Posted by FredT [ 24.175.116.95 ] on May 07, 2005 at 19:48:17:

In Reply to: Array vs Horn posted by JPH on May 07, 2005 at 14:25:50:

You really do need to listen to one good example of each for yourself. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. I prefer arrays to horns for several reasons: 1) they throw an enormous soundstage, 2) they can handle great amounts of power and will play very loud with highly dynamic music, 3) with each driver making only small excursions they display less excursion related distortion, and 4) They can be really good at the frequency extremes where single driver speakers often are not. But there are tradeoffs: 1) Arrays are expensive if you use high quality drivers, 2) single driver speakers usually offer a more coherent image, and 3)single driver speakers are often happier with lower power amps than line arrays. An array may be rated as having 95dB efficiency, but if it has a complex crossover it may not work as well with SET amps. They tend to like lots of current.

You mentioned big awesome sound. I have heard some single driver speakers play loudly and coherently, but I don't think of thier sound as big and awesome. Conversely, when I heard the Alpha LS speakers playing a large scale symphonic piece with the volume cranked way up I could feel their power. That's big and awesome.

Of course others may believe differently and their opinions are just as valid as mine. That's why you should listen for yourself. The way to do that is to post a message asking if anyone in your geographic area has a pair of single drivers, ditto for line arrays, and that you would like to hear them.

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