The original Linus array, which was developed three years ago as a proof of concept project (full disclosure free plans are available) by Rick Craig and me, runs a little more than your target price. The Linus 1 uses 12 woofers and with 6 planar tweeters per side. The woofers are the MCM Electronics #55-1855 at $281 per set of 24. The planar tweeter is available from three sources: Silver Flute YAG20-1 ($27.50 each from Madisound), Parts Express #275-085 ($24.80 each), or the Stryke Audio RTW2 (contact them for their current price as it is no longer shown on their website). While this array would run above your target price for drivers at regular pricing, the drivers are often sold as discount or deal of the day specials. The total cost at regular pricing is a bargain at well under $600 total driver cost, it likely can be had routinely in the $500-$550 range.

The Linus 1 design is a true near field array with few compromises. It features a 3 dB down point at 43 Hz (ported box) so many people will be more than content without a subwoofer.

For what it is worth the Linus 2 design that you built (uses an improved woofer and more tweeters than the Linus 1) runs $900 for drivers and crossover parts.

One of the criterion for the Linus 1 and Linus 2 designs was to develop designs that featured readily available drivers that would be on the market for future users. Hence, no clearance drivers or parts that would limit future usage. It is a shame that Bill's array is already obsolete (his drivers are discounted factory buyout models which are no longer available) a full six months before his article even goes to print.

Jim