Efficiency question

[tomahack]

Is it possible to go higher than 112dB/watt since it correspond to an efficiency of 100%? If so, how is it possible?

Thanks.

[simon5]

Maybe it's possible if the coupling medium ain't air. Other than that, I think it's impossible.

[tomahack]

Many compression drivers go beyond 112dB/watt. Just looking for a mathematical explanation.

[Tom Danley]

Yes, at least it can appear to be greater than 100%.
Consider that speaker, particularly a horn can also confine the radiated energy into a space smaller than full spherical.
This is referred to the Di or horn Q, for example a horn with a Q of 10, has 10dB of gain over an omnidirectional point source.
Best,
Tom Danley

[tomahack]

How about an array of say 36 drivers each 100dB/watt in series ( 6) // ( 6) configuration. Net acoustic gain should be 15db. In practice, is 115dB possible in half space with 1 watt?

[Cal Weldon]

Quote:

Many compression drivers go beyond 112dB/watt

Originally posted by Tom Danley
Consider that speaker, particularly a horn can also confine the radiated energy into a space smaller than full spherical.

Compression drivers are rated when mounted on a horn.