Slightly different crossover configuration affects the result,why?

[The golden mean]

According to a recent review of the Audio Physic Cardeas in the German magazine Stereoplay (Stereoplay 12/2009), a slightly altered configuration of the crossover typology makes audible differences to the sounding result.

Here is the "new typology".

- C1 __________\__/__________ C2 + where C1 & C 2 have the

same capacitance and in addition they have the double value compared
to a single cap approach-


- L1 ___________\__/__________ L2 + were L1 & L2 have half the inductance of a single inductor.




\__/ are drivers

The magazine was offered two pairs of compact speakers from Audio Physics with and without the "new" configuration and they claim a significant difference in the sound quality. Most noticeable is a more stable imaging in the "new" one. Is there any explanation or is it possible "fake"?

[Iain McNeill]

So they split a single L/C in one arm of the driver to a pair of L/C's balanced in both arms of the driver circuit Keeping the total value of L and C the same?

For one, the effective series resistance (ESR) could be different which, if significant enough, could make a small sound difference. But it seems like a way to justify more price to me.

[The golden mean]

Yes, your interpretation is right. It´s rather easy for us DIY´s to check out if we can hear a difference by doing in the way described. But I have not tried it yet.

[rcw]

It is a relief to find that that type of nonsense is not just restricted to the audio publications in the English speaking world, the Germans also have snake oil pervayer's, who would have thought?
rcw

[pheonix358]

I find it interesting. I will have to give it some thought. Differences in back EMF come to mind. Thinking time is required. ZZZZZZZZZZZen

[lousymusician]

I've seen the split capacitor configuration with the addition of a battery to bias the junction of the two caps away from zero. JBL has used that in some of their top-end rigs. Probably of most benefit for large values where two big NPE's are much cheaper than one film cap half the size.