the ideal crossover point for a two way?

[audiothings]

This is a sequel to my question about obtaining 20 Hz - 20 KHz from a two way design...

If you are starting with a clean slate and you can pick your two way speaker complement based on the most non intrusive crossover point, what would that point be? This is a more general question... I am very well aware that multiple priorities will intervene before a suitable compromise is established.

For example, a TD15H + Manger/JXR6 HD/B&G RD-75 can be crossed over < 400 Hz, but this bothers me as I know that this frequency range is bang in the center of fundamental tones.

I am more comfortable with a large driver handling fundamental frequencies (20 Hz - 800+Hz) as I have experienced this sound and appreciate the scale and authority it demonstrates, even at the lowest volume. However, I have not heard the alternative...

And then there is the full range + super tweeter option like the Hammer Dynamics/Zu Audio offerings...

So here is the question again... If you could pick a crossover point and design your two way speakers around it, what would it be?

I am interested in a general discussion, but all this research is going towards finding the ultimate driver combination for a two way / 20 Hz - 20 KHz / 105 dB average - 115 dB peaks capable system.

[Bill poster]

400 hz is far better than 2khz, ie most 2 way crossover points

[Jay]

Originally Posted by audiothings

So here is the question again... If you could pick a crossover point and design your two way speakers around it, what would it be?

I think there will be no correct answer to that question.

You can define the less obstructive crossover point then go find the most suitable drivers for that crossover point, or you can be flexible with the crossover point and find the "suitable" drivers first. At the end, you have to compare to find out which one is your best.

Imo, the later is the most logical way to go because choosing the drivers itself is already difficult with your criteria. And, about crossing at the critical point, yes, it will be a problem if the crossover is of no good quality. But if you do it carefully and try your best, I can see big chance to survive.

You have to prepare for yourself some alternatives. For example, alternative 1 will use this driver and this driver with possible crossover point from this to this, alternative 2 will use that driver and that driver with possible crossover point from that to that. Then anyone who has experience with those drivers may chim in and give their opinion about the best way to handle the drivers.

[tinitus]

Originally Posted by audiothings

but this bothers me as I know that this frequency range is bang in the center of fundamental tones.

you can cross anywhere you like

there is no universal ideal xo point

you main issue is the two very different drivers
that is your problem

but do you really need 20hz
maybe you should use a lighter coned woofer with shorter Xmax
and maybe forget about playing loud

[planet10]

150-350 Hz.

dave

[ashok]

If you really want it to go very low and have a low cross-over point for the mid band driver , you will have to make it a 3 way ! That makes the mid driver smaller and that might be a good thing !

Driver mix is never an easy thing to do though you could go for successful combinations that have already worked. Could vary from person to person.
Cheers.

[TerryO]

Originally Posted by planet10

150-350 Hz.

dave

Hi Dave,

I completely agree and lower the better.

Best Regards,
Terry

[TerryO]

Here's one I did last year.
It's -3 dB at 33 Hz and 18kHZ crossed over at 450 Hz. I would have liked it lower, but it just worked out better at 450.



Best Regards,
TerryO

[audiothings]

TerryO that is a very neat build! What kind of SPL does it deliver, and what is the sensitivity of the system?

[ashok]

Originally Posted by TerryO

Here's one I did last year.

Best Regards,
TerryO

Very nice. How were the drivers connected ? Any crossover details possible ?
Cheers.