tradeoffs in small vs. large drivers

[jdybnis]

What are people's general opinions on using fewer large drivers vs. several smaller drivers to achive a given Sd.

two 18's vs. three 15's vs. four 12's

Cost is of course a factor, but all else being equal which do you prefer?

[rcavictim]

I think the LP filter ceiling frequency is an important determining factor in the choice. Four 12" drivers will react faster to transients at 100-150 Hz than two 18's. The type of enclosure used is also an important factor in the decision. The enclosure choice will be largely determined by the application (home theater, home stereo, pro-sound reinforcement). Nothing in engineering is simple, it is all about balancing compromises.

[OMNIFEX]

Well Dude,

If cost is a factor, I would worry about how I could properly power more speakers firstly.

What about cabinet size to achieve the right frequencies?

Are you into Sound Reinforcement?

Three 15's is a weird combination for PA...........


I think you need to go back to the drawing board, since
you are on a tight budget.

Two good 18's are going to cost you around $300.00+ each

Three good 15's will cost around $250.00+ each.

Twelves......... Can't say I used many of those,
so I'll say around $150.00+ each.

Also, you gotta take in account the xmax. I mean, you can't
compare any of them without that dude.

What are you using these for again

What about amps? How much power you got to feed these puppies.

Rock On !

[jdybnis]

The question is more theoretical. For my small room 2 long throw 12's in sealed enclosures is more than pleanty.

I'm curious why manufacturers offer 12", 15", and sometimes 18" drivers with the exact same motor.

[planet10]

I'd rather use 2 smaller drivers than a single larger driver... ie 2 10s instead of 1 12... this is so i can load them push-push. A smaller driver -- in general -- will also reach higher, making the XO to the main speakers easier to integrate. You usually give up some extension on the bottom in compromise.

dave

[paulspencer]

Bigger drivers usually have more bang for buck if you don't mind the larger enclosure. eg. The Adire Tempest is only slightly more expensive than Shiva but it has 2.5L of VD vs 1.5L for the Shiva. The reason they use the same motor - I think it would be due to cost. Cheaper to design and manufacture. Considering the motor is the same for a 12" and 15", the 15" driver would move more air while the most expensive part (motor) remains the same.

[Ron E]

Originally posted by jdybnis
I'm curious why manufacturers offer 12", 15", and sometimes 18" drivers with the exact same motor.

Engineering is about performance for acceptable cost. IF you only need to stock or make one coil or magnet assembly, it will be much cheaper to make them.....