multiple vertical Newform lines

[cyclecamper]

For many years I've been using 2 of the long Newform ribbons (actually narrow planar dynamics) stacked vertically as a floor to ceiling line source (one stack on each side for stereo). ...with additional cone type vertical line arrays alongside for mid-bass and then isobaric subs.

But...I have some more of the ribbons and I've been thinking about adding a second vertical line source close alongside the original, with a low-pass crossover on the supplemental line alongside...just to reduce excursion and distortion in the mids especially at rather extreme volume levels.

Listening to sine waves (a peculiar enough pastime) it seems the ribbons put out a lot more harmonic content the harder they're driven (unless that's my ears), and once I've gone floor-to-ceiling, alongside seems the only available arrangement.

Any ideas or advice?

 

[cyclecamper]

I've been using a Rane adjustable active crossover and EQs on each output, with balanced lines to the power amps which are located at the speakers. I can play with the crossover frequency from my seated listening position. But for this low-pass on the "assist" ribbons I might just use passive components, though I have plenty of power amp channels available. That would keep the entire system stereo active triamped.

 

[sfdoddsy]

Personally, I'd try them joined to the original line so they appear as one line source, with same crossover. You'll still get some cancellation, but not as much as if they were apart.

And try crossing over higher. It sounds like they are distorting.

Just for fun, you could try strapping them to the back and running them as dipoles.