---------------------------------------------------------- XDP4000X-List Digest Archive --- Total Messages Posted Thu 02/05/04: 1 ---------------------------------------------------------- Today's Message Index: ---------------------- 1. 03:55 PM - Thoughts on Planar Drivers in near feild automobile use...? (Randy Visentine) ________________________________ Message 1 _____________________________________ Time: 03:55:50 PM PST US From: Randy Visentine Subject: XDP4000X-List: Thoughts on Planar Drivers in near feild automobile use...? --> XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine I am looking for a small (and low profile) yet versatile driver for use as a mid (or even a mid/tweet) for my front stage for A-Pillar mounting. I came across the "Bohlender Graebner" brand of Planar drivers in the Parts Express magazine. They are simular to ribbons in size, but appear to be much more durible. I see the "Neo8-PDR" Planar transducer with a dimension of approx 8" x 2.5" x .5" deep. It has a frequency range of (useable) 500Hz - 20KHz (A true mid-tweeter). A 4 Ohm impedance and 40W RMS/120W Music power handling with 92.5dB SPL @ 1Meter! Seems too good to be true from a 1/2" deep driver that would fit nicely on an A-Pillar. Does anyone have experience with these or any simular Planar drivers in near-feild charachter (like 1 to 2 feet away)? They state very uniform coverage, and the wide frequency range would allow me to run subs to 78Hz, 8" Vifa mid-bass in the doors from 78 - 500Hz, and the Planar drivers in the a-pillars from 500Hz up. This seems to be a good option, but I am scared they might not be a good near feild type driver (too harsh, or bad dispersion). If this does not pan out, I will likely go with some Tang-Band 2" or 3" mid drivers (A Pair in each A-Pillar) and run some Vifa Dual Concentric or Scan Speak Ring Radiators for the treble. I really want to get my midrange to chest level, but I don't want a 6.5" pod on my a-pillar! I am willing to compromise a 500Hz crossover from the doors to the A-Pillars, and this seems to be the ticket. The Planar drivers are only $63 each from Parts Express, so it is a bargain to boot! I eagerly await any input on Planar Drivers... PS - For comparison I am running MB Quart PSC216 Bi-Amped on a Sony XM-7547 and I am happy with them, but I want to get a bit more "air" and transient detail, and also raise my entire soundstage up to chest level. Thanks to Matt for keeping this forum up and running even though the XDP-4K is long out of production ;) ! Randy V Audiophile/Musician/Crazy Guy __________________________________ http://taxes.yahoo.com/filing.html