I believe it's largely fashion.
Not everyone wants to, or is even able to accommodate speakers with huge 15 inch bass units like me.
Drive unit size is certainly a contentious subject with various arguments for and against large and small drivers.
It's certainly not a question of bass content either as some small units can dig lower than some larger ones. Depending upon factors such design (greater number of long throw units) and cabinet loading.
However there do seem to be differences, size does matter.
Permit me a gross generalisation if you will, but I'd say that smaller units sound noticeably quicker with transients.
On the other hand, larger units tend to have a far greater sense of ease as they go about their work.
The 15 inch Dual Concentrics on my Tannoys are easier on the ear than the slimline Revolution 3s that they replaced, if perhaps surprisingly a little lighter in the bass.
If I had to chose, and if I wanted a more relaxing sound, I'd take the second option.
Not everyone wants to, or is even able to accommodate speakers with huge 15 inch bass units like me.
Drive unit size is certainly a contentious subject with various arguments for and against large and small drivers.
It's certainly not a question of bass content either as some small units can dig lower than some larger ones. Depending upon factors such design (greater number of long throw units) and cabinet loading.
However there do seem to be differences, size does matter.
Permit me a gross generalisation if you will, but I'd say that smaller units sound noticeably quicker with transients.
On the other hand, larger units tend to have a far greater sense of ease as they go about their work.
The 15 inch Dual Concentrics on my Tannoys are easier on the ear than the slimline Revolution 3s that they replaced, if perhaps surprisingly a little lighter in the bass.
If I had to chose, and if I wanted a more relaxing sound, I'd take the second option.