I have been a sceptic about bi-wire hookup, except for the fact that you probably end up with more copper (lower resistance). I have never heard any technical explanation of why bi-wire is better...just the usual "trust me it sounds better".
However, although it may not be original, I have one explanation that has come to mind. On the Hot side of the amplifier output the high and the low frequency drivers are iusolated from each other by the capacitors and inductors of their respective crossover networks. The returns from the two drivers, on the other hand, are tied together, and isolated (just a little) from the neutral output of the amplifier by the inductance of the speaker cable. So the high frequency driver sees "tailings" of the low frequency signal, and vica versa. This theory would predict that the benefits (if any) of bi-wire would be realized if you only doubled up on the return wire.
What do you think? Anyone got a better idea? (And don't just tell me it sounds good!)
However, although it may not be original, I have one explanation that has come to mind. On the Hot side of the amplifier output the high and the low frequency drivers are iusolated from each other by the capacitors and inductors of their respective crossover networks. The returns from the two drivers, on the other hand, are tied together, and isolated (just a little) from the neutral output of the amplifier by the inductance of the speaker cable. So the high frequency driver sees "tailings" of the low frequency signal, and vica versa. This theory would predict that the benefits (if any) of bi-wire would be realized if you only doubled up on the return wire.
What do you think? Anyone got a better idea? (And don't just tell me it sounds good!)