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Is the 2.5 way speaker the ideal home speaker?

Time for what I hope is another fun thread. 

One type of speaker which is actually pretty common but which gets little press / attention here on audiogon is the 2.5 way. 

A 2.5 way speaker is almost a 3-way, but it isn't. It is a speaker with 3 drivers, but instead of a tweeter, midrange and woofer (TMW) it lacks a true midrange. The "midrange" is really a mid-woofer, that shares bass duties with the woofer. Often these two drivers are identical, though in the Focal Profile 918 the midwoofer and woofer were actually different drivers with the same nominal diameter (6"). 

The Monitor Audio 200 is a current example of the concept, but I am sure there are many others. It's also quite popular in kit form. One of the most high-end kits I know of is the Ophelia based on a ScanSpeak Be tweeter and 6" Revelator mid-woofers. I haven't heard them, but I am in eternal love with those mid-woofers. I believe the original plans come from the German speaker building magazine Klan Ton. 

However many other kits are also available

But regardless of kit, or store purchased, are you a 2.5 way fan? Why or why not? 

Best,


Erik 
erik_squires
erik_squires OP
16,901 posts
 
hi @astewart8944 !

Well, I think of 2.5 way as full-range. I meant, that for the slim form factor a 2.5 way can offer a lot of benefits compared to a more traditional 3-way with a large diameter woofer.

In all cases, the ability to use a separate amp with EQ and proper room tuning for the bass is absolutely magical, and (when properly set up) will always outperform a full-range speaker without them.

As an audiophile, I spent a lot (for me!) of cash on my DAC, and pre. I don’t want an EQ in most of my music, BUT, if I can run the EQ for the bass only, it’s heaven.


Best,

E
erik_squires OP
16,901 posts
 
@rlb61 

 thanks for the info. I really have learned a lot from your insights.

What a terribly kind thing to say, thank you. 

E
erik_squires OP
16,901 posts
 
HI @astewart8944 - Not sure if I was clear.

With the Pearls, I’d be tempted to run the bass units via your EQ and separate amps.

The trouble area is 16 to 60 Hz. In that range, dragons lurk. This is why smaller speakers may sound "faster" or "more musical" - They avoid the dangerous areas, and why a sub with good EQ can totally outperform them.

But since you are already happy with your perspectives and 2 subs - I'd suggest you stick with what you have. :) If you must upgrade, room acoustics are always a good place to work on. Contact GIK Acoustics for great advice. 

Best,

E
astewart8944
499 posts
 
We never "must" upgrade. : ) Frankly, the DEQX is present precisely to deal with room acoustical issues. I understand physical treatment is distinct from room correction, but my family room isn't going through any GIK Acoustics treatment that a designer doesn't approve...and she won't be approving any...ever. So we work with the tools we have.
FWIW I truly enjoy your posts; I learn stuff.
Thanks
Al
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,477 posts
 
Erik, my previous speakers were 2.5 ways (Paradigm Studio 60/2).   In reality it is two way design with extra speaker for the low frequencies.  My new 3 way speakers have much better bass - not by extension, but rather by very natural attack and decay of the bass notes.  Disadvantage of any 2 or 2.5 way design is "bending" at the higher midrange. 
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