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Ok, so what does Phase Inversion actually do??

Ok, I know it inverts the signal 180 degrees, but what does that do? Where does the signal get interpreted so that it 'changes' the sound...at my ear?

I just went from a Lexicon DC1 to a Sonic Frontiers Line 1, and love the Line 1. I think although the Lexicon played analytically correct, I think the Line 1 plays more true to life. I noticed on my Bee Gees DVD that they sounded very distinct yet harmonized so well. Something I never noticed with my Lexicon. I think Phase Inversion gave the sound more depth and enhanced the upper low frequencies, which may very well have to do with my room interaction.

So what is Phase Inversion??
mdomnick
twl
3,251 posts
 
I have always been under the impression that if you have a phase-inverting preamp, you should correct the phase, either in the IC's or the speaker leads to ensure proper phasing at the output. If you do not do this, the initial impulse of the driver will be to "pull-in" instead of "push-out" when presented with the signal. This has the effect of blunting transient response and dynamic attack. It may soften things, but I can't imagine that it would be percieved as an improvement.
rec
328 posts
 
I have Jeff Rowland equipment and they use a different pin configuration in their balance settings than standard that can cause the phase to be inverted. Speaking with Jeff Rowlands they stated that about half of all the recordings are out of phase anyway and if your preamp has the ability to invert phase you can try it and see what sounds the best to you or change the speaker connections. In my experience I have only heard very subtle if any changes at all.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
Pardon to continue asking question: Can phase inversion cancel bass freequencies if you use mono woofer?
mdomnick OP
332 posts
 
I will certainly check the archives, and continue to test. The differences I have heard are definitly subtle to none, but there is something I like about the Phase Inversion with the certain cds. I am anxious to read more...thanks.

m-

after reading the archives I wish I had never asked the question;) Like all things in this dam hobby, listen and set the dial to what you like. I am surprised to hear that studios can and do screw up a recording in so many different ways.

oh well. Thanks again all.
unsound
7,315 posts
 
Unless the origianl recording was completely (some parts may be in and others out) in or out of phase it may be quite difficult to distinguish. Audiophile solo recordings are most likely (not guaranteed) to demonstrate the difference. If you were to whistle by blowing and then by sucking (no comments from the peanut gallery, please!) you would hear the equivalent first hand.
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