Passive radiator


Were passive radiators an ultimate failure? Does any speaker company still use them? A friend of mine is asking about them in regard to vintage speakers, and all I remember is being unimpressed. But I don't want to tell him that without some back-up.
arnettpartners
Some of my favorite speakers over the years have used passive radiators, though they seem less common these days then back in say the 70's. Goldenear Aon3 is the current one I know of that I have heard and also thought to have top notch sound especially for the price. The combination of side facing passive radiator and folded ribbon tweeter makes these a quite unique design these days at a very affordable price worth auditioning. I've heard Tritons as well and was less impressed, but I suspect the problem was in the specific dealer setup I heard somewhere and not the speakers.
Arnettepartners-

my fave and reference speaker is the Thiel CS 2.4 or CS 2.7 models. This company still uses a passive radiator in all of its glory. For their particular designs, it works very well. Bass response and frequency range is simply, outstanding. For those whom have a listening space like, 20x20, 25x25 or 30x30...the CS 3.7 is a no-brainer.

Find a local dealer/retailer near you and get yourself a demo. It will perhaps change your view on the Passive radiator. Keep me posted & Happy listening.
My Def Tech Super Cube Reference sub uses two passive radiators in one box to outstanding effect.Tight and musical to the nines...