|
AudioTechnology is one of the world's most highly regarded manufacturers of
ultimate quality drivers. Its Flex Units series is designed by Ejvind Skaaning, a
founder of both Scan-Speak and Dynaudio. Flex Units are notable for all using
some of the best motors in the business - comparable to the best that
Lambda, TC Sounds, or Scan-Speak have to offer. The Xmax-to-Xsus ratio is typically
2.5:1 of greater. Audio Technology is perhaps the ultimate specialty woofer vendor,
offering a limited range of standard drivers, although they do offer an almost
unlimited range drivers built to order.
Recently, Audio Technology has introduced their new C-Quenze line of drivers.
Apparently designed for autosound use, C-Quenze construction is described as
similar to that of the Flex Units, but using a less expensive frame and new cone
technology which allows them to extend the top end another half octave. I haven't
seen any of these in the normal distribution channels yet, though, only at some
high-end European autosound dealers.
At the time this is written, I have only received recommendations for the Flex
Units for home hi-fi use, however I expect that the C-Quenze line will eventually
find its way into home use. When it does, and given Audio Technology's reputation,
I expect I will receive recommendations for C-Quenze drivers for home use as well.
Note that the following list includes the entire standard Flex Unit line.
- The 4H521306 is a 4" driver
using an underhung motor suitable for both mid/bass and midrange duty. The FR
is +/-2 dB from 100-5k Hz. One of my respondents wrote. "The Audio
Technology 4" is absolutely outstanding, in every way. It does require the
best associated crossover components. No evil habits, very transparent,
clean, musical, timbral accuracy extraordinary, excellent dynamics, stays
alive at low levels, worth every penny. Easy to crossover also. Does not
have the high end peak that the
[Madisound/Skaaning] SK130-308 does."
view
response
- The 5H521506 is a 5" driver
suitable for both mid/bass and midrange duty. The FR is +/-3 dB from
100-4k Hz.
view
response
- The 6H521706 is a 6" driver
suitable for both mid/bass and midrange duty. The FR is +/-2 dB from
90-4k Hz.
view
response
- The 8I522008 is an 8" woofer
with smooth FR up to 2 kHz. Modeling suggests that it would work well in
a TL enclosure.
view
response
- The 10A772510 is a 10" woofer
with smooth FR up to 1 kHz. Modeling suggests that it would work well in
a TL enclosure.
view
response
- The 12B772510 is a 12" woofer
with smooth FR up to 1.5 kHz. Modeling suggests that it should maintain
extremely high output into the 30's using a vented or PR enclosure. In a TL
enclosure, it should reach the high-20's.
view
response
- The 15E1022510 is a 15" woofer
with smooth FR up to 300 Hz. Modeling suggests that it should maintain
extremely high output into the 30's using a vented or PR enclosure. In a TL
enclosure, it should reach the high-20's.
view
response
All Flex Units are among the most expensive drivers of their respective sizes on the
market. The curves and numbers on all units are exceptional. Everyone who's ever
seen and heard one agrees that they're magnificent in both design, craftsmanship,
and audio quality. Certainly, the exceptional impedance curves reflect their
extremely sophisticated and costly motor designs, which are capable of
exceptionally low distortion. However, whether they're sufficiently wonderful to
justify the price may be subject to debate, depending on your circumstances.
Perhaps it will help if you consider them as instruments or works of art rather
than drivers…
|
.
