Test Bench: B&C Speakers’ DE640-16 Compression Driver

The B&C Speakers DE640-16 Compression Driver is a 1.4" exit design, which along with the recent DCM414 midrange and the DE360 models represent a line of two-point suspension ring radiator type compression diaphragms. The DE640-16 features a 65mm (2.6") Polymer diaphragm and neodymium ring magnet and is specified for a recommended crossover frequency around 1kHz, and a 140W continuous power rating. For this Test Bench, the DE640-16 was matched with the Eighteen Sound XT1464 elliptical flare horn.

Confronted with the impossibility to conduct reliable measurements in the low-frequency domain for his DIY speaker project, George Ntanavaras explores the alternative of relying solely on simulation software. To validate the design of an open-baffle subwoofer using the AKABAK software, created by German company R&D Team, he also explores the transition from measurements to simulation. His experiments contrast the near-field response measurements of his loudspeaker with the accuracy of the simulation using AKABAK.

Ask audio industry insiders and audiophiles alike about Joachim Gerhard, and chances are that they mention the many high performance speakers he designed over the years, initially for Audio Physic, currently for Suesskind Audio. But Gerhard also has a great track record designing phono preamps. This interview explores that aspect of Joachim’s career. In the first part of this interview Joachim discusses the design considerations and circuit topologies for low noise phono stages, culminating in his very low noise and Flexible Phono Stage (FPS) design. This article was originally published in audioXpress, September 2024.

As mobile devices embrace USB-C, the options for audio measurements expand significantly, making it more reliable, universal and convenient. The Dayton Audio iMM-6C offers a calibrated condenser measurement microphone for Apple and Android tablets and smartphones at an unbelievable low price. This article was originally published in audioXpress, September 2024.

In this issue of Voice Coil, Vance Dickason continues his exploration of Outboard DSP systems with a review of the Marani Pro MIR4801 Audio System Processor. And Claus Futtrup explores the concept of a transitional alignment between B4 and LR4. Next, Mike Klasco writes about new materials for cabinets and enclosures. On Test Bench Vance Dickason characterizes the new B&C Speakers DE640-16 1.4" compression driver and the latest Satori MR13TX-4 5" TPCD TeXtreme midrange from SB Acoustics.

There's a lot of knowledge in audioXpress September 2024. There's a residential installation and home theater Market Update, and a review of the Dayton Audio iMM-6C USB-C Test Microphone. George Ntanavaras shares what he learned using AKABAK simulation software, and Charlie Laub explains all about Derived from Elliptic crossover filters. Read Jan Didden's interview with Joachim Gerhard discussing Low Noise Phono Stages, and learn how to build a Moving-Coil Phono Preamp designed by Sam Dulaney. And much more.