Specifications

Whilst the above response may look good on a plot, the response in the near-field is a bit

ragged and subjective experience dictates that a slight decrease in level with distance is

desirable. A system with, say, +4dB at the front smoothly decreasing to -4dB at the back

will sound more natural as long as background noise is not problematic.

The following progressive curvature array has a more natural coverage characteristic.

Smoother coverage from a progressive curvature array (including down-fills) –

DISPLAY™ simulation

Band-zoning

Air absorption can cause excess high frequency attenuation which can seriously limit far-

field performance unless compensation is used. Air absorption is most serious around

20% RH (relative humidity) – although the effect varies with temperature and

atmospheric pressure.

Mid and high frequency boost are applied to the upper sections of an array to compensate

for air losses. Again, a completely flat level and amplitude response will sound unnatural

in the far-field. As mentioned earlier, an acceptable overall level range is ±4dB. An

acceptable amplitude response is between flat and slightly pink (a falling response with

frequency by up to 0.8dB per octave).

For more information on band-zoning, see the information on System control or the

relevant W8L Longbow, W8LC or W8LM quick start section.