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From: shop@uwmcsd1.UUCP (Electronics Shop)
Newsgroups: net.audio
Subject: Re: ribbon vs. electro statics
Message-ID: <355@uwmcsd1.UUCP>
Date: Thu, 1-Aug-85 09:01:09 EDT
Article-I.D.: uwmcsd1.355
Posted: Thu Aug  1 09:01:09 1985
Date-Received: Sat, 3-Aug-85 09:41:55 EDT
References: <42400009@hpfclo.UUCP> <351@uwmcsd1.UUCP> <1069@teddy.UUCP>
Organization: U of Wi-Milwaukee, Computer Services Div
Lines: 31

> > Some disadvantages of 'staics are the low impedance,
> >sometimes as low as two ohms -- need an arc welder to drive them sometimes.
> >Another is the high cost -- my Koss ESP-10 headphones retailed for $350, 
> >and Quads can cost up to $2K or more. If you have a limited budget,
> >ribbons can be bought to upgrade your existing speakers, or if you
> >have bucks and an amp that can power New York City, electrostatics 
> >can be the best investment you ever made.
> >
> >Thomas Krueger
> 
> This is simply not so. What is required for driving electrostatics is
> an amplifier that can handle highly reactive loads without instability
> problems. The only thing you might need high power for is to overcome
> an inefficient transducer. This is not a function of impedance. 

I seemed to have made an error.... I meant that high current output
was needed for some electrostatics such as older Accoustats. Not many
amps can put out that kind of current. I will agree that maximum
stability is very desirable. Accoustat's Trans-Nova MOSFET amps
have a zero (or claim to, anyway) output impedance. If I recall
the load impedance should be the same (ideal condition) or higher
than the source impedance to minimize problems. Sorry for inadvertant
foulups.

Thomas Krueger

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