High-Performance Architectural Loudspeakers
planar technology
DPC™ Technology
Figure 1.
Figure 2
Our innovative DPC™ (Dispersion Pattern Control) technology in the Radia R-18i provides an unprecedented level of freedom in choosing and optimizing the dispersion pattern for surround sound presentation. It also provides important flexibility in the loudspeaker’s mounting location.
The R-18i utilizes BG’s patented PDR wide band driver that operates as a dipole transducer. A dipole is a driver with a very shallow profile that radiates sound to its front and back with little to no energy to the sides.THX™, the motion picture industry standard for sound, specifies a system’s rear surround sound loudspeakers to have a dispersion pattern that delivers a diffuse sound with very little direct sound. Such systems create a feeling of ambience, enveloping the room and the listener. Ideally, such loudspeakers would have a dispersion pattern of a dipole element.
To get the optimum set up for THX™ movie sound, a dipole surround loudspeaker should be aimed at the listener with its side or null axis. This is where direct sound is minimal while most of the sound is projected away from the listener. Figure 1 shows a sample diagram of such installation with Radia R-18i loudspeakers.
Sound is reflected from the walls and the listener hears reflected or diffuse sound from the loudspeakers. Many movie sound tracks are recorded assuming that listeners will be using a dipole loudspeaker with diffuse sound. Many multi-channel music recordings use surround sound loudspeakers that provide direct sound. Figure 2 illustrates an option the listener may use for direct radiating surround sound loudspeakers. Feel free to experiment and chose the sound you prefer!
The DPC™ feature of the Radia R-18i loudspeaker can readily provide either type of surround sound (Direct or Diffuse) depending on the application, the system’s layout and/or personal preference. Turn the DPC™ knob to adjust the direction of the sound.