Bass Driver Size - how much better is an extra inch?


Have older b&w speakers and bass drivers are 7 inches vs 804 d3 speakers that are 6 1/2.

the larger drivers seem to really open the sound stage, more open and less constrained.  Imaging of older speakers not as good but a very enjoyable listen.
Not sure why driver sizes tend to be smaller these days unless you pay a lot more.  Hear that most consumers want more compact mains so drivers are smaller.  Kinda sad.
emergingsoul

Showing 1 response by audiokinesis

Emergingsoul wrote: 

"Have older b&w speakers and bass drivers are 7 inches vs 804 d3 speakers that are 6 1/2.  The larger drivers seem to really open the sound stage, more open and less constrained.  Imaging of older speakers not as good but a very enjoyable listen." 

Imo the difference between 6.5" diameter and 7" diameter drivers is inconsequential. 

I think you are SEEING a cone size difference and HEARING a sonic difference, assuming that the one is the cause of the other. 

My guess is that there are other factors involved which are not readily apparent, but which have a greater effect than the small difference in cone diameter. 
 
Duke