For dynamic speakers, low mass materials (like paper) used to construct the cone (while maintaining rigidness) help with micro-dynamics and transients, which are the dynamics that matter at low volumes. This is because of simple physics: low mass = less inertia = driver more responsive to signal provided.
The Triangle Titus speakers in my second system are a great example of speakers reknowned for exceptional sound at lower volumes. Their fairly decent efficiency rating also helps them deliver with a wide variety of amps.
Walsh drivers work differently than conventional dynamic drivers but are capable of delivering similar results when properly amplified (they are lower efficiency in general however so not just any amp will do). Their sound is often described as electrostatic like but with better dynamics.
Damping factor (determined jointly by amp output and speaker input impedances) also play a role in delivering good transients and microdynamics at low volume. Good impedance matching between other interacting component pairs upstream is important also.
Old 78 records are an interesting source in regards to transients and microdynamics. Despite their limited dynamic range and frequency response overall compared to more modern media, their microdynamics and transient response can still make for a pleasantly involving and lively listen at modest volumes when done right. Try it sometime!
The Triangle Titus speakers in my second system are a great example of speakers reknowned for exceptional sound at lower volumes. Their fairly decent efficiency rating also helps them deliver with a wide variety of amps.
Walsh drivers work differently than conventional dynamic drivers but are capable of delivering similar results when properly amplified (they are lower efficiency in general however so not just any amp will do). Their sound is often described as electrostatic like but with better dynamics.
Damping factor (determined jointly by amp output and speaker input impedances) also play a role in delivering good transients and microdynamics at low volume. Good impedance matching between other interacting component pairs upstream is important also.
Old 78 records are an interesting source in regards to transients and microdynamics. Despite their limited dynamic range and frequency response overall compared to more modern media, their microdynamics and transient response can still make for a pleasantly involving and lively listen at modest volumes when done right. Try it sometime!