Danny is one of the only people I've ever seen describe the phase relationship issue between drivers so clearly. This concept seem to elude a lot of engineers, which is clear by seeing his pre-mod measurements. So often I go to audio shows and many speakers have a weird hollow indistinct sound that is clearly phase issues going on in the midrange, robbing the music of transient clarity. While I have no firsthand experience with Danny's work, I really like what he's saying, and the way he explains things. I've built many of my own speakers, but without good measurement equipment, I'm using trial & error to get to a sound that I like. I just do it for fun (and frustration).
Fascinated By GR Research Channel
Lately I've watched a number of the videos on GR Research's youtube channel and been very intrigued. If you aren't familiar with them, they design and sell some speakers, but most of their business is DIY speaker kits, and doing upgrades on customer's speakers. In the videos, they show how they measure the performance characteristics of speakers sent in and then explain the thought process and methodology of choosing improvements.
If nothing else, anyone wanting to better understand the technical section of reviews (e.g. John Atkinson's in Stereophile), would likely learn something watching.
Another interesting aspect of these videos is the clear untangling of various manufacturers' choices in balancing cost for performance and the sonic impact of various compromises.
Get your popcorn and check it out.
I'm also curious to hear of your experiences with any of their kits or products and if your findings match their messaging. I've always understood that better parts quality will improve sonics, but this channel demonstrates exactly how with great clarity...fascinating! Cheers,
Spencer