@glai This is potentially a huge issue. Yes, MANY designs do this and some argue that it's because the result is potentially better measurements which in turn look better in magazine reviews, and result in higher sales. Others would say that the most common configuration, midrange reversed from tweeter and woofer in a 3way, results in increased air & ambience.
I am in the camp that thinks it's great to test it both ways and trust your ears. More often than not, I prefer the sound with all drivers in polarity. Of course, this is easier to test on some speakers more than others. For example, the Nolas and Alons that I've owned included tri-wiring so it was simple to just swap leads for the reversed driver. Doing so on a pair of 5 ways with internal crossover is a huge PITA!
A good friend of mine and audio tech carries a "Cricket" polarity tester with test CD everywhere he goes. I've seen him shock & delight over a dozen system owners by getting their drivers in polarity.
@brf makes a good point too. QA needs to be held to a higher standard. Cheers,
Spencer
I am in the camp that thinks it's great to test it both ways and trust your ears. More often than not, I prefer the sound with all drivers in polarity. Of course, this is easier to test on some speakers more than others. For example, the Nolas and Alons that I've owned included tri-wiring so it was simple to just swap leads for the reversed driver. Doing so on a pair of 5 ways with internal crossover is a huge PITA!
A good friend of mine and audio tech carries a "Cricket" polarity tester with test CD everywhere he goes. I've seen him shock & delight over a dozen system owners by getting their drivers in polarity.
@brf makes a good point too. QA needs to be held to a higher standard. Cheers,
Spencer