@chorus , mass and surface area are minor issues in comparison to this. True ribbons are like ESLs, a force over area drive system. Every molecule of the ribbon is controlled by the electrical signal. Dynamic speakers use a voice coil to drive a diaphragm. The diaphragm is expected to follow the movement of the voice coil perfectly. It is not controlled directly by the signal. It adds an uncontrolled resonating mass to the drive. The end result is significantly more distortion. By making a long ribbon ala Magnepan you can form a line source which is very difficult to do with dynamic drivers. Many have tried and failed. Line source speakers have significant advantages over point source speakers. There is one problem with ribbons. They can be rather fragile.
Which Tweeter preferred- dome natural material, Beryllium/Metal or Planar Ribbon? Why?
This is bugging me. Just as I think I have the
right answer it slips through my fingers.
Let's not consider cost in this opinion poll.
For example-
Pick one of the types of tweeters
Choice- Planar Ribbon
Reason-Low moving mass and larger surface area vs domes.
Everyone should have an opinion here unless they are relatively new to the game.
Lets see if we all learn something new!