Heres a weird Idea

[darrin_h2000]

...If you can reverse bias a 6" woofer and make a subkick with it...Can you do the same with ribbon tweeters and use them as overheads?

 

[Big Kenny]

Dawg, you need a hobby.....

 

[theCKWilliams]

i think dude found one...

 

[RawDepth]

...If you can reverse bias a 6" woofer and make a subkick with it...Can you do the same with ribbon tweeters and use them as overheads?

I am guessing yes, the transducer motor is similar, but you would likely have to add a transformer to correct the impedance to satisfy the preamp input.

You see, the output of a power amp generally averages at high voltages - low impedance. However, the input of a micpre is tuned for low voltage - high impedance. Quite the opposite.

Try it and see. It won't hurt anything. I'll bet it will record at a ridiculously low volume level and very noisy.

 

[darrin_h2000]

Do you have an example of the correct transformer to make this work?

 

[mshilarious]

Do you have an example of the correct transformer to make this work?

Probably have to be a custom-wound job. Ribbon tweeters are I believe thicker material than mics, which means lower output and lower resistance. So you have to extra-especially watch the DCR of the transformer primary to minimize noise.

I think this is a question for Marik, but I haven't see him around lately . . .

 

[RawDepth]

Do you have an example of the correct transformer to make this work?

I have no idea. I have never had or seen a ribbon tweeter before.

However, the more I think about it, the more I believe that it must be very similar to a ribbon mic. Depending on the thickness of the ribbon of course, the voltage and impedance may very well be similar to a ribbon mic. Or at least close enough to work half-assed.

Here is a tranny that can be used in a ribbon mic. http://edcorusa.com/products/ShowProduct.aspx?ID=355
You simply place it between the ribbon assembly and the preamp. Connect the two leads to the ribbon output, and the three leads to the XLR plug leading to the pre considering proper polarity, (the third lead is a ground.)

But don't blame me if it does not work too good. Because I am only guessing here.