Dahlquist DQ-12 loudspeaker Measurements Redux

Sidebar 3: Measurements Redux

Since the new DQ-12s sounded clearly better balanced than the old, we decided to rerun a few of the measurements. It's quite clear from fig.1 that the high-frequency response of the newer samples is far better controlled than that of the old, though the current versions bear no "i" designation. Note the drooping response centered below 500Hz; this may relate to the reduction in body of instrumental timbres noted in the listening sessions.

Fig.1 Dahlquist DQ-12, response averaged across 30° horizontal window centered on HF axis of original sample (blue) and new sample (red).

I had, in the course of my listening sessions, experimented with less than a fully toed-in configuration—most of the listening was done with the loudspeakers aimed at the listening position. With the DQ-12s turned outward a bit toward a forward-facing position, the subjective impression was of a brighter, harder sound, though one with perhaps a shade less top-octave energy (and somewhat less soundstage focus). I tried adjusting the toe-in twice with similar results; the fully toed-in position was finally judged, in my circumstances, to be the best. The off-axis curves of the Dahlquist, however (not shown), were, if anything, slightly smoother than the composite 30° window shown, and did not explain this observation.—Thomas J. Norton

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