AR4X - Best Tweeter Replacement

[kcbluesman]

I've searched here (and in other forums) regarding the best tweeter replacement for the AR-4x. Is the phenolic still the best option? I seem to recall having seen a thread some months back mentioning a different "drop-in" option, but can't find that thread now. Thank you.

[Carlspeak]

The PRT from Parts Express, not Midwest Speaker.

[kcbluesman]

I assume it would be most appropriate to use the 4 ohm version? Are any changes to the crossover required/recommended? I've seen various specifications of the crossover point, ranging from 1kHz ti 1.6kHz. These are below the specified range of the Parts Express tweeters. But they still sound good?

Thank you very much for any additional help or guidance you can provide.

[RoyC]

Carl discusses the tweeter relative to the AR-4x here:

http://www.classicspeakerpages.net/IP.Board/index.php?showtopic=7561

I have not tried the crossover mods Carl posted in the thread, but they are worth looking into. There are people who seem to like it as is, but (subjectively) I found it to produce a rather harsh upper midrange response. Imo, the 8 ohm version is preferrable to the 4 ohm version.

Roy

[ra.ra]

I happen to highly regard the PRT tweeter when I've experienced it as an original driver in speaker models from other manufacturers (i.e. Rectilinear), and I certainly trust and enjoy reading Carl's tests and analyses on a variety of issues. But if you accept the fact that once you replace original tweeters with non-original drivers and therefore no longer have an authentic AR-4x speaker, I'd like to toss out this other alternative merely as food for thought.

Not very costly or difficult to obtain and also a fully drop-in replacement, so I'd suggest you might want to give consideration to using a pair of AR-2ax mid-range drivers (same as AR-4 tweeter) and essentially create a pair of AR-4's. A simple change of cap value (change from 20uf in the 4x to a 6uf for the AR-4) is basically the only other component required.

I happen to love the sound of the AR-4's - - - they may not exhibit the uppermost high frequency sparkle of some later tweeters, particularly the 1-1/4" tweet from the AR-4xa, but they really do excel with a very full middle range that suits much of the music material that I often enjoy - - female vocals, acoustic strings, and jazz.

[RoyC]

I happen to highly regard the PRT tweeter when I've experienced it as an original driver in speaker models from other manufacturers (i.e. Rectilinear), and I certainly trust and enjoy reading Carl's tests and analyses on a variety of issues. But if you accept the fact that once you replace original tweeters with non-original drivers and therefore no longer have an authentic AR-4x speaker, I'd like to toss out this other alternative merely as food for thought.

Not very costly or difficult to obtain and also a fully drop-in replacement, so I'd suggest you might want to give consideration to using a pair of AR-2ax mid-range drivers (same as AR-4 tweeter) and essentially create a pair of AR-4's. A simple change of cap value (change from 20uf in the 4x to a 6uf for the AR-4) is basically the only other component required.

I happen to love the sound of the AR-4's - - - they may not exhibit the uppermost high frequency sparkle of some later tweeters, particularly the 1-1/4" tweet from the AR-4xa, but they really do excel with a very full middle range that suits much of the music material that I often enjoy - - female vocals, acoustic strings, and jazz.

Interesting suggestion, ra ra. I would try that before plopping in any of the modern replacement PRT tweeters.

In reference to speakers designed around PRT tweeters, I agree there are some excellent ones. Bear in mind, as with all modern replacement drivers, new PRT tweeters are not likely to have precisely the same sonic characteristics as originals. The primary advantage of the replacements sold by PE and others is that they fit the hole.

Roy

[DavidDru]

What is the issue with the original.

Sorry if I missed it somewhere along the way?