Glossary of Audio Terms

AC. Abbreviation for alternating current.

Active crossover. Uses active devices (transistors, ICs, tubes) and some form of power supply to operate.

Amplitude. The extreme range of a signal. Usually measured from the average to the extreme.

Arc. The visible sparks generated by an electrical discharge.

Bass. The lowest frequencies of sound.

Bi-Amplification. Uses an electronic crossover, or line-level passive crossover, and separate power amplifiers for the high and low frequency loudspeaker drivers.

Capacitance. That property of a capacitor which determines how much charge can be stored in it for a given potential difference between its terminals, measured in farads, by the ratio of the charge stored to the potential difference.

Capacitor. A device consisting of two or more conducting plates separated from one another by an insulating material and used for storing an electrical charge. Sometimes called a condenser.

Clipping. Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.

Crossover. An electrical circuit that divides a full bandwidth signal into the desired frequency bands for the loudspeaker components.

dB (decibel). A numerical expression of the relative loudness of a sound. The difference in decibels between two sounds is ten times the Base 10 logarithm of the ratio of their power levels.

DC. Abbreviation for direct current.

Diffraction. The breaking up of a sound wave caused by some type of mechanical interference such as a cabinet edge, grill frame or other similar object.

Diaphragm. A thin flexible membrane or cone that vibrates in response to electrical signals to produce sound waves.

Distortion. Usually referred to in terms of total harmonic distortion (THD) which is the percentage of unwanted harmonics of the drive signal present with the wanted signal. Generally used to mean any unwanted change introduced by the device under question.

Driver. See transducer.

Dynamic Range. The range between the quietest and the loudest sounds a device can handle (often quoted in dB).

Efficiency. The acoustic power delivered for a given electrical input. Often expressed as decibels/watt/meter (dB/w/m).

ESL. Abbreviation for electrostatic loudspeaker.

Headroom. The difference, in decibels, between the peak and RMS levels in program material.

Hybrid. A product created by the marriage of two different technologies. Meant here as the combination of a dynamic woofer with an electrostatic transducer.

Hz (Hertz). Unit of frequency equivalent to the number of cycles per second.

Imaging. To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.

Impedance. The total opposition offered by an electric circuit to the flow of an alternating current of a single frequency. It is a combination of resistance and reactance and is measured in ohms. Remember that a speaker’s impedance changes with frequency, it is not a constant value.

22 Glossary of Audio Terms

Center Channel speaker specifications

The MartinLogan Center Channel speaker is a sophisticated audio component designed to deliver a superior listening experience, particularly in home theater setups. Known for its exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and immersive soundstage, this speaker exemplifies high-end audio engineering.

One of the key features of the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker is its use of electrostatic technology. This innovative design employs a thin, lightweight diaphragm suspended between two conductive panels. This allows for superior transient response and reduced distortion, delivering audio that is both clear and detailed. The electrostatic driver provides a unique sound reproduction that immerses the listener in a rich auditory experience, making dialogues crisp and precise.

In addition to its electrostatic driver, the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker typically includes advanced woofers that complement the high-frequency performance. These woofers are engineered to handle lower frequencies effectively, ensuring a balanced sound profile. The integration of these technologies results in a seamless blend of highs and lows, allowing for a full-spectrum audio experience.

The speaker also features a precision-engineered cabinet designed to minimize resonance and reduce colorations. This construction ensures that the sound produced is true to the original recording, preserving the nuances of music and film soundtracks. The cabinet is usually finished to high standards, making it a visually appealing addition to any home theater setup.

Another important characteristic of the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker is its adjustable crossover settings. This allows users to tailor the speaker's performance to fit their specific room acoustics and personal preferences. By fine-tuning the crossover frequency, enthusiasts can achieve an optimal balance across their entire audio system.

Moreover, the speaker is designed with versatility in mind. Its sleek and aesthetically pleasing design allows it to blend seamlessly with modern home decor, while its robust build quality ensures longevity. Whether used in a dedicated home theater, a living room, or a music listening space, the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker delivers an exceptional audio experience that truly elevates the enjoyment of film and music. With its commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and performance, the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker stands as a premier choice for serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.