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.

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MartinLogan Odyssey user manual Glossary of Audio Terms
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Odyssey specifications

The MartinLogan Odyssey is a distinguished loudspeaker that showcases the brand's commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and exceptional audio performance. This electrostatic speaker is designed for audiophiles who desire an immersive listening experience, blending advanced technology with luxurious aesthetics.

At the heart of the Odyssey is MartinLogan's renowned electrostatic technology, which utilizes a thin, electrically charged diaphragm suspended between two perforated metal stators. This design allows for extremely low distortion and a wide frequency response. The result is clear, detailed sound reproduction that captures the nuances of both music and film audio, making it a perfect choice for critical listening environments.

One of the standout features of the Odyssey is its unique design that incorporates the company's latest advancements in transducer technology. The speaker boasts a large, full-range electrostatic panel, which provides an expansive soundstage and extraordinary imaging. This panel is complemented by a high-performance, low-frequency driver that seamlessly integrates with the electrostatic element, ensuring a well-rounded and balanced sound across the auditory spectrum.

The cabinet design of the Odyssey is also noteworthy. Crafted from high-quality materials, the enclosure is engineered to minimize resonance while providing a visually appealing appearance. The sleek, contemporary design fits elegantly into a variety of interior settings, making the speakers a stylish addition to any audio setup.

Another significant feature of the MartinLogan Odyssey is its precise, adjustable crossover network. This network manages the transition between the electrostatic panel and the woofer, ensuring smooth integration and coherence across all frequencies. Such precision in engineering allows discerning listeners to enjoy their favorite recordings with impeccable clarity and detail.

Additionally, the Odyssey is designed for versatility in placement. The speaker is equipped with various adjustment options for height and tilt, allowing users to optimize sound dispersion and field. This adaptability makes it suitable for both dedicated listening rooms and home theaters.

In summary, the MartinLogan Odyssey exemplifies what can be achieved with state-of-the-art electrostatic technology combined with thoughtful design. With its focus on audio fidelity, impressive build quality, and aesthetic elegance, the Odyssey stands as a titan among high-end loudspeakers, appealing to both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
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