Jump to content

Changing taps on autotransformer – effects on the xo circuits


Alexander

Recommended Posts

 


 

There has been some confusion on changing tap points on an xo to alter the attenuation. Some people say not to do this, that would require a complete re designing of the xo and others have shared no concerns and make tap point changes. Both groups of people are respected in their fields so which is right?

Link to comment
Share on other sites

9 hours ago, Alexander said:

There has been some confusion on changing tap points on an xo to alter the attenuation. Some people say not to do this, that would require a complete re designing of the xo and others have shared no concerns and make tap point changes. Both groups of people are respected in their fields so which is right?

 

Well, you can't just change the setting unless you change the capacitor value or use a swamping resistor on the midrange. I wouldn't call that "a complete redesign" - just a small modification which is required to keep the crossover point the same. 

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

The change to the autoformer tap changes the downstream impedance.  If you are using a 6db electrical crossover, you end up doubling or halfing the capacitor value as you double or half  the impedance.

Refer to Crites 3636 autoformer specs for the impedance multiplier.  https://critesspeakers.com/3636atz.pdf

 

Of course measure to insure the impact on the driver is as in theory and if you don't know the specs of the autoformer but apply what Dean has pointed out.  You'll likely not hear any significant difference.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

12 hours ago, DizRotus said:

I have tried several taps on my Crites 3636 autotransformers without changing anything else on my Super Heresys.  I don’t recall which tap they’re on now but they are several dB down on the squawkers and they sound great.

Same here. I'm one tap down in number from what Claude originally suggested.  Sounds awesome

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

6 hours ago, mopardave said:

Same here. I'm one tap down in number from what Claude originally suggested.  Sounds awesome

Before I changed that tap, the mid driver a 55m sounded very distorted when I put my ear up to it. After changing tap the mid sounded very clean and clear.   When I stood back listening the speaker sounded much better.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...