- Thread Starter
- #21
Can you reference a source for this “upside-down Dolby” technique? It sounds like it might be what I stumbled on: my center channel speakers array is similar to the Magnepan-championed “Tri-field Center” arrangement, with 3 dedicated center channel speakers, independent from the main front left and right channel speakers.
No source, just me. Because I have hardwood floors, I was thinking I could aim a "center" from above the screen to the first reflection point on the floor to create an effect similar to the upfiring Dolby speakers that have become popular. I have no illusions about the compromise there, and probably I'd be better off just pointing straight at LP, but doesn't cost a lot to try. Re: trifield, I'm not opposed to trying it but I think I'd need a processor capable (Meridian?) or more spare time + assistance than I have at my disposal.
I Did notice the UST leaves just enough gap between itself and the projected image that I can insert a kef HTF8003 on the screen's bezel pointed at listeners. Probably going to start there because it doesn't involve drilling holes, but hopefully something more elegant comes my way.
The key to this working well is, the near speaker’s output must fall off smoothly and fairly rapidly as we move off-axis. Earl Geddes, who I learned this technique from, has mentioned both 90-degree and 60-degree (-6 dB @ 45 and 30 degrees off-axis, respectively) radiation patterns as being well- suited for this application.
I believe my Kef R3's fall into this category? On average, what's a good starting point for how far in front the speakers should be aimed? As in, typically you start with aiming speakers at primary listening position. But seems as though I should go a few ft. ahead? Or just a few inches? I know room etc. play into it, just looking for a starting point.
If your receiver is trying to play on a non-existent center channel, it should be pretty obvious. At least in movies you'll hardly hear anything at all because 80% of the sound comes from the center channel.
its strange, so far the phantom center for movie/TV dialogue is picture perfect. Music, not even close. Haven't had enough time to experiment to get to the bottom of it