Zaph ZRT 2-way vs. 2.5 sealed

[OmegaSpeed]

I'd be curious to know what one could expect different, sonically, between the ZRT 2-way and 2.5 sealed version?

You don't see many sealed speakers but I have read positive comments about it if done right.

Also, are there downsides to the sealed version compared to the 2-way?

Thanks

[Jed]

The regular 2-way ported will go lower than the 2.5way sealed but have less power handling.

[OmegaSpeed]

Thanks Jed. What would be the advantage of adding the second driver and using a sealed enclosure?

[Jed]

Thanks Jed. What would be the advantage of adding the second driver and using a sealed enclosure?

Adding another woofer will help lower distortion, add more effeciency, help cancel standing waves inside the box, alter room floor bounce cancelations, etc. Generally better in all regards.

A 2.5way ported or sealed will both have these characteristics with the ported system playing lower, but may not integrate with a sub as well later on. I haven't modeled the ScanSpeaks in a sealed box so I'm not sure how satifying the bass would be but I'd imagine it would require a sub for much bass extention.

Jed

[JonW]

A 2.5way ported or sealed will both have these characteristics with the ported system playing lower, but may not integrate with a sub as well later on.

Hey Jed,

I followed everything you said except for the part about the 2.5 way not integrating with a sub as well. Can you explain that one? Thanks.

-Jon

[Dennis H]

I could be wrong but I think he meant ported may not integrate with a sub as well as sealed, whether it's a 2-way or a 2.5-way.