Can I do distortion testing on a baffle without an enclosure?

[fjhuerta]

Right now, I have my baffles built and ready. No enclosures, though.

Can I do distortion measurements (sweeps) without them?

Baffles are 50 cms x 30 cms. on 3/4" MDF.

[Mazeroth]

Yes and no. If you do nearfield measurements at low levels then it should work, though, that's not very useful. Then, the louder you go, the further you'll have to move your mic from the baffle and you'll start to get cancellations from the rear wave, especially at lower frequencies.

Personally, I'd wait. Or, you can use it as a learning experience and do before and after enclosure. :P

[ThomasW]

Right now, I have my baffles built and ready. No enclosures, though.

Can I do distortion measurements (sweeps) without them?

Of course ... just don't try high power sweeps

[fjhuerta]

Thanks!

I suppose I'll do a before and after measurement.

But, if I understand correctly, the best way to do it is with an open baffle, right?

[benchtester]

One procedure is to take data on an "infinite" baffle. Then design the box using this data. Then build the box and test the enclosed speaker.

It sound like you have your final baffle. You could clamp it to MDF or plywood sheets (even cardboard, though not as good) to make a meter or four feet square baffle.

Zaph does discuss his test baffle some on his web page (zaphaudio.com)