The "W" composite sandwich cone allows perfect optimization of the frequency response curve, right from the cone design stage, thanks to total control of three key parameters: lightness, rigidity and damping.
GLASS FIBRE STRUCTURE
The abbreviation "W" stands for Glass/Glass, as two or more sheets of glass are affixed to either side of the structural foam core. Rigidity is provided by the sandwich structure of the glass fibre fabrics. The glass used is a fine weave of long fibres.
LIGHTNESS AND HOMOGENEITY
This choice offers significantly lower mass and thickness than aramid fibre or Kevlar® fabrics, which generate coloration in the midrange. It is also important to note that the molecular bond between resin and glass is far superior to that obtained with aramid fibres. As a result, the cone's structure is more homogeneous and its behaviour in flex far superior.
OPTIMIZED ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE
These unique characteristics of lightness and rigidity enable us to control the speed of signal transmission within the material. Modulating the thickness of the structural foam core enables precise control of the damping of the "W" composite sandwich cone. By varying the number of glass sheets and the thickness of the central foam, the membrane's behavior is optimized according to the frequency range to be reproduced.
When listened to, the "W" composite sandwich cone delivers total sonic transparency, very low distortion (20 times stiffer than Kevlar® or aramid fibre), and excellent phase response.
Focal products using this technology
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REMOTE AMPLIFIER IN CURRENT MODE
The most transparent and natural
Since main monitors are frequently soffit-mounted, these require external electronics for this application. Focal engineers have therefore developed an amplification system combining a class H with a current mode. By controlling the current (instead of the voltage), it is possible to directly control the force submitted to the membrane and eliminate any unwanted artefacts. Combined with analogue filtering and exceptional drivers, this amplification achieves the lowest THD ever measured in an anechoic chamber.
"M" profile Béryllium Tweeter
Rigidity and Purity
Patented by Focal, the pure beryllium ‘M’ profile tweeter combines rigidity, lightness and damping for exceptional high-frequency reproduction. The ‘M’ membrane is the result of many years of research and expertise. Made in a single piece, it improves sound dispersion, reduces distortion and ensures optimum power handling.
Infinite Horn Loading
High-definition sound
For the Beryllium tweeter to deliver all its finesse, it would need an almost infinite volume. Sopra's need for compactness meant that the maximum volume of the cabinet had to be used for the bass. Exploring new ways of loading the tweeter led us to imagine the IHL infinite-load horn. The IHL (Infinite Horn Loading) system enables the Beryllium tweeter to be loaded while respecting the compactness of the loudspeaker. The rear wave is gently and progressively absorbed to avoid distortion. The result is maximum definition.
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