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Parasound has introduced the model C 70 two-channel
ceiling speaker, responding to numerous requests from custom installers for
a two-channel version of its popular C 65 6-1/2" coaxial ceiling speaker.
Installers often specify two-channel ceiling speakers to make their jobs
easier when installing speakers in zones where both left and right channels
must be routed to only one speaker, but inherent design flaws in
conventional two-channel designs often lead to significant performance
sacrifices.
 "Our
goal," says Parasound president, Richard Schram, "was to make a two-channel
speaker which would sound identical to our C 65. However, this was easier
said than done! We soon learned that the typical dual-tweeter,
dual-voice-coil-woofer configuration had inherent flaws. With two tweeters,
the mid and high frequencies from one tweeter reinforce and cancel the mid
and high frequencies from the other
tweeter, causing very jagged and fatiguing frequency response peaks and
dips. Tonal quality varies immensely as you move around the room.
"The basic problem with a two channel woofer voice coil," continues Schram,
"is that it weighs more than a conventional voice coil. This weight reduces
the woofer's sensitivity, while its frequency response and tonal balance
vary drastically, depending on if one or two channels are connected. Also,
its impedance is halved when its two voice coils are connected in parallel
for a single channel."
To make a C 70 two-channel speaker sound like a C 65, Parasound uses an
actual C 65 driver and crossover. Schram's innovation is to connect the two
input terminals directly to a special precision audio transformer with two 8
ohm primary windings and a single 8 ohm secondary winding, which in-turn
connects to a single C 65 crossover. Signals from the left and right
amplifier channels are safely blended to mono in this
unique transformer.
This has several major advantages: First, Its load is always a gentle and
consistent 8 ohms for both one- and two-channel configurations. In other
two-channel speakers when the channels are connected in parallel, the
resulting 4-ohm impedance leads to increased amplifier distortion, reduced
dynamic headroom, increased its operating temperature, and a shorter
operating life.
Second, the C 70 level stays the same whether one or both channels are
connected. Now you can install two-channel C 70s and single-channel C 65s in
the same system and know their levels will all match. The output levels of
other brands of two-channel speakers will always be relatively lower with
one channel connected, or higher with both channels connected.
Finally, the C 70 has the same excellent frequency response and "point
source" dispersion characteristics as the C 65. With other two-channel
speakers, response is ragged and radiating patterns are full of "hot spots"
and "nulls" that make uniform coverage nearly impossible.
The C 70 is ideal for open spaces or for mounting near side walls. The
1-inch Ferrofluid-cooled soft-dome tweeter can be aimed up to 15 degrees
off-axis for smoother in-room response and precise focus. The 6.5-inch
Polypropylene/Mica woofer features an advanced Santoprene surround material
that both improves frequency response linearity, and prevents the
deterioration that occurs in conventional foam surrounds over time.
The Parasound C 70 two-channel ceiling speaker is currently available at a
suggested retail price of $325 per pair.
Founded in 1981, Parasound Products, Inc., is a privately owned U.S. company
that specializes in providing affordable audio and home theater components
to the critical listener. Parasound's products are available from quality
audio/video retailers, and select custom installation specialists. For more
information, visit www.parasound.com
or call 415-397-7100.
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