Planar magnetic speakers are similar to the electrostatic ones; both are a type of flat-panel speakers. These devices are nearly identical because they both have a large, thin, and vertically oriented plastic diaphragm that operates as a vibrating element. As the name suggests, planar magnetic speakers are based on traditional magnetic principles (as are magnetostatic and magnetostrictive ones). In essence, the thin wires from a plastic diaphragm create a sound that is resemblant to a voice coil stretched out lengthwise. The magnetic strips are in both the front and the back of the diaphragm. In addition, the magnetic interaction is responsible for the vibration and the movement of said diaphragm.
Planar Magnetic Speakers and Magnepan
Magnepan is the primary manufacturer of planar magnetic speakers. The first version of the planar magnetic speaker launched un 1971. Its name was Magneplanar Tympani I. This model involved three tall panels that worked as dipoles.
Characteristics
Planar magnetic loudspeakers have rectangular flat surfaces that emit signals from both the front and the backside. They involve wide diaphragms, including woofers and mid-ranges. They traditionally have vertical rows of magnets that alter between north and south poles, so they have a specific place within the magnetic field. This magnetic field becomes more linear when the diaphragm is present because the distribution tends to be more even.
Planar magnetic drivers are frequent in high-quality headphones. The moving mass of the diaphragm of the planar magnetic drivers is extremely small and light-weight. Because of this, they are very delicate and accurate. The voice coil of planar magnetic drivers spread out over a large area, which causes an effective dissipation of high temperatures.
Planar Magnetic Speakers: Conclusions
These speakers can handle a large amount of power without excessive stress or audible strain. Well-manufactured ones have a near-perfect resistive load since the voice coil tends to be a very long and thin wire that works as a simple resistor. This is the easiest load for the amp to operate, which results in the best possible sound.
