Acoustical Performance and Tuning of Magic Bus 3.0

Acoustical Performance and Tuning of Magic Bus 3.0

Jon Whitledge describes the uniques and unprecedented acoustical treatments designed for the Magic Bus, and the techniques used to tune Magic Bus 3.0.

The article titled Acoustical Performance and Tuning of Magic Bus 3.0 explores unique acoustical treatments and tuning techniques applied to the Magic Bus 3.0 audio system. It highlights advancements in phase alignment, driver isolation, time alignment, and the importance of minimizing group delay to achieve a superior frequency response. The focus is on solving phase issues, ensuring all drivers are in phase across all frequencies, and optimizing the system for a refined, coherent audio experience. This article provides insights into advanced mobile audio engineering, with a deep dive into tuning methodologies and their impact on sound quality.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0hgcnleWTM

Acoustical Performance and Tuning of Magic Bus 3.0

https://magicbus.biz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thwWA9Cl1BM

Are You Tuned-In To Phase?

This instructional movie presentation shows the shortcomings of conventional crossover topologies, particularly with respect to phase problems. Jon Whitledge, scientist, engineer, craftsman, and audiophile, introduces the solution to the problem(s) using breakthrough techniques that put all drivers in phase at all frequencies. The use of these techniques can take your mobile audio system to a never-before-realized and entirely new level of performance. visit www.magicbus.biz for more information.

Driver Isolation

Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB / octave filters

Maintain audio frequency phasing.

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Driver time alignments

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Phasing Effects and Group Delay

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_delay_and_phase_delay

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Resulting Frequency Response

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“This issue of phase is really a problem.” — woofer fighting subwoofer

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Phasing problems move around.

Guiding philosophy of legendary loudspeaker designer STEEN DUELAND — “All drivers must be in-phase at all times at all frequencies.”

MagicBus achieves this. Requires careful crossover topology and time-alignment.

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Measures great. How does it sound?

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“A coherence not normally heard.” – Robert Harley, Absolute Sound, Stereophile

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An approximation of the “JBL Target Curve” was used for illustrative purposes only and may not be YOUR preferred target. YOU may prefer the Magic Bus’ target curve but the principles regarding phase are the same.

Using 4th-order Linkwitz-Riley ACOUSTIC slopes on your drivers aligns the phase of the drivers at the crossover frequency but results in intra-driver phase problems at other frequencies.

Intra-driver time delays can be predicted by simulation and experimentally validated using a proprietary technique resultings in unprecedented precision.

Adjusting the level of a driver [alters] the [perceived] crossover point and its time alignment parameters.

An osccilloscope must be used to tune the gain structure and verify the desired polarity.

YOUR drivers are probably NOT in phase at all frequencies.

Through state-of-the-art design, fabrication second-to-none, and proprietary tuning techniques, the Magic Bus achieves unparalleled measured performance (https://magicbus.biz/measurements.html) and unequaled acclaim from home and mobile audio experts, producers, musicians, and mixing/mastering engineers.

“The worst thing you can do [to bass in car audio] is make it mono and put [its source, the subwoofer] behind you [the listener].” — 16:00 in


Acoustical Performance and Tuning of Magic Bus 3.0

The Magic Bus 3.0 represents a new pinnacle in mobile audio engineering. In this iteration, every component has been meticulously designed and fine-tuned to deliver an unparalleled auditory experience. This blog post explores the groundbreaking acoustical treatments and tuning techniques that make the Magic Bus 3.0 an auditory marvel.

Phase Alignment: The Foundation of Fidelity

One of the key advancements in Magic Bus 3.0 is the precision phase alignment. Ensuring that all drivers operate cohesively, phase alignment minimizes destructive interference and enhances the clarity and coherence of the soundstage. Through advanced calibration tools, engineers have synchronized the output across frequencies, eliminating the phasing issues common in complex multi-driver setups.

Driver Isolation: Reducing Vibrational Interference

Vibrational isolation has been a cornerstone of this build. Each driver is housed in an isolated chamber, significantly reducing mechanical cross-talk and preserving the integrity of individual sound frequencies. This ensures that bass, midrange, and treble elements are reproduced without distortion or muddiness.

Time Alignment: Perfecting Listener Experience

Time alignment is another critical focus area. By aligning the timing of sound waves reaching the listener’s ears, the Magic Bus 3.0 creates a unified sonic experience. This approach addresses the delays introduced by varying driver positions, ensuring that all sounds arrive in harmony, as intended by the original recording.

Group Delay: The Hidden Culprit

Minimizing group delay has been a key challenge tackled in this iteration. Group delay—the time taken for different frequencies to align properly—can cause auditory smearing and reduce clarity. Through custom DSP (Digital Signal Processing) configurations, this issue has been addressed, resulting in a sharp, accurate frequency response across the board.

Frequency Response: Achieving Balance

A perfectly balanced frequency response is the hallmark of Magic Bus 3.0. Engineers have fine-tuned the system to ensure that no frequency band overpowers another. Whether it’s the deep resonance of the bass or the shimmering highs, every sound is reproduced with precision, making the listening experience both dynamic and immersive.

Conclusion: A New Benchmark

The Magic Bus 3.0 is more than just a mobile audio system; it’s a testament to what can be achieved with dedication to acoustical excellence. By addressing phase alignment, driver isolation, time alignment, and group delay, this system sets a new standard in sound quality. For audiophiles and casual listeners alike, the Magic Bus 3.0 promises a listening experience that redefines expectations.

Acoustical Performance and Tuning of Magic Bus 3.0

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