The Loudspeaker Crossover
“But most important, and perhaps because of that high crossover frequency, instrumental harmonic structures, and especially the human voice, were exceptionally lifelike and coherent. I can’t think of a loudspeaker that better reproduces instrumental and vocal touches and textures. I could consistently rely on the Diablos to provide long evenings’ worth of entertainment without producing boredom or fatigue. They always invited me in and never pushed me away.” Michael Fremer – Stereophile
The Role of the Crossover
A speaker crossover is essential to achieving optimal sound from a loudspeaker system. The passive crossover divides the audio signal into separate frequency ranges, sending each to the appropriate driver. This protects delicate high-frequency drivers from powerful bass signals and ensures each component handles only what it does best. Along with directing frequencies, the crossover balances each driver’s output to create a harmonious and natural sound. It also impacts phase and transient response, both of which are crucial for realistic, three-dimensional music reproduction.
Precision in Design and Adjustment
Developing high-quality passive crossover networks requires precise measurement of impedance, frequency response, and phase. Sophisticated tools and software are helpful, but they can only take the system so far. Achieving the final 20 to 30 percent of performance depends on hours of listening, repeated adjustments, and further measurements. The expertise of the PEAK engineering team and their ability to make subtle decisions is irreplaceable. When measurements are the same, it is the intuition and experience of Peak’s engineers that determine the final configuration.
Craftsmanship in Every Detail
Peak Consult loudspeakers use only the highest quality components—capacitors, coils, and resistors selected for their sonic excellence, regardless of cost. Each one is handmade, and each driver section features its own separate crossover network.
To prevent microphonic effects, all parts are mounted using a special damping glue. Finished crossovers are isolated from the drive unit cabinet, eliminating the influence of acoustic energy. Each crossover is placed in its own sealed chamber, filled with sand (0.3-1.0mm grain size) to minimize vibration and heat and to shield the components from external factors.
Amplifier Compatibility
Peak Loudspeaker Impedance Control (PLIC) is integrated into every Peak loudspeaker. This system equalizes impedance, resulting in an exceptionally flat curve. For amplifiers, this means they are not burdened with unwanted, heavy loads and can perform as designed.
Continuous Refinement
All crossover components are selected and further developed through countless listening sessions. Human hearing can detect differences that instruments cannot measure, so Peak’s experienced engineers—who collectively have more than 100 years of design experience—work closely to create loudspeakers that deliver exceptional musicality and realism.
“But most important, and perhaps because of that high crossover frequency, instrumental harmonic structures, and especially the human voice, were exceptionally lifelike and coherent. I can't think of a loudspeaker that better reproduces instrumental and vocal touches and textures. I could consistently rely on the Diablos to provide long evenings' worth of entertainment without producing boredom or fatigue. They always invited me in and never pushed me away."