Combining world-class performance with a reasonable cost, the Epique E150HE-44 5-1/2" carbon fiber cone woofer from Dayton Audio sets a new standard in versatility, distortion, and response for small speakers. This dual voice coil driver uses a patented MMAG dual gap motor assembly for unmatched linear excursion capability to create compact systems with more bass output and lower distortion than ever. Featuring a carbon fiber cone, dual voice coils, custom tooled suspension, FEA optimized motor, cast aluminum frame, ample venting, and extensive induction control, the E150HE-44 pushes the limits of performance for a 5-1/2" driver. Capable of exceptional performance in everything from small subwoofers to 2-way designs, this versatile driver will redefine what is possible from compact speaker systems.
MMAG motor assembly - like no other
MMAG = Multiple Magnet Air Gap
The heart of the E150HE-44 is the patented MMAG dual gap motor assembly. This unique design uses 2 top plates spaced between 6 smaller bucking magnets creating a longer magnetic gap with more consistent flux than more common dual gap arrangements. The combination of the MMAG motor and the underhung voice coil gives the E150HE-44 zero loss of motor force (Bl) even when driven to 10 mm of excursion, and an overall excursion capability of over 14 mm (at 70% Bl). This incredible excursion capability allows extremely low harmonic and intermodulation distortion to ensure remarkably clean output even when driven to high output levels. Furthermore, the motor includes extensive induction control to lower Le and improve high-frequency response.
Carbon fiber is all about performance
The rigid carbon fiber cone gives the E150HE-44 a unique look while offering a number of performance advantages. With one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios of readily available materials, carbon fiber keeps the moving mass to a minimum enabling extended low-frequency extension without sacrificing efficiency. The woven cone has excellent damping properties which keep unwanted resonances under control for the incredibly smooth response all the way up to 4,000 Hz. Optimized cone and dust cap profiles make sure that there is no deformation when exposed to high stress so the smooth response and low distortion remain consistent even when pushed to high output levels. Finally, the outside edge of the cone has been reinforced to further control cone breakup and help maintain controlled off-axis dispersion.
High excursion requires flexible suspension
When designing the E150HE-44, Dayton Audio paid extra attention to optimize the suspension to guarantee unrestricted excursion without limiting performance. The large roll rubber surround was custom tooled for high excursion while paying extra attention to the profile to avoid limiting off axis dispersion. A filleted inside edge helps to add extra damping to the cone while reducing reflection from the high roll surround to further improve higher frequency response. A large diameter progressive spider helps keep the cone linear when driven to high excursion without restriction. In addition, the tinsel leads have been woven into the spider on opposing sides to keep mass and compliance displaced evenly across the spider.
Extensive venting helps displace unwanted heat
Excess heat build up will increase resistance and cause significant power compression and even failure. The force air across the voice coil and keep everything cool the E150HE-44 has extensive cooling. Another advantage of this MMAG motor assembly is the open spaces between the bucking magnets which allow unrestricted airflow directly into the center of the magnetic gap. With this open layout cool air is pulled directly across the voice coil to remove heat more efficiently than more common motor designs. Also the E150HE-44 includes a vented voice coil former, 3 large peripheral gap vents, and unrestricted airflow under the spider to make sure that every component has fresh air moving across it to keep temperatures at a minimum even when pushed hard for long periods.
Cast aluminum frame holds everything together
In order to support its massive motor assembly while providing a solid mounting surface, the E150HE-44 uses a rugged cast aluminum frame. The minimalistic design of the frame eliminates unwanted reflections and provides ample airflow for the rear of the cone. With plenty of space behind the spider makes sure that you can push the limits of excursion without bottoming out. Being a non-magnetic material, the aluminum frame has no effect to the magnetic field allowing the motor to effortlessly perform exactly as designed. As an added bonus aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat to further assist in cooling.
Note: This is a dual voice coil driver with 4 ohms per voice coil. Specs have been measured with the voice coils wired in series.