As a result of the symmetric 'push/pull' design, not only is the 1801 completely magnetically shielded, it also functions as a dipole cylindrical radiator. The mid/high frequency transducer features Alcons Audio's patented 'Real-90' dispersion, a unique development providing for a constant horizontal directivity of 90° up to 20kHz.
"We wanted to explore the possibilities of increasing the performance of the RBN601, our initial pro-ribbon driver and evolution platform for the RBN-series of ribbon transducers," said Philip de Haan, head of Alcons Audio R&D. "We already downscaled the patented 601 into the 401, which is used in our LR14 ultra-compact line-array and VR8 compact monitor. Both drivers have proven themselves as very reliable, with not one single unit failing to date." Philip has initiated a number of significant patents and has been involved in pro-ribbon technology for 20 years.
De Haan continues: "With our research going further into array-technology, the need existed for a larger, single-diaphragm driver: Of course, a larger radiating surface can be made with multiple smaller drivers, but this will drastically sacrifice the degree of frontal-radiation, which is one of the main criteria for line-source behaviour. As a driver with these required specifications simply didn't exist, the necessity arose to develop this driver ourselves."
Achieving the power handling and efficiency of the 601 driver proved quite a challenge. De Haan says: "Because of enlarging the engine of the driver, we encountered a totally different set of physical challenges that we had to cope with, not only in the development stage but also in the production process where each driver should be manufactured within 1dB deviation."
Tom Back, Alcons Audio managing director, adds: "The RBN1801 is further proof of the leading position Alcons has in pro-ribbon technology, and it confirms why Philip de Haan is seen by many in the industry as the father of today's high output pro ribbon technology."
Alcons Audio believes the RBN1801 will become the platform for a range of new, evolutionary solutions for installed sound, live sound, cinema audio, and the recording studio market, starting with the upcoming Q-series.
(Lee Baldock)
