Alexandria X-2 Series 2 - Wilson Audio

A l e x a n d r i a X - 2 S e r i e s 2 O w n e r ’ s M a n u a ldirectly beside the speakers. It is our experience that all of these room treatment devicesshould be used judiciously.Standing WavesAnother type of reflection phenomenon is “standing waves.” Standing waves causethe unnatural boosting or accentuation of certain frequencies, typically in the bass, tobe found at certain discreet locations in the room. These locations differ according toroom dimension and size. A room generating severe standing waves creates difficulty insetup. In these rooms, the speaker will sound radically different as it is moved around.The effects of standing waves on a loudspeaker’s performance are primarily in the areaslisted.• Tonal balance• Resolution of low-level detail• SoundstagingStanding waves are more difficult to correct than slap echo because they tend tooccur at a lower frequency. Absorbent materials, such as Illbruck Sonex®, are ineffectiveat controlling reflections in the bass region. Moving speakers about slightly in theroom is, for most people, their only control over standing waves. Sometimes a change ofplacement of as little as two or three inches can dramatically alter the tonal balance ofa small system.Fortunately, minor low frequency standing waves are well controlled by positioningASC Tube Traps in the corners of the room. Very serious low frequency accentuationusually requires a custom-designed bass trap system.Low frequency standing waves can be particularly troublesome in rooms constructedof concrete or brick. These materials trap the bass in the room unless it is allowed to24Wilson Audio Specialties