In this article I will describe how to build a high-fidelity, bass-intensive sound system for under $1000. The secret ingredient of the system is the use of tactile transducers. These transducers effectively eliminate the need for expensive woofers or subwoofers. It’s an efficient method of producing deep, high-fidelity bass for a fraction of the usual cost. Many of the ideas presented here were gleaned from the recommendations of audio enthusiasts, and the book High-Performance Audio Systems by Robert Harley.

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Audiophiles have long been presented with an unending dilemma, pitting the need for sonic perfection against the desire to maintain a comfortable, aesthetic living environment (and happy spouse). This is usually a precarious balance, since the best-sounding speakers are often the largest and, dare we say, ugliest. While many technologies have addressed this dilemma in part, none have laid it to rest. (more…)

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Best Portable iPod and MP3 Speakers

A few months ago, MetaEfficient profiled an energy efficient home speaker system for the iPod. But what if you want to bring your music with you on the go – and share it outside your headphones? You’ll need a set of portable speakers that are just as mobile as your MP3 player. Following are six of the best portable speaker systems on the market, in a range of sizes and offering a variety of features. All of them feature a self-contained power source, and some offer an iPod dock as well as a standard 3.5mm mini-jack connection.

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The tube has an anodized aluminum housing which resists stains and scratches, but weighs in at only two pounds. The speakers are 2” aluminium cones with dual neodymium magnets. The system can be disassembled for stereo separation purposes, and then reassembled back into tube form. It runs for approximately 20 hours on 4 AA batteries. It is available for $99 from Virgin.

Coming soon is the Boomtube Ex, which is has a sub woofer-like bass tube and more than 40 watts of total system power generated from rechargeable batteries at $199.

NOTE: Virgin Electronics has been closed down. We are not sure if these speakers are available anywhere.

Home Page: Virgin Boomtube

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The Buttkicker uses a “suspended magnetic system” to reproduce soundwaves that are not air dependent, and can reproduce frequencies down to 5HZ (below human hearing). Variations of the Buttkicker are found in professional settings, such as movie theaters, and concert halls. The Buttkicker 2 came out recently, they cost around $250.

Clark Synthesis Tactile Transducers have a very compact transducer design, and can be placed inside (or on the bottom of) chairs, couches to produce deep bass response that is both intimate and effective. They also cost around $250, and are available here for example.

Aura Bass Shakers are another type of transducer device designed to reproduce inaudible low frequencies, designed to give an extra “punch” to your sound system. The Shaker is usually attached directly to the object to be “shaken”, such as a chair (similar to the Clark Tactile Transducer) in order to realize its effect. Bass Shakers can be used not only by themselves, but in conjunction with a traditional subwoofer setup. They cost around $45, see this retailer for example.

Here is a Tactile Transducer FAQ.

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The Polk Atrium loudspeakers are rugged, weather-resistant, self-powered and portable. Many outdoor speakers are suitable only for sheltered locations. The Atrium speakers meet industry & military specs for full exposure to the elements. The speakers are constructed of stainless steel and brass components to resist rust and corrosion. The cabinets are completely sealed to enhance weatherproofing and are designed to withstand temperatures above 175 degrees by using a UV-protected polymer.

Three Atrium models are available. The Atrium 45 is the least expensive at $145, the newer Atrium 55 costs $299 per pair. The Atrium 65DSI has a dual capabilities — it can function as a single speaker or part of part of a pair, and costs $269.

Home Page: Polk Audio

Available from Amazon: Atrium 45 ($145) or the newer Atrium 55 ($299)

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