Advertisement
X A R E F E R E N C E T O W E R F E A T U R E S
Multi-Element eXpanding Array
Snell first pioneered the XA technique with the XA90
system. Months of study and computer simulation resulted
in a scientifically designed five-element array with idealized
dispersion characteristics. We found that with a carefully
optimized crossover frequencies and slopes in conjunction
with precisely defined driver spacings, that a near constant
directivity and lobe free system was achievable. The net
result was a spectral balance with remarkably little
variation over the difficult vertical listening window and a
useful reduction in floor and ceiling bounce energy that
give the system a more revealing character. The XA
Reference Tower has the best XA performance yet with even
smoother response over a wider listening window and a
wider frequency range. You will note that the central three
drivers are mounted on a very expensive solid machined
MTM plate. This both allows their spacing to be minimized
and also lends the tweeter the same vertical directivity as
the rest of the array's components. Crossover and spacing
of the outer bass units continue the XA effect down to a
very low frequency.
Inert Cabinet Construction
Previous models of Snell systems use a 3-part sandwich
baffle to deaden the mounting surfaces of the drivers. This
is a practical compromise with most of the benefit with
reasonable cost.
The XA Reference Tower, however, has its entire enclosure
built from a multi-layer inert box technique. Cabinet walls
are constructed from 2 wooden layers bonded together
with a high loss polymer adhesive. The baffle is constructed
from 3 wooden layers all bonded together with this special
adhesive.
The end result is a massive and inert cabinet design that
produces cleaner bass and purer midrange than traditional
cabinets built with heavy single wall or even double wall
construction.
4
Radiused Edge Baffle
The elliptical radius on our baffle edge near the tweeter
reduces re-radiation for a cleaner and smoother response.
Snell pioneered this technique in the original Type A
speaker system in 1976.
Rear-Firing Tweeter
The rear-firing tweeter on the XA Reference Tower adds
necessary high-end fill to the soundstage, creating a
broader, deeper stereo image. A three-position switch
allows you to select from two different tweeter levels or
defeat the rear tweeter when the back of the speaker is
close to a wall.
Grille Design
Acoustically transparent grill cloth is applied over a
complex network of hand-welded aluminum extrusions. The
result is a stylish form that does not detract from the XA
Tower's sonic performance.
Handmade Cabinets
The entire construction and finishing process is done by
hand. Each cabinet is assembled by our craftsmen, and then
sanded several times. Multiple coats of hand-applied
finishing oils reveal the great depth of the wood grain. The
result is a cabinet of exceptional workmanship, with sharp
corners, smooth sides, and natural beauty.
Veneers
We use premium book-matched veneers, chosen for grain
consistency and aesthetics, in our cabinets. Each pair of
speakers has wood veneer from the same tree, so grain
patterns are consistent. Our cabinet shop sequences the
veneer, maintaining a match for the top, right/left, and left/
right sides of each pair of speakers. We even go so far as to
veneer the inside of the cabinet to ensure that it won't
warp or come apart at the edges when exposed to changes
in humidity.
Advertisement
