Atf .(Advanced .Thin .Film) - MartinLogan Preface User Manual

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ATF .Operation
The MartinLogan ATF transducer (based on RADIA planar
technology) consists of a micro-thin, low-mass Kaladex
diaphragm with an ultra-light, etched conductive aluminum
surface suspended between two high field strength neodym-
ium super magnet arrays (see figure 4). When an electrical
current (music signal) passes through the etched aluminum
on the diaphragm's surface it is simultaneously pulled
towards one of the neodymium arrays and pushed away
from the opposing array. When the direction of current
is reversed the diaphragm is simultaneously pushed and
pulled in the opposite direction, thus producing sound.
Extremely .Low-Mass .Diaphragm
—Blazing .Speed .and .Inner .Detail
Low-mass diaphragms are crucial to a loudspeaker's ability
to accurately reproduce sound. As the mass of a transducer's
diaphragm decreases, its ability to resolve detail increases.
With extremely low-mass characteristics, the ATF transducer
tracks the audio signal with almost perfect accuracy.
MartinLogan ATF diaphragms are constructed of extremely
low mass Dupont Kaladex® PEN (polyethylene naphthal-
ate)—a material chemically similar to the low-mass PET
(polyethylene terathylate) film used in MartinLogan's genera-
tion 2 electrostatic transducers, yet capable of handling
the high thermal requirements required for stable magnetic
thin film operation.
High .Field .Strength
—Superb .Control .and .Efficiency
With a field strength almost 2000% more powerful than
traditional systems, Neodymium iron boron (NIB) rare-earth
super magnets are one of the world's strongest commer-
cially available magnetic materials. This incredible field
strength proves ideal for maintaining perfect control over
the low-mass Kaladex diaphragm. Super-low distortion lev-
els, high-resolution, and crystal-clear transparency are just a
few of the benefits resulting from this superb combination of
low-mass diaphragm and high field strength.
10 ATF (Advnaced Thin Film)
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Push-Pull .Operation .= .Ideal .Linearity
Linearity is another factor contributing to a loudspeaker's
ability to achieve ultimate clarity, detail and resolution. By
positioning neodymium magnet arrays in a push-pull con-
figuration, MartinLogan ATF transducer technology maintains
uniform diaphragm control, regardless of position as it tra-
verses the entire audio signal. The push-pull concept is a
major contributor to the linearity and sonic superiority of
ATF transducers.
Direct .Full-Surface .Drive
Provides .Outstanding .Clarity
Unlike traditional voice coil driven systems, ATF diaphragms
are directly and uniformly driven throughout their entire
surface. This full-surface drive system results in ultra-fast
transient response with no cone break up and the abil-
ity to accurately reproduce sound with great delicacy,
nuance and clarity.
Figure 4. Cut away view of an ATF transducer. Note the simplicity due to
minimal part usage.