Exploring the Electro-Voice Interface D: A Classic Speaker of the 1970s
One of the most popular and influential speakers of the 1970’s was the Electro-Voice Interface D. Developed by audio engineer Don Keele for the Electro-Voice company, the Interface D quickly became a favorite among music enthusiasts and audio professionals alike. In this post, we’ll explore the unique features and design elements that made the Electro-Voice Interface D such an important and enduring speaker, and we’ll provide a list of its pros and cons.
One of the key features of the Electro-Voice Interface D was its use of a horn-loaded compression driver for the high-frequency output. This innovative design helped to ensure that the speaker could deliver clear, detailed sound even at high volumes, while also reducing distortion and improving overall efficiency. The speaker also featured a large 12-inch woofer for the low-frequency output, which helped to deliver powerful and accurate bass response.
Another important aspect of the Electro-Voice Interface D was its cabinet design. The speaker was housed in a sturdy, rectangular enclosure made from thick particleboard. The cabinet was designed to be resonance-free, which helped to eliminate unwanted vibrations and deliver a cleaner, more accurate sound. The enclosure also featured a unique angled baffle design, which helped to reduce diffraction and further improve sound quality.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with clear, detailed high frequencies and accurate, powerful bass
- Unique horn-loaded compression driver design reduces distortion and improves efficiency
- Sturdy and durable construction with a resonance-free cabinet design
- Angled baffle design reduces diffraction and improves sound quality
- Enduring popularity and influence on the speaker industry
In terms of pros, the Electro-Voice Interface D was widely praised for its exceptional sound quality and overall reliability. The horn-loaded compression driver helped to deliver clear, detailed sound even at high volumes, and the large woofer provided accurate and powerful bass response. The speaker was also built to last, with a durable construction and high-quality components that ensured it could continue to deliver great sound for many years.
Cons:
- Relatively large and heavy, making it less portable and more difficult to move around than some other speakers of the era
- Some listeners found the speaker to be a bit too bright or harsh, which could be fatiguing during long listening sessions
On the downside, the Electro-Voice Interface D was relatively large and heavy, which made it less portable and more difficult to move around than some other speakers of the era. Additionally, some listeners found the speaker to be a bit too bright or harsh, which could be fatiguing during long listening sessions.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Electro-Voice Interface D remains an iconic and highly regarded speaker to this day. Its influence can be seen in countless other speakers that have followed in its wake, and its exceptional sound quality and durable construction have helped it to endure over time.
The Electro-Voice Interface D was one of the most popular and influential speakers of the 1970s. Its unique horn-loaded compression driver and sturdy cabinet design helped to set a new standard for speaker performance, and its exceptional sound quality and enduring popularity are a testament to its enduring legacy. Whether you’re a die-hard audiophile or simply a music lover looking for great sound, the Electro-Voice Interface D is a speaker that should not be missed.
That’s it for now! Spin the Vinyl. Drop the Needle. Snap, Crackle & Pop!
