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WAF (Wife Acceptance Factor)and Speakers

How important is the fabric on speakers to their sound? If I changed the covers of my speakers to a more decorative fabric to please my girlfriend, would that really be a big deal? Obviously, I wouldn't cover them with wool blankets, but would, for example, a light silk really sound that much different than whatever the manufacturers use? Given that many audiophiles think that the shape of their AC cords dramatically affect the sound, it is interesting that no one seems to discuss this topic. Any ideas or advice would be greatly appreciated.
cwlondon
dekay's avatar
dekay
2,959 posts
 
Ekmaia: No, sorry I don't. I would assume that the fabrics that they use are made exclusively for their ties. I own five of their paisley ties, because I like the fabric, which is why this particular company came to mind when making my little joke. I do not even know if the ties are available in the US for that matter. The ones that I have all came from the UK. Since I am already in the process of boring everyone to tears I may as well add that I first became aware of the clothing shop from an old "spy spoof" movie from the 60's, starring the same actor that starred in "The Time Machine," that featured the shop when selecting a wardrobe for the reluctant spy in training. Rod somebody, I think.
eldragon
707 posts
 
Rod Taylor.
garfish
1,840 posts
 
Vandersteen uses grill cloth that they call "sonically transparent"-- this is essential to Vand. as they use a "boxless" design and have the cloth on all four sides, and it's not removeable. The point being that the cloth they use is carefully chosen and very important. Megasam, above gives good advice. Craig.
dekay's avatar
dekay
2,959 posts
 
Thanks Dragon. The Vandersteen fabric is not very transparent (visualy), I wonder what the trick of the weave is? I have witnessed people using "whatever" replacement fabric in the 70's on KLH and AR speakers with not so good sonic results. I wonder if there is a DIY speaker forum with info on the subject?
john_l
782 posts
 
Interpreting womens taste is extremely dangerous, and stupid to attempt, but I think small, well finished and unnoticable are some key ordered factors. The women in my family have commented on how furniturally acceptable my Audio Physic Virgo speakers are. They hated my vandersteens 3A's. Another area that you might want to look at is distance from wall. AP's need to be out a bit to sound good (easily slideable). British speakers: Rogers and Linns tend to be small, and sound very good even when placed right against a wall (their backs). I've never heard them, but NHT's are supposed to be quite good, and are made to have their backs right against a wall. A little big, but they might fly if placed on either side of a television.
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