Super-tweeters

Super-tweeters which are capable of reproducing ultrasonic frequencies above the 20 kHz, which is generally  considered to be the cut-off frequency for human hearing, are becoming fashionable again. This is possibly because of the increased interest in so called High Resolution files which are capable of reproducing sounds in the ultra-sonic range.

Many users of super-tweeters claim that they improve the sound of the bass frequencies and make the sound more "airy" whatever that means. Some users claim an extraordinary improvement in sound quality. Let's see the proof anyone can make a claim which has no real foundation in fact.

Many supporters quote some research conducted by Tsutomu Oohashi in the year 2000 which is supposed to prove that subjects can perceive the so called "hypersonic" sounds above 20 kHz. No-one has been able to repeat these results yet.

Oohashi research also indicated that ultrasonics did affect the brainwaves of experimental subjects but it did not prove that the subjects were able to perceive this effect.

There have been many double-blind tests performed which have not been able to confirm that test subjects can perceive the difference between music reproduction which contains ultrasonic content and music which does not.

Anyone who claims to be able to hear a difference is obliged to submit themselves to double-blind testing.

Super-tweeter manufacturers should also publish any independent and peer reviewed double-blind tests which they have conducted which prove that human beings can perceive ultrasonic frequencies or that super-tweeters do in fact improve sound quality.

The proponents of super-tweeters and ultra high frequency sound files should be open-minded enough to accept that their claims should be tested by the scientific method to ascertain whether there is any substance or not. If proof is delivered then I shall shut up about this and accept that some people can in fact hear music or harmonics with ultra-sonic frequency.

Until such a day occurs I shall remain sceptical and suspect that such claims are in fact confirmation bias combined a little element of the emperor's new "sonic" clothes.

The users of super-tweeters should also be open minded enough to consider the possibility that they could be damaging their hearing if they play  high frequency sounds above 17 kHz at too loud a volume (over 110 db at your ears). You could be damaging your ears and those of your family members without realising it .

http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/crr_pdf/2001/crr01343.pdf

Ultrasonics are used to break down kidney stones and there are even forms of ultrasonic scalpels which are used in surgery. Ultrasonics can do damage.

Why not play safe and just listen to ordinary speakers and save yourself some money into the bargain?  And just wait until there is proof that such super-tweeters work and that they are safe to use.