1*8" +1"CD build

George, I’d definitely listen to them first. The big advantage of the 4 by 3” is the simplicity of the set up. Tony and myself had discussed this type of design because my wife had been threatening to do some gigs on her own. I was looking at systems for her that were light, simple to set up (active crossovers and amp racks need not apply), and would reinforce voice and acoustic guitar. 100dB @ 1m would be more than adequate. The gigs never materialised, so I never pursued the idea beyond “something like this might work”. Tony did, and the next thing I knew he was bringing the prototype round to test with my sub. I think it exceeded both our expectations.

That said, a more conventional design might be better suited to what you need. You need to decide exactly what aspects of the design/performance are important to you and which aspects can be compromised.

If you are arranging to audition the 4 by 3” with Tony, if it is convenient I can let you listen to the BMS coaxes too.

The picture below gives a comparison of the box sizes I use. Left to right, Eminence 10” coax, RCF 10” with B&C 250 on tractrix horn, PD 8” with BMS 4524 on oblate spheroid horn, 8” BMS coax.