Panphonics elements emit a constant phase plane wave. This causes the on-axis sound pressure level to decrease very slowly with distance. Therefore the elements are ideal for applications requiring higher sound pressure levels at long distances.

At its simplest form, the element may be used in a free field on its own without an enclosure or a reflecting back surface. Alternatively, the sound field emitted by the element can be adjusted by mechanical methods. Under semi-free field conditions, the sound pressure level starts to decrease if the element is located closer than 30 mm from a solid reflecting surface, such as a wall.