Focal Chooses SPARK Microsystems' UWB Wireless Technology for New Diva Utopia Speakers

October 2 2024, 09:10
Focal introduced the new Diva Utopia to the world, its first wireless, connected, active loudspeaker. This design is the result of five years of development by French and British engineering teams from Focal Naim, and represents the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of hifi to unprecedented levels. The new Diva Utopia speakers combine Naim electronics, the latest UWB wireless technologies from SPARK Microsystems in the ultimate vision of the Focal Utopia philosophy.
 

To realize this vision of audio progress and innovation, Focal trusted SPARK Microsystems, the Canadian company that is pioneering wireless audio applications over Ultra-Wideband (UWB). SPARK's SR1020 wireless transceiver leverages UWB technology to supply the data transmission between the two speakers, delivering uncompressed audio with ultra-low latency that sets a new standard for wireless audio performance.

SPARK’s UWB connectivity allows for a seamless wireless connection between the two Diva Utopia loudspeakers, maintaining a stable and lossless signal at 24-bit/96kHz. For the first time, the advanced technology fully eliminates the need for wires while preserving the quality of sound typically associated with wired connections.

"Our collaboration with Focal showcases the advantages of SPARK’s UWB in delivering high-resolution audio without the limitations of traditional wireless technologies," says Julie Delamarre, SPARK Microsystems, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales. "The Diva Utopia is a great example of how a UWB wireless connection ensures every note is transmitted with the highest fidelity."
With support for major streaming platforms and wireless protocols, the Diva Utopia speakers also offer a versatile and intuitive user experience, which SPARK's UWB technology enhances by enabling multiroom configurations, making it easier than ever to integrate the Diva Utopia into a complete home music ecosystem.

"The Diva Utopia represents a new era in high-fidelity audio. By integrating SPARK Microsystems' UWB technology, we have created a loudspeaker that not only delivers exceptional sound quality but also offers the freedom and flexibility that today’s consumers demand," adds Rejean Bedel, Focal & Naim, Group Marketing Manager. "This partnership is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and redefining the listening experience."

Wireless High-End
The new Focal Diva Utopia speakers are a 3-way bass-reflex design that is simple to install and use, with no need for cables to connect the pair or external amplification. For convenience, Focal's first connected, wireless active loudspeakers can be completely controlled via a dedicated app, the supplied remote control, or through voice assistants.

"Our primary goal for Diva Utopia was to create a user-friendly experience without compromising on performance," states Cédrick Boutonet, Focal & Naim CEO. "We can confidently say that we have succeeded.”
 

Besides the UWB connection, the Diva Utopia built-in streamer also supports Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast and UPnP protocols for impressive connectivity and access to a wide range of platforms: Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, or QQ Music (in China). The loudspeakers seamlessly integrate into the complete Focal and Naim ecosystem, allowing users to create a home multiroom configuration that can be controlled from the dedicated app. It is also easy to connect the system to a television, or it can be linked to various other inputs, including vinyl turntables. And the Diva Utopia's can also be paired with home automation systems.

Created using Focal’s unique audio expertise the Focal Utopia design feature patented 'W' cone woofers, and the famous beryllium 'M'-profile tweeter, powered by 400-watts of Naim amplification and a new streaming architecture (up to 32-bit/348kHz). In designing the Diva Utopia speakers, Focal perfected every single aspect and refined every single detail. The bass speaker drivers are placed on the sides, and the floating side panels sit behind a signature divide that features a backlit logo.

The Focal Diva Utopia speakers retail for USD $39,999 (pair) and will be available exclusively through qualified stores of the Focal Powered by Naim network.
www.sparkmicro.com
www.focalnaimamerica.com
www.naimaudio.com | www.focal.com
 
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About Joao Martins
Since 2013, Joao Martins leads audioXpress as editor-in-chief of the US-based magazine and website, the leading audio electronics, audio product development and design publication, working also as international editor for Voice Coil, the leading periodical for... Read more

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