Aiming for Better Loudspeaker Designs in Voice Coil July 2024

In this July 2024 issue of Voice Coil, Vance Dickason introduces a new article series about Outboard DSP, Mike Klasco explores Diamond Coatings for Speakers, there is an updated directory of Adhesives, Coatings, Sealants, High-Tech Thin Films, Converters, and Dispensing Equipment vendors, and Claus Futtrup writes about the IB4 Bass Reflex Alignment. Vance Dickason’s Test Bench characterizes the new Scan-Speak 15W/8534T00 5.5” woofer, and D3404/606200 Metamodal TPCD tweeter.

Another week, and another European manufacturer announces a new WiSA HT wireless product launch. French hifi speaker manufacturer Triangle announced its classic-looking but cutting-edge Capella connected active speakers with DSP. The Capella is actually a fully integrated system, with complete wired and wireless connectivity, centralized in a Stereo Hub. The bookshelf speakers feature a horn-loaded tweeter with a magnesium dome, and a 6" paper cone woofer. Triangle sells the Capella system with optional speaker stands, a calibration microphone, and even a matching turntable with built-in preamp.

Andover Audio launched the SpeakEasy 4, an easy-to-set-up, powered stereo speaker system with built-in phono preamp ($399/pair). For a company that launched its original business focused on the vinyl revival, it makes sense to also offer the company’s first separate speaker model that connects to a turntable, aside from also offering a host of digital and analog inputs, including HDMI ARC to connect to a TV and wireless Bluetooth.

WiSA Association announced that Danish manufacturer Buchardt Audio's Sub10 low-profile subwoofer has earned WiSA HT Interoperability Certification. The new high-performance, long throw sub strengthens Buchardt's WiSA Certified wireless speaker catalog which includes the A500 monitor, the Anniversary 10 monitor and the A700 tower and provides enthusiasts with a versatile and powerful subwoofer to solidify the lower octaves of their home listening experience.

At InfoComm 2024 in Las Vegas, Meyer Sound is debuting its ULTRA-X80, the most powerful member of the ULTRA family of point source loudspeakers. The new flagship of the series, the ULTRA-X80 is a versatile design that draws on both the acoustic lineage of the ULTRA family, including the ULTRA-X40 and ULTRA-X20, and technology innovations behind the brand's latest PANTHER large-format linear line array element. A new compact but powerful active solution that is simple-to-deploy.

James Croft has fun reviewing a Controlled Passive Radiator patent awarded to inventor Tony Doy, on behalf of Sonos (Santa Barbara, CA.) The patent details multiple techniques to control a passive radiator, including a device buffering successive samples of audio content and predictive techniques on active designs. With this extensive review, Voice Coil readers will gain a valuable perspective on key possible innovation areas. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, October 2018.

Electro-Voice claims to have the world's #1 pro-audio loudspeaker in this category with the original ZLX series, and now announced Generation 2. With more than a million units delivered, the new ZLX G2 series builds on its predecessor's winning formula with increased output, frequency range, durability and connectivity – along with new features including remote control/mixing and stereo streaming. All for the same affordable price.

Q Acoustics introduced the M40 powered micro-tower wireless audio system, another attempt from the British audio specialist to offer a convenient and cost-effective way to fill any home with powerful, high-quality sound. Following the success of its M20 HD wireless audio system, Q Acoustics brings its expertise and latest acoustic technologies to a more compact, fully integrated audio system.

With a visit to Dutch & Dutch, Jan Didden unveils the journey of this innovative speaker manufacturer from The Netherlands. This company, founded in 2014, has so far achieved remarkable success with a single product designed to break the vicious cycle of speakers and room acoustics. The Dutch & Dutch 8c is a no-compromise active speaker designed to work together with the acoustics of the listening room.

Swiss luxury audio manufacturer Goldmund, a name synonymous with precision and opulence, introduced its latest "entry-level" marvel, the Melos Active Wireless Loudspeakers. These compact wireless speakers offer everything a proud owner would expect from this type of design, plus the exclusive privileges of the "harmonious union of advanced technology and meticulous craftsmanship" that Goldmund offers.