Sonus Faber used a chance to show their newest version of the Aida loudspeaker, in the largest display room at the Warsaw National Stadium location of Audio Video Show 2017.
While outward appearances seem nearly identical to the previous model that debuted in 2011, it’s the internal changes that are of consequence for readers as Sonus faber has spared no expense in revamping their flagship model.
Starting from the system, that is “3 and 2/3 way” with Stealth Ultraflex”, which allows better bass extension while minimizing distortion and eliminating spurious vibration coming from the air passage inside the reflex duct.
Sonus Faber Aida
The typical lyra shape enclosure, as in the previous edition, is complimented by the “Anima Legata” system, the “Tuned Mass Dampers” and a revision of the special “Bow spring” suspension, which contains the “Zero Vibration Transmission” system, all designed to keep both the loudspeaker and the musical environment free from unwanted resonance and vibration.
Perhaps the most radical among the new changes is the selection of all-new driver systems. The tweeter is the “D.A.D. Arrow Point” H28 XTR-04, first used in the Sonus faber Lilium and also in the most recent Homage Tradition Collection.
Sonus Faber Aida
The midrange is also promoted to a M18 XTR-04 enhanced with the avional- gunmetal basket, the most advanced midrange driver in the entire Sonus faber catalogue. This new combination of tweeter and midrange creates the “Voice of Sonus faber”, the iconic configuration of driver technology capable of maintaining the effortless, warm and involving timbre that has become a trademark of the Arcugnano-based company.
Sonus Faber Aida
Completing the new driver arsenal are the new specifically designed woofers: W22 XTR-12 complete with all-new powerful Neodymium magnet motors and SW32 XTR-08 infra-woofer, probably the craziest subwoofer ever designed in Sonus faber, equipped with Nano Carbon sandwich cone and a long-throw 4’’ voice- coils, powered by a Neodymium magnet motor.
The new Aida is using only Neodymium powered transducers for reaching new pinnacles in terms of speed and dynamic.
Sonus Faber Aida
Inherited from “The Sonus faber” cost-no- object project is the patented “Sound Field Shaper” technology – a unique system of attenuated rear-facing drivers allowing precise control of the dimensionality and perceived size of the sound-stage. This system is upgraded further utilizing the latest tweeter and midrange: “Arrow Point” DAD 29XTR2 and M8XTR, as well as a complete redesign of the crossover network.
New Aida is available to purchase starting in December for “82.000€ + VAT = $130,000” according to the representative.
