German manufacturer Tidal Audio GmbH, unrelated to the streaming service of the same name, has unveiled the AP1, a robust floorstanding active speaker that can only be characterized by superlatives. The company asserts that the AP1 represents the pinnacle of their expertise in electronics and speaker design, culminating in a remarkable new creation. Those who need to inquire about the price are likely unable to afford it.
Tidal Audio AP1: Amplified Performance
The concept for the latest achievement of AP1 originated from the launch of the TIDAL x Bugatti project. The Royale stands out as a premium speaker that is revolutionary in both its design and performance, remaining unmatched even today. This was, of course, the intended outcome. However, this ambition came with a drawback, particularly for the loyal supporters and customers around the globe. The intricate complexity and significant effort involved in its production lead to a more restricted availability, making it challenging to reach a broader audience of music enthusiasts. According to the company, this is where the challenge arose, ultimately resulting in the creation of the AP1.
The AP1 embodies the Royale concept within the classic and recognizable design aesthetic characteristic of all Tidal masterpieces. This loudspeaker is fully active and stands apart from any other engineering design available in the market. Featuring unique speaker drivers paired with distinctive power amplification, the AP1 is engineered for effortless plug-and-play functionality.
Equipped with four omnipolar, long-throw subwoofers that operate at varying crossover frequencies, the AP1 delivers the lowest frequencies with remarkable accuracy. These subwoofers integrate flawlessly with four highly efficient front drivers, which consist of two long-throw woofers, a midrange driver, and a diamond tweeter. Each driver is meticulously designed for its specific frequency range, contributing to the overall sonic character of the AP1.
To achieve optimal positioning and structural stability, all drivers are installed within a sealed enclosure crafted from the latest iteration of the company’s proprietary TIRALIT material. Each driver is contained in a hermetically sealed chamber and is affixed to a constrained-layer sandwich structure composed of aluminum, stainless steel, and TIRALIT. However, this is merely the starting point; the true challenge is in the seamless integration of all components, avoiding the drawbacks associated with conventional active or passive speakers. The Royale has set a precedent that the designers have now built upon in the AP1.
The AP1 distinguishes itself from traditional active loudspeaker designs by employing a distinctive hybrid amplification system that combines various technologies tailored for each frequency range. This approach aligns with the foundational principles that have established these masterpieces as globally renowned. Each signal path is entirely analogue and kept as concise as possible. The design avoids the use of DSP, AD/DA conversion, or equalization to address any shortcomings, as these would only create additional compromises.
The outcome is eight expertly engineered drivers, meticulously positioned and harmoniously integrated to achieve the closest approximation of a single, unobtrusive point source, offering nearly boundless dynamic range. However, in spite of its sophisticated design, the AP1 prioritizes user-friendliness, easily accommodating both compact and expansive environments, whether situated near a wall or in an open space, with just two straightforward adjustments.
