Horn speakers are favored by audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound dynamics and compatibility with tube amplifiers. Analog sound formats truly shine when paired with horn acoustics and single-ended tube amplifiers, which is why we have dedicated our latest ranking to these types of loudspeakers. From Hi-Fi to High End, there is a remarkable selection of speakers available today, and this article will guide you in making the right choice.
7. Shinjitsu Audio Hiro
Upon examining the price of the Shinjitsu Audio Hiro, set at two thousand six hundred US dollars per pair, one might feel compelled to verify the information once more. However, it is indeed a remarkable offering, serving as a gateway to the realm of horn sound. This model features a proprietary main driver along with the new Beyma CD171 FE / PK compression driver, all housed in an optimized horn design. It delivers an impressive frequency range from 32 Hz to 20 kHz (-3 dB), particularly notable for enclosures with a volume of 1.7 cubic feet. With a sensitivity of 93 dB and a stable 8 Ohm impedance, it ensures compatibility with tube amplifiers as low as 3 W, while its dynamic sound is sure to get your feet moving.
6. Lowther Acousta 117
The renowned 115 and 116 models from British Lowther feature a broadband 8″ PM6A driver equipped with alnico magnets and a Voigt diffuser, all housed within a Voigt horn. The essence of the company is evident in every aspect, from the remarkably vibrant and dynamic sound that flows effortlessly, to the impressive sensitivity range of 98-105 dB with a consistent resistance of 8 Ohms. Notably, these relatively compact speakers deliver sound across a frequency range of 35 Hz to 20 kHz, showcasing a true engineering marvel.
5. Klipsch La Scala AL5
The newest iteration of the iconic Klipsch La Scala model, originally launched in 1963, is now available in the AL5 version. This model features a closed cabinet constructed from 25 mm thick MDF, allowing for versatile placement within your listening space, even close to walls. It is a three-way system that includes the K-771 tweeter and a 2” K-55-X compression midrange driver, both equipped with phenolic diffusers and mounted on their own horns. Additionally, it has a rear-facing 15” low-frequency driver with a fiber composite K-33-E diffuser housed in an exponential folded horn. While the bass response is limited to 51 Hz, the impressive sensitivity of 105 dB and exceptional microdynamics create a truly enchanting auditory experience.
4. AER AEROPHONE
The advanced AER AEROFON comes in multiple variants, each distinguished by the drivers employed. The entry-level AEROFON econ boasts a sensitivity of 102 dB, while the premium AEROFON essence, equipped with BD E speakers, nearly sets a world record with a sensitivity of 116 dB! The broadband drivers deliver an extraordinary level of detail, unveiling the nuances of any recording. Additionally, the frequency range of 35 Hz to 80 kHz is particularly remarkable for a design of this size.
3. Avantgarde Acoustic UNO SD
The Avantgarde Acoustic UNO SD speakers are ideally suited for smaller spaces of up to 16 square meters. With a sensitivity rating of 107 dB and an impedance of 18 Ohms, these speakers can perform effectively even with just 10 W of power. They feature a 500 mm spherical midrange horn paired with a 127 mm driver that operates within the frequency range up to 300 Hz. The midrange and high-frequency drivers are equipped with Omega voice coils, which help to lessen the strain on the amplifier. Additionally, the subwoofer incorporates a new 153 mm XB10 driver in a phase-inverted setup, powered by a separate G3-500 amplifier delivering 500 W. This configuration allows the system to reproduce frequencies as low as 18 Hz, resulting in an incredibly captivating sound experience.
2. Acapella LA CAMPANELLA
Acapella LA CAMPANELLA features a state-of-the-art 450 mm hyperspheric horn that spans a remarkable four octaves, surpassing the typical three octaves covered by most horns. This design significantly enhances timbre authenticity and performance coherence, making its acoustic capabilities exceptional. In the low-frequency range, the system utilizes four 6.5″ drivers operating in parallel, enabling it to deliver sound from 25 Hz to 25 kHz with a sensitivity of 93 dB and an impedance of 8 Ohms. It is crucial to ensure proper amplification, with a minimum recommendation of 100 W for optimal performance.
1. Volti Audio Victor
After four years of development, the flagship Volti Audio Vittora features an expanded mid-horn that is expertly designed to complement the horn bass section. The tweeters are strategically positioned in relation to the mid-range section, and the crossover has been enhanced for better performance. The new ELF (Extended Low Frequency) system delivers bass down to 25 Hz, powered by 1 kW amplification and featuring optional 12” to 18” woofers, along with a digital crossover. With a sensitivity of 105 dB, this system is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles.
