(July 7, 2022) Recognizing five decades of speaker design, PSB speakers has launched the Passif 50 Anniversary Edition Standmount Loudspeaker. Loaded with design and technology elements born from 50 years of audio research, with a nod to the brand's 1974 issued Passif II, the Passif 50 is scheduled to begin shipping this coming September. And, as a thank you to loyal buyers, the first 500 units will contain a handwritten letter from Founder and Chief Designer Paul Barton along with an offer to receive a gift pack that includes a cotton canvas backpack, double-walled water bottle, and commemorative keychain.
The Passif 50's open-grained walnut veneer cabinet, magnetically attached woven cloth grilles, and dedicated stands drip with 1970s flair, but PSB was careful to ensure the speaker's build quality and materials align with modern standards. Other unique embellishments include a pull tab on the front grille, which sports a retro PSB logo originally hand-drawn by Paul in his high school geography class, and a rear-panel plaque adorned by a maple leaf with an inscription that reads, “Passif 50 – 1972-2022.”
PSB says the speaker carries flagship-grade components, including a 1″ titanium dome tweeter and a 6.5″ woofer and 8″ passive radiator combo. The titanium dome tweeter employs a powerful neodymium magnet and ferrofluid damping, for higher output, improved power handling, and reduced distortion. A phase plug in front of the tweeter’s dome directs the tweeter’s output to ensure a wide and consistent dispersion well beyond the traditional listening window. And a felt pad surrounding the tweeter minimizes edge diffraction for improved transparency and more stable imaging.
The woofer and passive radiator have cast aluminum baskets that resist flexing, and filleted rubber surrounds that dampen cone resonances, resulting in smoother response and reduced distortion. PSB says considerable time and engineering were invested in refining the interaction between the woofer and the passive radiator. The result is a state of desired balance of their opposing forces.
A cabinet complete with mitered joints and bracing makes for a stable sonic environment. And thanks to dual five-way binding posts, the Passif 50 can be bi-wired or bi-amped.
The Passif 50 can be pre-ordered during August, shipping with an MSRP of $2499 (US) and $3299 (CD). For more details and ordering information, go to psbspeakers.com.
