(July 29, 2024) Sonus faber says its engineers have used all of the tools at their disposal – advanced acoustic research, modern materials, and various unnamed technological improvements – to put a new spin on its two-way Concertino speaker. First introduced 30 years ago, the speaker's fourth and latest refresh will carry the "Concertino G4" tag and a starting price of $5,000.
One of the G4's more interesting changes comes in the form of materials, where Sonus faber has purposely looked to go green. For example, a cork material deployed internally is derived from a recycling process, and the duct, which is usually made of plastic, is now constructed from a combination of paper and solid wood. The design team even leveraged a patented, plant-based leather alternative material crafted by an Italian startup named Ohoskin. That particular material is created from orange and cactus byproducts.
As a nod to aesthetics possessed by previous models, the G4's side walls are crafted from solid walnut and feature ribbed surfaces, enhancing structural integrity and rigidity without internal bracing. It also maintains the historic trapezoidal shape we've come to expect from Concertino speakers. Internally, the core innovation of the Concertino G4 lies in its central chassis, which is crafted from cork – a material synonymous with collections like Suprema and Sonetto. This marks the first instance of cork being paired with a mid-woofer, as its unique structure allows for precise modeling, limiting internal resonances and reducing the need for additional damping material inside the cabinet.
To mark the 30th Anniversary of the Concertino, Sonus faber is releasing a limited run of 300 pairs of Concertino G4 ‘Maestro’ special editions. These feature a brass plaque with progressive numbering applied on the walnut side panel of the speaker.
Look for the Concertino G4 to begin shipping in October 2024. A separate dedicated stand will also be available, priced at $1,500 per pair.
Key Design Elements
- 1” silk dome tweeter with an aluminum ring enclosure and D.A.D. technology
- 5” long-throw paper pulp mid-woofer with aluminum ring and an organic basket
- Rear reflex duct output crafted out of walnut wood
- Binding posts featuring a brass nameplate and wooden pull rod posts
- Simplified crossover design in line with a Phase-Coherent philosophy
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