When it comes to high-fidelity audio, Swiss brand Piega has long been synonymous with exquisite design and innovative engineering, particularly their signature coaxial ribbon drivers and seamless aluminum cabinets. The recently updated Piega Coax 411 Gen2 loudspeaker has been turning heads, and Hi-Fi News, a trusted voice in audio reviews, has weighed in with their verdict. So, what did they find? Let's dive into the key takeaways and see what makes Piega Coax 411 Gen2 different from its ancestoral version Piega Coax 411.
A Design That Demands Attention
Right off the bat, the Coax 411 Gen2 makes a visual statement. Hi-Fi News highlights its elegantly shaped, brushed aluminum cabinet, a hallmark of Piega's design philosophy. This isn't just for looks; the extruded aluminum, coupled with Piega's "Tension Improve Module 2" (TIM2) technology, creates an incredibly rigid and low-resonance enclosure. A quick knuckle rap, as mentioned in some reviews, reportedly results in a satisfyingly dull thud, indicating excellent damping.
The speaker's compact dimensions (around 45cm high and 25kg each) belie its substantial build quality, making it a solid and visually striking addition to any room. Piega also offers a range of anodized finishes beyond the classic silver, allowing for further personalization.
The Heart of the Sound: Coaxial Ribbon Drivers
The real magic in the Coax 411 Gen2 lies in its proprietary C112+ coaxial ribbon driver. This unique design positions the tweeter and midrange driver symmetrically on a single plane, creating a "point source" for sound. Hi-Fi News emphasizes that this globally unique architecture results in Phenomenal Time and Impulse Response, Meaning the speaker is incredibly fast and precise in reproducing musical signals; and Natural and Vibrant Sound Diversity: Allowing for a clear, coherent, and immersive soundstage.
This coaxial ribbon driver is complemented by a 160mm UHQD (Ultra High Quality Definition) woofer, developed in collaboration with renowned manufacturer SEAS. The Gen2 iteration also benefits from a larger cabinet volume compared to its predecessor, promising a more full-bodied and dynamic bass response.
Sonic Performance: What to Expect
According to Hi-Fi News's assessment, the Coax 411 Gen2 delivers a sound that is as refined as its aesthetics. Key aspects of its performance include:
• Exceptional Clarity and Detail: The ribbon technology, with its ultra-light membrane, allows for precise tracking of delicate music signals, revealing fine details in recordings.
• Precise Stereo Imaging: The point-source design contributes to a remarkably stable and holographic soundstage, placing instruments and vocals accurately in space.
• Smooth and Uncoloured Tonal Balance: The speaker maintains an even-handed and balanced presentation across the frequency range, avoiding harshness, particularly in the treble, which can sometimes be an issue with ribbon tweeters. Voices, in particular, are rendered cleanly and naturally.
• Respectable Bass for its Size: Despite its compact form, the 411 Gen2 delivers surprisingly deep and full bass, balancing well with the crisp highs. While it won't "flap your trousers" like a much larger floorstander, it's impressive for a bookshelf speaker.
The review suggests that while the Coax 411 Gen2 handles pop material well, it truly shines with naturally recorded acoustic jazz and classical music, where its ability to convey subtle nuances and atmospheric details comes to the fore.
The Verdict: Quality Comes at a Price
Hi-Fi News concludes that the Piega Coax 411 Gen2 is a highly attractive proposition for audiophiles who appreciate both style and substance. While acknowledging its premium price tag, the consensus is that you truly get what you pay for in terms of sophisticated design, innovative technology, and a delightful, high-resolution audio performance. It's a speaker that not only looks stunning but also sounds exceptionally good, setting a high bar for bookshelf loudspeakers in its class.
If you're in the market for a compact, high-end speaker that delivers Swiss precision in both form and function, the Piega Coax 411 Gen2, as highlighted by Hi-Fi News, is certainly one to consider for your listening space. Read the original Hi-Fi News review here.
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