SME is a British manufacturer of high-end turntables and tonearms.

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As the tech world turns its eyes to the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, LG Electronics is already making waves with its pre-event teaser of the DukeBox by LG Labs. This innovative device is not just a new product but a bold statement in the fusion of vintage and modern technology.

The DukeBox, an audiophile's delight, marries the warm, nostalgic sound of vacuum tubes with the sleek, futuristic aesthetic of transparent OLED technology. This combination promises a multi-sensory experience that's as much about visual flair as it is about audio quality.

Designed to be more than just a music player, the DukeBox is equipped with front-facing speakers at the bottom and a 360-degree speaker at the top, ensuring an enveloping audio experience. But the experience doesn't stop with sound. The DukeBox's transparent OLED screen opens up possibilities for playing movies or enhancing the ambiance with visuals, like a cozy, crackling fireplace.

As the tech community buzzes with anticipation, details about the DukeBox's pricing and availability remain under wraps. LG Labs, known for its innovative approaches, has yet to unveil the full capabilities of this intriguing device. As CES 2024 approaches, attendees and tech enthusiasts worldwide are eager for a firsthand look at what could be the next big thing in home entertainment.

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LG DukeBox at CES 2024 Brings Vintage Charm with Modern OLED Technology

Discover LG DukeBox's blend of old-school vacuum tube audio and sleek OLED tech.


Subwoofers are one of those elements in an audio setup that can provoke strong opinions among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Some people see them as essential, while others consider them an extravagant accessory. Whether you're living in a sprawling American home or a cozy Victorian terrace in the UK, the topic of subwoofers is bound to raise eyebrows. This article aims to explore the various perspectives and insights on the 'subwoofer obsession.'

## The Science of Sound

Subwoofers are designed to handle the lower frequency range, essentially producing deep bass notes that many speakers struggle to generate. However, contrary to popular belief, they are not designed to 'play loud' but to 'play low.' The larger the subwoofer, the more capable it is of reproducing these lower frequencies.

### Do Size and Sound Correlate?

It's a misconception to think that larger subwoofers are automatically better at playing low frequencies. The design and parameters of the subwoofer, not its size, determine how effectively it can handle lower frequencies. For example, it's entirely possible for a smaller 6.5" subwoofer to produce a flat response down to 28 Hz, contrary to the notion that bigger is always better.

## The Neighborly Debate

While lower frequencies have a longer range and can potentially disturb neighbors, it's not a given. Many people have managed to incorporate a subwoofer into a more urban living situation without issues. Having a conversation with your neighbors and being considerate of timing and volume can go a long way in maintaining a peaceful coexistence.

### Getting the Settings Right

Properly setting up a subwoofer can be crucial. The crossover frequency and volume dial settings can affect not just how the subwoofer sounds but also how it interacts with your main speakers. Done right, the bass should fill out the room without overwhelming the mid and high frequencies.

## The Audiophile Spectrum

The audiophile community seems to have three main categories: those who live for bass, those who can't live without the highs, and those who are somewhere in between. Preferences in bass, midrange, and treble frequencies can often dictate the need for a subwoofer in one's audio setup. Some people find that their taste leans more toward a balanced, 'natural' bass, as opposed to an overwhelming, booming sound.

### Expanding Your Experience

Subwoofers can bring added dimensions to your music and movie experiences. Some songs and movies include low-frequency effects that can only be fully enjoyed with a subwoofer. Moreover, adding a subwoofer can allow your main speakers to perform better in the midrange by reducing their workload on the lower frequencies.

## Housing Conditions and Cultural Differences

Housing conditions often play a part in whether or not a subwoofer is a feasible addition to your setup. In larger American homes, adding a subwoofer might be easier than in a British terraced house. Cultural attitudes toward sound and bass may also vary, with some people prioritizing a 'British Sound,' which is often seen as more bass-light and polite, while others may lean toward a more aggressive, bass-heavy 'American' sound.

## In Conclusion

Subwoofers are a subject of great discussion and debate for good reason. Whether you consider them essential or extravagant, their role in shaping an audio experience cannot be denied. By understanding the intricacies involved in subwoofer setup and sound preference, one can make an informed decision, striking a balance between personal taste, technical necessity, and neighborly consideration.

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The Subwoofer Debate: Do You Really Need One?

Is adding a subwoofer to your audio system overkill or a sound investment? 


Two iconic Italian brands, Sonus faber and Maserati, have joined forces to deliver an audio experience as luxurious as a cruise in a GranTurismo. Enter the Amati Folgore: a special edition speaker designed to marry the epitome of sound fidelity with Italian craftsmanship. This collaboration extends beyond just an audio equipment release; it signifies a harmonious blend of innovation, sustainability, and acoustic brilliance.

## Unparalleled Listening Experience

The Amati Folgore represents Sonus faber's unmatched dedication to sound quality. The speaker is a fifth-generation model in the Amati series and is color-coded in Rame Folgore, akin to the Maserati GranTurismo. The intention is not merely to create a speaker but an "unparalleled listening experience," reflecting the grandeur of the Maserati GranTurismo.

## The Genius Behind Materials

The speaker's front panel is made of ECONYL®, a unique material derived from recycled nylon waste. This eco-friendly material has also been used in Maserati's GranTurismo Folgore, marking it the first time ECONYL® is used in a car. The material undergoes an aesthetic transformation, achieving a highly matte surface with a parametric design, all thanks to a specialized laser processing technique.

## Seamless and Refined Aesthetic

The speaker cabinet exhibits the Maserati trident and is dressed in the same GT Folgore finish as the car. The Rame Folgore color is a result of meticulous research on the interaction between light and color. Influenced by modern architecture, especially the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the design evolves, capturing different hues as it interacts with the lighting of the surrounding environment.

## Technical Mastery

But what's a gorgeous speaker without outstanding sound? The Amati Folgore is not just a pretty face; it's a marvel of acoustic engineering. Its 3.5-way speaker system is finely tuned, with a 28mm tweeter, a 150mm midrange, and two 220mm woofers. This produces a frequency response range from 28 Hz to 35,000 Hz, and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms.

## Sustainability Meets Craftsmanship

Sonus faber is known for its commitment to the art of sound engineering. Each speaker undergoes rigorous testing, followed by hand tuning to perfect its natural sound. This commitment to acoustic purity has been carried through into the development of the Amati Folgore Special Edition, creating a listening experience that not only pleases the ear but also respects the planet.

## An Iconic Collaboration

The Amati Folgore represents a unification of Maserati's boldness with Sonus faber's history of technical innovation. The Maserati logo is thoughtfully integrated within Sonus faber’s renowned VOS (Voice of Sonus faber), symbolizing the unity of two iconic Italian brands.

## Conclusion: The Future of High-Quality Audio

While the Amati Folgore is already an incredible milestone, it is just the beginning of an exciting adventure into the future of high-fidelity audio. As both brands continue to push boundaries, audio enthusiasts can anticipate more breathtaking innovations in the future.

A Maserati-inspired high-fidelity floor-standing speaker by Sonus Faber, part of the Amati Folgore collection, showcasing a sleek dark finish.

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A close-up view of the top corner of a Sonus Faber speaker, featuring a delicately engraved emblem resembling a stylized triad of arrows or sails

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"A detailed view of a Sonus Faber speaker showcasing its intricately designed front panel. Prominently featured is a uniquely shaped mid-range driver with the signature 'SF' logo at its center

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Pair of Sonus Faber Amati Folgore speakers showcasing Italian high-fidelity craftsmanshi

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Maserati Limited Edition Sonus Faber speaker, made in Italy

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Sonus faber speaker detail showcasing the woven pattern and branded emblem.

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Italian Elegance and Hi-End: The Sonus Faber & Maserati Amati Folgore

Experience unparalleled luxury and extraordinary sound quality with the special edition Amati Folgore speakers by Sonus faber, in collaboration with Maserati. Explore the craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainable materials that make this speaker a masterpiece of audio engineering.

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Interesting articles

LG DukeBox at CES 2024 Brings Vintage Charm with Modern OLED Technology

The Subwoofer Debate: Do You Really Need One?

Italian Elegance and Hi-End: The Sonus Faber & Maserati Amati Folgore