There was a time when you had to choose between the sharply modern look of high tech electronics, and the rich, classic aesthetic of vintage audio gear. But now, thanks to speakers like the QuarterWave, a curvy wooden masterpiece with both a rustic look, and convenient wireless streaming, we no longer live in that cruel world.
With its striking design, the QuarterWave might win many listeners over on looks alone. But there’s much more beneath the surface to bring you in for a closer look. The speaker’s sleek glass skylight offers a glimpse into the cabinet’s truly unique interior, which leverages a layered design, and acoustically sculpted twists and turns to guide the sound waves into a sympathetic resonance, designed to prevent interference, and limit distortion.
SmartWood, the company that designed the QuarterWave, claims its design sculpts the sound that reflects off the back wall of the speaker to work in time with the more recent vibrations resonating from the back of its drivers, producing “constructive interference” for a “loud and undistorted live sound.” It’s all part of the acoustic plan – the speaker just happens to look gorgeous doing it.
To drive the sound, the QuarterWave utilizes a pair of 2.5-inch drivers, powered by a two channel Class-D amplifier for 30 watts each. Bluetooth 4.0 is the mode of wireless streaming, allowing users to control the speaker easily from any smartphone or tablet, though the rotary dial on the front may be more fun to use for volume control. Alternate inputs include an RCA analog input, and a 3.5mm Aux input. The speaker also sports an RCA pre-amp output to connect a QuarterWave bass speaker currently in the works.
The QuarterWave is now engaged in its second run on Kickstarter, having been unsuccessful the first time out. However, with a slim goal of only $10K, the speaker has already raised two thirds of its goal, with over 50 days left to go. And we saved the best for last: Originally priced at $500, the QuarterWave can now be procured for a meager $200. Even if the speaker delivers on a portion of its claims, that’s a seriously affordable price.
If you’re looking to spruce up your living room for your eyes and ears, you can pledge to get your QuarterWave in either Natural, or Espresso at its Kickstarter page today.
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