While the external looks may harken back to a more space-age vibe, I have heard speakers from Vivid Audio sound absolutely amazing. On top of that, we hear at Audio-Head have been on quite a hot streak with our two-way and three-way standmount reviews – so the idea of another tantalizing offering in the two-way category is still most welcome. Vivid has started production on a new design in the market called the Vivid Kaya S12, and is on its way to arriving stateside.
Reducing cabinet vibrations is usually one of the key features in helping to push resolution and clarity that extra mile, and the Vivid Kaya S12 goes about it’s solution to this problem in a different way than most. The “S12” part of the name actually refers to the 12 liters of internal volume of the bean-shaped “Omni-Absorber” casework. Features are borrowed from their GIYA line, and the drivers include a 26mm alloy dome tweeter and a 10cm alloy cone.
From the press release:
The Omni ABSORBER (patented) is a development from the VENTED EXPONENTIALLY TAPERING cabinet developed for GIYA in 2007. The application of this technology in bookshelf form not only addresses vertical modes within the cabinet, but modes in ALL PLANES resulting in the cleanest presentation available today!
The Standard KAYA series finishes of Piano Black, Pearl White, Oyster Matte retail for $6,500/pair with bespoke finishes costing $7,150/pair. There will also be a stand designed specifically for the S12 coming soon, pricing on that accessory is TBA. Expect shipping to start for the US in 6-8 weeks.
More info: Vivid Audio Kaya S12
More specs:
Configuration:
2 way 2 driver system
Cabinet material:
RIMCast Polyurethane
Drive units:
HF: D26 – 26mm tapered tube loaded alloy dome
LF: C100D – 1 x 100mm alloy cone
Bass loading:
Exponentially Tapered Tube enhanced bass reflex
Sensitivity:
87dB @ 2.83VRMS at 1m on axis
Nominal impedance (Ω):
8 Ohm (5,3Ohm Min)
Frequency range (Hz):
45 – 25,000 Hz (-6dB)
First D26 Break Up mode:
44,000 Hz
Harmonic distortion
(2nd and 3rd harmonics):
< 0.5% over frequency range at 1W
Cross over frequencies (Hz):
3.000
Recommended amplifier power:
25W – 125W
Loudspeaker dimensions:
400 mm (H) x 237 mm (W) x 254 mm (D)
Net weight:
6,0 kg (each)