Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined: A Return to Roots with a Modern Twist
Audiovector has taken a bold step by revisiting its heritage while incorporating cutting-edge technology with the Trapeze Reimagined. This loudspeaker isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the original Trapeze from 1979—it’s a statement of how far Audiovector has come in terms of design, sound quality, and innovation. With its striking aesthetics, advanced engineering, and thrilling performance, the Trapeze Reimagined offers a unique proposition in the high-end loudspeaker market.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Thrillingly direct, cohesive, and unified sound
- Superbly built with premium finishes
- Bold, unconventional design that stands out
Cons
- At this price, some competitors offer a more expansive soundstage
- The bold design may not suit every taste
Key Features
Freedom Grounding Concept
The Trapeze Ri incorporates Audiovector’s Freedom Grounding Concept, which minimizes distortion caused by the interaction between the drivers. This feature ensures a cleaner and more precise sound.
Damping Flexibility
A three-position switch on the back of the speaker allows for adjustments to match the damping factor of your amplifier. This flexibility ensures optimal performance regardless of your setup.
Design: A Singular Aesthetic
The Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined is unapologetically bold in its appearance. Each speaker is designed as a mirror image of the other, creating a distinct left and right channel. With its angular, geometric form and compact dimensions of 875 x 435 x 420mm, the Trapeze Ri is a visual statement.
Finish Options
The speakers are available in four stunning finishes:
– Black Ash
– White Silk
– Italian Walnut
– Nordic Oak
Audiovector also offers custom piano finishes for an additional cost, allowing you to personalize the speakers to your liking.
Build Quality
The build quality is exceptional, with flawless wood veneers, crisp edges, and premium silver trim at the base. Even the speaker terminals and driver surrounds exude a high-end feel.
Specifications
- Type: 3-way design with isobaric bass system
- Frequency Response: 23Hz – 53kHz
- Tweeter: 3800mm² Air Motion Transformer (AMT)
- Midrange Driver: 130mm treated paper cone
- Bass Drivers: 300mm and 200mm treated paper cones in an isobaric configuration
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Sensitivity: 88dB/W/m
The AMT tweeter is a highlight, offering expansive dispersion and low distortion. The isobaric bass system provides deep, controlled low frequencies, while the midrange driver ensures clarity and responsiveness.
Sound Quality: A Thrilling Experience
The Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined delivers a sound that is forceful, poised, and incredibly detailed. Whether you’re listening to classical, jazz, or electronic music, these speakers excel across the board.
High Frequencies
The AMT tweeter delivers treble that is bright but never harsh, even at high volumes. It captures fine details and dynamic nuances with ease, making high-frequency-centric tracks like Laurie Anderson’s Let X=X a delight.
Midrange
The midrange is where the Trapeze Ri truly shines. Vocals are rendered with exceptional clarity and natural tonality. Tracks like Arooj Aftab’s Last Night feel intimate and lifelike, with every subtle inflection captured beautifully.
Bass
Thanks to the isobaric bass system, the low frequencies are powerful, precise, and deeply extended. Rhythmic tracks maintain their momentum and energy, while bass-heavy genres like dub and electronic are delivered with authority.
Soundstage
While the soundstage is cohesive and well-layered, it’s slightly less expansive than some competitors in this price range. However, the pinpoint imaging and separation more than make up for this minor shortcoming.
Who Should Buy the Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined?
For the Aesthetics
If you appreciate bold, unconventional design and want your speakers to make a visual statement, the Trapeze Ri is a perfect choice.
For the Audiophile
These speakers are for those who demand precise, dynamic, and detailed sound reproduction. However, to fully appreciate their capabilities, you’ll need equally high-quality source equipment and amplification.
Final Thoughts
The Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined is far more than a nostalgic homage to the original Trapeze. It’s a modern masterpiece that combines innovative technology with striking design and exceptional sound quality. While it may not offer the most expansive soundstage in its class, its cohesive and thrilling performance makes it a standout choice for discerning audiophiles.
For those willing to invest in high-end audio, the Trapeze Ri is a speaker that delivers on its promises—and then some.
Recommended Accessories
To get the most out of the Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined, consider the following accessories:
- Audiophile Speaker Cables
High-quality cables are essential for optimal performance. Check out options like audiophile speaker cables. -
High-End Amplifiers
Pair the Trapeze Ri with a premium amplifier for the best results. Explore options like high-end amplifiers. -
Speaker Stands or Isolation Pads
Enhance stability and reduce vibrations with speaker stands or isolation pads.
FAQs
Is there a grille to cover the drivers?
Yes, a magnetically attached grille is included, covering the entire front baffle. However, given the striking design, you may not want to use it.
Can I customize the finish?
Yes, Audiovector offers custom piano finishes for an additional cost.
What amplifiers work best with the Trapeze Ri?
The Trapeze Ri is compatible with most high-quality amplifiers, thanks to its 8-ohm impedance and 88dB sensitivity. Pair it with a powerful, clean-sounding amp for the best results.
With its unique blend of heritage and innovation, the Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined is a loudspeaker that demands attention—both visually and sonically. While it comes at a premium price, its performance and craftsmanship justify the investment for serious audiophiles.
