Luxury Italian loudspeaker maker, Sonus faber today announced the Concertino G4 stand-mount loudspeakers starting at $5,000/pair. As the fourth edition of the brand’s iconic Concertino line, they exude high-quality Italian craftsmanship in a two-way passive high-end loudspeaker.
Concertino G4
The company says the design of Concertino G4 utilizes learnings from advanced acoustic research, cutting-edge materials and technological improvements to introduce a simple, yet profound product. Building on the success of previous Concertino models, this edition blends technology with the timeless principles of natural sound and artisanal quality – even leveraging a patented, plant-based leather alternative material from Italian startup Ohoskin in its finishings.
As a celebration of the 30th Anniversary from the first Concertino introduction, Sonus faber is releasing a limited run of 300 pairs of Concertino G4 ‘Maestro’ special editions, featuring a brass plaque with progressive numbering applied on the walnut side panel of the speaker.
This special edition embodies the rich artisanal and acoustic tradition of the renowned Italian brand. Just like in the Italian artisan workshops of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, where an apprentice worked under the guidance of a master for years before becoming a journeyman and eventually aspiring to the title of master through the creation of a ‘masterpiece’, the Maestro Edition represents the culmination of decades of experience, craftsmanship, and innovation.
These speakers are not only a tribute to tradition but also a demonstration of excellence achieved through a meticulous process of design and production. Similar to the master musicians of the past, who directed, taught, and composed with dedication, the master artisans of Sonus faber have poured all their knowledge and passion into every detail of the Maestro Edition. Each speaker is a work of art that skillfully combines refined aesthetics and superior sound quality, offering an unparalleled acoustic experience that reflects the brand’s philosophy.
Thus, the Maestro Edition from Sonus faber represents not just a product, but a legacy that celebrates Italian artisanal tradition and excellence in audio production, embodying the true meaning of ‘maestro’ in the contemporary context.
Materials
Sonus faber has placed a strong emphasis on reducing the use of non-sustainable materials in this project. Significantly, the cork used is derived from a recycling process, and the duct, usually made of plastic, is now constructed from a combination of paper and solid wood.
The core innovation of the Concertino G4 lies in its central chassis, which is crafted from cork – a material synonymous with collections like Suprema and Sonetto. As the first instance of cork being paired with a midwoofer, the construction of Concertino G4 marks a significant advancement in audio, while maintaining the historic trapezoidal shape as the previous Concertino models. Its unique structure allows for precise modeling, limiting internal resonances and reducing the need for additional damping material inside the cabinet.
As a nod to the speaker’s traditional aesthetics, the side walls are crafted from solid walnut and feature ribbed surfaces, enhancing structural integrity and rigidity without internal bracing.
Recycled textile and a plant-based material produced by Ohoskin cover the cork structure and front baffle, allowing Concertino G4 to offer luxurious materials with sustainability in mind.
By partnering with Ohoskin, Sonus faber was able to incorporate 100% ‘Made-in-Italy’ coated textile fabric made from orange and cactus byproducts, providing a high-quality, vegan, and sustainable alternative for audio lovers everywhere.
Additional key material features include:
- An aluminum ring enclosing the silk dome tweeter
- An aluminum ring enclosing the midwoofer
- A reflex duct output crafted out of walnut wood
- Binding posts featuring a brass nameplate and wooden pull rod posts
Key Features
True to the tradition of Sonus faber’s first 15 years, the Concertino G4 is a 2-way speaker featuring:
- 1” silk dome tweeter with D.A.D. technology
- 5” long-throw paper pulp midwoofer with an organic basket
- A reflex duct positioned at the back of the cabinet, preventing front turbulence
- Simplified crossover design in line with a Phase-Coherent philosophy, ensuring accurate phase alignment and a more defined, three-dimensional image
Specifications
System | 2.0 way Vented Cork enclosure design |
Loudspeakers | Tweeter: 1.1″ DAD™ Arrow Point Midwoofer: 1 x 5.25″ Ferrite Magnet |
Crossover Points | 1700Hz |
Frequency Response | 60 -25,000 Hz |
Sensitivity | 85dB |
Nominal Impedence | 4Ω |
Recommended Amplifier Power | 30 W – 150 W |
Product Dimensions (WxHxD) | Without Stands: (per speaker) 21.4 x 31.4 x 29.6 cm 8.4 x 12.4 x 11.6 inch With Stands: 27 x 104.4 x 32 cm 10.6 x 41 x 12.6 inch |
Dimensions with Packaging | Speaker Box Dimension: 52.5 x 46.0 x 41.5 cm Stand Box Dimension: 42.7 x 42.1 x 82.6 cm |
Weight (each) | Speakers: 6.6 Kg / 14.5 lbs Stand: 14.5 Kg / 32 lbs |
Cabinet Construction | Cork Enclosure wrapped by leather, Solid Wood side panels |
Stand Design
For an additional $1,500/pair, Sonus faber offers a dedicated stand, designed to complement the Concertino G4’s aesthetic. The stand is derived from an IPE 120X64 beam to retain proportions and provide a structural support while its walnut veneer inserts add a touch of elegance.
Initial Thoughts
There is no question that the Concertino G4 represents a rather striking looking modernization of what was one of the Italian manufacturer’s most underrated loudspeakers. The original Concertino was a fun loudspeaker that was beautifully crafted and rather affordable considering its production in Italy with high quality materials.
The Concertino G4 is a more impressive looking loudspeaker and we love the new dedicated stands as well.
The price certainly made us wince — $6,500 (with stands) buys you some much larger, full-range speakers from their existing lineup and whilst we have no doubt that the Concertino G4 are likely superb performers — one will require a rather large budget to build the right kind of system around these.
If you are lucky enough to snag one of the first 300 pairs — we are definitely jealous.
Livio and his team have done a masterful job with these.
Price & Availability
Perfect for long-time audiophiles who have a deep appreciation for the Sonus faber history, as well as a new generation seeking high fidelity audio experiences, Concertino G4 starts at $5,000 and will be available for purchase as of October 2024.
- Concertino G4 Maestro Edition: $ 5,000/pair
- Concertino G4 Stand: $ 1,500/pair