Canton has announced its Reference 2023 loudspeaker series. Designed for both hi-fi and home theater systems, there are 8 new models divided into 4 categories.
- Floorstanding: Reference 1, 2, 3, 5, 7
- Bookshelf/Compact: Reference 9
- Center Channel: Reference Center
- Subwoofer: Reference Sub
Update 11/22/2023: Available in the US and Canada!
Core Features
Before we get into details on each speaker, here are some core features they all share.
Innovative Cabinet Design
The Canton Reference Series features a modern rounded exterior design and meticulously engineered accents and interior structure that support optimum sound reproduction while minimizing undesired resonance issues. Each model incorporates computer-simulated internal reinforcement to minimize vibrations. In addition, a new bass guide allows for deep and powerful bass reproduction.
Material Versus Technology
To achieve the effective balance between stiffness and weight, BCT (Black Ceramic Tungsten) membranes used in low and midrange drivers transform 25% of the molecular structure of an aluminum cone into a ceramic structure, refined further with tungsten and other metal particles.
The specially black midrange ceramic cone incorporates TCC (Triple Curved Cone) technology which further stabilizes the membrane, reducing unwanted resonances and distortions.
To deliver crystal-clear highs, the Reference high-frequency systems use extremely light and rigid BC domes. The unique shape of the new asymmetrical wave guide optimizes radiation behavior both in the crossover range and in the high-frequency range above 15,000 Hz.
A newly introduced high-molecular-weight thermoplastic material, POM, adds the proper stiffness for acoustic damping and superior dimensional stability.
Frequency Adjustment
All the Reference Floorstanding speakers include an integrated mid-range-high-frequency adjustment, while the Reference 9 compact speaker incorporates a high-frequency adjustment. This allows listeners to compensate for room acoustics and individual listening preferences.
CNC Machining
The CNC machined, powder-coated steel feet for the floor-standing speakers provide better stability and minimize unwanted vibrations that might also compromise sound quality.
Flocked Gasket
A newly developed flocked gasket used in the speaker chassis ensures effective decoupling supporting better detail, further enhancing the listening experience.
Digitally Amplified Subwoofer
The digital amplifier incorporated into the Reference Subwoofer provides a 750-watt output with a low-frequency response down to 18 Hz. The Reference Subwoofer features both high-level and low-level inputs.
The following comparison table provides more detailed specifications for each speaker
Model Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Reference 5 Reference 7 Speaker Design Floorstanding Floorstanding Floorstanding Floorstanding Floorstanding Speaker Type 3-Way/Bass Reflex 3-Way/Bass Reflex 3-Way/Bass Reflex 3-Way/Bass Reflex 3-Way/Bass Reflex Power Handling 450 to 820 watts 370 to 630 watts 300 to 500 watts 200 to 370 watts 160 to 320 watts Woofer 3 x 219mm (8.6 inches) 3 x 219mm (8.6 inches) 2 x 192mm (7.56 inches) 2 x 174mm (6.85 inches) 2 x 154mm (6 inches) Midrange 1 x 174mm (6.85 inches) 1 x 174mm (6.85 inches) 1 x 174mm (6.85 inches) 1 x 174mm (6.85 inches) 1 x 154mm (6 inches) Tweeter 1 x 25mm (1 inch) 1 x 25mm (1 inch) 1 x 25mm (1 inch) 1 x 25mm (1 inch) 1 x 25mm (1 inch) Efficiency (2.83 v/1m) 88 dB 88 dB 88 dB 88 dB 87 dB Frequency Response 18 to 40,000 Hz 19 to 40,000 Hz 20 to 40,000 Hz 21 to 40,000 Hz 23 to 40,000 Hz Crossover Points 170 and 3,000 Hz 160 and 3,000 Hz 180 and 3,000 Hz 170 and 3,000 Hz 190 and 3,200 Hz Impedance 4 to 8 ohms 4 to 8 ohms 4 to 8 ohms 4 to 8 ohms 4 to 8 ohms Dimensions (WHD with Base) 39 x 133 x 6.3 cm (15.4 x 52.4 x 2.48 inches) 35 x 116 x 53 cm (13.8 x 45.7 x 20.9 inches) 32 x 109 x49 cm (12.6 x 42.9 x 19.3 inches) 30 x 101 x 46 cm (12 x 39.8 x 18.1 inches) 28 x 98 x 43 cm (11 x 38.6 x 16.9 inches) Weight 81 kg/179 lbs 62 kg/137 lbs) 42 kg (92.6 lbs) 36 kg (79.4 lbs) 33 kg (72.75 lbs) Price (Pair) $25,000 (US), $33,000 (CAN) $20,000 (US), $26,000 (CAN) $16,000 (US), $21,000 (CAN) $11,000 (US), $14,000 (CAN) $8,000 (US),
$10,500 (CAN)Model Reference 9 Reference Center Speaker Design Compact Bookshelf/Standmount Speaker Center Channel Speaker Speaker Type 2-way Bass Reflex 3-way Bass Reflex Power Handling 125 to 220 Watts 130 to 230 Watts Woofer 1 x 176 mm (7 inches) Mid-Woofer 1 x 176 mm (7 inches) Midrange 1 x 176 mm (7 inches) Tweeter 1 x 25mm (1 inch) 1 x 25 mm (1 inch) Efficiency (2.83 v/1m) 87 dB 88 dB Frequency Response 25 to 40,000 Hz 25 to 40,000 Hz Crossover Point 2,900 Hz 160 and 2,900 Hz Impedance 4 to 8 ohms 4 to 8 ohms Dimensions (WHD) 26 x 45 x 39 cm (10.2 x 17.7 x 15.4 inches) 70 x 27 x 39 cm (28 x 10.6 x 15.4 inches) Weight 18 kg/39.6 lbs 26 kg/67.34 lbs) Price (R9 pair – Center each) $5,000 (US), $6,500 (CAN) $4,000 (US), $5,200 (CAN) Model Reference Sub Speaker Design Powered Subwoofer Speaker Type Bass Reflex with Passive Diaphram (Radiator) Power Output 500/750 Watts Woofer 1 x 308 mm (12-inches) Passive Radiator 1 x 308 mm (12-inches) Frequency Response 18 to 200 Hz Crossover 55 to 200 Hz (Adjustable) Dimensions (WHD) 49 x 59 x 53 cm (19.3 x 23.2 x 20.9 inches) Weight 37 kg/81.7 lbs) Price (ea) $5,000 (US), $6,500 (CAN)
Availability
The Canton Reference Series is offered with White Satin, Piano Black, and Walnut finishes through authorized Canton Reference distributors such as Bluebird Music in the US.
Note: There may be some price variation on some speaker models depending on Finish.
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reademandweep
September 19, 2023 at 9:35 pm
Is this paid content?
Brian Mitchell
September 19, 2023 at 9:53 pm
No.
Ian White
September 19, 2023 at 9:59 pm
Bizarre question. But you’re welcome for all of the detailed information.
Best,
IW