The growing parade of flagship loudspeakers priced above $60,000 has become a topic of conversation behind the scenes recently and more than a few of us are slightly puzzled why manufacturers are taking this approach.
Innovation is key to growth and there is no issue with companies attempting to push boundaries and create the best possible loudspeakers that they can — we just question why there isn’t more of a push at the bottom with entry-level and mid-tier loudspeakers that are active or wireless.
If you can create state-of-the-art loudspeakers between $60,000 and $750,000 — which only appeal to a select few on the planet, then clearly you have the capabilities to deliver on the promise of better sound quality for the rest of us.
The 99% of the population who might actually want to buy it.
Canton’s new Reference GS Limited Edition loudspeakers will be limited to only 50 pairs and on the surface — look extremely impressive. The company claims that these new flagship models are the best they have ever created; they certainly have some competition from DALI, Magico, and Focal at the price point.
These floorstanding loudspeakers are 64 inches tall, 18 inches wide, 28 inches deep, and weigh 340 pounds apiece.
The Reference GS loudspeakers are handcrafted with elements of wood, metal, and lacquer to create a distinct artistic look.
Tip: Check out our previous coverage of the Canton Reference Loudspeakers, which are the foundation of the Reference GS Limited Edition model.
Multi-Layer Specially Reinforced Cabinets
The redesigned Reference GS cabinet uses round baffles for the first time. The 3-inch thick baffles are manufactured on a 5-axis CNC milling machine.
The curved side panels, bases, and lids are made of multi-layer, 1-inch thick wood laminate. This provides added stability with a significant reduction in natural resonance.
To control the forces inside the Reference GS loudspeakers, computer-optimized reinforcement was used in its design. Internal standing waves are prevented by the selection of the front shape, baffle, and a precisely defined damping material made of a special fleece.
In addition, real wood side panels are firmly attached to the side panels. This stiffens the enclosure, further reducing unwanted resonance. The curves enable an acoustically optimized enclosure design, preventing edge reflections.
Diamond Tweeter
In a Canton first, a diamond dome tweeter is being used. in the Reference GS Limited Edition speakers. This cone material enhances high-frequency reproduction with more precise detail even at the highest volume levels.
Midrange and Woofers
Just as with the Canton Reference Series, the GS Limited Edition incorporates BCT (Black Ceramic Tungsten) and TCC (Triple Curved Cone) technology in the midrange drivers.
The woofers incorporate a Black Keramik-Wolfram wave surround, double cone construction.
Unique Crossovers
In combination with Displacement Control, the crossover of these speakers prevents uncontrolled excursion of the woofers and increases the bandwidth with the same cabinet size. The result is precise bass even at the highest sound pressure levels. These new crossovers contribute to stress-free music enjoyment at all frequencies and volume levels.
Canton Room Compensation technology
In addition to the tweeter and mid-range level adjustment found on the Reference Series, Reference GS adds adjustment for the bass sensitivity in 5.1 dB steps. This allows the speakers to be optimized to suit both personal listening tastes and room acoustics.
Wave Sicke 3.0
Three congruent surround bends are included in the drivers to ensure balanced force symmetry. This feature guarantees even transient and decay higher levels when necessary.
Absorbent Sealing Rings
Special sealing rings were developed for the Reference GS Limited Edition. The rings are flocked with a special fabric that achieves two important goals:
- Ensures complete sealing of the air volume in the speaker enclosure.
- Effectively reduces the transmission of the structure-borne vibrations.
Insulation Bass Plate
The Reference GS Limited Edition has been equipped with a redesigned base plate that enables the installation of solid, height-adjustable, stainless steel feet. Combined with supplied absorbers, these serve to almost completely decouple the speaker from the floor.
Comparison
| Reference GS Limited Editon | Reference 1 | |
| Speaker Design | Floorstanding | Floorstanding |
| Speaker Type | 3-way/Bass Reflex | 3-Way/Bass Reflex |
| Power Handling | 500 to 950 watts | 450 to 820 watts |
| Woofer | 4 x 8.6″ (219mm) | 3 x 8.6″ (219mm) |
| Midrange | 1 x 6.85″ (174mm) | 1 x 6.85″ (174mm) |
| Tweeter | 1 x 1″ (25mm) | 1 x 1″ (25mm) |
| Efficiency (2.83 v/1m) | 89 dB | 88 dB |
| Frequency Response | 18 to 40,000 Hz | 18 to 40,000 Hz |
| Crossover Points | 160 and 3,100 Hz | 170 and 3,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 4 to 8 ohms | 4 to 8 ohms |
| Dimensions (WxHxD with Base) | 18.1 x 64 x 28 inches (46 x 163 x 72 cm) | 15.4 x 52.4 x 2.48 inches (39 x 133 x 6.3 cm) |
| Weight | 342 lbs (155 kg) | 179 lbs (81 kg) |
| Price (Pair) | $60,000 (US) $79,000 (CAN) | $25,000 (US) $33,000 (CAN) |
Pricing, Finishes, and Availability
The Reference GS is limited to 50 pairs worldwide. It is offered in one finish as shown above. Retail price is $60,000/pair in the USA and $79,000/pair in Canada. Shipping now via Bluebird Audio and Authorized Dealers.
Tip: The speakers include a 10-year warranty.
Related Reading
Keith McAvoy
April 3, 2024 at 4:51 am
Yes,I too found it puzzling why in God’s name so many speaker manufacturers, building and pricing speakers in the stratosphere. What audio going after the deep, deep pocket customer only?