Gilles
Excellent compromise in an intermediate sound space.
Comment from January 05, 2024 — Experience from December 25, 2023
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The Cabasse Eole 4 5.0 Pack brings together five identical spherical satellites, embodying French coaxial technology in an ultra-compact form factor. This fourth generation continues a tradition spanning over two decades, offering a multichannel solution that combines visual discretion with acoustic performance.
The Eole 4 satellites adopt a spherical shape with a 13-centimeter diameter, a geometry that ensures maximum structural rigidity while eliminating parasitic diffractions found in conventional speakers.
At the heart of each satellite, a 29-millimeter soft-dome tweeter sits at the center of a 10-centimeter mid-bass driver with a P2C (Charged Cellular Polypropylene) cone. This coaxial configuration, where both transducers share the same acoustic center, eliminates phase issues characteristic of conventional systems. The P2C diaphragm combines a lightweight cellular structure with high rigidity, allowing the driver to reach down to 150 Hz with controlled distortion.
The new protective grille, an innovation of this fourth generation, optimizes high-frequency dispersion thanks to perforations recalculated in an anechoic chamber. The 4000 Hz crossover ensures a natural transition between registers, while the 150 Hz to 22 kHz bandwidth covers the bulk of the audible spectrum.
The magnetic mounting system transforms multichannel installation. Each satellite rests on a magnetized base allowing full 360-degree rotation and adjustable tilt. This freedom enables precise orientation of each satellite toward the listening area without architectural constraints.
The base can be placed on a shelf, fixed to a wall with a single screw, or mounted on the optional Eole Stand. Magnetic force holds the satellite firmly while enabling fine adjustments without tools. Full magnetic shielding allows placement near sensitive equipment—a feature inherited from the era of CRT televisions but still relevant for certain audio gear.
With a sensitivity of 90 dB for 1 watt at 1 meter and a power handling of 70 watts (490 watts peak), the Eole 4 satellites deliver comfortable performance. The nominal impedance of 8 ohms with a minimum of 4 ohms makes them easy loads for multichannel home cinema amplifiers.
The 150 Hz low-frequency limit, inherent to the compact format, means pairing with a subwoofer is recommended for fully balanced reproduction. This characteristic does not affect dialogue intelligibility, as the vocal range is fully covered with remarkable clarity thanks to the coaxial system.
The five identical satellites ensure exemplary tonal uniformity, a fundamental criterion of modern home cinema. The center speaker fully benefits from coaxial technology: the point source provides even dispersion to all listening positions, solving the issue of conventional center channels that favor the on-axis listener.
The front satellites create the main soundstage with a stable, focused stereo image. Controlled dispersion avoids excessive early reflections, preserving clarity and definition. The surround speakers complete the envelope by creating ambience and directional effects, with placement facilitated by the adjustable magnetic system.
The Eole lineage illustrates Cabasse’s evolutionary approach. The first generation introduced the concept of a miniature coaxial sphere with horizontal rotation only. Eole 2 brought the revolutionary adjustable magnetic base. Eole 3 extended the bandwidth to 150 Hz and optimized efficiency.
Eole 4 represents the culmination with its new acoustic grille and internal refinements: tighter tolerances, optimization of moving masses, and improved suspensions. These cumulative enhancements contribute to increased transparency in the upper spectrum.
Technically yes, but the response limited to 150 Hz deprives the listener of an octave and a half in the lows. For music requiring deep fundamentals or the special effects of modern cinema, adding a subwoofer like the Lipari 21 or Santorin 30 transforms the experience. In pure stereo for vocal content or chamber music, the satellites alone may suffice.
Between 50 and 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms is the optimal range. Below that, dynamics may suffer on complex passages. Beyond that, gains are marginal given the satellites’ high sensitivity. Mid-range home cinema receivers from Denon, Yamaha, Marantz, or Onkyo offer ample power with the added benefit of automatic calibration features.
The redesigned protective grille is the main clue. Its perforation pattern differs subtly yet visibly from earlier versions. Dimensions and proportions have remained identical since the Eole 2. Finish quality has been refined over generations, with stricter assembly tolerances on the current version.
As main and surround speakers, absolutely. For height channels, their omnidirectional design and light weight are assets. The In-Ceiling adapter even allows ceiling installation with adjustable orientation. Simply plan for additional satellites depending on the targeted Atmos configuration (5.0.2, 5.0.4, etc.).
Gilles
Excellent compromise in an intermediate sound space.
Comment from January 05, 2024 — Experience from December 25, 2023
Jean marc
Excellent product, very good speakers with nothing to complain about in terms of sound quality. The only downside is the wall connection, which is really very complex and requires two people for mounting and especially connection. Connecting the 2.5 cable to the small terminal block is very delicate and tedious. Since I was alone, I connected everything directly without the terminal blocks and it works very well like that. Once connected, the speakers are pure bliss.
Comment from October 02, 2023 — Experience from September 21, 2023