Davis Acoustics Ariane 5 black (pack of 2)

Successor to the Maya model praised by the specialist press, the Ariane 5 combines Davis Acoustics’ know-how with recent innovations in bass and treble reproduction. This 90 cm three-way floorstander, sold individually, lets you build out a stereo or multichannel system step by step to suit your needs.

A carefully engineered acoustic design

The three-way configuration divides the spectrum among three dedicated transducers. The soft cellulose dome tweeter (20.4 mm voice coil) reproduces highs up to 20 kHz without metallic coloration. Its rear chamber and partially copper-capped pole piece reduce distortion while enhancing openness at the top end.

The 17 cm midrange sports Davis Acoustics’ signature yellow woven fiberglass cone. This material offers an optimal stiffness-to-mass ratio for crystalline vocal reproduction and accurate timbre. The central phase plug improves dispersion, while a dust-protection ring shields the motor assembly.

For bass, a 17 cm driver uses a reinforced cellulose cone with a surface hardening treatment. The vented basket permits long excursions without distortion, reaching down to 42 Hz—a notable improvement over the Maya model. The bass-reflex loading with a front-firing port eases placement while extending low-frequency response.

Crossover points at 300 Hz and 3000 Hz ensure smooth transitions between drivers. The supplied accessories allow a slight rearward tilt, optimizing time alignment of the drivers for better spatial coherence.

Sensitivity and compatibility

With 92 dB sensitivity, the Ariane 5 works well with modest-power amplifiers while preserving dynamics. The 4-ohm impedance (with the minimum always higher, according to Davis) ensures a stable load. Power handling of 80 W RMS (150 W peak) supports a wide range of amplifiers, from tube designs to more powerful solid-state models.

The screw binding posts accept bare wire, banana plugs, or spades. Compact dimensions (19 × 90 × 26.2 cm, 13 kg) make home integration easy. Three finishes are available: black ash, light oak, and American walnut.

Optimal use

The Ariane 5 is suited to rooms up to 30 m², prioritizing neutrality for long, fatigue-free listening. Placement follows classic principles: adequate distance from walls, an equilateral listening triangle, and the tweeter at ear height. The absence of bi-amping simplifies setup while maintaining high performance.

Technical specifications

Acoustics

• Way configuration: 3-way
• Number of drivers: 3
• Sensitivity: 92 dB
• Frequency response: 42–20,000 Hz

Design

• Bass-reflex with front-facing circular port
• Screw binding posts on the rear of the speaker
• Mounts for protective grille

Drivers

• Tweeter
  • 20.4 mm voice coil
  • Soft cellulose dome
  • Foam surround
• Midrange
  • 17 cm fiberglass
  • Phase plug
  • Dust cap
• Woofer
  • 17 cm cellulose pulp
  • Vented frame for deep, dynamic bass
  • Low distortion

Electrical characteristics

• Rated power: 80 W
• Maximum power: 150 W
• Impedance: 4 ohms
• Crossover frequencies: 300 / 3,000 Hz

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions: 90 (h) × 19 (w) × 26.2 (d) cm
• Weight: 13 kg