Davis Acoustics Ariane 2 light oak (pack of 2)

Davis Acoustics’ Ariane 2 embodies the French approach to the modern compact loudspeaker. This 6.2 kg, 2-way, rear-ported bookshelf design pairs a 17 cm fiberglass-cone mid-woofer with a 20 mm cellulose dome tweeter. With 90 dB sensitivity and a rear bass-reflex port, it partners well with 90 to 120-watt amplifiers while maintaining reasonable dimensions of 34 x 20.5 x 26 cm.

Bass-reflex design and material choices

The Ariane 2 employs a bass-reflex configuration with a decompression port positioned at the rear of the cabinet. This technical choice extends low-frequency response while keeping the enclosure compact. However, the rear port requires thoughtful placement, with sufficient space from the back wall to avoid unwanted reflections.

The 17 cm mid-woofer stands out with its fiberglass cone, a material that offers a solid balance between rigidity and internal damping. This composition limits unwanted resonances while preserving dynamics. A central dispersion phase plug and a dust-cap ring complete this meticulous design.

The 20 mm soft cellulose dome tweeter with foam surround reflects a different approach from the metallic tweeters commonly used. Cellulose tends to produce a less aggressive treble, especially welcome during long listening sessions. The 20 mm voice coil ensures an extended bandwidth up to 22,000 Hz.

Electro-acoustic performance and crossover

With 90 dB sensitivity, the Ariane 2 is compatible with most amplifiers, including moderately powered models. Its minimum impedance of 5 ohms aligns with current standards, though it benefits from an amplifier capable of delivering current into lower impedances.

The frequency response spans from 48 to 22,000 Hz, covering the essential audible spectrum. The crossover frequency, set at 3,500 Hz, places the woofer/tweeter transition in a critical zone where human hearing is most sensitive. This choice directly affects spectral coherence and image localization.

Rated power of 90 watts and a maximum of 120 watts allow comfortable listening levels in medium-sized rooms. These values suit typical domestic use rather than sound reinforcement applications.

Installation and everyday usability

Measuring 34 x 20.5 x 26 cm, the Ariane 2 falls into the compact bookshelf category, suitable for standard shelves or dedicated stands. The weight of 6.2 kg per speaker indicates serious construction without reaching the mass of flagship models.

Traditional screw binding posts make connections easy, even with thick cables. The two supplied rubber spikes allow slight tilting to optimize directivity, particularly useful when the speakers are positioned below the listening axis.

The rear port requires sufficient space between the speaker and the supporting wall. A minimum distance of 20 to 30 cm is generally necessary to preserve tonal balance and avoid unwanted low-frequency reinforcement.

Technical specifications

Electrical specifications

• Rated power: 90 W
• Maximum power: 120 W
• Minimum impedance: 5 ohms
• Sensitivity: 90 dB

Acoustic configuration

• Number of ways: 2
• Number of drivers: 2
• Frequency response: 48–22,000 Hz
• Crossover frequency: 3,500 Hz
• Bass-reflex system with rear port

Drivers

• Tweeter
  • 20 mm voice coil
  • soft cellulose dome
  • foam surround
• Mid-bass
  • diameter: 17 cm
  • fiberglass cone
  • phase plug
  • anti-dust ring

Physical specifications

• Dimensions: 34 cm (H) x 20.5 cm (W) x 26 cm (D)
• Weight: 6.2 kg per speaker
• Rear decompression port

Connectivity and installation

• Screw binding posts on the rear of the speaker
• Tilt using 2 supplied rubber spikes