Elac Solano 2.0 CC281.2 black
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Overview
The Elac Solano 2.0 CC281.2 is a 2.5-way center speaker designed by Elac. It uses a JET 6 tweeter made in Kiel, precision drivers, and a solid MDF cabinet. Its frequency range extends from 34 Hz to 50 kHz, making it well-suited for center channel reproduction in home theater setups.
An acoustic design crafted for visual and sonic harmony
The CC281.2 features a clean rectangular shape with a slightly curved front baffle that breaks from the usual rigidity of center speakers. This curvature isn’t just aesthetic: it optimizes sound dispersion while reducing unwanted reflections. The cabinet, made from solid MDF with generous edge radii, gives the speaker a compact yet substantial presence with its dimensions of 190 × 500 × 248 mm.
The high-gloss lacquer finish, available in black or white, reflects meticulous attention to detail. Optional magnetic metal grilles protect the drivers while preserving the system’s minimalist aesthetic. Unlike the bookshelf and floorstanding models in the range that use a down-firing bass-reflex port, the CC281.2 employs a rear port configuration, better suited to its typical placement below or above a screen.
Its 12 kg weight attests to the robustness of the construction and careful vibration control. Thick panels and strategically placed internal bracing minimize unwanted coloration, allowing the drivers to perform at their best.
The JET 6 tweeter: AMT technology in the service of sonic transparency
At the heart of the CC281.2 is the JET 6 tweeter, the latest evolution of the Air Motion Transformer technology that Elac has been refining since 1993. This pleated-ribbon transducer, handcrafted in the Kiel workshops with assistance from SCARA robots to ensure tenth-of-a-millimeter precision, operates on the principle developed by physicist Oskar Heil.
The accordion-folded diaphragm is driven by a powerful neodymium bar magnet system. This design moves air significantly faster than conventional piston-type dome tweeters. The result is lightning-fast impulse response and an exceptionally wide dynamic range, with minimal distortion even at high volumes.
A linear frequency response up to 50 kHz—well beyond the limits of human hearing—ensures effortless reproduction across the entire audible band. This generous headroom translates into airy, natural highs without harshness or listening fatigue. The tweeter’s high efficiency of 92 dB/W/m contributes to the speaker’s overall liveliness.
Aluminum sandwich woofers for precise midrange and bass
Two 150 mm drivers flank the central tweeter, using Elac’s exclusive aluminum sandwich technology. This construction consists of a crystalline aluminum diaphragm bonded to a paper cone using a patented adhesive process. The hybrid structure combines the exceptional rigidity of aluminum with the paper cone’s natural damping properties.
Cast aluminum baskets ensure optimal mechanical stability while keeping mass low. This combination allows the woofers to maintain pistonic behavior over a wide frequency range, minimizing unwanted resonances and distortion. The lightweight diaphragms also deliver excellent transient response, crucial for dialogue clarity.
In this 2.5-way configuration, the two woofers do not operate identically. Crossovers at 450 Hz and 2400 Hz provide a progressive transition between drivers, optimizing spatial and temporal coherence in sound reproduction.
Acoustic performance and system integration
With a sensitivity of 87.5 dB (2.83 V/1 m) and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms (minimum 3.6 ohms), the CC281.2 requires a quality amplifier capable of delivering sufficient current. The recommended power range of 40 to 250 watts per channel offers wide pairing flexibility, from entry-level AV receivers to the most ambitious high-end electronics.
The speaker’s ability to reach down to 34 Hz allows it to reproduce the full male vocal range with authority while ensuring a smooth handoff to a subwoofer in multichannel setups. A peak power handling of 160 watts ensures comfortable headroom even during the most dynamic moments of modern soundtracks.
High-quality dual binding posts support bi-wiring or bi-amping, giving enthusiasts the option to further optimize performance. This connection flexibility—rare for a center speaker at this price point—demonstrates Elac’s uncompromising approach.
Documentation
Technical specifications
Design and build
- Type: 2.5-way bass-reflex loudspeaker
- Cabinet: Solid MDF, curved front baffle, compact design
- Grille: Optional magnetic metal grille for protection and style
Transducers
- Tweeter: JET 6, handcrafted, ultra-fast response and extended dynamics
- Woofers: 2 × 150 mm aluminum for rigidity and optimal bass and midrange reproduction
Acoustic performance
- Frequency response: 34 Hz – 50 kHz
- Crossover frequencies: 450 Hz / 2400 Hz
- Sensitivity: 87.5 dB @ 2.83 V / 1 m
- Nominal / minimum impedance: 4 Ω / 3.6 Ω
- Recommended amplifier power: 40 – 250 W / channel
- Rated / peak power: 120 W / 160 W
Dimensions and weight
- Height × width × depth: 190 × 500 × 248 mm
- Weight: 12 kg
Highlights
- Handcrafted JET 6 tweeter: clear, dynamic highs with low distortion
- Aluminum woofers: rigidity and precise midrange and bass
- Compact design: solid MDF cabinet, curved baffle
- Compatibility: stereo or home theater with FS 287.2 / CC 281.2
- Magnetic grilles: protection and modern aesthetics
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the CC281.2 and the previous CC281?
The CC281.2 incorporates the new JET 6 tweeter, an evolution of the JET 5 used in the original model. This sixth generation offers an extended low-end response from the tweeter for better integration with the woofers, increased signal precision, and superior dynamic capabilities. The woofers also benefit from AS-XR (Aluminum Sandwich – Extended Range) technology with a larger voice coil and a reinforced magnetic circuit.
Can this speaker be used on its own for stereo listening?
While technically capable of reproducing the full audio spectrum, the CC281.2 is specifically optimized for center-channel use. Its wide horizontal directivity and acoustic design prioritize dialogue clarity and precise localization at the center of the soundstage. For stereophonic listening, the BS283.2 (bookshelf) or FS287.2 (floorstanding) models from the same range are more suitable choices.
How should this center speaker be positioned?
Place the CC281.2 as close to the screen as possible, ideally at ear height at the listening position or slightly below. The rear port requires at least 10 cm of clearance from the wall. The speaker can be slightly tilted toward the listening area if positioned significantly above or below ear level. The magnetic grilles can be removed to maximize transparency during critical listening.
What amplifier should I use to properly drive the CC281.2?
Its 4-ohm impedance requires an amplifier stable into that load. Most modern AV receivers are suitable, but a model delivering at least 80 watts into 4 ohms will ensure comfortable dynamic headroom. Integrated or separate power amplifiers will generally offer better control, particularly in the bass. Avoid entry-level amplifiers that may struggle with the relatively low impedance.
Does bi-wiring provide an audible improvement?
The dual binding posts do allow bi-wiring, separating the signals sent to the tweeter and woofers. Perceived improvements vary depending on the system and room acoustics. This option mainly enables experimenting with different cable combinations or using active bi-amping for even greater control. The supplied quality jumpers already provide an optimal link in a single-wiring setup.
How well does the CC281.2 integrate with speakers from other brands?
Although designed to work ideally with other Solano models, the CC281.2 can integrate into an existing system. Its relatively neutral voicing and extended response facilitate matching. Be sure to adjust levels and distances in your A/V processor to compensate for sensitivity differences and ensure optimal tonal coherence between channels.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: EL-SOLANO-CC281.2-BL
