Fyne Audio Classic VIII SM walnut (pack of 2)
Overview
The Vintage Classic VIII SM from Fyne Audio are compact-format bookshelf speakers. They feature a 200 mm IsoFlare driver paired with a downward-firing BassTrax bass-reflex system. Sensitivity is 91 dB and the frequency response extends from 34 Hz to 34 kHz. The cabinet boasts a real walnut veneer finish and an aesthetic inspired by the 1970s.
A physical design between tradition and modernity
The speakers adopt a characteristic rectangular shape with straight side panels, a flat top, and a robust plinth section, echoing the classic proportions of vintage home monitors. The generous dimensions of 540 x 330 x 294 mm and a weight of 16.1 kg per speaker reflect a substantial construction.
The cabinet uses thick high-density composite fiber panels, a clear upgrade over the half-inch chipboard panels used in the 1970s. This material evolution delivers increased rigidity and extensive internal bracing that optimizes mechanical behavior far beyond the resonant enclosures of yesteryear.
The hand-finished real walnut veneer contrasts elegantly with the deep black baffle, accented by gold trim and visual cues drawn directly from the 1970s. The wood-framed grilles feature a woven fabric whose color and subtle patterns are inspired by Scottish kilt textiles, adding a distinctive cultural touch. In a decidedly modern approach, the grilles attach via hidden magnets on the baffle and can be stored at the rear of the cabinet during critical listening sessions.
IsoFlare and FyneFlute technologies: innovation at the heart of the system
Fyne Audio’s IsoFlare technology is a point-source transducer system in which the bass/mid driver shares a common center with the high-frequency unit, enabling perfect time alignment. Developed by Dr. Paul Mills, Fyne Audio’s CTO and former Head of Research at Tannoy for 30 years, this technology ensures that the acoustic path lengths of both transducers are identical.
The 200 mm IsoFlare module features a multi-fiber cone for low and mid frequencies, coupled with a compression tweeter sporting a 25 mm magnesium dome and a ferrite magnet system. The unique geometry of the high-frequency unit’s waveguide delivers a flat frequency response and contributes to the driver’s uniform dispersion.
FyneFlute technology is a unique surround system using computer-designed variable geometry to eliminate termination-related anomalies. This variable-geometry design in the flutes effectively removes stray reflections and reduces coloration, delivering superior musical precision. The ribbed structure of the FyneFlute surround significantly improves transient response by creating a more effective barrier for cone energy.
BassTrax: a sophisticated approach to bass
The BassTrax Tractrix system is a complex yet refined approach to bass-reflex loading and tuned porting. The cabinets are vented vertically at the base, firing downward onto a mathematically calculated Tractrix-profile diffuser cone that transforms the planar wave into a 360-degree wavefront exiting horizontally through vents on all four sides.
This technology, first used in the 1920s by Voight, converts planar wave energy into an expanding 360-degree spherical wavefront, distributing energy evenly into the room. The S-Trax positioning is precisely calculated at 74 mm from the front edge to optimize dispersion. This system makes room placement less critical than with traditional rear-ported designs.
The BassTrax system delivers deep, articulate, and musical low frequencies, offering the smoothest LF response down into the very low registers without relying on excessive driver pressure. The all-around venting is neatly concealed with matching grille fabric that harmoniously wraps the cabinet.
Technical specifications and customizable tuning
The Classic VIII SM deliver an extended frequency response from 34 Hz to 34 kHz, with a crossover frequency set at 1.8 kHz. The nominal impedance of 8 ohms and sensitivity of 91 dB allow easy pairing with a wide range of amplifiers, with recommended power from 30 to 180 watts RMS.
Two adjustment controls enable fine tuning: the “Energy” control offers +/- 3 dB adjustment of the tweeter output, while the “Presence” control provides the same adjustment over the 2.5–5 kHz range with little to no effect on other frequencies. This continuously variable system follows the principle of the original Tannoy designs, but whereas current models use jumpers for fixed settings, Fyne’s system remains continuously variable as in the original.
The bi-wireable passive crossover features Cryo-Lite cryogenic treatment, using a 2nd-order low-pass and a 1st-order high-pass. Dual binding posts allow for bi-wiring or bi-amping according to user preference.
Technical Specifications
Acoustic System
- System type: 2-way, downward-firing port with BassTrax Tractrix diffuser
- Driver: 1 x 200 mm IsoFlare
- Multi-fibre bass/mid cone with FyneFlute surround
- 25 mm magnesium dome tweeter
- Ferrite magnet
Electrical Performance
- Recommended amplification: 30 – 180 W RMS
- Power handling: 90 W RMS continuous, 360 W peak
- Sensitivity: 91 dB (2.83 V @ 1 m)
- Nominal impedance: 8 Ω
Frequency Response and Crossover
- Frequency response: 34 Hz – 34 kHz
- Crossover: 1.8 kHz, low-loss passive bi-wiring
- 2nd-order low-pass / 1st-order high-pass
- Cryo-Lite treatment
- System adjustments:
- High-frequency energy (1.8 kHz – 34 kHz): + / - 3 dB
- Presence (2.5 kHz – 5 kHz): + / - 3 dB
Dimensions and Construction
- Dimensions: 540 x 330 x 294 mm (H x W x D)
- Weight: 16.1 kg
- S-Trax position: 74 mm from the front edge
- Cabinet construction: high-density panels, walnut veneer, extensive internal bracing
- Finish: real walnut with black baffle and gold inserts in a vintage style
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Classic VIII SM and the Classic VIII floorstanding version?
The Classic VIII floorstander uses the same proven 200 mm IsoFlare driver with FyneFlute surround and 25 mm magnesium-dome compression tweeter, but in a larger floorstanding cabinet that offers a bigger, richer, and more engaging sound. Both models share the same core technologies, but the floorstanding version benefits from greater internal volume for potentially deeper bass extension.
How exactly does the BassTrax system work and what are its advantages?
The BassTrax system converts the energy from the down-firing port into a smooth 360-degree wavefront using a patented Tractrix diffuser. This technology eliminates the placement issues typical of rear-ported speakers, allowing positioning closer to walls without compromising bass quality. Air exits the cabinet against a cone that gently channels it from a vertical axis to a horizontal axis, ensuring a consistent fixed boundary.
Are the Energy and Presence adjustments really useful in daily use?
These adjustments are particularly handy for tailoring the speakers to the specific acoustics of each room. The “Energy” control changes the overall brightness of the presentation by adjusting the tweeter level from the crossover point upward. The “Presence” control specifically affects the critical band covering the human voice between 2.5 and 5 kHz, influencing vocal articulation and clarity as well as image depth.
What type of amplifier is best suited to the Classic VIII SM?
With their 91 dB sensitivity and nominal 8-ohm impedance, the Classic VIII SM accommodate a wide range of amplifiers. Recommended power ranges from 30 to 180 watts RMS, with a continuous power handling of 90 watts RMS and 360 watts peak. This versatility supports the use of modest-power tube amplifiers as well as more powerful solid-state designs.
Does IsoFlare technology really make an audible difference compared to conventional designs?
The IsoFlare point-source design ensures perfect time alignment across the full audio spectrum, delivering class-leading stereo imaging even off-axis. With no nulls or lobes in the dispersion pattern, stereo imaging remains precisely focused both on-axis and off. This characteristic enables a wider listening area and maintains tonal consistency even as you move around the room.
How does Cryo-Lite cryogenic treatment influence performance?
The Deep Cryogenic Treatment (DCT) process has been refined by Dr. Mills over the past decade to best relieve stress in materials, solder joints, and cables, thereby maximizing signal transparency. Applied to the fully assembled crossover, this treatment improves the crystalline structure of metals and optimizes every solder joint.
Do the Classic VIII SM require specific stands or supports?
For optimal performance, the use of dedicated high-quality stands is strongly recommended with the Classic VIII SM. The design incorporates a dedicated BassTrax implementation engineered to deliver the best 360-degree LF wavefront performance when the speakers are raised above floor level on stands. If placed on a shelf or furniture, four supplied self-adhesive feet should be attached to protect the surface.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.