Sonance MX56 white (pack of 2)
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Overview
The Sonance Mariner MX56 is a surface-mount outdoor loudspeaker that combines visual discretion with robust acoustic performance. Designed to withstand a wide range of weather conditions thanks to its IP66 and MIL-STD-810 certifications, it incorporates VX transducer technologies and the sinusoidal waveguide developed for Sonance’s Visual Experience architectural range. Sold in pairs and available in black or white, it is aimed at those who want to provide sound for terraces, gardens, or outdoor spaces without compromising the aesthetics of their environment.
A complete overhaul of the Mariner series
The MX series represents a complete overhaul of the historic Mariner range, which has only undergone minor changes over its 25 years of existence. This is the first time Sonance has completely redesigned and re-engineered this series to enhance its performance and ease of installation.
According to Skylar Gray, Director of Product Management at Sonance, the goal was to achieve superior dispersion and detail through the new Sonance waveguide technology, designed to push this category to a new level of performance.
Compared to the previous generation
- 250% increase in woofer excursion, resulting in considerably reduced distortion at high volume
- Increase in voice coil diameter by 7.44 mm for higher output power and vented pole pieces to dissipate heat at the coils
- Increase in RMS power handling from 70 W to 100 W
- Introduction of VX transducers and the textured sinusoidal waveguide
Transducers and acoustics: the contribution of VX technologies
The 130 mm woofer uses a laminated cone made of Kevlar and Nomex, two aramid materials with complementary properties. Kevlar resists elongation with a force factor more than 1000 times greater than that of steel, allowing the cone to resist deformation. These cones are significantly more rigid than paper, polypropylene, or aluminum cones of similar dimensions. Thanks to this rigidity, break-up resonances in the diaphragm are avoided. Nomex and Kevlar offer very high strength for their weight, and maintaining a low moving mass is beneficial for a loudspeaker cone. The rubber surround completes the assembly by ensuring flexibility and durability.
The 19 mm ceramic dome tweeter benefits from ferrofluid cooling and a rear compression chamber. Ferrofluid cools the loudspeaker coils, which can reach extreme temperatures. It transfers and dissipates the thermal energy produced by the strong vibrations of the moving transducer. Since magnets lose some of their power as temperature rises, keeping them cool ensures that the transducers operate efficiently with a consistent output level. Ferrofluid also damps transducer vibrations, allowing more power to be sent to the speakers before distortion appears.
Textured sinusoidal waveguide: controlled dispersion
At the heart of the VX speakers lies Sonance’s textured sinusoidal waveguide tweeter design, a technology meticulously engineered to deliver consistent dispersion and uniform coverage, so that the tonal balance remains unchanged regardless of the listener’s position within the space equipped with VX speakers.
Sonance states that this new tweeter design is the core of the VX series. This “sinusoidal” waveguide is a carefully tuned technology that delivers balanced audio coverage over a wide area. Unlike traditional speakers whose sound character changes depending on the listening angle, the MX56 maintains a stable sonic signature whether you are directly in front of the speaker or off to the side.
The flush perforated aluminum grille complements this system by preserving acoustic transparency while protecting the transducers.
A construction built for the outdoors
The MX56 is not just an indoor speaker adapted for outdoor use: it was designed from the outset to brave the elements.
MIL-STD-810 is a standard used by the US military to determine and certify whether equipment is suitable for military applications. This standard covers an extremely wide range of environmental conditions including: low pressure for altitude tests, exposure to high and low temperatures as well as thermal shock, rain (including driving and freezing rain), humidity, fungus, salt fog for corrosion testing, sand and dust exposure, and UV radiation.
The speaker is IP66 certified, offering resistance to powerful water jets, dust, and harsh outdoor environments. It also meets MIL-STD-810 certification for humidity, salt fog, temperature, and UV exposure, ensuring reliability in various weather conditions.
The speaker features a sealed polypropylene construction with waterproof transducers. The binding posts are positioned on the front and protected by a cover, which prevents corrosion compared to rear connections exposed to moisture ingress. This attention to detail allows the speaker to be washed with a hose without risking damage to the internal components.
Simplified installation with the FastMount system
The FastMount bracket system allows the speakers to simply clip onto the bracket for easy installation, after which the speaker angle can be locked in place for precise positioning that will not sag over time.
The FastMount bracket offers up to 180° of pivot, allowing for three mounting configurations:
- Wall mounting
- Ceiling mounting (under an eave, for example)
- Pole mounting
This flexibility makes it possible to aim the sound exactly at the desired listening area. Once the angle is set, the locking mechanism ensures that the speaker will not move, even after years of exposure to temperature changes.
The grille clip system ensures the grille stays securely in place despite exposure to extreme temperature fluctuations and outdoor elements.
Positioning within the Mariner MX range
The Mariner MX series includes several models to cover different areas and acoustic requirements:
| Model | Woofer | Power | Sensitivity | Frequency response |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MX52 | 130 mm polypropylene | 90 W | 87 dB | 65 Hz – 20 kHz |
| MX56 | 130 mm Kevlar/Nomex | 100 W | 88 dB | 60 Hz – 20 kHz |
| MX62 | 165 mm polypropylene | 125 W | 89 dB | 55 Hz – 20 kHz |
| MX66 | 165 mm Kevlar/Nomex | 140 W | 90 dB | 50 Hz – 20 kHz |
| MX86 | 200 mm Kevlar/Nomex | 175 W | 91 dB | 45 Hz – 20 kHz |
Technical specifications
Acoustic performance
- Type: 2-way
- Frequency response: 60 Hz – 20 kHz ± 3 dB
- Sensitivity: 88 dB SPL (2.83 V / 1 m)
- Impedance: 8 Ω nominal, 6 Ω minimum
- Power handling: 100 W
Transducers
- Woofer: 130 mm, laminated Kevlar / Nomex with rubber surround
- Tweeter: 19 mm, ceramic dome, ferrofluid-cooled with compression chamber
Design and aesthetics
- Grille: rectangular, flush-mounted aluminum
- Waveguide with sinusoidal texture for optimal dispersion
Dimensions
- Height x Width x Depth: 256 x 162 x 153 mm
Installation
- FastMount bracket included for quick and easy mounting
- Wall, ceiling, or pole mounting
- Orientation: adjustable up to 180° for an optimal sound dispersion angle
Environmental protection
- Weather resistance: rain, wind, and UV rays
- Protection rating: IP66 / MIL-STD-810
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Mariner MX56 stay outside all year round, even in winter?
Yes. The MIL-STD-810 certification and the -25°C to +65°C operating range allow the speakers to remain permanently installed, including during harsh winters or scorching summers. The sealed polypropylene enclosure and waterproof transducers withstand snow, frost, and heavy rain without degradation.
Which amplifier should I use with the MX56?
The MX56 works with any stereo or multichannel amplifier capable of delivering between 5 and 100 W into 8 ohms. Amplifiers from the Sonance range (DSP or Sonamp) are designed to match the brand’s speakers, but third-party amplifiers such as the Sonos Amp or Bluesound Powernode are also suitable. The nominal impedance of 8 ohms (minimum 6 ohms) ensures broad compatibility.
Can the speakers be painted to match the facade?
Absolutely. The polypropylene enclosure and aluminum grille can be finished with UV-resistant exterior paint. It is recommended to use an exterior-grade acrylic or epoxy paint and to apply several thin coats rather than a single thick coat, so as not to clog the grille perforations.
How do I aim the speakers after mounting?
The FastMount bracket allows up to 180° of pivot. Once the speaker is clipped in, slightly loosen the locking mechanism, adjust the angle toward the listening area, then retighten. The system maintains this position without sagging over time, even under repeated heat and cold cycles.
What is the difference between the MX56 and the older Mariner 56?
The MX56 incorporates the VX transducers and sinusoidal waveguide that were absent from the previous version. Power handling has increased from 70 W to 100 W, woofer excursion has increased by 250%, and the voice coil diameter has grown by 7.44 mm. These improvements result in reduced distortion at high volume, better power handling, and more even sound dispersion.
Can the speakers be installed near a pool or by the sea?
Yes. MIL-STD-810 certification specifically includes salt fog resistance testing. Marine environments or saltwater poolside locations will not be a problem, provided the speakers are occasionally rinsed with fresh water to remove salt deposits.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: 93607
