Cabasse Baltic 5 on matt white base

A 27-centimeter sphere, three coaxial ways, a single sound emission point: since 1993, the Baltic has embodied Cabasse’s unique approach to acoustic reproduction. This fifth generation keeps the iconic silhouette while completely redesigning the triaxial TCA driver that forms its technical core. The result is a compact speaker with coherent reproduction across the entire spectrum, supplied here with its brushed aluminum base.

The point-source concept applied to a compact format

The advantage of a coaxial driver lies in its ability to emit all frequencies from the same geometric point. Unlike a traditional speaker where bass, midrange, and treble come from transducers spaced several centimeters apart, the Baltic 5 concentrates its three ways on a single axis. This configuration eliminates time offsets between the different frequency ranges and delivers a stable soundstage, regardless of the listening position in the room.

The TCA (Tri Coaxial Aramid) driver stacks three concentric diaphragms: a 20 cm woofer for bass, a 10 cm midrange, and a 2.5 cm tweeter placed at the very center. The crossover frequencies are set at 740 Hz and 3,500 Hz, allowing each transducer to operate in its optimal range.

Aramid honeycomb-structure diaphragms

For this fifth generation, Cabasse’s engineers have developed new diaphragms made from aramid fibers, a material usually reserved for aeronautical and ballistic applications. These cones feature a honeycomb structure that combines lightness and rigidity, two properties that are generally at odds in loudspeaker design.

The emitting surface of the diaphragms has been maximized while the fixed areas, which can cause diffractions, have been reduced to a minimum. The profile of the bass and midrange diaphragms remains constant and regular, contributing to a linear response. The two cones are produced simultaneously by a dedicated robot, using a process that guarantees consistent performance from one speaker to the next.

Rare-earth magnet motors

The increase in diaphragm rigidity has made it possible to pair the TCA with more powerful magnetic motors using rare-earth magnets. This combination results in a sensitivity of 91 dB and a continuous power handling of 250 W, with peak levels up to 1,210 W.

The nominal impedance of 8 ohms remains compatible with the vast majority of hi-fi and home theater amplifiers. Minimum impedance drops to 3.5 ohms over certain portions of the spectrum, something to keep in mind for tube amplifiers or entry-level models that struggle with complex loads.

The spherical cabinet: an acoustic as well as aesthetic choice

The spherical shape of the cabinet is more than just a visual signature. With no edges or parallel flat surfaces, internal standing waves are greatly reduced. The rigid shell eliminates parasitic resonances that would normally color the sound of rectangular box speakers.

The bass-reflex loading, whose port vents to the rear of the sphere, extends low-frequency response down to 75 Hz. Below this limit, adding a subwoofer is still necessary to reproduce the deepest frequencies.

The HDSE protocol for homogeneous dispersion

Cabasse validates each model according to its HDSE (Homogeneous Distribution of the Sonic Energy) protocol, which takes into account not only on-axis measurements, but also 360-degree radiation. The aim is to achieve a balanced distribution of sound energy throughout the room, so that direct and reflected sounds retain a homogeneous character. The soundstage gains in width and stability, with timbres that remain consistent even off-axis.

Stand or wall mounting

This stand-mounted version is designed to sit on a piece of furniture or a shelf. The brushed aluminum base incorporates a magnetic system that allows you to orient the sphere effortlessly. The terminals on the rear accept thick-gauge cables, banana plugs, and spades.

For those who prefer wall mounting, Cabasse also offers the Baltic 5 in a dedicated version, with an integrated bracket and discreet cable routing. Magnetic shielding allows placement close to a television without risk of interference.

Finishes and dimensions

The sphere is available in matte black or matte white. The brushed aluminum base adds a subtle touch that blends into most interiors. With dimensions of 27.8 × 27.3 × 27.3 cm and a weight of 6.5 kg per speaker, the Baltic 5 remains compact enough to blend into a living room without dominating the décor.

Uses and system matching

In stereo, a pair of Baltic 5 speakers driven by a quality amplifier delivers precise, detailed reproduction across the entire midrange–treble spectrum. Adding a subwoofer such as Cabasse’s Pearl Sub allows you to extend deeper into the bass while benefiting from DEAP technology, which automatically optimizes the signal according to the connected speakers.

In a home theater setup, the Baltic 5 can be used as a center speaker or as a satellite in a multichannel system. Its ability to handle high power and its 91 dB efficiency make it suitable for the dynamic soundtracks of action movies. The coherence of the point source makes it easier to localize sound effects and achieve seamless integration between channels.

Technical specifications

Acoustic design

• Type: 3-way coaxial satellite
• Enclosure: bass-reflex
• Crossover: HDSE
• Magnetic shielding: yes

Transducers

• Cabasse TCA tri-axial speaker
  • Woofer: 20 cm
  • Midrange: 10 cm
  • Tweeter: 2.5 cm

Acoustic performance

• Sensitivity: 91 dB / W / m
• Frequency response: 75 Hz – 25000 Hz
• Crossover frequencies: 740 Hz and 3500 Hz

Electrical characteristics

• Rated power: 250 W
• Peak power: 1210 W
• Nominal impedance: 8 Ω
• Minimum impedance: 3.5 Ω

Dimensions and weight

• Stand-mounted configuration: 27.8 × 27.3 × 27.3 cm – 6.5 kg per unit
• Wall-mounted configuration: 27.3 × 27.3 × 34.5 cm – 7.5 kg per unit