Cabasse Baltic 5 on matte black stand

A 27-centimeter sphere, three coaxial ways, a single sound emission point: since 1993, the Baltic has embodied Cabasse’s singular approach to acoustic reproduction. This fifth generation preserves 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 delays between different frequency ranges and provides 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 the bass, a 10 cm midrange, and a 2.5 cm tweeter placed at the center of the assembly. The crossover frequencies are set at 740 Hz and 3,500 Hz, allowing each transducer to operate in its optimal range.

Aramid diaphragms with honeycomb structure

For this fifth generation, Cabasse engineers have developed new diaphragms made of 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 antagonistic in loudspeaker design.

The radiating surface of the diaphragms has been maximized, while the fixed areas likely to generate diffractions have been reduced to a minimum. The profile of the bass and midrange diaphragms remains constant and regular, which contributes to linear frequency response. The two cones are produced simultaneously by a dedicated robot, using a process that guarantees performance consistency from one speaker to another.

Rare-earth magnet motors

The increased rigidity of the diaphragms 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 or home cinema amplifiers. Minimum impedance drops to 3.5 ohms over certain portions of the spectrum, a point to consider for tube amplifiers or entry-level models that struggle with complex loads.

The spherical enclosure, an acoustic as well as an aesthetic choice

The spherical shape of the cabinet is more than just a visual signature. In the absence of edges and parallel flat surfaces, internal standing waves are greatly attenuated. The rigid shell eliminates unwanted resonances that usually color the sound of rectangular boxed speakers.

The bass-reflex loading, with a port opening at the back of the sphere, extends the bass response down to 75 Hz. Below this limit, adding a subwoofer is still necessary to reproduce the very lowest frequencies.

The HDSE protocol for homogeneous dispersion

Cabasse validates each model according to its HDSE protocol (Homogeneous Distribution of the Sonic Energy), which takes into account not only on-axis measurements, but also 360-degree radiation. The goal 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 tonal balance that remains consistent even off-axis.

Installation on stand or wall

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 effortless orientation of the sphere. The rear binding posts accept large-section cables, banana plugs, and spades.

For those who prefer wall mounting, Cabasse also offers the Baltic 5 in a dedicated wall version, with an integrated bracket and discreet cable routing. Magnetic shielding allows placement near 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 discreet 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 visually.

Uses and system matching

In stereo, a pair of Baltic 5 speakers driven by a quality amplifier offers precise, detailed listening across the entire midrange–treble spectrum. Adding a subwoofer, such as Cabasse’s Pearl Sub, allows deeper bass extension while taking advantage of DEAP technology, which automatically optimizes the signal according to the connected speakers.

In a home cinema configuration, the Baltic 5 can serve as a center speaker or satellite in a multichannel system. Its ability to handle high power and its 91 dB sensitivity make it suitable for the dynamic soundtracks of action movies. The coherence of the point source facilitates localization of sound effects and seamless blending between channels.

Technical specifications

Acoustic design

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

Transducers

• Cabasse TCA tri-axial driver
  • 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

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

Dimensions and weight

• On-stand configuration: 27.8 × 27.3 × 27.3 cm – 6.5 kg per unit
• On-wall configuration: 27.3 × 27.3 × 34.5 cm – 7.5 kg per unit