Cabasse Baltic 5 wall white matte

Since 1993, the Baltic range has embodied a unique approach to sound reproduction: a spherical satellite housing a three-way coaxial driver, a concept for which Cabasse remains the only manufacturer in the world. This fifth generation refines the formula with a completely redesigned TCA transducer, aramid honeycomb diaphragms, and understated matte finishes. The wall-mounted version offers discreet integration without sacrificing the acoustic qualities that built the range’s reputation.

The point-source principle applied in three ways

The coaxial architecture of the Baltic 5 brings the three drivers together on the same axis: a 20 cm woofer for the low end, a 10 cm midrange driver, and a 2.5 cm tweeter in the center. This arrangement allows the entire sound spectrum to radiate from a single point, eliminating the time delays between channels that are typical of conventional speakers with separate drivers.

Phase alignment of the different frequencies remains constant regardless of the listening angle, a notable advantage in setups where the listener cannot always sit exactly on the main axis of the speakers. The HDSE (Homogeneous Distribution of the Sonic Energy) measurement protocol developed by Cabasse takes into account 360° directivity, not just the on-axis response. Direct and reflected sounds thus share a spectral coherence that promotes a stable soundstage, even at the edges of the listening area.

Aramid diaphragms and rare-earth motors

For this fifth iteration, engineers at the Plouzané research center developed new aramid fiber diaphragms with a honeycomb structure. This honeycomb design offers a particularly favorable stiffness-to-mass ratio: the diaphragms resist deformation without adding weight to the moving assembly, which improves transient response.

The bass and midrange diaphragms share the same material and are manufactured simultaneously by a dedicated robot, ensuring consistent behavior between the two frequency ranges. The cone profile follows a smooth, continuous curve that maximizes radiating surface while reducing diffraction at the junctions. Rare-earth magnet motors, more powerful than conventional ferrite magnets, provide tighter control over diaphragm movement and increase power handling compared with previous generations.

A sphere serving as an acoustic enclosure

The spherical shape of the enclosure is not just a visual signature. This geometry eliminates the corners and edges responsible for parasitic diffractions and coloration in the midrange. The absence of parallel surfaces inside the speaker prevents standing waves that typically plague rectangular cabinets.

The bass-reflex load integrated into this 27 cm diameter sphere extends low-frequency response down to 75 Hz. While this limit may be sufficient for music in a moderately sized room, adding a subwoofer is still relevant for reproducing the infra-bass range or movie soundtracks. The built-in magnetic shielding allows the speaker to be placed in close proximity to a television with no risk of interference.

Wall mounting and adjustable orientation

The wall-mounted version of the Baltic 5 features a single-screw mounting system that simplifies installation. Once in place, the sphere pivots on its support thanks to a magnetic system, allowing you to orient the transducer toward the listening area without disassembly. This installation flexibility is well suited to both stereo use and multichannel home theater setups, where surround speakers often have to adapt to placement constraints.

The weight of 7.5 kg per unit in wall configuration does, however, require mounting to a solid support, ideally a load-bearing wall or reinforced studs. The compact dimensions (27.3 × 27.3 × 34.5 cm with the bracket) allow integration into tight spaces, such as above a piece of furniture or on either side of a screen.

Amplification and recommended pairings

With an efficiency of 91 dB/W/m, the Baltic 5 offers decent sensitivity for a compact three-way speaker. It handles 250 W nominal power and peaks up to 1210 W, which gives it substantial dynamic headroom. The nominal impedance of 8 ohms drops to 3.5 ohms in certain parts of the spectrum: an amplifier that is stable with low-impedance loads and capable of delivering current will be an appropriate partner.

Pairing with the connected subwoofer The Pearl Sub is the most integrated option in the Cabasse range. The subwoofer houses amplification, streaming, and automatic room correction, turning the Baltic 5 into a complete 2.1 system without separate electronics. Passive Santorin subwoofers remain compatible for setups driven by a traditional AV amplifier or home cinema processor.

Comparison with the Baltic Evolution

The Baltic 5 retains the dimensions of its predecessor but introduces several substantial improvements. The TCA transducer replaces the TC23: aramid honeycomb diaphragms succeed the Duocell diaphragms, with gains in stiffness and radiating surface. New-generation rare-earth motors improve power handling and control of the moving assembly.

Aesthetically, the matte finish (black or white) contrasts with the gloss lacquers of earlier versions. The transducer design also evolves: the three all-black diaphragms form a visually more homogeneous surface than previous configurations, where the black/white contrast emphasized the coaxial architecture. This visual discretion may please or disappoint depending on taste, but obviously does not affect acoustic performance.

Technical specifications

Acoustic design

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

Transducers

• Cabasse TCA triaxial 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

• Rated power: 250 W
• Peak power: 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
• Wall-mounted configuration: 27.3 × 27.3 × 34.5 cm – 7.5 kg per unit