Canton Reference 2 walnut (pack of 2)

Second-largest model in the Reference series launched in 2023, this 3-way floorstander succeeds the Reference K generation and marks a turning point in Canton’s design language. The former angular cabinet gives way to a fully curved silhouette, the result of a completely rethought design. Manufactured at the Weilrod headquarters in Hesse, it combines five decades of expertise from Germany’s largest loudspeaker manufacturer in a format capable of filling large rooms with sound.

A shape dictated by acoustics

The cabinet abandons the sharp edges of the K series in favor of curved side panels, arched top and bottom, and a rounded front baffle. This geometry reduces surface reflections and internal resonances while increasing the usable volume without enlarging the footprint. The multilayer laminated structure is machined on a 5-axis CNC router dedicated specifically to the Reference series.

The piano black finish alone requires twelve coats of lacquer, each sanded before the next is applied. A walnut version makes its debut in the catalog, a first-time option for the Reference range: the veneer receives a fine-grain, sanded matte treatment. A satin white finish completes the lineup.

The plinth, decoupled from the main cabinet, houses the Bass-Guide system. This downward-firing bass-reflex vent directs the airflow toward the floor and around the speaker, limiting turbulence noise and making placement less sensitive to proximity to walls. CNC-machined feet with PVD treatment complete the mechanical isolation.

BCT cones and asymmetric waveguide

Four drivers share the audible spectrum. The two woofers measure 219 mm, the midrange 174 mm. All three use BCT (Black Ceramic Tungsten) cones: an aluminum cone in which around 25% of the molecular structure is converted to ceramic by electrolysis, then enriched with tungsten particles. This process gives the cone high rigidity for relatively low mass, and its characteristic black color, visible on both sides of the diaphragm.

The 25 mm tweeter uses a dome made of aluminum oxide ceramic (BC technology). Positioned between the midrange and woofers, it benefits from an asymmetric waveguide integrated into the ASW (Asymetric Waveguide Ring) mounting ring, made from polyoxymethylene. These three-dimensional rings allow all the drivers to sit flush on the rounded baffle with no visible screws and help to even out dispersion in the mid and high frequencies. The multi-pleat Wave Surround 3.0 suspensions allow long excursion while keeping the cone precisely centered.

Three chambers, three ways

Each section of the 3-way system has its own internal volume, optimized through computer modeling. The crossover frequencies are set at 160 Hz and 3 kHz. The two woofers operate in parallel up to 160 Hz, the midrange covers the central band, and the tweeter takes over from 3 kHz up to 40 kHz. The specified response extends down to 19 Hz, where the Bass-Guide and generous cabinet volume make a noticeable difference with large pipe organs or low-frequency synthesizers.

With a sensitivity of 88 dB and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms, the Reference 2 requires a stable amplifier capable of delivering sustained current. It can handle up to 370 W continuous and 630 W peak music power. A quality integrated amplifier of 80 to 120 W is sufficient to drive it to high domestic listening levels, but it reveals more nuance with separate amplification or power amps.

Room Compensation tuning and WBT terminals

The rear panel features four low-mass WBT-nextgen™ binding posts, reducing eddy currents for cleaner signal transmission. Two pairs of gold-plated copper jumpers are supplied for single-wiring; removing them enables bi-wiring or bi-amping.

Two metal knobs adjust the midrange and tweeter levels in 1.5 dB increments (± 1.5 dB). This Room Compensation function helps correct a room that is too reverberant or too damped, or simply tailor the sound to personal listening preferences. Adjustment is done by ear, with no measurements needed: the neutral setting (position 0) will suit most situations, but a very heavily furnished or very glassy room may justify some correction.

Magnetic grilles and setup

Individual grilles made from acoustically transparent fabric protect each driver and attach via recessed magnets. Removing them reveals the black cones and ASW rings, giving the speaker a more technical look. At 62 kg per speaker, unpacking and positioning require two people. It is best to allow at least 20 cm of free space behind the speaker so the Bass-Guide can breathe, even though the system tolerates closer-to-wall placement than a conventional rear-ported bass-reflex design.

Stereo and home cinema use

The Reference 2 forms a standalone stereo pair for rooms from 25 to 60 m². It also partners with the rest of the Reference series (center speakers, bookshelf models, subwoofer) to create a home cinema system. Its dynamics and low-frequency extension let it reproduce movie soundtracks without a subwoofer, although adding the Reference Sub further increases headroom for infrabass effects.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of amplifier is suitable for the Reference 2?

An amplifier that is stable into a 4-ohm load and delivers at least 80 W per channel will provide good results. High-end power amps or integrated amplifiers capable of doubling their power into 4 ohms will make better use of the speaker’s dynamic potential. Low-power tube amps (less than 30 W) are not recommended.

How does the Bass-Guide system work?

Bass-Guide is a downward-firing bass-reflex vent integrated into the plinth. Air exits around the base of the speaker rather than through a rear or front port. This configuration reduces sensitivity to placement near walls and limits turbulence noise at high volume.

What’s the difference compared with the previous Reference 2 K?

The K series used three 219 mm woofers, a trapezoidal cabinet with pronounced edges, and weighed around 71 kg. The new Reference 2 features two woofers of the same diameter, a fully curved cabinet, a decoupled plinth with Bass-Guide, and latest-generation BCT cones. The design is more compact in height, but the internal volume remains comparable.

What room size is recommended?

Canton recommends the Reference 2 for medium to large rooms, typically between 25 and 60 m². In a smaller space, the Reference 3 or Reference 5 will be easier to integrate without overloading the room with bass.

Technical specifications

Acoustic configuration

• Type: 3-way passive floorstanding speaker, bass-reflex
• Design: bass-reflex system with Bass-Guide technology for optimized low-frequency dispersion
• Drivers:
  • 2 x 219 mm woofers with BCT (Black Ceramic Tungsten) cone
  • 1 x 174 mm BCT midrange driver
  • 1 x 25 mm BC tweeter with asymmetrical waveguide
• Crossover frequencies: 160 Hz / 3000 Hz

Acoustic performance

• Frequency response: 19 Hz – 40,000 Hz
• Power handling:
  • Nominal: 370 W
  • Music: 630 W
• Nominal impedance: 4 ohms
• Sensitivity: 88 dB (2.83 V / 1 m)

Technologies and construction

• BCT (Black Ceramic Tungsten) cones: new generation offering maximum rigidity and minimal distortion, combining extreme rigidity with low mass
• Reinforced multi-layer cabinet effectively limiting unwanted resonances
• Curved cabinet shape promoting even dispersion and a precise soundstage
• Internal bracing optimized by computer modeling
• Room Compensation setting: adjustment of mid and high frequencies (± 1.5 dB) according to the room’s acoustics
• Wave Surround 3.0 technology ensuring precise and controlled driver excursion

Connectivity

• High-end WBT-nextgen™ binding posts
• Bi-wiring / bi-amping compatible
• Low-loss binding posts for optimal signal transmission

Mechanical construction

• Plinth with decoupled construction and floating design
• Decoupled plinth with CNC feet and PVD coating
• Protective grille:
  • Magnetic attachment
  • Acoustically neutral fabric

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions with plinth (W × H × D): 35 × 116 × 53 cm
• Dimensions without plinth:
  • Width: 32 cm
  • Depth: 50 cm
• Weight: 62 kg