Cambridge Audio Says, "Respect the Minx"

(Editorial note: Last week at CEDIA Expo 2010 Cambridge Audio debuted a stunning—and stunningly affordable—new Sat/Sub-type loudspeaker system called Minx. Many of us had seen or heard this script before: "Small sat/sub systems make big sounds…" blah, blah, blah. But frankly, all it takes is one listen to know that the Minx system is considerably different and better than others of its ilk. In fact, when The Perfect Vision Editor Chris Martens heard the Minx rig at CEDIA, he found it sounded almost shockingly good.

Here's the back story. The Minx system comprises two very tiny (think palm-of-the-hand-sized) satellites called the Minx Min 10 and Minx Min 20. Both use--get this--NXT/BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) drivers of the type used in the costly Naim flagship Ovator loudspeaker, only smaller in scale (the Min 10 uses one driver, the Min 20 uses two). The result is a set of very small satellites that can play loudly, offer excellent dispersion, and that have surprisingly wide frequency response (bass response for the Min 10 extends down to 120Hz while the Min 20 reaches lower still, to about 100Hz). Not surprisingly, the little system produces exceptionally broad and deep soundstages, and images beautifully, too. Then add in any of three compact matching Minx subs (which will add wireless features circa CES 2011), called the X200, X300, and X500, and you've got a more or less full-range system that can meet or beat most "lifestyle" competitors on price while typically clobbering them in terms of sound quality.

Minx 2.1-channel system bundles based on the Min 10 start at $549 (or $720 for 2.1-channel systems based on the Min 20's). 5.1-channel Minx bundles start at $799.

Below, we present the text of Cambridge Audio’s press release on the Minx system, along with images of the system components.).

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Cambridge Audio Minx Redefines Performance Expectations from a Compact Loudspeaker  

Highly Regarded British Manufacturer Brings Together True HiFi Sound with Miniature Design 

CEDIA Expo, Atlanta, Ga September 22, 2010 — Audio Plus Services, a leading North American importer/distributor of premium products for the audio, video and home theater markets, unveiled Minx from Cambridge Audio, an amazing mini speaker system that seemingly bends the laws of physics to create a powerful musical experience that envelopes the listener.

With Minx, and Cambridge Audio’s revolutionary new design principles, everything changes and it’s a new game. For the first time, one can experience genuine hi-fi quality, power and refinement from speakers of incredibly small dimensions. Minx brings music, movies, sports and TV shows to life in a way no miniature speaker has ever before achieved.

Minx is a discreet, design-led, high performance system comprised of powerful subwoofers and easy-to-integrate satellite speakers which feature high-end BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) technology for an incredible soundstage. BMR uses a single flat panel to product a wide bandwidth sound with exceptional dispersion.

Two different satellite speaker designs and three subwoofer models can be combined to create the ideal solution for any home – from a chic penthouse apartment to a power hungry home theater. Minx can be mixed and matched for a variety of applications.

Minx impresses on numerous fronts with its minimalist appearance, miniature size and minimal space requirements. For example, the Min10, the smallest satellite measures only 3” x 3” while the X200 sub a mere 8 x 8”. Stylish Minx satellites come in two sizes and finished in a scratch-resistant white or black high gloss lacquer. They deliver a wide frequency response for seamless integration with a subwoofer.  

Three models of matching active subwoofers are offered in power outputs of 200W, 300W and 500W. Small and stylish and beautifully finished, they feature DSP for deep bass with low distortion. Also available in scratch-resistant white or black high gloss lacquer, all three subwoofers feature one piece aerospace grade aluminum cones which move air with incredible efficiency. Passive radiators instead of more common bass ports deliver loud, deep, low distortion bass – without ‘chuffing’ from the smallest possible enclosures.