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Cabasse Murano Review: Compact Luxury with French Acoustic Excellence
Cabasse, a name synonymous with French innovation in high-fidelity audio, has a legacy rooted in acoustic research and cutting-edge design dating back to 1950. Based in Brittany, Cabasse has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio engineering, earning global respect for their unique approach to loudspeaker design. The Cabasse Murano, part of their high-end speaker lineup, embodies the brand's commitment to exceptional sound quality and compact versatility. Positioned below their flagship models like the Baltic V but above their entry-level ranges, the Murano strikes a balance between luxury and practicality, making it a sought-after choice for discerning audiophiles.
TL;DR
- Compact standmount speakers blending high-end technology from Cabasse's flagship models.
- Tri-coaxial midrange-tweeter ensures pinpoint imaging and seamless frequency integration.
- Excellent bass response thanks to proprietary honeycomb woofers and compact design.
- Impressive clarity and dynamics, ideal for audiophiles with medium-sized listening spaces.
- Premium build and modern aesthetics to complement high-end interiors.
Design and Build
The Cabasse Murano strikes an elegant balance between form and function. Despite its compact design (330mm tall, 240mm wide, 300mm deep), these standmount speakers exude a premium feel. The cabinet is constructed with high-density materials to minimize resonance, and the overall build quality is impeccable, adhering to the high standards Cabasse is known for.
The Murano is available in several finishes, including gloss black, gloss white, and a rich mahogany, ensuring it seamlessly integrates into a variety of interiors. The curved edges and minimalist aesthetic make it a visually appealing addition to any room. The front baffle is sleek and houses the iconic Cabasse tri-coaxial driver, framed by two honeycomb woofers. The rear port is neatly integrated, aiding in extended bass performance without adding bulk.
Cabasse has also included magnetic grilles for those who prefer a more understated look, though many users will likely leave them off to admire the drivers. Overall, the Murano speakers are a testament to Cabasse’s attention to detail in both aesthetics and engineering.
Technical Characteristics
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | 3-way standmount speaker |
| Drivers | Tri-coaxial midrange-tweeter, 2 x 17cm honeycomb woofers |
| Frequency Response | 55 Hz – 24 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 87 dB |
| Impedance | 8 ohms (nominal) |
| Power Handling | 150W (peak) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 330 x 240 x 300 mm |
| Weight | 13 kg each |
| Finish Options | Gloss Black, Gloss White, Mahogany |
Acoustic Performance
The Cabasse Murano’s sound signature is a testament to the brand’s expertise in acoustic engineering. Professional reviewers consistently praise its ability to deliver a highly detailed, dynamic, and cohesive soundstage. The standout feature is the tri-coaxial driver, a hallmark of Cabasse's design philosophy, which ensures exceptional phase coherence and pinpoint imaging.
The tweeter, integrated into the tri-coaxial array, delivers crisp and extended highs without becoming harsh or fatiguing, even at higher volume levels. The midrange is smooth and natural, making vocals and acoustic instruments shine with lifelike clarity. The dual 17cm honeycomb woofers provide surprisingly deep and controlled bass for a speaker of this size, thanks to their rigid yet lightweight construction. According to reviews on Haute Fidelité and What Hi-Fi, the Murano excels in rendering tight, punchy bass that doesn’t overpower the mids or highs.
Its soundstage is expansive, with excellent depth and width, ideal for recreating the feel of a live performance. Whether you’re listening to orchestral compositions or modern electronic tracks, the Murano delivers an immersive experience. However, its limited frequency response at the lower end (55 Hz) means it may benefit from pairing with a high-quality subwoofer for those who crave deep, room-shaking bass. Stereophile notes that the Murano performs best in medium-sized rooms where its sound can fully develop without overwhelming the space.
User Feedback
Users on forums like Home Cinema FR and What Hi-Fi generally echo the sentiments of professional reviewers, highlighting the Murano’s clarity, imaging, and premium build quality. Many are impressed by how much bass these compact speakers produce, often exceeding expectations for their size. The tri-coaxial driver is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, offering a listening experience that feels cohesive and natural.
Some users note that the Murano requires careful placement and a well-matched amplifier to shine. Its 87 dB sensitivity means it may benefit from a more powerful amp to fully exploit its dynamic range. A few owners have also mentioned that while the Murano is excellent for most genres, those seeking ultra-deep bass for electronic or cinematic content might want to consider adding a subwoofer.
Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many audiophiles considering the Murano a worthwhile investment for its price point.
Conclusion
The Cabasse Murano is a true gem in the high-end standmount speaker category. It combines cutting-edge technology, such as the tri-coaxial driver and honeycomb woofers, with elegant design and robust build quality. Its clarity, imaging, and dynamic performance make it a standout choice for audiophiles looking for compact speakers that don’t compromise on sound quality.
While its bass response is impressive for its size, it may not satisfy those who demand subwoofer-level depth. Additionally, its relatively low sensitivity means pairing it with a high-quality amplifier is crucial. For medium-sized rooms and listeners who value sonic precision and aesthetic elegance, the Murano is hard to beat.
Alternatives
For those exploring other French-made loudspeakers in this price range, here are some worthy contenders:
- Focal Sopra No1: Offers remarkable detail and dynamic range with a similar compact, high-end design.
- Triangle Magellan Duetto: Known for their open, airy sound and luxurious build quality.
- Elipson Prestige Facet 8B: A slightly more affordable option with excellent tonal balance and musicality.
- Jean-Marie Reynaud Bliss Jubilee: A great choice for those who prioritize warmth and natural sound.
- Apertura Armonia: Renowned for their coherence and transparency in a sleek, modern design.
References
- Cabasse Official Website – Murano
- Haute Fidelité Review
- What Hi-Fi Review
- Stereophile Review
- Home Cinema FR Forums
- What Hi-Fi Forums
