Is having style in one’s life a lifestyle?
So many words are bad words in some (dark) corners of our wonderful hifi hobby and there’s nothing that triggers some of our more uptight members than lifestyle—as if caring about anything but sound is a cardinal hifi sin. Phooey!
NYC-based clothing company Adsum have teamed up with ELAC to bring some of their style to the new Debut ConneX, a powered speaker that stands 9″ tall but promises Big Sound. The Adsum/ELAC collaboration takes ELAC’s DCB41 powered speaker and adds magnetic grilles, tubular (Breuer-like) stands, squared off corners, a custom off-white paint job and a bespoke remote control.
The Debut ConneX offers a number of connectivity options including HDMI ARC, Analog/Phono, Optical, USB and Bluetooth while an internal 50 Watt amp that lives in the active speaker and feeds the passive speaker via a length of included cable drives the 3/4″ Soft Dome tweeters and 4 1/2″ Polypropylene woofers. Frequency response is rated at 50hz—25,000hz In-Room.
The Small Speaker, Big Sound Debut ConneX bookshelf speakers run $649.98/pair and will be available starting March 14, 2024 exclusively from Crutchfield, B&H, and ELAC.COM.
Here’s the complete press release:
ELAC and Adsum Announce Powered Speaker Collaboration
March 12th, 2024 – ELAC is excited to announce a partnership with the Brooklyn-based fashion label ADSUM, culminating in the creation of a special edition for the acclaimed Debut ConneX bookshelf speakers. This collaboration infuses the Debut ConneX with a unique blend of minimalist design and high-fidelity audio. The result is a set of bookshelf speakers that offer the straightforward functionality and convenience of a soundbar while delivering the superior sound quality and visual appeal expected from top-tier powered speakers.
“ELAC and ADSUM’s partnership melds advanced audio engineering with urban streetwear aesthetics, setting new standards for style and acoustics,” stated Joe Riggi, CEO of ELAC Americas Inc.
The collaboration between Adsum and ELAC transcends mere cosmetic changes; it represents a comprehensive redesign. Adsum spearheaded the transformation, introducing an exclusive tubular metal stand and magnetic detachable grilles. The design overhaul also features a modernized aesthetic with squared-off edges, freshly painted cabinets, and a bespoke remote control, complemented by custom-colored cables to complete the distinctive look.
The Debut ConneX were designed to be the ultimate audio companion for the space-conscious city dweller. Its array of inputs makes it adaptable for everything from cinematic viewing and video gaming to DJing and hosting last-minute gatherings. Compact enough to blend into any space, yet powerful enough to fill your apartment with rich, neighbor-rousing sound, it’s the ideal speaker set for the city lifestyle.
Debut ConneX Designer Series Features:
HDMI ARC Support: Simply connect the HDMI ARC output from your compatible television and your TV’s remote control will now control the volume of the Debut ConneX speakers, simplifying operation.
Vinyl Support: The Debut ConneX speakers have a built-in phono stage ensuring that almost any turntable can be connected and enjoyed. If you already have a dedicated phono pre-amp the built-in phono stage can be defeated with the flick of a switch.
USB Input: The USB connection on the Debut ConneX speakers delivers a digital connection to your PC so that all your music and movie content is not compromised. No drivers are necessary for both Windows and macOS and the volume of the speakers can now be controlled with the PC. High-resolution content up to 96Khz 24-bit is supported.
Bluetooth Support with aptX: The Bluetooth receiver built-in to the speakers supports the aptX codec allowing for CD-quality audio streaming from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers. In conjunction with High-resolution streaming services such as Qobuz, Tidal, and Amazon Music HD, you can enjoy CD-quality music wirelessly.
Subwoofer Output: A dedicated subwoofer output allows for connection to a powered subwoofer delivering improved bass response for both movies and music.
The new Debut ConneX Designer Series speakers (DCB41-DS) will launch on March 14th for $649.98 exclusively at Crutchfield, B&H, and ELAC.COM.
ABOUT ELAC
Founded in Kiel, Germany – 1926
ELAC is a German high-fidelity audio company focused on high quality design and manufacturing. Characterized by meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, ELAC products consistently deliver immersive and lifelike sound experiences across a diverse range of applications. ELAC continues to captivate music enthusiasts, professionals, and audiophiles worldwide, earning its place as a trusted leader in the audio industry.
Specifications
Speaker Type: Bass Reflex / Powered
Amplifier Power: 50 Watts X 2
Tweeter: 3/4” Soft Dome
Woofer: 4 1/2” Polypropylene
Frequency Response: 66hz—25,000hz (Anechoic) | 50hz—25,000hz (In-Room)
Inputs: HDMI (Arc) X 1, Line / Phone (Switchable) X 1, USB (96khz 24-Bit) X 1, Optical X 1, Bluetooth (Aptx)
Outputs: Subwoofer and Speaker
Remote Control: Yes (Infrared)
Included Accessories: Remote Control, Batteries, HDMI Cable, Speaker Wire, Power Cord, Rubber Feet, Grilles
Firmware Upgradeable: Yes (USB)
Maximum System Output: 102db @ 1m
Voltage: 120—240 Volts
Dimensions (W X H X D): 5-1/2” X 9-5/8” X 8” Each Speaker
Weight: 7.6lbs (Powered Speaker) / 6.3lbs (Passive Speaker)