In the realm of high-fidelity audio, innovation often takes center stage. The quest for a more perfect, more realistic sound reproduction drives manufacturers to explore new materials, new technologies, and new approaches to speaker design. Lansche Audio, a German company with a rich history of innovation, has embraced this quest with its unique CORONA plasma tweeter. This technology, which uses ionized gas to produce sound, sets Lansche speakers apart, offering a listening experience unlike any other. This exploration of Lansche Audio will uncover the science behind the plasma tweeter, its impact on sound quality, and what makes these speakers a compelling choice for serious audiophiles. We’ll also consider the practical aspects of owning Lansche speakers, including room acoustics, placement, and the long-term investment they represent.
Key Takeaways
- Lansche Audio stands out with its unique tweeter: Their CORONA plasma tweeter uses ionized gas, not a vibrating diaphragm, to create sound. This results in remarkably clear high frequencies and a detailed soundstage.
- These speakers are for the serious audiophile: Lansche combines innovative technology with meticulous craftsmanship. They’re built to last and offer a distinct listening experience, but they come at a premium price.
- Room acoustics are crucial: The responsiveness of the plasma tweeter requires a well-treated listening room and careful speaker placement to avoid a bright or dull sound. Consider this and the tweeter’s maintenance needs before purchasing.
What is Lansche Audio?
Lansche Audio is a German loudspeaker company known for its innovative plasma tweeters. Founded by Rüdiger Lansche, an electrical engineer and violinist, the company has been designing loudspeakers for over 40 years. The plasma tweeter, at the heart of many Lansche speaker models, uses ionized gas to produce sound. This distinctive approach creates exceptionally clear high-frequency reproduction, enriching the speakers’ overall sound quality. Lansche Audio acquired the rights to the corona-plasma tweeter in 1999 and has since made this technology a key feature of its product line. This dedication to high-fidelity sound and innovative design has earned Lansche recognition from audiophiles and industry experts, establishing the company as a respected name in premium audio. Lansche Audio products are available through authorized distributors like High End by Oz in North America. Reviews of Lansche speakers offer further insight into the brand’s performance and sound quality.
Lansche’s CORONA Plasma Tweeter: How it Works
Lansche Audio is known for its unique tweeter technology: the CORONA plasma tweeter. Unlike traditional dome tweeters that use vibrating diaphragms, the CORONA tweeter generates sound using a high-voltage electrical discharge, a bit like a tiny lightning bolt. This distinctive approach offers several advantages and contributes to the signature Lansche sound.
How the Plasma Tweeter Works
The CORONA plasma tweeter creates sound by modulating a plasma arc. This arc heats the surrounding air, causing it to rapidly expand and contract. By varying the electrical signal sent to the tweeter from the audio amplifier, the size of the plasma arc changes, modulating the air pressure and producing sound waves. Think of it as a controlled, miniature explosion of air creating the high frequencies you hear. This method of sound generation differs significantly from traditional tweeters, setting Lansche speakers apart. You can learn more about the general principles behind plasma speakers on Wikipedia.
Advantages of Plasma Tweeters
The CORONA plasma tweeter offers several benefits. First, it contributes to a more comprehensive and detailed soundstage. Even instruments that typically produce lower frequencies, like a double bass, generate subtle high-frequency sounds from the musician’s interaction with the instrument. The plasma tweeter’s sensitivity captures these nuances, adding a layer of realism and depth to the music. Lansche states this tweeter has a “positive effect on the whole sound picture.” Second, the technology itself is relatively unique in the high-end audio market. As noted by The Absolute Sound, Lansche acquired the rights to this technology in 1999 and has integrated it into their speaker designs, making them stand out among other premium audio brands. This commitment to a less common technology, with a history dating back to 1900, showcases Lansche’s dedication to innovation in sound reproduction.
Lansche Speakers: A Premium Sound Experience
Sound Quality and Performance
Lansche speakers are known for their exceptional sound, thanks to the innovative CORONA plasma tweeter. This tweeter uses a high-voltage electrical discharge to create sound, resulting in highly detailed and accurate high-frequency reproduction. Unlike traditional dome tweeters, the plasma tweeter has virtually no mass, allowing it to respond to audio signals with speed and precision. This creates a clearer, more transparent sound with exceptional detail. As the Lansche Audio website explains, even the subtle high-frequency sounds from a double bass, like a string scratch or finger tap, are faithfully reproduced by the plasma tweeter, adding to a realistic sonic picture. This technology has a long history, dating back to the early 1900s, but it’s not common in audio. Lansche acquired the rights to a corona-plasma tweeter in 1999 and has built its reputation around this technology, as noted in a review from The Absolute Sound.
Design and Build
Lansche speakers show a commitment to technical innovation and refined aesthetics. Co-founder Rudiger Lansche, an electrical engineer and violinist, has over 40 years of experience in speaker development. His passion for music influences every aspect of Lansche speaker design, as detailed in an article by Positive Feedback. The speakers often use high-quality drivers, like glass-fiber woofers and polypropylene midrange drivers, paired with the signature CORONA plasma tweeter. The cabinets are carefully crafted, often with premium materials, to minimize vibrations. This attention to detail ensures the speakers deliver a clean, accurate sound. A review of the Tokyo International Audio Show in The Absolute Sound describes the Lansche 5.1 floorstander’s rich and lively sound, a result of the plasma tweeter’s performance.
Popular Lansche Speaker Models
Lansche Audio offers a range of high-end speakers, each designed with the company’s signature plasma tweeter. Let’s look at some popular models.
No.3.2 Series
Lansche acquired the rights to a corona-plasma tweeter in 1999, and the No.3.2 series is a testament to this innovative technology. As one of Lansche’s more compact models, the 3.2 series is a solid option for those seeking high-quality sound in a smaller form factor. This model, like all Lansche speakers, features the distinctive CORONA plasma tweeter. You can learn more about this tweeter in our section on Lansche’s CORONA Plasma Tweeter.
No.5.2 Series
The No.5.2 series gained recognition at the 2024 Florida International Audio Expo (FLAX). Reviewers lauded the 5.2 speakers for their remarkable clarity and immersive sound, comparing the experience to music “coming through an open window accompanied by a breeze.” This pt.AUDIO review offers a detailed account of the speaker’s performance.
No.7.2 Series
Though not a 7.2 model specifically, a close relative, the Lansche 5.1 three-way floorstander, showcases the strengths of the plasma tweeter. With its combination of woofers, a midrange driver, and the signature 0.3-inch Corona plasma tweeter, this speaker creates a rich, vibrant sound without any harshness in the high frequencies. This review from The Absolute Sound highlights the smooth, detailed sound the plasma tweeter delivers. For those interested in learning more about different speaker types, our guide to speaker types offers helpful information.
No.9.2 Series
The No.9.2 series represents Lansche Audio’s commitment to high-fidelity audio. These speakers, like all Lansche models, use the proprietary CORONA plasma tweeter, valued by audiophiles and professional recording studios for its precision and clarity. You can find more information about Lansche’s technology on their official website.
The Lansche Listening Experience
Three-Dimensional Soundscape
Lansche Audio’s plasma tweeter creates a remarkable three-dimensional soundscape. The CORONA plasma tweeter impacts the entire sonic picture. Every instrument, even a double bass, produces higher frequencies from actions like scratching or striking. These subtle sounds, captured by the plasma tweeter, add depth and realism. The result is a more immersive and detailed sound environment, where each instrument occupies a distinct position within the soundstage. You’ll hear the music as if you’re present in the room with the musicians. This precise placement of instruments contributes to a richer, more engaging experience. Learn more about this technology.
High-Frequency Precision and Clarity
Lansche Audio is known for its dedication to high-frequency precision, evident in their use of plasma transducers. This technology, with roots dating back to 1900, has been refined by Lansche to achieve exceptional audio quality. As one review highlights, the company acquired the rights to a corona-plasma tweeter and has since designed numerous loudspeaker models around this unique component. This design choice allows remarkable clarity in high-frequency sounds, ensuring every musical detail is faithfully reproduced. The plasma tweeter’s precision captures nuances often missed by traditional tweeters, resulting in a more accurate and transparent sound. Co-founder Rudiger Lansche’s background in electrical engineering and his development of the plasma tweeter further solidify the company’s expertise. This deep understanding of audio technology has resulted in speakers that sound exceptional and push the boundaries of high-fidelity audio. You can read more about Rudiger Lansche and the company’s history.
Choosing Lansche Speakers: What to Consider
Lansche speakers are an investment. Understanding their unique characteristics will help you decide if they’re the right fit for your listening space and budget.
Room Acoustics and Speaker Placement
The defining feature of Lansche speakers is the CORONA plasma tweeter. Unlike traditional dome tweeters, this tweeter uses ionized air to produce sound, resulting in incredibly detailed high frequencies. This technology impacts how you should approach room acoustics and speaker placement. Because the plasma tweeter is so responsive, it’s essential to consider how your room’s surfaces will reflect sound. A room that’s too reflective can create a bright, harsh sound, while a room that’s too absorptive can dull the sound. Experiment with speaker placement to find the sweet spot where the sound is balanced and natural. The plasma tweeter’s unique properties can even reveal subtle high-frequency details from instruments you might not expect, like a double bass. This sensitivity makes careful room treatment critical for the best listening experience. Placement and room setup are key to maximizing the performance of these speakers.
Budget and Value
Lansche speakers occupy the luxury audio market. The innovative plasma tweeter technology developed by company co-founder, Rudiger Lansche, contributes to their premium price. While the initial cost is high, consider the long-term value. These speakers are built to last, and their unique technology offers a listening experience unlike any other. If you’re looking for a truly high-end system and appreciate the nuances of high-resolution audio, Lansche speakers might be a worthwhile investment. Think of them not just as a purchase, but as a long-term commitment to exceptional sound.
Potential Drawbacks of Lansche Products
While Lansche audio systems offer a unique listening experience, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before investing in this high-end technology.
Plasma Tweeter Lifespan and Maintenance
One consideration with plasma tweeters is the lifespan of the electrodes. These electrodes can erode over time, eventually affecting performance and requiring replacement. This potential issue is a recurring topic in online discussions, such as those on the Audio Science Review forum. For audiophiles who value long-lasting equipment, this maintenance aspect is worth considering.
Ozone Production Concerns
Another factor to consider with plasma tweeters is ozone production. The tweeter creates small amounts of ozone, a gas that can be harmful in poorly ventilated areas. This characteristic is a valid concern for users sensitive to air quality, or those who listen in enclosed spaces.
Price
Lansche products occupy the luxury end of the audio market. The Lansche Audio 5.2 loudspeakers, for example, retail for $57,000 per pair. This substantial investment may price them out of reach for many music lovers.
How Lansche Compares to Other Premium Brands
Lansche Audio occupies a unique space in the high-end audio market. Its defining feature, the CORONA plasma tweeter, sets it apart from brands like Focal, Magico, and Wilson Audio, which typically use conventional dome tweeters made from materials like beryllium or diamond. While these materials aim for speed and accuracy, the plasma tweeter takes a different approach, producing the airiness and delicate nuances of high-frequency sounds. Think of it like the difference between a finely tuned race car and a glider—both achieve high performance, but through different means.
This difference creates a distinct listening experience. Lansche speakers are known for their exceptionally detailed and smooth high frequencies, often described as effortless and non-fatiguing. Reviewers have praised this quality, noting the absence of harshness or brightness that can sometimes affect traditional tweeters. Other premium brands, while achieving impressive clarity and detail, may not replicate the same airy, open presentation that distinguishes Lansche. This characteristic makes Lansche a compelling choice for listeners who value a natural, lifelike sound, particularly with acoustic music or recordings that emphasize high-frequency detail. One reviewer noted the rich, lively sound of a Lansche system, highlighting the tweeter’s contribution.
Beyond the tweeter, Lansche’s design philosophy further distinguishes it. The company’s founder, Rudiger Lansche, brings decades of engineering experience and a passion for music to the brand. This focus on innovation and craftsmanship is reflected in the meticulous construction and high-quality components used in Lansche speakers. While other premium brands also emphasize quality, Lansche’s unique technology and specialized manufacturing process place it in a category of its own. The history of plasma transducer technology, combined with Lansche’s modern implementation, creates a compelling story for audiophiles seeking something beyond the conventional. The Absolute Sound explored this history in detail, tracing the plasma tweeter’s origins back to 1900.
Is Lansche Right for You?
Lansche Audio occupies a unique space in the high-end audio world. Its use of plasma tweeter technology sets it apart, delivering a sound some describe as unlike anything else. But this innovative approach comes with certain considerations. Are Lansche speakers the right fit for your listening experience? Let’s explore.
If you’re an audiophile who values accuracy and detail, particularly in the high frequencies, Lansche’s CORONA plasma tweeter might be intriguing. This technology reproduces high frequencies with exceptional speed and precision, capturing nuances often missed by traditional tweeters. Think of the subtle shimmer of a cymbal or the delicate airiness of a flute—a plasma tweeter excels at revealing these details. This results in a soundstage often described as incredibly realistic and three-dimensional, placing you right in the middle of the musical performance. You can learn more about this in our section on the Lansche listening experience.
However, Lansche speakers demand careful consideration. They require a dedicated listening room with proper acoustics to truly shine. Speaker placement is crucial, and you might need to experiment to find the optimal position for your specific room. Our speaker placement guide offers some helpful tips. Additionally, Lansche speakers are an investment. Their premium design, build quality, and cutting-edge technology come at a significant cost. Consider your budget and whether the potential sonic benefits align with your spending priorities. We discuss the potential drawbacks, including price, in more detail in the drawbacks section.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase Lansche speakers is a personal one. If you prioritize a highly detailed and immersive listening experience and are willing to invest the time and resources required to optimize your setup, then Lansche might be a perfect match. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or prefer a different sonic signature, other high-end brands might be a better fit. You can learn more about how Lansche compares to other brands in our comparison section.
Related Articles
- Eminent Technology: High-End Audio Explained – Supermarket Sound
- Luxman: High-End Audio Explained – Supermarket Sound
- Klipsch La Scala Speakers: Sound Vs. Space – Supermarket Sound
- MartinLogan Speakers: Are They Worth The Hype? – Supermarket Sound
- Leon Speakers: Handcrafted Audio & Design Excellence – Supermarket Sound
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Lansche speakers different?
Lansche speakers stand out because of their CORONA plasma tweeter. This tweeter uses a high-voltage electrical discharge to create sound, unlike the vibrating diaphragms in most tweeters. This unique approach results in exceptionally detailed and accurate high-frequency reproduction, giving Lansche speakers their distinctive sound.
Are Lansche speakers worth the investment?
Lansche speakers are a high-end purchase. They offer a unique listening experience with exceptional detail and clarity, particularly in the high frequencies. However, they also require a well-treated listening room and careful speaker placement to perform their best. If you prioritize a truly high-fidelity sound and are willing to invest the time and resources to optimize your setup, Lansche speakers can be a worthwhile long-term investment.
What is a plasma tweeter, and how does it work?
A plasma tweeter generates sound using a high-voltage electrical discharge to ionize gas, creating a plasma arc. Modulating this arc creates the sound waves you hear. Unlike traditional tweeters with physical diaphragms, the plasma arc has virtually no mass, allowing it to respond to audio signals with incredible speed and precision. This results in a clearer, more transparent sound, especially in the high frequencies.
Where can I buy Lansche speakers?
Lansche Audio products are available through authorized distributors. In North America, the official distributor is High End by Oz. Contact them or visit their website for information on purchasing Lansche speakers.
What are some of the potential downsides of owning Lansche speakers?
While Lansche speakers offer exceptional sound quality, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The plasma tweeter’s electrodes can erode over time and require replacement. The tweeter also produces small amounts of ozone, which might be a concern for some users. Finally, Lansche speakers are expensive, representing a significant investment in high-end audio.
