Description

The Sonus faber Olympica I represent Italian excellence in the field of bookshelf hi-fi speakers , combining the brand's classic elegance with cutting-edge technologies developed for its reference models. These high-end standmount monitors feature an asymmetrical natural walnut cabinet with maple stringers, finished in black leather, which not only offers a superior aesthetic impact but also optimizes the distribution of resonances thanks to the triple curvature and the differentiated thicknesses of the internal walls.

The sonic heart of the Olympica I is a 29mm DAD 29XTR2 tweeter with a damped apex dome and neodymium magnet, combined with a 150mm mid/woofer with a cellulose, kapok, and kenaf cone treated with an anti-resonance viscous material. The 2.500Hz para-cross crossover , derived from the Aida and Guarneri Evolution models, guarantees extremely clean, resolute reproduction free from distortion or dynamic compression. How to choose standmount speakers for a reference stereo system? The Olympica I require an amplifier with at least 40 real watts with an organic rather than analytical character, to best express a bright, coherent timbre slightly shifted towards the mid-high frequencies. The aperiodic-resistive slot-based paralaminar stealth flow ventilation system , based on Onken and Jensen concepts, ensures controlled and natural low-end extension.

Dedicated aluminum stands are included and designed to integrate seamlessly with the speakers, with steel spikes of varying heights that tilt the tweeter towards the optimal listening point. The overall finish and attention to detail, from the rhodium-plated terminals to the die-cast woofer frame, confirm the construction standard that has made Sonus faber a global benchmark among premium bookshelf speakers . Ideal for medium-sized home environments, the Olympica I allow music to take center stage, visually disappearing into the room thanks to their refined design and offering sonic performance worthy of a true hi-fi reference monitor.

Specifications

Diffuser type	passive
Sensitivity	87 dB
Nominal impedance	4 ohm
Frequency response	50Hz - 30.000Hz
Route configuration	2
Cabinet type	aperiodic
Tweet	DAD 29XTR2 Arrow Point with 29mm damped apex dome, neodymium magnet
Woofer	MW15XTR 150mm, cellulose, kapok, kenaf membrane with anti-resonance viscous coating, copper-clad aluminum voice coil
Crossover frequency	2500 Hz
Maximum manageable power	150
Cabinet material	natural walnut with maple stringers, black leather upholstery
Connectors	double pair of rhodium-plated terminals, compatible with bi-wiring and bi-amping
Dimensions (WxHxD)	354 x 222 x 368 mm
Weight	9.5 kg
Trim	natural walnut with maple inserts and black leather upholstery

About the brand

Sonus faber represents Italian excellence in the world of high-end hi-fi speakers, founded in 1983 in Vicenza by Franco Serblin. The Veneto-based brand positions itself in the luxury segment of the international audiophile market, combining traditional Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge technological innovation to create speakers that are true works of sonic art.

Sonus faber's corporate philosophy is founded on the concept of "Natural Sound," the pursuit of the most natural and immersive reproduction of music possible. Franco Serblin, a trained violin maker, has applied the ancient art of violin making to the design of loudspeakers, using select fine woods such as Canaletto walnut and ebony to create cabinets with controlled resonance. Each speaker is born from a skillful combination of acoustic science and artisanal craftsmanship, following production processes that require weeks of manual labor. The company maintains its roots firmly in the Veneto region, where each speaker is hand-assembled by master cabinetmakers who pass down centuries-old techniques. Acoustic research focuses on the creation of transducers capable of conveying the warmth and emotion of live music, respecting the natural timbre of the instruments and the spatiality of the original musical event. Since 2007, Sonus faber has been part of the McIntosh group, while maintaining its Italian design and manufacturing identity.

Distinctive Sonus faber technologies include the Stealth Reflex system, an innovative woofer loading system that eliminates the turbulence typical of traditional reflex systems through a variable geometry duct integrated into the speaker structure. The Paracross crossover uses selected components and proprietary circuits to ensure perfect coherence of fase between the transducers, while Natural Sound technology features natural silk tweeters with a smooth response and no annoying resonances. The solid wood cabinets are treated with eco-friendly varnishes and high-thickness finishes that help control internal resonances. Materials research has led to the development of treated cellulose fiber speaker membranes, capable of delivering a particularly natural and musical timbre. Each series integrates proprietary drivers specifically developed to optimize the acoustic characteristics of each model.

The Sonus faber product range is divided into several collections that cover a broad spectrum of audiophile needs. Floorstanding speakers represent the brand's core business, available in two-, three-, and four-way configurations to suit listening environments of varying sizes. Bookshelf speakers offer more compact solutions while maintaining high quality standards, ideal for those seeking reference performance in small spaces. The range also includes next-generation active speakers that integrate high-quality amplification and digital processing. To complete the offering, the catalog features speaker centers for multichannel systems and subwoofers designed for integration into reference stereo systems.

The Homage collection represents the pinnacle of production with the Amati and Stradivari series, floorstanding speakers that use hand-carved solid wood cabinets and state-of-the-art proprietary drivers. The Olympica line offers technologies derived from the top-of-the-range series in a more accessible format, while the Sonetto is aimed at enthusiasts approaching the world of Sonus faber for the first time. The Lumina series offers compact speakers with a contemporary design that retains the brand's signature sound. Each collection maintains the distinctive Italian aesthetic with fine wood finishes and handcrafted metal details. Palladio speakers represent the perfect synthesis of tradition and innovation, using aluminum drivers and fabric tweeters for an extremely linear response across the entire audio spectrum.

The international audio press has recognized Sonus faber's excellence with numerous prestigious awards. Stereophile magazine has awarded "Product of the Year" honors to several models in the range, while What Hi-Fi has repeatedly recognized the Vicenza-based brand's speakers in the luxury category. Audiophile Magazine's reviews have highlighted the exceptional tonal qualities and emotional engagement of Sonus faber speakers. Audiophile critics particularly praise the consistent sound across all models in the range and the ability to adapt to different musical genres while maintaining a distinctive and recognizable character. Magazines such as Audio and HiFi News have emphasized the excellent value for money of the entry-level series, acclaiming the democratization of Italian audio excellence.

Sonus faber's target audience includes discerning audiophiles, collectors, and music enthusiasts seeking speakers that combine benchmark technical performance with exclusive design. The price range extends from entry-level models in the Lumina series priced around €1.500 to flagship models in the Homage collection costing over €100.000. Typical buyers are music professionals, high-fidelity collectors, and design enthusiasts who appreciate objects with both aesthetic and functional value. The brand attracts those who want to stand out with exclusive Made in Italy products, recognizing the speaker not only as a musical reproduction instrument but also as a furnishing accessory of artistic value.

The Italian distribution relies on a select network of specialized high-fidelity retailers, supported by a direct technical service that guarantees excellent after-sales assistance. Audiocostruzioni represents a privileged distribution partner for Sonus faber, offering specific expertise on the Veneto brand's floorstanding and bookshelf speakers. Technical assistance extends to consulting for matching the transistor and tube integrated amplifiers best suited to the characteristics of each model. For reference systems, configurations with dedicated power amplifiers and audiophile-class pre- and power amplifiers are recommended. Integration with quality sources such as turntables and CD/SACD/DVD players completes the optimal listening experience with Sonus faber speakers.

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