Wireless hifi systems are no longer a taboo subject in the audiophile community. While the traditional wired setups are still seems to be the reference, wireless systems have its own place in the community. Some wireless systems can even be at par or exceed it of a wired systems. One of them that has landed in my den is the Capella; by Triangle HiFi.
Built solidly in a gorgeous glossy finish, equipped with its own mini isolation stands for a quick table top set up, this system is another example of wireless done right. As oppose to other wireless speakers such as the KEF LS50, the Capella comes with a separate dedicated master input unit called the Stereo Hub.
SETTING UP
In this modern world, one of the test in my requirement is the set up process. Anything that is too complicated and takes more than 10 mins is a big no-no for me. Glad to report that it only took the Capella 5 minutes to be fully connected to my home network.
THE INS AND OUTS
The Capella is a very digital based system with 3 optical, 1 coax, 1 USB ins but its not short of analogue as well with 1 pair of RCA and 1 of 3.5 mm aux input. It can also be connected to a TV with a HDMI ARC. On the wireless connectivity, there is Bluetooth and WiFi.
THE SPECS
This active speakers comes with a total power output of 2 x 100 W where each driver has its own converter and a dedicated 50W amplification circuit. It is also equipped with its own DSP that adapts to the the driver behaviour to deliver at the peak of the system potential.
The system also offers auto calibration to your listening area. Works well with iPhone microphone but for Android user, a Zen microphone needs to be purchase separately.
One big plus point for me is that it comes with its own app. I am quite fussy on this based on my previous experience of streamers that depends on 3rd party apps. You can also control the unit using the supplied rather nifty remote control.
As I see this system to be more of a lifestyle system, I have combined the usual test tracks with some daily music I listen to.
- Take Five - Kenichi Tsunoda Big Band
- The Sound of Silence - The Ghost of Johnny Cash
- Soolaiman - Neil Young
- The Moon Represents My Heart - Zhao Peng
- If I Can Dream - Elvis Presley
With the Take Five rendition by The Kenichi Tsunoda Big Band, the Capella hit the right notes and dynamics as it really made me swing listening to this track. It managed to present a lively ambient and filled my dining area with a very energetic presence. The wind instrument was in perfect harmony with the low frequency spectrum, creating an impactful presentation.
On The Sound of Silence, the presentation sounds really huge and it really envelopes me in an immersive experience. The deep voice of David Radcliffe (I believe he is the singer of The Ghost of Johnny Cash) sounded really deep on the Capella, given the size of the speakers. Even the higher notes sounded full of dynamics and blended well as one coherent presentation. I can't pinpoint whether this system leans towards either side of the spectrum. Quite balanced in many ways.
While the Capella seems to be quite neutral, it does not mean it cannot belt out a heavy thumping bass sound. The percussion into on Soolaiman, it digs deep into the sound of the tom toms and at the same time, the sound of the snare and vocal remains to be sharp and melodious respectively. On this particular track, I really like that the Capella remains to be true to the original sound of Neil Diamond.
On the Chinese track by Zhao Peng, this is when my attention was at the peak as the Capella presented a sound that really pulled me into an emotional state. The soothing voice of Zhao Peng just flow right through my whole body regardless that it was not in a language that I can really understand. This is what I call a scenario where the music really spoke to me.
Now, on the last track by Elvis, this track supposed to be emotional as well as uplifting. I mean, he is The King of Rock & Roll. This is where I feel that the Capella felt a bit short with regards the energy on track like this. I could do with a little bit more power to elevate the 'struggle' that Elvis faced at that time. It was still immersive but not enough for me.
THE CONCLUSION
The Cappella is one capable wireless system. It offers both elegant looks and sound. The overall sound is neutral to me but it does not mean it is incapable to surface up the lows and highs when it is needed. The system is also very user friendly and connectivity is abundance.
Where does it fair better? Against a conventional wired hifi or wireless lifestyle set up?
My answer is both. To me, the primary offering by Capella is the lifestyle set up with full flexibility on where to place the speakers and also to hide the main hub. However, I have no doubt, given a decent speaker stands and placement similar to a conventional system, it can deliver an at par experience.
The Capella can be demoed at The Expert Group Malaysia, located on Level 2, The Gardens Mall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, KL.
The Expert Group team will also be part of the upcoming Kuala Lumpur International AV show 2024, to be held at The Gardens Hotel from Friday 25th to Sunday 27th Oct (10 am to 7 pm)
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