French audio company Devialet’s new Gold Phantom speaker is ludicrously powerful. Billed as “powerful as a speaker 20 times its size,” it apparently increases the maximum air pressure inside of its shell to a level comparable with that of a rocket launch, making it one serious piece of kit.
Officially unveiled in Paris earlier today, the Gold Phantom is definitely a luxury speaker considering its high price tag of $2,990, but it packs a formidable punch. Capable of reaching volumes of 108 decibels and with 4,500 watts of power under its belt, the Gold Phantom is also capable of reaching an ultrasonic frequency of 27kHz, which is so high that it isn’t even comprehensible by the human ear. It can also drop down to 14kHz which, again, you won’t be able to hear, but will probably give you an uncomfortable churning sensation in the pit of your stomach if that’s your thing.
There are two other models of the speaker available – the 3,000 watt Silver Phantom and the 750 watt Phantom – but the Gold Phantom is almost certainly where it’s at for audiophiles who want a speaker as impressive as it is vaguely terrifying. Fortunately its almighty power is housed in a very stylish exterior, adorned with actual 22-carat rose gold, because why the hell not.
Considering all of this it’s somewhat surprising, then, that the Gold Phantom boasts a portable design, with Devialet placing its speaker on its spherical face in order to provide a “combination of the best music reproduction with an optimal sound directivity pattern.” The company also claims that this is the first ever totally wireless sound center at its price point.
Though a definite luxury item, the Gold Phantom is an impressive speaker that successfully melds style with substance, forming one pricey but alluring audio experience.
