B & W Unveils Unique Addition To Nautilusô Family Of Loudspeakers

B&W Loudspeakers, the British manufacturer recognize internationally as the leader in loudspeaker technology for home audio and home theatre systems, has debuted the new Nautilusô SCM1 On-Wall Mounting Loudspeaker. Combining the same components as found in the award winning Nautilus 805 and a computer-engineered low profile vented enclosure, the Nautilus SCM1 addresses the needs of the most demanding music lovers and AV audiophiles in applications that require an on-wall, low profile speaker. ""The SCM1ís design is unique in its ability to reproduce-fully-the demanding dynamic range of the best modern recordings. And at only 4 1/2 inches deep, the possible uses for the SCM1 are numerous. Theyíre a natural for a complete 5.1 surround system (plus subwoofer) or just as rear-channel speakers."" Says Chris Browder, B&Wís Exec. Vice President. ""They would also be an ideal match with wall-mounted plasma screen and we even envision them being used in a simple two channel system. Wherever a shallow profile is preferred or space constraints require it, the SCM1 is a perfect fit for those that donít want a compromise in performance."" Fully understanding the Nautilus SCM1ís features and benefits requires familiarity with a few key B&W technologies, all derive from elements developed for the original, more radical Nautilus design. - The Nautilus 800 Series tweeter is employed in the SCM1. Its advanced new neodymium-iron-boron magnet system is open to the rear and directs rear wave energy through the Nautilus tapered tube. Its flat-edge surround smoothes the response at very high frequencies, while Ferrofluidô cooling and beryllium-copper lead-out ribbons increase power handling. The Nautilus tweeter enclosure of the SCM1 brings an enormous advantage in low-coloration ""boxless"" enclosure to more practicable dimensions.- The Bass/midrange driver in the two-way Nautilus SCM1, is an improved version of the original 6.5-inch B&W woven-KevlarÆ unit. An unusually large 31 mm (1.24-inch) voice-coil enhances power handling; a higher-stability spider more precisely maintains coil-gap geometry over long-term use. - Unique mid/bass enclosure: To maintain a significant degree of the Nautilus advantage in a more conventional design the Nautilus SCM1 bass/midrange enclosure employs a curved side/rear surface geometry forming a broad U-shape; formed with heat and high pressure, the thick laminated panel yield significant anti-vibration advantages. When combined with a sophisticated refinement of or the renowned B&W MatrixÆ internal bracing, the result is a cabinet of unprecedented strength, with virtual freedom internal resonance and coloration. Another important technical feature is B&Wís proprietary Flow Port concept, which combines computer-derived port length, diameter, and flare, with B&Wís unique ""dimpled"" vent surface. Just like a golf ball, the surface dimples serve to reduce turbulence. In subwoofers it eliminates the audible ""chuffing"" that otherwise can color high-velocity low-end transients. The Nautilus SCM1ís crossover is computer optimized and laid out with separate circuit boards for each individual filter section. This measure significant reduces interaction between inductors for audible improved definition and low-level accuracy. Inductors throughout include air-core components for all but the very highest values; polypropylene capacitors in all critical signal-path locations also maintain best-possible signal quality.A final key to the B&W SCM1ís low-profile appearance is its highly adaptable solid aluminum-mounting bracket. This smoothly contoured bracket swivels horizontally to 45 degrees (no vertical tilt) and extends the SCM1 into the room a mere 6.5 inches. Equally important, the carefully designed mounting system visually ""belongs"" to the B&W SCM1, maintaining an integrated look so central to its design. Cabinet Finishes In Real Wood Veneers: Black AshNatural CherrywoodRed CherrywoodMSRP: $1,100 eachAvailable: February 2000

For more information, contact B&W Loudspeakers of America at 978 664 2870/800 370 3740.