Audio Video News

Harman Introduces New Infinity Reference Series Speakers

SV Staff  |  Jul 30, 2014

Harman International has introduced a new generation of Infinity’s 45-year-old Reference Series speakers. From the compact R152 bookshelf model to the top-of-the-line R263 tower speaker, the revamped line comprises nine mix-and-match models, featuring proprietary Ceramic Metal Matrix Diaphragm (CMMD) drivers, computer-optimized driver positioning and crossover network integration, tuned ports and internal cabinet bracing for “extended deep bass,” and a black woodgrain finish. A 1-inch CMMD tweeter mated with Harman’s “most advanced waveguide to date” is also standard across the line.

The series includes:

  • R152 two-way bookshelf with a 5.25-inch woofer ($400/pr)
  • R162 two-way bookshelf with a 6.25-inch woofer ($500/pr)
  • R253 three-way tower with two 5.25-inch drivers ($900/pr)
  • R263 three-way tower with two 6.5" drivers ($1,100/pr)
  • RC252 two-and-a-half-way center-channel with dual 5.25-inch drivers ($350)
  • RC263 three-way center-channel with dual 6.5-inch drivers ($500)
  • RS152 two-way on-wall surround speaker with a 5.25-inch woofer ($500/pr)
  • SUB R10 powered subwoofer with a 200-watt amplifier and 10-inch driver ($500)
  • SUB R12 powered subwoofer with a 300-watt amplifier and 12-inch driver ($600)
Unique to the R263, R253, and RC263 three-way models is a flat-piston CMMD midrange driver said to reduce diffraction in the high and mid-frequency bands.

The wall-mountable RS152 surround-channel speaker is described as ideally suited for multichannel music or movie soundtracks due to its patented Hemispherical Soundfield Technology (HST), which uses a combination of driver positioning and waveguide pattern control to deliver “balanced coverage across a 180-degree hemispherical listening area.”

Both subwoofers mate a fiber-composite driver to a high-power digital amplifier in a heavily braced 0.75-inch-thick cabinet. Other highlights include a variable crossover plus phase and LF trim controls for fine-tuning bass performance.

All models are designed and engineered in Harman’s world-class speaker testing facility in Northridge, CA.

COMMENTS
kevon27's picture
Submitted by kevon27 on July 31, 2014 - 5:04am

These speakers LOOK SO CHEAP.. I really hope they sound will blow us away that the cheap look will no longer matter.

jalan's picture
Submitted by jalan on July 31, 2014 - 7:35am

I agree with kevon27. They look really cheap with the sharp edges and the faux wood grain laminate. At this price range I would expect speaker grills with magnet attachments, not the old press in plastic tabs these have.
Why do mass market audio manufacturers(Harman/Polk/Paradigm -etc.) still make speakers with tacky wood grain finish? its so outdated looking

utopianemo's picture
Submitted by utopianemo on July 31, 2014 - 9:02am

They look to be a very good value. The flat driver looks much like the ones used in Cambridge Audio's Aero and Minx series. I wonder if they perform a similar function. I'd definitely forgo aesthetics for performance in this case.

PollyChan's picture
Submitted by PollyChan on July 31, 2014 - 11:44am

The lack of bass is a deal-breaker.

HMB's picture
Submitted by HMB on July 31, 2014 - 12:55pm

For $1100 a pair you are not going to get the best components- like the latest folded diaphram tweeter being used in all of the better speakers.
Not sure why they are calling them "Reference Series".

trynberg's picture
Submitted by trynberg on July 31, 2014 - 1:23pm

I don't think they look cheap, given their price points. These aren't internet direct sales.

I'm sure better aesthetics will be left to the entry level Revel speakers that will be based off these.

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