Sonus Faber Lumina III tower speakers

Since 1983, Sonus Faber offers effective high-end speakers which charmed a large number of music lovers and attracted a lot the specialised press. The brand is renowned notably for its “Homage”, Olympica and most recent Sonetto series.

Nowadays, the Italian manufacturer offers a new affordable range, while still meeting the requirements and needs of music lovers with modest means. As of now, the Lumina range consists of 4 Hi-Fi products: two tower speakers and two bookshelf speakers. This Lumina III is the “little” tower of the range. Like usual on the manufacturer’s superior ranges, this is a 3-way/4 driver speaker.

SONUS FABER LUMINA III: MANUFACTURE AND DESIGN

Right out of the box, the Lumina III shows a production from refined and handmade materials, in the true sense of the word. The design is minimalist on purpose and highlights the quality of the materials used.

The front is made of true multi-layered wood, with 3 available finish for the plated surface: lacquered black, wenge or walnut. The drivers can be hidden behind a rigid black Jersey cover attached with magnetic fixings.

The cabinet is very rigid and its weight (16 kg) makes it a proof of quality.

Of course, these tower speakers are handmade in the Sonus Faber factory in Arcugnano, Italy.

SONUS FABER LUMINA III: DRIVERS

The excellent 29 mm DKM fabric dome tweeter is in charge of the high frequencies. In order to limit distortions and perturbations in high frequencies, this tweeter is insulated from the speaker cabinet by a viscoelastic joint. In mid-range, it is associated with a 150 mm cellulose fibre driver. It is identical to the model used on the Sonetto range.

Both 15 mm bass drivers are specific to the Lumina range and were especially designed for this Hi-Fi speaker. It comes with a big and powerful engine allowing the drivers to go down in really low frequencies, without experiencing any trailing.

The vent of the Bass/Reflex load exits below the tower speaker. This is an advantage as the placement of the speaker becomes less problematic with back and side walls. It is however less of an advantage with the ground, but it seems less problematic.

SONUS FABER LUMINA III: SETUP

The Lumina III is already a rather large speaker but it is still relatively easy to place. It will need a listening room larger than 20 m².

The connection is done on a good quality terminal block which allows bananas, fork connectors and of course bare wires.

SONUS FABER LUMINA III: TESTING AND LISTENING

We associated these Sonus Faber Lumina III speakers with a good amplifier of around 60 watts (ex: Musical Fidelity M2 Si).

The restitution is very large and open. The Lumina III easily fill the room without the need to raise the volume a lot. It is able to deliver a powerful and controlled restitution with the forte. The Sonus Faber Lumina III offer an excellent sense of rhythm associated with a great enthusiasm.

Like always with Sonus Faber, the main asset is the texture quality and a successful balance which continues to improve the musicality. I can assure you, this Hi-Fi speaker does not waste the decibels!

However, the transparency is excellent but that doesn’t mean it hides the details.

The Sonus Faber Lumina III tower speakers are fantastic and effective. It’s a true success, both aesthetically and musically. They make the high-end acoustic proud, while still staying at a really competitive price.

Recommended +++