Atlantic Technology Updates Reference 8600 Loudspeakers

The newest iteration of Atlantic Technology’s flagship 8600 Series loudspeakers includes a sleek new look and enhanced technology. The redesigned 8600i tower models expand Atlantic Technology’s range of speakers to the design-conscious and higher-end markets.

The internally braced, non-resonant MDF cabinet of the 8600i features rounded front and top edges, offering a contemporary look, while painted front and rear baffles replace the former vinyl covering, adding an elegant update and reducing unwanted resonances.

The bowed shape of the perforated metal grille on the 8600i eliminates diffraction issues, resulting in more precise sound, according to the company. For ease of removal and cleaning, the grille is magnetically attached to the cabinet; behind the grille is a scrim for a seamless appearance and protection of the drives, with a modest crossbar to ensure rigidity. The modernized plinth has both feet and spikes to accommodate various floor surfaces. To complete the look of the 8600iLR, a beveled top plate of smoked glass is included.

Inside, Atlantic Technology has improved the motor designs of the two active 8-inch woofers, which now in combination with the two passive woofers, deliver deeper bass, increased output, and improved linearity. Compared to its predecessor, the 8600iLR’s wider frequency response descends to 30Hz, ±3dB.

The crossover design is vastly improved, with new, upgraded components with greater tolerances. Based on findings from advanced computer analysis and modeling, the 8600iLR’s tweeter and midrange drivers are positioned higher than before, to better align with the ear height of a seated listener.

The two midrange drivers and the tweeter are mounted on a brushed aluminum plate baffle, available in aluminum (white cabinet) or anthracite (black cabinet).

The revamped and reshaped center-channel speaker, 8600iC shares most of the design elements of the 8600iLR (aside from the glass top), as well as the same midrange, tweeter, and baffle design. Thanks to the improved woofer-design, the 8600iC now uses dual 8-inch woofers rather than four as in the previous version. By using the same speaker driver array and baffle plate on the 8600iLR and 8600iC, Atlantic can ensure seamless transitions and strong acoustical matching across all speakers.

To further customize and enhance performance, the 8600i models retain key features from the prior models, including the proprietary Low-Resonance Tweeter (LRT), for a much smoother blend of radiation coverage angles as the signal transitions from woofer to tweeter.

The three-position High-Frequency Energy switch is used to adjust the tweeter’s output to better match the speaker’s response in rooms of different sizes, shapes, and acoustics, from highly reflective to highly absorptive. The Location Selector switch increases the speaker’s upper-midrange and high-frequency outputs to compensate for placement behind perforated screens, to ensure better detail at the listening position. Last, the Boundary Compensation control adjusts the lower midrange, minimizing sound colorations when speakers are placed near rear of side walls.

The 8600iLR and 8600iC is available in two fine-furniture finishes of high-gloss lacquer: gloss white or black. 

The suggested retail prices remain unchanged: 8600iLR, $6,000/pair; and 8600i center speaker, $2,000/each. All models are available now.