Sonus Faber Omnia Speaker: A Symphony of Art and Audio
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my latest musical obsession – the Sonus Faber Omnia all-in-one speaker. Crafted by the illustrious Italian HiFi maestro, Sonus Faber, this all-in-one connected speaker is a masterpiece that seamlessly melds artistic elegance with unparalleled audio prowess. It’s not just a speaker; it’s a symphony of art and audio, a harmonious blend of Italian craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.
Technical characteristics
- Very high-performance “all-in-one” stereo wireless audio system.
- 4-way/7-speaker electro-acoustic configuration in an airtight enclosure.
- DSP-based system management.
- Front system format for 2 tweeters and 2 midrange speakers.
- All full-range side speakers for sound projection.
- Bottom emission woofer with 165mm aluminum cone.
- Total amplification power of 490 watts.
- Sonus Faber exclusive SENSO touch user interface,
- Sonus Faber exclusive CRESCENDO sound projection system.
- Network-based configuration to optimize integration in any room.
- Compatible with Bluetooth (aptX HD included), Apple AirPlay 2, and Chromecast.
- Roon Ready approved.
- High-quality natural finish with two possible options.
- Frequency response of 30-25,000 Hz (cutoff points at -6 dB).
- Maximum sound pressure level of 108 dB.
- Handmade in Italy.
- Dimensions: 650x130x280 mm (WxHxD).
- Weight: 7.6 kg.
Aesthetic Brilliance:
The first glance at the Omnia is nothing short of mesmerizing. It stands as a testament to Italian design excellence and craftsmanship. Its unconventional, avant-garde design immediately captivates the eye. It defies conventional speaker aesthetics with its sleek, modern silhouette, and it’s not just about sound – it’s a visual statement.
However, what truly sets the Omnia apart is its striking walnut wood panel, lovingly named “Senso.” This panel is more than just an aesthetic flourish; it’s a functional work of art. It incorporates large light strips and touch-sensitive controls, elevating the Omnia’s beauty and usability. These illuminated strips feature a captivating color code that indicates the active audio source. It’s a delightful visual cue that adds warmth and sophistication to any room.
A color code has been created to indicate the source currently playing:
- White for AirPlay 2 playback,
- Yellow for using the built-in Chromecast,
- Blue for a Bluetooth connection,
- Purple for Roon’s use,
- Light blue for Tidal Connect use,
- Green for using Spotify Connect,
- Orange for HDMI connection to television,
- Pink for playing analog sources.
The responsiveness of this walnut panel is a testament to Sonus Faber’s dedication to user experience. A gentle touch on your smartphone’s “play” button, and the music begins to fill the room. Moreover, the backlit strips can be adjusted in intensity or turned off, ensuring a distraction-free listening experience during movie nights.
The convenience of managing these features lies in the palm of your hand, courtesy of the included remote control. Notably, Sonus Faber chose not to develop a dedicated smartphone app, making the remote control a seamless and tactile means of controlling this elegant speaker.
With dimensions of 65 cm in length, 13 cm in height, and 28 cm in depth, the Omnia boasts a compact footprint that effortlessly adapts to any living space. It effortlessly graces your furniture or complements a wall-mounted TV, making it as versatile as it is beautiful.
A Symphony of Sound:
Beneath its captivating exterior, the Sonus Faber Omnia conceals a formidable audio powerhouse. Boasting a total power output of 490 Watts, it achieves this sonic excellence through a carefully arranged ensemble of seven speakers. Its front showcases two tweeters and two midrange speakers, while its sides feature two broadband speakers. All of these speakers combine seamlessly with a substantial downward-firing woofer, creating an immersive sound bubble that engulfs you in a world of music.
However, what truly sets the Omnia apart is its Crescendo technology. This innovation harnesses the power of wall reflections to reproduce the spatiality and immersion of a live performance. Instruments and vocals are placed with impeccable precision within the soundstage, delivering an auditory experience that transcends conventional speaker technology.
The Sonus Faber Omnia connected speaker is not just an audio device; it’s a portal to a world of musical brilliance. It exhibits clarity, precision, and a mesmerizing soundstage that transports you to the heart of your favorite music. Here, we delve deeper into the various aspects of its musical mastery:
Precise Instrument Separation:
Listening to orchestral compositions with the Omnia is akin to sitting in the conductor’s chair. It excels in precisely separating individual instruments within the orchestra. Whether it’s the delicate strings, resounding brass, or the subtleties of woodwinds, each section is discernible, allowing you to appreciate the complexity of symphonic arrangements fully.
Vocal Intimacy:
The Omnia has an uncanny ability to convey vocal intimacy. When you listen to a live recording or an acoustic performance, you’ll feel as though the singer is in the room with you. Every vocal inflection, breath, and nuance is conveyed with remarkable authenticity. It’s an emotional connection that adds depth to your listening experience.
Live Concert Realism:
For those who crave the live concert experience, the Omnia does an exceptional job of replicating that feeling. When you close your eyes, you can almost visualize the stage, the performers, and the audience’s energy. It captures the ambiance and acoustic nuances of live recordings, making you feel like you’re in the front row of a concert hall.
Intricate Sound Effects:
Whether you’re watching an action-packed movie or playing a video game, the Omnia’s prowess extends to intricate sound effects. Footsteps, explosions, and subtle environmental sounds are reproduced with clarity and spatial accuracy. It enhances your immersion in multimedia content, turning ordinary viewing into a cinematic adventure.
High-Resolution Audio Delight:
For audiophiles who cherish high-resolution audio, the Omnia is a delight. It faithfully reproduces Hi-Res files with pristine detail and fidelity. Every note, every instrument, and every texture are presented in their purest form. It’s a sonic canvas where you can explore the nuances of music as the artist intended.
Seamless Multiroom Integration:
With AirPlay 2 compatibility, the Omnia seamlessly integrates into a multiroom audio system. You can synchronize music playback across multiple AirPlay 2-compatible devices, creating a harmonious listening experience throughout your home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or moving from room to room, the music follows you, creating an immersive atmosphere.
Streaming Without Boundaries:
The Omnia’s versatile streaming capabilities, including Chromecast, Bluetooth aptX HD, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect, ensure that you can access your music effortlessly. Whether you prefer streaming from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, the Omnia facilitates uninterrupted playback. The wireless connections are robust, offering convenience without compromising on audio quality.
Ergonomic Control:
While some may miss a dedicated app for control, the Omnia’s ergonomic remote control is a joy to use. It provides intuitive control over volume, playback, and source selection. The inclusion of touch-sensitive keys on the Senso walnut wood panel is a thoughtful touch, adding convenience and elegance to the user experience.
Versatile Placement:
The Omnia’s compact footprint makes it versatile in terms of placement. Whether you choose to position it on a piece of furniture, a bookshelf, or mount it under a wall-mounted TV, it effortlessly adapts to any space. Its elegant design enhances the aesthetics of your living room, creating a focal point that marries form and function.
The Omnia Experience:
In conclusion, the Sonus Faber Omnia connected speaker is more than just an audio device; it’s a symphony of sound that immerses you in the world of music, movies, and multimedia content. Its ability to convey instrument separation, vocal intimacy, and the realism of live concerts elevates your listening experience to new heights. Whether you’re indulging in Hi-Res audio, enjoying vinyl records, or enhancing your TV audio, the Omnia delivers sound in its purest and most captivating form. It’s a testament to the harmonious blend of art and audio, redefining what a speaker can be. Embrace the Omnia experience and let music be the soundtrack to your life.
A Gateway to Digital Music:
The Sonus Faber Omnia leaves no stone unturned when it comes to accessing your digital music. It offers a comprehensive array of audio protocols, ensuring that you can seamlessly connect to the music sources of your choice. With support for AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth aptX HD, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Roon Ready compatibility, the Omnia caters to all major streaming services and devices.
Your preferred method of music playback is entirely at your discretion. Whether it’s Bluetooth, AirPlay, or Chromecast, you have the freedom to choose how you enjoy your music. This versatility ensures that all your music sources, be it YouTube, Apple Music, Deezer, Qobuz, or any other service, are at your beck and call.
For aficionados of Hi-Res audio, the Omnia seamlessly integrates with Roon, InnuOS, or Auralic servers. This grants you access to your HD music files and high-quality streaming from Qobuz and Tidal. The Omnia’s dedication to exceptional audio quality is evident, ensuring that your Hi-Res music shines in all its glory, with support for files up to 24-bit / 192 kHz quality.
The Perfect Blend of Music and TV:
The Omnia transcends the confines of traditional speakers. It offers an HDMI ARC input, making it a compelling alternative to soundbars. Its remarkable audio capabilities enhance your television’s sound quality significantly. Dialogue becomes crystal clear, and the immersive soundstage ensures that every movie or TV show is an auditory delight.
Moreover, the Omnia’s dual role as a music and TV speaker makes it an aesthetic and design alternative to conventional soundbars in the market. It’s a visually appealing complement to your home entertainment setup.
Vinyl enthusiasts will delight in the Omnia’s integrated phono stage, which allows seamless connections to turntables. This feature transforms the Omnia into an elegant pedestal for your cherished vinyl collection, creating a sophisticated listening setup that’s as stylish as it is functional.
Sound Test: Experiencing Musical Brilliance with the Sonus Faber Omnia
The Sonus Faber Omnia connected speaker is a visual masterpiece, but its true essence is revealed when you press play and let the music flow. It’s time to embark on a sonic journey and explore the nuances of its sound performance.
Clarity and Precision:
From the very first notes that emanate from the Omnia, it’s evident that this speaker is a paragon of clarity and precision. The sound is pristine, with every instrument and vocal rendered in exquisite detail. Whether you’re listening to a classical symphony, a jazz ensemble, or a rock concert, the Omnia’s ability to articulate each note with precision is striking.
Immersive Soundstage:
One of the Omnia’s standout features is its ability to create an immersive soundstage. As you close your eyes and listen, you’ll feel as if you’re transported to the heart of a live performance. The spatiality and depth of the soundstage are remarkable. Instruments and vocals are placed with pinpoint accuracy, allowing you to visualize the musicians in front of you. It’s a captivating and immersive experience that elevates your connection to the music.
Dynamic Range:
The Omnia boasts an impressive dynamic range that spans from the softest whispers to thunderous crescendos. It handles transitions between quiet and loud passages with finesse, ensuring that no detail is lost in the process. Whether it’s the delicate plucking of guitar strings or the explosive impact of a drum solo, the Omnia captures the full spectrum of musical dynamics.
Bass Response:
For a speaker of its size, the Omnia delivers a surprisingly robust and controlled bass response. The downward-firing woofer, in collaboration with the other speakers, creates a deep and impactful bass that underpins the entire musical experience. When you listen to bass-heavy genres like electronic or hip-hop, you’ll feel the vibrations and thump in your chest. Yet, it never overwhelms; the bass remains tight and articulate.
Midrange Magic:
The midrange frequencies, where many vocals and instruments reside, are rendered with warmth and authenticity. Vocals, in particular, are a standout feature of the Omnia’s midrange performance. Whether it’s the raw emotion of a blues singer or the soaring vocals of a soprano, the Omnia captures the subtleties and nuances, making you feel the singer’s every breath and emotion.
Treble Brilliance:
The treble frequencies are handled with finesse, offering a shimmering and airy quality to cymbals, strings, and other high-frequency elements. It strikes a harmonious balance between clarity and smoothness. There’s a sense of sparkle in the treble that adds a touch of magic to acoustic instruments and vocals.
Versatility Across Genres:
The beauty of the Omnia lies in its ability to excel across genres. Whether you’re listening to classical compositions that demand intricate detail, rock anthems that require power and energy, or jazz pieces that rely on subtlety and improvisation, the Omnia adapts effortlessly. It’s a testament to its versatility and ability to cater to the diverse musical tastes of its listeners.
Uninterrupted Streaming:
Thanks to its robust connectivity options, such as AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Bluetooth aptX HD, the Omnia ensures a seamless streaming experience. The wireless connections are stable, and there’s no discernible loss in audio quality. Whether you’re streaming from your favorite music service or playing Hi-Res files, the Omnia faithfully reproduces the intended sound.
The Vinyl Experience:
For vinyl enthusiasts, the Omnia’s integrated phono stage is a delightful addition. It allows for a direct connection to your turntable, ensuring that the analog warmth and character of vinyl records are faithfully preserved. The result is a rich and textured vinyl experience that pays homage to the medium’s timeless allure.
TV Audio Enhancement:
In its role as a TV speaker, the Omnia elevates your television-watching experience. Dialogue becomes crystal clear, and sound effects come to life with depth and presence. It eliminates the need for a separate soundbar, making it a stylish and functional addition to your home entertainment setup.
In Conclusion:
The Sonus Faber Omnia connected speaker is a symphony of art and audio, a culmination of Italian craftsmanship and technological excellence. Its unconventional design, versatile connectivity options, and immersive soundstage make it a standout addition to any music lover’s home. Whether you’re streaming your favorite music, indulging in Hi-Res audio, or enhancing your TV’s audio, the Omnia redefines the capabilities of an all-in-one speaker. It’s not merely a speaker; it’s a work of art that beckons you to immerse yourself in the symphony of sound.
Positives:
- Its modern and elegant Italian design,
- Its very spatialized sound reproduction for a compact loudspeaker,
- Its countless suggestions for listening to my digital music ( AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, etc.),
- AirPlay 2 for multi-brand multi-room streaming.
Negatives:
- A direct RCA input without having to go through the MiniDin adapter.
