Bookshelf Speakers — MAGNAT Monitor S10 D

The Monitor S10 D is a compact two-way dipole loudspeaker in the Monitor S Series from the German brand Magnat, part of the Premium Audio Company group. Magnat describes it as a bookshelf and on-wall design but lists it among its surround models, intended for rear or side positions in 5.1 or 7.1 home cinema systems. The price is 199 EUR per pair.

Key specs that matter

A single 11 cm woofer-midrange works with a dipole tweeter array of three 13 mm Mylar domes, one facing forward and two mounted on the sides. The crossover point is 3,400 Hz. Magnat quotes a frequency range of 42 Hz to 32,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 88 dB measured with 2.8 V at 1 m. Nominal impedance is 4 to 8 ohms. Power handling is listed as 20 W minimum and 120 W maximum. Each cabinet measures 14.9 x 25 x 13 cm and weighs 2.2 kg.

Engineering and use context

Because the side tweeters radiate toward the front and rear of the room as well as toward the listener, the S10 D spreads high frequencies over a wide area instead of aiming them at one seat, which is the usual goal for surround channels. The enclosure is sealed, without a reflex port, so its low-frequency behaviour changes little when it hangs on a wall or sits close to one. Magnat builds the box from MDF and fits coated metal driver baskets. The woofer-midrange uses Magnat's FE driver technology, which combines an optimised ferrite magnet system, non-magnetic ventilated baskets and voice coil cooling to limit losses and keep thermal behaviour stable. A pointed conical dome at the centre of the cone stiffens the diaphragm and reduces unwanted vibration. Each tweeter has its own ferrite magnet. Unlike most models in the range, the S10 D has a space-saving terminal with push connectors and an integrated wall bracket, and rubber spikes decouple the cabinet from the wall. An acoustic fabric grille covers the front.

Pairing

The S10 D is voiced to match the other Monitor S models, and Magnat names the Monitor S30, Monitor S10 B and Monitor S12 C centre channel as partners for a consistent set of channels. The moderate impedance and power handling suit ordinary AV receivers driving the surround channels, and a walnut finish is offered for owners matching wooden Monitor S cabinets.

Alternatives

The Magnat Monitor S10 B is the conventional bookshelf model of the same series, a two-way with a single forward-facing dome tweeter in a deeper cabinet.