Floorstanding loudspeakers — Wolf von Langa SON WVL 11334 SERENDIPITY+

The WVL 11334 SERENDIPITY+ is a compact passive loudspeaker designed by Wolf von Langa in Bavaria, Germany. The maker describes it as a two-way system with vibration-inhibiting passive cones, and it is built for smaller rooms as a stand-mounted monitor rather than a tower. Unlike several other Wolf von Langa designs, it does not use field coil drivers. The US price is USD 9,995 per pair.

Key specs that matter

For bass and midrange, the SERENDIPITY+ relies on a PURIFI woofer based on the Ushindi ultra low distortion transducer technology, with extended stroke. The treble is handled by a Mundorf Air Motion Transformer, and Wolf von Langa selected 100 pairs of these AMT units for the model on the basis of the closest tolerances and best measured results. Two opposing passive radiators fire from the sides of the enclosure instead of a port. The frequency response is 48 Hz to 22,150 Hz within plus or minus 2.5 dB, and 35 Hz to 33,000 Hz at the minus 10 dB points. Characteristic sound pressure is 88 dB at 2.83 V and 1 m, maximum power handling is 150 W, and the rated nominal impedance is 4 ohm. Each speaker measures 352 mm high, 242 mm wide and 295 mm deep and weighs 11.1 kg.

Engineering and use context

Each enclosure wall is a sandwich of a fibre material and stone, developed by Wolf von Langa to block the transmission of vibration through the enclosure. Inside, a flame retardant foam with a porous structure absorbs selected frequency ranges. The crossover is a series network, a topology chosen because it keeps the response flat even when the characteristics of the drivers change. An external crossover is offered as an option. Matching stands are available at 638 mm high, 241 mm wide and 299 mm deep with a weight of 7.5 kg each. Three finishes are listed - Black with Davos White, Black with Avana Gray, and Black with Star Black. Wolf von Langa gives 5 years of warranty after the owner registers the product with the manufacturer.

Pairing

Given the low nominal impedance, the SERENDIPITY+ calls for an amplifier that its maker rates for loads of that impedance, with output kept within the power handling stated above. The optional stands and external crossover are Wolf von Langa accessories, so the maker's own parts complete the system without third-party additions.

Alternatives

For a floor-standing design from the same maker, Wolf von Langa lists the WVL SON in its loudspeaker range.