Полочная акустика — MAGNAT Signature 503

The Signature 503 is the most compact shelf-mounted model in the Signature 500 series from MAGNAT, the German loudspeaker brand. This three-way bass reflex model joins a high-resolution dual tweeter module with a 17 cm woofer-midrange driver. MAGNAT points out that its footprint is smaller than an A4 sheet of paper. The same components are used in the front models of the series, which lets the 503 serve as a stand-alone compact stereo pair, or for rear effects next to other Signature 500 models in a surround layout.

Key specs that matter

MAGNAT quotes a range of 32 Hz to 53,000 Hz, and sensitivity is 91 dB at 2.8 V and 1 m. Nominal impedance is 4 to 8 ohm. Power handling is 100 W RMS and 170 W maximum, and the recommended amplifier output is above 20 W. The crossover works at two points, 2,800 Hz and 17,500 Hz. Cabinet dimensions are 205 mm wide, 365 mm high and 282 mm deep. Two finishes are offered, black ash and mocca.

Engineering and use context

The tweeter module is newly developed for the series and carries two fmax dome tweeters. The main tweeter uses a 30 mm dome with a coupling volume and a long-throw drive, meant to reach deep enough to join cleanly with the woofer-midrange driver. Above the upper crossover point, an additional 20 mm super tweeter takes over, intended to spread the highest frequencies evenly and to extend output beyond 50 kHz. Both tweeters are driven by neodymium magnet systems. The woofer-midrange unit covers the band beneath the tweeter module, and the bass reflex port supports its low-frequency output. Solid MDF forms the cabinet walls. The design was developed and engineered in Germany.

Pairing

The high sensitivity combined with a modest minimum amplifier recommendation allows a small stereo amplifier or home cinema receiver to power the pair, while its power handling leaves room for more powerful electronics. The chosen amplifier needs to be rated for the lower end of the impedance range. In a home cinema the 503 fits as the rear pair with Signature 500 floorstanding models at the front, since the drivers match across the series.

Alternatives

MAGNAT also makes the Signature 603, a three-way bookshelf speaker in the later Signature series that uses the same dual tweeter layout.