Полочная акустика — ELAC Vela 2.0 BS403.2

The ELAC Vela 2.0 BS403.2 is the lighter of the pair of bookshelf speakers in the second-generation Vela series from ELAC of Kiel, Germany. The range also covers the larger VBS404.2 bookshelf, the VFS407.2, VFS408.2 and VFS409.2 floorstanders and the VCC401.2 centre channel. This passive vented two-way model pairs a JET 6 tweeter with a single bass and midrange driver, offered in black, white and walnut high gloss.

Key specs that matter

ELAC lists a frequency range of 41 Hz to 50,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 86 dB at 2.83 V and 1 m. Nominal impedance is 4 ohm, dipping to a minimum of 3.2 ohm at 260 Hz. The handover from the 150 mm cone to the JET 6 happens at 2,400 Hz. Power handling is given as 70 W nominal and 100 W peak, while the maker recommends amplifiers delivering 40 to 200 W per channel. The cabinet measures 362 mm high, 191 mm wide and 240 mm deep, and each speaker weighs 7.1 kg. The design carries no magnetic shielding.

Engineering and use context

The JET 6 is ELAC's own tweeter working as an Air Motion Transformer, and it is handcrafted in Kiel. ELAC rates it with linear response beyond 50 kHz and an efficiency of 92 dB. The bass unit uses the AS-XR Crystal Membrane, a faceted aluminium sandwich cone with the brand's crystal pattern pressed into its surface, which the maker describes as structurally stronger. ELAC credits this cone with extended frequency performance, a smooth roll-off and the ability to handle large dynamic signals, with deep bass from compact cabinets. The enclosure follows the signature Vela trapezoidal form with softly curved sides, a shape chosen to reduce internal resonance and diffraction. An integrated bass reflex port vents downward through the base of the enclosure. The crossover network was reworked for this second generation and feeds twin sets of binding posts, so bi-wiring and bi-amping are both possible.

Pairing

Because its impedance dips just above 3 ohm in the lower midrange, the BS403.2 wants a partner built to handle demanding loads. Owners of a second stereo amplifier can take advantage of the split terminals to drive the woofer and the tweeter sections from separate channels. The matching Vela floorstanders and centre channel allow the pair to grow into a multichannel system with voicing drawn from the same drivers.

Alternatives

The ELAC Vela 2.0 VBS404.2 is the larger bookshelf in the same series, with a 180 mm AS-XR woofer, a 38 Hz lower limit and a 9.7 kg cabinet.