A point of Reference

Extending its flagship Reference Series of point source loudspeakers, EM Acoustics’ R6 sits between the ultra-compact R5 and the versatile R8, which the British manufacturer says is a logical next step in the expansion of the loudspeaker family. The two-way passive speaker has been developed to give integrators the ability to create complete Reference ecosystems. Characterised by its low-profile design, the Reference Series is a family of full-range loudspeakers that boast flat frequency and phase responses, and what EM Acoustics describes as “unparalleled headroom and exquisite musicality”.

The R6 retains the same DNA as its siblings and has been developed for use as a front fill or delay in theatres or as speech reinforcement in a corporate or AV setting, and is equally suited for deployment in houses of worship. The speaker is also capable of discreet front-of-house reinforcement in smaller live music settings.

The slim enclosure houses a pair of bespoke 2-inch voice coil 6.5-inch neodymium LF/MF drive units and a 2.5-inch voice coil annular HF compression drive unit. The use of an annular diaphragm retains the ultra-low harmonic distortion levels for which the Reference Series is known. These drive units are fed via a two-way crossover topology, minimising off-axis parallax and lobing effects while retaining consistency of sonic character right across the operating range.

In keeping with the other Reference Series models, the R6 is supplied with two bespoke waveguide options – 80° x 50° and 110° x 50° – to provide flexibility and return on investment for rental users and installation applications alike. In common with the rest of the series, the installed waveguide type and orientation are visible without removing the front grille. The use of bracing means the R6 retains the longevity and sonic advantages of a genuine plywood enclosure, whilst keeping weight remarkably low. The Birch plywood enclosure is coated in an impact and weather-resistant polyurethane finish which enables the R6 to stand up to harsh conditions and tough touring regimes.