The IOTA is an ultra compact two-way bass reflex-tuned design. The 2.6 litre cabinet is constructed from high grade MDF, which is internally damped.
The main drive unit is a 100mm Polypropylene cone with a powerful, low-distortion ferrite magnet system, coupled to a finite element analysis-designed suspension system. The tweeter is a 50mm vertical planar magnetic ‘ribbon’ device. The choice of tweeter is critical, because the tweeter lends the whole speaker its essential character and integrity. In this context, the tweeter’s strengths of superb dynamic contrast and accurate tonal colour are well matched to those of the main drive unit.
The Iota is unusual with the tweeter being mounted, vertically, to the side of the bass/midrange drive unit, allowing the cabinet to be as small as possible, whilst giving good lateral dispersion from the tweeter. This results in a wide and precise stereo soundstage.
The system is tuned with a 38mm port to deliver a full-bodied presentation, favouring bass harmonics which suggest that deep bass is present.
The Iota is of average sensitivity, but has a benign impedance making it very easy to drive, even with modest partnering equipment.