Technology

Precious elements: Stratton Acoustics launches uncompromising Element 12 Hi-Fi speakers

Stratton Acoustics Element 12 loudspeakers

Stratton Acoustics, renowned for its opulent Elypsis 1512 loudspeaker, has once again struck an esoteric chord in the world of high-end audio with the launch of its latest creation, the Element 12. 

Conceived by David Fowler, the brand’s visionary founder and designer, and Phil Ward, resident electro-acoustic engineering wizard, the Element 12 is a 2-way, reflex-loaded design with an ornate integral stand.

Designed with the same fervour as its larger sibling, the Element 12 promises an exceptional focus on dynamics, rhythm, and engagement, all contained within a more compact (but admittedly, still rather large – they tip the scales at 47.6kg) enclosure.

With a wink and a nod to its artisanal heritage, every facet of the Element 12 is meticulously crafted and hand-made in the UK.

With a wink and a nod to its artisanal heritage, every facet of the Element 12 is meticulously crafted…

Featuring 26mm/46mm bamboo ply panels and internally braced cabinets, the Element 12 boasts a custom-made 12-inch paper bass/mid driver with dual voice-coils and a NeFeB magnet motor system, ensuring robust and articulate bass reproduction. Complementing this powerhouse is a 29mm soft dome tweeter nestled within Stratton’s patented Mechanically Isolated Tweeter Assembly, delivering crystalline high frequencies with precision and clarity.

But what immediately sets the Element 12 apart is its integral stand, a structural showstopper crafted from 3mm thick, powder-coated steel panels inspired by Voronoi geometry, all anchored by a high-gloss bamboo ply and natural cork base. 

Available in four distinct high-gloss mirror finishes, including Piano white with silver, Piano black with Black and Gold, Maple with Silver, and Ziricote with Black and Gold, the Element 12 is as much a visual experience as it is an auditory one.

“When it comes to addiction, ours is quite simple,” quips David Fowler. “We’re addicted to crafting exquisitely engineered loudspeakers that have you glued to your seat from the first note. In essence, we get our fix by supplying our customers with theirs.”

The Element 12 made its UK debut at the prestigious AudioShow Deluxe, hosted at Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire. The speakers were partnered with a Vertere Acoustics MG-1 MKII Magic Groove turntable and FM Acoustics amplification.

With a price tag of £32,000 per pair, the Element 12 may not be for the faint of heart, but for those with a passion for music and an appreciation for exquisite craftsmanship, these speakers represent a tempting sonic indulgence. 

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About Steve May

Creator of Home Cinema Choice magazine, and Editor of The Luxe Review, Steve muses and reviews for Trusted Reviews, T3, Home Cinema Choice, Games Radar, Good Housekeeping, Louder Sounds, StereoNet and Boat International. He’s also the editor of professional home cinema website Inside CI. He's on Twitter/X, Tiktok and Instagram as @SteveMay_UK