If you haven't already, make sure to check out the initial article about this project for some background and information on design goals.
It's time for another update on the development of the MANTA SENTINEL loudspeaker system. Since the Manta monitor is already in production, the focus is still on the Sentinel subwoofer.
There are many moving parts when developing a commercial product. We are sharing this developer diary series to give some insight into it all, and of course keep you up to date on the progress of our upcoming flagship system.
The 15" driver and preliminary test results
The design of the custom carbon fiber driver has now been finalized, including a purpose built painted aluminium trim ring to make it look the part. The first batch of actual production drivers has been ordered, and is expected to arrive before the end of the year.
The prototype drivers have been tortured over the summer, with some impressive results. The current prototype subwoofer extends into the single digits in our listening room.
And some unofficial SPL numbers outdoors from a single subwoofer without violating the distortion limits of the CEA2010 test protocol:
- 122db/40hz@1m
- 126dB/50hz@1m
- 129dB/60hz@1m
The cabinet
The Sentinel cabinet design has also been finalized (subject to adjustments due to production / assembly requirements).
The cabinet dimensions are as follows:
Height: 580mm (22.8 inches)
Depth: 580mm (22.8 inches)
Width: 490mm (19.3 inches)
Weight is TBD, but probably somewhere around 55-60kg (120-130lbs)
The process of creating two high quality pre-production units has started. This will take some time, as the cabinet manufacturer needs to analyze the 3D model and consider possible challenges from a production and assembly perspective before actually building the first units.
In parallel with the cabinet we need to develop the shipping boxes. The goal is to make two Sentinels fit perfectly on a 120x80cm euro pallet for safe and secure shipping.
The plan is also to make a special order of a pair of Manta speakers with black wood base to go with the pre-production Sentinels.
The Amplifier
The new amplifier is finally available, and samples are in transit to us as we speak. Then follows a long process of tuning both the frequency response and limiters to make the Sentinel as awesome as it can possibly be.
Availability and Pricing
I hope we can be able to do a pre-release world premiere here in Norway at Oslo Hifi show March 6-7th 2027. Pre-orders will hopefully open soon after that. Exact release date and price is still to be determined.
That's it for now. Stay tuned!
