Evolution of the Capella System
It has been only two years since the debut of the original Triangle Capella, but the manufacturer has already identified potential for both aesthetic and technical refinements. The result is the newly launched Capella 2. While fresh finishes are a welcome addition, the system must prove its worth in a competitive market by demonstrating significant performance gains over its predecessor.
Pricing for the active wireless system is set at £2299 in the UK, $2899 in the US, and AU$6000 in Australia. It is important to note that the dedicated S05 stands are sold separately, ranging from £279 to AU$325 depending on the region.
Technical Specifications and Design
Triangle has opted to retain the proven driver architecture from the first generation. This includes a 25mm horn-loaded magnesium-aluminium alloy dome tweeter, featuring a phasing piece for enhanced off-axis performance, paired with a 165mm natural cellulose pulp mid/bass driver. The design remains consistent, with a vented aluminium chassis and a specialized rubber surround meant to optimize soundwave dispersion. The system delivers a frequency response of 42Hz – 22kHz, supported by a downward-firing bass reflex port.
The system retains 100 watts of Class D amplification per speaker. The most significant changes lie within the streaming hub, now dubbed the 'Stereo Hub 2'. Utilizing WiSA technology, it maintains a low-latency connection (less than 2.6ms) with 24bit/192kHz resolution.
Key Connectivity Upgrades:
- Processing: A new Cortex A53 processor.
- Streaming: Support for Spotify Lossless, Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect, UPnP, and Roon Ready, along with AirPlay and Chromecast.
- Physical Inputs: Now includes an Ethernet port, subwoofer pre-out, HDMI eARC, multiple digital inputs (optical, coaxial), and USB-A/B.
- Bluetooth: Updated to version 5.2 with aptX HD support.
Sonic Performance
The Capella 2 stands out for its balanced approach. It is an "unjudgemental" system that delivers a polished performance regardless of the source quality. While high-resolution files via Tidal Connect offer more detail, the system performs admirably even with compressed Spotify streams, avoiding the harshness found in some competitor products.
The soundstage is spacious, organized, and open. Although it may lack the massive scale of certain rivals, it successfully projects sound beyond the physical boundaries of the cabinets. The tonality is neutral, allowing the recording to speak for itself. Bass is punchy and rhythmically confident, while the midrange offers excellent articulation. Dynamic headroom is impressive, maintaining composure even at higher volume levels.
Design and Usability
The cabinets feature a refined curved vertical edge, measuring 38 x 20 x 32cm. Triangle has expanded its color palette beyond the original 'Space' white and 'Astral' blue to include 'Space' black, oak, and an 'English' green. These finishes are mirrored on the Stereo Hub 2 and the magnetically attached grilles.
The system includes a premium, rechargeable aluminium remote control that operates via RF rather than IR. For deeper customization, users can utilize the Capella control app. While the app interface could be more intuitive, it provides vital tools for room calibration and fine-tuning speaker placement.
Final Thoughts
The Triangle Capella 2 is a compelling, stylish, and sonically capable update. While competition from established models like the KEF LS50 Wireless II remains fierce, the Capella 2 offers a distinctive, neutral, and refined listening experience that makes it a strong contender for those looking for a premium wireless audio solution.
