News

3/10/2003

High end hi-fi hails new loudspeaker icon with the Ferguson Hill FH001

Ferguson Hill, a new breed of British hi-fi specialists, has set new standards in high end audio with the introduction of the world's first ever front horn loaded dipole loudspeaker, the FH001. Combining unique and brave design aesthetics with precision sonic engineering, the FH001 delivers a natural, expressive sound stage with an unparalleled high level of clarity, detail and dynamics.

The FH001's strength lies not only in its innovative and striking horn design but in its high efficiency and omission of crossover. Ideally suited to low powered valve amps, this elegant airshifter needs only five watts to reach a very high volume. Couple this with the absence of phase distortion and temporal incoherence associated with crossover circuitry and the FH001 serves up truly focused stereo imaging.

The brainchild of former aeronautical design engineer Tim Hill says "The FH001 was born out of my love for music and experience in engineering and design. The FH001 project has been on going for the last ten years, having gone through many stages of development, extensive real time analysis testing and refining the acoustic properties."

Loaded with a modified single Lowther DX3 full range driver (currently the best available of its type) and working off a frequency range of 150Hz - 20KHz, the FH001 requires a subwoofer with level control running from 150Hz and below to handle the low-end frequencies. Ideally the signal should be taken from the preamp stage. The driver support ring and phase plug are also precision machined from aluminium alloy, coated in a protective anodised finish.

Standing over 166cm tall, 90cm wide and 80cm deep, the FH001 cuts a majestic but stylish presence. The transparent horns are constructed from 8mm thick toughened precision moulded cast acrylic, a thermo plastic selected for its superior dampening properties to eradicate any unwanted vibration. Supporting the giant horns and aiding with dampening duties are welded stainless steel satin polished stands complete with internal dampening, perched on integral spikes and supplied with floor protector discs.

Each speaker is individually tailored and made to order. The FH001 retails for £6,950 per pair (including VAT).

Ferguson Hill is also evolving a hi-fi component range to compliment and power the FH001. An integrated amp, powered bass speakers, system isolation pod, turntable, tuner and CD player are currently under development.

www.fergusonhill.co.uk