Dynaudio's Confidence 20A Speakers: Elevating Active Audio Performance

Experience the future of sound with Dynaudio's Confidence 20A, where cutting-edge technology meets exquisite design.

Introduction to Confidence 20A

February 2025 marked a significant milestone in audio technology as Dynaudio took a bold step forward. With the goal of enhancing their active legacy—including XEO, Focus XD, and Pro—Dynaudio introduced the Confidence 20A. This remarkable speaker symbolizes a blend of innovation and craftsmanship, designed for those seeking an ultimate audio experience.

Concept and Vision

The Confidence 20A was crafted with two main objectives in mind:

• A Technology and Branding Statement: To assert Dynaudio’s position in the premium speaker market.
• Simplification of High-End Audio: To create a high-quality audio system that requires nothing more than a source (digital or analog) that offers volume control, appealing to audiophiles looking for an "end-game" solution to their audio adventures.

While the exterior displays subtle changes—primarily untouched tweeters and sturdy feet—the interior has been entirely re-engineered, showcasing Dynaudio’s commitment to excellence.

Design Features

Dynaudio has meticulously crafted the Confidence 20A, emphasizing subtle yet impactful design elements. Here are some key design features that distinguish it as the active version:

• A black front baffle that complements the driver cover rings.
• A unique ‘Y’ indicator positioned on the front of the stand.
• A thoughtfully designed ventilation pattern on the stand’s sides.
• All essential controls and connections located on the back of the stand.

Amplifier Insights

The Confidence 20A integrates a powerful amplifier, inspired by Dynaudio’s professional studio products:

• Pascal Amplifier: Offers a staggering 400W for the woofer and 150W for the tweeter, ensuring optimal performance for the renowned Confidence drivers. It’s important to note that the system is designed with a 500W amplifier for the mid/woofer, with signal input limited to maintain driver safety.

Performance Results

This powerful amplifier provides ample headroom, allowing for effortless sound reproduction—even at high sound pressure levels (SPL).

Integrated Amplifier Design

Dynaudio's innovative design incorporates the amplifier, controls, and connections directly into the stand, providing several benefits:

• Aluminum Construction: This material not only serves as housing and heatsink but also enhances stability without compromising cabinet space.

Performance Enhancement

This smart integration of the amplifier contributes additional weight and stability to the speaker, directly impacting overall audio performance.

Tweeter Technology

As a flagship model, the Confidence 20A is outfitted with the advanced Esotar 3 tweeter—a premium 28mm coated soft dome with Hexis technology.

Treble Performance

The result? Exceptional airiness and clarity, allowing for remarkable resolution of treble details and authentic transient response.

Dual-Flared Port System

A new feature is the ESDF port, which has undergone significant re-engineering to optimize performance:

• Geometry and Tuning: Each small change was subjected to rigorous listening tests.
• End-to-End Exponential Shape: This design minimizes port noise while slightly lowering output, allowing for an improved system resonance frequency.

Outcome

The result is a remarkable optimization of airflow, enhanced precision, and virtually eliminated artefacts, leading to a significant improvement in low bass performance.

If you think a bass port only influences bass performance…wait till you hear the calmness and clarity it brings to the reproduction of e.g. a female voice.

Filter Tuning Approach

Overall Philosophy

Dynaudio emphasizes simplicity in their filter tuning:

• Keep It Simple: Only as complex as necessary for a balanced sound experience.
• Directivity and Listening Fatigue: Aiming for optimal sound delivery while minimizing listener fatigue.

Digital Filter Advantages

The digital filters bring various advantages:

• Infinite Toolbox: Offering flexibility beyond fixed values of analog components.
• Seamless Time Alignment: Ensuring all elements of sound are in sync.
• Low Q Filters: Emulating the natural impulse response of passive filters.

Audio Performance

The result of this meticulous tuning is a vast sound stage with great clarity and impulse response.

Connection Options

The Confidence 20A offers various connection types, ensuring compatibility with numerous audio sources:

• Service Port (for dealer/Dynaudio use only)
• AES3 digital output (XLR)
• AES3 digital input (XLR)
• XLR analogue input (balanced)

Versatile System Capabilities

This versatility makes it easy to connect with any source type that includes volume control.

Control Features

Digital Channels

For users with AES3 digital inputs, the system allows for channel selection via a simple switch.

Sample-Rate Conversion Options

You can choose between two settings:

• Off: Preserves the source's sample-rate for the utmost sound quality.
• On: Converts to the Confidence 20A's sample rate (24/192), facilitating gapless playback.

Adjustable Sensitivity

Start with the analogue sensitivity set to 'Low' and adjust as necessary to optimize sound levels.

Sound Balance Settings

Adjustments can be made to achieve your desired sound profile—options include 'Dark,' 'Neutral,' and 'Bright.'

Position Settings

Proper placement enhances audio performance:

• 'Free': More than 50cm from walls.
• 'Wall': Closer than 50cm to one wall.
• 'Corner': Closer than 50cm to two walls.

Lighting Options

The front ‘Y’ LED indicator can indicate power status and provide alerts for clipping or thermal protection.

Source Compatibility

Dynaudio has tested various sources to ensure exceptional compatibility and performance. Some of these include:

• Recommended Digital Outputs: Wiim Pro Plus, Lyngdorf TDAI 3400, Lumin T3, and more.
• Analogue Outputs: Moon 791 and Auralic Altair 1.
• Other – For a system integrator, a Dante adapter (e.g. Audinate Dante AVIO 2ch AES3 I/O Adapter) will allow connection to a control system (with Dante) and send signals from all sources in the system to Confidence 20A.

Confidence 20A: $24,000/pr (USD)

Conclusion

The Dynaudio Confidence 20A represents a significant advancement in the world of active speakers. With its thoughtful design, powerful amplification, and superior acoustic performance, it's crafted for those who seek the pinnacle of audio excellence. Are you ready to transform your listening experience?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes the Confidence 20A unique compared to other speakers? The Confidence 20A combines advanced active technology with elegant design, providing superior sound quality and a simplified setup.
• Can I use different audio sources with the Confidence 20A? Yes, the Confidence 20A works with various digital and analogue sources, ensuring versatile connectivity.
• How does the amplifier contribute to sound quality? The amplifier provides significant power and headroom, enabling effortless sound reproduction even at high volumes.
• What are the benefits of the new ESDF port design? The ESDF port optimizes airflow and minimizes noise, vastly improving low bass performance and overall sound clarity.
• Is the Confidence 20A suitable for small spaces? While it performs well in various environments, proper setup and positioning are crucial to maximize its capabilities.

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