Volt Powers Lockwood Loudspeakers

Dorset, UK-based Volt supplies drivers for many loudspeaker brands, such as PMC in its BB5s and Kerr Acoustic in its K200, for instance. Its latest challenge, however, was to recreate and refine the dual-concentric point-source unit for Lockwood Loudspeakers.

Few loudspeaker designs hold as much reverence among audiophiles as the classic dual concentric driver, originally developed some fifty years ago and famously used in Lockwood cabinets throughout the 'golden age' of British studio monitoring. Known for its unique point-source coherence and natural imaging, the Dual Concentric has become a benchmark for critical listening – a reference standard in broadcasting, mastering, and high-end hi-fi.

Volt Loudspeakers has worked closely with Lockwood to develop a new range of Dual Concentric drivers that honour the sonic heritage of the original whilst incorporating decades of Volt's engineering expertise and innovation.

We are told that the cast-aluminium chassis has been completely re-engineered to deliver both improved aesthetics and functionality. This involved removing the outer raised lip, which allowed the newly designed surround to sit flush within the recess, thereby eliminating the need for a gasket. Where Tannoy originally used mechanical fixings to bolt down the suspension and gasket, Volt says it transitioned to "advanced aerospace-grade" adhesives, making bolt holes obsolete while improving rigidity. Each chassis is lightly hand-sanded to remove micro-imperfections as part of our rigorous quality control process.

The 'Pepper Pot' waveguide is not only an iconic feature but plays a critical role in the high-frequency performance of the driver. In this updated version, the perforations are precision-machined for consistency, ensuring optimal wave propagation from the waveguide into the horn throat, which is said to "preserve the smooth and coherent response the originals were known for."

Lockwood Loudspeakers continue to use alnico magnets. Alnico is key to delivering the musicality and tonal character for which these drivers are celebrated, and its use remains non-negotiable. The LF section retains its aluminium shorting ring, while Volt has added a new one to the HF motor to reduce harmonic distortion further and improve overall performance.

The chassis is also treated to a two-part, matte black paint finish. The resulting finish is described as having a "soft, suede-like texture" that complements the rubber surround and contributes to the speaker's understated, high-end aesthetic.

The geometry of the paper pulp cone remains faithful to the original specification, preserving its sonic signature. On the subject of preservation, the cone benefits from a modern formulation that's resistant to discolouration over time. Additionally, the rear surface and outer edge of each cone are specially treated—this, we're told, not only enhances high-frequency response but also prevents edge delamination, ensuring long-term durability.

Finally, while the original units used foam surrounds, Volt developed custom tooling to produce a new rubber surround with a half-roll profile. The manufacturer states this modern material offers superior longevity and stability, especially at low frequencies. It also visually complements the rest of the driver, bringing together form and function in a way that suits the updated Lockwood aesthetic.

We are certainly looking forward to experiencing the next-gen Lockwood Loudspeakers fitted with these Volt drivers.

For more information visit Lockwood Loudspeakers