Lightweight Rigid Cellular Aramid Fiber Matrix Diaphragm

The diaphragms for the woofer and midrange driver are crafted from Sony's unique Lightweight Rigid Cellular material, formerly known as MRC. The latest generation compound has been further optimised alongside mechanical driver improvements, to deliver an even wider frequency response and smoother, more natural sound characteristics.

Optimal formulation

Embedding in a unique matrix with aramid fibers suppresses diaphragm resonance and minimises distortion, not only in the lows, but also in the mid and higher frequencies. The result is sound that is powerful at all frequencies and uncommonly clean, even at high volumes.

Separated Notch Edge Surround

The woofer surround features another proprietary technology, with distinctive curved notches improving the vertical amplitude symmetry, for dramatically reduced distortion and enhanced clarity.

Five-beam Frame Structure and Dynamic Air Diffuser

The Five-beam Frame design disperses resonance while the integrated Dynamic Air Diffuser ensures efficient air circulation for smooth cone travel and cooling of the voice coil.

Progressive Height Rate Spider

The acoustically-optimised spider allows for higher power handling and airflow, with a profile designed for more rapid and precise cushioning of the speaker cone.

Phase plugs 

The resonance damping phase plugs on the XS-163ES woofer and mid-range driver help realise the ideal frequency response, right up to the crossover points. A rigid aluminum bobbin in the woofer and Dynamic Air Diffuser further support the speaker's wide frequency response, for controlled and dynamic sound delivery.

Tweeters to hit the high notes

Compatible with High-Resolution Audio, a soft dome tweeter diaphragm is directly attached on the voice coil, designed to cover your music's ultra-high ends, with a frequency range extending up to 40kHz.

Bi-amp capable crossover with gain selector

The audiophile-grade crossover features optimised, low-resistance film capacitors for clear high-frequency reproduction. Plus inductive winding and air cores coils deliver crisp mid and powerful sound on demand. You will enjoy astonishingly low distortion across all frequencies, and the precision of crossover gain control, even when driving the components with a single amplifier.

Shallow mid-range driver

The newly-developed mid-range driver is driven via a compact but incredibly powerful neodymium magnet. The result is a shallower basket, designed to perform even in confined spaces and challenging installations.