Design
Our philosophy is that good audio technology should be like good food, using the only finest quality ingredients in simple recipes with no artificial additives. Also, hi-fi should complement a stylish interior rather than invade it. The elegant industrial design of FrontRo by Josh Ford echoes the curved form of the Mart Stam cantilever chair.
FrontRo is a passive loudspeaker, which means that you can choose whatever amplifier and partnering equipment, such as a turntable or streaming device, that you wish to use. It has a 12” electrostatic unit that handles the mid-range and treble frequencies (500 Hz to 20 kHz), while the conventional 6.5” dynamic woofer handles the lower midrange and bass down to the lowest note on a double bass or bass guitar (40 Hz).
The standard wood finish is light oak, but for a small premium you may order a pair in a veneer of your own choice such as American walnut. Grille cloths are available in gunmetal, navy or burgundy. Underneath the cloth of the electrostatic unit is a special screen that excludes dust and moisture to ensure long term reliability.
Amplifier suggestion for FrontRo
We are often asked to recommend a partnering amplifier for the FrontRo. Our favourite amplifier currently on the market is the English Acoustics Stereo 41c which is based on the classic Leak Stereo 20, the first stereo amplifier to be introduced to Britain right at the birth of stereo LPs in 1958. Although the circuit topology remains completely true to the original, this new version has improved modern components, including the output transformers, modern safety features and better visual build quality, with a variety of colours available. The latter is not surprising considering that in 1958 amplifiers were generally hidden in bespoke cabinets along with the turntable, tuner and often the loudspeakers, whereas nowadays proud owners like to have their tubes out on show. As a result of the improvements, the English Acoustics version retains the sweetness and ambience of the original while packing more punch in the bass. For more information, please visit their website.
