The Hemispheres are unique, versatile loudspeakers that will change the way you think about amplified sound in live performances, sound installations, and non-traditional sonic/art scenarios.

Amplifed sound usually has a very different character from unamplified sound because of the way it interacts with its environment. Unamplified sound radiates out from its source in all directions, interacting with the walls, floor, ceiling, etc., while most loudspeakers project sound in one direction only. Typical “stereo” or “surround sound” systems have a “sweet spot” where they sound best, and the spatial illusion they create is destroyed if the listener is not properly positioned.

Hemispherical speakers are entirely different. They produce “localized” sound that emanates from the speaker’s position and interacts with a room’s natural acoustics. The speakers have no front or back, and no sweet spot for listening. This allows electronically-produced sound to take on the characteristic intimacy of unamplified sound, changing the experience of both performer and audience, and improving the quality of hybrid performances which mix acoustic and electronic instruments.

Multichannel Hemisphere

The standard Hemisphere is fed a monaural signal. A multichannel version of the Hemisphere is also available. The multichannel version is a modified version of the “original” Hemipshere, where each of the drivers can be given a separate signal to create a multi-directional effect in circumstances where that is desired.

The changes to the design included rewiring the internal electronics of the speaker, and re-thinking the way audio signals could be fed into the cabinet. Working with Dan Trueman and Scott Smallwood at Princeton University, and the amazing cable builders at HAVE Inc., we have developed a jack and breakout cable design that condenses all of the cable runs into a single cable and connector.

One durable 6-foot breakout cable is included with each 6-channel Hemisphere. It features six 1/4” TS plugs at one end, for easy connection to six channels of amplification, or easy adaptation to other standard plug types. The other end terminates in a single, locking 12-conductor plug, making a simple and secure connection to the speaker cabinet.

These 6-channel speakers are now being used by cutting edge musicians and sound installation artists. Maybe they are just the thing for you, too. We also offer a 6-channel-to-mono adapter cable, to allow your 6-channel Hemisphere to function like a monaural Hemisphere. Get the most flexibility out of your speaker by picking up one of these with your order.

Feature list and specifications

• Custom-built hemispherical MDF enclosure
• Finish: State-of-the-art black powder coating
• Handles, for easy rigging and portability
• Speaker elements: Six Polk Audio db521 fullrange drivers ( more info )
• Audio input:
  • Monaural version: Neutrik locking 1/4” jack
  • Multichannel version: 6 channels via included breakout cable – six 1/4” TS plugs.
• Frequency Response: 60-22,000 Hz
• Impedance:
  • Monaural version: 6 ohms
  • Multichannel version: 4 ohms per speaker
• Height at center: 8-1/4”
• Diameter of base: 21-1/4”
• Weight:
  • Monaural version: 17 lbs. (25 lbs. in shipping crate)
  • Multichannel version: 18 lbs. (26 lbs. in shipping crate)
• Dimensions of shipping crate: 24” x 24” x 10”

Additional Information

• Frequently Answered Questions
• History of the Hemisphere