Etude Tri-Linear Array ETLA Loudspeaker
ETUDE TRI-LINEAR ARRAY ETLA LOUDSPEAKER INTRODUCES HIGH-SENSITIVITY FLOORSTANDING DESIGN
The latest loudspeaker from British HiFi brand CML Music is the Etude Tri-Linear Array (ETLA), a compact floorstanding design created by Dr Christopher Mark Liauw. The Etude Tri-Linear Array ETLA Loudspeaker is due to have its world premiere at NWAS 2026 at Cranage Hall.
Developed as a high-sensitivity loudspeaker intended for use with low-powered amplification, the ETLA combines multiple balanced mode radiator (BMR) drive units with user-adjustable voicing options in a cabinet designed to work close to a rear wall.
ETUDE TRI-LINEAR ARRAY ETLA DESIGN AND DRIVER CONFIGURATION
The ETLA stands 760mm high, measures 400mm wide and features an angled front baffle intended to align the listening axis for seated users. The loudspeaker employs three vertical linear arrays, each consisting of four 85mm BMR drive units. The central array is partnered with a compression tweeter derived from the company’s Etude High Sensitivity Bipole (EHSB) loudspeaker design.
CML Music says the design targets listeners seeking high sensitivity, broad dynamic capability and tonal consistency, while maintaining a relatively compact footprint suitable for domestic environments. The loudspeaker is intended to be positioned close to the rear wall, using boundary reinforcement to maximise bass extension and preserve living space. According to the release, amplifiers delivering only a few watts of power, including single-ended valve designs, should be capable of driving the ETLA to satisfying listening levels in an average UK-sized room.
ETUDE TRI-LINEAR ARRAY USER ADJUSTMENTS
The ETLA incorporates several user-adjustable features. The two outer driver arrays can be configured to alter the depth of a presence-region dip through selectable roll-off settings, enabling listeners to tailor the speaker’s horizontal dispersion characteristics and tonal balance.
In addition, the output level of the compression tweeter can be adjusted using solderless resistor changes accessible from the rear of the cabinet. The release notes that the ETLA can also be voiced to complement the EHSB, allowing the two models to be used together within multi-channel systems.
CABINET AND COMPONENTS
The enclosure is manufactured from 18mm CNC-machined, higher-density exterior-grade MDF and incorporates extensive internal bracing designed to reduce cabinet resonances. Unlike many loudspeaker designs, the cabinet contains no fibre or foam absorbent materials.
Standard finish is a satin crackle paint treatment, while piano lacquer and veneer finishes are offered as optional upgrades. Internal crossover components are sourced from Jantzen, Clarity Cap, Bourns, Customcoilsnstuff and Vishay.
ETUDE TRI-LINEAR ARRAY SPECIFICATIONS
According to the published specifications, the ETLA offers an in-room frequency response of 32Hz to 20kHz within ±6dB limits and a quoted sensitivity of approximately 99dB/W measured at 600Hz and 1 metre. Nominal impedance is specified at 8 ohms, with a minimum impedance of 5 ohms, while programme power handling is rated at 240W.
Each loudspeaker weighs approximately 25kg, with overall cabinet dimensions of 760 x 400 x 386mm. The release also highlights an average impedance of 8.9 ohms and a minimum equivalent peak dissipation resistance (EPDR) of 3.5 ohms at 54Hz, describing the ETLA as an amplifier-friendly load, including for valve amplifiers.
ETUDE ETLA PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
The Etude Tri-Linear Array (ETLA) loudspeaker is scheduled to be sold directly by CML Music. Pricing for the standard satin crackle finish with M8 polypropylene-tipped furniture gliders is set at £3,000 per pair. An optional grille has also been developed and is expected to cost an additional £200 per pair, although this has not yet been finalised. Alternative finishes, including piano lacquer and veneer options, are available at extra cost.
HiFi PiG says: A very interesting new loudspeaker, we can’t wait to hear it at NWAS 2026
