Sestetto: A Symphony of Sound and Design

Stefano I. Scarascia and Shyam F. Zonca's Innovative Multi-Channel Audio System

The Sestetto, described by its creators as the "chamber orchestra of recorded music," is a multi-channel audio system that plays individual instrument tracks through separate loudspeakers. Each speaker is made from different materials and incorporates unique technologies, creating a symphony of sound that mimics a live concert experience.

The system's unique properties lie in its design and construction. The console case is handmade from fir, walnut, and mahogany, while the speaker cabinets are molded from reinforced concrete. The ceramic horns are hand-turned by a ceramic artisan, and the wooden soundboards are made from fir and birch. This blend of materials and craftsmanship results in a product that is as visually appealing as it is sonically impressive.

The Sestetto was born out of a deep self-production research at the Politecnico di Milano. The designers aimed to extend this approach to the self-production of the listening experience. After investigating alternative audio systems' technical possibilities, they developed the electronic multi-channel device. This device, coupled with the sound properties of different materials and technologies, allows for experimental sound combinations.

The project, which started in September 2012 in Milan, Italy, and finished in February 2013, has received recognition and accolades. It was exhibited at the Fuorisalone del Mobile in April 2009, the XXI Triennale from June to September 2016, and the Lambrate Fall Edition in October 2016. The Sestetto was awarded the Golden A' Digital and Electronic Device Design Award in 2017, a testament to its innovative design and exceptional quality.

Despite the challenges faced during the design process, including finding rapid solutions for self-development and self-production processes, the designers were able to maintain the design and aesthetic quality typical of Hi-Fi audio devices. The result is a product that is not only functional but also a work of art.

The Sestetto is a testament to the power of design and innovation. It is a product that not only enhances the listening experience but also serves as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the intersection of art, design, and technology.