Celestion unveils patented Lensguide technology & CNX0820 Coaxial Driver at ISE 2026

Celestion used ISE 2026 to unveil its Lensguide technology, illustrated in the manufacturer’s new line array waveshaper and horn designs, as well as the CNX0820, a new 8-inch neodymium magnet coaxial driver designed to deliver high-output, high-fidelity sound from a lightweight, compact footprint.

Lensguide technology addresses the flaws inherent in conventional waveguide and horn design that forces a trade-off between achieving either controlled directivity with poor frequency response, or smooth frequency response with poor directivity control.

Celestion’s Lensguide technology provides the best of both worlds: controlled directivity plus smooth and consistent frequency response simultaneously.

The technology is highly versatile and scalable. It can be adapted for use with a single compression driver or several arrayed together, and it can be adapted to suit different applications and drivers.

“The application of sculpted corrugations and the methods used to calculate them are the clever part that sets Lensguide technology apart from traditional solutions,” said Paul Cork, Celestion's head of engineering. 

“By accurately controlling the acoustic path length, we have achieved a level of wavefront coherence that standard waveguides simply cannot match. This results in an audio output that is smooth and consistent across the entire frequency band”.

Also new is the CNX0820 8-inch neodymium magnet coaxial driver, which has been meticulously engineered for professional applications where space is at a premium but audio quality cannot be compromised.

The driver features a highly robust cast aluminium chassis and a single neodymium magnet assembly that acts as a common motor for both the low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) elements. 

This design enables the acoustic centres of the two transducers to be brought closer together, delivering improved signal coherence and time alignment for natural audio reproduction, while maintaining a lower profile than conventional dual-motor designs.

The CNX0820 represents the next generation of Celestion’s coaxial design, evolving from the FTX range. However, it is also a showcase of Celestion’s broader engineering versatility. The CNX0820 is just one of 50 distinct coaxial platforms that Celestion has built for OEMs and sound reinforcement manufacturers. 

These platforms feature a massive range of options, including chassis sizes from 4-inch to 15-inch, neodymium or ferrite magnets, steel or aluminium frames, and various diaphragm materials.

A key differentiator for the CNX0820 is its integrated constant directivity horn, which provides a defined 50° dispersion pattern. This feature allows for precise coverage control directly from the driver, simplifying cabinet design for system integrators and manufacturers.

The CNX0820 delivers impressive power handling and sensitivity relative to its compact size. The LF element features a 2-inch (50mm) edgewound copper-clad aluminium voice coil, offering a continuous power rating of 500W and 95dB sensitivity. The HF element utilises a 1.75-inch (44mm) edgewound copper-clad aluminium voice coil, providing 100W continuous power handling with a sensitivity of 107dB.

To ensure pristine audio quality, the magnet assembly incorporates twin demodulation rings, which significantly reduce harmonic and intermodulation distortion. The HF diaphragm is constructed from polyimide for durability and clear transient response, and is field repairable, ensuring longevity and ease of service.

With its lightweight form factor (2.5kg/5.5lb) and high output, the CNX0820 is the ideal solution for floor monitor cabinets, compact two-way designs, and high-ceiling loudspeaker installations.

“The CNX0820 is a powerful demonstration of Celestion’s coaxial design capability,” said Ken Weller, Celestion's head of marketing. 

“As one of more than 50 distinct platforms available to our OEM partners, it highlights how we can tailor our common motor technology and integrated horns to deliver exceptional coherence and control for specific professional applications.”

Visit Celestion at ISE 2026 on Level 0, booth 7D860, Audio.