Wilson Benesch A.C.T. 3Zero

The Wilson Benesch A.C.T. 3Zero stands as a culmination of over three decades of iterative innovation. More than just a speaker, it is a direct lineage to the company’s founding vision: Advanced Composite Technology. With roots tracing back to the world’s first carbon fiber composite loudspeaker, the original A.C.T. One from 1991, this sixth-generation model retains its iconic proportions while transforming entirely in performance and materials. The A.C.T. 3Zero introduces a next-generation biocomposite monocoque enclosure that is not only more acoustically silent than its predecessor but also consciously sustainable, engineered from natural, renewable resources without compromising structural or sonic integrity.

Fitted with Wilson Benesch’s most advanced technologies, including the Tactic 3.0 drive unit, the groundbreaking Fibonacci tweeter, and a newly integrated Isobaric Drive System housed in its precision-machined foot, the A.C.T. 3Zero sets a new benchmark in high-performance floorstanding loudspeakers. This is a loudspeaker that bridges heritage and modernity, channeling the unmistakable aesthetic and engineering DNA of its predecessors while defining new standards in accuracy, soundstage coherence, and dynamic expression.

Key Features

• Biocomposite Monocoque Enclosure: Built from renewable, sustainable natural materials, offering superior damping and resonance control.
• Fibonacci Silk-Carbon Hybrid Tweeter: Wide dispersion, flat frequency response, and decoupled architecture for ultra-low distortion.
• Tactic 3.0 Drive Units: Proprietary carbon fiber/nylon diaphragms with 3D-printed Fibonacci element for unmatched phase coherence.
• Isobaric Drive System: Twin Tactic 3.0 woofers in clamshell configuration housed in the speaker foot for deep, controlled bass.
• Direct Midrange Coupling: Amplifier-direct midrange drive unit without crossover, maintaining absolute phase integrity.
• Carbon Fibre Composite Stealth Top: Non-reflective, sculpted form diffuses standing waves and colorations.
• Precision CNC Machined Foot: Multi-part aluminum and steel structure adds mass, stability, and houses the bass system.
• Laminar Flow Guide: Additive-printed port system reduces air turbulence and boundary interactions.
• White-Glove Delivery and Setup: Every pair is personally delivered and installed by Michael Hoatson anywhere in the U.S., ensuring perfect placement and full system integration.

Tactic 3.0 Drive Unit

The Tactic 3.0 drive unit is a core innovation in the A.C.T. 3Zero, representing a new generation of transducer design based on the science of geometry, materials, and acoustics. At the heart of the diaphragm lies a structural element that has traditionally been overlooked: the dust cap. In typical drivers, this component exists simply to cover the voice coil. In the Tactic 3.0, Wilson Benesch transforms this into a crucial acoustic and mechanical element through the introduction of the Fibonacci Element.

Manufactured entirely in-house using additive 3D printing, the Fibonacci Element is composed of a carbon fiber and nylon matrix. It is engineered using advanced design software that allows the team to construct the part in cross-section, layer by layer, optimizing the density, stiffness, and geometry in ways that would be impossible with traditional molding techniques. The final form is a double-curved lattice structure with both open and closed aspects, drawing directly from naturally occurring geometries to achieve a balance of rigidity and controlled flexibility.

This structure directly influences the energy distribution across the diaphragm. By precisely tuning the mass and stiffness properties, Wilson Benesch is able to drastically reduce distortion and extend the frequency range in which the driver operates linearly. This is especially critical when considering the integration with the Fibonacci tweeter and the bass drivers. Historically, designers have relied on passive crossover networks to reconcile the different characteristics of each driver. But with the Tactic 3.0 and Fibonacci system working in tandem, Wilson Benesch achieves a level of mechanical and acoustical integration that reduces the reliance on complex filters. The net result is improved transient response, enhanced coherence, and greater tonal accuracy.

Additive manufacturing not only improves performance but also opens an entirely new design frontier. For the first time, the internal topology of the drive element can be tuned in real time. Every contour, every join, every interstitial segment of the Fibonacci lattice can be calculated and controlled, bringing a new level of precision to loudspeaker engineering. In this way, the Tactic 3.0 isn’t just a driver upgrade, it is a platform for a new class of loudspeaker design.

Fibonacci Tweeter

The Fibonacci tweeter is the result of years of iterative development, evolving from the successful Semisphere design and redefining treble performance for the modern era. Its hybrid silk-carbon dome delivers a natural, detailed presentation, but what truly sets it apart is the structure that surrounds it. Crafted from a nylon-carbon composite and shaped using advanced geometry inspired by Fibonacci’s mathematical patterns, the faceplate is both mechanically rigid and acoustically transparent.

This Fibonacci Element optimizes airflow and minimizes diffraction while maintaining uniform behavior across the tweeter’s wide dispersion field. It is fully decoupled from the motor structure and tweeter chassis, which means it introduces virtually no structural resonance, allowing the dome to operate with incredible precision and control. The result is extended high-frequency performance that is both ruler-flat and spatially immersive, delivering a soundstage that feels limitless in width and height, yet intimate in vocal clarity.

A.C.T. 3Zero Biocomposite Monocoque

As part of the Fibonacci Series, the A.C.T. 3Zero features a newly developed biocomposite monocoque chassis, a bold departure from the carbon fiber composite designs of earlier generations. This enclosure is not only more environmentally conscious, using naturally sourced and renewable materials, but also superior in performance. The new composite formulation increases internal damping and structural stability, which helps reduce cabinet-born coloration and enhances clarity across the frequency spectrum. This design move places Wilson Benesch at the forefront of sustainable high-end audio engineering while offering improved acoustic behavior over traditional synthetic composites.

Isobaric Drive System

The A.C.T. 3Zero is the first speaker in the A.C.T. lineage to incorporate an Isobaric Drive System, a major advancement for low-frequency performance. Using two Tactic 3.0 drivers mounted in a clamshell formation, the system delivers bass that is tightly controlled, richly extended, and seamlessly integrated with the speaker’s midrange. Located within the substantial machined base, this system adds physical mass to the structure, reinforcing its stability while anchoring low-frequency energy directly to the floor. This architectural integration ensures that the bass remains coherent and balanced, even at dynamic peaks, offering a powerful yet articulate foundation to the musical experience.

Carbon Fibre Composite Stealth Top

Capping each A.C.T. 3Zero is an architectural carbon fiber composite top, sculpted through a combination of hand-formed clay modeling and high-precision digital design. The flowing, asymmetrical geometry isn’t just visually elegant, it’s a critical performance element. Flat surfaces can reflect sound waves directly, reinforcing standing waves that distort the soundstage. In contrast, the stealth top’s curved, irregular contours disperse these reflections and reduce energy buildup, preserving the purity of musical information. This meticulous design eliminates a major source of coloration and ensures that sound remains uncolored, neutral, and true to the source.

Direct Midrange Drive Unit Coupling

Wilson Benesch’s commitment to signal purity is exemplified in its midrange system, which forgoes crossover components entirely. Instead, the midrange Tactic 3.0 driver is coupled directly to the amplifier, avoiding the phase shift and timing disruption introduced by passive filter networks. The diaphragm is formed from isotactic polypropylene, chosen after extensive testing for its ability to absorb unwanted resonances without complex breakup behavior. This material choice, along with the direct signal path, allows for exceptional phase coherence and tonal transparency. The result is a midrange that captures the human voice and acoustic instruments with lifelike realism and emotional nuance.

Precision CNC-Machined Foot

The foundation of the A.C.T. 3Zero is a three-part, CNC-machined aluminum foot structure that serves multiple critical roles. Beyond supporting the speaker physically, it acts as a resonance control platform and houses the Isobaric Drive System. The foot’s mass and density lower the speaker’s center of gravity, improving stability and anchoring bass energy. Internal steel tension rods span the height of the cabinet, securing the structure under compression and maximizing its rigidity. This approach, borrowed from structural engineering, enhances transient control and reduces energy loss throughout the entire chassis.

Laminar Flow Guide

At the rear of the A.C.T. 3Zero is an intricately printed Laminar Flow Guide, engineered to manage airflow from the midrange port. Developed using additive manufacturing, this internal structure slows and smooths the exit of air from the enclosure, reducing port turbulence and boundary effects. This innovation proves particularly valuable in compact or reflective environments where rear-wall interactions can compromise clarity. By shaping and controlling the flow of air, the Laminar Flow Guide helps maintain balance and focus in the lower midrange, supporting more flexible speaker placement without sacrificing performance.

Bespoke Finishes

Every Wilson Benesch A.C.T. 3Zero loudspeaker is hand-built to order and available in a wide range of finish options:

Standard Finish:

• Textured Black: A classic and timeless finish that exudes understated elegance.

Premium Real Wood Veneers: (Upcharge Applies)

• Burr Walnut Gloss: A luxurious wood veneer with a rich, warm hue and intricate grain patterns.
• Ebonised Walnut Gloss: A dark, sophisticated veneer offering a modern aesthetic.
• Walnut Gloss: A traditional wood finish showcasing natural beauty and warmth.

Premium Paint Finishes: (Upcharge Applies)

• Belladonna Phantom: Exquisite and head-turning violet hue.
• Senna Volcanic Orange: A vibrant, eye-catching hue inspired by high-performance sports cars.
• Senna Volcanic Red: A deep, passionate red finish that commands attention.
• Aventador Blu Aegir: A striking blue tone reminiscent of luxury automotive finishes.
• Huracan Verde: A bold green shade that adds a unique flair to any setting.
• Mugello Grigio: A sleek and modern grey finish offering subtle sophistication.

Premium P1 Coloured Carbon Finishes: (Upcharge Applies)

• P1 Enzo Red: A dynamic red carbon fiber finish combining technological prowess with aesthetic appeal.
• P1 Ettore Blue: A refined blue carbon fiber finish exuding exclusivity and style.
• P1 Silverstone Silver: A sleek silver carbon fiber finish reflecting modern elegance.

Isobaric Drive System Finishes:

• Standard: Textured Black
• Premium: Rhodium Silver, Gold (Upcharge Applies)

If you’d like to create something truly unique, The Listening Room will help you explore custom paint or veneer options to match your space and system.

The Listening Room Difference

At The Listening Room, we don’t just sell high-end audio, we provide a level of service that’s as refined as the products we offer. When you invest in a speaker like the Wilson Benesch A.C.T. 3Zero, you’re not just making a purchase, you’re making a commitment to world-class sound, and we match that commitment with world-class service.

Owner Michael Hoatson will personally deliver the A.C.T. 3Zero to your home, anywhere in the country. This isn’t a curbside drop-off. Mike will painstakingly ensure that every detail of your setup is dialed in perfectly. From room placement and fine adjustments to full system integration, he’ll work to optimize the A.C.T. 3Zero’s performance within your space. When you buy from The Listening Room, you’re getting the expertise and dedication of someone who truly understands what it takes to bring a system to life.

Specifications

Drive Technology

• Midrange: 170mm (7") Wilson Benesch Tactic 3.0

• Tweeter: 25mm (1") Wilson Benesch Fibonacci Hybrid Silk-Carbon Tweeter

• Low Bass: 170mm (7") Wilson Benesch Tactic 3.0

• Isobaric Drive System: 2x 170mm (7") Wilson Benesch Tactic in Clamshell Formation

Crossover Technology

• Midrange: Directly Amplifier Coupled

• Tweeter: Second-Order, 5kHz High Pass Filter

• Low Bass: First-Order

• Isobaric Drive System: First-Order 500Hz Low Pass Filter

Enclosure Technology

• Materials: A.C.T. 3Zero - Advanced Biocomposite Monocoque Technology, Poly-Alloy, Hybridised Construction

• Midrange: Reflex Port Tuned with Laminar Flow Guide

• Tweeter: Labyrinth Sealed Tweeter Backplate

• Low Bass: Infinite Baffle Sealed Enclosure

• Isobaric Enclosure: Infinite Baffle Sealed Enclosure

Measurements

• Type: 2.5-way

• Impedance: 6 Ohms Nominal / 4 Ohms Minimal

• Sensitivity: 89 dB @ 1-Meter on axis, 2.83V Input

• Frequency Response: 34Hz – 30kHz

Dimensions & Terminations

• Height: 1132mm (44.5")

• Width: 194mm (7.6") Baffle // 276mm (10.8") Widest Point of Foot

• Depth: 376mm (14.8")

• Weight: 48kg (106lbs)

• Termination: Bi-wirable terminal located on the loudspeaker foot at ground level

• Spike Threads: 4x M14 // 1.5 pitch (per channel)