Most Coveted Vintage Speaker Models for Audiophiles

Audiophiles often consider vintage speakers superior to newer models due to their build quality and attention to detail. Many vintage speakers were hand-crafted and built with higher-quality materials than many modern speakers, which can result in a more robust and refined sound.

In addition to their superior sound quality, vintage speakers can also be attractive to audiophiles due to their unique and often timeless design. Many vintage speakers were made with aesthetic considerations in mind and can be seen as works of art in their own right.

Vintage Speaker Models for Audiophiles

Speakers are an essential part of any sound system, and selecting the right speaker models can significantly impact the quality of sound. There are numerous speaker models available in the market, each with its unique features, making it challenging to decide which one to choose. In this article, we’ll provide you with a guide on how to pick the right coveted speaker models and also list the best 15 models currently available on Amazon.

Pick the Right “Coveted Speaker Models”

When selecting a speaker model, it’s essential to consider various factors such as sound quality, durability, size, and design. The following are some of the things to keep in mind while selecting a speaker model:

Sound Quality: The most crucial factor to consider when selecting a speaker model is its sound quality. Look for models that provide clear and crisp audio.

Durability: Speakers need to be durable enough to withstand wear and tear. Look for models that are built to last and come with a warranty.

Size and Design: Speaker models come in different sizes and designs. Consider the size of the room where you’ll be using the speaker and select a model that fits the space.

In this article, we will be reviewing 15 different audio products across a wide range of categories, including bookshelf speakers, wireless speakers, and soundbars. For each product, we will provide a list of specifications, as well as an overview of the pros and cons.

Sonos One (Gen 2)

The Sonos One (Gen 2) is a premium smart speaker that offers high-quality audio performance and voice-controlled convenience. With its sleek and compact design, it can blend seamlessly into any room, making it a popular choice for music lovers and tech enthusiasts alike.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 4.69 x 4.69 x 6.34 inches
• Weight: 4.08 pounds
• Two Class-D digital amplifiers
• One tweeter and one mid-woofer
• Built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
• Apple AirPlay 2 compatible
• Trueplay tuning technology

Pros

• High-quality sound performance
• Easy-to-use voice controls with Alexa and Google Assistant built-in
• Sleek and compact design that can blend into any room
• Compatible with a variety of music streaming services
• Trueplay tuning technology ensures optimal sound quality in any environment

Cons

• Limited functionality without a Wi-Fi connection

KEF LS50 Wireless

The KEF LS50 Wireless speakers are an excellent choice for those looking for a premium wireless speaker system. The sound quality is exceptional, with clear and detailed highs, deep and punchy bass, and a wide soundstage. The design is sleek and modern, with a variety of color options to fit any decor. The speakers are also incredibly easy to set up, with a user-friendly app that guides you through the process. The only downside is the price, which is quite high, but for those willing to invest in a high-quality audio experience, the KEF LS50 Wireless is worth considering.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 11.9 x 7.9 x 10.9 inches
• Weight: 22.7 pounds
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, Ethernet, RCA
• Audio Quality: Two-way bass reflex, Uni-Q driver array
• Price: $2,499

Pros

• Exceptional sound quality
• Wide range of connectivity options
• Built-in amplifiers eliminate the need for a separate receiver
• Supports high-resolution audio
• Can be used as a wireless speaker or part of a larger system

Cons

• Large and heavy, so may not be suitable for all setups
• Limited voice control options

Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex Wireless Speaker (Single)

Klipsch RP-450C

The Klipsch RP-450C is an exceptional center channel speaker that delivers clear and detailed sound with a wide soundstage. It boasts a 1-inch titanium LTS tweeter, coupled with a hybrid Tractrix horn, and dual 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofers that produce deep and accurate bass. The speaker’s sleek and modern design fits well with any home decor. The RP-450C is easy to set up, and its high-quality construction ensures it will last for years. Overall, this is a great addition to any home theater system and is highly recommended for its exceptional sound quality and performance.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 31.13 x 6.81 x 14.51 inches
• Weight: 35.4 pounds
• Connectivity: None
• Audio Quality: Two-way center channel speaker
• Price: $649

Pros

• High-quality center channel speaker
• Wide frequency response
• Can be paired with other Klipsch speakers for a larger system

Cons

• Limited connectivity options
• May not be suitable for all setups due to its size

ELAC Uni-fi UB5

Specifications

• Dimensions: 7.87 x 10.24 x 12.75 inches
• Weight: 16.31 pounds
• Connectivity: None
• Audio Quality: Three-way bookshelf speaker
• Price: $499

Pros

• Exceptional sound quality for the price
• Wide frequency response
• Can be used as part of a larger system

Cons

• May not be suitable for all setups due to its size

Definitive Technology ProCenter

Focal 165AS3 6.5

JBL Charge 4

Specifications

• Dimensions: 3.66 x 8.66 x 3.66 inches
• Weight: 2.12 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Audio Quality: Mono speaker with passive radiators
• Price: $179.95

Pros

• Affordable price
• The water-resistant design makes it great for outdoor use
• Can be paired with multiple devices for easy switching
• Long battery life

Cons

• Sound quality may not be as good as other options on this list
• Limited connectivity options

Marshall Acton II

Specifications

• Dimensions: 10.43 x 6.30 x 5.51 inches
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RCA
• Audio Quality: Stereo speaker with bass and treble control
• Price: $249

Pros

• Stylish design with iconic Marshall look
• Good sound quality with adjustable bass and treble
• Wide range of connectivity options

Cons

• The price may be a bit high for some
• May not have as good of sound quality as other options in its price range

Bose SoundLink Revolve

Specifications

• Dimensions: 3.24 x 3.24 x 6 inches
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Audio Quality: Mono speaker with passive radiators
• Price: $199

Pros

• 360-degree sound for an immersive listening experience
• The water-resistant design makes it great for outdoor use
• Long battery life
• Can be paired with another SoundLink Revolve for stereo sound

Cons

• May not have as good of sound quality as other options in its price range
• Limited connectivity options

Edifier S2000MKIII

Specifications

• Dimensions: 8.9 x 13.5 x 10.7 inches
• Weight: 31.97 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, RCA, Optical, Coaxial, USB
• Audio Quality: Two-way bookshelf speaker
• Price: $399

Pros

• High-quality sound with clear vocals and deep bass
• Wide range of connectivity options
• Can be used as part of a larger Edifier speaker system

Cons

• Maybe a bit bulky for some setups
• May not have as wide of a soundstage as some other bookshelf speakers

JBL Professional LSR310S

ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2

Specifications

• Dimensions: 7.7 x 8.5 x 14.8 inches
• Weight: 16.3 pounds
• Connectivity: None
• Audio Quality: Two-way bookshelf speaker
• Price: $349.98

Pros

• Good sound quality with clear vocals and good bass response
• Affordable price
• Attractive design

Cons

• No built-in connectivity options
• May not have as wide of a soundstage as some other bookshelf speakers

Klipsch Reference R-26FA

KEF Q350

Specifications

• Dimensions: 14.1 x 7.9 x 11.9 inches
• Weight: 14.1 pounds
• Connectivity: None
• Audio Quality: Two-way bookshelf speaker
• Price: $699.98

Pros

• Clear and detailed sound with good bass response
• Sleek and elegant design
• Wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience

Cons

• No built-in connectivity options
• The price may be a bit high for some

Vintage refers to items at least 20 years old and considered collectible or antique. In the context of speakers, vintage speakers were manufactured at least 20 years ago and are now considered collectors’ items or sought after for their unique sound qualities or historical significance.

Klipsch Heresy

The Klipsch Heresy is a vintage speaker model that was first introduced in 1957 and is still in production today. It was designed by Paul W. Klipsch, the founder of Klipsch Audio Technologies, and was originally intended as a center channel speaker with Klipsch’s Klipschorn speaker.

The Klipsch Heresy is known for its high sensitivity, which allows it to produce loud and dynamic sound with minimal power input. It also has a unique horn-loaded tweeter design, which helps to create a wide and spacious soundstage. The Klipsch Heresy is a three-way speaker, meaning it has separate drivers for the high, mid, and low frequencies, which allows for a more accurate and detailed reproduction of sound.

One of the most distinctive features of the Klipsch Heresy is its cabinet design, which is made from particle board and covered in a thin veneer of wood or cloth. The cabinet has a narrow and tall shape, intended to minimize the speaker’s footprint and allow it to be placed in various locations.

The Klipsch Heresy has gained a reputation as a classic and highly sought-after speaker among audiophiles, particularly those who are fans of rock, jazz, and other high-energy music genres. It is known for its ability to produce a powerful and dynamic sound that is capable of filling a large room. Despite its age, the Klipsch Heresy remains a popular choice among audiophiles and continues to be a staple in Klipsch’s product line.

JBL L100

The JBL L100 is a vintage speaker model introduced in 1970 and was one of JBL’s best-selling speakers. It was designed as a consumer-grade version of JBL’s professional studio monitors and was known for its clean and accurate sound reproduction.

The JBL L100 is a three-way speaker that uses a 12-inch woofer, a 5-inch midrange driver, and a 1-inch tweeter to cover the full frequency range. It is known for its powerful bass response and smooth, detailed highs. The L100 also has a distinctive appearance, with a grille made of orange foam and a unique quadra foam pattern on the cabinet.

One of the key features of the JBL L100 is its use of JBL’s “Waveguide” technology, which helps to distribute sound evenly throughout the listening area. This allows the L100 to produce a wide and immersive soundstage suitable for various music genres.

The JBL L100 has remained popular among audiophiles and collectors due to its excellent sound quality and classic design. It has undergone several updates and reissues, including a limited edition “Classic” version released in 2018 to celebrate the speaker’s 50th anniversary. Despite its age, the JBL L100 remains a highly coveted speaker among audiophiles and collectors.

Altec Lansing A7 “Voice of the Theater”

The Altec Lansing A7 “Voice of the Theater” is a vintage speaker model designed in the 1950s for use in movie theaters. It is known for its large size, powerful sound, and distinctive appearance.

The Altec Lansing A7 is a three-way speaker that uses a 15-inch woofer, a 7-inch midrange driver, and a compression horn tweeter to cover the full frequency range. It is known for its ability to produce a wide and spacious soundstage and high power handling capabilities.

One of the most distinctive features of the Altec Lansing A7 is its appearance, which includes a large wooden cabinet with a sloping front panel and a metal grille. The A7 is also known for using Altec Lansing’s “Voice Coil Cooling” technology, which helps dissipate heat and prevent distortion.

Audiophiles and collectors highly seek the Altec Lansing A7 due to its unique sound and appearance. It is considered by many to be a classic example of American audio engineering and is often seen as a symbol of the golden age of cinema. Despite its age, the Altec Lansing A7 remains popular among audiophiles and collectors.

Bose 901

The Bose 901 is a vintage speaker model introduced in 1968 and was one of the first speakers to use an active equalization system to shape the frequency response. It is known for its unique design and excellent sound quality.

The Bose 901 is a full-range speaker with nine small drivers arranged in a line to cover the full frequency range. It also includes an active equalization system that adjusts the frequency response of the speaker to better match the listening environment. This allows the Bose 901 to produce a balanced and detailed sound suitable for various music genres.

One of the most distinctive features of the Bose 901 is its design, which includes a rectangular cabinet with a sloping front panel and a metal grille. The 901 is also known for its use of Bose’s “Direct/Reflecting” technology, which reflects sound off the listening room’s walls and ceiling to create a more immersive and spacious soundstage.

The Bose 901 has gained a reputation as a classic and highly sought-after speaker among audiophiles, particularly those who are fans of jazz, classical, and other genres that require detailed and accurate sound reproduction. It is known for its excellent sound quality and unique design and remains a popular choice among audiophiles and collectors.

Cerwin Vega is a brand that specializes in audio equipment, particularly loudspeakers, and subwoofers, for professional audio, home audio, and car audio applications. The brand was founded in 1954 by Gene Czerwinski, an aerospace engineer passionate about audio engineering.

Cerwin Vega speakers are known for their powerful sound and high-quality construction, with many models featuring large woofers and horn-loaded tweeters. They are often used in concert venues, nightclubs, and other live performance settings, as well as in recording studios and home entertainment systems.

In addition to speakers, Cerwin Vega also produces amplifiers, subwoofers, and other audio accessories. The brand has a reputation for producing products that deliver high performance at a relatively affordable price, making it a popular choice among music enthusiasts and professionals.

The KLH Model Three is a high-fidelity loudspeaker system manufactured by KLH Audio Systems, a company that has been in the audio industry since the 1950s. Model Three was originally introduced in the late 1960s and has since been updated and improved upon.

The Model Three is a two-way bookshelf speaker system that features a 10-inch woofer and a 1-inch dome tweeter. The woofer is made of a polymer material that provides a clear and accurate bass response, while the tweeter is made of a soft fabric material that provides a smooth and natural high-frequency response.

The Model Three is designed to be used with a wide range of audio systems, from high-end stereo setups to home theater systems. It has a frequency response range of 35Hz to 20kHz and a sensitivity of 91dB, which means it can handle a wide range of audio frequencies and can produce a high volume level with relatively low power input.

The Model Three has a classic design that fits well in any home decor. The cabinet is made of high-quality wood veneer and is available in several finishes, including cherry, walnut, and black ash. The front grille is removable, allowing the speaker’s drivers to be exposed for a more visually appealing look.

Overall, the KLH Model Three is a well-respected and highly regarded loudspeaker system that delivers high-quality audio performance and classic design.

FAQ’s

What is a High-end Audiophile?

High-end audiophile refers to a category of audio equipment and products designed to offer the highest possible quality of sound reproduction. These products are typically aimed at audiophiles or individuals who are extremely passionate about music and place a high value on accurate and detailed sound reproduction.

High-end audiophile products can include a wide range of audio equipment, including speakers, amplifiers, turntables, and digital audio players. These products are often designed and built using advanced technologies and high-quality materials and are often more expensive than mainstream audio products.

In addition to offering superior sound quality, high-end audiophile products are often designed with a focus on aesthetics and build quality. Many high-end audiophile products are made with attention to detail and are often seen as works of art in their own right.

Overall, high-end audiophile products are aimed at individuals willing to invest in the best possible audio equipment to achieve the highest level of sound quality and enjoyment.

Do Audiophiles Prefer Headphones or Speakers?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as individual audiophiles may have different preferences regarding headphones or speakers. Some audiophiles may prefer headphones because they offer a more intimate and personal listening experience, while others may prefer speakers because they offer a more immersive and spacious soundstage.

Several factors can influence an audiophile’s preference for headphones or speakers. These can include the type of music being listened to, the size and layout of the listening environment, and personal preferences for sound quality and aesthetics.

In general, headphones may be preferred by audiophiles who value portability, convenience, and the ability to listen to music in a variety of environments. Speakers may be preferred by audiophiles who value a more immersive and spatially-aware listening experience or who have a dedicated listening room or home theater setup.

Ultimately, the choice between headphones and speakers will depend on the individual audiophile’s personal preferences and listening habits. Both types of audio equipment have unique strengths and can offer an excellent listening experience in the right circumstances.

How Do You Know if You’re an Audiophile?

An audiophile is generally defined as an individual who is extremely passionate about music and places a high value on accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Several characteristics may indicate that someone is an audiophile, including:

A strong interest in and knowledge of audio equipment: Audiophiles often have a deep understanding of different types of audio equipment and how they work and may spend a lot of time researching and comparing different products.

A willingness to invest in high-quality audio equipment: Audiophiles often prioritize sound quality above other considerations and may be willing to invest in higher-end audio equipment to achieve the best possible listening experience.

A critical ear for sound quality: Audiophiles often have a highly developed sense of hearing and can distinguish subtle differences in sound quality. They may be able to identify specific flaws or imperfections in audio recordings or equipment.

A strong emotional connection to music: Audiophiles often have a strong emotional connection and may find that listening to music is a deeply personal and meaningful experience.

Ultimately, whether someone is considered an audiophile is a matter of personal preference and individual interest. There is no hard and fast rule for what makes someone an audiophile, but these characteristics may indicate a strong passion for music and sound quality.

Are Audiophile Speakers Worth It?

Whether audiophile speakers are worth, it will depend on several factors, including an individual’s personal preferences and budget.

Audiophile speakers are generally considered high-end audio equipment designed to offer the highest possible quality of sound reproduction. These speakers are often built using advanced technologies and high-quality materials and are typically more expensive than mainstream audio equipment.

For some individuals, the extra cost of audiophile speakers may be worth it due to their superior sound quality and build quality. Audiophile speakers are often designed to offer a more accurate and detailed reproduction of sound, which can result in a more enjoyable listening experience for those who are extremely passionate about music.

However, for others, the cost of audiophile speakers may not be justified, especially if they do not place a high value on sound quality or do not have the budget to invest in higher-end audio equipment. In these cases, more mainstream speakers may offer sufficient sound quality at a lower price.

Ultimately, whether audiophile speakers are worth will depend on an individual’s personal preferences and budget and what they are looking to get out of their listening experience.

What Percent of People Are Audiophiles?

It is difficult to determine exactly what percentage of people are audiophiles, as the term “audiophile” does not have a strict definition and can be subjective. Some people may consider themselves audiophiles if they have a strong interest in music and place a high value on sound quality. In contrast, others may not consider themselves audiophiles unless they deeply understand audio equipment and are willing to invest in high-end audio products.

In addition, different people may use the term “audiophile” differently, and there is no standard definition of what constitutes an audiophile. Some people may use the term to refer to anyone interested in music and sound quality. In contrast, others may use it to refer only to those who are extremely passionate about audio equipment and willing to invest in the highest-quality audio products.

Overall, it is likely that a relatively small percentage of people would consider themselves audiophiles by the most strict definition of the term. However, a much larger percentage of people may have a strong interest in music and place a high value on sound quality, even if they do not consider themselves audiophiles.

What are the best audiophile speakers for rock?

Conclusion

In conclusion, audiophiles highly coveted vintage speakers due to their unique sound qualities, classic designs, and historical significance. Some of the audiophiles’ most coveted vintage speaker models include the Klipsch Heresy, JBL L100, Altec Lansing A7 “Voice of the Theater,” and Bose 901.

The Klipsch Heresy is a classic speaker known for its high sensitivity, horn-loaded tweeter design, and distinctive cabinet design. The JBL L100 is a highly sought-after speaker due to its clean and accurate sound reproduction, powerful bass response, and unique appearance. The Altec Lansing A7 “Voice of the Theater” is a vintage speaker known for its large size, powerful sound, and distinctive appearance. The Bose 901 is a classic speaker known for its unique design, excellent sound quality, and use of active equalization to shape the frequency response.

Overall, vintage speakers remain popular among audiophiles and collectors due to their superior sound quality, unique design, and historical significance. They are often considered the “crown jewels” of an audiophile’s collection and can command high prices due to their rarity and demand.