Old Speakers That New Audiophiles Want
The Hi-Fi industry is always changing. Every day something new comes out that promises to revolutionize sound. And, as audiophiles well know, that might actually sometimes be true. But in all the clamor for the latest and greatest, it can be easy to overlook the old-time Hi-Fi setups that laid the groundwork for modern-day sound systems. Here’s a closer look at some of the legendary audio setups that have stood the test of time, and why they’re sought after by new-age audiophiles.
JBL 4311
A classic speaker series dating back to the early 70s, JBL 4311s used their 4-inch polydome tweeters and 12-inch woofers to deliver brilliant sound. They’ve been a staple of recording studios and music venues ever since. The wood grain cabinets and handcrafted birch cabinets made them as much of a visual delight as a sonic one – and they’re still prized among new and experienced audio fans alike.
Coles 4038s
Coles had their own label of speakers and one line in particular – the 4038s – have some devotees. As if building on the legacy of JBL’s 4311s, these are dubbed the ‘studio monitors’ of choice. While they might not have the twinkly highs of their predecessor, the additional 8-inch woofer gives them a massive low-end response and huge sound stage sensibilities.
Quad ESL-57
The Quad ESL-57s were one of the first Electrostatic loudspeaker systems to produce a sound that represented to a sound recording in an almost life-like way. With such a pleasing sound, the Quad ESL-57s still have a wide-ranging audience today – mostly those that are willing to invest in the older technology and pay the premium to do so.
Infinity RSW-10
Infinity is no stranger to the Hi-Fi world, and the company created a significant number of separate speaker lines. One series – the RSW-10 – is notable for its stunningly clear and dynamic sound. Its 8” oversized woofer and 6 ¾” midrange drive deliver a pleasingly rich soundstage and a studio-level of sounds accuracy.
Heco Direkt
Heco Direkt may not be the first name to come up when talking about old speakers, but their Direkt series provides plenty to love for old and new audiophiles alike. Direkt features a 9” woofer coupled with a midrange/tweeter array for plenty of versatility. The four-way active system was also highly revered for its 800-watt power output (an impressive number for back then).
Altec Lansing Model 19
The Lansing line from Altec has always been highly esteemed, and its signature Model 19 12” speaker system is no exception. Developed in order to recreate accurate sound in recording sessions, the Model 19’s massive 15” cone drivers and tweeters help create full and detailed imaging. They’re still seen as the unique soundscape creators of the day, and are generally well-respected to this day.
JBL L112s
The JBL L112s were the first of the company’s box-shape design, making them popular among the younger generations of Hi-Fi fans. The 12” woofer and 5” midrange driver deliver plenty of power, while the externally-mounted tweeter offers plenty of detail and along with an unrivaled presence.
Reasons Why New Audiophiles Love Old Speakers
It’s no wonder that old speakers have made a come back in the eyes of the new generation of audiophiles. Here are a few reasons why:
Un-compressed Sound: Old speakers provide a soundscape that is un-compressed and has remained that way for decades. This sound is often referred to as “vintage” and will remain distinct when considered next to a digitally compressed sound.
Aesthetics: Older speakers tend to look just as good as they sound. The wooden cabinets and attractive designs typically associated with older speaker systems can lend a real aesthetic charm to a modern Hi-Fi setup.
Highly Respected: Many experienced audiophiles regard the legendary speaker setups as the gold standard for creating great sound. As such, modern day audiophiles want to experience the same quality sound that these earlier models are known for.
Though the audio world has certainly changed since the days of the old-fashioned Hi-Fi, it’s not so different that these classic speaker systems don’t still have a place. The wood grain cabinets and rumbling bass of the JBL 4311s; the clarity and detail of the Cole 4038s; the accurate sound reproduction of Quad ESL-57’s; the deep lows of the Infinity RSW-10, the dynamic sound of the Heco Direkt, and the enveloping imaging of the Altec Lansing 19: all these remain hallmark staples of Hi-Fi sound, and all remain desirable even in today’s audio market. New audiophiles may be looking for something new, but they’re also looking to the old to capture something the new can’t.
