PIONEER S-LH5 (1995) | Linear Power

 

Engineered with the advanced acoustic expertise of TAD (Technical Audio Devices), this high-performance speaker system was built around the pursuit of clear, dynamic, and richly detailed sound. At its core is a 22 cm cone woofer featuring a proprietary Linear Power system that eliminates conventional edge structures, reducing unwanted resonance and improving cone control. Combined with a high-density edgewise voice coil, optimized magnetic efficiency, and a specially aged and tuned diaphragm, the woofer delivers deep, accurate bass with exceptional stability. The rigid aluminum die-cast frame further enhances structural integrity and acoustic precision. High frequencies are reproduced by an advanced AFAST (Acoustical Filter Associated System Tuning) horn tweeter, derived directly from TAD technology. Its circular horn design ensures uniform dispersion, while the precise balance of direct and reflected sound creates a wide, immersive soundstage with crisp, natural detail. An integrated acoustic tube absorbs internal resonance, eliminating unwanted coloration and stabilizing the sound image. The system incorporates a newly developed high-efficiency compression driver, featuring a precision-engineered 2.5-slit phasing plug and an edgewise voice coil directly bonded to an aluminum diaphragm for minimal signal loss. A heat-treated titanium edge further reduces internal distortion, enabling fast, highly accurate transient response and superior sonic purity. For added flexibility, a three-position high-frequency attenuator allows fine adjustment to suit different listening environments. The crossover network is carefully optimized for phase coherence, with separate low- and high-frequency circuit boards to minimize crosstalk. Premium components—including a newly developed air-core choke coil, high-grade capacitors, and specially twisted internal wiring—ensure signal integrity throughout. A dedicated matching speaker stand (CP-LH5) was available as an optional accessory. Specifications: 2-way, 2-speaker, bass-reflex | Impedance 6 ohm | Frequency range 33 Hz to 30.000 Hz | SPL 90dB/W/m | Max. power 160W | Dimensions (W/H/D) 370x575x328mm | Weight 19,2kg | Original sale price in Japan ¥ 65,000

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GRUNDIG 5000 (1980) | High Fidelity

 

The Grundig 5000 series High Fidelity system was introduced in 1980 and it consists of a series of high quality components. Let's start with the tuner. Right at the top. Because it's located right at the top—not just in the picture. Its highly sensitive input sensitivity of 0.5 µV with a dynamic selectivity of more than 60 dB brings in virtually every station with pure, unadulterated enjoyment. The digital frequency display shows you exactly which one, and its microprocessor-controlled quartz synthesizer using PLL technology locks it in with quartz precision. If you like, with its Intermix preset station memory you can store 29 programs as well. Class-A preamplifier. In German hi-fi magazine Audio Test 3/80 it received: "Excellent value for money." No wonder: total harmonic distortion below 0.01%, input for moving-coil cartridges, level switch (allowing you to adjust the loudness to the speaker efficiency and listening room), and a 400 Hz tone generator should be enough to pique your interest. The channel-separated 4-channel tone control network will then really get you going. Cassette deck CF 5500: With two tone generators, the frequency response and level can also be adapted to any non-standard tape formulation. After all, you should be able to fully enjoy the 25 to 18,000 Hz range and the 70 dB dynamic range without loss. Of course, there's more to it than that: the 2-motor drive with quartz-controlled capstan motor, the 3-head monitoring of the recording, and so on, and so on. All Made in Germany.

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SONY TA-N77ES / TA-E77ESD (1988)

Introduced in 1988 the SONY TA-N77ES was the only power amplifier ever from SONY to support large VU meters as a visual element. ​Power amplifiers are usually tested when hooked up to 8-ohm laboratory resistors. While results may look fine on a spec sheet, they simply ignore an undeniable fact. Real loudspeakers - even those nominally rated at 8 ohms - simply refuse to behave like laboratory resistors. While the resistor presents a simple impedance that's constant at all audio frequencies, the speaker presents a complex impedance that varies dramatically. A typical "8-ohm" loudspeaker can have impedance peaks higher than 30 ohms and impedance dips lower than...Read More Here