Digital products occupy the lion's share of the audio equipment market. Manufacturers strive to offer more and more advanced and technologically advanced systems, working out every characteristic to the smallest detail. But in parallel with this process, a special niche of vintage radio engineering is also being formed. Representatives of this class have their own original appearance, not only external, but also internal. It is wrong to think that this is equipment, the image of which only imitates the "old" acoustics. A vintage audio system in the modern sense is also a technologically advanced product. Another thing is that it was developed on the traditional principles of operation of models produced 20 or more years ago.
Features of vintage acoustics
If in the production of modern systems the most relevant areas of development are communication technologies and methods for optimizing signal transmission channels, then in creating vintage models, engineers focused on the structural base. In particular, a lot of attention was paid to the manufacture of a paper cone, due to which the acoustics reproduce the sound. The vintage model involves the inclusion of this component, made according to classical methods. Sovietradio factories, for example, used softwood rosin or nitrocellulose varnish when casting the cone. The same technological methods, but in a modernized form, are also used by some modern manufacturers.
Of course, external features distinguish vintage equipment. As a rule, such equipment has a small number of analog interfaces, has impressive dimensions and a characteristic design. On the other hand, the real connoisseurs of the segment are reluctant to accept the deliberate repetition of individual aesthetic shades with a reference to the past. Still, naturally designed acoustics are welcome, the vintage filling of which also fully reflects its strengths and weaknesses.
Key Features
Nominal technical and operational indicators differ little from today's standards. The sound picture is only reproduced with a different quality, but the levels of power potentials, for example, are generally preserved. So, most vintage models provide for a bundle with a 200 watt amplifier unit. This is a full-length massive acoustics, but there are also less impressive systems operating at powers of the order of 100-150 watts. The frequency range averages 25-30,000 Hz. Depending on the model, vintage acoustics focuses on the study of a particular area in the sound spectrum. In this regard, analog technology is more prominent and unstable. This factor is liked by many music lovers, because it creates a feeling of live natural sound. In terms of size, the middle segmentoffers 10-15 inch speakers encased in wooden cabinets. The professional category also accepts 25 drivers.
Producers
The greatest interest from audiophiles of different levels is Japanese equipment. Moreover, this country is interesting not for 2-3 brands, but for a whole bunch of companies that have made progress in this niche. If today the speaker systems of Yamaha, Pioneer and Sony are of interest, then 20-30 years ago the manufacturers of Diatone, Onkyo and Sansui enjoyed confidence in the world. What attracted the Japanese audio system? Each model had its own merits, but in general, developers from different companies sought to expand playback capabilities. In the face of fierce competition, the basic sound qualities increased, including the same frequency range, power, detail, etc. On the world market, Japanese brands compete with vintage Philips acoustics, German Sennheiser systems and others.
Reviews of Diatone models
This manufacturer produced acoustics in a classic form factor and mostly in a three-way configuration. A typical representative of the family is the DS-77EX complex. The owners of the device note that its capabilities are enough to cover the entire frequency range. This is a versatile vintage acoustic from Japan that produces a strong and large-scale sound. Most importantly, Diatone was responsible for the release of accessories for their systems. Today one ofThe most pressing problem for fans of vintage technology is the lack of suitable additions and components. In this case, finding the right fittings is not so difficult.
Reviews of Philips models
The Dutch company is also a small manufacturer and focuses on large-scale projects. One of the most interesting developments of the past years is the 22AH466 speaker system. Shelf-type modification with a three-lane layout. In the frequency spectrum, the model is more focused on vocal compositions. According to listeners, the small 5-inch driver delivers exquisite and captivating note processing with minimal interference. In addition, vintage Philips acoustics in this version have special finishing materials. Users point to the presence of precious wood veneer in the body and the original fabric finish under the plastic rim.
Reviews of Pioneer models
In the family of this manufacturer, the model of 1988 is interesting - S-55TwinSD. This is a shelf system based on alnico magnets. The package includes three speakers, complemented by one virtual broadband. The listening experience is described positively by many users. In this version, vintage Pioneer acoustics have a deep and enveloping bass, and two bass reflexes bring shades of amorphousness. At the same time, it is difficult to call a universal system. It is rather recommended for opening upper registers.
Where to buy and how much?
It has already been said that connoisseurs of analog sound often face problems finding accessories for their systems. But the acoustics itself is not sold in ordinary stores. You can search for rare specimens in specialized salons, pawnshops or through Internet sites. For example, on the portal with Avito announcements, vintage acoustics are presented quite widely, covering almost all of the above manufacturers. Models of little-known brands, like Diatone, on this site are estimated at 30-40 thousand rubles. Equipment of the same level as Sony and Philips is sold for an average of 60-90 thousand, depending on the characteristics of acoustics.
Conclusion
When switching to vintage equipment, some features of its use should be taken into account. It is important to understand that modern equipment has advanced far in terms of physical strength and reliability due to the use of an element base with increased protective qualities. But in models of the old type, it is necessary to protect the same cases from contact with moisture, and protect the electromagnetic filling with surge protectors. As for the very choice of a suitable model, the best vintage acoustics are those that reveal the frequency range most deeply and softly. And if for digital technology the inclusion of third-party shades is a big minus, then vintage analog systems only add sophistication by diluting the sound stream with their own adjustments. Some complexes have a completely unique sound, due to an unusual combination of materials in the design. For thisoriginality and prized vintage speakers.
