After much anticiaption, Bang & Olufsen have released the BeoLab 9. This acoustic lens speaker had been expected for some time, and it effectively replaces BeoLab 1 which was discontinued last year.
The design of BeoLab 9 continues B&O’s move away from elegant though easily imitated column loudspeakers to shorter, rounder forms with larger cabinet volumes and better potential for strong bass performance. B&O’s distinctive acoustic lens is also present, and the speakers’s height means that it is perfectly positioned at ear-level when the listener is seated.
The acoustic lens is cast from zinc and plated with matt chrome. Its prominent position gives the speaker a slightly hunched appearance - but B&O compare it to a lighthouse. The overall proportions are pleasing and there are some very nice details. For example, the power LED is concealed inside the acoustic lens, and the cooling fins/vents at the rear match the curve of the cabinet. The majority of the cabinet is fabric covered - black will probably be the most popular choice here, but it is also available in dark grey, blue and red.
There are three drivers: a 10” bass unit in an 18 litre enclosure, a 5” mid-range unit in a 4 litre enclosure and a 0.75” treble unit in the acoustic lens. All drivers are separately amplified, but there is only one ICEpower amplifier of 500W which drives the bass unit. The mid-range and treble units each have their own 100W analogue hybrid amplifier.
Cabinet finish : Black cloth, aluminium
Power consumption 65W (IEC60065)
25W typical < 0,5W in standby
Power amplifier, bass 400W, 4 ohm, class D ICEpower
Power amplifier, midrange 100W, 6 ohm, class AB
Power amplifier, treble 100W, 8 ohm, class AB
Effective Frequency range 30 - 20.000 Hz
Crossover frequency 180/2000 Hz
Cabinet principle Closed box
Net volume, bass 18 litres
Net volume, midrange 4 litres
Magnetically shielded No. Must be placed > 50cm from picture
tube
Woofer 10" / 250mm cone
Midrange 5" / 125mm cone
Tweeter 3/4" / 19mm dome in acoustic lens
Bass equalization ABL (Adaptive Bass Linearization)
Input sensitivity (Power Link) 125mV @ 91dB SPL
Input sensitivity (line) 125mV @ 91dB SPL
Switch off time (line) Automatic on /off (up to 3min)
Indicator On/Off LED placed in the acoustic lens
Operation Switch for Free standing - Against wall - In corner
Switch for Left - Right - Line (via PL plug)
Protection Thermal protection of all drivers.
ABL system protects the bass unit against mechanical damage.
Power supply Automatic voltage adaptation 100-120Vac or
190-240Vac
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