A.R. Red Box II Speakers

[Edmund]

I've been offered a pair of red box II speakers which need new foam surrounds on the bass drivers. Now excuse my ignorance, but I notice that they don't make any appearance on these pages - are they considered a poor example compared with the classic designs? - I admit that they don't look or feel too impressive (very light to handle) although I haven't heard them properly. Any enlightenment would be appreciated!

[Robert_S]

You may be surprised at how good they can sound. The distinctly non-classic grille and model-logo design thankfully do not affect that quality. As has been previously noted, they are close in spirit to the AR-18s, and to the later AR-18 AV Rock Partners (which used the same drivers).

See also:

www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=377192

Robert_S

AR-1210037-2A-603TNB

AR Red Box II


AR-18 AV Rock Partners


AR-18s (Black finish)

[michiganpat]

I have 2 pair of AR18 (the original ADD version) and just picked up some Rock Partners on ebay for $.99 (plus $28 shipping), and the rock partners are quite good, they sound slightly different than my refoamed/recapped 18's, I can't quite put my finger on it. the rock partners have a slightly higher xover (5uf cap vs. a 6uf cap on the 18's) the R.P.'s newer Tonegen souced woofer almost seems to have a higher roll off point because the rock partners sound more like my Holographic Imaging M5's, having a little more midrange presence, and sounding more "foreward"

if they're cheap I'd grab them

[Edmund]

Thanks for the replies, I've now acquired them and fitted new foams. I can see the similarity to the AR18s , these also have a 6uf cap and sound remarkably good after repairs, smooth but quite up front . I'm powering them from a quad 405-2 power amp attached to a digital church organ at present, and they handle everything thrown at them including some very deep bass and high volume.