Are my Reledyne Acoustic Research AR-9 speakers still good?

[Guest rhimbo]

Hi there,

I've inherited a brand new pair of AR-9 speakers from my dad. They are brand new in that they've never been used, however they are probably about 15 years old.

Are these still "good?" Do the cones go bad? Can one replace them? I have no doubt the electronics are good. And the enclosures are pristine.

Thanks,

Vartan

[dingus]

if they are Teledyne AR-9's then they are about 25 years old. in the condition you describe, the only pressing issue would the the foam deteriorating on the surrounds.

aside from that, the capacitors, or "caps", on the crossovers may or may not need to be replaced. i would make sure your foam surrounds are in good order first, then listen to them (at moderate levels) and see how they sound. they do like lots of clean power, but i have run mine with as little as 110wpc with good results. make sure you have them set up correctly in the room, that is the back of the speakers within 2" of the wall and 3' of clearance on both sides of each speaker.

even if they sound dull and lifeless at first listen, the caps may only need some time to reform or "wake up" before they sound as they should. if they dont wake up after a few days, look to have the caps replaced.

you have an outstanding pair of speakers on your hands. you owe it to yourself to take care of any maintenace issues they might need. you will be greatly rewarded if you do.

here's mine in my main stereo rig.

http://www.frappr.com/?a=viewphoto&id=5766...9643&myphotos=1

[Guest Eunomians]

Those are one of the best speakers ever made.

As mentioned, make sure that the surrounds are still intact before lettin' her rip.

Enjoy them, and enjoy them loudly because they sound great! You need a lot pof power to get 'em going right.

[prrtraincow]

Those are the speakers that we should all bow to 3 times each day. I have heard them many times, although I've never been lucky enough to own a pair.

From what you describe, any repairs these speakers might need are a pittance to what they are worth, and they are absolutely worth keeping. You'd have to look far and wide to find speakers that good.

One thing about the power requirement: yes, DEFINITELY 100 watts + at a minimum. 150 would be better. But I believe they are 4 ohm impedance, so make sure you look at power ratings into 4 ohms, not 8, when you choose your amplifier.