Acoustic Research AR3a - Iconic Classics

We obviously have seen, heard, owned, purchased and sold hundreds of speakers. We have spoken in tongues on some loudspeakers, extolling their virtues and using adjective after adjective to describe what they do to music.  Here's one loudspeaker which has become so iconic that we've run out of adjectives.  It is ranked Number 1 on the list of “Top 10 Most Influential Speakers of All Time" - That should say enough!

The Acoustic Research AR3a is not only significant because of its revolutionary and relatively compact acoustic suspension design, but because it still delivers extraordinary sound even after 60+ years since its introduction. 

The AR3a set the bar for acoustic suspension speakers for decades.  The high power handling of the tightly sprung 11.5” paper pulp cone woofer produces low, powerful bass down to 30Hz.  The marquee Acoustic Research soft dome midrange with fiberglass diffuser, and hard paper cone dome tweeter combine for a very sweet, laid-back high end that can be listened to all day long.

This pair has been completely serviced.  Woofer alignment and service, new crossover capacitors, and new potentiometers have been installed.  All components have been tested and verified to work perfectly.  The balance and impact of what these speakers can deliver when paired with the right amp, is extraordinary.  

The original American Walnut wood veneer has been refinished in natural finishing oil using the same methods originally adopted by the AR engineers in 1965 when these were built.  The grille cloth has been replaced with a modern poly/linen blend that maintains acoustic transparency to 18,000 Hz.  And the badges on this example are all original. The beauty of this speaker is apparent on the surface, and of course in the sound!

In-person demos are available here in Andover, MA. Local sale preferred as they are too delicate and heavy to ship.  But we could arrange to freight delivery if necessary. 

$1999/pair (plus MA sales tax)

* Solid walnut stands are NOT included but can be for an additional $240/pair