Acoustic Research AR-6 (1971)

Loudspeaker system introduced in 1971 with acoustic suspension design and an 8-inch woofer for balanced, accurate sound reproduction.

Overview

The Acoustic Research AR-6 is a loudspeaker system produced in 1971, built to give maximum performance at a moderate cost. It is one of Acoustic Research's less expensive models, yet it compares closely with the more established AR-4x and is nearly identical to the AR-4xa. The differences are woofer resonance and cabinet depth. In listening tests the AR-6 quickly got recognized as a superior performer, praised for natural sound, tight bass and revealing transparency. It was predicted to become the standard in the under-$100 speaker class at the time of release.

Specifications

Drive Units	1 x 203mm (8 inch) acoustic suspension woofer, 1 x 32mm (1 1/4 inch) cone tweeter
Crossover	1800 Hz
Impedance	8 Ohms
Amplifier/Power Handling	20 to 40 watts recommended
Size	305mm (12 in) H x 495mm (19 1/2 in) W x 178mm (7 in) D
Weight	9.1kg (20 lbs.)
Woofer Resonance	Free air 25 Hz, in enclosure 56 Hz
Volume of enclosure	18.5 litres (0.65 cu ft.)
Frequency response	38 - 20000 Hz
Sensitivity	86 dB
Controls	High Frequency level adjustment

Design

The AR-6 uses acoustic suspension design. The cabinet is slightly higher and wider than the AR-4xa but 2 inches shallower, with nearly the same internal volume. The 8-inch woofer has an optimized voice-coil size, magnetic circuit, diaphragm weight and suspension for maximum theoretical performance, and it uses foam as the surround material. The 32mm tweeter was built specifically for the AR-6. It uses the magnet structure of the AR-4x but with a 1.5-inch cone and a 5/8-inch center dome. The viscous-damped voice coil gives smooth, wide high-frequency response and excellent dispersion.

Context

The AR-6 was designed to get the highest performance possible out of a moderately priced speaker, which made it an alternative to larger, more expensive models. It is comparable to the AR-4x and has deceptively similar specifications, though it outperformed the AR-4x in listening tests. Reviewers noted the AR-6's superior tweeter performance and transient response, and predicted it would supplant the AR-4x as the best seller in its class. It is considered sonically reminiscent of the flagship AR-3a, with a natural, uncolored sound and no bass hype.

Market

The AR-6 sells today for $150 to $350 in good condition. Foam surrounds are known to degrade over time, but replacement kits are readily available and affordable, typically around $30 for a pair. For repairs, experts recommend sending units to Bill Miller at Millersound. Original price was $81.00 as of January 1972.