Acoustic Research Edge Sequel (1988–1991)

A compact, weather-resistant bookshelf speaker with a neutral sound, part of AR's effort to deliver high fidelity at an affordable price.

Overview

The Acoustic Research Edge Sequel is a bookshelf loudspeaker built from 1988 to 1991 as part of AR's EDGE series. The series aimed to give budget-conscious audiophiles efficient, high-fidelity sound. It was designed for indoor and outdoor use, and the injection-molded ABS resin enclosure is what makes it weather-resistant. The sound is clean and balanced, with tight bass and clear mids. That is a move away from the warmer tonality of earlier AR models and toward a more neutral, transparent signature. It was used in consumer and research settings, including stereo playback setups in scientific experiments.

Specifications

Enclosure Type	Acoustic Suspension System
Woofer	4-1/2" (11.4 cm) cone type with rubber surround
Tweeter	1" polycarbonate dome type
Frequency Response	120 Hz to 20 kHz ± 3 dB
Sensitivity	89 dB (2.83V/1m)
Impedance	8 Ω
Power Handling (RMS)	100W
Crossover Frequency	4.2kHz
External Dimensions	7-1/2"H x 5-1/2"W x 4-13/16"D (190mm x 140mm x 122mm)
Weight	1.5kg
Cabinet Design	Non-parallel walls to reduce internal standing waves
Internal Damping	Acoustic Blanket material
Crossover Design	Phase-coherent 2nd-order network
Warranty	5 Years (parts)

Design

The Edge Sequel uses an injection-molded ABS resin enclosure, which gives it durability and weather resistance indoors or out. It is a 2-way design with a 4-1/2" woofer and a 1" polycarbonate dome tweeter, both with anti-magnetic construction. The phase-coherent crossover keeps the drivers time aligned. Non-parallel cabinet walls and internal acoustic blanket damping cut down resonance and standing waves. A rotating stand/bracket is included for flexible placement.

Context

The Edge Sequel came out in 1988. Acoustic Research wanted to stay competitive in a changing audio market, and the plan was high-fidelity performance at an accessible price. The sound was more neutral than the warmer classic AR models. It was marketed for stereo systems, home theater setups and outdoor installations.

Market

The Edge Sequel is moderately collectible, and working pairs typically sell for $100 - $250. Common problems are dried ferrofluid in the tweeters, degraded electrolytic capacitors in the crossover, disintegrating foam grilles, and corroded or loose binding posts. Fully restored units with component upgrades may command higher prices.