The New Advent Loudspeaker (1968)

Introduced in 1968 by Henry Kloss after his departure from KLH, The New Advent Loudspeaker quickly became a landmark in home audio history. Combining innovative acoustic suspension technology with high-fidelity performance at a relatively accessible price, this speaker set a new standard for affordable, accurate sound reproduction in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Years of Production	1968–1974
Recommended Amplifier Power	15–50 Watts
Nominal Impedance	8 ohms
Sensitivity	90 dB (1W/1m)
Crossover Frequencies	500 Hz (woofer to midrange), 3.5 kHz (midrange to tweeter)
Drivers	10-inch woofer, 5-inch midrange, 3-inch dome tweeter
Enclosure Type	Acoustic suspension (sealed box)
Cabinet Finish	Walnut veneer
Grille	Black foam with fabric cover
Dimensions (H×W×D)	22.5" × 12" × 10.5" (571 × 305 × 267 mm)
Weight	42 lbs (19 kg) per speaker

Historical Significance

Designed by audio pioneer Henry Kloss, The New Advent Loudspeaker was one of the first consumer speakers to bring high-quality acoustic suspension design to a broader market. This technology, originally developed by Edgar Villchur and refined by Kloss at KLH, allowed for tighter, more accurate bass response without the need for large ported enclosures.

After leaving KLH, Kloss founded Advent Corporation with the goal of creating high-performance audio equipment that remained affordable. The New Advent Loudspeaker achieved that balance perfectly, earning critical acclaim for its natural tonal balance, detailed midrange, and surprisingly deep bass for a sealed cabinet design.

It became a favorite among audiophiles and casual listeners alike, often paired with receivers from brands like Marantz, Sansui, and Pioneer. Its success helped solidify the reputation of American-designed loudspeakers during a golden era of hi-fi innovation.

Sound Signature

The New Advent Loudspeaker delivers a balanced, warm, and natural sound profile. Its acoustic suspension design contributes to tight, well-controlled bass that avoids the boominess common in ported designs of the era. The midrange is smooth and articulate, making it ideal for vocal and acoustic recordings. The 3-inch tweeter provides clear high-frequency reproduction without the harshness found in some contemporary designs, resulting in a listening experience that remains enjoyable even by modern standards.

This speaker excels with jazz, classical, and rock recordings from the 1960s and 70s, offering a sonic window into the era in which it was created.

Maintenance and Restoration Tips

Due to their age, most surviving units require some degree of restoration to perform optimally:

Refoaming: The foam surrounds on both the 10-inch woofer and 5-inch midrange driver are prone to deterioration. Refoaming is a common and recommended restoration step to restore bass response and prevent driver damage.
Crossover Components: The capacitors in the passive crossover network may have degraded over time. Replacing electrolytic and paper capacitors with modern equivalents can significantly improve clarity and reliability.
Grille Care: The original foam grilles often sag or discolor. While replacement fabric is available, many owners opt to restore the original look using gentle cleaning and reshaping techniques.
Cabinet Inspection: Check for loose joints or veneer lifting. The walnut finish can be carefully cleaned with a wood-safe polish, but avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the vintage surface.

Restored pairs are highly sought after and can deliver performance that rivals modern bookshelf speakers when properly maintained.

Market Value and Collectibility

Current Market Value: $150–$400 per pair, depending on condition and restoration quality
Collectibility Rating: 7/10

While not as rare as some boutique contemporaries, The New Advent Loudspeaker holds strong appeal among vintage audio enthusiasts. Fully restored units with upgraded components often command higher prices, especially when sold with original packaging or documentation.

Its combination of historical importance, solid build quality, and enduring sound ensures its place in the pantheon of classic American loudspeakers.

Conclusion

The New Advent Loudspeaker stands as a milestone in audio engineering—a speaker that brought high-fidelity sound to the mainstream without compromising performance. Designed by one of the true visionaries of American audio, it remains a rewarding listen and a worthy centerpiece for any vintage audio collection. With proper care and restoration, these speakers continue to deliver the warm, natural sound that made them legendary.