Bang & Olufsen 700 Speakers (1975)
The Bang & Olufsen 700 is a pair of passive loudspeakers introduced in the mid-1970s. It came from the Danish maker's habit of pairing high-fidelity sound with minimalist design. It was built to fit with other Bang & Olufsen audio components of the era.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | Bang & Olufsen 700 |
| Year of Release | 1975 |
| Type | Passive 2-way bookshelf speakers |
| Driver Configuration | 2-way: woofer + tweeter with acoustic lens |
| Tweeter | Dome tweeter with patented acoustic lens |
| Woofer | Mid-bass driver with foam surround |
| Impedance | 4–8 ohms (compatible with most B&O amplifiers) |
| Sensitivity | Not officially documented |
| Power Handling | Passive – requires external amplifier |
| Crossover | Internal passive crossover network |
| Cabinet Material | Solid beech wood with natural finish |
| Dimensions (per unit) | Approx. 30 cm H × 18 cm W × 15 cm D |
| Weight | ~4.5 kg per speaker |
| Color Options | Natural beech, dark-stained wood variants |
| Designed For | Integration with B&O Beovox and Beolab systems |
Design and Key Features
The 700 has a clean Scandinavian look. The cabinet is solid beech wood, which makes it durable and gives it a warm finish that suits mid-century interiors. The most distinctive part is the acoustic lens tweeter, a B&O technology that spreads high frequencies more evenly across the room. That reduces "beaming" and gives a wider sweet spot.
This 2-way speaker system was engineered for use within Bang & Olufsen’s ecosystem, particularly with their Beovox amplifiers and turntables. Its impedance range of 4-8 ohms makes it compatible with most B&O receivers of the period, which were designed to work best with their own speakers.
Sound Signature
The 700 has a balanced and refined sound. The acoustic lens improves clarity in the highs, so the treble is crisp but not fatiguing. The midrange is smooth and suits vocals and acoustic music. The bass is modest because the cabinet is compact, but it is well-controlled and articulate.
These speakers work best in small to medium-sized rooms, and they do best when paired with matching vintage B&O electronics.
Historical Significance
The Bang & Olufsen 700 arrived during a period of rapid innovation in consumer audio, and it reflects the brand’s focus on design integration and system coherence. In the 1970s, B&O set itself apart from competitors by treating an audio system as one unit, with speakers, amplifiers, and turntables designed together for performance and looks.
The 700 was part of a broader family of speakers that emphasized craftsmanship and technical innovation. It was not the flagship of its time. It was accessible luxury, and it became a staple of European hi-fi setups, particularly in Denmark and Germany.
Collectibility and Market Value
The collectibility rating is 6/10. The Bang & Olufsen 700 appeals mainly to vintage audio enthusiasts and B&O collectors. Their value rests more on design heritage and brand prestige than on raw performance by modern standards.
- Market Value: $100–$300 per pair, depending on condition
- Factors Affecting Value: Original finish, working condition, presence of foam degradation, and completeness (grilles, mounting hardware)
Well-maintained pairs with original components command higher prices, especially in Scandinavia and Western Europe.
Maintenance and Restoration Tips
Vintage speakers like the Bang & Olufsen 700 need attention to aging components:
Common Issues:
- Degraded Foam Surrounds: Common in speakers from this era. Foam can disintegrate after 40+ years, leading to distorted bass or complete driver failure.
- Aging Crossover Capacitors: May dry out or leak, affecting sound quality and potentially damaging drivers.
- Cabinet Scratches/Wear: Beech wood is durable but susceptible to scratches and discoloration over time.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Inspect the Woofers: Check for crumbling foam. If it's crumbling, consider reconing or replacing the drivers.
2. Capacitor Replacement: Have a qualified technician inspect and recap the crossover network. This restores clarity and protects the tweeters.
3. Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth on the cabinet. For deeper cleaning, use a wood-safe polish suited to natural finishes - avoid silicone-based products.
4. Proper Placement: Keep them away from direct sunlight and humidity to protect the wood and internal components.
5. Use with Appropriate Amplifiers: Pair with low-to-mid powered tube or solid-state amps, especially B&O-branded models for authentic sound.
Conclusion
The Bang & Olufsen 700 is more than just a vintage speaker—it's a piece of audio design history. With its elegant wood cabinet, innovative acoustic lens, and integration-focused engineering, it remains a desirable addition to any retro hi-fi setup. While it requires care and occasional restoration, its timeless design and signature B&O sound continue to captivate audiophiles and collectors alike.
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