Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RL45 (1987)

The Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RL45 is a landmark in high-fidelity audio design, representing the Danish company’s unwavering commitment to blending cutting-edge acoustic technology with minimalist, sculptural aesthetics. Released in 1987, the RL45 was part of B&O’s prestigious BeoLab series, which targeted audiophiles and design connoisseurs seeking both sonic excellence and architectural elegance. Though initially categorized under “unknown” in many vintage audio databases, the RL45 has since been recognized as a significant floor-standing active speaker system that exemplifies the innovation and luxury associated with Bang & Olufsen during the late 20th century.

Design and Aesthetic Philosophy

David Lewis designed the BeoLab RL45. He is also known for the BeoCenter 950 and BeoVision MX 2000. The speaker has a tall, slender profile and an aluminum and wood composite enclosure. A brushed aluminum midsection sits between solid teak or black oak side panels.

The RL45 stands approximately 110 cm (43 inches) tall. The cabinet is built from rigid materials to minimize resonance. The front baffle is slightly angled for time alignment between the drivers, which helps stereo imaging when the speakers are placed correctly.

One of the most striking visual elements is the exposed driver array, which includes a large bass reflex port at the base and a transparent protective grille that allows full visibility of the internal components. This design choice not only emphasizes the technical craftsmanship but also invites the listener to appreciate the engineering as part of the aesthetic experience.

Acoustic Engineering and Technical Specifications

The RL45 is an active speaker, so the amplification is built in and tailored to its driver configuration. That gives precise control over frequency response, phase alignment and dynamic range.

Each RL45 unit houses three drivers:

• Bass Driver: 21 cm (8.3 inch) aluminum cone woofer
• Midrange Driver: 7.6 cm (3 inch) aluminum cone midrange
• Tweeter: 2.5 cm (1 inch) textile dome tweeter

All drivers are mounted on a single vertical plane for coherent wavefront dispersion. The cones are aluminum, chosen for rigidity and low mass, which reduces distortion and improves transient response. The bass driver works in a bass reflex enclosure with a downward-firing port, which helps low-frequency extension and efficiency.

An internal amplifier rated at 150 watts RMS powers the system, feeding the drivers through an active crossover network. A passive speaker relies on an external amplifier and passive crossovers, which can degrade signal quality. In the RL45, each driver gets its own filtered and amplified signal. The result is tighter bass, clearer mids and more detailed highs.

Frequency response runs from 35 Hz to 22 kHz (+/- 3 dB). In most listening rooms that means deep bass without a separate subwoofer. Sensitivity is rated at 89 dB (2.83V/1m), which is efficient for an active floor-standing model and allows high sound pressure levels with minimal distortion.

Impedance is a nominal 8 ohms. The speaker works independently thanks to its integrated amplification, so it needs only a line-level input signal and a power outlet.

Connectivity and Operation

There is a single stereo line input on the rear panel. It accepts analog signals from preamplifiers, CD players or other line sources. There are no digital inputs, since the speaker predates widespread digital audio in consumer systems. The volume control and power switch sit on the top panel.

A stereo setup takes two RL45 units, one per channel. Each speaker operates independently, so placement matters for a balanced soundstage. B&O recommended placing the speakers at least 2.5 meters apart, forming an equilateral triangle with the main listening position.

Market Position and Legacy

At release, the BeoLab RL45 was a premium product, and its price reflected the engineering and luxury materials. B&O marketed it to audiophiles and also to architects and interior designers. The RL45 was often shown in high-end showrooms and design exhibitions.

Production numbers were limited, typical of Bang & Olufsen's high-margin, low-volume strategy. The RL45 has a cult following among vintage audio enthusiasts. Well-maintained units are sought after for their design and sound. The internal electronics are old, though, and many surviving units need servicing, particularly capacitor replacement and amplifier recalibration.

Restoration and Modern Use

Restoring a BeoLab RL45 takes specialized knowledge. The internal amplifiers and crossover circuits are proprietary and no longer supported by official service channels. Audio technicians and B&O enthusiast communities have documented repair procedures, so restoration is feasible.

Modern owners often pair the RL45 with high-quality DACs and streaming preamplifiers. The speaker has no Bluetooth or digital inputs, which some see as limiting. Purists like the analog-only approach for its signal purity and minimal processing.

The RL45 has a balanced, natural tonality with a slight warmth in the midrange, characteristic of B&O's house sound during the 1980s. Bass is tight and controlled, though not as deep as modern subwoofers. That suits classical, jazz and vocal recordings. Imaging is precise, with a wide and deep soundstage.

Conclusion

The Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RL45 stands as a testament to the synergy between form and function in high-end audio. More than just a speaker, it is a piece of industrial art that continues to inspire admiration decades after its release. Its combination of active electronics, precision drivers, and timeless design places it among the most significant loudspeakers of the late 20th century.

For collectors, designers, and audiophiles alike, the RL45 represents a rare convergence of luxury, innovation, and sonic integrity. While categorized simply as a speaker, its legacy transcends categories—occupying a unique space where music, architecture, and engineering meet.

Similar items on eBay

No exact Bang & Olufsen BeoLab RL45 listings are live right now — these searches show current Bang & Olufsen and similar vintage audio gear on eBay:

As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.

Related Models

• Bang & Olufsen 1702 (1976)
• Bang & Olufsen Beolab 6000
• Bang & Olufsen Beolab 7.4
• Bang & Olufsen BeoLufsen Penta Mk3 (1983)
• Bang & Olufsen Beosound 1
• Braun AUDIO-1 (1965)
• Braun AUDIO-250 (1965)
• Magnavox Component Systems (1972)
• Acoustic Research AR (1967-1976)
• Acoustic Research 11