Bang & Olufsen S45/2 (1976)
The Bang & Olufsen S45/2 is a compact floor-standing loudspeaker introduced in 1976. It came out in the Danish brand's 1970s audio lineup. The design leans on Scandinavian looks and acoustic integrity, and the speaker is modest in size. It sounds balanced and detailed, and vintage audio enthusiasts like it for both form and function.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | S45/2 |
| Year of Production | 1976–1982 |
| Type | 2-way bass reflex loudspeaker |
| Driver Configuration | 8-inch woofer, 1-inch soft dome tweeter |
| Crossover | Passive crossover with adjustable tweeter level |
| Impedance | 4 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 88 dB (1W/1m) |
| Power Handling | Up to 60W maximum |
| Frequency Response | Not officially documented (estimated 50Hz–20kHz) |
| Cabinet Material | Solid beech wood with removable fabric grille |
| Dimensions (H×W×D) | Approx. 65 cm × 22 cm × 28 cm (25.6" × 8.7" × 11") |
| Weight | Approx. 12 kg (26.5 lbs) per speaker |
| Finish Options | Natural beech wood veneer |
Historical Context
The S45/2 arrived while Bang & Olufsen was building its reputation for combining high-end audio engineering with modernist industrial design. It was part of a broader family of B&O audio components. It was often paired with receivers and turntables from the same period, such as the Beovox and Beocenter systems.
The compact floor-standing design reflected a shift toward space-conscious home audio without giving up acoustic performance. The cabinet uses natural beech wood and clean lines. An adjustable tweeter level control lets the user tailor the sound to the room - a forward-thinking feature for its time.
B&O marketed the speaker as a high-quality, mid-sized choice for discerning listeners who wanted both sonic accuracy and visual elegance. The company's belief was that audio equipment should be as much a part of interior decor as it is a tool for enjoying music.
Sound Signature
The S45/2 has a neutral and detailed sound profile that favors clarity and balance. The 8-inch woofer gives controlled, articulate bass for its cabinet size. The 1-inch dome tweeter gives smooth, extended highs. The midrange is transparent and well integrated, which suits vocal-centric genres, classical, and acoustic recordings.
It is a 2-way bass reflex design with a carefully tuned crossover, and it avoids the coloration common in many vintage speakers. The aim was faithful sound reproduction. The adjustable tweeter level lets the user fine-tune brightness for the room or for personal preference - a rare and valuable feature in speakers of this era.
Maintenance and Restoration Tips
Like many vintage speakers from the 1970s, the S45/2 may need maintenance to restore optimal performance:
- Foam Surround Degradation: The most common issue is deteriorated foam surrounds on the woofers, which can lead to distorted bass or complete driver failure. Replacing the foam with modern rubber or foam kits is a recommended restoration step.
- Crossover Components: Capacitors in the passive crossover network may dry out or drift in value over time. Replacing electrolytic and critical film capacitors can significantly improve clarity and reliability.
- Grille and Cabinet Care: The beech wood cabinets are durable but may show wear or discoloration. Gentle cleaning with a wood-safe polish and avoidance of direct sunlight can preserve the finish. The removable grilles may have frayed fabric; replacement or re-foaming can restore appearance.
- Binding Posts: Check the speaker terminals for corrosion or looseness. Upgrading to modern, high-quality terminals can improve connectivity and longevity.
Collectibility and Market Value
The Bang & Olufsen S45/2 holds a collectibility rating of 6/10. It is not as well known as some of B&O's later designs, but collectors respect it for its build quality, design heritage, and fit within classic B&O systems.
Going by recent market trends, a pair of S45/2 speakers in good working condition typically sells for $150 to $300. Fully restored units and those with original, well-preserved cabinets command higher prices. Speakers still in their original finish with functional drivers and clean grilles are particularly desirable.
Conclusion
The Bang & Olufsen S45/2 stands as a testament to 1970s Danish audio design—where minimalism, craftsmanship, and sonic integrity converge. While it may require some restoration after decades of use, its balanced sound, elegant appearance, and historical significance make it a worthwhile addition to any vintage audio collection. Whether used as part of a classic B&O setup or integrated into a modern system, the S45/2 continues to deliver a listening experience that is both refined and authentic.
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