Celestion SL700 SE (Introduced 1989)
The SL700 SE was introduced in 1989 as an upgraded version of the original Celestion SL700. SE stands for Special Edition. It's remembered as a high-end studio monitor with a revealing sound. The upgrade brought refined components, improved cabinet construction, and a more neutral sonic signature. The most distinctive technical element in the record is a unique ribbon tweeter.
Stereophile’s Sam Tellig wrote about the SL700SE in April 1992 (Vol.15 No.4), reporting that a colleague had raved about its imaging, calling it almost comparable to Wilson WATTs. That kind of praise captures the speaker’s reputation: transparent, dynamic, and full of detail. One Naim Audio Community member fondly recalled a pair at Penta Heathrow driven by a Krell KSA amp, describing them as amazing in exactly those terms.
Hard numbers are thin on this model. No frequency response, impedance, sensitivity, dimensions, or weight appear in the documented record. What is known is that the SL700SE is a sought-after vintage monitor, especially among analog enthusiasts, mastering engineers, and collectors of British hi-fi gear. Well-maintained pairs in good condition typically sell in the $800-$1,500 USD range. One Swedish listing from July 2026 offered a pair as a restoration project at SEK 3,500, and a dealer listing noted that matching stands were included. A mention of "coating flaking off" surfaces in related searches. The speakers are now over thirty years old, so many units likely show their age.
- Introduced 1989
- Special Edition — upgraded version of the original SL700
- Unique ribbon tweeter
- Refined components and improved cabinet construction
Similar items on eBay
No exact Celestion SL700 SE listings are live right now — these searches show current Celestion and similar vintage audio gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.