Infinity Reference Standard RS II-B (1984–1987)

Name: Infinity RS-IIB
Brand: Infinity

You can hear the room breathe when the bass drops—deep, textured, and alive, like the sound isn’t coming from boxes but from space itself.

Overview

The Infinity Reference Standard RS II-B isn’t just a speaker; it’s a statement from an era when high-end audio meant going all-in—on size, on complexity, on sheer presence. Introduced in 1984 as part of Infinity’s elite “Reference Standard” series, this floorstanding colossus was built to disappear sonically while dominating visually. But for those who wanted a front-row seat to the golden age of analog warmth wrapped in cutting-edge ribbon technology, the RS II-B delivered a performance that still turns heads in vintage circles.

Much-celebrated since its debut, the RS II-B straddles the line between engineering precision and musical indulgence. It doesn’t aim for clinical neutrality; instead, it draws you in with a lush, expansive soundstage and a bass response that feels more felt than heard. These aren’t speakers you listen to—they’re ones you experience, especially when properly set up with their required companion gear. They’re the kind of system you inherit from a retired audiophile who still refers to his listening room as “the sanctum.”

Specifications

Manufacturer	Infinity Systems
Model	Reference Standard RS II-B
Production Years	1984–1987
Product Type	Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Drivers (per channel)	Two 10-inch polypropylene woofers, three EMIM midrange drivers, three EMIT tweeters (one facing rearward)
Frequency Response	29 to 32,000 Hz ±2 dB
Suggested Amplifier Power	60 to 250 watts per channel RMS
Crossover Frequencies	150 Hz, 800 Hz, 4,000 Hz, 8,000 Hz
Nominal Impedance	4 ohms
Finish	Hand-rubbed oak veneers and solids
Dimensions	48 in H x 22 3/4 in W x 18 in D (121.9 cm H x 57.8 cm W x 45.7 cm D)
Shipping Weight	200 lbs (90.7 kg) per pair

Key Features

Ribbon-Driven Clarity Across Mid and High Frequencies

At the heart of the RS II-B’s sonic character are its exotic driver materials: three EMIM ribbon midrange drivers and three EMIT ribbon tweeters per channel. Unlike conventional dome tweeters, the EMIT (Electro-Magnetic Induction Tweeter) design uses a thin, lightweight ribbon suspended in a magnetic field, allowing for ultra-fast transient response and minimal distortion. Two of the tweeters fire forward, while one is mounted rearward—likely to enhance spatial dispersion and create a more immersive soundfield. The result is a top end that extends fearlessly to 32 kHz, well beyond human hearing, but with harmonic richness that makes cymbals shimmer and strings breathe.

The midrange, handled by the EMIM (Electro-Magnetic Induction Midrange) units, shares the same ribbon principle, delivering a coherence between mids and highs that few speakers of the era could match. There’s no veil, no grain—just a clear window into the recording.

Deep, Controlled Bass with a Critical Caveat

Beneath all that high-tech ribbon work sit two 10-inch polypropylene woofers per channel, tasked with anchoring the sound down to 29 Hz. That’s serious low-end extension for the mid-80s, especially in a non-powered design. But here’s the catch: the RS II-B requires the original Infinity Low Frequency Equalizer to achieve its rated flat response. Without it, the bass is unbalanced and lacks authority. This isn’t a nice-to-have accessory—it’s a core part of the system. Owners report that once the EQ is connected and properly adjusted, the bass locks in with weight, texture, and surprising agility.

Adjustable Voicing for Room and Taste

One of the more forward-thinking touches is the inclusion of level controls on the rear panel, allowing users to fine-tune frequency ranges. This was a luxury in 1984, acknowledging what many audiophiles knew but few manufacturers admitted: no speaker sounds right in every room. With these controls, the RS II-B could be dialed in to compensate for room modes or personal preference—making it not just high-fidelity, but high-flexibility.

Handcrafted Presence

These aren’t speakers you hide in the corner. Standing nearly four feet tall and clad in hand-rubbed oak veneers and solid wood trim, the RS II-B announces itself the moment you walk into the room. The craftsmanship is evident in the finish, which ages gracefully, developing a warm patina over time. They’re heavy—100 pounds each—but that mass isn’t just for show. It helps dampen cabinet resonance, keeping the sound clean even at high volumes.

Collectibility & Value

The RS II-B is a sought-after vintage model, prized for its blend of ribbon technology, full-range capability, and that elusive “big, warm sound” that defined high-end audio in the 1980s. However, condition is everything. These speakers are only as good as their weakest link, and the most commonly missing piece is the required Low Frequency Equalizer. Finding a complete system—speakers, EQ unit, and original cables—is rare and significantly impacts value.

While exact current market prices aren’t confirmed in the fact sheet, listings emphasize condition, completeness, and working order. Given their status and build quality, fully functional pairs with all components intact command strong interest. They’re not “plug and play” by modern standards, but for the right buyer—a collector, a restorer, or someone building a period-correct system—they’re a dream realized.

Owners note that while the RS II-B may not be the most accurate speaker ever made, its musicality and ability to engage the listener are what keep it celebrated. Paired with a robust amplifier—like the McIntosh MC-275, cited as a great match—it delivers ample volume and power with a synergy that feels almost organic. They’re fairly easy to drive within their recommended 60–250 watt range, but that 4-ohm load means they’ll demand a capable amp, especially when the bass EQ is active.