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

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 is a big speaker from an era when high-end audio meant going all-in on size, complexity and presence. Infinity introduced it in 1984 as part of the elite "Reference Standard" series. It is a floorstanding colossus, built to disappear sonically while dominating visually. It combines analog warmth with ribbon technology, and it still turns heads in vintage circles.

The RS II-B sits between engineering precision and musical indulgence. It doesn't aim for clinical neutrality. It has a lush, expansive soundstage and a bass response that feels more felt than heard. It needs its required companion gear to be set up properly. Plenty of them sit in the listening rooms of retired audiophiles, some of whom call the room "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

The drivers are exotic: three EMIM ribbon midrange drivers and three EMIT ribbon tweeters per channel. Unlike conventional dome tweeters, the EMIT (Electro-Magnetic Induction Tweeter) uses a thin, lightweight ribbon suspended in a magnetic field. That allows ultra-fast transient response and minimal distortion. Two of the tweeters fire forward and one is mounted rearward, likely to enhance spatial dispersion and create a more immersive soundfield. The top end extends to 32 kHz, well beyond human hearing.

The midrange is handled by the EMIM (Electro-Magnetic Induction Midrange) units, which use the same ribbon principle. That gives a coherence between mids and highs that few speakers of the era could match.

Deep, Controlled Bass with a Critical Caveat

Under all that ribbon work sit two 10-inch polypropylene woofers per channel, anchoring the sound down to 29 Hz. That was serious low-end extension for the mid-80s, especially in a non-powered design. Here's the catch: the RS II-B requires the original Infinity Low Frequency Equalizer to reach its rated flat response. Without it, the bass is unbalanced and lacks authority. The equalizer is a core part of the system, not an optional accessory. 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

The rear panel has level controls that let users fine-tune frequency ranges. That was a luxury in 1984. No speaker sounds right in every room, and these controls let the RS II-B be dialed in to compensate for room modes or personal preference.

Handcrafted Presence

These speakers don't hide in a corner. They stand nearly four feet tall and are clad in hand-rubbed oak veneers and solid wood trim. The finish ages gracefully and develops a warm patina over time. They weigh 100 pounds each, and that mass 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 ribbon technology, full-range capability, and the "big, warm sound" of 1980s high-end audio. Condition is everything. The most commonly missing piece is the required Low Frequency Equalizer. A complete system with speakers, EQ unit, and original cables is rare and significantly impacts value.

Exact current market prices aren't confirmed in the fact sheet. Listings emphasize condition, completeness, and working order. Fully functional pairs with all components intact command strong interest. They aren't "plug and play" by modern standards.

Owners note that the RS II-B may not be the most accurate speaker ever made, but its musicality and ability to engage the listener keep it celebrated. The McIntosh MC-275 is cited as a great match, delivering ample volume and power. The recommended range is 60-250 watts, and the 4-ohm load demands a capable amp, especially when the bass EQ is active.

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