Kenwood LS-1900 (1979–1982)
A rare 3-way bass-reflex speaker system from Kenwood’s late-era high-end lineup, notable for its advanced driver materials and unique rotating enclosure design.
Overview
The Kenwood LS-1900 is a 3-way bass-reflex speaker system produced from 1979 to 1982. It stands out in Kenwood’s audio lineup of the era for its sophisticated engineering and rare market presence. Designed with a focus on linear frequency response across all volume levels, the LS-1900 features a unique cabinet structure composed of two separate enclosures, with the upper section capable of rotating on the driver magnet axis for optimized sound staging.
Specifications
| Nominal impedance | 8 Ohm |
| System | 3-way bass-reflex |
| Drivers | 33 cm cone (bass), 13 cm cone (mids), pressure chamber + horn radiator (highs) |
| Max. power handling | 170W DIN |
| DIN power handling | 115W |
| Frequency response | 30 Hz - 21 kHz (DIN) |
| SPL | 92 dB /1w /1m |
| Crossover frequencies | 600 Hz, 5 kHz |
| Pots | ± 5 dB for the mid and high drivers |
| Cabinet material | chipboard with walnut veneer |
| Dimensions | 56 x 105 x 45 cm (H x W x D) |
| Weight | 58 kg |
Design
The LS-1900 was engineered to achieve linear response regardless of output level. Its drivers use a composite material of cellulose, mineral, and metal fibers, formed using heat and pressure, with stiffening coatings applied to enhance piston-like motion. Development leveraged CAT and laser-holography analysis to refine cone behavior. The cabinet integrates two separate enclosures, with the upper unit rotatable on the magnet axis of the drivers to allow precise directional tuning.
Context
The LS-1900 is considered a rare model, reflecting the fragmented and market-specific nature of Kenwood’s product strategy during the early 1980s. It existed within a lineup that mixed export-only and Japan-only models, making consistent global distribution unlikely. While not part of a clearly defined series, it shares the high-end space with iconic Kenwood components like the LS-1500, KR-9600 receiver, and KA-9100 amplifier.
Collectibility
The Kenwood LS-1900 is recognized as a very rare item among vintage audio collectors, with limited documentation and few known surviving units.
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