Kenwood LS-1900 (1979–1982)
A rare 3-way bass-reflex speaker system from Kenwood’s late-era high-end lineup. It has advanced driver materials and a rotating enclosure.
Overview
The Kenwood LS-1900 is a 3-way bass-reflex speaker system made from 1979 to 1982. It stands out in Kenwood’s lineup of the era for its engineering and its rarity. The goal was linear frequency response at all volume levels. The cabinet is two separate enclosures, and the upper one rotates 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
Kenwood engineered the LS-1900 for linear response regardless of output level. The drivers use a composite of cellulose, mineral and metal fibers, formed with heat and pressure. Stiffening coatings go on top to improve piston-like motion. Development used CAT and laser-holography analysis to refine cone behavior. The upper enclosure rotates on the magnet axis of the drivers, which allows precise directional tuning.
Context
The LS-1900 is considered a rare model. That fits the fragmented, market-specific way Kenwood handled its products in the early 1980s. The lineup mixed export-only and Japan-only models, so consistent global distribution was unlikely. It is not part of a clearly defined series, but it shares the high-end space with the LS-1500, the KR-9600 receiver and the KA-9100 amplifier.
Collectibility
Collectors regard the Kenwood LS-1900 as very rare. Documentation is limited, and few units are known to survive.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Kenwood BASIC M1 (1987-1989)
- Kenwood CM-5ES
- Kenwood CM-7ES
- Kenwood CM-9
- Kenwood JL-6100
- Braun AUDIO-1 (1965)
- Braun AUDIO-250 (1965)
- Magnavox Component Systems (1972)
- Acoustic Research AR (1967-1976)
- Acoustic Research 11