Realistic Nova-6 (1976–1978)

A bookshelf speaker system from Radio Shack's Realistic brand, made in Japan and sold as a compact, attractive, efficient audio solution.

Overview

The Realistic Nova-6 is a 2-way, 2-driver bookshelf loudspeaker from Realistic, the audio brand of Radio Shack/Tandy Corporation. It was made from 1976 to 1978 as part of the Nova series and sold under catalog number 40-4019A. The ad copy called it "the ideal bookshelf system - compact, attractive, and efficient enough to put it way in front of other comparable systems." It uses an acoustic suspension (sealed) enclosure with a 200mm woofer and a cone tweeter. The cabinets are thick walnut with an oiled walnut finish. The system is rated for 8 ohms and handles up to 55 watts.

Specifications

Product type2-Way Loudspeaker System / Bookshelf Speakers
Production years1976–1978
Original price$79.95
Weight11kg
Power Range55 Watts
Impedance8 ohm
Bass driver1 x 200mm cone
Enclosure typeSealed (acoustic suspension)
FinishOiled walnut
Catalog Number40-4019A
Country of OriginJapan

Design

The Nova-6 is an acoustic suspension design with a sealed cabinet. The cone tweeter gets a 12 dB/octave crossover, and the woofer rolls off naturally. The cabinets are thick walnut, finished in oiled walnut.

Market

Nova-6 pairs turn up on eBay, with units listed around $74.95. The known problem is degraded foam surrounds on the woofers, so refoaming is often part of a restoration. Some users report modifying the crossover during maintenance.

eBay Listings

Realistic NOVA 6 vintage audio equipment - eBay listing photo 1
2 Vintage 1970s Realistic Nova 6 Speakers Radio Shack Japan
$200
Realistic NOVA 6 vintage audio equipment - eBay listing photo 2
Vintage Realistic Nova 6 Bookshelf Speakers with Lattice Gri
$159
See all Realistic NOVA 6 on eBay

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