Sony apm-910av (1980s)
Three-way bookshelf speaker with planar magnetic drivers and anti-magnetic design, made in Japan for AV compatibility.
Overview
The Sony APM-910AV is a bookshelf-type, three-way bass reflex speaker system manufactured in Japan during the 1980s. It uses planar magnetic (APM) drivers and features an anti-magnetic design, allowing safe placement near televisions. This model is part of Sony's APM speaker line and sits as a lower-to-mid-tier offering, though it delivers a full frequency range and efficient performance. It has a rounded baffle and flat surface cabinet finished in black vinyl.
Specifications
| System type | Three-way bass reflex system |
| Driver configuration | 3-way |
| Low band unit | 196 cm² planar type |
| Mid range unit | 36 cm² planar type |
| High-pass unit | 5.8 cm² planar type |
| Tweeter type | Flat-piston driver |
| Woofer frame material | Stamped steel |
| Woofer construction | Honeycomb panel driven by an aluminum cone |
| Surround material | Cloth |
| Frequency response | 40Hz–30kHz |
| Sensitivity | 90dB/W/m |
| Impedance | 6 Ω |
| Rated input level | 85W |
| Maximum instantaneous input level | 170W |
| Dimensions | 290 mm (W) × 515 mm (H) × 285 mm (D) |
| Weight | 13 kg |
| Cabinet finish | Black vinyl |
Design
The APM-910AV uses square planar magnetic drivers and an acoustic lens enclosure to achieve natural sound dispersion. It features a rounded baffle design and a flat surface (baffle) type cabinet. The drivers are anti-magnetic, supporting AV use, and the woofer employs a honeycomb panel driven by an aluminum cone with a cloth surround.
Context
The APM-910AV is a later-generation model in Sony’s APM speaker line and is positioned as a lower-to-mid-tier option. It is often compared to contemporary models like the Technics SB-4000 and delivers sound quality close to the higher-end APM-22ES, though with less rugged construction.
Market
Originally priced at ¥31,000 per unit in 1986, the APM-910AV now sells in Japan typically between ¥2,000 and ¥5,500 used, with values reaching over ¥25,000 for well-maintained units. Foam and cloth surrounds commonly degrade over time, and square surrounds are not commercially available, leading to DIY repairs using materials like chamois leather. Spare drivers occasionally appear on auction sites, and units are frequently sold for parts due to surround deterioration.
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