Sony ss-505av (1986)
A compact, magnetically shielded bookshelf speaker system designed for AV use with solid build and balanced midrange-focused sound.
Overview
The Sony SS-505AV is a 2-way bookshelf speaker system released in 1986 as part of Sony's "AV" series, positioned as a budget-friendly option for home audio and video setups. Designed with magnetic shielding, it was suitable for placement near CRT televisions without causing interference. The system uses a 12 cm cone woofer and a 2.5 cm soft dome tweeter in a bass-reflex cabinet constructed from MDF, with detachable grilles and gold-plated binding posts.
Specifications
| Product type | 2-way bookshelf speaker system, anti-magnetic type |
| Driver complement | 2-way, 2-speaker system |
| Woofer size | 12 cm cone type |
| Tweeter type | 2.5 cm soft dome type |
| Frequency response | 50 Hz to 20000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 90dB/W/m |
| Maximum instantaneous input level | 150W |
| Rated input level / Power handling | 50W |
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Crossover frequency | 3kHz |
| Cabinet type | Bass-reflex |
| External dimensions | Width 255 x Height 150 x Depth 225 mm |
| Weight | 4.3kg |
| Cabinet material | MDF |
| Grille | Detachable |
| Binding posts | Gold-plated |
Design
The SS-505AV features a magnetic-resistant 2-way design intended for AV applications. The low-frequency driver is a 12 cm cone woofer paired with a Dynaport horn to enhance bass reproduction. The high-frequency driver is a 2.5 cm soft dome tweeter angled at 60° to optimize sound dispersion. The cabinet is made from MDF and includes gold-plated binding posts for reliable connections.
Context
Part of Sony's "AV" speaker series, the SS-505AV was positioned as a budget-friendly model, offering solid construction and balanced sound for its class. It was intended for use in small rooms or as surround speakers in a home theater setup.
Market
The SS-505AV typically sells for $50–$100 per pair on the used market. Common issues include deteriorated foam surrounds on the woofer due to age, which may require replacement. The general assessment is that it delivers decent sound for the price, with a balanced character and slight midrange emphasis, smooth treble, and limited deep bass performance.
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