Sony SS-9300 (c. 1970s)
A barrel-shaped, omnidirectional speaker system designed for full-room sound dispersion.
Overview
The Sony SS-9300 is a floor-standing speaker system from the mid-1970s, recognized by its distinctive barrel-shaped cabinet and omnidirectional sound output. It features five 10 cm full-range cone drivers mounted radially to project sound in all directions, creating a diffuse listening experience. The cabinet’s spherical construction is designed to minimize resonance and improve acoustic performance. Available in walnut and tamo finishes with an open-pore texture, the system includes a dedicated cushion, allowing it to double as seating. It was positioned slightly smaller than the SS-9500 within Sony’s speaker lineup.
Specifications
| Type | 1-way, 5-speaker floor type |
| Drivers | 5 x 10 cm cone type (full-range) |
| Frequency characteristic | 50 Hz to 18 kHz |
| Output sound pressure level | 88dB/W |
| Impedance | 6 Ω |
| Maximum allowable input | 50W (conflicting reports exist) |
| Finish | Walnut or tamo, open pore |
| Attachment | Dedicated Cushion |
| Original price | ¥27,000 (unit, c. mid-1970s) |
Design
The SS-9300 uses a barrel-shaped (樽型) enclosure with spherical material processing to enhance mechanical strength and reduce unwanted resonance. The five full-range drivers are mounted radially, emitting sound omnidirectionally for non-directional dispersion. The design allows the unit to function as a seat when used with its dedicated cushion.
Market
The SS-9300 is described as rare, with recent listings showing pairs priced at 25,800 yen. One current listing shows a single unit priced at 5,860 JPY (tax included).
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