Tannoy BERKELEY MK II (1974)
A substantial two-way loudspeaker system with concentric driver design, introduced by Tannoy in 1974.
Overview
The Tannoy Berkeley Mk II is a large-format integrated loudspeaker system introduced in 1974 as part of Tannoy's Prestige series. It features a two-way design using a single coaxial driver assembly that combines a 15-inch woofer and a 2-inch compression driver in a concentric configuration. This layout contributes to a very smooth angular dispersion of sound, making it well-suited for critical listening environments. The system was designed for high-quality sound reproduction and came with a detailed technical manual to support setup and alignment.
Specifications
| Speakers | One 15 in. woofer mounted in a ducted port enclosure, and a two-in. concentrically mounted compression driver. |
| Frequency Response | 35-20,000 Hz. |
| Crossover | 1000 Hz. |
| Impedance | 8 ohms nominal. |
| Power Handling | 85 watts continuous program material. |
| Dimensions | 33 in. (83.8 cm) x 21 in. (53.3 cm) x 12 in. (30.5 cm). |
| Weight | 90 lbs. (40.8 kg). |
Design
The Berkeley Mk II uses a unique direct radiator bass unit and high-frequency compression driver mounted concentrically within the same frame and magnet assembly. The 15-inch low-frequency radiator and 2-inch compression driver are aligned acoustically to provide coherent wavefronts. The enclosure is ported and internally braced, finished in oiled walnut with two removable brown cloth-covered grilles. On the front baffle are two switched equalizer controls labeled Roll-off and Energy, offering four and five positions respectively for a total of 20 tuning combinations. Connection is via spring-loaded terminals located in a recessed rear cavity.
Context
The Berkeley Mk II is part of Tannoy’s Prestige series, which includes other models like the Arden and Cheviot. It represents a flagship approach to two-way speaker design, emphasizing uniform dispersion and dynamic clarity. Tannoy, known for its long-standing reputation in high-fidelity sound reproduction, engineered this system for both domestic and professional applications requiring accurate audio performance.
Reception & Use
The Berkeley Mk II delivers a strong middle and upper register, with the extreme top end slightly rolled off. It exhibits low intermodulation distortion, even at high sound levels, allowing clean reproduction of large orchestral peaks without image smear. Harmonic distortion is somewhat elevated, particularly in the lower frequencies, but subjective dynamic softening is minimal. The speaker's dispersion characteristics contribute to a consistent listening experience across wide angles.
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