Technics SB-440 (1974–1981)
A passive bookshelf speaker system with a 3-way bass reflex design, produced in Japan during the mid-1970s to late 1970s.
Overview
The Technics SB-440 is a passive loudspeaker system designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction. Manufactured by Technics, a brand of Matsushita/Panasonic, it was produced from 1974 to 1981 (some sources: 1974–1980). This bookshelf-type speaker uses a 3-way configuration with three separate drivers and features a bass reflex enclosure for extended low-frequency response. It was sold in wood finish and made in Japan.
Specifications
| Type | 3-Way, 3-Speaker, Bass reflex system, Bookshelf Type |
| Frequency Response | 35 - 20,000 Hz (some sources: 40 Hz - 20 kHz) |
| Impedance | 8 Ohm |
| Max Input | 40W (some sources: 50W) |
| Output Sound Pressure Level | 93dB/W/m |
| External Dimensions | Width 358 x Height 595 x Depth 309 mm |
| Weight | 17 kg (some sources: 17.4 kg) |
| Enclosure | Bass Reflex |
| Crossover Frequency | 1500 / 7000 Hz |
| Level Control | For middle and high range |
| Units Used | Low band: 25 cm cone type; Middle range: Horn type; High pass: 6.5 cm cone type |
| Made in | Japan |
| Color | Wood |
Design
The SB-440 uses a 3-way speaker system with a multi-seller horn for midrange reproduction. The low-frequency driver is a 25 cm cone type woofer with an EVA edge and long travel voice coil for improved linearity at high input levels, and it includes a perforated metal grille that acts as both protection and high-frequency damping. The midrange section uses an aluminum die-cast multi-seller horn, while the high-frequency section uses a 6.5 cm cone-type tweeter.
Market
A listing on HifiShark in April 2020 showed a system including the SB-440 with an asking price of NZ$1,600 in New Zealand. Used pairs have appeared on Reverb and eBay, including a listing from a seller in Tokyo, Japan.
eBay Listings
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