AR-48s

The Acoustic Research AR-48s is a 3-way speaker system featuring a 10" acoustic suspension woofer, a 4" paper cone midrange, and a 1" fabric dome tweeter. This model represents an evolution of previous Acoustic Research designs, particularly the AR-2ax and AR-5, and is distinguished by a lower crossover point of 2500 Hz, attributable to its 1" tweeter. The midrange driver offers a wider bandwidth compared to older models, contributing to the AR-48s's sound qualities. Despite being constructed from vinyl-covered cabinets with plastic input posts, the internal crossover network is complex and utilizes air core inductors and non-polarized electrolytic capacitors. The crossover design incorporates interesting topologies that affect the phase relationships between drivers, suggesting a thoughtful approach to performance. The frequency response is listed as 45 Hz to 24 kHz, with a sensitivity rating of 87 dB. Overall, the AR-48s is designed for amplifiers with power outputs between 15 to 100 watts, making it suitable for various audio setups. However, due to age-related issues, individual units may require repairs or refurbishments, especially concerning driver integrity and crossover components.