Beovision 9 – A state-of-the-art audio-video unit.
BeoVision 9’s digital sound processor is designed to drive the sound in up to 7.1 channels (the predominant format is still 5.1). You can connect up to 10 BeoLab speakers!
The “space ship” like form factor is driven by the Acoustic Lens Technology (ALT) that delivers a unique 180 degrees horizontal dispersion that maintain a constant tonal balance in all locations, both from direct and reflected sound. Another exclusive feature is the Adaptative Bass Control (ABC): at the press of a button the speaker measure the acoustic properties of the room and adapts its performance accordingly.
The BeoVision 9 is a complete home entertainment solution with a 50 inch HD plasma TV, a powerful center speaker (with ALT) and a built-in BeoMedia. It can be connected to other manufacturers set-top boxes, and has an integrated access to net radio, digital music, photos and the web. In addition, this intelligent device automatically adjusts the brightness and contrast to the ambient light using a dedicated sensor. You can navigate the TV guide, the music and photo files, control the sound volume, orient the display around its axis, all this from the Beo 4 remote control.
David Lewis, the designer, thinks that a TV is not an appealing object, so he succeeds in transforming it in a beautiful piece of furniture.
BeoVision 4 offers greater flexibility and modular convenience to Bang & Olufsen customers than has previously been possible. BeoVision 4 is available in different sizes and consists of the screen, BeoSystem 2 and a cabinet. BeoSystem 2 is the master unit having the same functionality as BeoVision 5.
The recommended centre channel loudspeakers are BeoLab 4000. This plasma TV set has been previously only available in the North American market including Canada, Mexico and the US. When combined with speakers and stands, BeoVision 4 becomes an integral part of BeoSystem 1. However, from Spring 2004 the system – known as Beosystem 2 – arrived in Europe.
This European system incorporates different-sized screens and may be mounted on a wall. Available in 50″ and 65″ screen sizes (37″ and 42″ screen sizes available only to March 2006) The screen surround is of brushed aluminium and is based upon much the same design as BeoVision 5. VisionClear and an anti-reflection coating is included. Controlled by Beo4, the system comprises:
Cabinet 2168 is similar to cabinet type 2164 and has a shiny, aluminium-coloured front. Within it can be placed a satellite decoder, DVD 1 and/or Beocord V8000, if these are your required options.
Part:
Part Number:
BeoVision 4-37 silver – 1816608
BeoVision 4-37 black – 1816609
BeoVision 4-37 dark grey – 1816610
BeoVision 4 42 silver including wall bracket – 1816049
BeoVision 4 42 dark grey including wall bracket – 1816578
BeoVision 4 42 black including wall bracket – 1816577
BeoVision 4 50 black including wall bracket – 1816591
BeoVision 4 50 dark grey including wall bracket – 1816592
BeoVision 4 50 silver including wall bracket – 1816415
BeoSystem 2 – 1816403
Cabinet 2168 – 1216813
Cabinet BV4 – 1216813
BeoVision 4 65 silver – 1816632
BeoVision 4 65 black – 1816633
BeoVision 4 65 dark grey – 1816634
BeoSystem 2 (BV4 65) – 1816403
BeoVision 4 65 Wall Brackets – 1405866
Remote Control for BV4 stand alone – 8053460
BeoVision 4 Wall Bracket and Table Stands
A new wall bracket and table stand for the BeoVision 4 range will be available from December 2004. The new wall bracket is finished in black lacquered steel and with its reduced dimensions is suitable for use with the 37”, 42” and 50” screen options.
The table stands will be available in two options: one for BeoVision 4-37 and the other for either BeoVision 4-42 or BeoVision 4-50. The Table Stands will be finished in black, painted aluminium.
The only accessory for BV4-65 is the wall bracket. Introduced on BV4-65 will be a slightly darker Contrast Screen resulting in an improved perceived picture quality due to the lower black level.
Wall Bracket & Table Stand Part Numbers:
BV4 Wall Bracket 1407866
Table Stand BV4-37 1408566
Table Stand BV4-42/50 1407966
BeoVision 4 – 42 Newsletter April 2004
In view of the general expansion of flat screens in the market, Bang & Olufsen is now strengthening its flat screen portfolio by launching BeoVision 4 – 42. BeoVision 4 – 42 is a modular flat screen home-cinema system master consisting of:
A 107cm plasma monitor for wall mounting (wall bracket included)
BeoSystem 2 – a master unit offering the customer a genuine Bang & Olufsen system master
an elegantly designed cabinet for placement of BeoSystem 2 and a separate box solution, e.g. DVD 1.
In line with our vision of constantly questioning the ordinary in search of surprising and long-lasting experiences, it is crucial for Bang & Olufsen to stand out. The mere offering of a plasma solution with a separate master unit is far from unique in the market today. Still, we put great value in differentiating Bang & Olufsen products from our competitors.
BeoVision 4 – 42 is differentiated by:
A true Bang & Olufsen visual expression and craftsmanship to the last detail with the aluminium frame on the monitor, the design of the cabinet and the possible combination with BeoLab loudspeakers, BeoVision 4 – 42 has a true Bang & Olufsen visual expression. This is characterised by an elegant design, an exquisite choice of materials and craftsmanship to the last detail.
The aluminium frame is mounted on a handmade mainframe made of steel. There are no visible screws or welding notches – even the screws are handmade in order to ensure a smooth surface and not disturb the visual expression. By means of our special surface treatment competences, we have achieved a beautiful yet robust surface of the aluminium on the frame and the cabinet.
BeoVision 4 – 42: a system master that offers freedom of application.
The BeoVision 4 – 42 solution offers not only sublime experiences in a home-cinema setup. It also is fully compatible with the Beolink® system and can work as a system master that distributes sound and/or picture to up to 16 rooms. BeoVision 4 – 42 is a modular system, it has a built-in Dolby® Digital/DTS® module, and it can be integrated with the entire BeoLab loudspeaker range, as well as with Bang & Olufsen audio and video products. There is only one cable between the monitor and the master unit which increases the placement flexibility. All this maximises the freedom of application – only your imagination sets the limits for a true Bang & Olufsen experience.
Easy operation – One remote
Despite the possibility of integrating BeoVision 4 – 42 with many products and features, the operation is well-known and simple – based on one remote: Beo4. This is ensured via the IR-eye which is connected to BeoSystem 2. The built-in Set-top Box Controller is an example of the simplified operation principle of Bang & Olufsen; digital television can be received from a separate satellite box, but still operated with Beo4.
VisionClear – improved picture technologies
VisionClear is a concept developed by Bang & Olufsen that focuses on picture improvement technologies. Among the technologies is the peaking technology, which sharpens the picture by making a simulated contour around objects so that every detail stands out. There is a tendency in the market to overdo the peaking – so that the picture becomes unnaturally sharp. Bang & Olufsen focuses on creating a natural sharpness in the picture – therefore the picture is only peaked to a certain limit. The natural picture is moreover helped by noise reduction. As the peaking technology also makes noise more visible, a noise reduction circuit is incorporated in BeoVision 4 – 42 to compensate for the increased noise. This way BeoVision 4 – 42 offers sharp yet noiseless pictures.
Viewing Comfort – improved viewing experience
The Viewing Comfort concept focuses on the interface between the screen and the user, and between the screen and the room. It has been developed to improve the subjective viewing experience of the user. Viewing Comfort elements in BeoVision 4 – 42 include the anti-reflection coated contrast screen, which reduces reflections of incoming light and improves the black level. The black level of BeoVision 4 – 42 is better than what is generally seen in the market for plasma – meaning that what looks black is more black, rather than grey.
The result is deeper and richer colours. Other Viewing Comfort elements in BeoVision 4 – 42 are electronic curtains and automatic picture format optimisation. (Due to the separation of monitor and master in BeoVision 4 – 42, the Automatic Picture Control feature known from BeoVision 5 and other BeoVision products is not available in BeoVision 4 – 42).
The first transistor radio!
Beolit AM-FM, the sensational Danish transistor radio. Housed in beautiful rugged weather-resistant cabinet of impact-proof leather grained polystyrene. Available in the following elegant colours: red, green, buff, light grey, blue, dark grey and black.
The battery, protected by, a plastic case, is easily and quickly replaceable. Large B&O high quality loudspeaker assures superb tone quality. The Beolit AM-FM has jacks for external aerial, external speaker, and gramophone – the gramophone jack may be quickly and easily rewired for use as tape recorder jack.
Best, newest, and most sensitive transistors obtainable in the world market. Precision engineered ferrite aerial composed of two different ferrite materials. The Beolit AM-FM has unsurpassed dependability of operation, thanks to use of B&O printed circuit boards throughout.
The Beolit AM-FM has a built-in ‘Radicator’ (a small moving coil meter) that puts you in a position to check the condition of your battery at any time. The Radicator is also a tuning aid.
Accessories: Type 2920 Gramophone Plug. Type 2920 Loudspeaker Plug. Type 10079 Aerial Plug.
Beolit AM and Beolit FM were the first radios to be manufactured with transistors instead of tubes – the very first ‘transistor radios
The widescreen BeoCenter 6 LCD television is available in 23” and 26” versions. Both come custom-fitted to match your needs. For example, you could have built-in FM and DAB radio in the compact 6-23 in your kitchen and Surround Sound and DVB-S modules in a 6 – 26 used for watching TV in a small living room or a bedroom. Or you could mix and match. Your ‘second television room’ just became the place to be. The integration of picture and sound in the compact cabinet creates a simple and elegant plug-and-play television concept.
Gorgeous from good morning to good night
The handcrafted cabinet of the BeoCenter 6 speaks volumes about the dedication that went into its creation. The sleek lines of the BeoCenter 6 blend in anywhere in your house. Both in your kitchen, drinking your morning coffee, or in your bedroom – enjoying the late night comedy before you go to sleep. The elegant aluminium front and frame are available in a selection of dashing colours as well as discrete aluminium, black and dark grey versions. Using its special digital input, BeoCenter 6 can function as a spectacular computer monitor that would take pride of place in any room, especially if matched with the compact BeoLab 3 or BeoLab 4 loudspeakers in striking red or blue – or perhaps the golden anodised aluminium of BeoLab 4000.
Fewer boxes. More TV and radio
The new BeoCenter 6 takes intelligent integration to a new level and introduces DAB radio options together with a TV for the first time ever. When you are listening to the radio, the screen can display available programme information. Equipped with wake-up timer and timer play the BeoCenter 6 makes the perfect choice for a second room television. A selection of wall mounting brackets and stands are available for versatile placement. The motorised floor and table stands can be controlled from the Beo4 remote control, turning the TV 35° to each side. In addition, the tilt mechanism means easy adjustment of the television up and down on the vertical axis.
The definitive BeoLink screen
BeoCenter 6 can function as a stand-alone television, or as the second-room TV in a BeoLink setup. You can enjoy all sources from the main room on the BeoCenter 6, such as DVD, digital music, etc. For instance, you can watch satellite TV in your bedroom on your BeoCenter 6 – 23, even though the satellite receiver is in your living room. BeoCenter 6 can also be used as an ‘audio link master’ that lets you access the radio function from other rooms, if linked to a pair of BeoLab speakers.
True Bang & Olufsen picture and sound
The BeoCenter 6 uses the best LCD screens available, and has been further improved with Bang & Olufsen VisionClear picture technologies, which are implemented in all TV solutions from Bang & Olufsen. Whenever BeoCenter 6 is switched on, VisionClear adjusts the image automatically in relation to light conditions in the room. Within seconds, the TV automatically adjusts contrast levels, brilliance and colour to match the light conditions at any given time. BeoCenter 6 – 23 utilises a compact one-way loudspeaker system, and BeoCenter 6 – 26 a two-way system, slightly more powerful to match the larger screen size and longer viewing and listening distances. The digital surround sound module available for BeoCenter 6 – 26 provides a digital surround sound experience in any setup with BeoLab loudspeakers. The television´s loudspeakers will in this setup function as a powerful centre speaker.
The new BeoCenter 6 takes intelligent integration to a new level and introduces DAB radio options together with a television for the first time ever. One of the best LCD screens available has been further improved with Bang & Olufsen’s own VisionClear picture technologies, to ensure the best possible picture in all situations.
When BeoCenter 6 is switched on, these picture-optimising technologies adjust the image automatically in relation to light conditions in the room. Within seconds, the television automatically adjusts contrast levels, brilliance and colour to match the current light conditions – and will carry on doing so until the television is switched off again.
BeoCenter 6 can function as a stand-alone television, or as the second-room television in a BeoLink setup. In the latter case, you can enjoy all sources from the main room on the BeoCenter 6, such as DVD, digital music, etc. BeoCenter 6 can be used as an ‘audio link master’ that lets you access the radio function from other rooms, if linked to a pair of BeoLab speakers.
Four placement options help BeoCenter 6 fit in, even in the smallest of spaces. The motorised turning function on the floor and table stand is controlled from the Beo4 remote control, and turns the television 35° to each side. In addition to this, the tilt mechanism means easy control of the television 13° up and down on a vertical axis.
The widescreen and high-definition ready LCD monitor is available in 23” and 26” versions. The integration of picture and sound in the compact cabinet creates a simple and elegant plug-and-play television concept. Connections for earphones, external entertainment sources, and BeoLab loudspeakers, are combined with digital interface for computers (DVI) – making the BeoCenter 6 the perfect companion for both work and entertainment.
When the FM radio, which is standard in the 23” version and optional in the 26” version, or the DAB radio feature, which is optional in both, is switched on, available radio text information rolls across the screen. A factory fitted wake-up timer supports the radio functionality still further.
BeoCenter 6 – 23 utilises a compact one-way loudspeaker system, and BeoCenter 6 – 26 a two-way system, slightly more powerful to match the larger screen size and longer viewing and listening distances. The digital surround sound module available for BeoCenter 6 – 26 provides a digital surround sound experience in any setup with BeoLab loudspeakers. The television’s loudspeakers will in this setup function as a powerful centre speaker.
Mounting Options & Stands
The tilt table mount was available for counter top mounting, designed to allow the bass port on the underside of the TV to ‘breath’. Motorised floor and table stands were complimented by a wall mount bracket which gave manual tilt and turn.
The widescreen BeoCenter 6 LCD television is available in 23” and 26” versions. Both come custom-fitted to match your needs. For example, you could have built-in FM and DAB radio in the compact 6 – 23 in your kitchen and Surround Sound and DVB-S modules in a 6-26 used for watching TV in a small living room or a bedroom. Or you could mix and match. Your ‘second television room’ just became the place to be. The integration of picture and sound in the compact cabinet creates a simple and elegant plug-and-play television concept.
Gorgeous from good morning to good night
The handcrafted cabinet of the BeoCenter 6 speaks volumes about the dedication that went into its creation. The sleek lines of the BeoCenter 6 blend in anywhere in your house. Both in your kitchen, drinking your morning coffee, or in your bedroom – enjoying the late night comedy before you go to sleep. The elegant aluminium front and frame are available in a selection of dashing colours as well as discrete aluminium, black and dark grey versions. Using its special digital input, BeoCenter 6 can function as a spectacular computer monitor that would take pride of place in any room, especially if matched with the compact BeoLab 3 or BeoLab 4 loudspeakers in striking red or blue – or perhaps the golden anodised aluminium of BeoLab 4000.
Fewer boxes. More TV and radio
The new BeoCenter 6 takes intelligent integration to a new level and introduces DAB radio options together with a TV for the first time ever. When you are listening to the radio, the screen can display available programme information. Equipped with wake-up timer and timer play the BeoCenter 6 makes the perfect choice for a second room television. A selection of wall mounting brackets and stands are available for versatile placement. The motorised floor and table stands can be controlled from the Beo4 remote control, turning the TV 35° to each side. In addition, the tilt mechanism means easy adjustment of the television up and down on the vertical axis.
The definitive BeoLink screen
BeoCenter 6 can function as a stand-alone television, or as the second-room TV in a BeoLink setup. You can enjoy all sources from the main room on the BeoCenter 6, such as DVD, digital music, etc. For instance, you can watch satellite TV in your bedroom on your BeoCenter 6 – 23, even though the satellite receiver is in your living room. BeoCenter 6 can also be used as an ‘audio link master’ that lets you access the radio function from other rooms, if linked to a pair of BeoLab speakers.
True Bang & Olufsen picture and sound
The BeoCenter 6 uses the best LCD screens available, and has been further improved with Bang & Olufsen VisionClear picture technologies, which are implemented in all TV solutions from Bang & Olufsen. Whenever BeoCenter 6 is switched on, VisionClear adjusts the image automatically in relation to light conditions in the room. Within seconds, the TV automatically adjusts contrast levels, brilliance and colour to match the light conditions at any given time. BeoCenter 6 – 23 utilises a compact one-way loudspeaker system, and BeoCenter 6 – 26 a two-way system, slightly more powerful to match the larger screen size and longer viewing and listening distances. The digital surround sound module available for BeoCenter 6 – 26 provides a digital surround sound experience in any setup with BeoLab loudspeakers. The television´s loudspeakers will in this setup function as a powerful centre speaker.
The new BeoCenter 6 takes intelligent integration to a new level and introduces DAB radio options together with a television for the first time ever. One of the best LCD screens available has been further improved with Bang & Olufsen’s own VisionClear picture technologies, to ensure the best possible picture in all situations.
When BeoCenter 6 is switched on, these picture-optimising technologies adjust the image automatically in relation to light conditions in the room. Within seconds, the television automatically adjusts contrast levels, brilliance and colour to match the current light conditions – and will carry on doing so until the television is switched off again.
BeoCenter 6 can function as a stand-alone television, or as the second-room television in a BeoLink setup. In the latter case, you can enjoy all sources from the main room on the BeoCenter 6, such as DVD, digital music, etc. BeoCenter 6 can be used as an ‘audio link master’ that lets you access the radio function from other rooms, if linked to a pair of BeoLab speakers.
Four placement options help BeoCenter 6 fit in, even in the smallest of spaces. The motorised turning function on the floor and table stand is controlled from the Beo4 remote control, and turns the television 35° to each side. In addition to this, the tilt mechanism means easy control of the television 13° up and down on a vertical axis.
The widescreen and high-definition ready LCD monitor is available in 23” and 26” versions. The integration of picture and sound in the compact cabinet creates a simple and elegant plug-and-play television concept. Connections for earphones, external entertainment sources, and BeoLab loudspeakers, are combined with digital interface for computers (DVI) – making the BeoCenter 6 the perfect companion for both work and entertainment.
When the FM radio, which is standard in the 23” version and optional in the 26” version, or the DAB radio feature, which is optional in both, is switched on, available radio text information rolls across the screen. A factory fitted wake-up timer supports the radio functionality still further.
BeoCenter 6 – 23 utilises a compact one-way loudspeaker system, and BeoCenter 6 – 26” a two-way system, slightly more powerful to match the larger screen size and longer viewing and listening distances. The digital surround sound module available for BeoCenter 6-26 provides a digital surround sound experience in any setup with BeoLab loudspeakers. The television’s loudspeakers will in this setup function as a powerful centre speaker.
Mounting Options & Stands
The tilt table mount was available for counter top mounting, designed to allow the bass port on the underside of the TV to ‘breath’. Motorised floor and table stands were complimented by a wall mount bracket which gave manual tilt and turn.
Bang & Olufsen’s preferred supplier for brackets and stands, STBbrackets, have made a range of solutions specifically for this model including a direct replacement for the tilt table mount. Distributed throughout the World by the Bang & Olufsen store network, the STB options add to the diversity of mounting options and positions available.
“BeoVision 7 is more than just a TV; it’s a complete entertainment system specially created to offer a sound and picture experience far beyond expectations. With its 81cm LCD screen, built-in DVD player and powerful active loudspeaker system, BeoVision 7 offers all the benefits of flat-screen viewing, but with exceptional sound performance as well.”
BeoVision 7 combines both an 81cm LCD monitor with an integrated DVD Player, DSS surround sound module and a dedicated loudspeaker in BeoLab 7-1. The concept emphasises the separation of picture and sound together with a good number of placement options. With BeoLab 7-1 the very highest level of acoustic performance is delivered. BeoVision 7 has a higher display resolution than that of BeoVision 6 – 26: 1366 x 768 (WXGA) pixels against 1280 x 768 pixels of BeoVision 6.
BeoVision 7 may be used as either a stand-alone television set or as a large-screen monitor within a domestic surround-sound system. There are five different stand placement options available to the user:
Mounting Options & Stands
Original Bang & Olufsen stands available at launch included: Fixed position Table Stand, motorised Table Stand, motorised Table Stand, moveable Wall Bracket for TV and Loudspeaker (close or extended versions) and a motorised Floor Stand. A fixed Wall Bracket for BeoVision 7 32 was added to the stand portfolio after launch.
Each of the above options hold both the monitor and the BeoLab 7-1 active speaker; with the exception of the Table Stand, each has the vertical tilt feature.
BeoVision 7 offers the following as standard:
Dolby Digital/DTS Surround Sound
MasterLink Module
Set-Top Box Controller
RF Modulator
Anti-Reflex Coated Contrast Screen
DVI PC input
Part Numbers:
BeoVision 7 – 1816089
Table Stand – 1409766
Wall Bracket – Fixed – 1409511
Motorised Floor Stand – 1409111
Wall Bracket – Moveable – 1409611
Motorised Table Stand – 1409211
Packed with advanced technology, BeoLab 7 is, quite simply, the most powerful stereo speaker ever developed for TV. With six individual driver units, all powered by their own digital ICEpower amplifier, BeoLab 7 delivers an unequalled sound performance for your TV viewing. The beam-shaped loudspeaker below the screen provides superb acoustic performance and signifies the presence of sound as an integral part of your viewing experience. Musically, the speaker rivals many hi-fi systems, and is quite capable of being used as a BeoLink speaker.
The natural fit
BeoLab 7 is specially developed for BeoVision 7 to contribute the ultimate stereo sound performance to the viewing experience. BeoLab 7-1 is the natural accompaniment for the BeoVision 7-32 LCD television, while the broader beam of BeoLab 7-2 is designed for BeoVision 7-40. In addition, BeoLab 7 stereo loudspeakers fit naturally under the BeoVision 4 plasma screen, or under a projection screen. In this application, the speaker can be either wall-mounted or placed on a special tabletop stand.
Colours to match
Long and lean, BeoLab 7-1 and BeoLab 7-2 look at home under a BeoVision 7 or BeoVision 4, or as part of a projection screen setup. The shorter BeoLab 7-1 is best suited for the BeoVision 7-32” screen. The loudspeaker cabinet is made from a single piece of aluminium and coated in a resilient black soft-touch lacquer. The perforated aluminium front grill now comes anodised in five different colours: Light and dark grey, blue, red and black.
A firm grip on powerful sound
A special three-way bass reflex construction incorporates six individual units – two each for treble, mid-range and bass. Each driver is powered by a unique built-in ICEpower amplifier, delivering a combined effect of 750 watt. In addition, BeoLab 7-1 and 7-2 are equipped with thermal protection circuits and Adaptive Bass Linearisation (ABL), which ensures maximum performance without distortion, even at very high volume. Bang & Olufsen has a quarter of a century of experience making loudspeaker cabinets from extruded aluminium. This technique allows for very rigid and compact enclosures with powerful sound performance.
Note that BeoLab 7-1 was designed to be used with the BV4-37 and BV4-42. The wider BeoLab 7-2 may be used with the larger-version BeoVision 4: BV4-50 and BV4-65.
Mounting Options
All four versions of BeoLab 7 were designed for incorporation with Bang & Olufsen’s motor stand options.
BeoLab 7-4 brings extra authenticity to any film or TV experience. Using the same acoustic lens technology found in BeoLab 5, this compact but powerful speaker is optimised specifically to reproduce the sound of voices. This is essential in a surround sound set-up, as eighty per cent of the voice information goes through the centre channel. Next time you watch a movie, you won’t miss a whisper.
Surround sound centrepiece
In a surround sound setup, BeoLab 7-4 is designed to give a powerful performance in the important centre channel. It can be used with all BeoLab loudspeakers and the BeoLab 2 subwoofer for the ultimate surround sound experience with the BeoVision 7-40 LCD or BeoVision 4 plasma televisions, or a projection screen. Moving with the motorised floor stand of your BeoVision 7, BeoLab 7-4 adds an extra dimension of sound to whatever you are watching on TV.
BeoLab 7-4 has a vertical construction that provides the best possible tonal balance found in speech. The deepest bass sounds are filtered out, ensuring greater power output and enabling BeoLab 7-4 to play up to the extreme capabilities of the BeoLab 5 loudspeaker. The acoustic lens, centred just beneath the screen as a visual emphasis of refinement, ensures an experience of tonal clarity in the horizontal plane. The sound of voices becomes extremely authentic, regardless of where you are seated.
Consistent lines and harmonious colours
The cabinet is coated in a durable yet silky black lacquer surface. Facing you is a front grill made out of anodised aluminium with a perforated pattern available in five different colours, giving a graphic touch to the overall look. As with all Bang & Olufsen products, there is always a consistency in the design lines, so you will quickly see a coherence between the curved DVD loader on BeoVision 7 and the curved front of BeoLab 7-4.
Mounting Options
All four versions of BeoLab 7 were designed for incorporation with Bang & Olufsen’s motor stand options.
As easy on the eye as they are on the ear, BeoLab 8000 loudspeakers defy conventional thinking in delivering the maximum sound from the minimum of space.
There’s not much point in thinking about BeoLab 8000 in terms of watts, woofers or tweeters. There has never been loudspeakers that look like this – or so clear and rich a sound produced from such slender cabinets. BeoLab 8000 represents both the engineering skills as well as the design capabilities from Bang & Olufsen. Nobody has ever built a speaker with such little net volume, only 5,3 litres, with such an impressive sound.
As with all modern B&O speakers, the 8000s are active, meaning that each element has its own amplifier. In fact, each speaker holds two amplifier units. The biggest advantage in separating the amplifiers is that it enables the loudspeakers the ability to obtain maximum sound pressure from each element without distortion. The 8000s use the same reflective finish as the BeoLab Penta allowing them to blend well into their surroundings. By 2001 BeoLab 8000 became the most popular active speaker to date.
” When it comes to sound reproduction we believe there’s only one relevant parameter: How close can we come to the originally recorded sound. We feel an obligation not to disturb the intentions of the artist by adding unnatural elements to the acoustic image. Therefore all Bang & Olufsen loudspeakers share the same goal. They differ in size and shape and in terms of sound pressure level. But they are all developed to reproduce the natural, unaltered sound as closely as possible ” – Bang & Olufsen catalogue 2001 – 2002
There’s no great secret to creating good speakers – but they do (normally) have to be big. When it comes to speakers, one of the driving forces behind Bang & Olufsen’s product development is combining the most modern of technology with good aesthetics. The result is that the company avoids filling people’s houses with speakers the size of phone boxes; instead replacing them with elegant pillars or beautifully-designed wall-mounted units. Formed from a single piece of aluminium that eliminates the distortion problems of traditional speakers, BeoLab 8000 is mounted on a solid, cast iron base and will create the perfect effect wherever you choose to place it.
Placing the amplifiers directly into BeoLab 8000 not only improves its overall sound performance, it also makes it possible to reduce its size by up to a third. This active loudspeaker technology gives B&O the freedom to combine the purest of sounds with the simplest of shapes. A slim 132cm tall and just 10cm in diameter the graceful column of BeoLab 8000 will never dictate any furniture arrangements.
Why build amplifiers into the loudspeakers instead of keeping them separate?
Because you can reduce the size of the cabinet volume to one-third of the size of a conventional loudspeaker with the same sound capacity. The principle is called Active Loudspeakers, and what you get is a compact loudspeaker that can play at high volume without distortion or damage to its drive units.
Furthermore, when amplifier, treble and bass units are paired for the same task, they can be tailored to compensate for each other’s shortcomings. What you hear is music that sounds exactly like the instrument it originally came from (See active speakers).
Deep bass: how to make deep bass with a shallow cabinet
All loudspeakers, regardless of brand, size or construction, make sound by converting electric energy into acoustic energy. They push air in waves, which is what our ears pick up. To get high sound pressure, you need to move a lot of air.
You can use a very large diameter loudspeaker membrane, which moves a very short distance. Or (as Bang & Olufsen prefer), you can make the membrane “deeper”, in other words, make it move a greater distance with a smaller diameter. Imagine two balloons, one round and shaped like a ball, the other long and tubular. Both contain the same amount of air; it’s simply their shapes that are different. A side benefit to the deeper membrane is that it allows a smaller cabinet, with greater freedom as far as form and function are concerned. Since no two loudspeaker units have exactly the same physical characteristics, Bang & Olufsen calibrate them individually to make certain that the sound of each and every loudspeaker leaving our factory is identical.
By employing an active electronic crossover network with equalization, we’re able to adjust frequencies before they’re amplified. The signal from the sound source is shaped before distribution to the separate power amplifiers for bass and treble. In this way, the performance of the various components is “fine-tuned”, until they produce an ideal, harmonised output, which will be the same, no matter which BeoLab loudspeaker you feast your eyes upon.
The custom made driver units of a BeoLab loudspeaker feature extra-heavy membranes with longer movement, which help produce a deeper bass.
Adaptive Bass Linearisation
Adaptive Bass Linearisation (ABL) is a process patented by B&O and is incorporated in BeoLab loudspeakers. The idea is to use the surplus capacity in amplifiers and driver units, arising by normal listening levels, for a bass extension – a sound reproduction with more bass, than the loudspeaker otherwise would be able to produce.
The function is adaptive. This means that the loudspeaker adapts to the signal it receives. Loudspeaker drivers are therefore fully exploited, without suffering mechanical or electronic abuse, and the built in amplifiers are not subjected to signals would otherwise create an overload situation.
ABL gives stunning bass reproduction considering the size of the loudspeaker in which it is incorporated, under normal listening levels.
BeoLab 8000: active loudspeaker, 2 power amplifier modules, adaptive bass linearisation, aluminium cabinet and solid iron (11kg) base.
News: From January 2003, BeoLab 8000 was obtainable with new driver units giving extra bass at low levels. While not delivering as much as a BeoLab 2 (dedicated sub-woofer) the bass drivers with the newer BeoLab 8000 have a marked improvement over their predecessors. The upgrade involved new frequency equalization and improved ABL system. These improvements are mostly apparent at high volume levels. The changes are implemented form serial 16992475 onwards.
An update to the cheapest of the column speakers, this saw the Class AB amplification discarded along with the large heat sinks. Instead 2 cool running ICE amplifiers were fitted, both rated at 125W.
The LED was repositioned and the finish of the foot changed to match the TV range. A three position switch for wall, corner and free position settings was now fitted and the previous model’s phono plug was deleted. 2 Powerlink sockets were still present though.
