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BeoVision 5502

BeoVision 5502

“As yet, none of us need 32 TV channels, let alone 100. But satellite re-broadcasting systems and cable TV, including regional and community networks, might soon change that” (1983 catalogue)

Therefore, Bang & Olufsen equipped all the luxury Beovision models with an advanced digital tuner that had the capacity for receiving 100 UHF channels, 32 of which could be stored in the set’s microcomputer memory for instant recall at the touch of a button.

The real boon for most viewers is that you could locate, store and recall any of these stations without leaving your armchair. All you had to do was touch a key on the Beovision Video terminal. So although B&O gave its “future-safe” luxury TV range more micro-electronics, more features and more connection possibilities than ever before, they made, at the same time, all the complex technology even more accessible – instantly. To borrow a phrase from the computer industry, Bang & Olufsen’s ’02-Series’ TVs were “user-friendly”.

Beovisions 5502, 7702, 8802 and 9002 all shared the same advanced chassis design and offered the same user-benefits. They were true “luxury” sets because many ‘extras’ offered by other companies, were given as standard by Bang & Olufsen.

The Beovision Video terminal supplied with Beovisions 5502, 7702, 8802 and 9002 offered a plethora of operational benefits. In addition there was also an advanced ‘tune and store’ function that allowed you to operate the automatic tuning system from the comfort of your chair.

One touch of the ‘tune’ button started the digital tuner scanning the wavelengths of the UHF band. When it found a station, it stopped – giving you the opportunity to either reject or accept it. If it was an unsatisfactory reception from a distant transmitter (or simply a station you don’t like!), you just pressed ‘tune’ again to continue the search. When you found a station you enjoy, on a channel giving a good, clear reception, you could instruct the set’s microcomputer to remember that transmission frequency by pressing ‘store’ followed by your own choice of pre-set programme number (e.g. for BBC2 you might designate pre-set number 2). Thereafter, whenever you wanted to watch BBC2, you simply touch button ‘2’ on your remote Terminal.

Up to 32 different TV stations could be located and stored in this way, so your Beovision really is ‘future-safe’ because it has plenty of spare capacity to accommodate new programme sources as and when they come ‘on stream’.

The latest type of Beovision Video terminal also had a button marked ‘sound’. This was only effective with Bang & Olufsen stereo TVs – Beovision 7802 and Beovision 8902.

Beovision 5502 had a 50cm screen and measured 62cm wide, 40cm high (71.5cm including stand) and 39cm deep.

Beovision 7702 had a 22″ screen. Dimensions were 67.5cm wide, 43.5cm high ( 76cm including stand) and 41.5cm deep.

Beovision 8802 had a 26″ screen and measured 77cm wide, 49cm high (80cm including stand) and 45.5cm deep.

All three models had slim cabinets finished in a choice of natural teak or rosewood. White finish was available to special order.

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BeoVision 4002

BeoVision 4002

Beovision 4002 and 4402 were colour receivers with 26″ screens. Natural colours, sharp, precise image definition and high-fidelity sound reproduction are all features you can take for granted, according to the 1970 – 80 Bang & Olufsen product catalogue. Their high reliability levels were due to modular construction techniques and low heat-generation. Beovision 4002 consumed only 110 watts – less than a black and white set of years previously.

Both sets were extremely easy to use. There were facilities for presetting up to eight stations so that subsequent programme selection was just a matter of pressing one button. This turned the set on at the same time.

Beovision 4402 had the additional convenience of a cordless (ultrasonic) remote control. The set could also be supplied equipped for Teletext reception. There was automatic synchronisation of VCR programmes on all channels.

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BeoVision 3502

BeoVision 3502

Beovision 3502 and 3802 – designed by David Lewis – were two 22″ colour TV receivers whose cabinets were of a moulded synthetic material. They were elegant and practical, according to B&O’s catalogue of 1979 – 80; the material was shock- and shatter-proof and fire-retardant. Dirty marks could be wiped off easily with a damp cloth.

Operation was easy and problem-free via the large, logically designed operation panels. Additionally in the 3802 model, all functions could be operated from a distance via the remote control module. Both receivers could accommodate a VCR without further technical adjustment. Beovision 3802 could also be equipped for Teletext reception. Automatic cut-off circuitry ensured the correct balance between colours without the need for regular adjustment by an engineer. High-bright picture tubes allowed for satisfactory viewing in daylight conditions. Modular chassis and low power consumption (and therefore less heat) ensured greater reliability.

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BeoVision 3802

BeoVision 3802

Beovision 3502 and 3802 – designed by David Lewis – were two 22″ colour TV receivers whose cabinets were of a moulded synthetic material. They were elegant and practical, according to B&O’s catalogue of 1979 – 80; the material was shock- and shatter-proof and fire-retardant. Dirty marks could be wiped off easily with a damp cloth.

Operation was easy and problem-free via the large, logically designed operation panels. Additionally in the 3802 model, all functions could be operated from a distance via the remote control module. Both receivers could accommodate a VCR without further technical adjustment. Beovision 3802 could also be equipped for Teletext reception. Automatic cut-off circuitry ensured the correct balance between colours without the need for regular adjustment by an engineer. High-bright picture tubes allowed for satisfactory viewing in daylight conditions. Modular chassis and low power consumption (and therefore less heat) ensured greater reliability.

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BeoSystem 2500

Bang & Olufsen BeoSystem 2500

David Lewis’ Beosystem 2500 from 1991 marked a new era of design for hi-fi. In its design, he set out to emphasise the function of the machine. The front is protected by a Perspex eyeshade which slides inwards when in use. Lewis here introduced the flat, standing shape which has come to characterise his Bang & Olufsen designs; for instance BeoSound 9000.

Its interface, designed by Sally Beardleys, is simple and well thought out. Since Beosystem 2500 is very compact it has taken a lot of work to make its small loudspeakers effective and harmonious. Among other things this has been solved by making use of separate power sources to the loudspeakers in order to optimise their sound. The design was followed up by BeoSound Century, which, compared to the 2500 is smaller and cheaper.

Tradition had it that music systems should be recognised at such. However, not so at Bang & Olufsen. In spite of its size, Beosystems 2300 and 2500 featured operation and performance on a level that compared with larger B&O audio systems. And adding to the magic of the fascinating new sound experience at the time of its introduction, was the way that the smoked glass doors slid open the instant the beams are broken by a wave of your hand – revealing the controls beneath.

Beosystem 2300 / 2500 gave you two extremely powerful active loudspeakers – BeoLab 2500 – which acted as completely integrated components in the system. The source selection and programming keys you needed to operate Beosystem 2300 / 2500 were located in a central keypad. And just above them was an illuminated display which could keep you informed of the source and track you were listening to. Every time you touched a key, the display told you exactly which function you activated.

Beocenter 2500, or Beosystem 2500 as it was called when used with BeoLab 2500 active speakers, was developed from the idea of a flexible music system that could compete with the sound quality of heavy music systems. Thanks to the advent of active speakers, this was a possibility with both Beocenter 2500 and its CD-only capable Beocenter 2300. With active speakers, each of the powerful bass and treble units were equipped with their own separate amplifiers. In addition, the electronic cross-over network ensured full bass reproduction.

The loudspeakers were located on both sides of a centre console, where two clear glass covers automatically glided to the side when a hand was passed in front of them. Behind the glass covers there was access to the operating panel, receiver, CD player and a cassette recorder.

The receiver allowed the option of presetting 2 x 20 FM/AM radio stations. The cassette recorder featured Auto Reverse, Automatic Recording level, search function and Bang & Olufsen’s HX-PRO recording system, a system which ensures that the sensitive treble range is captured in recording. The memory in Beocenter 2300’s CD player allowed you to edit up to 100 CDs.

Both systems could be operated via their operating panel or a Beolink 1000 or Beolink 5000 remote control. There were sockets for headphones and connection to additional sound sources; extra loudspeakers can also be connected.

Beocenter 2500 was available with loudspeaker panels in cobalt grey, black, white, cerise or jade. It was later known as BeoSound Ouverture and could be made up to the Beosystem 2500 when incorporated with the BeoLab 2500 active loudspeakers.

Mounting Options
This classic design was reincarnated over a 21 year period with various mounts and stands. Floor stands were available with a pole stand or CD and tape storage, wall mount solutions allowed for the Hi-Fi only, or with BeoLab2500 speakers until these were discontinued

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BeoSystem AV7000

Bang & Olufsen Beosystem AV7000

Beosystem AV 7000 was sold primarily in North America and was designed to work together with Beolink 1000. However, both the Beolink 5000 or the Beolink 7000 remote control terminals could be used but with minor restrictions:

” Neither the Beolink 5000 nor Beolink 7000 terminal is recommended for use with the AV7000 Control Centre and the audio/video products that are used with it. To use a function in your audio system that is only available with the Beolink 5000/7000 terminal, you must reprogram your audio system:

Press SOUND, 1, STORE on the Beolink 1000 Terminal

Then operate the function you wish to use in your audio system, using the Beolink 5000/7000 Terminal

Finally, press SOUND, 0, STORE on the Beolink 1000 Terminal to program your audio system back again for the correct setting for daily use in an AV7000 System

NOTE: If you have the sound from your Bang & Olufsen audio system extended to other rooms in the house (via a Bang & Olufsen Local Control System), a Beolink 5000 or 7000 Terminal may be used for audio operation in that room.”

The unit delivered Dolby Pro-Logic Surround Sound. The system comprised: Beosystem 7000, a Beovision MX6000 television and four active speakers. It was eventually phased out when Beosystem AV9000 was introduced.

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BeoSound 1 (2001)

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 1 2001

” BeoSound 1 is maximum expression. Simple, elegant and easy to move around. Use it in your home, in the office, or bring it with you on holiday. Sleek and sturdy the BeoSound 1 fits in wherever you have a desire for great sound “ B&O Catalogue 2001 – 2002

With a tough, robust construction, BeoSound 1 is constructed to be moved and used anywhere. From the home to the work place, and everywhere in between, it offers you CD and radio with the simplest of plug-and-play functionality. And hidden behind the compact design lies a set of exceptionally powerful loudspeakers, capable of producing a dynamic sound far beyond the modest dimensions of the cabinet.
Sound
From intense rhythms to laid-back listening – the impressive three-way loudspeaker system hiding behind the cool aluminium front will handle the deepest bass and highest notes with ease. With its integrated handle, BeoSound 1 is easy to pick up and move around. It’s small enough to fit in anywhere, but still big enough to power a party with a sound that’s true, pure and clear. With its integrated handle, BeoSound 1 is easy to pick up and move around. It’s small enough to fit in anywhere, but still big enough to power a party with a sound that’s true, pure and clear.
Design
Life can be rough, but BeoSound 1 is built to take all the knocks. Tough, robust and solid, it’s a piece of musical freedom that’s always ready for take off. Do you want BeoSound 1 to stand out or blend in? Should it make a statement or become a part of its surroundings? The perforated aluminium front comes in 5 different colours – natural aluminium, black, blue, green and russet – which lets you decide for yourself.
Operation
Just plug it in and BeoSound 1 is at your command. All the buttons are concealed behind the front panel and in a layout that’s easy to understand and simple to use. BeoSound 1 can also be controlled via a Beo4 remote control. The discreet display keeps you in touch with what source you’re listening to.
CD and radio
Press “Load” and watch the CD holder flip up to accept your disc. Or switch over to Radio and listen to one of the 60 stations that can be stored in the programme memory. And if you ever need better reception, the aerial will rise at the touch of a button. BeoSound 1 was updated mid-October 2002 with an addition of a Wake Up Timer. There is also a new colour to the existing range – violet – with jade green being discontinued.
BeoSound 1 wins Japanese design award
In late 2002, the monthly magazine Nikkei BP Design marked its 15th birthday by conferring gold, silver, bronze and special “Nikkei Design” awards. Bang & Olufsen won an impressive bronze award for BeoSound 1. In their citation, the judges emphasised the striking design and that Bang & Olufsen are challenging the market for portable music . They also emphasised that the relatively low price will appeal to young people, while the straightforward functionality will “appeal to the older generation”. (From Beolink magazine 5, March 2003) BeoSound 1 – a golden opportunity to purchase the first models on the Internet – Press Release August 2001 Reach out for BeoSound 1 on the Net – Limited edition of new movable sound system may only be ordered via Internet ” On 15 September the first ever Internet event from Bang & Olufsen will be launched. Running simultaneously with the release of a newly revised home page, this special event will feature on-line reservation of a limited edition BeoSound 1. The newest audio product from B&O integrates a CD player, FM radio and powerful active loudspeakers in a surprising design. Encased in an exclusive Internet-only russet yellow colour, these 1,000 units will be available for pre-launch reservation only through visiting the Bang & Olufsen Web site.
On-line reservation
On-line reservation of the limited edition BeoSound 1 takes place quickly and simply; the visitor only needs to click on the appropriate photograph and fill out the registration fields that appear next. Filling out his or her name, address, e-mail and the like, he or she will receive a special BeoSound 1 screen saver as well. The 1000 units will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. When they are no longer available, the special BeoSound 1 screen saver will be provided to event visitors, along with an invitation to visit their local B&O dealer to receive a product demonstration.
Choose their own dealer
One of the most important elements in this campaign is that the visitor chooses from which Bang & Olufsen dealer he or she will purchase the physical product. It is through this dealer, and not Bang & Olufsen a/s, that all purchase-related elements will take place, including delivery and after-sales service.
Certificate and individual numbering
A special welcome envelope containing a Special Edition Certificate will accompany each product, in addition to a special silver label indicating the individual production number of the product, such as 1/1000, 2/1000, 3/1000 and so on.
Delivery upon market launch
Whilst the customer may reserve a BeoSound 1 already from 15 September, the delivery will not take place until the actual launch of the product in his or her market. This rolling launch process stretches from week 45, 2000 until week 6, 2001, dependant upon market. ”
BeoSound 1 with timer: a movable music centre
“Place your BeoSound 1 where you like. The compact design enables you to bring it with you anywhere. BeoSound 1 gives you an excellent sound experience no matter how near or far you are from the speakers. The sound is optimised and no additional settings.”
CD operation:
All buttons on BeoSound 1 are located at the back of the operation panel together with the CD compartment. Press LOAD to raise the CD compartment. With the CD compartment raised, offer the CD into the slot provided. Always load the CD with the CD label facing upwards. Press LOAD again to lower the compartment or just press CD to play your CD. If no CD is loaded when you press one of the CD buttons, the CD compartment raises, ready for you to load a CD. When the CD has stopped playing and no commands have been received for 30 minutes, BeoSound 1 switches to standby.
Radio operation:
You can store up to 59 different radio stations. To step between stored radio stations, the programme number or frequency must be shown in the display. To listen to the radio, just press one of the radio buttons, the radio will start playing on the radio station you last listened to. You can extend the built-in aerial by pressing the AERIAL button.
Features
the speakers will be muted when headphones are connected. BeoSound 1 presents essential audio sources in a compact and easily operated way the compact design and the built-in handle lets you to take the music with you remove the cover at the back of BeoSound 1 and connect the headphones to the socket the radio finds the first available station the first time you press the RADIO button press AERIAL to extend or retract the built-in aerial. You can also push the aerial down manually if no CD is loaded when you press CD, the CD compartment raises automatically, ready to be loaded with your favourite CD you can adjust and store the volume level at any time. The display will keep you informed of what you have chosen and you can set the display light to the level suitable for you. Also, choose the display mode you prefer for radio stations; programme number or frequency
Timer facilities
BeoSound 1 has a built-in 24-hour clock. If you wish to make use of the Wake-up Timer function, you must first make sure that the built-in clock in the BeoSound 1 has been set correctly. If BeoSound 1 has been disconnected from the mains for about 30 minutes, the clock must be set again. You can program BeoSound 1 to wake you in the morning. The Wake-up Timer is a once-only timer. Like an alarm clock it is deleted once it has been executed. While the Timer is being carried out, the time is shown in the display. When you operate or switch off your BeoSound 1, the display returns to the mode you have chosen. Once you have made one Wake-up Timer, BeoSound 1 automatically suggests the time you entered for the latest Wake-up Timer in the display when you enter a new one. Wake-up Timers can of course also be deleted again. When you choose radio as your source, the radio will start playing on the station you last listened to. If you choose CD as your source, it is essential that a CD is first loaded. If you do not choose a source, the radio, by default, will be used for your Wake-up Timer.
Beo4 operation
Although designed primarily for close-up operation, BeoSound 1 can also be operated from a distance. The Beo4 remote control operates all the primary functions in your BeoSound 1. With Beo4, you can switch on or off, select radio programmes or CD tracks and adjust sound. You can also use the Beo4 remote control to enter a Wake-up Timer. This is carried out while BeoSound 1 is in standby by pressing the MENU button on Beo4. Pressing the red button on the Beo4 remote control will show the time in the display. Note that if the clock has not been set, or BeoSound 1 has been disconnected from the mains for approximately 30 minutes, it is not possible to set a Wake-up Timer. The clock must be set first. You can call up the settings for the Wake-up Timer in the display to check the time or to delete the Wake-up Timer.
Protecting your BeoSound 1
You can choose whether or not to activate the PIN code system as a security measure against unwanted usage or theft. By activating this, BeoSound 1 is protected with a four-digit PIN code. The use of a PIN code means that if BeoSound 1 is disconnected from the mains for more than 30 minutes, the system can only be activated again by keying in your own personal PIN code. If the PIN code is not entered, BeoSound 1 automatically switches to standby after 3 minutes. If a wrong PIN code is entered, you are allowed five attempts to key in the code, after which the system is switched off and cannot be switched on for 3 hours. Should you forget your PIN code, it is necessary to contact a retailer who can assist you in receiving a Master Code from Bang & Olufsen. You need this code in order to reactivate your BeoSound 1. Note that if a wrong code is entered a second time, the cue ‘Err’ appears in the display and you must enter and confirm the code again. If you accidentally store a wrong digit, pressing STOP will delete all digits again and you can enter new ones. You may change your PIN code at any time. However, for security reasons it is only possible to change the PIN code five times within a period of 3 hours. You must enter your current PIN code before changing the code.
Changing your BeoSound 1 cover:
You can change the front cover of your BeoSound 1 to complement your new room décor by using the following tips. Like always, if you’re unsure about what you’re doing then consult a professional Bang & Olufsen technician who will be able to do this task for you easily and safely. Use the floor or some soft furnishing to avoid damaging your unit: With the BeoSound 1 isolated from mains electricity lie it down on the floor with the front panel facing upwards and the controls away from you, at the top Press firmly but gently on the outside rim of the front cover about one-third of the way down from the top; at the same time pushing the cover up, away from you This will release the mechanism and the cover will slide up and off the front of the unit To replace the cover position it onto the front of the unit- ensuring that the inner black plastic ‘screen’ is positioned in the sliders within the metal cover Gently place the cover back into its cut-out grooves on the unit, about one centimetre or so from the base Firmly but gently push down the cover towards you. The cover should gently ‘snap’ into place!
BeoSound 1 Special Edition
In 2001, before BeoSound 1 was available to purchase in High Street stores, a gold-coloured version – limited to 1000 models – could be bought only from the Internet. Needless to say, this limited edition was sold very quickly and at the time was very desirable. However, as the CD format has sadly lost it’s appeal, the value of these units has declined to the point of them only being worth what someone is prepared to pay – which isn’t much!

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BeoSound 8

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8

A late entry into the market but maybe the best sounding, the Beosound 8 benefits from the active speaker technology that B&O has championed for many years. Class D amplification is used for the two way loudspeakers and a placement switch is present which allows free standing, wall or corner settings.

The dock connection allows iPods, iPhones or iPads to be used and the provision of a line in connection allows other devices to attach.

In addition, a mini USB socket allows the customer to connect either a PC or Mac or an Airport Express to allow music to be played from their computer. A special Application written for the iPhone will be available which allows the music library to be browsed and also gives the BeoSound 8 both Alarm Clock functions and Net radio capabilities.

A wall bracket is available or the Beosound 8 can be used as a table top set.

Initially the speaker covers will be either black or white but Blue. Purple , Green and yellow covers will soon be available.

Control will either be via the iPod or with the Beosound 8 remote, which is aluminium. The set is also controllable with the Beo4,5 or 6.

The BeoSound 8 came in two ‘generations’ – the first being the regular BeoSound 8 with the old iPhone 20-pin connector, then the BeoPlay A8 (the ‘A’ standing for ‘Airplay’) which had no connector, but you could add a simple push-fit ‘Apple Lightning Connector’ for later Apple products if required.