
AS-51 Comparison
| photo | price | summary | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | $9.95 | Condition is Good, Heathkit Assembly Manual for Speaker System Model AS-51 1964, shipping cost = $4.99 | 100.0% |
| photo | price | summary | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | $14.80 | Condition is Unspecified, Heathkit Assembly Manual Model AS-51 Speaker System, shipping cost = $2.99 | 100.0% |

The Heathkit-Jensen AS-51 speakers, introduced in 1961, represent a significant milestone in the history of high-fidelity audio equipment. These speakers, designed by Jensen Transformers in collaboration with Heathkit, are renowned for their exceptional sound quality and elegant design.
The AS-51 speakers feature Alnico woofers, a type of magnet material that offers superior magnetic strength and stability compared to other materials commonly used in speakers at that time. Alnico magnets ensured accurate and detailed bass response, making these speakers an excellent choice for discerning audio enthusiasts.
The speakers' horn-loaded design is another key factor that contributes to their impressive sonic performance. The horns are designed to focus and direct sound waves towards the listener, resulting in improved efficiency, increased power handling, and enhanced clarity. The horns are crafted from high-quality wood, ensuring excellent acoustic properties and a visually appealing finish that complements any home audio setup.
The woofer cones are made of carefully selected paper pulp, which provides excellent stiffness and damping properties. This material ensures that the speakers can reproduce a wide range of frequencies with exceptional accuracy and minimal distortion. The speakers' sensitivity is listed as 88 decibels, making them efficient and capable of delivering impressive sound levels even with modest amplifier power.
The AS-51 speakers' design is as impressive as their performance. Their sleek, mid-century modern aesthetic makes them a stylish addition to any home or audio enthusiast's collection. The speakers' dimensions are 15 inches tall, 11 inches wide, and 8 inches deep, with a weight of approximately 25 pounds per pair.
The AS-51 speakers are a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of the 1960s audio industry. Their combination of Alnico woofers, horn-loaded design, and high-quality construction makes them a highly sought-after collectible item among vintage audio enthusiasts and a true icon of the golden age of high-fidelity audio.
The Heathkit-Jensen AS-51 speakers, introduced in 1961, are a vintage audio system featuring Alnico woofer horns. These speakers have gained a following among audiophiles for their unique design and sound quality. Let's discuss the pros and cons of buying these speakers based on their historical significance, sound quality, and practicality.
Pros:1. Historical Significance: The AS-51 speakers represent a significant era in audio technology. The Alnico magnets used in the woofer horns were state-of-the-art at the time. Their design is a testament to the engineering prowess of the 1960s.
2. Sound Quality: Many users report that the AS-51 speakers produce a rich, warm, and detailed sound. The horn-loaded design enhances the mid-range frequencies, providing a more natural and clear representation of vocals and instruments.
3. Character and Aesthetic Appeal: Vintage audio equipment like the AS-51 speakers can add a unique charm to any home audio setup. Their classic design and wood cabinets can complement the decor of traditional or retro-themed rooms.
Cons:1. Compatibility with Modern Equipment: The AS-51 speakers may require additional components or modifications to work with modern audio sources. For example, they might require a tube amplifier or a transformer to match the impedance of modern solid-state amplifiers.
2. Repair and Maintenance: Due to their age and complex design, repairing or maintaining these speakers can be challenging and expensive. Finding replacement parts or skilled technicians might be difficult.
3. Size and Weight: The AS-51 speakers are quite large and heavy, making them less practical for those with limited space or mobility.
Conclusion:The Heathkit-Jensen AS-51 speakers offer a unique blend of historical significance, sound quality, and aesthetic appeal. However, their compatibility with modern equipment, repair and maintenance challenges, and size and weight make them a less practical choice for some users.
If you are an audiophile with a strong interest in vintage audio equipment and a budget for the associated costs, the AS-51 speakers could be a valuable addition to your collection. Otherwise, consider modern alternatives that offer similar sound quality with more convenience and practicality.
Details:
So not offering woofers or horns individually at this time. See bottom of last picture for all the technical specifications. Rare vintage 1961. Heathkit speakers with valuable alnico 5 components. Probably worth more to sell as individual parts but hate separate from beautiful oak cabinets.
specifications vintaspeaker:
- brand: Heathkit-jensen
- mpn: As-51
- part type: Speaker Horn
offer vintaspeaker:
- sold #: 17
- started: april 20, 2025
- in stock #: 2
- options: seller-arranged-local-pickup
- prices: $9.95–$14.80
- item condition:
- Good
- Unspecified
- availability: in stock
seller vintaspeaker:
- city: uniontown, ohio
- rating: 100.0%
- # reviews: 1063
payments vintaspeaker:
- credit card: diners-club
- other
- wallet: apple-pay
general vintaspeaker:
- category: Electronics > Audio Video > Vintage Speakers
returns vintaspeaker:
- policy: no returns
shipping vintaspeaker:
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