GRAHAM LS5/9F

Floor-standing speakers

The Graham Audio LS5/9f is a floor-standing version of the LS5/9 model, inspired by the famous BBC monitor released in 1983. Although it uses modern drivers, the Graham version is close enough to the original specifications to still receive an official BBC license. The main difference between the two models is that the "f" version is floor-standing, while the original version was designed for bookshelf placement. Both were designed by Derek Hughes, who has strong ties to the BBC tradition through his work with Spendor Audio and the design of legendary speakers like the BC1.

Designer Hughes, and the BBC tradition, stand out for having developed speakers with almost unlimited resources and a unique opportunity to continuously compare their creations with live sound, especially orchestral music. This approach, unparalleled in the commercial world, allowed for the refinement of speaker design in a direct comparison with live music.

The LS5/9f shares the same drivers as the LS5/9 but features a larger cabinet, improving bass extension and dynamics. Its frequency response extends down to 40Hz, offering full reproduction for orchestral and rock music. The sound tends to be warm but well-balanced, never becoming excessive.

The speaker is noted for its surprising neutrality, while still retaining some distinctive characteristics. The adjustable tweeter can be set for optimal response.

The cabinet sound is very cohesive, thanks to the presence of a single driver that covers most frequencies, avoiding the distortions typically found in multi-driver speakers. The reproduction of pianos and orchestras is extraordinary, with a tonal coherence that makes the music even more engaging and natural.

Furthermore, the bass is particularly well-balanced, and the issue of the Allison effect (a common tendency for floor-standing speakers to have a dip in response between 100Hz and 300Hz) has been properly addressed in the LS5/9f, with greater energy in the sub-300Hz bass range. This, along with accurate placement in the room and possible EQ adjustments, allows for a very natural reproduction of music.

The Graham LS5/9f stands out for its ability to reproduce music that is realistic and musically accurate, with a natural tonal balance and no annoying distortions. With abundant but not excessive bass, and a sound that doesn’t fatigue, it represents one of the finest expressions of the BBC tradition. Its ability to reveal tonal truth makes it a very appealing option for high-quality sound enthusiasts.

Technical specifications:

• System: 2-way, reflex loading
• Frequency response: 40Hz to 20kHz, ±2dB
• Nominal impedance: 8Ω
• Sensitivity: 87dB SPL (2.83V, 1m)
• Maximum output: over 100dB per pair at 2m
• Bass/midrange: 165mm Polypropylene
• Tweeter: 19mm dome tweeter
• Recommended power amplification: 50 to 150 watts
• Finish: real solid wood
• Dimensions (w/h/d): 96cm x 32cm x 32cm (including base)
• Weight: 21kg