Boston Acoustics, a name that resonates with audio enthusiasts, has a fascinating story to tell. From its humble beginnings in 1979 to its acquisition by Sound United, the company has left an indelible mark on the audio world. But what made Boston Acoustics so special, and what’s its place in the current audio landscape? This article delves into the history of Boston Acoustics, exploring its innovative speaker designs, its expansion into the car audio market, and the technologies that set it apart. We’ll examine its most popular products, compare it to competitors like Klipsch and Definitive Technology, and discuss where you can still find Boston Acoustics speakers today. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of Boston Acoustics and discover why its speakers continue to be cherished by audiophiles.
Key Takeaways
- Boston Acoustics prioritized accessible audio excellence. They built a reputation on delivering great sound at reasonable prices, making quality audio attainable for a wider audience.
- The company’s legacy extends beyond its current inactive status. Their focus on innovative design and durable construction continues to resonate with audio enthusiasts, and their products are still available through various channels.
- From home theaters to car stereos, Boston Acoustics offered diverse audio solutions. Their product range catered to various needs and preferences, reflecting their commitment to versatile, high-quality sound reproduction.
Boston Acoustics: An Audio Legacy
Boston Acoustics has held a prominent place in the audio world since its founding in 1979. Created by industry veterans Andy Kotsatos and Frank Reed, formerly of Advent, the company quickly earned a reputation for well-made home speakers offering premium sound at reasonable prices. This focus on quality and value proved popular, helping Boston Acoustics carve out a space in both home and car audio.
The brand became known for a wide range of products, including the E, HD, VR-M, and CR series for home audio and the Pro and Z series for car audio. Each line emphasized sound quality, durability, and craftsmanship, solidifying Boston Acoustics’ strong reputation.
D&M Holdings acquired Boston Acoustics in 2005, later becoming part of Sound United in 2017. Despite its rich history and innovative designs, the brand has faced difficulties lately. While Sound United still owns the Boston Acoustics name, the company is effectively inactive, with no new products planned and no further investment. This leaves Boston Acoustics as a marker of how audio technology and consumer tastes have changed over the decades. Its focus on quality sound and value remains a key part of its legacy among audio enthusiasts. For a deeper look at the brand’s history and significance, check out this article on Audio Champs.
How Boston Acoustics Evolved
The Early Days & Innovations
Boston Acoustics, founded in 1979 by Andy Kotsatos and Frank Reed, quickly made a name for itself in the audio world. Both founders brought experience from their time at Advent, another prominent speaker company. From the start, Boston Acoustics focused on creating high-quality home speakers that delivered premium sound without premium pricing. Their first speaker, the A-100, set the stage for their commitment to accessible audio excellence. This focus on quality and value would become a hallmark of the Boston Acoustics brand.
Entering the Car Audio Market
Not content with just the home audio market, Boston Acoustics expanded into car audio in 1983. They quickly became a supplier for major car manufacturers, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Chevrolet. Their car speaker lines, including the Pro, Z, and SPZ reference component speakers, offered the same commitment to quality and performance as their home audio products. This expansion allowed them to bring their signature sound to a wider audience. For those interested in upgrading their car’s sound system, our subwoofer guide offers helpful information.
Milestones & Achievements
Over the years, Boston Acoustics continued to innovate and grow. In 2005, D&M Holdings acquired the company, later becoming part of Sound United in 2017. While the brand is no longer producing new products, its legacy remains. Boston Acoustics speakers are still sought after by audio enthusiasts, a testament to their enduring quality and performance.
Exploring Boston Acoustics Products
Home Audio
Boston Acoustics built its reputation on quality home speakers. Founded in 1979, the company focused on creating premium sound at reasonable prices. They developed a wide range of speakers for home use, including the E, HD, VR-M, VR, CR, Micro Reference, and Lynnfield Series. These speakers aimed to provide excellent sound quality, durability, and value—a combination that resonated with audio enthusiasts. Whether you were setting up a stereo system or a full home theater, Boston Acoustics offered several options.
Car Audio
Boston Acoustics didn’t stop with home audio. In 1983, the company branched out into car audio, supplying speakers for popular Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and even Chevrolet models. Their first full-range component car speakers appeared in 1986, marking a commitment to innovative design and performance in car audio. This move brought their signature sound to a wider audience, letting drivers and passengers enjoy high-fidelity audio on the road.
Design Features
Boston Acoustics speakers became known for their build quality and durability. The company’s focus on merging art and science, especially apparent in the VS Series, highlighted their dedication to both aesthetics and performance. This series, with its ambitious design philosophy, aimed to create a listening experience that was as visually appealing as it was sonically pleasing. This commitment to design, along with their focus on great sound, helped establish Boston Acoustics as a respected name in audio.
Sound Quality & Tech
Boston Acoustics has a reputation for solid engineering and innovative design. Let’s explore some of the technologies they use to achieve their signature sound.
Drivers & Cabinet Construction
Boston Acoustics loudspeakers often feature proprietary driver designs. A driver converts electrical signals into sound waves. The company uses durable materials like aluminum and ceramic in their speaker cones, contributing to clear, distortion-free sound reproduction. The cabinets, which house these drivers, play a crucial role too. Boston Acoustics uses computer-aided design to create cabinets that minimize unwanted vibrations and resonances. This focus on cabinet construction helps deliver cleaner bass and a more accurate overall sound. Whether you’re listening to music or enjoying a movie, these design elements work together to create an immersive audio experience. For more information on speaker types, check out Supermarket Sound’s beginner’s guide.
Advanced Driver Tech
Boston Acoustics has developed several innovative driver technologies over the years. One example is their Deep Channel Design, which allows the speaker cone to move further, producing deeper bass response without distortion. They also employ technologies like Magnetic Fluid Suspension in some of their tweeters. This approach uses a magnetic fluid to dampen the tweeter’s movement, resulting in smoother, more detailed high-frequency reproduction. These advanced driver technologies contribute to the overall clarity and accuracy of Boston Acoustics speakers, making them a popular choice for both music enthusiasts and home theater setups. BoomSpeaker compares Boston Acoustics with Klipsch, noting both are known for high-end speakers that deliver high-quality sound.
Acoustic Suspension Tech
Boston Acoustics has long been associated with acoustic suspension speaker design. In this design, a sealed, airtight enclosure is used, and the speaker’s compliance (its “springiness”) is carefully matched to the enclosure’s volume. This creates a controlled environment for the driver, resulting in tight, accurate bass response. TechRadar reviewed the Boston Acoustics VS Series and highlighted the company’s dedication to merging art and science in their speaker designs. This approach to acoustic suspension technology contributes to the precise and balanced sound that Boston Acoustics speakers are known for, making them well-suited for critical listening and high-fidelity audio reproduction.
Boston Acoustics vs. the Competition
When you’re choosing new speakers, it’s helpful to compare Boston Acoustics with other well-known audio brands. This gives you a clearer idea of their strengths, weaknesses, and overall value.
Definitive Technology
Definitive Technology and Boston Acoustics both offer a range of home audio products. Definitive Technology often focuses on home theater systems and larger speakers. Audio Curious points out that these speakers sometimes need more space to perform their best. Boston Acoustics, on the other hand, offers a variety of sizes for different rooms and listening preferences.
Klipsch
Klipsch, like Boston Acoustics, has a long history in audio. BoomSpeaker highlights Klipsch’s features like Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC, often found in their soundbars and powered speakers. Boston Acoustics also offers modern connectivity, but their products often emphasize a balance between classic design and updated technology. This makes them a good choice if you like a more traditional look.
Value in the Market
Boston Acoustics has a reputation for good sound at reasonable prices. Audio Champs discusses the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and value, making them a competitive option for music lovers on a budget. While other brands might have more specialized features or higher-end components, Boston Acoustics consistently delivers solid performance and reliability. This makes them a worthwhile choice in the audio market.
Popular Boston Acoustics Gear
This section covers some well-regarded Boston Acoustics speakers and what makes them stand out.
SoundWare XS 5.1 System
The Boston Acoustics SoundWare XS 5.1 system is a compact home theater setup known for its distinctive wedge-shaped speakers. This design offers flexible placement options, letting you put them in corners or on shelves. Sound & Vision found the system surprisingly capable, delivering enjoyable sound for both music and movies, making it a solid choice for smaller spaces.
VS Series Speakers
The VS Series represents Boston Acoustics’ higher-end offerings, where sleek design meets robust audio technology. These speakers have a slim profile, making them an attractive addition to any room. Despite their size, the VS Series delivers powerful sound. TechRadar highlighted the VPS 210 subwoofer, praising its deep bass.
A Series Speakers
The A Series is a budget-friendly way to experience Boston Acoustics. These speakers prioritize durability and value, making them a good option for those starting to explore higher-quality audio. Audio Champs notes the A Series’ balanced sound, designed for clear and rich audio whether you’re listening to music or watching movies.
What Users Say
Home Audio Feedback
Users praise Boston Acoustics home audio speakers for their clear, balanced sound, finding them well-suited for various setups, from casual music listening to dedicated home theaters. Many appreciate the versatility of the product line, covering everything from bookshelf speakers for apartments to larger floor-standing models for spacious rooms. This adaptability makes them a popular choice for both movies and gaming. You can find more information on the history of Boston Acoustics speakers.
Car Audio Experiences
Boston Acoustics has a strong following in the car audio community. Fans often point to the brand’s history of innovation, starting with their first car audio component speakers in 1986. Drivers appreciate the punchy bass and crisp highs, making long commutes and road trips more enjoyable. The durability of Boston Acoustics car speakers is also frequently mentioned, with many users reporting years of reliable performance even in harsh conditions.
Common Praise & Concerns
Across both home and car audio, Boston Acoustics consistently receives positive marks for build quality and longevity. People feel they’re getting a well-made product that will last. Reviews often mention the brand’s rich heritage and dedication to quality. However, some discussion online suggests a possible dip in quality with their architectural speakers. Some users on forums like AudioKarma have voiced concerns about these newer models, particularly compared to older Boston Acoustics products. This mixed feedback highlights the importance of researching specific models before making a purchase.
Where to Buy Boston Acoustics
Online Retailers
You can find Boston Acoustics products at several online retailers. Sites like eBay offer a wide selection of Boston Acoustics home speakers and subwoofers, often with quick and free shipping. You can often find both new and used products on eBay, which is helpful for shoppers with different budgets.
Authorized Dealers
If you want to ensure authenticity and quality, look for Boston Acoustics products at authorized dealers who specialize in audio equipment. These retailers carry genuine products and offer expert support, so you can get the right equipment and advice.
Second-hand Markets
Another option for buying Boston Acoustics products is the second-hand market. eBay offers a variety of used speakers in addition to new items, making it a good place to find more affordable options. This can be especially useful for audiophiles who want to add to their setup without overspending.
Pricing & Value
Boston Acoustics caters to various budgets, whether you’re setting up a simple listening space or building a premium home theater. Their product lines offer different price points, making it easier to find the right fit.
Entry-level Options
The Boston Acoustics A Series is a great starting point if you want solid performance without a hefty price tag. These speakers offer a good introduction to the brand’s sound quality, ideal for those beginning their home audio journey. They’re a definite upgrade from basic, generic speakers, making them a worthwhile investment for better sound in your home.
High-end Offerings
For those seeking top-tier audio, Boston Acoustics offers higher-end options like their VS Series. Reviews praise this series’ commitment to high-fidelity sound, merging art and science for a premium listening experience. These speakers represent a more significant investment for serious audiophiles who prioritize exceptional quality and design.
Current Availability
While Boston Acoustics may have shifted its primary focus, finding their speakers is still relatively easy. eBay frequently features a wide selection of new and used Boston Acoustics speakers and subwoofers, often with reasonable shipping costs. This marketplace allows you to find deals on various models, from entry-level to high-end, depending on your needs. You might even find some discontinued models, adding a unique element to your audio setup.
Boston Acoustics: Past, Present, & Future
Collectible Models
Boston Acoustics, founded in 1979 by Andy Kotsatos and Frank Reed, quickly became known for its home speakers. Their focus on premium sound at reasonable prices appealed to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Over the years, Boston Acoustics produced a wide range of speakers for both home and car audio, including popular series like the E, HD, VR-M, Pro, and Z. Many of these older models are now sought after by collectors and vintage audio enthusiasts, especially those seeking that classic Boston Acoustics sound. You can often find these vintage speakers on online marketplaces like eBay.
Community Support
Even though Boston Acoustics isn’t releasing new products, a dedicated community of users still appreciates the brand’s legacy. Online forums and discussion boards are filled with people sharing their experiences, offering advice, and discussing various Boston Acoustics products. This continued interest demonstrates the lasting impact the company has had on the audio world. The passion for the brand ensures information and support remain available for those still using Boston Acoustics speakers.
Brand Status & Availability
While Sound United still owns the Boston Acoustics brand, the company is no longer actively developing new products. Sound United has shifted its focus, and no new models are currently planned. This makes finding brand-new Boston Acoustics equipment more challenging. However, you can still purchase existing stock from authorized retailers like Crutchfield, or explore the second-hand market for used or vintage models. Despite the brand’s current status, Boston Acoustics maintains a presence in the audio landscape, thanks to its history of quality products and ongoing community support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston Acoustics still in business?
While the Boston Acoustics brand still exists under Sound United, they aren’t actively developing new products. Their focus has shifted, and no new models are currently planned.
Where can I buy Boston Acoustics speakers?
You can still find Boston Acoustics speakers through various channels. Online marketplaces like eBay often have a selection of new and used models. You might also find some remaining stock at authorized retailers specializing in audio equipment. For vintage or discontinued models, exploring the second-hand market can be a good option.
What are Boston Acoustics speakers known for?
Boston Acoustics built its reputation on delivering quality sound at reasonable prices. They were known for a balanced sound profile, durable construction, and a range of options to suit different listening preferences and budgets. Their speakers were popular for both music and home theater use.
Are Boston Acoustics speakers good?
Boston Acoustics speakers generally receive positive reviews for their performance and value. They were known for clear, balanced sound and solid construction. However, some online discussions suggest a potential decline in quality with their more recent architectural speakers. It’s always a good idea to research specific models before purchasing.
What is the history of Boston Acoustics?
Founded in 1979 by former Advent employees Andy Kotsatos and Frank Reed, Boston Acoustics initially focused on home speakers before expanding into car audio. D&M Holdings acquired the company in 2005, and it later became part of Sound United in 2017. While no longer producing new products, Boston Acoustics remains a recognized name in the audio world.
