High-Performance 3-Way Speaker Kit AS-1373

Heathkit (Brand), Heath Co.; Benton Harbor (MI)

  • Year
  • 1975
  • Category
  • Kit (Parts plus instruction) or building instructions only
  • Radiomuseum.org ID
  • 370892
    • alternative name: Heath Company

 Technical Specifications

  • Main principle
  • Audio-Amplification
  • Wave bands
  • - without
  • Details
  • Hi-Fi equipment
  • Power type and voltage
  • No Power needed
  • Loudspeaker
  • 3 Loudspeakers
  • Material
  • Wooden case
  • from Radiomuseum.org
  • Model: High-Performance 3-Way Speaker Kit AS-1373 - Heathkit Brand, Heath Co.;
  • Shape
  • Console with any shape - in general
  • Dimensions (WHD)
  • 14.5 x 26 x 11.875 inch / 368 x 660 x 302 mm
  • Notes
  • But numbers can't begin to describe the sound. The 1 woofer provides solid, well-defined bass. And the woofer-to-midrange crossover frequency is 500 Hz to minimize intermodulation distortion and insure smoothness. The natural-sounding midrange is due in large part to two design features normally found only in speakers costing over $300. First, a special subenclosure isolates the 4 1/2" midrange speaker from distortion caused by woofer vibrations (most bookshelf systems use a less effective plastic back behind the midrange cone). Second, the subenclosure is filled with a polyester damping material which prevents reflections — a primary cause of midrange coloration. The 1" dome tweeter is one of the finest made — excellent power handling and superb definition. Even at 12,000 Hz its horizontal dispersion is 120°! 

    Innovative design makes it an even better speaker. Poor imaging (a constantly-shifting blur of sound) is a common problem in bookshelf speakers. To create a sharply focused sound "image", all three of the AS-1373's drivers are flush-mounted. And there are no "rails" around the edges of the cabinet to limit treble dispersion or cause peaks and dips in tweeter response. For optimum imaging, the tweeter should be located directly above the midrange. The AS-1373 is the only speaker that permits this whether you position the system horizontally or vertically — simply interchange the positions of the tweeter and switch plate. Finally, the handsome foam grille contributes to superior imaging because it is more acoustically transparent than ordinary grille cloth — especially at high frequencies.  

    Efficiency plus power handling. Although the AS-1373 can be driven by as little as 10 watts, it's rated at 200 watts max. (the woofer can withstand up to 400 watts of pulse power). So, while the AS-1373 can be used with almost any amplifier, a high-power amplifier like the AA-1640 reveals its awesome dynamic range. And the AS-1373 is the only bookshelf system which provides maximum protection by individually fusing each driver, virtually eliminating expensive burn outs. The sophisticated crossover circuit (a weak link in many systems) is every bit as rugged as the drivers. Two subtle but effective controls match the mid- and high-frequency response to your room's acoustics. And for easy bookshelf or wall mounting, the controls and fuses are accessible from the front by simply removing the grille.  

    Designed to be seen as well as heard. The sturdy acoustic suspension enclosure is covered on all four sides and the front with luxurious walnut veneer. Even without its grille, the AS-1373 is a beautiful addition to any room. And the foam grille, which comes in black, can be spray painted to suit your room's color scheme. Easy to build — even for first-time kitbuilders. Assembly requires just 7-8 hours per system and when you're finished, you'll own a better sounding speaker than you thought possible at this low price. 

  • Price in first year of sale
  • 149.95 USD
  • Mentioned in
  • -- Original prospect or advert (1975 Heathkit Xmas Catalog Page 44 "New" "Available November")
  • Author
  • Model page created by Glen Orriss. See "Data change" for further contributors.

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