Graham Audio Chartwell LS3/5A Passive Monitor Loudspeakers

Graham Audio Chartwell LS3/5A: The Pinnacle of BBC Monitor Design

The Graham Audio Chartwell LS3/5A Passive Monitor Loudspeakers offer an authentic recreation of the BBC's iconic LS3/5A, a design renowned for its precision and clarity. Licensed by the BBC and engineered by Derek Hughes, this version revives the classic LS3/5A with remarkable attention to detail. It’s a design born from the BBC’s need for a compact, accurate monitor, evolving from the earlier LS3/5 model to accommodate changes in drive unit performance. The LS3/5A remains a beloved choice for audiophiles and professionals alike, appreciated for its neutral midrange and balanced sound signature.

Faithful to BBC Heritage, Modern Refinement

The LS3/5A was originally engineered by the BBC Designs Department to overcome the challenges faced with the LS3/5. Changes in the availability and performance of the drive units led to a redesign, resulting in the LS3/5A, which has since become a legendary speaker. Graham Audio's version retains the perforated metal tweeter grille, thick felt pads surrounding the tweeter, and even the Velcro-secured grille frame, mirroring the original's design. The cabinet is crafted from 12mm birch plywood using thin-wall construction with a fixed rear panel, adhering to the specifications of the BBC.

This attention to historical accuracy, coupled with the finest modern materials, ensures that the Chartwell LS3/5A stays true to the sound and spirit of the original. Audiophiles now have the rare opportunity to experience the subtle yet impactful differences between the LS3/5 and LS3/5A, as both designs are available through Graham Audio.

Precise Sound Reproduction with a Compact Design

The two-way sealed enclosure design is key to the LS3/5A’s precise soundstage and accurate frequency response. The 110mm bass/midrange driver and 19mm dome tweeter work together to deliver a balanced sound across the frequency range of 70Hz to 20kHz. The speaker is designed to handle intricate musical detail and reproduce sound with an impressive level of clarity. Whether you’re listening to classical, acoustic, or vocal-driven music, the LS3/5A excels in delivering nuanced, natural sound with minimal coloration.

With a nominal impedance of 11Ω and a sensitivity of 83dB SPL, the LS3/5A pairs well with amplifiers in the 25 to 50-watt range, ensuring optimal performance without distortion. The speaker can produce up to 95dB for a pair at 2 meters, filling small to medium spaces with well-balanced sound that defies its compact size.

A Legacy of Neutrality and Balance

The LS3/5A’s neutral midrange has long been a hallmark of its design, offering listeners an unbiased reproduction of sound. Reviewers often note the LS3/5A’s ability to present music with technical precision, a trait that continues to make it a go-to monitor for critical listening. Its tonal balance and linearity are praised for delivering accurate midrange detail without exaggeration, which is essential for anyone who values faithful sound reproduction.

Comparisons between the LS3/5 and LS3/5A often highlight the differences in midrange presentation. Some listeners appreciate the LS3/5A's more neutral and linear midrange, while others lean towards the fuller, richer character of the LS3/5. Regardless, both models deliver a level of sound quality that remains unparalleled in the world of compact monitor speakers.

Seamless Low-End Extension with Subwoofers

Although the LS3/5A is designed for accuracy and balance, adding a subwoofer such as Graham Audio’s SUB3 can extend the bass response without compromising the speaker’s synergy. Reviewers have emphasized how seamlessly the SUB3 integrates with the LS3/5A, providing a deeper bass response that enhances the overall listening experience. This combination delivers what many subwoofers fail to achieve—an extension of the bass range that feels natural and cohesive.

Conclusion: A Classic Reimagined

The Graham Audio Chartwell LS3/5A represents the pinnacle of compact monitor design, embodying the meticulous engineering principles of the BBC while incorporating modern materials and craftsmanship. Whether used in a professional studio environment or in a home hi-fi setup, the LS3/5A provides unparalleled clarity, neutrality, and balance. With its faithful recreation of the original design, audiophiles and professionals alike can now experience the iconic LS3/5A in its truest form, making it a must-have for those seeking an authentic and refined sound experience.