1950s-1960s Hi-Fi in the Home


Exhibition Room 1 showcases audio equipment produced in the 1950s, marking the beginning of the home-based audio era. 


The 1960s, in particular, are often regarded as the golden age of home audio, 


with many iconic brands emerging and gaining prominence during this time. 


A distinctive feature of the speakers from this period is their design, as they were often made to resemble furniture.


Exhibition Room 1 begins with the Lansing Iconic loudspeaker, 


a precursor to what we now know as JBL.


JBL is both a brand name and an abbreviation for James B. Lansing.


The Lansing Iconic, produced in 1937 by the Lansing Manufacturing Company for theater use, is often considered the beginning of home speakers. 

 
Its smaller size and exceptional sound quality made it suitable for narrow spaces within the home. 

 
Lansing merged with Altec to form Altec Lansing, but eventually, the company became independent and was rebranded as JBL in 1946.

 
The amplifiers on display alongside the home speakers in Exhibition Room 1 primarily feature iconic models from Marantz and McIntosh. 


The Marantz 7 preamplifier is a landmark piece, representing the pinnacle of Marantz's engineering. 

 
It was mass-produced and known for its consistent sound quality, achieved through the application of feedback technology.


Among McIntosh's extensive lineup, the MC275 power amplifier, first introduced in 1961, is a standout model. 


This flagship amplifier has been in continuous production for over 60 years, preserving its form and specifications.


This marks the end of Exhibition Room 1. We will now proceed to Exhibition Room 2.