loading
reading
writing
saving
searching
AR 3a's with optional Matching Microstatic Tweeters & AR Floor Stands. - $950 (Cary)
QR Code Link to This Post
During the period in which both speakers, the AR-3 and the AR-3a, were available some alternations had been made to the AR-3 model, being more and more similar to the newer AR-3a. Some changes, as well as parts that did not change are listed below:
Originally the grille cloth of the AR-3 was different from the AR-3a, but changed in the later half of the 1960ies (approx. 1967) and became identical to the one of the AR-3a.
Early AR-3a had the cloth-surround alnico magnet woofers identical to the AR-3, which were already used in the AR-1. Later the AR-3, as well as the AR-3a were equipped with foam-surround ceramic magnet woofers.
Crossovers of AR-3 and AR-3a are different: Mid / Tweeter: 1000 / 7500 Hz vs. 575 / 5000 Hz. The lower midrange of the AR-3a was better for dispersion.
Overall it can be said that maintaining the original Acoustic Research AR-3 is more difficult than the newer AR-3a. Parts are not as easy to find and less AR-3s are on the market in general. However, a AR-3 restoration project is a well doable thing and many guides are available online to do so correctly.
I've owned these speakers since 1972 & they've been covered in storage for many years. The cabinets are in overall Great shape. They HAVE been tested & One of them needs the woofer & tweeter replaced.
$950.00 OBO CASH SALE