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Yamaha NS-B951 Bookshelf Loudspeakers Yamaha Soavo NS-B951 Speakers. **AS NEW CONDITION NEVER USED AND RARE!!!**** DISCONTINUED BY YAMAHA! The NS-B951 takes bookshelf speaker quality to a new level, providing transparent sound from all types of data-rich, high resolution sound sources. Even at high volumes, there is no loss of clarity or accuracy. The strikingly bold design matches the audio performance. Soavo Concept: Delivering Natural Sound 16 cm (6-1/2”) Woofer with New A-PMD Combines Power with Accuracy Aluminum dome tweeter with DC-Diaphragm™ with neodymium magnet Innovative cabinet
Should you call this A$4,000 asking price for like-new Yamaha Soavo 1 speakers a bargain? Yes, it is a strong deal. The original Australian RRP was A$4,000 for the pair, and typical used pricing for this discontinued model in like-new condition now ranges between A$650 and A$1,300 per speaker (A$1,300–A$2,600 total) in AUD. Since A$4,000 sits right at the original retail price but the speakers are listed as like-new with no wear, this is effectively a rare opportunity to buy pristine, original-owner speakers at their launch cost rather than the inflated current market for used units, making it a clear bargain for a collector or audiophile seeking flawless condition.
The Soavo 1s are well-regarded for their full-range, monitor-like focus, playing low and smooth with excellent fit and finish, including non-parallel cabinets and aluminium diecast feet. They combine the warmth of floorstanders with precise midrange control, rated at 89 dB sensitivity and 6 ohms, making them versatile for various systems. Their rarity as a discontinued model, combined with the like-new condition and likely original accessories (magnetic grills, outriggers), adds significant upside. With no common failure points reported and a clean listing, this is a genuine buying opportunity for a fellow enthusiast seeking high-value, pristine audio gear.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Yamaha stands as one of the world's most storied audio manufacturers, with roots extending far beyond consumer electronics. Founded in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha in Hamamatsu, Japan, the company began as a reed organ manufacturer before expanding into pianos and eventually becoming a comprehensive musical instrument maker. This deep heritage in acoustics and materials science would prove foundational to its later audio ventures. The company operated under its original name, Nippon Gakki Co., Ltd., until 1987, when it was renamed Yamaha Corporation in honor of its centennial.
Yamaha's entry into high-fidelity audio proved transformative for the industry itself. In 1954, the company released the Yamaha Hi-Fi Player, widely recognized as the world's first audio component to bear the "Hi-Fi" designation in its name. The company subsequently built a comprehensive product portfolio spanning amplifiers—beginning with the acclaimed A-100 in 1960—speakers, turntables, and digital audio equipment. The NS-1000 speakers, introduced in 1974 with beryllium drivers, became iconic reference monitors. Yamaha also pioneered digital audio technology, shipping the world's first CD recorder in 1988.
Today, Yamaha occupies a distinctive position as a mid-to-high-end generalist rather than a niche specialist. The brand commands respect among both casual listeners and serious audiophiles, balancing accessibility with genuine engineering credibility. Its reputation rests on six decades of consistent innovation, proven reliability, and the unique advantage of applying musical instrument expertise to audio reproduction. Vintage Yamaha components remain highly sought by collectors, while current products maintain the brand's tradition of delivering performance and durability across multiple price tiers.
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