Rediscovering : Vintage Audio Delight
Updated 10 September 2023

by AudioPhil™
Audio Enthusiast & Vintage Gear Aficionado | Exploring the Past, Present & Future of Sound | #AudioTech #VintageAudio | Tap-tapping on the MPC One 🎧✨
In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, where sleek, modern designs and cutting-edge features often take center stage, there exists a niche that celebrates the timeless allure of vintage audio equipment. It's a world where the warmth of analog sound and the craftsmanship of a bygone era still hold sway. As an audio enthusiast deeply in love with the vintage audio sound, I recently stumbled upon a true gem from the past – the EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker. This discovery was like finding a lost treasure chest filled with the sweet sounds of nostalgia.
A Journey into Vintage Audio
Before delving into the fascinating world of the EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker, let's take a moment to appreciate the allure of vintage audio. There's something enchanting about the analog era – a time when audio equipment was meticulously crafted, and the pursuit of sonic excellence was at its zenith.
Vintage audio equipment often evokes memories of cozy living rooms adorned with wood-paneled walls and warm, inviting music playing from a turntable or reel-to-reel tape deck. It's a world where every note resonated with a sense of depth and character that's often elusive in today's digital age.
What is an Omni-Directional Loudspeaker
An omnidirectional speaker, often referred to as an omni speaker, is a type of loudspeaker designed to radiate sound uniformly in all directions, creating a spherical sound field. Unlike traditional speakers that emit sound in a focused, directional beam, omni-directional speakers disperse audio waves evenly in a 360-degree pattern. This unique design has several strengths and trade-offs.
Strengths
- Spacious Soundstage: Omni-directional speakers excel in creating a spacious, enveloping soundstage. They eliminate the "sweet spot" limitation found in directional speakers, allowing listeners to enjoy consistent audio quality from various positions in a room.
- Room-Filling Sound: Omni speakers are ideal for filling larger spaces with sound, making them well-suited for open-plan living areas and home theaters. Their even sound distribution minimizes audio dead zones.
- Reduced Reflections: Directional speakers often bounce sound off walls and other surfaces, leading to reflections and standing waves that can distort sound quality. Omni speakers mitigate these issues by diffusing sound in all directions.
Trade-offs
- Precise Imaging: While omni-directional speakers create a captivating sense of space, they may sacrifice pinpoint imaging. Audiophiles who prioritize precise instrument and vocal localization might find directional speakers more suitable.
- Controlled Bass: Managing bass frequencies in an omni speaker can be challenging. Directional speakers with dedicated woofers and subwoofers often offer tighter bass control.
- Placement Sensitivity: Omni speakers are less sensitive to placement than directional ones, but they still benefit from careful positioning. Placing them too close to walls can result in excessive bass, while moving them too far from walls might reduce bass response.
The EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker
EICO, or Electronic Instrument Corporation, was a manufacturer of electronics kits based in New York City, USA. Although it might not be a household name today, EICO made a significant impact on the audio industry during its existence, which spanned from 1945 to the mid-1970s. The EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker, which we are about to explore, exemplifies the brand's commitment to quality and innovation in the realm of audio reproduction.
The EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker is a true vintage audio enthusiast's dream. Its design and engineering represent a unique approach to achieving exceptional sound quality. What sets this speaker apart is its combination of a back-loaded horn design for the woofer and a custom assembly design for the whizzer cone. These elements work in harmony to deliver a sonic experience that's nothing short of blissful.
The Sonic Symphony: EICO HFS2 Sound Profile
One of the standout features of the EICO HFS2 is its remarkable sound profile. Let's break down the key aspects of its sonic character:
- Natural Bass via Horn Loading: The EICO HFS2 achieves natural, deep bass tones through a slot-loaded 12ft split conical bass horn. This design allows the speaker to reproduce frequencies as low as 30Hz with remarkable accuracy. When you listen to music through the HFS2, you'll notice a depth and richness to the bass that's truly captivating.
- Middles and Lower Highs: For the midrange and lower high frequencies, the HFS2 employs an 8 1/2" edge-damped cone. This front-radiation design ensures that midrange frequencies are clear, detailed, and free from distortion. Whether it's the soulful tones of a saxophone or the intricate plucking of an acoustic guitar, the HFS2 brings out the nuances in every note.
- Omni-Directional Super-Tweeter: Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the HFS2 is its super-tweeter, which radiates sound omni-directionally. This means that high-frequency details are dispersed in all directions, creating a captivating sense of space and ambiance. It's like having your own personal concert hall in your living room.
High Fidelity Acclaim
High Fidelity, a respected publication in the audio world, had this to say about the EICO HFS2: "Eminently musical with unusual suitability for stereo." This accolade underscores the speaker's ability to reproduce music with a level of authenticity and musicality that's highly sought after by audiophiles.
Technical Specification
To truly appreciate the EICO HFS2, it's worth delving into its technical specifications:
- Frequency Range: The HFS2 boasts a remarkably flat frequency response, covering the range from 45Hz to 20,000Hz. It extends even further, with useful output down to 30Hz and up to 40,000Hz. This wide frequency response ensures that you hear every detail in your music.
- Impedance: With a 16-ohm impedance, the HFS2 is compatible with a wide range of amplifiers. Its impedance curve is well-behaved, making it an easy load for vintage and modern amplifiers alike.
- Dimensions: Standing at a height of 36 inches, a width of 15 1/4 inches, and a depth of 11 1/2 inches, the HFS2 has a commanding presence. Its elegant design and craftsmanship are sure to make it a focal point in any audio setup.
Pricing and Options
For those lucky enough to acquire this piece of vintage audio history, the EICO HFS2 was available in several finish options. You could choose between Walnut or Mahogany for $139.95 or Blonde for $144.95. These prices might seem like a steal today, considering the exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship that the HFS2 offers.
Exploring the EICO HFS2 Further
For those eager to dive deeper into the world of the EICO HFS2 or Omnidirectional Speaker, there are some valuable online resources to explore:
- SoundUp: This website offers great photos showing the general assembly and finish of the HFS2, providing an up-close look at its craftsmanship.
- DIYaudio: If you're technically inclined and curious about the inner workings of the HFS2, you can explore a reverse engineering project for these speakers on DIYaudio.
- Omnidirectional Loudspeakers: For a broader understanding of the omnidirectional approach to hi-fi audio, check out articles on the concept and its history.
- Radio Electronics: This vintage review might offer additional insights and perspectives on the EICO HFS2 from the time it was released.
A Vintage Beauty Rediscovered
In the age of digital streaming and wireless speakers, stumbling upon a vintage gem like the EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker is a delightful surprise. It reminds us that the pursuit of audio excellence has a rich history, one filled with innovation, craftsmanship, and a passion for music.
For the modern audio enthusiast, the HFS2 represents an opportunity to experience the retro charm of yesteryears without compromising on sound quality. Its unique design, exceptional performance, and timeless appeal make it a prized possession for any audio collector.
As I continue to explore the world of vintage audio, the EICO HFS2 stands as a testament to the enduring magic of analog sound. It's a reminder that in the world of audio, the past can often hold the keys to unlocking a truly exceptional listening experience. So, whether you're an audio aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of the past, the EICO HFS2 Omnidirectional Speaker is a journey worth taking—a journey into retro sound bliss.
Photos of a refurbished EICO HFS-2
New photos have come up on the web of a fine example of a set of HFS-2's. These loudspeakers were developed in the age of mono. I am not sure if a pair of these omni-directional loudspeakers playing in stereo would do justice to the original design. Please follow this link to view this great gallery on Zozosir's blog.