Bookshelf Speakers — Yamaha NS-600A

The NS-600A is the smallest two-way speaker in Yamaha's current hi-fi series, placed below the NS-800A and built with technology from the company's higher models. Yamaha says the model was created by fusing rich aesthetics with the latest technology, combining a piano-style finish with patented acoustic features, and a dedicated stand, the SPS-800A, is made to fit both the NS-800A and the NS-600A.

Key specs that matter

The NS-600A is a ported design with a 5-1/8 inch cone woofer and a 1-1/4 inch dome tweeter, which take over from each other at a 2.6 kHz crossover frequency. Response is specified from 47 Hz to 65 kHz at -10 dB, extending to 100 kHz at -30 dB. Sensitivity is 85.5 dB. Nominal impedance is 6 ohm with a minimum of 3.6 ohm. Nominal input power is 40 W and maximum input power 120 W. Each speaker measures 206 x 384 x 330 mm and weighs 9.9 kg. A front grille and four cushions are supplied.

Engineering and use context

Both drivers use the Harmonious Diaphragm, a material Yamaha developed for this series from a blend of ZYLON fibre and spruce, the wood used in the soundboards of Yamaha grand pianos. The aim is a consistent tone color across the whole frequency range. A patented R.S. (Resonance Suppression) Chamber on the back of the tweeter uses two specially shaped tubes to cancel the resonance generated behind the diaphragm. Inside the cabinet a patented Absorber tube removes standing waves, so only a small amount of absorbing material is needed. The cabinet structure was developed with laser vibrometers, a tool from Yamaha's musical instrument research, and FEM analysis, and its cross piece has been reinforced. A Twisted Flare Port adds a gentle twist to the port to reduce airflow noise. The crossover uses the MCap SUPREME Classic audio capacitor from Mundorf of Germany and a large woofer coil. The solid brass terminals have a shape that fits the fingers for easy tightening, and the cabinet carries the same gloss finish technique used on Yamaha pianos.

Pairing

Given its modest efficiency and an impedance that dips low, the NS-600A is best matched with an integrated amplifier that is comfortable with low loads, such as a model from Yamaha's own A-S series. The SPS-800A stands complete the setup.

Alternatives

The Yamaha NS-800A is the bigger stand-mount two-way speaker of the same range, described by Yamaha as an uncompromising design.