Graham Audio LS5/9

Graham Audio LS5/9 – a BBC-licensed studio monitor, faithfully recreated

One cubic foot of BBC engineering, officially licensed

Designed by the BBC Research and Development department in 1983 as a compact alternative to the larger LS5/8, the Graham Audio LS5/9 is an officially BBC-licensed reproduction of the original. Derek Hughes recreated the design using modern drivers developed with Volt Loudspeakers, consequently meeting the BBC's original specification closely enough to qualify for a formal licence decades after the first pairs were built. As a result, the LS5/9 delivers the tonal neutrality and midrange clarity that define the BBC monitor tradition — in a cabinet of just one cubic foot.

200 mm Diaphnatone driver and Audax tweeter

The 200 mm Diaphnatone polypropylene bass/mid driver uses a die-cast aluminium frame and a high-temperature voice coil, developed with Volt Loudspeakers to the original BBC specification. Furthermore, the high-temperature motor allows the LS5/9 to handle substantial amplifier power and produce over 100 dB per pair. The 34 mm Son Audax HD13D34H soft dome tweeter is identical to that used in the LS5/8, thereby guaranteeing tonal continuity between the two models. A 24-element precision crossover integrates both drivers for optimum performance in free space.

BBC thinwall cabinet construction

The cabinet uses 9 mm birch plywood with hardwood baton reinforcements, manufactured to BBC specification. Mass-loaded panels push resonances away from the critical midrange region, while Rockwool provides superior air damping compared to conventional foam. The grille is machined from a single piece of 9 mm birch plywood and attaches via concealed rare-earth magnets. Since every joint is reinforced for long-term air sealing, the acoustic performance remains consistent over the life of the speaker.

Musical truth in a compact format

Above all, the LS5/9 is celebrated for its midrange — voices, acoustic instruments and small-scale classical music come through with a naturalness that transcends its modest dimensions. Moreover, the 8 ohm impedance and 87 dB sensitivity make it compatible with a wide range of amplifiers, including valve designs. Those seeking deeper bass extension can consider the LS5/9f, the floorstanding version that reaches down to 40 Hz.

Specifications

• Type: 2-way standmount loudspeaker, bass reflex, BBC-licensed
• Bass/mid: 200 mm Diaphnatone polypropylene, Volt Loudspeakers
• Tweeter: 34 mm Son Audax HD13D34H soft dome
• Crossover: 24-element precision network
• Frequency response: 50 Hz–16 kHz, ±3 dB
• Sensitivity: 87 dB / 2.83 V / 1 m
• Maximum output: >100 dB per pair at 2 m
• Impedance: 8 ohm
• Recommended amplifier power: 50–200 W
• Cabinet: 9 mm birch ply, thinwall, Rockwool damping
• Dimensions: 280×460×275 mm
• Weight: 14 kg
• Origin: hand-built in Devon, England

Frequently asked questions about the Graham Audio LS5/9

What is the difference between the LS5/9 and the LS5/8?

The LS5/9 is considerably more compact — its cabinet is one cubic foot versus nearly four cubic feet for the LS5/8. Consequently, bass extension is more limited, but midrange clarity and tonal neutrality are equivalent. Both models share the same Audax tweeter and the same designer.

Is the Graham Audio LS5/9 suitable for home use?

Yes — the 8 ohm impedance and compact dimensions make it well suited to smaller and medium-sized listening rooms. It performs best positioned away from the rear wall and on a suitable stand at the correct listening height.

What is the difference between the LS5/9 and the LS5/9f?

The LS5/9f is the floorstanding version with a larger cabinet, extending bass response to 40 Hz versus 50 Hz for the monitor. Both share the same drivers and designer — the choice depends on room size and bass preference.