Graham Audio LS6

Graham Audio LS6 – an original Chartwell design positioned between the LS3/5 and LS5/9

Not a BBC reissue — a fresh design from first principles

Unlike most Graham Audio models, the LS6 is not a recreation of a BBC classic. Instead, Derek Hughes designed it from scratch under the Chartwell name to fill the gap between the compact LS3/5 and the larger LS5/9. A 165 mm long-throw bass driver in a 17-litre cabinet consequently delivers bass extension and dynamic headroom comparable to the LS5/9, in a package considerably more compact. As a result, the LS6 is the most versatile loudspeaker in the Graham Audio range.

165 mm long-throw driver and bespoke tweeter

The 165 mm polypropylene bass/mid driver was developed specifically for the LS6 with a long-throw suspension, thereby achieving deeper and more controlled bass than a conventional driver of this size would manage. The bespoke 19 mm dome tweeter extends beyond 20 kHz and integrates seamlessly with the bass unit. A front panel switch raises the treble level by +1 dB or +2 dB — useful for off-axis listening positions or heavily damped rooms. Furthermore, a sophisticated crossover network optimises the combined output for performance in free space.

BBC thinwall cabinet construction

The cabinet follows the classic BBC thinwall philosophy, with mass-loaded panels and Rockwool damping. Since the cabinet is also treated with a bitumen layer, resonances are suppressed beyond what mass-loading alone achieves. A rear-firing reflex port delivers effortless, controlled bass while keeping the cabinet compact. The grille is diffraction-limiting in its design and attaches via concealed rare-earth magnets. Every pair is hand-assembled in Devon and finished in hand-matched real wood veneer.

Character and use

Above all, the LS6 is known for its musical openness and natural vocal presentation — a quality that runs through every Graham Audio design. Moreover, its greater dynamic range over the LS3/5 family means it handles more complex music with greater ease. Those who prefer a floorstanding form factor can consider the LS6f, which shares the same drivers but extends bass to 40 Hz in a larger cabinet.

Specifications

• Type: 2-way standmount loudspeaker, bass reflex
• Bass/mid: 165 mm polypropylene, long-throw, bespoke
• Tweeter: 19 mm dome, bespoke, beyond 20 kHz
• HF switch: +1 dB or +2 dB, front panel
• Frequency response: 45 Hz–20 kHz, ±2 dB
• Sensitivity: 87 dB / 2.83 V / 1 m
• Maximum output: >100 dB per pair at 2 m
• Impedance: 8 ohm
• Recommended amplifier power: 50–150 W
• Cabinet: 17 litres, thinwall, bitumen-damped, Rockwool
• Dimensions: 240×370×260 mm
• Weight: 9.5 kg
• Origin: hand-built in Devon, England

Frequently asked questions about the Graham Audio LS6

How does the LS6 differ from the LS3/5 and LS5/9?

The LS6 sits between the two in both size and performance. Since its 165 mm woofer is considerably larger than the LS3/5's 110 mm unit, it goes deeper in the bass and handles more demanding music. By contrast, it remains more compact than the LS5/9, making it the practical choice for medium-sized rooms.

What does the front panel switch do?

It raises the tweeter level by +1 dB or +2 dB. Since rooms and listening positions vary considerably, this adjustment allows the LS6 to be matched to its acoustic environment without affecting the rest of the frequency range.

Is the Graham Audio LS6 available as a floorstander?

Yes — the LS6f uses the same drivers in a larger cabinet, thereby extending bass response to 40 Hz. The tonal character remains identical to the standmount version.