Yamaha NS-800A (pack of 2)

The NS-800A embody Yamaha’s philosophy of shaping sound rather than smothering it. These two-way bookshelf speakers combine patented resonance-suppression technologies with materials taken directly from concert grand pianos, delivering sound reproduction that favors natural musicality over clinical neutrality.

A hybrid diaphragm with remarkable mechanical properties

Harmonious Diaphragm technology lies at the heart of the NS-800A, pairing Zylon—a synthetic polymer with elastic properties comparable to beryllium—with spruce, the same wood used for the soundboards of Yamaha grand pianos. This unprecedented combination is used in both the 30 mm dome tweeter and the 16 cm woofer.

Developed in the 1980s, Zylon provides exceptional rigidity, low mass, and outstanding thermal stability, pushing breakup modes to very high frequencies. Spruce, chosen for its centuries-old acoustic qualities, imparts an organic tonal signature to the diaphragms. This hybrid approach achieves a frequency response extending up to 65 kHz (-10 dB), far beyond the audible spectrum, ensuring the reproduction of upper harmonics without distortion within the usable bandwidth.

The crossover, set at 2.6 kHz, uses carefully selected components. Mundorf’s MCap SUPREME Classic capacitor—widely regarded as a reference in high-end audio—is paired with a substantial inductor for the woofer circuit. This fully hand-assembled crossover network reflects a level of artisanal care seldom seen at this price point.

Acoustic innovations inspired by instrument making

The Resonance Suppression Chambers (R.S. Chamber), mounted behind the tweeter, use two specially profiled tubes to cancel parasitic resonances generated behind the diaphragm. This technology redirects the rear waves of the dome through different paths that recombine out of phase, eliminating colorations without resorting to conventional absorbent materials.

Yamaha’s approach to dealing with standing waves within the cabinet diverges radically from traditional methods. The patented Acoustic Absorber tube eliminates internal resonances while minimizing the use of damping materials, thereby preserving the music’s natural dynamism and energy. Carefully modeled to resonate out of phase with the primary internal modes, this tube suppresses the main source of box resonances.

Deployed across several models in Yamaha’s hi-fi lineup, this technology allows a single absorber tube to address multiple resonance frequencies while preserving those that do not require treatment. Directly inspired by instrument luthiery, this approach maintains the liveliness and natural character of the sound reproduction.

Construction where every detail matters

Cabinet development benefited from laser vibrometers and FEM analysis (finite element method), tools usually reserved for musical instrument research. The internal bracing has been optimized to create a solid foundation in the low end while preserving spatial expression. The dimensions of 231 x 420 x 358 mm provide a generous internal volume for a bookshelf speaker, contributing to a wide soundstage.

The rear bass-reflex port integrates Yamaha’s Twisted Flare Port technology. This helical design reduces aerodynamic turbulence—a common source of distortion in conventional bass-reflex speakers—ensuring bass response that is precise and articulate. The solid brass binding posts, with a substantial tactile feel, ensure optimal mechanical and electrical connection while enhancing the product’s premium character.

The black piano lacquer finish, applied using the same process as Yamaha concert grand pianos, goes beyond mere aesthetics. This multi-layer finish, polished to perfection, turns each speaker into an object of contemplation as much as of listening.

A distinctive sound philosophy

Unlike the prevailing approach of creating completely inert enclosures, Yamaha applies to the NS-800A the vibrational control principles used in its musical instruments: determine what makes the cabinet resonate and where to suppress or control those vibrations. This philosophy, inherited from over 130 years of expertise in instrument making, preserves acoustic energy rather than systematically damping it.

With a sensitivity of 86.5 dB and a nominal impedance of 6 ohms (minimum 3.8 ohms), the NS-800A require quality amplification capable of delivering between 40 and 120 watts. This moderate sensitivity and the maximum power handling of 120 watts indicate that these speakers are optimized for medium-sized rooms rather than very large spaces.

Positioning within the Yamaha lineup

The NS-800A occupy a strategic position in Yamaha’s new high-fidelity speaker series. Larger than the NS-600A with their 13 cm woofer, they nonetheless share the same Harmonious Diaphragm technology and can be mounted on the same optional SPS-800A stands. Compared to the three-way NS-2000A floorstanders, the NS-800A offer a slightly different sonic presentation, characteristic of two-way designs.

The NS-800A share many technologies with the flagship NS-5000 speakers, priced at 20,000 Canadian dollars per pair, notably the Twisted Flare Port and the use of Zylon—even though the NS-5000 use pure Zylon while the NS-800A employ the Harmonious Diaphragm blend. This technological lineage positions the NS-800A as a particularly compelling proposition within their price range.

Technical Specifications

Acoustic characteristics

• Speaker type: 2-way, bass-reflex port
• Woofer: 16 cm, cone type
• Tweeter: 3 cm, dome type

Acoustic performance

• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 65 kHz (-10 dB), 100 kHz (-30 dB)

Electrical specifications

• Nominal input power: 40 W
• Maximum input power: 120 W
• Sensitivity: 86.5 dB
• Crossover frequency: 2.6 kHz
• Impedance: 6 ohms (minimum 3.8 ohms)

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 231 x 420 x 358 mm
• Weight: 13.0 kg

Included accessories

• Protective grille: 1
• Damping pads: 4