Kenwood LSF-777
Compact 1997 K’s bookshelf with point-source-oriented SS network and DDD baffle. No comprehensive third-party spinorama is available; the used market price is low, and no cheaper current speaker with equal-or-better measured performance was confirmed, so value is 1.0.
Overview
The Kenwood LSF-777 is a late-1990s compact 2-way bookshelf from the K’s line. It features a 15 cm woofer and 2.8 cm soft-dome tweeter, an SS (Subtraction Series) crossover network, and a DDD (Diffused Diffraction Design) baffle aimed at point-source behavior[1][2]. Published figures are: 45 Hz–30 kHz, 6 Ω, 84 dB/1W/1m, 2.2 kHz crossover[1][2].
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]There is no CTA-2034-style comprehensive third-party dataset available for the LSF-777. We therefore hold the score at the neutral 0.5 (unknown measurement) while listing key manufacturer-published figures for context (45 Hz–30 kHz, 84 dB/1W/1m, 6 Ω)[1][2]. This section is provisional pending credible independent measurements.
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.6}\]It’s a standard passive 2-way bass-reflex bookshelf with anti-magnetic design and engineering touches (SS network, DDD baffle)[2]. The low sensitivity (84 dB/1W/1m) implies more amplifier headroom is preferable compared with today’s higher-efficiency designs[1][2].
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{1.0}\]Denominator (review target market price): the 120-day used-market average is 21,916 円, which converts to ≈149 USD using the ECB euro reference rates dated 2025-08-26[3][4].
Comparator (cheapest equal-or-better current product): JBL Stage A130, a current passive 2-way with robust third-party measurements demonstrating good response/directivity[6]. The regular market price is ≈299.95 USD[5][7].
Equivalence (minimal note): functions align (passive 2-way bookshelf), and third-party data indicate at least as good response/directivity[6].
As of today, no current speaker (new, regular price) was confirmed below the target’s ≈149 USD while meeting the above equal-or-better criterion. Therefore CP = 1.0[5][6][7][3][4].
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]It is discontinued and available used only. Expect unit-to-unit variance from age-related parts (surrounds/crossover) and limited official support.
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]The SS network (energy-sum consistency via series topology) and DDD baffle (diffraction mitigation) are principled directions toward point-source behavior[2]. However, absent quantitative proof of audible gains, we keep a modest score.
Advice
Best suited for near- to mid-field listening at modest levels if you appreciate vintage K’s design. Due to sensitivity, pair with an amplifier providing healthy headroom[1]. Planning a path to a well-measured current model (e.g., JBL Stage A130) later is pragmatic[6].
References
[1] Audio Database, “TRIO/KENWOOD LSF-777 specs”, https://audio-database.com/TRIO-KENWOOD/speaker/lsf-777.html (accessed 2025-08-27)
[2] Audio Heritage, “KENWOOD LSF-777 overview”, https://audio-heritage.jp/TRIO-KENWOOD/speaker/lsf-777.html (accessed 2025-08-27)
[3] Yahoo! Auctions, “120-day average for ‘kenwood lsf-777’ (21,916 円)”, https://auctions.yahoo.co.jp/closedsearch/closedsearch/kenwood%20lsf-777/0/ (accessed 2025-08-27)
[4] European Central Bank, “Euro foreign exchange reference rates (2025-08-26)”, https://www.ecb.europa.eu/stats/policy_and_exchange_rates/euro_reference_exchange_rates/html/index.en.html (accessed 2025-08-27)
[5] JBL, “JBL Stage A130 | Home Audio Loudspeaker System”, https://www.jbl.com/loudspeakers/STAGE%2BA130.html (accessed 2025-08-27)
[6] Erin’s Audio Corner, “JBL Stage A130 Review” (2021-11-12), https://erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/jbl_stage_a130/ (accessed 2025-08-27)
[7] Klarna, “JBL Stage A130 — Lowest price 299.95 USD”, https://www.klarna.com/us/shopping/pl/cl267/3200849696/Speakers/JBL-Stage-A130/ (accessed 2025-08-27)
(2025.8.28)