Fisher models XP-55b and XP-5a

[Warszawa]

Im new here, but have referencing this forum for quite awhile now. Thank you for all your wonderful knowledge on the things that make us tick. I don't recall what my first rig was, nor do I claim to have a wealth of knowledge on the electronica front, but I am a collector.

Recently, I moved from California to Virginia, and it just so happens that a few blocks from the apartment I'm renting is a Goodwill retail store. Naturally, I stop there nearly every damn day, it's like a magnet ever since my first find.

In the last 3 weeks I have found and purchased:

KLH Model 32
Fisher XP-55b
Fisher XP-5a

The last 2 I found within 2 days of each, and are in nearly pristine condition, which leads me to believe the same wonderful individual dropped off both sets. Maybe not though.

I also found a McMartin Model TR-E5 FM Receiver, in equally impressive condition, but I don't know really anything about it. That's what pretty much led to me finally signing up. I'd love to know more about this item, if anybody could point me in the right direction.

Thanks again for all your past, and future, help!

-K

Pics

 

[Drugolf]

There is a wonderful Fisher Speakers thread in the Fisher section you should check out.

 

[Warszawa]

There is a wonderful Fisher Speakers thread in the Fisher section you should check out.

Thanks! I think I saw one that was in 5 parts or something. Very informative. I got tons of info from there. I've owned several Fisher components over the years, but noticed them kinda dwindling in quality in the 80s. Still always looked nice though, with the white cones. My father was always a big Fisher fan.

Any info/guidance on the McMartin?

 

[Tim D]

Actually the KLH 32's might be the sleeper in that score. I have two pairs and was shocked at how much bass I can get out of these tiny speakers for what they are. While you won't be rocking the house, the 32's are great office or bedroom units. Just be mindful that the tweeters are a little hard to come by. I had to do a detailed search to find replacements and got lucky with a pair of tweets that while not identified as being for KLH 32 were the exact same units. These are simple to recap too. I believe it has a single cap (and an inductor that you probably don't need to touch).

The fishers are cool speakers and have a following, but they don't go for much $. They are more about great construction and great furniture than about great sound - decent sounding but won't win any awards. I have two sets of XP-7B's and just about 2 weeks ago I picked up a perfect set from the original owner for $40.

 

[Warszawa]

Actually the KLH 32's might be the sleeper in that score. I have two pairs and was shocked at how much bass I can get out of these tiny speakers for what they are. While you won't be rocking the house, the 32's are great office or bedroom units. Just be mindful that the tweeters are a little hard to come by. I had to do a detailed search to find replacements and got lucky with a pair of tweets that while not identified as being for KLH 32 were the exact same units. These are simple to recap too. I believe it has a single cap (and an inductor that you probably don't need to touch).

The fishers are cool speakers and have a following, but they don't go for much $. They are more about great construction and great furniture than about great sound - decent sounding but won't win any awards. I have two sets of XP-7B's and just about 2 weeks ago I picked up a perfect set from the original owner for $40.

You are spot on with the 32s. They sound the best, but are kinda sad to look at. Haha

The 5a pair sound pretty decent, and I haven't checked out the 55bs yet.

The 32s were hideous when I found them, but cleaned up alright.