ADS, originally Aria, began their partnership with Braun A.G. almost immediately. The synergies between the two companies were apparent and Dr. Godehard Guenther believed that the best way to bring top-shelf audio systems to the US market was to import them from Germany. So, he did. Starting with speakers and quickly spreading into other markets, ADS became a household brand with relative quickness.
Fast forward to the mid-80s and ADS sought to introduce some new, sleek, modern designs to the equipment lineup. The Braun Atelier line was the perfect solution. co-engineered between the two firms, the Atelier line was unlike anything seen before. Competing almost directly with Bang & Olufsen in terms of design and performance, the Atelier series won out by price point.
The R4 is a beautifully executed AM/FM Stereo Receiver introduced as part of the Atelier series. Introduced in 1982, this receiver is slick-looking and packed with excellent, easy-to-use features. Our example R4 works very well. The 80 watt per channel output is clean and clear and can power many speakers with authority and control. The flip-down front panel hides additional settings, including bass/treble controls and balance controls. Phono, dual-tape inputs, and Aux inputs round out the I/O side of the unit for additional functionality.
Disclosure: Our unit works 100% using the Speaker 2 outputs. The Speaker 1 output relays occasionally need “coaxing” on the right side. There is also a piece of the plastic outer case missing on the left-rear side of the unit. See photos. Price reflects these deficiencies.
Demos are available in Lawrence, MA.
$249 (plus applicable shipping and/or sales tax)
