Region/State
(SA) South Australia/Australia
Suburb or Town
Golden Grove
Condition/Warranty
Condition: Good
Warranty: None or Limited Warranty (in compliance with Consumer Law)
Payment Method
Paypal, EFT, Cash on Pickup
Original Receipt Available
No
Shipping & Pickup Options
Shipping: Not available
Pickup: Available
Reason for Selling
No longer required
These are the Whise HA1500 badged version which I believe to be the same as the Nakamichi ones.
I really like the electrostatic sound ( I also have a pair or Quad 63 AQ from QuadMusik in Germany, hence this sale) , this model is an excellent example of an electrostatic hybrid.
Contains 2 amplifiers per speaker, one for bass and another for the panel. Line level or speaker level input.
Just add source and you have in my opinion an excellent system for a relative low outlay.
I don't have packing for them and due to size and shape shipping is not a good option. As you can see from the photos I currently ahve them primitively setup for photos so can demo if needed.
Information on this forum can be found here
WARRANTY INFORMATION (Private Seller)
The item being advertised is sold "as is", and no warranty should be assumed unless otherwise indicated and agreed between the Buyer and the Seller. Photos representing the item being advertised form part of the description unless otherwise specified.
This content has been generated using AI analysis. While we strive to ensure accuracy and quality, AI-generated material may occasionally contain errors or omissions. All information should be independently verified, and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers or editors.
User reviews and community discussions portray the Nakamichi HA1500 (also known as Whise HA-1500 or Nakamichi Dragon hybrid electrostatic floorstanding speakers) as a high-end, active hybrid design praised for exceptional sound and build, though with some serviceability concerns.
### Sound Quality
Owners highlight deep, accurate, and plentiful bass from the dual 8-inch isobaric ported woofers, holographic imaging, precise dynamics, and loud playback capabilities that outperform Martin Logan and Quad electrostatics in their price range. The electrostatic panel delivers clear upper midrange and treble, with near-perfect bass-panel integration and revealing performance on high-quality recordings—though it sounds merely "OK" on poor sources and can seem bright in suboptimal setups. Bass quantity "punches way above its weight," and the speakers handle cinematic volumes competently.
### Build Quality
Described as "beautifully constructed," "magnificent," and "world-class," with no visible nuts or bolts for a seamless, premium finish; internal 400W Class AB amps (200W per channel per speaker) power the panel and woofers. High-level inputs and rear tone controls enhance usability, but the sealed design raises concerns about servicing amps or woofers if failures occur.
### Reliability
Limited direct feedback exists, but used pairs from smoke-free homes in good condition suggest durability after years of use; no widespread failure reports, though the tight construction complicates repairs.
### Strengths
- Exceptional bass depth/quantity and imaging for a compact hybrid electrostat.
- Loud, dynamic performance rivaling pricier electrostatics like Martin Logan mid-range models.
- Active design simplifies setup (source/preamp only needed).
### Weaknesses
- Unforgiving of poor recordings, revealing flaws.
- Difficult internal access for maintenance.
- Potentially bright in wrong rooms or with subpar sources.
### Overall Reputation
Audiophiles view it as one of the best electrostatic speakers for the money—a "compact and sexy" world-class product deserving $12,000–$18,000 pricing, despite its tragic commercial history. Happy owners call it "very hard to beat" and "excellent sounding," with strong design beating even high-end Martin Logans. Note: Some search results mix in Nakamichi Dragon soundbar feedback (e.g., plastic/MDF build issues, subwoofer limits), which does not apply to these floorstanders.
This content has been generated using AI analysis. While we strive to ensure accuracy and quality, AI-generated material may occasionally contain errors or omissions. All information should be independently verified, and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers or editors.
Fair market price estimate for Nakamichi HA1500 (also listed as Whise HA-1500 Nakamichi Dragon hybrid electrostatic) floorstanding loudspeakers: AUD $3,000–$4,000 for good used condition.
This range is based on a 2018 Australian listing for a pair in good condition at $3,500 AUD, described as high-performing active hybrid electrostatic speakers with built-in amps, isobaric woofers, and excellent bass/imaging, sold due to owner relocation rather than defects. No recent (post-2018) Australian listings or user-reported sales appear in available data, limiting precision; prices likely hold steady or slightly decline for this discontinued, niche audiophile product praised in forums.
Condition significantly affects value:
- Used (good condition): AUD $3,000–$4,000, as per the cited example; factors like smoke-free storage, original accessories (e.g., power cables), and functionality boost value.
- New or mint: No current data; potentially AUD $5,000+ if available, but these are discontinued with no active new listings. Poor condition (e.g., damaged panels/amps) could drop to under $2,000.
Key factors affecting value:
- Rarity and discontinuation: Vintage Nakamichi high-end models are sought after but scarce, supporting premium used pricing.
- Condition and provenance: Internal 100W amps per channel, 3-micron film panels, and controls must work; cosmetic wear or repairs reduce value.
- Location and logistics: Australian sales favor local pickup due to size/weight; shipping adds $500+ AUD.
- Market trends: No 2025–2026 data; US Nakamichi site shows unrelated modern products at ~AUD $3,700–$4,500 (converted), but irrelevant to this model. Demand from audiophiles may sustain value absent broader sales info.
English (US)