BeoSystem 2

The BeoSystem 2 was the receiver and control unit for the BeoVision 4 range of plasma display panels. Though the BeoVision 4 contained little input from B&O, the BeoSystem 2 was largely a Danish design and so formed the part of the system where a quality advantage could be gained. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.

Visually, the BeoSystem 2 resembled a small metal filing cabinet. This contained similar receiving and signal processing technology to that used in the other BeoVision models of the period and worked with a small IR and ambient light sensor (similar to the BeoLink Eye) to allow remote control operation using a Beo 4 terminal and automatic adjustment of the display’s brightness and contrast. A compartment at the top with a drop-down aluminium door was sized to make room for a DVD 1 or HDR 1 which of course could also be operated by remote control. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.

The built-in tuner could receive analogue services only but a set top box controller was included that could control up to two external digital receivers. Also included was a digital surround sound decoder and connections for up to six BeoLab active loudspeakers (five main channels and a subwoofer). The BeoSystem 2 was intended as the centrepiece of a comprehensive A/V system and so a large range of connections were provided for all types of auxiliary equipment including digital audio, HD TV and S-VHS. It could also perform the function of video master in a link system using the Masterlink socket. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.

Although easily forgotten, the BeoSystem 2 gave the otherwise bland BeoVision 4 a performance and versatility advantage that lifted the system as a whole above the many similar offerings from other manufacturers. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.