Altec Lansing 1594A (1967–68)

Name: Altec Lansing 1594A
Brand: Altec Lansing

A solid-state power amplifier built for professional sound reinforcement and installed audio systems.

Overview

The Altec Lansing 1594A is a solid-state power amplifier produced from 1967 to 1968, designed for use in sound reinforcement, paging, and fixed audio installations. It was part of Altec’s 1500-series lineup, intended to drive theatre and public address systems, including Altec speaker enclosures like the 844A. With transformer-isolated outputs and compatibility with a wide range of load impedances, the 1594A was engineered for flexibility in industrial and commercial applications.

Specifications

Power output	100 watts continuous into 8 Ω (mono), rated for 4–50 Ω loads via output transformer taps
Input sensitivity	0.8V
Frequency response	20 Hz to 20 kHz ± 1 dB
Total harmonic distortion	1% at rated power
Gain	64 dB
Input impedance	~15 kΩ (high‑Z input)
Signal-to-noise ratio	85 dB
Load impedance	4 Ω, 8 Ω, 16 Ω, 50 Ω (transformer taps)
Outputs	Transformer‑isolated outputs with taps for 4, 8, 16 Ω, and constant‑voltage distribution lines (25 V/70.7 V or 50 Ω)
Mains power	120/240 V, 50/60 Hz (configurable)
Power consumption	Up to ~250 W at full output
Dimensions	483 mm (W) x 178 mm (H) x 216 mm (D) / 19 x 7 x 8.5 inches
Weight	16.1 kg / 35.5 lbs

Design

The 1594A features an early solid-state design with a positive-ground power supply and an output transformer for electrical isolation and impedance matching, supporting both standard speaker loads and constant-voltage distribution systems.

Context

Introduced around 1967, the 1594A was part of Altec’s 1500-series amplifiers tailored for professional sound reinforcement, paging, and installed audio applications in theatres, industrial facilities, and public venues.

Market

As of January 17, 2026, a unit sold for $350, reflecting its niche appeal among collectors and restorers of vintage professional audio equipment.

eBay Listings

Check Altec Lansing 1594A on eBay

As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.