Altec Lansing Model 8 (1981)
A bookshelf speaker system engineered for high-fidelity performance with a horn-type semiconductor tweeter and bass reflex design.
Overview
The Altec Lansing Model 8 is a 3-way, 3-speaker bookshelf system released in 1981. Designed by Paul Supran Gar, a top engineer at Altec, it was positioned as the flagship model in its series. The system features a 30 cm woofer, 13 cm mid-range driver, and a horn-type tweeter with a semiconductor diaphragm, combining Altec’s LZT technology with a Mantare horn for controlled high-frequency dispersion.
Specifications
| System type | 3-Way, 3-Speaker, Bass reflex system, Bookshelf Type |
| Woofer | 30 cm cone type |
| Mid-range | 13 cm cone type |
| Tweeter | horn type (semiconductor diaphragm) |
| Frequency response | 55 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Impedance | 8 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 92dB |
| Maximum input power | 200W (continuous program) |
| Crossover frequencies | 700 Hz, 5 kHz |
| External dimensions | Width 420 x Height 750 x Depth 350 mm |
| Weight | 23kg |
Design
The Model 8 was designed by Paul Supran Gar and features a horn-type tweeter that integrates Altec’s original LZT semiconductor tweeter with a Mantare horn. The tweeter uses a semiconductor diaphragm along with a Tangerine phase plug and Mantare horn to achieve flat high-frequency response and uniform directional characteristics. The enclosure employs a bass reflex system, and the front baffle uses an anechoic dump design. Other surfaces have a natural wood finish. Level controls are provided for mid and high frequencies, and the system includes automatic power control with an overload indicator for protection.
Market
The most common problem with the Altec Lansing Model 8, like many vintage speakers, is degraded surrounds—typically rotted, torn, or damaged over time.
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