Altec Lansing Model 9861 (c. 1985)
A floor-standing, three-way horn speaker system with bass reflex enclosure, based on the "Voice of the Theater" A7-X.
Overview
The Altec Lansing Model 9861 is a high-efficiency, three-speaker, all-horn system with a front-loading bass reflex cabinet. Built around the design philosophy of the "Voice of the Theater" A7-X, it was engineered for extended frequency response and high sound pressure output. Housed in a walnut cabinet, the 9861 combines classic Altec horn technology with refined driver and enclosure tuning for improved low-end control and reduced resonance.
Specifications
| Impedance | 8 Ω |
| Playback frequency band | 20 Hz to 20000 Hz |
| Output sound pressure level | 100 dB (New JIS) |
| Allowable input | 65W |
| Crossover frequency | 1.2 kHz, 8 kHz |
| External dimensions | Width 630 x Height 1130 x Depth 470 mm |
| Weight | 63kg |
| Original price | ¥ 690,000 (around 1985) |
Design
The Model 9861 uses a front-loading bass reflex cabinet with tuning by Paul Supran Carr, designed to optimize airflow and minimize port noise. The low-frequency section employs the cone-type 411-8A driver with a 10 cm long-travel voice coil and an 8.2 kg magnetic circuit. Midrange is handled by the horn-type 902-8A driver with a Tangerine phase plug, mounted on the 811B horn—a three-section, double-reinforced design made from special alloy die-cast to reduce squeal and resonance. High frequencies are reproduced by the newly designed MR-902 tweeter, featuring a manta ray Lehorn for a conical 65° directivity at 10 kHz.
Context
Based on the "Voice of the Theater" A7-X, the Model 9861 retains Altec’s signature horn-loaded design while incorporating modern refinements in horn construction, materials, and enclosure tuning to enhance bass performance and overall clarity.
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