Altec 511A (c. 1960s–1970s?)
A sectoral horn designed for high-frequency reproduction in professional and high-fidelity audio systems.
Overview
The Altec 511A is a sectoral horn produced by Altec, primarily used in conjunction with specific drivers and crossover networks to form high-performance loudspeaker systems. While exact production years are not documented in the available research, its association with models like the 808-8A and 807-8A drivers places it within Altec’s mid-20th century professional audio lineup. It was engineered for use in both studio and high-fidelity applications, often paired with Altec drivers and N-series networks to achieve extended high-frequency response.
Specifications
| Type | Sectoral horn |
| Frequency Response (with driver and network) | 500 to 20,000 Hz or 500 to 22,000 Hz |
| Crossover frequency | 500 Hz |
Design
The 511A is classified as a sectoral horn, a design that provides controlled directivity and efficient high-frequency dispersion when mated with compatible compression drivers.
Context
The 511A appears in documentation alongside models such as the 511B, 511E, 802, 804, 806, and VOTT, suggesting it was part of a broader family of Altec horns used in modular speaker systems. It was commonly used with Altec drivers like the 808-8A and crossover networks such as the N501-8A or N-500E to form complete loudspeaker enclosures.
Market
The Altec 511A remains available on the vintage market, often described as a matching pair and noted as part of tested, functional vintage systems. One listing includes the horn paired with a 730C driver, labeled as tested and clean.
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