Altec 604-8H (1980)
A 16" coaxial driver with Alnico V magnets and the first 604 model to feature the Mantaray horn
Overview
The Altec 604-8H is a 16" coaxial speaker driver from the long-running Altec 604 Duplex series. It was the mid and high-frequency unit in the ALTEC LANSING 6041 Monitor system, released in 1980. It sits at a transition point in the 604 line. It's recognized as the last version with Alnico V magnets and the first with Altec's Mantaray horn. No standalone specs like impedance or sensitivity are documented. It was designed for professional monitoring and rated for 65 watts of continuous pink noise.
Specifications
| Driver size | 16" |
| Magnet type | Alnico V |
| Horn type | Mantaray horn |
| Power Rating | 65 watts continuous pink |
Design
The 604-8H is a coaxial (Duplex) design, with mid and high-frequency reproduction in a single unit. It was the first 604 to use the Mantaray horn, which improved high-frequency dispersion and response. The magnetic circuit uses Alnico V magnets. That makes it the final 604 variant with this magnet material, since later models moved to ceramic. The driver was engineered for the 6041 Monitor system, where it handled the mid and high bands alongside a dedicated 38 cm woofer and horn tweeter.
Market
A pair of Altec 604-8H drivers with original crossover and custom cabinets was listed for $2,850.00 USD, which points to strong collector interest. No official original price or current production data exists. The driver's status as the last Alnico-based 604 and the first with the Mantaray horn adds to its desirability among vintage audio enthusiasts.
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