Altec 606 (1945–late 1960s)
A bass reflex corner enclosure designed for 12″ and 15″ speakers, produced by Altec from 1945 to the late 1960s.
Overview
The Altec 606 is a bass reflex corner enclosure made by Altec Lansing, intended to be placed in room corners for enhanced acoustic performance. It was produced from 1945 into the late 1960s and is often associated with high-efficiency systems using drivers like the 604D Duplex. The cabinet's design leverages corner placement to approach a more ideal acoustic loading environment, improving bass response and overall efficiency. It is celebrated for its lively, engaging sound with strong midrange and high-frequency reproduction, particularly when paired with original components.
Specifications
| Enclosure type | Bass reflex corner enclosure |
| Compatible drivers | For 12″ and 15″ speaker |
| Impedance | 16Ω |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 14" H × 9" W × 8" D |
| Weight | 22 lbs |
Design
The Altec 606 uses a corner cabinet design that enhances acoustic loading by utilizing room corners, effectively increasing enclosure volume and improving low-frequency response. It was intended for use with high-efficiency drivers such as the 604D Duplex and can be paired with the N1600B crossover. Some units have been modified with alternative drivers like the Tannoy dual concentric or Altec 416 and 511b components in DIY builds.
Market
The Altec 606 is considered a legendary vintage speaker system, with current asking prices reaching $2,950 for a single cabinet and up to $5,000 for a pair. It remains popular among audiophiles and DIY enthusiasts who use it as a basis for inspired builds using other Altec or vintage components.
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