Altec 803BS (ca. 1959–1962)
Almost nothing is documented about the Altec 803BS specifically. The period record describes the closely related Altec 803B - a 15-inch woofer that Altec marketed heavily on its linearity. What follows comes from that 803B documentation. The "S" suffix likely indicates a minor revision or stock variant, but no source confirms the difference.
High Fidelity (March 1959, p.27) reported that the 803B achieved "cone movement exactly following the voice coil current." An optical test, then considered the most precise measure of linearity, proved it. The same source gave dimensions of 18″ wide × 24″ high × 9″ deep and an unfinished price of $22.00. Audio (April 1961, p.37) showed the 803B in a component listing alongside other Altec drivers. That suggests it was sold both as a raw speaker and as part of complete systems.
Beyond those few facts, the 803BS and even the 803B remain lightly documented. No production years, frequency response curve, or original system pairings have surfaced in the standard trade literature.
Known Specs (from 803B period sources)
- Type: 15-inch woofer
- Power rating: 30 watts
- Impedance: 16 ohms
- Magnet: 2.7 lb Alnico-V ring magnet
- Dimensions: 18″ w × 24″ h × 9″ d
- Price (unfinished, 1962): $22.00
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