Altec Lansing 846B Valencia (1974)
A floor-standing bass reflex speaker system released in 1974 as the successor to the 846A Valencia, available in two variants including the 846B.
Overview
The Altec Lansing 846B Valencia is a floor-type speaker system introduced in 1974 as the second-generation Valencia, succeeding the 846A. It was sold alongside the similar 846E model, with both sharing the same driver and crossover configuration as the Voice of the Theater A7-8. The 846B features a distinct cabinet design marked by a deep slit on the front grill, differentiating it from earlier models. Manufactured in the USA, it was offered in an American walnut finish and marketed primarily in Japan, where it carried an original price of ¥268,000 per unit around 1976.
Specifications
| Model Rating Method | 2-Way, 2-Speaker, Bass Reflex System, Floor Type |
| Units used (Low) | 38 cm Cone Type (416-8A) |
| Units used (High) | Horn Type (806-8A + 811B) |
| Crossover Network | N801-8A |
| Impedance | 8 Ω |
| Frequency Response | 40 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Power Handling | 50W (continuous program) |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB (New JIS) |
| Crossover Frequency | 800Hz |
| External dimensions (846B) | 673 mm wide x 752 mm high x 514 mm deep |
| Weight (846B) | 44.9 kg |
Design
The 846B Valencia uses a bass reflex cabinet system and features a unique front grill design with a deep slit as a visual motif, distinguishing it from the 846A. In contrast, the 846E Valencia shares a cabinet design with the 846A, approved and sold as a domestic unit by Altec.
Context
This speaker system is the successor to the 846A Valencia and represents the second generation of the Valencia line. In Japan, it was offered in two versions: the 846B and the 846E.
Market
Used pairs occasionally appear on the secondary market, with one listing noted at $2,450. A common issue reported includes non-functional horns and lack of bass response from woofers, with restoration efforts often involving horn repair and crossover updates.
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