Altec Lansing 9846A 2-Way Studio Monitor
The Altec Lansing 9846A is a professional studio monitor from the 1970s, built for accurate sound in broadcast and recording rooms. It belongs to Altec's line of studio monitors and follows the American approach to horn-loaded speakers: efficiency, clarity and durability. It has a 12-inch woofer and a high-efficiency compression driver. It became a staple in professional audio studios and is still sought after by audiophiles and collectors.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | 9846A |
| Brand | Altec Lansing |
| Year of Production | 1970s |
| Type | 2-way studio monitor |
| Power Handling | 50–75W RMS, 2 channels |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 96 dB (1W/1m) |
| Crossover Frequency | 800 Hz |
| Woofer | 12-inch paper cone with foam surround |
| Compression Driver | Altec 806A with 1.75-inch diaphragm |
| Horn | Altec 811B exponential horn |
| Cabinet | Durable plywood with textured black finish |
| Dimensions (H×W×D) | 26" × 15" × 12" (approx.) |
| Weight | 55 lbs per cabinet |
Historical Context
The 9846A came out when broadcast and recording studios wanted monitors with flat frequency response, high output and long-term reliability. It is part of Altec's professional monitor series and was engineered for critical listening. The sound is transparent and dynamic, which suits mixing and mastering.
The design uses Altec's horn-loaded technology, which increases efficiency and reduces distortion in the midrange and high frequencies. The 806A compression driver and the 811B horn give clear, well-projected highs. The 12-inch woofer gives tight, punchy bass. This setup made the 9846A a favorite in radio stations, TV studios and independent recording facilities across North America.
The 9846A traces its lineage back to the 604 Duplex, and it comes after decades of Altec work in professional audio. It was not as common as the 604. It was a more modern, compact alternative with improved power handling and frequency extension.
Sound Signature
The 9846A has a forward, energetic sound with excellent transient response and dynamic punch. Key characteristics include:
- Midrange: Clear and articulate, with the horn design enhancing vocal presence and instrument definition.
- Highs: Crisp and detailed without harshness, thanks to the smooth dispersion of the 811B horn.
- Bass: Tight and responsive, with the 12-inch woofer providing solid low-end extension for its era.
- Efficiency: High sensitivity (96 dB) allows the speakers to perform well even with modest amplifier power.
This makes the 9846A particularly well-suited for monitoring rock, jazz, and broadcast content where clarity and impact are essential.
Maintenance and Restoration Tips
Because of their age, Altec 9846A speakers often need maintenance to get back to proper performance. Common issues and recommended actions include:
- Foam Surround Degradation: The original foam surrounds on the 12-inch woofers commonly deteriorate over time. Replacing them with modern rubber or foam kits (available from specialty vendors) is essential for restoring bass response and preventing damage.
- Crossover Components: Electrolytic capacitors in the passive crossover can dry out or fail. Replacing these with modern film capacitors improves reliability and sonic performance.
- Horn Diaphragm Inspection: Check the 806A driver’s titanium diaphragm for tears or warping. Re-coning or replacing the driver may be necessary if damage is found.
- Cabinet Care: Clean the textured finish with a mild detergent and soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
- Grilles and Hardware: Original grilles may be missing or damaged. Reproduction grilles and mounting hardware are available from vintage audio suppliers.
Regular inspection and restoration keep the 9846A performing as it should.
Market Value and Collectibility
The Altec Lansing 9846A holds steady appeal in the vintage audio market:
- Market Value: $800–$1,500 per pair, depending on condition, originality, and completeness.
- Collectibility Rating: 7/10 – While not as iconic as the 604, the 9846A is respected for its studio heritage and sonic performance. Original, unrestored pairs in good condition command premium prices.
Enthusiasts value the 9846A for its vintage studio sound, build quality and historical significance in professional audio. Owners use it as an active monitor with modern amplification, or restore it for a classic setup.
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