Altec Lansing 805B Horn Speaker

The Altec Lansing 805B Horn is a mid-20th century high-efficiency loudspeaker design. It was developed in the 1950s and was built for both professional sound reinforcement and high-fidelity home audio. It has exceptional sensitivity, a powerful presence and a detailed midrange, and vintage audio enthusiasts, studio engineers and horn speaker fans still go after it.

The 805B is over half a century old and still sought after for its dynamic performance.

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Model	Altec Lansing 805B Horn
Year of Production	1950s (continued in use through 1975)
Type	Passive horn loudspeaker
Driver Configuration	Single compression driver with multicellular horn
Compression Driver	Typically Altec 288 or equivalent
Impedance	16 ohms
Sensitivity	~105 dB (estimated)
Frequency Response	500 Hz – 16 kHz (driver-dependent)
Power Handling	Dependent on amplifier and driver condition
Enclosure Type	Requires external bass enclosure or baffle
Dimensions (approx)	24" H × 18" W × 12" D
Weight	~35 lbs per unit

Historical Context

The Altec Lansing 805B is part of the "Voice of the Theatre" series, a family of horn loudspeakers Altec Lansing developed for professional audio environments. It came out in the early 1950s and evolved from earlier models like the 805A, with improvements in horn geometry and driver integration.

The multicellular exponential horn was engineered to control sound dispersion, minimize reflections and give even coverage across large venues. That made the 805B a staple in movie theaters, broadcast studios and public address systems throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

As high-fidelity home audio caught on, audiophiles began adopting the 805B for its clarity and dynamic range. Paired with a suitable low-frequency enclosure - such as those housing 15" or 18" woofers - the system gave a full-range, high-efficiency listening experience that few contemporaries could match.

The 805B comes from the era of American loudspeaker design where efficiency, durability and sonic precision came first.

Sound Signature

The Altec 805B has a vivid, immediate sound with exceptional clarity and dynamic punch. Its high sensitivity lets it produce high sound pressure levels with relatively low amplifier power, which makes it a good match for tube amplifier setups.

Midrange: The standout feature—crisp, lifelike, and highly detailed. Vocals and acoustic instruments are rendered with remarkable presence.
High Frequencies: Extended and energetic, though some users find them bright or forward, especially with modern recordings.
Bass Response: Limited by design; the horn only reproduces mid and high frequencies. Deep bass must be provided by a companion woofer system.
Overall Character: Transparent, dynamic, and engaging—perfect for jazz, classical, and vocal-centric genres.

Maintenance and Restoration Tips

Because of their age, surviving 805B units often need maintenance to restore optimal performance:

Compression Driver Inspection: Check the diaphragm for tears or warping. Original Altec 288 drivers may need re-coning or remagnetization. Consider professional restoration services.
Horn Integrity: Inspect the multicellular horn for cracks, dents, or delamination. Surface corrosion on the aluminum throat can affect high-frequency response.
Crossover and Wiring: If used in a multi-way system, verify the condition of passive crossovers. Replace aging capacitors and inductors to prevent distortion.
Mounting and Placement: The 805B benefits from proper positioning—aimed toward the listening area and isolated from vibrations. Use sturdy stands or wall mounts.
Pair Matching: For stereo use, ensure both horns are restored to the same specification to maintain balance.

Collectibility and Market Value

The Altec 805B Horn is highly collectible, earning an 8/10 on the vintage audio scale. Its value depends heavily on condition, originality and the type of compression driver installed.

Market Value: $800 – $2,500 per pair
Factors Affecting Value:
Original Altec 288 driver (higher value)
All-original finish and hardware
Provenance (e.g., studio or theater use)
Restoration quality (non-invasive, period-correct parts)

Units with documented history or rare variants (e.g., special finishes or military use) can command premium prices at auction or among private collectors.

Conclusion

The Altec Lansing 805B Horn is more than a speaker—it's a piece of audio history. Its combination of engineering brilliance, sonic excellence, and enduring design has secured its place in the pantheon of classic loudspeakers. Whether used in a vintage hi-fi setup or preserved as a collector's item, the 805B continues to inspire awe and admiration among those who value the golden age of sound reproduction.

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