Altec Lansing 875A Granada

The Altec Lansing 875A Granada is a classic high-efficiency loudspeaker system introduced in 1968 as part of Altec’s consumer-focused "Voice of the Home" series. Designed to bring professional studio monitor performance into domestic listening environments, the 875A combines Altec’s renowned horn technology with a compact, furniture-grade enclosure. With its lively dynamics, vocal clarity, and efficient design, the 875A remains a favorite among vintage audio enthusiasts and collectors.

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Model	Lansing 875A Granada
Brand	Altec
Production Years	1968–1972
Power Handling	50–75 Watts RMS
Impedance	8 ohms
Sensitivity	96 dB (1W/1m)
Crossover	N800-F passive network
Woofer	12-inch paper cone with foam surround
High-Frequency Driver	806A compression driver
Horn	811B constant-directivity horn
Cabinet Design	Front-ported, walnut veneer
Dimensions (H×W×D)	27" × 14" × 12" (approx.)
Weight	52 lbs per cabinet

Historical Context

The 875A Granada was developed during a pivotal era when high-fidelity audio was transitioning from niche hobbyist interest to mainstream home entertainment. Altec, already celebrated for its professional theater and studio monitors like the legendary A7 "Voice of the Theatre," sought to adapt that performance for home use. The result was the "Voice of the Home" series, which included the 875A as a flagship model.

By integrating the proven 806A driver and 811B horn—components derived directly from Altec’s professional line—the 875A delivered exceptional clarity and dynamic range. The inclusion of the N800-F crossover ensured smooth integration between the horn-loaded high frequencies and the 12-inch woofer. Housed in an elegant walnut veneer cabinet with a front-ported design, the 875A balanced aesthetic appeal with acoustic performance, making it a standout in both function and form.

This model exemplifies Altec’s engineering philosophy: efficiency, durability, and sonic transparency. Its design prioritized real-world performance with tube amplifiers of the era, which often produced lower power output—making the 875A’s 96 dB sensitivity a major advantage.

Sound Signature

The 875A presents a forward and dynamic midrange, making it especially well-suited for vocal-centric music, jazz, and classic rock. The horn-loaded 806A driver delivers crisp, detailed highs with excellent dispersion, though the top end is slightly rolled off compared to modern tweeters, resulting in a smooth, non-fatiguing character.

The 12-inch woofer provides punchy, articulate bass with a natural attack, enhanced by the front port for extended low-frequency response. While not as deep as larger floorstanding designs, the bass remains tight and well-integrated. Overall, the 875A offers an efficient, lively, and engaging presentation that brings recordings to life with minimal amplifier power.

Maintenance and Restoration Tips

Due to their age, surviving 875A speakers often require restoration to perform optimally. Here are common issues and recommended maintenance steps:

Foam Surround Replacement: The original foam surrounds on the 12-inch woofers typically degrade after 40+ years, leading to distortion or complete failure. Replacing them with modern rubber or foam kits is essential for restoring bass response and reliability.

Crossover Recapping: The N800-F crossover uses electrolytic and paper capacitors that may have dried out or drifted in value. Replacing these components (especially the electrolytics) improves clarity and prevents potential damage to drivers.

Horn Diaphragm Inspection: The 806A driver’s aluminum diaphragm can become damaged if overdriven or mishandled. Check for tears or misalignment; replacement or reconing may be necessary.

Cabinet Care: The walnut veneer is prone to wear, scratches, or finish degradation. Light cleaning with wood polish and, if needed, professional refinishing can restore the cabinet’s luster without compromising collectibility.

Grille Replacement: Original grilles are often missing or damaged. Reproduction grilles are available, or custom versions can be made to match the original perforated metal design.

Collectibility and Market Value

The Altec Lansing 875A Granada holds a collectibility rating of 7/10, appealing to vintage audio collectors, horn speaker enthusiasts, and those building period-correct systems. Its blend of professional DNA and home-friendly design gives it enduring appeal.

As of recent market trends, a matched pair in good working condition typically sells for $800–$1,500, with prices influenced by:

Originality (especially drivers and crossover)
Cabinet condition
Completeness (grilles, labels, hardware)
Provenance or rare finishes

Fully restored pairs with documented parts and performance upgrades may command higher prices, particularly when paired with compatible vintage tube amplifiers.

Conclusion

The Altec Lansing 875A Granada stands as a bridge between professional audio excellence and home hi-fi accessibility. Its powerful midrange, high sensitivity, and iconic horn design make it a rewarding choice for listeners who appreciate dynamic, expressive sound. With proper care and restoration, the 875A continues to deliver a vibrant listening experience—over 50 years after its debut.