Altec Lansing 9848 Professional Monitor
The Altec Lansing 9848 is a high-efficiency, two-way passive loudspeaker system from the 1970s, part of Altec's professional monitor series. It was built for recording studios, broadcast facilities, and live sound reinforcement. It follows the horn-loaded approach Altec pioneered, with a dual-woofer setup and a multi-cell horn. The sound is dynamic and articulate, and vintage audio enthusiasts and professional engineers still go looking for them.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | Lansing 9848 |
| Brand | Altec |
| Year of Production | 1970s |
| Configuration | Two-way, passive crossover |
| Woofers | Dual 12-inch (2 x 12") |
| Horn Assembly | 811B multi-cell horn with 806A compression driver |
| Power Handling | 100W RMS (2 channels, stereo) |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 97 dB (1W/1m) |
| Frequency Response | 50 Hz – 16 kHz (approximate) |
| Crossover Type | Passive, internal |
| Enclosure | Heavy-duty wood cabinet, ported design |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 36" x 20" x 16" (approximate) |
| Weight | 85 lbs per cabinet |
Historical Context
The 9848 came out when broadcast and recording studios wanted loudspeakers with high output, clarity, and reliability. It sat in Altec's premium monitor lineup and was engineered for accurate sound reproduction under demanding conditions. The design draws on Altec's decades of horn-loaded experience, going back to the "Voice of the Theatre" systems of the 1940s and 1950s.
The use of the 811B multi-cell horn paired with the 806A driver provides exceptional high-frequency dispersion and detail, making the 9848 ideal for studio monitoring where off-axis response and transient accuracy are critical. The dual 12-inch woofers offer strong midbass punch and dynamic headroom, ensuring the speaker can handle complex program material without compression.
These speakers turned up in radio stations, mastering suites, and film dubbing stages throughout the 1970s and into the 1980s. The construction is heavy duty and the sensitivity is high, so they work well with tube amplifiers, which were still common at the time.
Sound Signature
The 9848 has a bold, forward sound with a pronounced midrange presence - good for cutting through dense mixes. The horn-loaded tweeter gives crisp, detailed highs with excellent transient response, and the dual woofers give a tight, punchy bass. It is efficient and dynamic, but by modern standards it does not reach deep into the sub-bass region. It typically rolls off below 50 Hz.
Listeners often describe the sound as "immediate" and "engaging," with a realism and presence that many contemporary designs have trouble matching. Sensitivity is high at 97 dB, so the speakers reach high sound pressure levels on relatively low amplifier power. That makes them a favorite with users of vintage and low-wattage tube amplifiers.
Maintenance and Restoration Tips
Because of their age, Altec Lansing 9848 speakers often need maintenance to restore optimal performance:
- Foam Surrounds: The original foam surrounds on the 12-inch woofers are prone to drying out and disintegration after 40+ years. Re-foaming or replacing the woofers with modern equivalents (such as those from OEM or specialty rebuilders) is a common and recommended upgrade.
- Crossover Components: Electrolytic capacitors in the passive crossover network may degrade over time, leading to reduced performance or even failure. Replacing these with modern, high-quality capacitors can significantly improve clarity and reliability.
- Horn Driver Care: The 806A compression driver is sensitive to overdriving. Always ensure proper amplifier matching and avoid clipping. Inspect the diaphragm periodically for tears or misalignment—repair requires specialized service.
- Cabinet Integrity: Check the wood cabinet for cracks, loose joints, or port blockages. The original ported design relies on proper internal volume and airflow; modifications can negatively impact bass response.
- Grilles and Cosmetics: Original grilles may be missing or damaged. Reproduction or custom fabrication can help preserve both aesthetics and driver protection.
Collectibility and Market Value
The Altec Lansing 9848 holds a collectibility rating of 7 out of 10 among vintage audio enthusiasts. The professional heritage, sturdy build, and distinctive sound keep demand steady in the used market. Pairs in good working condition with original components typically sell for $800 to $1,500. Fully restored units and those with rare finishes or provenance go for more.
The 9848 is not as common as the Altec A7 "Voice of the Theatre," but it holds a respected spot among vintage studio monitor collectors and high-efficiency speaker fans. It works for both music and film applications, so it still fits dedicated listening rooms and retro studio setups.
Conclusion
Altec was one of America's most influential audio companies, and the 9848 combines high efficiency, professional-grade components, and a commanding soundstage. With proper care and restoration, it can keep delivering for decades.
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