Altec Model Nineteen (1970s)

A consumer loudspeaker using professional-grade drivers in a ported cabinet, known for high sensitivity and studio-monitor accuracy.

Overview

The Altec Model Nineteen (also known as Model 19) is a consumer loudspeaker from Altec Lansing, produced during the 1970s. It was part of Altec's home hi-fi lineup. It put professional-quality drivers, like those used in the 9846 series, into a cabinet that could live in a living room. It's a two-way system with a 15" woofer and a 2" compression driver on a multicell horn. Frequency response is extended and sound pressure efficiency is high.

Specifications

Woofer	15"
Tweeter	2" compression driver with multicell horn
Frequency response	30 Hz - 22 kHz
Power handling	75 W
Impedance	8 ohms
Sensitivity	99 dB
Dimensions (W x H x D)	28" x 32" x 16"
Weight	125 lbs
Crossover frequency	1200 Hz

Design

The Model Nineteen uses a ported enclosure and a crossover set at 1200 Hz. The 15" woofer (model 416-8B) handles the low end. The 2" compression driver (802-G or 902) sits on an 811B multicell horn. The crossover does a lot of the EQ work for the system and includes a treble attenuation control. Crossovers can be recapped to restore performance.

Context

The Model 19 came after the professional 9846 series. Altec adapted its studio-monitor technology for home use, with high sensitivity and accurate sound reproduction in a consumer cabinet. It was part of Altec's effort to bring professional audio quality into the home hi-fi market.

Market

Original Model Nineteen units command higher resale value than replicas or clones. Collectors prize them, particularly for the vintage Altec drivers. They pair well with tube amplifiers such as Stromberg Carlson or Dynaco 35. Amplifier choice is critical, though. Poor matches, especially with solid-state gear, can sound harsh in the upper mids and lower highs. They are reported to perform superbly with quality low-power tube or high-fidelity solid-state amplifiers, and 8-20 watts is often enough given their 99 dB sensitivity.

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