Altec Model Seven
1975 - 1980s
The Altec Model Seven was a premium bookshelf speaker that sat between the compact Model One and the floorstanding Model 19. It had a 10" woofer and a horn-loaded tweeter in a fairly compact enclosure, and it delivered a lot of performance for the size.
Specifications
| Type | 2-way, bass-reflex bookshelf loudspeaker |
|---|---|
| Low Frequency Driver | 10" (250mm) cone woofer |
| High Frequency Driver | Compression driver on small horn |
| Crossover Frequency | 1,800 Hz |
| Nominal Impedance | 8 Ω |
| Power Handling | 40W continuous |
| Sensitivity | 95 dB/W/m |
| Frequency Response | 40 Hz - 18 kHz |
| Dimensions | 20" H x 13" W x 11" D (approximate) |
| Weight | Approximately 35 lbs per speaker |
Design Features
- Horn-Loaded HF: Maintained Altec's horn-loading tradition even in a bookshelf design
- 10" Woofer: Larger than typical bookshelf speakers of the era, providing fuller bass
- High Efficiency: 95 dB sensitivity allowed use with modest amplifiers
- Quality Cabinet: Well-braced enclosure with quality crossover components
Performance
The Model Seven was known for:
- Dynamic, uncompressed sound typical of Altec designs
- Bass response that belied its bookshelf classification
- Clear, detailed highs from the horn-loaded tweeter
- Wide soundstage and excellent imaging
Applications
- Primary stereo system in small to medium rooms
- High-quality secondary system
- Studio nearfield monitoring (in some installations)
- Component of larger multi-room systems
Collectibility
The Model Seven turns up less often than the Model 19. Collectors value it for its balance of performance and manageable size. Well-maintained examples are sought after by Altec enthusiasts.
Images
The following sources may have images of this equipment. Always verify license terms and provide proper attribution when required.
Source 1: HiFi Wiki
- Link: HiFi Wiki
- License: Varies - check individual image
- Attribution Required: Yes
- Commercial Use: Unknown - verify on site
- Notes: User-contributed content. Attribution recommended.
Source 2: HiFi Engine
- Link: HiFi Engine
- License: User-contributed manuals
- Attribution Required: Yes
- Commercial Use: Reference only
- Notes: Great for specs/manuals. Request permission for images.
Source 3: Audio Database
- Link: Audio Database
- License: User-contributed
- Attribution Required: Yes
- Commercial Use: Unknown
- Notes: Verify license before use.
Source 4: Radio Museum
- Link: Radio Museum
- License: User-contributed
- Attribution Required: Yes
- Commercial Use: Unknown
- Notes: Attribution required for user photos.
Attribution Notice: This page links to external image sources. When using images from these sources, make sure you comply with their license terms. CC0 images require no attribution. CC BY and CC BY-SA images require attribution.
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