Altec 604E's ?

[KCguy33]

Hello all,
I've got a chance to pick up a pair of Altec 604E speakers, but I'm not sure if it's worth it. I'm also not very knowledgeable on the Altec speakers, so if anybody has a little background info, that would be much appreciated.

This set does look very nice (I saw one speaker opened up from the back), and the cabinets are in good shape as well. They are the original Altec cabs, with the lattice grilles. He said he won't take less than $800, which would definitely be the most I've ever spent on audio equipment. So, I'm basically just wondering if these speakers are worth the price and if they'll be noticably better than the Norman model 10's I'm using now (enough to justify spending that much).

Thanks very much!

 

[JSF13]

I'd say go for it. Here's pair that just went for $1149.00 on ebay without crossovers so I presume that means without cabinets as well.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/Vintage-Altec-60...ryZ50597QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

As far as sound it will take a little work to locate them in your room properly and adjust the pots but once you get there you will have outstanding sound. These speakers were THE recording studio monitor of choice for decades. There are some good cabinet plans available also if you're inclined to build better cabinets than the studio standard some time down the road.JMO

Here's the spec sheet.front and back.Just click on the image to blow it up.

http://www.voiceofthetheatre.com/images/604E.SuperD.1.jpg

http://www.voiceofthetheatre.com/images/604E.SuperD.2.jpg

 

[mhardy6647]

They are well worth it in good working order. In fact, in good cabinets with crossover networks, probably worth considerably more. The fact that the AlNiCo magnet 604 coax family are among (IMNSHO) the best sounding loudspeaker drivers on earth is just icing on the cake.

 

[Billfort]

I own 604-8G's and have heard the E version on many occasions - IMO, they are absolutely worth that kind of money.