Altec Model 14 and JBL C40 Comparison

[jdwdmi]

I have been a happy owner of JBL C40 for some time. I have found locally a pair of Altec Model 14’s. I have never heard a pair of any Altecs but they are on the list. I don’t have room for both and not really looking to tackle a project unless it’s really worth it.

The owner is now deceased and the wife wants to move them along. The 14’s are in excellent cosmetic condition but the surrounds are gone. I’m not sure what all they will need to get going.

My question is would they outperform my JBL’s?

It’s a long shot but was wondering if anyone was familiar with both models.

I would be powering them with a McIntosh MA252.

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated

 

[Nyjblbob]

I had the 14’s
Sorry I sold them only because
I went way up the Altec and Jbl Ladder
I still have the C34’s just an upright
Version of the c40’ Lowboys
1st problem with the C40’s Assuming you have the
130a/ dlh 175 load .
Horn is too close to the floor
Leggs and a tilt back helps
Awesome full range and high efficiency
The 14’s do have a great horn driver combo
They also suffer from the all too low horn location.
Stands with a tilt back helps they might be a better match with the Ss Mac amp
The Altec woofer is a real shocker on its Low
Freq capabilities considering the smaller size cabinet
Where they suffer is the lower Middle
Where the Jbls shine
If it’s Deep thumping bass and a very detailed high end
Get the Altecs
If it’s Smooth sound and a non fatiguing
Awesome midrange you like,
keep the Jbl’s
that do work better with Tube amps .