Resurrecting High School Jensen Model 3 and Altec Challenger 1 - Help?

[RJHJR]

My siblings found my first speakers, Jensen Model 3's, in our parent's attic. They were popular in New Haven in the early '70s, if I recall. There were also Altec Challenger 1's, which I don't recall. The first inspection shows all the cabinets are in amazing shape but refoaming is desperately needed, which I will try.
Google has almost zero on them. Does anyone have the original specs or other information for either of these throwbacks?

 

[swechsler]

Are these the speakers you have (see pics)? They appear to be a two-way with a cone tweeter.

Speaker specs are not really all that important (or meaningful), especially when they're already in your possession. The most important thing is how they sound.

What are you planning on hooking them up to?

 

[RJHJR]

Yes, the Model 3 two ways are the Jensens I have. You probably know the photos you posted are practically the only ones on the internet. Knowing the specs and reviews are part of the fun for me. Once I get them sorted, they may go with any of a number of Onkyo, Denon, Sony receivers in the 100+WPC area or even some Class D amps.
I know the Altecs are fairly efficient at 90dB. We'll see what goes where. In the meantime, if anyone has any information or recent experience it would be appreciated!

 

[elitopus]

Those Altecs have some unique looking cones.

If you measure the cone/frame diameter and send the info to Rick Cobb he can probably set you up with new foam surrounds for both sets of speakers.

 

[RJHJR]

Thank you. I’ve just been watching foam replacement how-to’s on YouTube.
Should be 10” on the Jensen’s and 8” on the Altecs. It’s nostalgic to have them back.

Those Altecs have some unique looking cones.

If you measure the cone/frame diameter and send the info to Rick Cobb he can probably set you up with new foam surrounds for both sets of speakers.

 

[swechsler]

Knowing the specs and reviews are part of the fun for me.

Finding contemporaneous reviews is unlikely. You're probably aware that these are entry level speakers, nothing really special, and the audio mags usually reviewed models closer to the top of the line.

But I did find them here (page 104-ish). You can also check for reviews in other magazines of the time on the World Radio History website. Audio mags are here, but that doesn't include international publications that you get from the top navigation bar.

 

[bowtie427ss]

Not exactly the shiniest jewels from Altec. Challenger series was just about the last breath of the dying giant. They're fairly uncommon in the US, most were exported.

The series was continued by the new owners of the Altec consumer product line in Milford, PA as the "Discover Series".

 

[RJHJR]

Finding contemporaneous reviews is unlikely. You're probably aware that these are entry level speakers, nothing really special, and the audio mags usually reviewed models closer to the top of the line.

Thank you for the information, which is interesting, and the lecture. Had I expected to find contemporaneous reviews I wouldn't be here asking. The hints that these were my first speakers, high school, and nostalgia might add up regarding the entry-level aspect.
I'd like to hear how what we listened to in the day at that stage of our lives sounded. I don't think I paid $99 for them but whatever it was must have been a commitment. When I think that last year I bought two pairs of Sony SSCS5s for $73 each it puts a twist on things.
I have no idea how those Altecs got into my parents' attic. But I've ordered foam kits for both pairs, which will be a fun, low-risk exercise I'm looking forward to.

 

[FredLinon]

Thank you for the information, which is interesting, and the lecture. Had I expected to find contemporaneous reviews I wouldn't be here asking. The hints that these were my first speakers, high school, and nostalgia might add up regarding the entry-level aspect.
I'd like to hear how what we listened to in the day at that stage of our lives sounded. I don't think I paid $99 for them but whatever it was must have been a commitment. When I think that last year I bought two pairs of Sony SSCS5s for $73 each it puts a twist on things.
I have no idea how those Altecs got into my parents' attic. But I've ordered foam kits for both pairs, which will be a fun, low-risk exercise I'm looking forward to.



I remember coming home for summer break from college, ready to relax and enjoy some time with my family. But I also had a big speech at school and couldn't find the right words. I spent hours poring over my notes and trying to figure out how to find help to write a speech for me. That's when I decided to turn to help from https://paperell.net/write-my-speech for a speech that resonated with my audience. And now, as I reflect on that experience, I'm reminded of the importance of asking for help when needed. You might surprise yourself with how powerful your words can be.

Nostalgia...One of my favorite memories is listening to Pink Floyd with my dad on his old speakers in the garage. We spent hours there, tinkering with various projects while music played in the background. This garage was our refuge, where we could get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy each other's company. I would give a lot if I went back there. Good luck to you.

 

[RJHJR]

Are these the speakers you have (see pics)? They appear to be a two-way with a cone tweeter.

Speaker specs are not really all that important (or meaningful), especially when they're already in your possession. The most important thing is how they sound.

What are you planning on hooking them up to?

Sorry - I hadn't seen your post until now. Yes, these are the ones. I re-foamed the 10" woofers and, after some break-in, they sound pretty good. They certainly brought back memories. I use them as spares for events or the like. My expectations were low but they were fairly competent.
They are efficient and very easy to drive. Most recently I drove them hard with a Fosi Audio V3 / 48V at an outdoor picnic for hours and they did a great job from Sinatra to the Stones.

 

[Greg64]

Sorry - I hadn't seen your post until now. Yes, these are the ones. I re-foamed the 10" woofers and, after some break-in, they sound pretty good. They certainly brought back memories. I use them as spares for events or the like. My expectations were low but they were fairly competent.
They are efficient and very easy to drive. Most recently I drove them hard with a Fosi Audio V3 / 48V at an outdoor picnic for hours and they did a great job from Sinatra to the Stones.

Curious about the crossover and if you thought to update or upgrade?