Radio Shack Optimus Ones were my first speakers as a teenager. They were hand me downs from my father and I loved them. Always wanted JBLs L100 s and have them now in a second vintage system. My main system has Tannoy Churchill’s, a long way from the Radio Shacks. I wouldn’t say vintage speakers were bad at all, they were the pioneers to where we are today! I love vintage equipment, especially now when I can afford the things I could only dream about when I was very young and very poor…..
All Pre 1970 Vintage speakers suck! Prove me wrong
Have tried many vintage speakers.
My conclusion: All pre-1970 vintage speakers suck. Well-made but crappy sound.
Used with both vintage amps and modern.
I do like many vintage amps such as Radio Craftsmen RC-500, Marantz tube, Scott tube, Heath W5, Lafayette and Pilot tube.
But back to pre-1970 speakers:
No bass, harsh, or honky mids and no highs. Not musical or listenable to me.
Tried many including Acoustic Research AR-3a, 2Ax, etc. The entire AR product line. Also Klipsch Horn, Large EVs. Altec VOTT. Pioneer CS-88 and 99.
Nothing pre 1970 is even close to the better modern speakers.
I challenge you: Prove me wrong.