Altec 510 reviews?


I would like review information or opinion on the Altec 510 speakers that were re-issued I believe in about 1999. My brothers each had 511's from the 80's and one had studio 14's. They both kept the 511's as they loved the full sound. I purchased the 510 model as 511's are not in the re-issue group. I have thought about moving toward some 604 based speakers or some Klipsch but really just want to hear of any reviews. I may save myself the cost if the difference in listening experience is not that substantial. Problem is I cannot really 'try out' any other speakers as in this area only new systems are available. Help!
obsessalot

Showing 2 responses by obsessalot

Thanks for your responses! Back in the early 80's my brother had trialed the Altec 14's and the 19's. The 14's won out. Then the 511's came into the picture. I heard them both in the same room. The 511's had a much fuller sound overall - not the pop you get from the horns but not shrill either. He sent the 14's down the road with another brother who also switched to the 511. Gave them to yet another brother who put them in the garage. So..long story short, I have the newer 510's and like them but was curious about the 604's until I read that the 604's do not sound that full and open at low volumes. Again, I haven't heard them myself. Sounds like you all are very satisfied with the 511/510 but I am curious as to what Jmbatkh did with his setup and why he may have gotten rid of the 510's. Did you find something better or go to horn loaded? By the way..on another thread on 'best speakers you ever heard' I have been convinced to join the gym vs sinking into the abyss of continual pursuit of better speakers. But I still like to hear others opinions on their experience with these altec towers.
Thank you for your response Jmbatkh. I really appreciate your taking the time. I am happy with the 510's and know that reading through all of the information here that I could do better to be sure that all other components of my system are up to par. That will allow the speakers a chance to perform to their optimum. Diminishing returns is also a good point. At what point to end the pursuit? It could be a long road. I hear so many technical issues brought up here and in different threads that I don't know what to make of half of it. That is, I don't know if I could detect phase shift and other technical occurances unless this auditory situation was pointed out to me. For that reason and others I think I would have to be in a training session with a sound engineer to understand and hear all of these differences. Again, appreciate the response. You have been helpful!