Do you Think Altec model 19 is outdated speakers ?

NO! It is an updated version of the old Valencia with improved woofer and compression driver/horn. High sensitivity so capable of use with low-power amps.

@jasonbourne71, my question was is Altec 19 are outdated ? check it out on you tube.  https://youtu.be/eUDF25oZGf8

Until it gives up the ghost it is not outdated. Yes there may be better horn implementations but you have a working speaker set so no need

Why does anyone need affirmation about their setup?

The only thing to criticize here is the shaky video.

Sorry, I was unable to listen, because my stereo was up too loud. 

Not outdated at all. However, that James Taylor cover's godawful.

@simao +1

Mike

I owned a pair a few years ago. It is not outdated at all, on the other hand it is not a very good sounding speaker either, IMHO.

Seems classifying speakers as outdated or not isn’t useful.

Although technology marches on, many audiophiles enjoy older gear.  

Those speakers make James Taylor sound like a girl.

@tablejockey Frankly I  do not need affirmation about my system I'm only sharing info reason for shaky video I'm a disabled person No right arm No left leg , Thanks for your comments.

James Taylor isn't a girl?

@aewarren, it isn't the speakers that do that. 

@viridian +1 :-)

The question of whether your Altecs are outdated might actually stem from over-tweaking your system. Altec—along with Klipsch—speakers have a classic, signature sound. They weren’t designed to chase specs; they were built to move you.

From my experience, a lot of what we perceive as inconsistency in performance often comes down to music selection and listening habits. If you jump from one genre to another—or from one of your go-to test tracks to something totally different—without giving your ears and system time to settle in, you won’t fully appreciate what’s in front of you.

Don’t shortchange yourself. The system you've shared with the Audiogon community is a classic—full of musicality and heritage.

FWIW, just for the hell of it: sit down and listen to La Bohème all the way through, even if you’re not an opera fan. Then, follow it up with one of your favorite vocalists. The contrast and clarity will help you realize whether you're truly listening to the music—or just to the electronics.

Respectfully, you should not need the affirmation of others and you cannot expect others to be able to analyze SQ from a you tube video.  The recommendation is to ask yourself if the speakers sound compelling musical to you.  Many prefer the sound of horn loaded speakers.  Many need high sensitivity designs like horns based on their preference for the sound of low power tube amplification.  Many prefer vintage sound to modern detail and clarity.  There is no right or wrong.  
 

Responding directly, over the past 10 years speaker technology, including cabinet, crossover parts quality, and drivers have advanced significantly compared to the subject Altecs.  However, while I prefer the detail and clarity of these designs, they are not for everyone.  
 

My recommendation is to critically analyze you system compared to live acoustic music and set some goals for improving your system.  Then research journals to find brands that may meet you goal. Finally, audition and choose to keep the Altecs or spend for a new pair.  

@curlyhifi Thanks for your comments I've wide taste of music from opera to world music having spend over 45 years inside and outside of music industry, Having Met D,Garber (RIP) T.Mayer and many other  Genius  Audio designers they tuned their equipment by ear as an ex BBC Engineer  my ears are well trained and I  know  about room acoustics and well recorded music,WHEN listen music virtually I  invite musician into my room they do sing at to me ! if I  let you hear PUCCINI 's La Bohème  in my system You may think you are at the Royal Albert Hall . None of my system has been tweaked it is a simple SET Amps and iconic loudspeakers what I  share with Audiogon community has been rather amusing. Some members could not even recognized Stacey Kent voice!  I listen music Approx 60 hours a Week so please stop patronizing me how to listen music. have fun and enjoy whatever you do.

@jsalerno277  respectfully I  was  not asking affirmation from Agon community I  was only giving bit of flavor what an iconic speakers can do well tuned room and a good marriage with associated equipment and yet recorded by 5 years old  mobile phone. As for the  speaker technology I  do not think advanced dramatically a part from cosmetics excellent furniture finish to keep wives or spouses  Happy. from Walker's outstanding quad 57 to Tannoys still going nearly hundred years to Magnificent rather partner unfriendly Irreplaceable Great American ALTEC 's thanks GPA  to keeping it going ,thanks for your advice One can enter my music room can not get out once they hear the music playing. Have fun 

, enjoy what ever you do. 

Excellent.  You responded indirectly and positively to my question of point.  Your Altecs are musically compelling to you.  That is what is critical and the opinions of others does not matter.  
 

Regarding cabinet design, it has advanced substantially from an engineering perspective with regard to materials, computer assisted shaping, and bracing all designed to remove internal frequency reflections, reinforcements, and cancellations.  Speaker finishes for some companies are as important to SQ, others not, so generalization that the art of cabinetmaking was better in the past cannot be taken as an axiom.  
 

So I am glad you find your system musically compelling and I do not understand the purpose of your post, including the YouTube stream. 
 

Nice and clear.

A bit boxy and the peaks in the highs would have to go, at least for me.  Seems to be adding a bit of sibilance.

I owned a pair and thought they were very enjoyable, but I always preferred my Lascalas, for my own reasons and tastes. I heavily damped the horns, woofer frames and upgraded crossover components which brought the 19s to another enjoyment level but to my ears had two issues. I easily heard the coherence disparity between the bass section and horn, and the image was too exaggerated, especially with my near field listening. On the other hand, I prefer them over so many other speaker types, costing much more. I cannot comment on the sound, as I am not familiar with the song played, and YT compresses.......as long as you are happy, and this is what it is all about. Overall, nice system/room. My best, MrD.

What's outdated when it comes to speakers? The Model 19 had pros and cons:

Pros: sounds great, fabulous drivers, well-made, efficient

Cons: large, resonant cabinets (some would count that as a pro), inefficient crossover design w/ fixed slope, complex cabinet shape (difficult to repair or replace)

There are no outdated speakers when it comes to great American brands such as Altec Lansing. I’m still using speakers made in 1986 and they sound incredible. I had to crossovers redone and that’s about it. Keep rocking on!

An old guy (79) with old Altec A7-8 speakers brought new in 1975. These are an older version of your Model 19s. Yes they are big, but very efficient (97DB) and still sound great. Melco music server, Luxman DAC, and a Luxman tube integrated amp. You won't be disappointed with the Model 19s

Good luck, Craig

Art Dudley of Stereophile bought and listened to a pair of Altec Flamenco speakers.  

https://www.stereophile.com/content/listening-169-altec-flamenco 

@cns1946  An old and wise guy ! A 7 -8 are magnificent speakers it is a landmark product one of the greatest American loudspeakers ever. I  also have Altec 414-8c  Onken style cabinet They are great too but Altec 19 are got the edge.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI0PeIfivCo&t=101s&pp=ygUcaHR0cHM6Ly95b3V0dS5iZS9iaTBwZWlmaXZjb9IHCQnHCQGHKiGM7w%3D%3D

@jsalerno277  in fact I Responded to you Directly ! back in 1973 KEF  was the first loudspeaker firm in the world to implement the use of computers in loudspeaker design and measurement. The LS3/5a was the original mini monitor, inspired by KEF drivers and designed at the BBC, that transformed the audio experience in 1975. as an retired BBC  sound engineer we have had massive benefits having those monitors various applications on the other hand some of  my sound engineer colleagues & I always admired capability & purity of Mighty American made Altec monitors. not sure why you do not understand uploading Altec video on you tube ? frankly you do not have to be brain surgeon nor rocket scientist to figure it out. Here it is another  Altec video ,,,,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI0PeIfivCo&t=101s&pp=ygUcaHR0cHM6Ly95b3V0dS5iZS9iaTBwZWlmaXZjb9IHCQnHCQGHKiGM7w%3D%3D

Have fun and enjoy whatever you do .

Altecs done right.  Tri-amped Super Big Reds in furniture-grade cabinets with a one-off electronic crossover and one-off eq units for the horns.  I bought these from a recording studio that went out of business.

Yes, those are original 15 ohm Chartwell LS3/5as sitting on the floor in "10" condition.  

https://youtu.be/iGa9259pz-I

what supertweeters are you using?

@toddalin  OUTSTANDİNG .

@mdalton .Altec Model 19 s super tweeters apparently prototype of  one the 7 ever made  but never manufactured whatever the reason !  similar to 604 G Tweeter section İt has got a toggle switch 96 to 98 db sensitivity . My chief engineer back in 1974 A. İngles acquired from KDKA radio station from Pittsburgh  case made by myself painted in white to matched Model 19 speakers at back of Tweeter marked ALQ 005. also Altec model 19 manufactured in white finish 16 pairs I've been told .

Crites or something like that makes new crossovers.might check into that if you feel you need to update. I did on my voice of theater and it helped.enjoy the hunt

@mark200mph ,original N1201-8A crossover has been updated also another crossover with paper in oil caps,c-cores for bass coils and auto transformers inside the horn unit I  can use both flicking over by toggle switch.

WOTT Are remarkable speakers enjoy it.

I'm a big fan of Valencia's and own a set of heavily modified ones. They do about everything right but know going in, they need added bracing, better sound insulation, upgraded internal wiring and obviously upgraded contemporary aesthetics. They can use some added weight to deaden the cabinets too. With the right electronics though, they are truly sublime and for my listening habits are pretty terrific. Yeah, surely not for everyone but when done right, Altec Valencia are pretty special. Just my opinion

 I do not understand your defensive response.  Seems like you're looking for affirmation again.  I said that I was glad the Altecs are musically compelling to you.  That is all that matters.  I was avoiding a direct response.  But I will now provide it.  While the original model was technologically advanced for its day, I have to agree with the description of the pros and cons delineated by @br3098.  While acknowledging your model is updated, state technology has advanced beyond.  
 

Horn loaded speakers with dynamic drivers and tube electronics are an acquired taste that many prefer.  That’s ok.  While I acknowledge and hear the many benefits of horns and tubes, I prefer the overall performance of dynamic driver speakers and solid state electronics.  To each our own. 

Generally speaking, forum Agoners are:

• A community where we strive to help each other to yield better “subjective” sonic satisfaction- one size does not fit all
• We strive to be respectful of others systems and budgetary constraints.  This includes all audio gear enjoyed by members including vintage.

The question of how vintage gear competes sonically with modern offerings is common, usually means the doubt that it may not be good enough.  Therefore, we try to encourage others that if they are satisfied, that’s all that matters.  If not, then we try to help them with suggestions.

Do you Think Altec model 19 is outdated speakers ?

your opinion matters.

@sabih seems plain that you’re asking for a judgement and opinion. But when we give it, you take it as a personal attack.

Frankly I  do not need affirmation about my system…

…respectfully I  was  not asking affirmation from Agon community I  was only giving bit of flavor what an iconic speakers can do well tuned room

This was NOT clear until YOU clarified your intention that affirmation and encouragement (which is normally considered a good thing) is not want you wanted (which seems you take like an insult).

It’s great that you find your audio chain satisfying, but not so great when our community is trying to help you then receive in return defensive responses 

@sabih Wrote:

 back in 1973 KEF  was the first loudspeaker firm in the world to implement the use of computers in loudspeaker design and measurement. 

Bart Locanthi at JBL was using an analog computer in the 1960's, designing speakers and measurements see here and here!

Mike

@jsalerno277  Thank you once again your repeat of repeats ! 

You wrote to me,,,,   A-I do not understand your defensive response.  

(for every action there is always positive or negative reaction ! in fact my response was not defensive it was informative )

                                    B- Seems like you're looking for affirmation again.  

(explained clearly not seeking Affirmation to hear Agoners opinion over 60 years old Magnificent American made Altec speakers)

                           C-I said that I was glad the Altecs are musically compelling to you.

(  I'm not obsess with Altec 19s  They have pros & cons but tonal accuracy , dynamism able to deliver lower &higher frequencies non fatiguing. Altecs they were ahead of many other speaker manufacturers both domestic & pro arena .

 As a matter of fact I  have 8 pairs of speakers including modern designs, you can check it out 3 of those on you tube if any interest to you.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Nty3lkuHmQ&pp=ygURdGFubm95IHRkMTBhZDE4NjU%3D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI0PeIfivCo&pp=ygUcaHR0cHM6Ly95b3V0dS5iZS9iaTBwZWlmaXZjbw%3D%3D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YVcY09eFuI

if you could watch those videos you may understand what I was aiming in terms of taking opinion of Agoner community  Thank you once again participating.

@kennyc  Thank you participating and your unclear comments .  As if You are representing yourself  Team Leader  of Audio gone community ! we do that we do this.... etc.etc what are aiming ? are you lecturing me or suggesting me I' am in the wrong place to take opinions of other members obviously you did not watch the video if you did perhaps you would make comment about SOUND.

Only person made a well observed comment was @toddalin HATS OFF !

have fun and enjoy whatever you do.

toddalin

455 posts

07-21-2025 at 09:12pm 

Nice and clear.

A bit boxy and the peaks in the highs would have to go, at least for me.  Seems to be adding a bit of sibilance.

@ditusa . Thank you for this ! indeed he was one of the greatest Sound engineer he virtually open the door to other sound engineers to step up he was involved many areas track recording, digital audio, and the most recent use of the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN). (RIP)

@bgross , Fantastic ! Valencia are truly outstanding speakers as far as I  know 2 versions A & B . Mind you All the Altec drivers and horns are excellent products. I  have 2 pair  of 416Z + 806A I  have been patiently waiting Craftsman who build Onken cabinets for my 414-8c & 807 he is 83 years of age it took him 4 months to build Onken Cabinets for me however he said he will build Valencia cabinets for me but have to wait till autumn until he finishes other orders not many craftsman left in UK , I've uploaded video on you  Tube about Onken style cabinets check it out if you want. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI0PeIfivCo&pp=ygUcaHR0cHM6Ly95b3V0dS5iZS9iaTBwZWlmaXZjbw%3D%3D

Thank you participating and your unclear comments .  As if You are representing yourself  Team Leader…

Unclear?  Defending others makes one a team leader?

I see what’s truly going on. Your lacking in maturity- fight or flight vs working things out with others. Making excuses rather than facing criticism.  Looking through the lens of offense from others (defensiveness).   Excuses for your rude behavior.  Excuses for your unclear intentions. Prideful and selfish.  Default blaming others rather than owning your part.  Logic and reason will be trumped by emotional immaturity.  

@kennyc , you were talking about respect !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  so is that way respect forum members ? DEFENDİNG WHO ? obviously you are part of group jumping to band wagon so you trying to score a goal to get praises from them you are making very clear. THİS İS CRYSTAL CLEAR.  you  ARE DEFİNİTELY representing  people you call them defensiveness people ? please NAME them so everyone can see . İf you were Mature enough YOU  WOULD  NOT DARE DARE TO CALL ME RUDE ! SELFİSH , . PRİDEFUL ,UNCLEAR . HOW CLEARLY DESCRİBED YOURSELF Which I Thank you for it. have nice day.

Seeking respect? What a baseless, pointless, temporary and immature goal.

My motivation is Gratitude- thankful and appreciative of the Agoners help and sharing of information.  Is simply caring for others difficult to understand?

Most arguments are simply a difference of opinion vs facts, I make it a point to not get involved.  But this is not the case- you’re unwarranted attacks on others- returning good with evil.  Whipping out the fact that you’re missing limbs as if it entitles you to something like maybe the right to be abusive.

Your quick to point fingers and your refusal to take ownership at your part speaks volumes. Although we don’t like to admit when we are wrong, the mature person realizes that as a human we make mistakes.  Unfortunately you likely have your self-esteem closely/foolishly linked to your being right and wrong, so admitting any wrong/error is extremely painful and thus you use avoidance (blame shifting, excuses, focus change…), than taking responsibility.  Logic and reasoning is fruitless to an emotionally closed mind.  

I’m not trying to attack you nor am I seeking to elevate myself, but it’s painful to sit idly by while you return good intentions with abuse to our Agon community.

It’s great that you find your system satisfying, that’s what we all strive for.  It’s also good that besides our dialogue you seem to enjoy sharing your knowledge and experience.  Seems you’ve had significant life challenges, I desire for the best for you.  I’m hoping you’ll please tone it down, have more patience, and to lift/help others.  Life is hard enough without adding strife.  

@kennyc . Here we go again . You are like Dog with the bone you do not let go!  constantly repeating yourself saying that as if I'm seeking Respect ,Affirmation, attacking A.gone community and yet you dare to call me all sort of unkind words you did insult me YOU HAVE REPEATEDLY Said you are defending DEFENSELESS PEOPLE ! You are accusing me MY UNWARRANTED ATTACKS ? Would you please tell me WHO DİD I ATTACK ? WHO ARE THE DEFENSELESS PEOPLE ?  ASKED YOU PLEASE NAME THEM  SO I CAN APOLOGIZE İF I OFFEND  THEM  BUT  YOUR DİD NOT  NAME ANYBODY  NOTHİNG  NADA !!!!! YOU are FULL OF CONTRADICTION  telling  me You are helping A.Gone community  Who are you  ? experienced technician, audio designer sound engineer ,or Mr KNOW İT ALL ??????? or a HERO behind the KEYBOARD ? Please take a look at the mirror and answer it yourself. YOU DO OWE ME  a APOLOGY  But I  only accept apology from people who are genuine and factual. HUMAN MİND İT WORKS LİKE A PARACHUTE İF İT'S OPEN İT WORKS ! İF İT DOESN'T OPEN TOUGH LUCK.! have nice day.

Not old and outdated...there vintage and classic. 

@sabih Wow.  
@kennyc analysis of the post is correct and all that matters is your system is compellingly musical to you.  
@br3098 analysis of your speakers is on point. 
Recommendations:

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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/intermittent-explosive-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373926

@sabih PS. Stop referring us to YouTube  videos.

as proof your speakers are not outdated.  You cannot discern anything about sound quality from a YouTube stream.  

OP ….. my appraisal is not relevant as I am unable to listen past the real bad version of You’ve Got a Friend..

@jsalerno277 . Excellent  !Team members are stepping out, thanks for spilling the beans.

https://www.forbes.com/health/l/best-online-therapy/?kh1=Best%20Anger%20Management%20Online%20Therapy%20Sites&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=20682326287&accountid=7457773791&utm_content=162543246957&utm_term=kwd-305013001401&network=g&device=m&placement=&location_physical=9004256&device_model=&creative=699772299079&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20682326287&gbraid=0AAAAAoKcYX06zPmi76IhC-R_YKOa7pk9H

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/intermittent-explosive-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373926