Hi guys,
I was wondering how many people have compared the Altec 416-8a to the Altec 416-8z.
I've currently got two pair of Altec Valencia's. Complete with Altec cabinets, crossover and drivers. Both speakers were bought as Altec speakers and were owned by the original owners.
The newest of the pair are actually in pretty good shape. They even still have the foam inserts around the horn. But, both of the foam grills have had the foam replaced with grill cloth (due to rot)
The new Valencia speakers actually sound quite different from the other pair. One set uses the old frame 416-8z's, while the other set uses the newer cast frame 416-8a's.
I understand that these are pretty much different frames...and the Z doesn't have the magnet cover...but I expected them to be fairly close in a direct sound comparison...but they don't
(both seem to be in good physical and mechanical condition)
I've read in many archives that the 416-8a and the 416-8z are supposed to be the same speaker (with exception of the magnet cover), but after listening to both of them...I can't imagine them even being comparable.
If these speakers are in fact supposed to be the same (or have the same sound)...could there be other reasons they may sound different?
Could one pair need the Alnico magnet recharged?
any ideas or suggestions welcome!
thanks,
dan
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