Score! Obtaining the Unobtanium!

[Earl K]

Hey Todd,

I can understand your attraction to these older approaches .

I'd suggest ( before it's too late ) that you try integrating some Altec 288-8K drivers into your system .

Every observation you make about the le85 applies to the Altec 288 ( but in spades ) .

Replacement diaphragms ( at only $100.00 new from GPA ) makes the investment ( mostly ) a no-brainer ( centering the 288 diaphragm can be a challenge ) .

Most new users of any Altec 288 ( coming from the JBL world ) will want to bring along their favourite tweeter ( because the 288 has such a calm, tenor-like, natural-quality to it's voice ).

cheers <> Earl

[Steve Schell]

To me the diaphragm to beat is still the 1930s/40s Lansing 801. Aluminum (probably 2 mil) spun diaphragm, half roll compliance (no tangents) with round aluminum wire voice coil. Horribly rare now with little opportunity to audition. Probably not quite as extended as these modern jobs, but oh what a natural sound!