[Overview]
This pair is an early-model studio monitor system manufactured by ALTEC around 1945, featuring the extremely rare 1-1/8-inch-thick Douglas fir plywood construction.
Finished in black, these early cabinets are distinguished by their characteristic vintage nailed construction.
Historically, these black cabinets are believed to have been among the very first models, essentially produced as prototypes. They were constructed using exceptionally thick 1-1/8-inch (28 mm) Douglas fir plywood, compared with the standard 3/4-inch (19 mm) plywood normally used, making them extremely rare.
Following this model, ALTEC introduced a lighter black cabinet constructed from 3/4-inch Douglas fir plywood.
This is a rare predecessor to the later ALTEC 612, commonly known by the nickname “Silver Box.”
The 612 was one of ALTEC’s well-known 61X-series systems, affectionately referred to as the “Silver Box.” Alongside models such as the 612A, 618A, 620A, and A7, it became one of ALTEC’s representative speaker systems.
The 612 was designed primarily for professional applications and was widely installed in recording studios and theaters.
Despite their age, both the exterior and interior of these cabinets remain in very good condition.
We have included numerous photographs so that you can carefully evaluate their cosmetic condition. Please review the photos when considering this item.
These cabinets allow you to enjoy the performance of 15-inch ALTEC drivers.
The installed drivers are related to ALTEC’s famous 604-series “DUPLEX” coaxial two-way loudspeakers.
Unlike the DUPLEX models, however, these particular units are not two-way speakers but full-range drivers.
They belong to the same “Diacone” series as the earlier 600B and are the 15-inch model known as the 603B.
When viewed directly from the front, you can see the silver-colored aluminum center dome shining from behind the horn.
Unlike the multicellular horn used in the DUPLEX models, the centrally mounted horn in the 603B functions as a diffuser.
According to the familiar ALTEC reference published in the Stereo Sound special edition, the original 603—the predecessor of the 603B—was introduced in 1947.
The following year, in 1948, the 603B was introduced together with the 600B.
This is the kind of powerful, punchy sound that truly represents ALTEC.
The frequency response is smooth throughout the range, producing a natural and straightforward presentation regardless of the era of the source material.
Just as its substantial appearance suggests, the system delivers excellent dynamics and evokes the character and scale of ALTEC’s legendary large-format theater systems.
[Specifications]
Dimensions (each): W645 × H750 × D455 mm
Weight (each): Approx. 40 kg
Total volumetric weight after packing: Approx. 120 kg
Despite their vintage age, both the exterior and interior of the enclosures remain in very good condition.
As can be seen in the photographs, the cabinets are exceptionally clean and well preserved.
