Few loudspeakers have such mid-century appeal, and even fewer have the performance characteristics of the Altec 838a Carmel. This is complete, stunning restoration that considered every aspect of the design.

RESTORATIONS

Full 30-point service check
Recapped with Mundorf Evo oil caps
Rewired internally with 18-gauge silver over oxygen-free copper
Fully redesigned crossover with charge-coupled capacitors on the horn to reduce mechanical resonances and harshness
Installed L-pads to attenuate the horn volume
Installed Cardas solid copper 5-way binding posts
Cabinets meticulously refinished
Reclothed with an acoustically transparent cloth with a cane-line weave
Complete frequency sweep
Detailed

SPECS

Type Floorstanding loudspeaker (2-way, 3 Speaker system in bass reflex cabinet)

Frequency Response 30 - 22,000Hz

Sensitivity 100dB

Impedance 16Ω

Woofer 2x 414Z 12" paper cone

HF Driver 804A compression driver

Horn 811B sectoral horn

Network Custom design with charged capacitors, based on original N800F crossover points

Crossover point 800Hz

Dimensions 35"W X 30.25" X 18"D

Weight approx. 120+ lbs. ea.

LINER NOTES

The Altec 838A "Carmel" embodies the perfect balance of size, appearance, and audio quality to please the most discriminating professional user both visually and acoustically. The midrange, or presence, region of the Carmel system is particularly fine – the overall effect is of extreme naturalness. A very distinct "feeling" of the actual performance as it is being monitored through the engineer's control room or in the studio.

Altec Lansing

Vintage Altec Lansing 838A Carmel // Speakers / Custom Restoration

Altec Lansing Valencia 846 A // Vintage VOTT Horn Speakers / Cabinets Refinished / Mundorf Recap

Altec Lansing Valencia 846 A // Vintage VOTT Speakers / Refinished / New Grilles / Custom Crossovers