Altec Lansing 421

[jacotosh]

I'm looking at getting a 2X15 cab that is loaded with some of these speakers. I've never heard any personally and was wondering what your guy's thoughts were on these. How do they compare to say a JBL D140f?
Are they efficient?

Thanks for any input.

 

[billfitzmaurice]

They are very efficient and IMO sound a lot better than JBLs. But they won't take more 75 to 100 watts each, depending on vintage, so I would only use them with a 200 watt or less amp.

 

[Jim C]

+1
Have a pair in an old Peavy cabinet; excellent tone

 

[4Mal]

Great tone - extremely fragile. One of the original Altec engineers is making parts available. Not cheap, but available. Treat 'em gently as there is a real narrow difference between just enough and too much with those.

 

[B-string]

Have 5 of them still, perfer them over JBLs for the last 30+ years!

 

[Oren Hudson]

One of my projects calls for 2 Altec 421As and another calls for 2 JBL D140Fs. I've recently been comparing one of each in the same cab with the same 55 watt tube head, both individually, and together. While both have great tones, at this point, I would agree with Bill F. The Altec seems to have a little more fullness and depth. A second Altec that I've recently acquired is in need of rebuilding. Although my local speaker guy can to a great job for a reasonable price, I have recently discovered, through TB and the Lansing forum, a place that has Altec work history and parts, and have been highly recommended by several. Link Removed is the place. I spoke with them Friday and they assured me that they had all of the correct Altec stuff and would do a complete rebuild, including discharging/recharging the magnet, for about $120.00. This also includes the 3 inch aluminum dust cover, something that I've discovered to not be as easily obtained as the 4 inch JBL cap. So....I'm going to send them the one that needs rebuilding, and if you're interested, I'll give you my opinions when I get it back.

 

[B-string]

Would like to hear your report!

 

[JimmyM]

Me too!

 

[Jim C]

I don't think I can get an EV reconed for that around here; great price for a botique kit.