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Vintage versus New

Hi,

I recently had the chance to hear two vintage speakers, Quad 57's serial number 15,000 + and Electrovoice Aristocrats. I was already familiar with the 57's but hearing the Aristocrats was a new experience and despite using a cheap amplifier, they sounded good. These speakers can be found and the prices are good but I'm not completely sure if vintage speakers are a wise choice.

I suppose what sparks my interest is that a friend of mine had a pair of cast Western Electric horns from a pair of theater speakers and sold them to a buyer in Japan for good money. Are there vintage speakers that compete with some of the better speakers being made today?  Does today's technology make these vintage speakers obsolete? Can vintage speakers be modified and if so, how? In general, what are your thoughts?

Much Appreciated

 

goofyfoot
goofyfoot OP
1,357 posts
 

@audition__audio yeah, I really like the 57's a lot but they are too lacking in bass. If I had 57's, I'd want to create a stack.

mofojo
2,285 posts
 

Don’t know anything about quads but the biggest difference I hear from vintage or even 20 years ago from today are the highs (tweeters).  

goofyfoot OP
1,357 posts
 

@mofojo the various materials available today especially.

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

I am holding onto my collection of vintage Altec and JBL speakers. Their value will increase over time! Present day new speakers hold no attraction for me! I also have Infinity 2000A's, KLH Nines, Janszen ESL tweeters and two pairs of Quad 57's.

goofyfoot OP
1,357 posts
 

@jasonbourne52 many of these manufacturers no longer make high end speakers so yes, there value should increase. Besides the 57's which ones do you prefer?

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