Quad 57s are one of the few vintage speakers that I think is still relevant and competitive. Keep in mind that chances are good that you will need the 57s redone if they are untouched after purchase.. With few exceptions, speakers are much better today than in the past. I have no interest in horns and little knowledge so I cant comment on the old compression drivers and the like.
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
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@holmz I'm using the word 'speakers' in general terms. From my limited understanding, the crossovers used today are different, as are the woofers and tweeters. I believe the drivers on the Electrovoice speakers weighed about fifty pounds each. They only need one watt per 90 decibels of power. There are people who are restoring them and doing modifications but it seems like more of a novelty than anything. |
@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 the various materials available today especially. |
- 12 posts total