Altec 604E Blown Horn Diaphragm?

**bowtie427ss** · August 28th, 2009, 10:19 PM

Then send the drivers to GPA and forget about it. DONE...

In the OP's case he's dealing with a single HF element in a pair of 604E's. If the other HF diaphragm is good, and the woofer cones and coils are working properly, then the packing/shipping expense for a pair of alnico 604's both ways to GPA alone may well exceed the point of diminishing returns for him.

If the OP was able to safely unpack and load the 604's into cabinets, he can probably change a diaphragm and install new leads between the cover and diaphragm successfully.

I cannot argue that having the job done by GPA along with a thorough testing and inspection would be ideal, but in this case, especially if the 604's have been well preserved and not abused, the expense might not be warranted.

Just my .02................

**bfish** · August 29th, 2009, 10:41 AM

Originally Posted by bowtie427ss

...If the OP was able to safely unpack and load the 604's into cabinets, he can probably change a diaphragm and install new leads between the cover and diaphragm successfully....

Yep, there's no indication of need for anything else.

**chinacat** · September 1st, 2009, 12:48 PM

I'm not adverse to the idea of trying to replace the 'phragm myself. I'm a computer tape drive tech and also restored/modified a 35mm film projector for my home screening room. How much are the replacements and where'n the heck do I order them? Thanks again! John

**oface1** · September 1st, 2009, 02:29 PM

Hey chinacat,

You need to contact Bill @ GPA. Calling will net you better than emailing them.

I think diaphragms are $95.00 Ea last time I checked.

Give Bill @ GPA a call they are great to talk to.....

-chris

**Panomaniac** · September 1st, 2009, 03:32 PM

Originally Posted by chinacat

restored/modified a 35mm film projector for my home screening room.

Impressive! What kind?

If you can do that, you can change the 'phrams. =)

**chinacat** · September 1st, 2009, 03:58 PM

The 35mm is one of these:http://members.chello.nl/a.wichmann/devryxd28.jpg A ca. 1955 Devry Model XD. They were originally made for the Navy and then were sold to theaters and last a lifetime when oiled/cleaned. The above link shows one with reel arms that hold 2000ft (20 minute) reels. I converted mine to do about 90 mins of film on large reels. I also installed a 500w Xenon lamphouse and stereo solar cell. It puts out one helluva picture and puts the local multiplex theaters to shame. BluRay discs haven't caught up with 35mm quality yet (close but not yet).

**Panomaniac** · September 1st, 2009, 07:14 PM

Sweet! I have never seen one of those. Mostly I've run the typical Christie, Simplex, Cinemeccanica, Phillips and the like. Looks like you've got a nice rig there. Kudos on the upgrades. You put on 6K reels? That's the way to go.

Real home theater!

**chinacat** · September 2nd, 2009, 10:05 AM

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions. I went ahead and ordered a diaphragm and am going to attempt to install it. I don't think it's anything I can't handle. John