Altec 1592A vs 1592B and transformer Question.

**mynaemisjonas** · August 29th, 2010, 12:48 AM

I want to try to pick up two of these units and create a 10 ch stereo summing system..

Where can I read about the differences between the 1592A and B? Which one would work better for this kind of application?

Where can I buy proper Transformers? Obviously I'll need them all to be matching to get the Left and Right Mixer to sound the same.

What other parts can I expect to replace to get them both working correctly?

Also do these fit in normal 19" racks? I can't find a picture of them actually IN a rack.

- Ian

**bfish** · August 29th, 2010, 03:23 PM

Hi Ian, :welcome:

1592A
http://www.hostboard.com/forums/alte...92a-mixer.html

1592B
http://alteclansingunofficial.nlenet...xers/1592b.zip

Most common transformer options
http://www.lansingheritage.org/image...pro/page21.jpg

Ebay is the easiest source for transformers, but they can be pricey. Sometimes its cheaper to buy an obscure/unpopular piece of gear just for the xfmrs that come with it.

Expect to replace all the electrolytic caps on something that old. Otherwise it just depends on the unit. The germanium devices can be a trial to cross-reference to something you can buy now.

Yes, all Altec rack gear mounts in standard racks.

The 1592s certainly have the cool factor of the green line, and it's reflected in the price. If function is more a concern than cool, look at the newer 1692As. I got a couple of them for a $100 bill, and they were ready to use, and still in use.

**mynaemisjonas** · August 29th, 2010, 05:09 PM

I was kind of thinking of putting them in a used sterling modular plan A (the small one) mastering desk and getting other altec units and kind of building an almost console.

hehe

Thanks for the help!

**bfish** · August 29th, 2010, 07:19 PM

Understood. You're welcome.

I had that dream once (an all green Altec desk). Spent some decent $ and a whole lotta time only to realize you can do a whole lot more for a whole lot less with the newer gear, and spend more time recording and less time adapting and futzing.

I've got an Altec 3308A (2x8 stereo) rack desk mixer I don't need that looks like a perfect fit for one side of the top of that plan A desk. Couple of 1712A compressor/limiters for the loops too.