351B & 1611A research futility.

**Mazeppa** · May 27th, 2011, 10:57 PM

I'm not coming up with much for these two items. The Altec website doesn't show me an option to research archives for documentation on vintage equipment, perhaps it's there and I'm not seeing it?

These have been in storage many years. My cousin inherited them from his father who operated, installed and repaired theater equipment from the early 50's to the late 70's. I've taken on the task of trying to get them in working order for him to use as home stereo. All I've done so far is some cleaning as I'd really like to know more about them in particular, and more about safely energizing equipment of such obvious vintage for the first time.

This is my first experience with Altec equipment. The 351B is the first solid state amp Ive seen that is wired point to point. All components with a "Made In" label say "USA", so apparently the 351B was a very early solid state amp. The 1611A Mixer/Amplifier seems a little more contemporary, but certainly no spring chicken, either.

Both appear to be transformer coupled, and to have transformer isolated inputs as well. Cases are of aluminum with steel sub frames. Very interesting, and they just reek of high quality.

I've taken some so-so quality photos that can be seen here:

Altec 351B pictures by Mazeppa_photos - Photobucket

Altec 1611A pictures by Mazeppa_photos - Photobucket

I'd really appreciate any insight, advice, links to info sites that y'all think think might
help me on my quest to get these Altecs singing once again.

**Old Guy** · May 28th, 2011, 09:18 AM

They date from around 1963 or so.

Have you tried Iratech? Probably your only hope.....

**tomt** · May 28th, 2011, 02:54 PM

i've heard the the 351, was the first solid state altec amp.

i've got one, altho i have yet to get it to function properly.

**Mazeppa** · May 28th, 2011, 03:48 PM

Originally Posted by tomt

i've heard the the 351, was the first solid state altec amp.

i've got one, altho i have yet to get it to function properly.

I would be most interested in a summary of your efforts w/the 351.

**Mazeppa** · May 28th, 2011, 03:45 PM

Originally Posted by Old Guy

They date from around 1963 or so.

Have you tried Iratech? Probably your only hope.....

Ah, with Great Plains Audio I see. Thanks for the tip.

If only I lived wtihin a reasonable drive of OKC, I'd have them over to Ira in a heartbeat for testing. Lotta iron in these things, shipping would get too far into the pocketbook I'm afraid.