How good is the Altec 511B horn compared to todays tweeters

Anyhow, I'll agree with Old Guy that choice of horn type / HF driver is a personal preference or - for a manufacturer - an application dictated by swings and roundabouts... that is, finding a balance of attributes that fits the matter at hand.

I had a set of 802/511Bs + 515B in 825 cabinets during the 1980s and they certainly sufficed at the time -- the 511s were quite pleasing on-axis so I understand why they're still sought.

BobR

I agree with that. I assumed by "tweeter" the OP meant the upper half of a 2-way system; but if it's really just a tweeter he's looking for, there are better choices than a 511.

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Originally Posted by Alien_Shore

I am no expert, but agree with GM.
The 511 horn isn't a 'tweeter' by a long shot. Coupled with a compression driver capable of handling the 500-800 Hz range, and you'll hear the difference. There is so much richness of sound in those low-mids up to high-range that just sounds fantastic.

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Originally Posted by joyspring

A 1 inch compression driver has a mass-induced -6 dB/octave drop above 3 kHz.

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Which would put it down between about -11 & -22 dB in the top octave. Or about as efficient as a good dome. But don't forget, down low it's still much more efficient than the dome. That's where the energy is and were it should be used.
A great tweeter it would not be, but a great extended mid-range, it is.

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Originally Posted by Old Guy

What's the best car? depends on your driving habits, budget, taste, and the roads you drive on... Whats the best tweeter? Depends on your listening habits, budget taste, and the room it's in.

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The room for sure ...and for some reason sometimes tuesdays sound better than thursdays......I know that sounds weird but .......