But there's something that should be said for what looks like a 35+ year old diaphragm that is still outperforming a newer one on paper. (Flatter Response)
OK, let's toss a BMS 4550 ND into the pot. It easily outperforms any small format Altec driver in terms of frequency response, as well as sensitivity.

Remember the group buys of the BMS drivers, and the circle of wagons singing the praises of the measured BMS superiority at one of our other favorite audio forums, when small masses were swapping out their small format Altecs for the BMS?

Now, have you noticed over time that several individuals have gone back to their 802's and 902's ultimately preferring them over the BMS? There have also been several pairs of 4550's offered for sale in the forum marketplaces.

Two main points to ponder here: a) the "better measuring" transducer is not always perceived as the "better sounding" one, and b) a difference in frequency response between two different transducers is likely only one of several differences in sonic signature.

It's not just brand loyalty that drives the Altec enthusiast, the fact they sound so good has a lot to do with it..