802-8D .. What diaphrapm to use?

[Greg R.]

Hi folks, could use some suggestions..I have 511 horn with 802-8D drivers , 1976 vintage.I think the diaphrams need replacement. pretty old.. What to use and where to get? This is for my home stereo. thanks , greg

[Steve Burger]

Your best bet is to send them to Bill at Great Plains Audio. You basically have two options: One is an original aluminum diaphragm (802/902), the other is the pascalite diaphragm used in the 909. Some claim that for home hifi use the aluminum is slightly superior, others say there is no discernable difference. I have only heard the difference in the 902 compared to the 909 and they both sounded superb and I could not say one sounded better over the other. I have not heard the pascalite in the older alnico 802 but would guess it would work well. Ask Bill before deciding. The advantage to the pascalite is considerably higher power handling capacity.

[Steve Burger]

I forgot to add that sending it to Bill has a few other advantages. One he will re-magnetize the drivers which can be critical since over time their can be deterioration. Another is that if they need to be centered he can take care of that as well.

[Greg R.]

Thank You . I'll give that a try . Greg