Model 14's vs. 15's

[v847]

I wonder if anyone could elaborate the differences between these two models?

Why did they switch??

Thanks,
V

[MikeInNH]

Originally posted by v847:
I wonder if anyone could elaborate the differences between these two models?

Why did they switch??

Thanks,
V

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Lets start with looks....The 14 looks like a smaller version of the 19...I always thought the 19 was sharp looking. The 15's are just a box abou the size of the 14's bottom box.

As for components. Woofers are the same (at least compared to the later model 15's. The earlier versions used a stamped steel version of the woofer, while the later versions used a cast aluminum version. Cross-overs I think are pretty much identical. The 15's use a 802-8G driver with the 31B curved radial horn. The 14's use a 902 driver with a MR931-12 mantaray horn.

I have NOT done any side by side comparisons, but I suspect the 14's do a better job in the upper frequencies with larger off-axis sweet spot. I don't think Altec would have dropped the 15's if the 14's weren't better.

I rebuilt my 15's using the same components, but a taller skinnier cabinet. I've always thought about switching the horn to the MR931-12. Not sure if it would be worth switching.

I'd like to hear if any one has ever done a side by side comparison.

[Jim Butler]

I too have wondered what the sonic differences beween the Model 15 and 14 are. If anyone has done a comparison it would be great to hear about it.
JIm Butler