JSP

Thanks for the explanation; if one is really pushing the system with high volume (I would consider running my speakers at that power level extremely high since they are very efficient) then you would only be pushing less than 4 amps. If that is the case, then what is the needed wire gauge for stranded copper speaker wire? I run my power tools; many draw 15 amps on 12 ga. copper in my shop with no problem. Of course that is AC not DC - perhaps that is a factor in this calculation? I guess what I'm getting at is what size speaker wire is really needed to carry the load to the speakers? I am using16 ga copper at the present time and it seems just fine. I see folks selling big monster type cables for big bucks all the time and question the necessity of such large cables and the often over hyped advertising BS. What is your opinion? JSP

ok, so how much at high volume? jsp

I wish I had two to try them in corners - when I find another one, they will be in my den or office. If I can't find a second aristocrat, I my have to build one. JSP

yea, that is the way I went, the HT runs with Altecs L,Ct, R with Cornwalls in back. 2ch runs the altecs, I use a Russound SDB 4.1 switch box w/2 amp input selector to control speaker selection. It works for me. JSP

I recently picked up an EV Aristocrat (one only-dam!) at a garage sale. Didn't know what I got until I got it home and opened it up. Wow! It is a three way with 12" woofer, mid horn and tweeter. It sounds great, compared it to my Cornwalls and Altecs it has excellent mid range and tight bass to about 40hz, and while I won't give up the big boys, the Aristocrat is a very fine unit and has excellent corner reflection. Don't know what the efficiency is, but would guess it is around 100 1w/1m. I am in the market for another aristocrat, if anyone has a lead on one, let me know! thanks JSP

I have a very nice pair of Cornwall II's that are all orginal, I am thinking that I may want to build new xo's for them, would any one knowledegable on the design question like to suggest a proper design? 1. Should I simply replace to caps with new of the same value? If so, what type (oil,foil, etc?) and brands? 2. Should I build new from scrach (my first thought), if so a schematic or design plan is what I need. I have built xo's before and it is within my scope of ability, just need a proven plan the works well for the Cornwall II. BTW, they still sound great, the only mod I have done is to put some damping matterial on the exterior of the horns, (reduced ringing at high volume) and refinish the cabinets with watco and tunge oil. JSP

perhaps we need a 12 step program for our self help! I first cought this afflication many years ago, and have been suffering continiously ever since - it all started with the ESS AMT "sound as clear as light". Super clean highs. Things were fine for many years, until I picked up a pair of KG4's at a garage sale, the decent into horn heavan/hell has been an obsessioin ever since, from there I determined a bigger hit was needed and decended into the Cornwall underworld. That dose seemed to hold my craving for horn nirvana for awhile...untill that fatefull day at a garage sale when the altec struck...since then I have been a hopeless lost sole... now the horns from altec have taken over my HT with 806/811's 416's left, right and center. Will I ever transend this neverending need for more an more dBs? [:$]

Sounds like the amp is cutting out due to overload - built in protection against overload. Suggest you borrow a solid amp and push the speakers, I'll bet there is nothing wrong with the speakers. JP

I have been toying with the idea building some risers for my larger speakers, Cornwalls and Altes. Not sure if the effort is worth the result? Can anyone who has built or used them tell me what the effect is? How tall should I build them if I decide to go that route? Thanks for you input! JSP

Can you guys give me your opinions on the sound of the Belle vs the Cornwall? Have the CW and am considering the Belle. Do they sound the same, does on or the other dig lower base? Thanks

Electricity travels fast (186,000 miles per second). If you traveled that fast, you could travel around the world eight times in the time it takes to turn on a light! And if you had a lamp on the moon wired to a switch in your bedroom, it would take only 1.26 seconds after you flipped the switch for electricity to light the lamp 238,857 miles away! http://www.pge.com/microsite/safety_esw_ngsw/esw/science/basics.html

Electricity travels fast (186,000 miles per second). If you traveled that fast, you could travel around the world eight times in the time it takes to turn on a light! And if you had a lamp on the moon wired to a switch in your bedroom, it would take only 1.26 seconds after you flipped the switch for electricity to light the lamp 238,857 miles away! http://www.pge.com/microsite/safety_esw_ngsw/esw/science/basics.html

Well...I guess I am laboring under a different set of basic premises. The purpose of the speaker wire is to simply transmit the signal from the amp to the speaker in the most unaltered and pure form. To do this, you cannot improve upon basic stranded copper wire. If it is your desire to manipulate the signal you can use the tone controls on your amplifier; adjust your xo design in the speakers or add an EQ if you think that will improve your sonic end product. Stray capacitance in speaker wire (undamaged), or resistance, (in lengths used in home audio) is not measurable - at least not by a standard multi meter. I guess, again, I am laboring under the belief that if it is not measurable by scientific instrumentation, the likelihood of any perceived audible sonic difference is in the in the mind of the listener, not in the physical properties of the sound waves emitted by the speakers.

what's to be confused about... the speed of light is the speed at which electorns move through a copper wire.

Hi, I am not impressed with all the hype and BS around speaker wire and cables. I have used the copper stranded wire sold at home depot with fine results. I went for 14 ga on my last project, one could go 12 ga if your want to spend more. The basic laws of science are not altered by monsterous claims. As to the length of wire discussions, I defy anyone to show that a few feet of lenght one way or the other would impact sonic quality given that the speed of light remains constant.

I am working on (refurbishing) a technics SL 1650 TT that looks to have been in a household of smokers. The base is kinda dirty, darkened, discolored, around the edges. My guess is that is is tabacco smole residue. I've tried simple green, window cleaner and alcohol without really any impact. The plastic top is spotless - go figure? What should I use to clean the base with, I don't want to damage it or remove the original finish. Thanks for your suggestions.

I have a pair of Cornwall I that I believe to be all original. Since they are about twenty five years old, I am thinking that the crossovers could stand to be recaped or upgraded to new design. If I opt for just recaping, what values and type/brand of caps are recommended? I see that the prices of caps range for only a couple of bucks each to very pricey. Can one really hear a better sound clarity with high priced caps or is it just marketing hype? If I opt for new xovers what are the recommended design xover points and slope? Since I am a rookie in this area I'm looking for good advise from guys who know what they are talking about! Thanks in advance for your comments! JSP

I just bought a (sorry, only one available) Altec Lansing speaker at a garage sale. It is tagged on the back "Iconic" Measures 27"wx19"dx28"w. Cabinet is beat up but repairable. What is it worth? Inside it has a Altec Lansing horn 806A and a 15" woofer 416-Z. Front grill is a funkey scrolled type grill. It really sounds great and (at the risk of being flamed here) is in the class of my Cornwalls IMO. Don't know where to find another but need to know what to look for. Any info from those who know the Altec line is appreciated. JP

I recently got a nice pair of cornwalls and they sound great! Only problem is that the previous owner allowed a candle to drip wax on the cloth grill of one. How can I clean it without harming the cloth? Thanks! JP

asking $295 - the price is somewhat negotiable - these are really nice looking speakers and sound great!

I have a very nice pair of KG4's for sale in the Houston area. The cabinets have been professionally refinished and the look like new and sound great too. Have the original boxes and papers on them also. Anyone interested drop me an e-mail. catbert242000@yahoo.com JP

Thanks for all your suggestions! I went for the cornwalls - they are outstanding!! I don't need the sub anymore! I am really enjoying the sound and they really opened up the two channel for me. Perhaps I will look for some Belles to add to the system. JP

I have seen some very nice examples of speakers that have been veneered and they looked great. While I am a woodworker, I have not personally attempted the veneer thing, but it doesn't look too difficult. You would need to fill all depressions first with wood filler and sand flush. The veneer is attached with contact cement. Instructions available on line. All depends on your comfort level with the project. I think you can get veneer that is anywhere from 1/10th to 1/6th inch thick, and various woods are available. Do a little research, you may decide to go for it. If you do, be sure to post photos of the project for us, you may inspire some of us to new heights! check some of the wood worker vendors for supplies e.g. http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx?familyid=8659 JP

They will be the front speakers for my HT. I do have a sub. however, I listen to alot of music (jazz, rock, classical) in 2 channel also. marantz SR7200 5.1 marantz 2238b 2 channel rear KG4 center infinity

I need your opinion on this topic again. I have narrowed my selection for a pair of Klipsch speakers to either Cornwalls or La Scallas. The cost will be about equal when I add the extra to travel for the Cornwalls. I will not be able to compare the two speaker types so I must rely on those who are familiar with the line. You suggestions are appreciated! Thanks JP