Horn based loudspeakers why the controversy?

Did the classic Altec A7 811 horns from 1970 have phase plugs? I thought the "Tangerine" thing was later but I'm now not sure..

Compression drivers of all types, from what I remember, had a phase plug. The Tangerine came later, (mid 70's) first used in the Altec Model 19. The phase plug was needed to make the compression driver work properly. I don't know the mechanical or electrical reasons why. I think Altec came out with the Tangerine because one of the chief complaints about these drivers was a lack of HF extension. I remember my home pair of A-7's having more of a "whoooshhh" sound  on cymbals rather than the nice extended "crash" sound a cymbal has when struck with a stick or mallet. This was much improved with the Model 19. IMHO

My Airpulse Model one speakers have a horn loaded ribbon tweeter which I find to be very extended and detailed. Not a true horn but an interesting implementation nonetheless which sounds verg good to these ears

{Edgar Villchur started the controversy}  Do agree that sellers of early AS stereo designs had to talk owners into buying 2 new speakers and getting rid of those old RCA Altec JBL Lowther WE horns. Wonder whats more usable and valuable today the old horns or those early AS designs?

My Tannoy dual concentric horn loaded tweeters just died after a particularly loud POP on a vinyl disc.
Not sure if I am going to keep pursing horns.