Back to mono?

Onhwy61, thanks so much for your considered opinion. Very fun rig there. I really hadn't considered running a mono system as well as the stereo system, but it really wouldn't be a problem for me so the advice is greatly appreciated.

I am in the process of replinthing a Russco Cue-Master turntable so that I can play 78s and mono records, and maybe even some of my Edison Diamond Discs, each with the appropriate, dedicated, cartridge, so I hope to get a mono preamp with alternate EQ to just RIAA. But I don't have any of the rest of the gear that I might need...yet.

I would suggest a single Altec 605 in OB or vented cabl like 612 or 620 (604's too!). The 605's if I am not mistaken is a combo of 515 and 802 mated together while the 604's are 416 and 806, which are two of the best driver's Altec ever produced. At around 100+ dB, you will not have a problem looking for amps to drive it to its full potential.

I run 604's in OB, or a 414 with 802D in OB for mono once in a while and I really enjoy how it sound. Use the old RCA phono circuit design (RIAA) with single ended amp (SET or Pentode strapped as triode)and you are set. I prefer using a mono cart like the Denon 102 and I avoid stereo cart converted to mono and stereo preamp switched to mono by combining the two channels. Enjoy!

Hi Viridian - a friend of mine has a single Klipschorn that he uses for mono listening, driven by an SET that puts out just 1/2 a watt (don't remember the make of the amp, sorry). It sounds fantastic. He also has a Garrard 301 that he uses with a mono cartridge. This simple set-up, in a nice room for it, blows away a great many stereo set-ups I have heard. He has been record collecting for decades and has a great many mono LPs from the great Blue Note years, and RCA and Mercury, etc. Don't have a mono set up myself, but his system makes me want the capability eventually.

Thanks to all who gave guidance both on board and those that contacted me directly. I love the Altec speakers and that would be great.

Funny enough, I grew up in New York City. My dad had a single Klipshorn and Scott gear with a basic Garrard table. Funny how some things come full circle every half century or so.

Unfortunately, I don't have a usable corner in my listening room, or my home office, which is where I will end up, as Onhwy61s idea of having a second system seems good council. And since I use older Cornwalls in my main rig, I would like something different, so Altec or even an Electro Voice Patrician, or perhaps a Bozak might be interesting alternatives.