[AR-11 midrange speakers wanted]

Hunting for an original pair (or even 1) of midrange speakers for AR-11. 

[New Mid Range replacement]

1 hour ago, RoyC said:

I believe Aadams has providd the best answer(s), so I will just add some thoughts.

Based on my experience with "Vintage_AR" and my own work, the market for the original, non-semi-horn version appears to be much greater. Quite frankly, there really doesn't seem to be much demand for the later AR-9xx version. I'm sure it has to do with the popularity of each model and the era of manufacture. The AR-9 series and the 58 may be popular in some circles, but the "classic" earlier models are where most of the parts are going. 

The last iteration of the AR-3 was equipped with the 3a type of mid. (This mid can also be used in earlier 3's.) The back-wired version used in later 3a's and AR-11 can also be converted for the earlier front-wired models. The AR-9xx/58 "semi-horn" version of the mid simply does not work very well with the dispersion and tonal characteristics of earlier AR models, unless the ring is removed. We have actually removed the rings from more than a few of the later style mids for AR-3a restorations in the past few years

Midwest's replacement AR-11 style tweeter with its fully exposed dome works well as a decent replacement for the semi-recessed dome of the AR-9 series, and I believe an AR-3a/11 style bare-dome mid could also work reasonably well, especially if the original plastic semi-horn ring is re-used.

I noticed mention of the Simply Speakers replacement mid. It isn't bad in a pinch if used in pairs, but the dome and magnet are a bit smaller. It is somewhat less sensitive than the original and has higher Fs, probably making it more suitable for later AR models. I seem to recall the rear terminals being positioned differently, requiring some minor cabinet hole modification. The rings and metal screens of the original AR mids do not fit on these mids.

Roy

Thanks for that information Roy, especially about the rings and screens from the AR-11 not being able to fit on the simply speakers midrange replacement. 

Are AR-11 midrange speakers repairable? One of mine has started to distort and become quite muted compared to the other. I live in New Zealand so AR spares is non existent here sadly, and ebay charges a fortune to ship to here (sometimes more than the brought item!) 

Cheers! 

[New Mid Range replacement]

8 hours ago, DavidR said:

Some of the earlier mids can be repaired I believe. Those with more knowledge, Like RoyC, would know. I know of no one who has repaired a Series 9 mid: p/n 200028 and 200032.

Thanks for the reply David. Much appreciated 👍

 

[New Mid Range replacement]

5 hours ago, DavidR said:

Buzzing, muted sound, distortion are a few symptoms

Heya David,

One of my midrange speakers on my AR-11 just started doing this the other day. Can this be repaired? Or do I need to start the hunt for a replacement? (probably two I'm guessing) 

Cheers.

[Original AR-11 crossover diagnostic help]

Very informative discussion for people, like me, jumping into a AR-11 restoration... Thanks 👍👌