[Overview]
This is an RCA 64B Olson labyrinth-type speaker cabinet system, originally released by RCA in the early 1940s.
Dr. Harry F. Olson is regarded as one of the most successful audio researchers of this period. Among his best-known achievements at RCA was the development of ribbon microphones, including the Model 44, introduced in 1932, and the Model 77, introduced in 1936. Both became legendary microphones that remain in use to this day.
The Model 44, in particular, offered an impressive frequency response of 50 Hz to 15 kHz. Its ability to capture extremely delicate sound details was revolutionary for its time and represented a major turning point in audio technology during the 1930s. It also became one of the most widely used microphones for radio broadcasting and recording.
Another unique area of Olson’s work was his research into loudspeaker systems.
Although the LC-1A monitor speaker from the “Living Stereo” era is especially well known, Olson had already developed the RCA 64-B “Olson Cabinet” before that time. Released in 1939 and originally equipped with the MI-4400 speaker unit, it featured a labyrinth-type acoustic enclosure.
As its name suggests, the interior of the cabinet is constructed like a maze. The system was designed to achieve flat frequency reproduction from a single 8-inch full-range driver, producing performance that helped mark the beginning of the Hi-Fi era.
These speaker systems were widely introduced into radio broadcasting stations.
In addition to being exceptionally rare due to the limited number originally produced, this is also a model of significant historical importance.
[Driver Specifications]
ALTEC / 401-B: 8-inch full-range driver, 8Ω
[Enclosure Specifications]
Dimensions per cabinet:
Width 720 mm × Height 835 mm × Depth 370 / 420 mm including grille
Weight per cabinet:
28.5 kg
Despite their age, the cabinets remain in exceptionally clean condition, as can be seen in the photographs.
