Altec 436C style compressor build #2

I’ve serviced and modified many Altec 43X-series compressors over the years, but I think this may be only the 2nd one I’ve built entirely from scratch. Styled more like a Federal AM864, this unit incorporates many of the tweaks and modifications that I have come to like in these machines. Here are some images of the build.

Couple of things to point out in the photo above. Note the larger “Octal” tubes (6X5 rectifier and 6SN7 output amplifier) on the left side. I like octal tubes, as the larger sockets are easier to work with, so space-permitting I tend to use them. The original 43X used a solid-sate rectifier (with a voltage doubler) but I used a more conventional full-wave supply with a rectifier tube since it suited the look better. The 6SN7 output tube was a nice choice as there are so many variations of this tube available. It’s a direct sub for the 6CG7 in the original Altec.

Also note: behind the meter is a ‘meter null adjust’ pot. I can’t recall how this was handled on the original Altecs, but this mod is a common one shown on many internet schematics of the 436. Also note the large pot to the left of the meter. This is the Gates Sta Level output trim control (-6 to -14db cut) that I detailed on this site years ago. A worthy and necessary addition!

You can also see the enormous output transformer in the center: a massive potted unit built for Daven, likely by UTC. originally built for hi-end test gear, it is ultra hi fi and handles more level than this thing will ever see.

Above: some detail of the meter. I was motivated to build this thing solely because I found that original Altec panel meter at a hamfest for a buck. Seemed like it needed a 2nd life… Also check out that finish on the panel! That’s about 6 layers of paint and 3 layers of clearcoat, sanded between each coat. The knobs are all NOS 1960s DakaWare, acquired from Park Distributors in BPT CT (RIP).

Above: the UTC A18 input transformer, which has similar specs / ratio to the Peerless plug-in unit that an original Altec would have been outfitted with.

Above: the completed unit on the bench. The input pot is a really nice dual-gang 50K 1-watt sealed unit; I got several of these from Park before they closed. I cant imagine that any pot like this is available today for under $50. Good find. Running the length of the unit to the immediate right of the turret board is the heavy copper ground buss. Every ground in the machine connects here, and only here, and the ground buss meets the chassis at only one spot – the input jack. I swear by this construction technique. I’ve rewired a lot of old cheap tube guitar amps with this addition and the improvement in noise floor is remarkable.