| “Both units were examined carefully, and found to be nicely working and electrically well matched. Briefly inspected for proper DCR resistance on both halves, using a calibrated VTVM (not included); they gave a correct 600 ohm reading, on IN / OUT terminals. The stepped detents are firm and precise feeling, with proper meter deflection observed thru all 20 steps on each -- thus indicating these are very low use; - it's best to lubricate and clean before final install in your project -- as it has been many years since they left the factory and have been stored many, many years -- with frequent use and occasional cleaning these will return smooth, neutral, detailed audio performance for the rest of your life.” |
Legendary Daven attenuators. This is an amazingly beautiful set of rare survivors.... in immaculate condition -- from unused Bell System, Western Electric audio equipment. Both units are a perfect match from late 1952 and 1953 -- very early with black enameled, screw down face plates..and, (2) sets of brilliant bakelite Daka Ware style knobs -- (4) total to match your project. They seem to be in near perfect condition, only a a few minor blemishes from their 60 + year age. They are exceptionally original ... most importantly a FACTORY matched pair (see exhibit E & B for numbers on the highly legible tags)! ...
Both units were examined carefully, and found to be nicely working and electrically well matched. Briefly inspected for proper DCR resistance on both halves, using a calibrated VTVM (shown in exhibit B,C,D, not included); they gave a correct 600 ohm reading, on IN / OUT terminals. The stepped detents are firm and precise feeling, with proper meter deflection observed thru all 20 steps on each, 1.5 db per step and 30 db total range -- thus indicating these are very low use; like new condition units. As removed from NOS/surplus Western Electric audio equipment from the early 1950's. As with all vintage Daven, Shallco, Cinema and Tech Labs precision attentuators -- it's best to lubricate/clean to avoid any jumps before final install into your project (Daven controls are easily serviceable at anytime, even in-service by simply removing the rear cover, an unique feature of 1950s style commercial controls). It has been many years since they left the factory and have been stored many, many years -- with frequent use and occasional cleaning these will return smooth, detailed audio performance to enjoy the rest of your life.
Beginning in the 1930's, Daven assumed market leadership of wire wound and stepped audio controls. By the 1940's -- even Western Electric and the Bell System usually chose Daven for attenuators and potentiometers -- to use in their long run audio, recording and amplification attenuation needs. Daven constructed their products to be used day in and day out -- with and superior lifespan -- they were the finest sounding too. Rediscovered in the DiY audiophile community in Japan nearly 40 years ago -- by now the country has been scoured for these fine audio controls. Matched, minty units like this are very scarce.
Perfect for DiY preamp, amp, phono and even useful for loudspeaker projects. Any where you need the best, 1950's immaculate construction quality (see exhibit B to see have fine the internals are).
Research your project and see if these fit your bill (see specs in exhibit G), double check your mounting dimensions and resistance, and attentuation needs -- if these will work for your next audio project -- or perhaps an upgrade in your system -- jump on them now. Experienced audiophiles know how nice these are and they will sell very quickly.
This is an examined, matched & tested MINT set. They will be professionally packed for safe domestic or international shipment. Please see our 100%, 5 star feedback on all premium vintage audio.
Study exhibit (B) to see an actual unit(s) under test -- very nice, smooth action! This nice pair will sell QUICKLY. Buy now to avoid bidder's war.
See reports (Exhibit A,C,D,E). These are the real McCoy.
From the early days of Broadcast recording audio -- designed for the highest quality, heaviest use, and most demanding precision. Daven attenuators and pots were extremely expensive -- the highest quality construction found ever in worewound precision audio controls.
Originally in broad use in the USA from the 1940s onward, found in early cinema, broadcast radio, recording and the Bell System (Western Electric), and other industrial audio companies of the era (Langevin, Gates, Collins and RCA to name a few). Now preferred, and adored in ultra high end late 40-1960s era home hifi installtions & sytems. Where they performed wonderfully for controling line level audio in certain places (depending on your needs).
The most throughly tested and nicest condition you will see anywhere, and will sell quickly.
Excellent for projects where finest audio quality and a hefty tactile feel is desired.
All 100% happy customers, Guaranteed SAFE ARRIVAL, NO DOA -- please view feedback for testimonials of happy customers.
Professional 5 star packing. We always double box in hardboard, securely fastened, inner boxes and safest cushioning. Fast overseas dispatch with tracking #s emailed..always!
