ot: Acoustic Model 9901 speakers - scam?

[WeAreAs1 at aol.com]

In a message dated 1/8/01 10:45:16 AM, goddard.duncan at mtvne.com writes:

<< that name used to be associated with some quality backline products; over 
here, they were more sought after for bass rigs than ampeg or sunn, while 
they did a fair trade in guitar amps and p.a. too. 
are the speakers you're being offered for p.a. or domestic hi-fi? >>

Yes, the Acoustic name was very famous for very robust bass & guitar amps and 
PA equipment.  The company was actually called "Acoustic Controls, Inc."  
However, the Acoustic hi-fi speakers that Martin has been offered were not 
made by the same Acoustic company.  The hi-fi (using the term "hi-fi" very, 
very, very loosely here...) "Acoustic" company uses that name in hope that 
customers may think they are buying a product from the former, more famous 
Acoustic Controls company (which, unfortunately, went out of business in the 
late 1970's).  

This brings to mind another company that used the same sneaky ruse.  Back in 
the 1970's, there was a company named Phase Linear, who made a highly 
respected line of power amplifiers and other hi-fi equipment.  Their amps 
were used by many of the world's top studios and sound reinforcement 
companies.  They too went out of business in the mid-1980's.  But even before 
they went out of business, another company popped up, making very crappy 
hi-fi equipment, calling themselves "Linear Phase".  Ouch!  That's like 
calling your synthesizer start-up "Circuits Sequential".

Michael Bacich

P.S. - Martin, don't buy those speakers.  Here in the states, people who are 
wise call them "van speakers".  I am actually surprised that the seller did 
not approach you in a parking lot!