[jx2638]

...and although they looked real sweet it brought up a few questions.

With limited resources available on-hand, is there an easy way to test a speaker when in a situation like this...in the event you don't want to take the seller's word that all is fine?

Does the 9v battery test confirm anything other than polarity?

If they're dusty and cobweb ridden can you/should you carefully remove with a damp cloth?

Thanks.

[JonnyBoy]

Bring an amp to the guys place and hook up some wires to the speakers. Givem' a try. They will either not work right, or sound like a fart if they are blown. Try giving them a little juice, sometimes blown speakers can work at low levels. The cleaning is like you said, but DON'T get the paper too wet, it will dry stiffer. Make sure the rag is wrung out completely. I would use a vacuum first with a brush so you don't smear the excess junk into the paper.

[strumminsix]

The 9v will also ensure that the speaker isn't siezed and will ensure the voice coil isn't completely shot.
I'd rely on this for buying the pair of speakers for $10 and just want to make sure they'll work with minimal effort.

[ugly rumor]

gently push down on the cone and feel/listen for the voice coil rubbing. Also look carefully to determine if the paper has rotted, is moldy, or dry-rotted. There probably is a reason these speakers are not in an enclosure. I don't necessarily think that vintage is better. I read somewhere, I think in an interview, that Jerry said that people change their strings, but never consider their speakers. Age, use, wear speakers also. That being said, I just sold my 1973 bassman with original speakers that worked and sounded fine. If they are cheap enough, buy them. Worse case, recone and have a good speaker cheap. Good luck!