This item is the JBL C46 MINIGON, the top-of-the-line compact speaker system released by JBL in the 1950s.
The C46 Minigon is the smallest model in JBL’s Ranger Series, released around the same period as the Paragon and Metregon. Like the other Ranger Series models, it features a distinctive curved reflector. Its production period was very short, and because very few examples remain today, it is an extremely rare item. This is a highly recommended piece both for those aiming to complete their Ranger Series collection and for those experiencing the Ranger Series for the first time.
The unit configuration of this item is the S5 system, consisting of LE10 + LE30 + LX3.
The LE10 woofers are in very good condition. The aluminum sections of the LE30 tweeters, which are very difficult to preserve in good condition, have no noticeable scratches or dents and are also in excellent condition.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that the LE30 was made specifically for the Minigon. Aside from this system, it was only used in the D47 Dale, making it an extremely difficult tweeter to find on its own. It is rare to encounter LE30 tweeters in such fine condition. Both internally and externally, this piece is in superb condition—so much so that it would not be an exaggeration to call it museum- or exhibition-level quality for JBL.
■ Sound Quality ■
Because the design is rooted in the Paragon concept, the sound image that gathers toward the center is outstanding. Since it was originally designed with use as a center speaker in mind, its resolution for vocals and drums is truly exceptional.
Of course, it beautifully conveys the appeal of mono recordings, but surprisingly, it also expresses the imaging of stereo sources with great delicacy. This is likely a testament to JBL’s excellent design technology.
[Specifications]
■ Unit Specifications ■
【LE10 16Ω / Serial: 4727, 4728 / Consecutive Numbers】
The low and midrange sections use the LE10, a 25 cm cone woofer renowned as one of the “masterpieces from JBL’s founding era.”
This is one of JBL’s representative 25 cm woofer units. It achieves high sensitivity through a powerful internal magnetic circuit using an Alnico V magnet. From the time of its release, it was highly praised for being able to operate even with “1 milliwatt,” and it is known for its outstanding efficiency.
Size / Diameter: 25 cm
Approx. 9.8 in
Impedance: 16Ω
【LE30 16Ω / Serial: 4563, 4607】
This is an extremely rare JBL tweeter featuring an aluminum dome.
The aluminum dome is notable for having fewer of the sharp peaks often associated with metal tweeters, allowing it to produce a soft and pleasant high-frequency sound. It would not be an exaggeration to say that this tweeter was made specifically for the Minigon, and it is extremely difficult to find as a standalone unit.
【LX3 Network / Serial: 4492, 4493】
The crossover uses the LX3, a network dedicated to the LE30. The labels are the decal type used on early models.
Crossover frequency: 1 kHz
The speaker cone paper and edges are both in good condition, with no sagging, deterioration, or hardening. As can be seen from the photos, the exterior is also very beautiful.
[Enclosure Specifications]
■ Enclosure Specifications ■
Despite its vintage age, both the exterior and the interior of the enclosure remain in very good condition.
The enclosure, speaker cone paper, and edges are all in outstanding condition. As can be seen from the photos, the exterior is very beautiful.
Made with Douglas fir plywood.
Many exterior photos have been included, so please refer to them to confirm the condition.
C46 MINIGON
Size per side: W800 mm x H320 mm x D400 mm
Approx. 31.5 in x 12.6 in x 15.7 in
Weight per side: approx. 30 kg
Approx. 66 lbs
Total weight after packing / volumetric weight: approx. 60–80 kg
Approx. 132–176 lbs
