JBL 044 Tweeter
1978-1983
The 044 was JBL's aluminum-deposited phenol dome tweeter, used in the L96 and L112. It followed the 066 and gave smoother response and better integration with the ceramic-magnet-era speakers.
Specifications
| Type | Dome tweeter |
|---|---|
| Nominal Diameter | 1" (25mm) |
| Magnet Type | Ferrite (Ceramic) |
| Diaphragm Material | Aluminum-deposited phenol resin |
| Impedance | 8 Ω |
| Frequency Response | 4 kHz - 20 kHz+ |
| Crossover | 3.7-4 kHz (application dependent) |
Key Features
- Phenol Resin Diaphragm: Aluminum-deposited phenol for smooth, extended response
- Ferrite Magnet: Cost-stable ceramic magnet structure
- Low Crossover Point: Can be crossed over as low as 3.7 kHz
- Smooth Response: Refined high-frequency character
Applications
- L96 (1978-1982)
- L112 (1980-1983)
Historical Context
With the 044, JBL switched to phenol resin as the base material and refined the aluminum deposition process. The result was a tweeter that was more consistent to manufacture and smoother in its frequency response.
The use of ferrite magnets instead of Alnico was driven by cost considerations, but JBL's engineering ensured no performance was lost in the transition.
Market Value
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ JBL 044 TWEETER Nov 2026 │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ High $323 Latest $160 │ │ Median $160 Trend — │ │ Low $115 Volume ~2/mo │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ $400 ┤ │ │ │ │ │ │. │ │ $271 ┤ │ │ │ │ │ │ . │ │ │ .│ │ $100 ┤ . │ │ ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ vol │▄ █ ▄ ▄│ │ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ 2026-05 2026-06 2026-08│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
eBay completed sales. Excludes accessories, parts, and non-working units. Hover points for details.
eBay Listings
Recently sold on eBay: $115–$323 (median $160, based on 5 completed sales, past 12 months)
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Documentation
- Lansing Heritage - Comprehensive JBL specifications, photos, and historical documents
- HiFi Engine - JBL manuals, service documents, and brochures
- Audio Karma JBL Forum - Community discussions and restoration guides