JBL 2105 (1974–1977)

Name: JBL 2105
Brand: JBL

The JBL 2105 is a compact two-way bookshelf speaker that JBL built from 1974 to 1977. It was essentially a smaller, cheaper version of the famous L100, with the same family resemblance and a less harsh top end. The price made it a hit with Japanese audiophiles in particular. In 1974 it sold for $162 each. By 1977 JBL had replaced it with the L40 at $252.

The cabinet is sealed (acoustic suspension), finished in walnut veneer with a removable black grille. It was styled to match JBL's L26 and L36. Inside, an 8-inch 126H woofer is paired with the 044 tweeter, crossing over at 3.5 kHz. The tweeter is wired out of phase relative to the woofer. The cabinet measures about 13.5 inches wide, 22.5 inches high and 11.5 inches deep, and weighs roughly 26 pounds. Rated impedance is 8 ohms.

Two sources agree on the driver complement and crossover, but they conflict on power handling. Kenrockwell rates it at 50 watts, while a comment from a self-described former JBL employee on the Vintage JBL Database gives 30W max. This page leaves the number out rather than pick one. The 126H woofer uses foam surrounds, which rot and need periodic replacement. It's an easy DIY fix. The 044 tweeters are still fairly easy to find used.

Reception has been consistently positive. Kenrockwell calls it "a classic" with less distortion than the L100 and a smoother, more natural midrange. Today, clean pairs tend to sell in the $400-$600 range on eBay.

Known specs, such as they are: