JBL A30 (1975–1977)
The JBL A30 is a two-way bookshelf loudspeaker that JBL produced from 1975 to 1977. It pairs an 8-inch 125A woofer with a 1-3/4-inch 121A dome tweeter, crossed over at 2,500 Hz. A front-mounted L-pad adjusts the high-frequency output. The enclosure is trimmed in genuine walnut veneer. JBL's own sales literature pitched it as a speaker that "delivers the best sound...at a medium price."
The two main sources for the A30 agree on impedance (8 ohms), sensitivity (90 dB/W/m), crossover point (2,500 Hz), and weight (6.2 kg). They differ on power handling and frequency response. One lists 10-75W and 48-25,000 Hz. The other gives 35W continuous program and 50-20,000 Hz. The more conservative figures come from Classic Audio's reproduction of JBL specifications, so those are likely closer to the manufacturer's official ratings. Both sets of numbers are commonly cited.
Dimensions are given as 375 x 250 x 230 mm (HxWxD). That matches the imperial listing of 14-3/4 x 9-7/8 x 9-1/8 inches.
Beyond that, the record is thin. No original price and no owner commentary have surfaced. A period review in High-Fidelity (May 1989, p.40) covered JBL's Grand Touring line, which is unrelated to the A30. The A30 turns up occasionally in resale listings, but there are no consistent asking prices to point to.
- Type: Two-way bookshelf loudspeaker
- Drivers: JBL 125A 8" woofer, JBL 121A 1-3/4" dome tweeter
- Crossover: 2,500 Hz
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Sensitivity: 90 dB/W/m
- Weight: 6.2 kg (13.6 lb)
- Dimensions: 375 x 250 x 230 mm (HxWxD)
- Trim: Genuine walnut veneer
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