70's speaker

[Luthierwnc]

Hi Guys,

This subject has been discussed in bits over several threads but I haven't seen it addressed directly. I'm half-finished with a #40 variant. I started the project as a head to go over two Thieles but I've been drifting towards a 1X12 combo lately. The amp will have a few modern mods (mostly switchable) but other than that, it will be pretty close to the schematic. 50 watt with 6L6s, 12AT7 in the inverter, open back. I'll bring an extra 1X12 cab along if the situation calls for it.

I have a spare G12-65 but don't really like it by itself. I also have the Thieles with an EVM12L and a Swamp Thang to try. In other amps I've got a Scumback H55 and a Cannabis Rex. But I'm looking for something else. I have an 80's circuit amp so those tones are covered.

So, if you could only get one speaker, what would you get?

Price isn't a big issue and neither is weight. I could go cheap too if that is where the mojo is. The WGS Retro 30 is getting good press.

Thanks, Skip

PS Glad you're doing better, Scott.

[212Mavguy]

JBL g125 in 12 inch, g135 in 15. Also JBL MI-12 and MI-15. No longer made and worth the effort to locate. Superb with D-style amp. I have a 2/12 with g125, 2/15 with g135. Have a pair of MI-12's in my 2/12 Boogie Mav. Niiiiiice!

[David Root]

In a ferrite magnet, try an Altec Type II 417C. In an Alnico magnet, the earlier Altec 417B or C. The type II was apparently HAD's favorite speaker.

The B is easier to find and cheaper than the C. The C has a much more rigid frame than the B, so if you are going to lug them around a lot get the C.

I have four 417B Alnicos, they are awesome speakers. All built in the '70s so vintage correct.

[Billion81]

For a more Rock tones out of my 70s amps the 65 watt M75s are great- but no doubt Alnicos are my favorite desert island speaker for these rigs-

If it is down to a single speaker choice I would get the WGS Blackbird.

David Root- is anyone making a version or close to either of the Altec Speakers you mentioned?

[ampdork]

http://www.greatplainsaudio.com/

[bluesfendermanblues]

I've got a FANE 12L in a Thiele cabinet - after break-in its a great speaker.
Low end in spades.

[Luthierwnc]

Billion81: WGS has a Blackhawk and Jensen has the Blackbird. They both seem a lot alike at first glance. Bout the same price too. Any thoughts? Thanks, sh

[David Root]

The Great Plains Audio is the only one I'm aware of. It is essentially a real 417C (IIRC), but it costa lotta, well over $300 I think.

You can get original used 417C w/original cone for less but there is always a bit of a risk in buying an old speaker even if it looks good in the pics.

On the ferrite magnet side, the Fane Studio 12L is excellent in the TL806. I have one in a Boogafunk TL806 cab. The sole US distributor had a 25% discount off list for TAG members when I bought mine a few months ago. IIRC the list is $289. Don't know if that discount is still in force though!

[Billion81]

I forgot about the Fane Studio 12L Killer Speaker- Jelle described it to me a as a EV12L meets Greenback. He's right. Great speaker- Particularly in a open back (Oval) or Thiele cab.

I haven't tried it with the 70s heads but it rips it up with the HRM El34 amp for sure.

I haven't had any experience wit the Blackbird- Sounds cool. I haven't had much luck with WGS other than the Blackhawk- The ET65 was OK but not near a good 12-65 particularly on Overdrive.

I did try the Weber Thames as it looked cool on paper. Ugh- Good cleans, but not a good overdrive spaeker.