MOST ICONIC Loudspeaker of ALL TIME! - JBL L100 Classic Speaker Review

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

✅ 🛒 *JBL L100: **bit.ly/3bPYrBt**, **bit.ly/3tNNZlQ* ★ *QOTD: What do YOU think makes a speaker ICONIC?* ★ *🎵+ 🎥 + PRODUCTS SHOWN☝️CLICK “SHOW MORE” in the description* ★ *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*

[@craigclark2851]

Great review, appreciate how you approach audio, it should be fun! I too am a recovering audiophile, began in 1976, KEF 104 and Macintosh, I was hooked!!! Then sold audio in California for University Stereo form 78-82. JBL L100/4311, were the hot ticket. New classic tweeter huge improvement. Q: you mentioned a Crown Amp, yet not listed here - what model? Thanks!!

[@robpars2000]

It's funny I have that Maxwell add on my wall and I didn't know it was the JBL L100 , so now I know , and I'm looking at it (because It's right there) and I think it's very funny , I see the little differences but that not really important so keep that to myself ...

[@robpars2000]

The Maxwell in the end is funny but I have that add on my wall and that not a wine glass that he has but a martini glass , maybe you knew that already but if you didn't now you know ...

[@DiCarpio-yk9pd]

At $4000 they should actually include at least a pair of Cardas Clear speaker cables. These speakers are very very cheaply made in China and selling for $4000 is simply robbing the customers. These cost probably less than $300 to produce in China + shipping cost to the US at around $60

[@mitchelllorens]

Holy S*&t when I saw these new Classics I completely eliminated every thought of purchasing ANY other speakers. I lusted after them as a teen, could never afford them but knew a friend who's older bro had a pair... I loved them then and over the top happy JBL rechristened these beasts... I'm picking mine up tomorrow, pure joy :-) THANKS for the review. I just wanted to feel a little better as my wallet's taken a big hit but you only live once, man. I'm 65, retired and looking forward to these in my life for the remainder. Great job on the review and your opening brought back serious memories... peace

[@gustercc]

Did you end up getting them after all? What kind of rig are running them thru?

[@user8929]

How are you liking them?

[@alexdenton6586]

Do you still enjoy your pair three years later ?

[@angele6733]

$4000- The stands should be included for that price!!

[@TriptyX]

try adding few zeroes, this is cheap :)

[@saswatapatra5919]

This is actually cheap considering we have speakers like Sony AR1 which costs 27k dollars and even better kharma enigma veyron which costs around 678k dollars or even better someone had a record of spending 1.5 million on a home theatre ;3 people are gay

[@ibleebinU]

I totally agree!

[@reginaldjames7975]

live in the UK and there £4000

[@Andernol]

Nah the stands are $300/piece. That's only $4600 for a set of speakers and stands. The only question now is do I want speakers or another term of college?

[@spacemissing]

The original L100 was based on a studio monitor that was designed to be used at fairly close range. As far as I can tell, the consumer versions were designed to be ideal at a greater distance suited to living rooms. In any case, they are one of the most desirable audio products ever put on the market. I've happily owned a pair of L19s since 1981, and some years ago I bought a pair of 4310s at a moving sale for $25. Most people prefer unnaturally emphasized bass. The L100 and its close relatives are designed for correct bass levels.

[@magicmerls291]

My granddad just gifted me an old pair of l100 centuries and they sound so good I don't even have words.

[@williamwong5627]

This was how I got a pair of L100 for free. In the early 80s I followed my colleague to attend a service job on a B&O turntable that had a straight motor driven tone arm. The lady owner was not too pleased with the unit because it was having problems frequently. Since we could not have it repaired onsite, the unit was taken back to our company. On our way out she called us back. She asked us to do her a favour by dumping a pair of JBL L100. Wow! I said to myself, this was jackpot. Fortunately my colleague was not interested in HiFi. So we lugged it down from her apartment to our van. The speakers were ok except for foam grilles that had disintegrated. When I was in the apartment, I also noticed that lady (must be her husband) had another 2 pairs of JBL 4312. Yes 4 pieces. They were about the same size as the L100 but with crossover controls up front. Today I still have the L100 and I really love to play The Eagles' Hotel California (live) on it. It is like being there. 😆

[@AgentJayZ]

You are right. The are worth it, and big power in an amp makes them sound like you opened a screen door that you've always been looking through... I bought a pair of L110s in 1979 for 992.00. I still have them, and they are still amazing. How did JBL design speakers up to the task of 21st century digital audio back in the disco era?

[@gwiorek]

I am going to be buried with my pair !!! Still going strong from when I got them in the 70's

[@robertalker652]

I purchased a pair of JBL L100's in 1976 while stationed in Germany where, as soldiers, we could make these purchases tax and duty free. That said, it was a debilitating price to pay on my low salary but turned out to be one of the best purchases I ever made. They were driven by a Phase Linear 4000 pre-amp and a Phase Linear 250 Watt power amp, and a beautiful Thorens turntable, black widow turn arm (I believe to be the first carbon fibre based product I ever came across), and a very decent cartridge and needle.

[@ralex3697]

Good stuff back then Today better, I like Vintage to admire and respect but old technology not for me anymore.

[@parksmitchell]

I own a pair of original JBL L100's that I bought in 1972. They still sound awesome. Only thing I've needed to do was replace the foam around the tweeter and the foam grill with a cloth grill.

[@johnhighland9980]

I have a pair of L100s bought in somewhere around 1975. They have light appearance blemishes but perform as they did new . Amazing Quality. Still fantastic after all these years

[@donalddeorio2237]

When you buy good quality you get something you will have for many,many years and that makes them a bargain. Great review

[@TheHxpro]

Love your review. Thank you. I am in Melbourne Australia and have owned the L100's since 1977. I love them and enjoy using them very much. A brilliant loudspeaker indeed. I would love to hear a side by side comparison with the L100 Classic.

[@UncompressedWAVmusic]

The original 3-way JBL L100 Century was the home version of the original JBL Professional Studio/Control room version 3-way 4310, which was updated a few years later with the 4311. I bought my JBL 4311WX-A Control Monitors 3-way fantastic speakers in 1978 new in Montreal, Canada for $900 Canadian. It was expensive but I was very happy as I was about to build my own ultimate speakers from JBL components and I went to the JBL store and was shown the 4311 model and bought that one instead of trying to build my own. It has gone through over 20 moves as I moved from Montreal to Vancouver then Toronto areas. The speakers and drivers are still in original and perfect condition never having any repairs. Not the driver but the tweeter foams are somewhat deteriorated but still there and original and still sound perfect. The 15,000 days that I have used them I have enjoyed them immensely with zero regrets as always sounded awesome at low and mid and high volume whatever the music source and with both a low power or higher power amplifier or receiver. They can even handle 1,000 watt peaks with minimum distortion. P.S. I do play and enjoy them with all of the about 25 different types of music on them in the over 2,500 cds and 400+ lps and 1,000 cassettes that I collected over the years and still have. Long live JBL and Rock and other great music!!!

[@davecheatham9665]

I’ve owned a pair JBL 4311 wxa control monitors since 1978 and am still convinced that they are awesome after all this time. Curious how they would compare to the L100 classic ?

[@paulrose6359]

I picked up a pair of 4311 monitors, (They are the pro-summer version of the L100's), for $40. I then found a mint Crown DC300a with wood case for $150. About a week later I came across a Mcintosh MX 115 tuner pre-amp in really nice shape for $500. My thinking was that I will have a nice vintage secondary system to my "BIG", show off system. Well, I did not think that this new "Old" system could come close to the big boy in my living room BUT. After some set up in my man cave room I was blown away how much I liked how it performed. The more I listened the more I became in love with what my ears and head were hearing. I know, I know, a lot of audiophile snickering is going on but people the sound is smooth and clear, the room is small so I am only about 12 feet or so from the JBL's and I leave the volumes at a near-field level but people I love the sound stage of this system ! You don't have to spend a lot if you look around for the right vintage gear. For a lot less than 4K I have a great, (IMO) sounding set up. The stuff is out there, just look for it.

[@mubodude]

Check out the retro color grilles made for them on ebay. They're awesome! I chose red, but want the royal blue and burnt orange versions, too. Lights up the room, along with their superior sound.

[@jamiesmith6838]

Exactly! I've sold my beautiful and powerful room radiator BAT VK-500 for a vintage Sansui AU D11 mk2. I have to admit, the Sansui is faster and there for more engaging.

[@dtimboggs]

The L series have ALWAYS been the best. I own and use primarily two sets of l112's. The 12inch driver for the l100 classic looks like the same driver of the l112 with foam surrounds not folded paper. Thank you Mr. Lansing for the L series of speakers. I paid $1100.00 1982 dollars for my first set of l112's

[@PaulyStax]

I have 2 pairs of L112 and my buddy has some original L100s. The L112's annihilate everything in their path. Best ever. I had some JBL's with titanium drivers (4208 monitors) for 25 years and got rid of them for the L112's in my writing studio and also our home studio. Love JBL.

[@AgentJayZ]

@@PaulyStax In 1979, the L100 was not a current model in Canada, so I bought a pair of 4313s, the pro version of the L110. I paid 992.00CDN. In about 2008, I got a set of used L110s for I think 200.00. The L110s have more bass than the 4313s. Just posting this for price reference.

[@timothysullysullivan2571]

my personal favorite are the 4311b's. heard them many times in studios. basically the commercial/industrial version of L100s. with a high power, hi quality amp they are just an experience- especially with 70's to early 80's music, much of which was mixed or mastered thru them.

[@jimmyhultman9410]

I rarely comment on youtube but i just want to reach out and say that i really appreciate your videos. The quality of writing/thought and delivery are outstanding. Looking forward to more content from you. Take care!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much!

[@RuneRandom]

Great and interesting video.. BUT every concert i did attend, the voice of the performer came from a PA system somewhat colouring the voice i`m sure

[@kevindavis4709]

Yup and Auto-Tune 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Greatdome99]

Go hear a real orchestra or choir.

[@navyjax1128]

1975 I bought 2, 1976 I bought 2 more, for that "quad" sound. They still work, with minor repairs to foam. I bought 2 L112 also for another room. So glad they were only $400 or less then. Still the best IMHO. I seen JBL in every recording studio I been in. back in the day, I thought and still do, they do country and Rock, better than any other speaker. with a sub woofer now, they still rock.

[@UncompressedWAVmusic]

Since this updated JBL L100 Classic came out the used price of the original older model doubled from maybe about $400 to $1,000 Canadian and some want $1,000 for very rough used ones, so this new model release jacked up the price 2 or 3 times of the original order home or studio version.

[@jsdhesmith2011]

Love the review. Your explanation on the speaker stands and having them leaned back a little to extend height of the soundstage is spot on. Although I don’t have the JBL L100’s in my room, I do the same and have experimented with this with many speakers and it always makes for a better sound Stage.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I know Mapleshade Records is big into mounting speakers low with an upward rake. Maybe something to check out as they make stands for ALL types of speakers with this idea in mind. Thanks for watching!

[@blitzbbffl]

Should've installed hair extensions for the brilliant intro & close. In 1980 I auditioned a used pair of L100s and a pair of L166s, and purchased the L166s - which were in their own right JBL classics. Great review!

[@eggshellskullrule7971]

Where I live, these vintage L100 always cost upwards of $1,300, and even thise that hv poked mids and no grilles go for $900 to $1000. So price wise, 4.3k seems a fairly good deal now on a brand new L100 Classic. I really think the real hype is Harman Kardon no longer allows the woofers to be made of hardened paper, cheapening the model and downgrading its performance. Plus, there's no more alnico magnets to it no more. Those two differences are where the remake of L100 really lie IMHO. So, for similar reasons, I'll stick to my quad 4320 for a while more.

[@pastorkev777]

Alnico speakers do feel different. I am building a cab to l100 dimensions and using some high end 60s cts components to finish the project. I may switch it up and run dual midranges, I am unsure.

[@hawgbreath]

Back in the day (‘75) I bought a pair of 4311’s - the “pro” version of the L100. $300 each. The best audio purchase I’ve ever made. At the time the JBL competed heavily with Bose 901’s. I never could understand why, after listening to any of these, anyone would choose the 901’s. The sound was heavily colored as is described in this video and nowhere as sharp as either of the JBLs. But in the day, max wattage/channel was the in thing and Bose could handle more (on paper) but at lower resistance (4 ohms). Still, after listening to them all the 4311’s were, and are, sheer perfection for accurate reproduction. I still own them...

[@fairdesful]

As always you nail your reviews and speak in a language that makes sense to anyone - not just audiophiles and techno nerds. Now I need to start saving some money...

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I appreciate you watching!

[@NeilBlanchard]

Question: they are not mirror pairs, right? The tweeter and midrange are on the right side as you listen to them - does this affect the imaging?

[@chrismontreuil2206]

It does. But the larger the room the better. Sound better off the stands.

[@mikemiller5960]

i purchased my l100s in the early 80s they were supplied with quality timber jbl stands

[@59cdv]

A couple years ago, a friend purchased a pair of Kenrick JBL 4335 studio monitor reproductions with all the upgraded tricks. Loved them for a year (or so he thought up until the time). Price. shipped with duty fees, etc was just north of $12,000. A bit later he decided he wanted something better and purchased another pair of Kenrick JBL 4345 monitors for $16,000. (Same driver compliment as the 4335 except with a 18" woofer instead of 15" in the 4335). After finding little improvement, he went on to buy a modern pair of high end speakers that originally listed for $40K, for $13,000 used in mint condition. These he found performed far better than anything he ever heard. Not long after, he was approached by someone interested in the high end speakers for a substantial profit, so finding himself in the position of needing another pair of speakers, he turns to me for advice. I suggested the Polk RTiA9 towers which are only $1,000 for a pair to tide him over. Since the sale of the high end speakers hadn't yet transpired, he was in the position to directly compare the both pairs side by side. We both suspected the high end model would be a tough act to follow, speculating that it would be a good thing if the Polks gave 90% of the performance. After the new Polk RTiA9 arrived and after spending some time comparing them, he calls me with the news that the Polks outperformed the high end model he was selling. The saleslady with whom he had had purchased some pricey McIntosh electronics had stopped by to listen to the system who brought along another co-worker and they compared the "$40,000" speakers with the $1,000 Polks. These are people who work in a high end audio store and both were in equal disbelief astonished that it was possible for these $1,000 speakers outperformed this very high end model, staring at one another. Then the man then wanted to know what kind of speaker cables were being used (thinking inferior cables may be contributing the more expensive speakers' disadvantage.) He responded by informing him that the high end speakers were connected by the ultra expensive cables; the Polks were connected by LAMP CORD! Just goes to show how disparate performance can be relative to price - especially where it comes to speakers. The moral of the story: NEVER invest in multi thousand dollar speakers before doing your homework, via some serious demonstration time with a variety of speakers at a range of price levels to make sure your getting your money's worth. Maybe the JBL L100 is a great speaker - I don't know. But before dropping that kind of coin, anyone considering a pair would be well advised to do some serious auditioning first.

[@johnbgood52]

Polk has always been one of the industry leaders in the bang for the buck category. In terms of sound quality, you get a lot more than you pay for. Oh, and BTW - the only characteristics of a speaker cable that have any audible effect are resistance and capacitance. Those being equal, there will be no audible difference between $1000 a pair "audiophile" cables and ordinary zip cord. There are few things on this earth more awash in snake oil than the high end audio industry. ;-)

[@59cdv]

@@johnbgood52 Amen on that.

[@dyang1982]

I would love to see the L65 come back.

[@veteq101]

This video convinced me, I just picked up a set. Just got them home and so far I am impressed, still early in the break in process. Great sounding speaker and it disappears into the room like no other speaker that I tried in this same room. Andrew, always great videos but you are starting to cost me a lot of money. :-)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate you watching. Are you still liking these speakers?

[@willosee]

The L110’s were sweet and I have owned both. The Yamaha NS1000’s were also tremendous as well. As you correctly say how good they are for rock and roll. Play Jackson Browne’s The Pretender and you get the gig.

[@christopherbullock2644]

Totally agree about The Pretender. Especially when shopping for headphones.

[@michaelputnam1624]

The late 60's and early 70's saw a revolution in music, and music reproduction. So exciting back then.

[@sidvicious3129]

Good to see you back Andrew. Although 4 grand isn’t cheap, the are a ton of speakers that cost a lot more. A great pair of speakers rewards you more in the long run than any other components. Also if this is a speaker that you want, wait for it to go on sale or buy it used.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate the comment and support and agree with you 100%.

[@musclecarfan74]

I loved that old Maxell ad of the 80's

[@jerrygould8]

they look fantastic, but where are the cables?

[@Greatdome99]

Blue tooth?

[@genesmith4019]

Better than original? Maybe, although- If you want to hear what Tom Dowd or Quincy Jones heard when producing The Allman Brothers or Michael Jackson's recordings- you would want the original L-100s. The original L 100 was a prettier version of JBL's professional studio monitors that many of our favorite records were mixed on. They were made in Northridge California, USA. JBL Professional was selling so many of the monitors to folks in the industry who took them home, they introduced the L 100 for everyone to own through retail stereo shops. I remember when I got my first pair new. The retail price was $333 each. I got mine for $450/ pair since a Bass player I was working with had a girlfriend who worked at Sam Goody and she gave me her employee price. $450 was a stretch for me at the time but I've still got those same speakers and they bring me enjoyment every day. For 20 years that first pair 'worked' in my commercial photo studio in a warehouse and those flat-wound voice coil, Alinco V magnet drivers pumped Steely Dan to Charley Parker loud and CLEAR 10 hours a day. If you've never held one of those well crafted beautiful cast aluminum drivers in your hands it is a delight. I now have two pairs both mated to GFA 5500 Adcoms, one pair in my living room and another to keep up with with my Drumbs in the basement. A few years ago one could pick up L 100s for a couple of hundred bucks and my nephew once pulled a pair off the curb just ahead of the trash truck in the rain! Now a whole new generation of listeners are snatching up the original L 100s on Ebay and their value is rising like an old 911 Longhood- Listen to a pair with some acoustic music like a jazz piano trio with upright Bass and you'll know what excellence is. Don't hesitate. Treat yourself.

[@gregorytrane7828]

The JBL 100's classics included with the right accompanied equipment, are speakers we all grew up with, loved whenever we heard them and quite possibly could be the last speakers anyone will ever need because they sound good with any music or sound thrown at them. Good review as always.

[@glichasasha750]

I didn’t grow up with them, so no, we didn’t all grow up with them.

[@VIDSTORAGE]

A good solid rectangular cabinet and quality drivers will always be the best speaker ..

[@fowler989]

I'm curious, did you pay the full $4K for your JBL L100 pair ?

[@kevindavis4709]

I was wondering did KZbin convenience JBL too send these speakers too him for a review? I've seen videos of KZbinrs getting products donated too them for reviews and sponsors look at your cell phone reviews Google pixel 3 XL is one of those videos talking about. Google gave KZbinrs these phones to review

[@Reuben007Ash]

Great review. It’s made in USA like McIntosh ? THX

[@oyobass]

Listened to your review through original Black label L-100s. Still love these things!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Nice! Thank you for watching.

[@blinko656]

I have 4 of these from 1970. They still work. :)

[@AriaPosting]

These are neat speakers, and this is a neat video. However, these speakers cost $4000 which makes me sad. I'm still gonna watch the video.

[@marvinmartian7281]

Just buy a pair of Century's L-100 or L-112 4311 4312 4411 used for about $1000 or less for example is the solution.

[@jamiesmith6838]

@@marvinmartian7281 Exactly! Positively. Hands down. $4300 USD is absurd. I'd like to know is everything.. from drawing, components to finish, totally USA product? Only then can I justify the pricing? Otherwise, "Old tech" comes with old pricing! They should have built-in D-class amps? Hold those Crowns amps please!

[@bighands69]

@@jamiesmith6838 The price demonstrates how much inflation there has been over the last 50 years. A solid gold Rolex could have been had in the early 1960s for $300 and today that same rolex would cost about $30000. In reality that rolex should only cost about $1000. It is not that anybody is over charging inflation has caused this.

[@jamiesmith6838]

@@bighands69 Don't forget or overlook devaluation of the fiat currency? That causes prices to skyrocket too! Doesn't help wages have stagnated for decades. Just as the work day doubled! Rolex nor JBL still are not worth their weight in gold.

[@bighands69]

@@jamiesmith6838 Currency devaluation combined with over regulation and high taxes is the cause.

[@TheBlessed595]

once upon a time I own the L96 which was a scaled down version of the L100... I absolutely loved my L96

[@britsluver]

I love your reviews. So good. Have a good weekend xx

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I really appreciate that, you too.

[@gaj9080]

Has anyone heard if JBL is going to reissue the L200 speaker. I have the L100's, but have longed for the L200's

[@thomaswachter7782]

What an opening. It's brilliant.

[@mitchelllorens]

It was that..what a memory :-)

[@JPee-x4you]

I loved my original L100s. They rocked something fierce. I now miss them. Thanx for this review. 💰💰💰💰

[@ootrip40]

Though I agree on your vision on neutrality of a speaker your example is somewhat unbelievable; If you remember your favourite singer from a live performance through a PA system you can hardly speak of an uncoloured sound. This singer will sound incredibly coloured and with different colourisation depending on equipment used and venue-acoustics.

[@spekenbonen72]

The only thing negative I have to say is that the official website for these speakers talk about "genuine walnut veneer". As a carpenter/joiner/furniture builder, I'm not impressed by that... But I will be blown away when I go visit the local hi-fi shop and listen to these beauties. Now all I need is 4k to buy them. :s

[@vdochev]

OK, so when I'm at a concert and I'm listening my favorite musicians live, I'm still listening through microphones, amplifiers and loudspeakers. So does that add colorization?

[@d112cons]

Unfortunately, yes. And depending on the venue, it's something they're trying to avoid. Good concert sound engineers do the best they can, venues might also make an effort to spec their PA equipment for this as well. Truth told, concerts are not a reliable example of the band's ideal sound. Uncontrolled environments, crappy clubs with crap gear, etc., too many variables. Rarely do live shows better capture a band's "intended" sound better than their albums - and the money bands throw at their studio production ahould make that obvious. Concerts are simply for the Live Experience. Not the perfect example of how your favorite band should sound. Rare is the live album that sounds better than the studio release.

[@vdochev]

@@d112cons It's a bit subjective if the band sounds better live than studio recordings and depends on the band. Sometimes I listen live performances just because they aren't "perfect" and there are interesting moments created on the spot. For example: Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, The White Stripes, etc. make great live performances and improvizations. Erykah Badu said it best: performing in studio is like perfecting the moment, performing live is like creating it.

[@d112cons]

@@vdochev I'll offer a counter point by way of agreement! It's applicable for the right type of artist, and the right type of music. An orchestra, for example, is never meant to be heard anywhere but live (hence, the importance of a suitable concert hall, and the demand it places on a transparent, uncolored audio system at home). Clapton and others were born for the stage. These days, too many artists are KZbin-kids, or EDM junkies. For them, their sound is defined by what comes through their own headphones. Not to mention the vast amount of bands that suck live simply because nobody "gigs" anymore to get things right. For them, the concerts are just a way to bring in cash. Their identity as an artist lives on their hard drives. Thus, the concert experience rarely offers the definitive version of their work.

[@vdochev]

@@d112cons I can agree with that.

[@jamiesmith6838]

@@d112cons Very well said.

[@TD402dd]

I listened to the L100 grey colored speaker at length, and it impressed me with playing loud without obvious distortion. However, to compare them with the finest speakers made today?

[@ralex3697]

D. Paul Gladstone Agree completely

[@charlieangkor8649]

listening through youtube lossy compression on a tiny smartphone speaker in a noisy environment

[@timothysullysullivan2571]

good to see a purist here lol

[@ACERASPIRE1]

Gosh Charlie you are so clever!

[@scottprice8994]

What are you talking about? No music was played through the speakers in the video.

[@airgunnersc9335]

I purchased the JBL L100T(Black Lacquer) new in 1985 and still have them powered to a AU 7900 Sansui integrated amp. Do they compare to these new JBL L100 Classic?

[@DokterKattenbakvulling]

But WHY are they 4000? I just don't understand where that cost comes from. You cant pin it all on R&D.

[@skystudios2474]

It's not all based on R&D, materials, and labor. They look at the ridiculously priced audio market, and adjust it to what they think potential buyers are willing to pay. Everything is overpriced when your core audience are middle aged men with a surplus of cash.

[@bentleygt3716]

thank you . great review. since you posted this review in March 2019 . how do you like'em now?. are you still impressed and enjoying them today?. and if you were to start all over (in my case) and buy these speakers with some audio equipment . which Amp would you buy ?. thank you

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We actually opted to return them around the end of last year. They are good speakers but we ultimately preferred our Heresy's and to save room sent them back.

[@namzarf]

The JBL's of the 1960's and 70's were designed and manufactured in the USA. Harmon Kardon,, AKG, and JBL are now subsidiaries of SAMSUNG (Harmon Industries International), designed and manufactured...elsewhere. A factor in performance? You decide.

[@Acoustic_Theory]

What I would prefer to see is furniture-grade cabinetry and real-wood veneering. I think people would be willing to pay more if the speaker exudes craftsmanship that comes from skillful woodworking, rather than a vinyl wrap woodgrain covering. If they built speakers with cabinets like the ones that Kenrick Sound refurbishes, then people would be more likely to say that the heyday of JBL has returned. These are nice speakers, but apart from the sonic hardware (speaker components, basic cabinet design) not quite fully realized.

[@patl709]

What do people assume that a product made in East Asia wont be as good as if it were made in their home country?

[@namzarf]

@@patl709 The question is whether Samsung will be able to manage all of the audio manufactures that they purchased for their $8 billion dollar outlay. By the way; the companies included in that spending spree also included high-end JAPANESE audio manufactures, including Crown, Infinity, and AMX. When James Lansing, the founder, and chief audio engineer at JBL passed away, the company was bound to lose some prestige, he was one in a million. In fact, the company had lost its way long before Samsung stepped in. I can't speak for the "high-end" JAPANESE companies---and they are East Asian!---but as a quality control engineer in the telecommunications industry for 30 years, I can safely say that some European audio manufacturers---AKG specifically---have been floundering for years. As to what Samsung is up to, and whether they can make this work is to be determined. But no one myself included, is suggesting they're not capable. Calm down.

[@Greatdome99]

@@Acoustic_Theory The originals were real walnut veneer over pressboard. The pressboard is important acoustically because it is more homogeneous than solid wood and is more consistent in tone and damping.

[@jamiesmith6838]

Now the truth be told. 👍

[@MartinGustafsson-e6v]

Hi, After some years gone by and you have been praising Beolab 28 as your new and perhaps the ultimate speaker, is the additinal cost worth it in comparision to the JBL L100? I’m thinking on buying one of these. Br Martin

[@oldskool80sfan12]

JBL make great sounding speakers, I would not hesitate to splash out 4 grand for those speakers BTW geat review, keep up the good work

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much.

[@bolttracks]

Man, I just don't trust any woofers larger than 10" once I started mixing mainly on 6.5" to 8" speakers. Just haven't heard any that came close to the low-end accuracy of smaller woofers, especially if the latter are really stiff like Focal's W-cones.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I would tend to agree, as I too like a smaller woofer for the reasons you've mentioned, but the 10 inch woofer in the L100 is pretty damn impressive. Thanks for watching!

[@astrotrance]

I always wondered why the Maxell guy, if he could afford JBL L-100s, a nice leather jacket, and a butler, didn't just buy Ride of the Valkeries on CD.

[@DJNaveE]

Kudos to you for doing the maxell thing at the end and finally breaking that stoic demeanor and letting your inner fanboy peek his head out

[@AlainHubert]

I thought the most iconic loudspeaker was the Japan Fisher Electronics made Realistic Mach One (the original 4024A from 1976). I still have mine in perfect condition.

[@starman2k209]

I have a pair of Mach 2's. Awesome sound pounders!

[@davidcroteau510]

Hi I just finished a total restore on my L100a orange label,s all new voice coils spiders cones, except I saved the original woofer cone,e I stated with the original topology crossover, new l pods. Audiocap capacitor,s And 3uf/8uf it cost me 800.00 in all and alot of love ,

[@ilpatongi]

The L100s were a revisited consumer version of the JBL 4313 monitor

[@smwsmwsmw]

4311, not 4313.

[@thomas21000]

Great review, watching with my JBL 4429 monitors... What preamp and source are you using ?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Preamp was my Marantz NR1509 in direct mode. Source(s) U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus and my media streamer(s). Thanks for watching!

[@MrAlvarochahin]

I've been lusting this speakers for years. $4000 a pair ffs

[@omgwtfpwnd]

Don’t bother, it’s all hype.

[@nodoubt46able]

@@omgwtfpwnd go away stupid, and take your cheap \ass polks you probably own, with you.....JBL rules......

[@sting64az]

@@nodoubt46able JBL because "I wanna hear the truth".

[@HiPlains1]

@@nodoubt46able I've got a pair a Polk Audio SDA SRS 1.2 TL with 13 drivers with the liquid coupled 15 inch subwoofer that will probably blow these things out of water but that was the reference Polk speakers back in the day and they still sound great.

[@PGHJR002]

Try a vintage used pair and do a blind test. I'll bet the later ones lack full, deep, bass compared to the vintage classic.

[@dennisheuvelmans]

definitely not

[@ricklogan3328]

I own JBL 4311's... Really nice monitors...

[@mubodude]

Same here! And there's a guy that makes and sells original color grilles on ebay for them. I had a tough time between royal blue, burnt orange or red. Went with red as my 4311's are the grey color instead of walnut. I may get the others just to change it up a bit. Completely turns the room into something new.

[@jerryhall1812]

Might I remind everyone that Bart Locanthi already created an improved l100. Its called the hpm100 which my dad bought in England in 1978 along with a pioneer sx1080. I own today still in pristine condition and trust me when I say no additional sub needed!!

[@TomScholfield]

Love the channel and your vibe Andrew! Keep up the great work.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you Tom, appreciate you watching!

[@martincourtenay-blake5792]

Way back in the early seventies it was very difficult to audition US made gear here in the UK. Luckily, in Cardiff (Wales) we had a very enterprising and serious dealer who imported a lot of American audio equipment such as Audio Research, MacIntosh, JBL and KLH. I went to audition a smaller pair of AR2s or AR3s I seem to remember but was immediately drawn to the Century 100s, initially by their appearance, which was so much cooler than the traditional designs of the time. The dealer hooked them up to a MacIntosh amp and Bam, I was hooked.....but, the dealer pointed to two large boxes that had clearly just arrived and said let's try these as well. They were a pair of the then new KLH 28s. Even though they hadn't been run in they still sounded superb and something inside me suggested that I preferred them over the JBLs. As a comparison he also wired up a pair of Yamaha NS-1000Ms which I found too brittle sounding compared to the two US speakers. To be honest I would have taken either of the JBLs or KLHs. I never did buy the AR2s or AR3s. and as I couldn't afford to buy either pair of my new objects of desire I left empty handed. However just as I and my friend were leaving the owner of the store called us over and, pointing to the KLHs, said that if I could get one each under each arm and carry them out of the store I could have them. I did try but to no avail, those things were an awkward shape, quite large and were damned heavy. I just wish he had made the same offer on the Century 100s as I think I might just have managed them. Interestingly, even though I have been an avid follower and user of mainly British audio equipment later in life I turned once again to the US and found my favourite system of all time. Whilst using a Naim CD player and old Ariston turntable I partnered them with a Krell amp and Martin Logan speakers. For me a marriage made in heaven......but those Century 100 Classics do look very tempting.

[@yangarzon8994]

I have to say I am 💯% totally agree with your review. I went to my local audiophile shop to ear those sit in a couche on their stands and listening to Ledzep 2 remastered and I was blown away by the natural sound out of them...no bells no whistle....only true voice bass distortion and 🥁......found a pair of old bigger Bros L112 refoamed and I got the same feeling now in my room drived by a Moon 250i. Sound natural and perfectly balanced and high and bass and mid are alive in my face....next pair will be new century plus 2 sub As a bass player I needed something that sound like a live band not mic only pure live sounds.....that is what JBL is all about for audiophile. Thanks great review honest and true

[@victorseastrom3455]

I have an original pair of Century 100s which I bought new back in 1971. They were sold as "studio monitors" and were meant to be used for audio production. I was sold a pair of these along with a set of Macintosh Amps and an Ampex Ag440 4 track studio recorder. I still have everything but the Ampex. They still sound great after all these years.

[@isaacsykes3]

EASILY, one of the BEST REVIEWS I HAVE EVER SEEN...I love it please keep up the good work. And if you can I would really love your take on the Klipsch RF 7 III'S, the Triton Reference, and for similarities sake the Klipsch Forte III'S. THANKS again for an Awesome review!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much!

[@ShellstaTube]

(Without yet hearing the L100 Classics) ... I suggest they are similarly placed to the Klipsch Forte IIIs ... so try the Klipsch Cornwall IIIs and be blown away (if you can handle the physical size increase).

[@guerospizza9334]

So we got a pair of L100 CLASSIC this year!! if you have to choose an amp, wich one would be ???? SALUDOS DE MEXICO

[@Wil_Bloodworth]

You're missing a lamp and a martini!

[@connormccall5345]

went to a mates and his father had them they are truly incredible ive never heard music so clean and just perfect

[@PresidentGas1]

Funny how one year later your tune has changed as these are starting to fall apart due to terrible build quality.

[@acemage1116]

Andrew, in you´re opinion, (if money is no issue) could i use the L100 as all speakers in my 9.2.6 atmos surround system?

[@Zockopa]

The L-100 was replaced by a much better speaker, the L-112,which btw the new L-100 classic resembles more then the original L-100. Imho the L-100 Classic is more a L-112 MK2 with a noticable higher pricetag than the original L-112. The rest is just PR talking.

[@jamiesmith6838]

Absolutely! I was just about to write exactly that!! Tower Records had 2 pairs in their SOHO store before closing their doors, not L-100s! The L-112s are nicer looking too with grills off! The blacked out mid-range and tweeter gives the new L-100 a cheap look..black works with their 4312B studio monitors. Even their L-166 Horizon were superior to the L-100s, and sexier with their egg carton style grills! This guy is pure P.R. Crown amp? I'm getting a headache.

[@mazzysmusic]

Seems most folks here don't understand the price of great speakers. Sure there are very good speakers under $1500 but there are many also way above $4000. I bought my original pair of L100s in 1975 and they cost $600. which as you say, is pretty much the same price as these newer better versions cost today when you take in inflation. I now own a pair of $4500 B&W 702s2s and have a vintage refurbished pair of L100s downstairs in my office. I really would love to hear the new ones. In terms of a slight lack in bass, I'd say add a carpet if in fact that really is your listening space.

[@SKOTxFREE]

I’ve seen Speakers for $10,000 easy. Now are they worth it? Who knows but $4000 for a pair of speakers that will last a lifetime is better than $500 speakers you keep changing out every few years because they either fail or you find something even better.

[@swinde]

I acquired a pair of the original L-100s from a yard sale about 10 years ago. Of course they have different grills and the cabinets are scuffed up somewhat. However they sound really good. I use them with my computer and also as part of my repair shop. My main system uses another classic speaker. A pair of Acoustic Research model AR-3a.

[@honuman39]

How much is a used yard sale set of L100's?

[@mikehancock6280]

I paid $10 at goodwill for mine.

[@swinde]

@@mikehancock6280 I paid $30 for the pair about 15 years ago. This was before the demand for vintage hi-fi equipment became strong. They were were not in very good shape cosmetically, but the sound excellent. I use them in my electronic shop and computer system. They are driven by a Dynaco PAT-4 Preamp and a Marantz Model 250 power amp.

[@joeldawson442]

Taking me back. 1977 senior year I borrow $2000 on a co-sign with my parents and bought L 65s and Phase Linear 4000 preamp and 400 amp. What a blast they were. Still have the Phase Linears but of course not working. Sold the JBLs to a friend and they were stolen. Bummer as they used to say.

[@HoosierRooster]

I still have my 4311 s and I love them

[@BlankBrain]

I have 4343s and love them.

[@ricklogan3328]

I have 4311's also...

[@ajlopez6219]

Would love to see you do a review of the JBL 4312G’s. Seems like a great alternative to the JBL L100s for half the price with similar characteristics on paper.

[@veedub95]

If you tube was around in 1970. People would say that $500 was to much money. People tend to complain about the price of equipment they want but can’t afford.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I suppose you're right. We want what we can't have, it's human nature. Thanks for watching!

[@kevindavis4709]

To be honest people back then will say KZbin is for rich people lol

[@wesleyhobbs9]

So, how are they for bass? I know he mentioned in the video about having a subwoofer, and how are these compared to the klipsch heresy’s? I don’t like all bass, but I definitely want some deep bass in my speakers.

[@26101976bdm]

Would be happy paying $4000 US for these, but alas I live in Australia - so I get to pay $8495. Nice one.

[@s.chaisrisuk4956]

Naaaa?

[@Mrch33ky]

I have a set of Revel (JBL) M22's that were $2200 plus $300 for the stands and they too are AWESOME. The only down side is that they REQUIRE a tall room to sound AWESOME. And by tall I mean ceilings 15 feet or higher. So not a great speaker in a normal sized apartment or a normal sized condo. But in a tall room you will feel like you are front row center at a stadium show with exceptional live sound.

[@jafo4775]

There's a lot to be said for paper cones.

[@ultraneight]

Right on

[@d112cons]

Agreed. Have to take care of them - about the least durable option out there - but as a speaker material, underrated. Reasonably dead acoustically if made properly, good ridgidity, good strength to weight ratio. Good stuff.

[@ryanjofre]

d112cons - Exactly. It's not Uber durable but it's one of the most acoustic neutral materials ever invented/implemented.

[@linkeddevices]

ryanjofre it's because paper can be a blend of anything. it's not paper like knapkkns it's more like paper as in money.

[@ryanjofre]

Linked Devices Your preaching to the choir. I'm a horticulture expert. The "paper" from something like Hemp is a universe different than some cheap woofer paper from a low end 1972 speaker. I want these speakers bad. Federal reserve Monopoly money is made from cotton/linen.

[@througheagleseye585]

With this prices no wonder ppl rebuild classic speakers back to their original glory.

[@PaulTardino]

People pay waaaaay too much for nostalgia. However, it's human nature. I could build a one of these out of SOLID walnut (instead of veneer) for 1/8th the cost.

[@margix1172]

they cost the exact amount of money(adjusted for inflation) they used to cost in the 70's so what??? this is NOT "nostalgia" this is a speaker that looks like a REAL speaker and sound better than lots of much more expensive speakers...so what?

[@PaulTardino]

@@margix1172 Just so we are clear here, they do NOT cost the exact same amount. In 1971, they cost what?...$400/pair... which is $2,500 in 2018 dollars. You said these sound better than lots of more expensive speakers, so you own a pair of these and have heard them? what other more expensive speakers have you listened to since you are so experienced??? With that being said, the entire premise of this speaker is nostalgia...why else call it the "Classic" and have it look EXACTLY like the original from almost 50 years ago??? Back then, I'm sure they were using state of the art drivers at that time. But show me a high end speaker costing this amount that uses paper cones. You really think these can hold a candle to a pair of B&W 702 S2s? I can't say for sure though since I have not heard these JBL classics in action. Feel free to spend your $4,400 on a pair of these if that's what floats your boat... you are entitled to your own opinion. Maybe they are worth it to you. To me, they are WAY overpriced.

[@margix1172]

@@PaulTardino I owned B&W 802 and they are great speakers but NOT as good and lively as the JBL synthesis series the Klipsch heritage series or the Tannoy legacy series. And they needs a power plant in order to works well. I have listened JBL 4429 and I can assure you that with a NORMAL amplifier they are better than any B&W Kef Spendor etc....4000 dollars is a lot of money but NOT if compared to tiny ugly towers at the same price level,regarding the look I DO want a speaker that looks like a speaker and not like a vacuum cleaner . Check the Steve Guttenberg channel and he will tell you the same,JBL Klipsch and Tannoy have something that other "analitical" speakers don't have: SOUL. I can't stand analitical speakers ,they care more of the technical issue than the music,I DO want EMOTIONAL speakers that put music in the first place.

[@PaulTardino]

@@margix1172 I agree. I am not into just reading specs and looking at data sheets of SPLs of speakers. It all comes down to what your ears hear. I just don't think speakers have to be expensive to sound great. I have built many speakers, and most of them beat the socks off a lot of higher priced, large, vacuum looking towers you see.... at a fraction of the cost. I just feel as though these are overpriced for the components used... as there has to be a TON of mark-up on these. I have yet to hear them, but I believe they probably sound great.

[@kevindavis4709]

@@PaulTardino I agree. Before I buy it I have too hear it Just because something is expensive don't mean it's good like buying a 10$ cheeseburger from Carowinds taste like crap only thing good are french fries heck you pay less at a burger joint get a banging Burger under 8$ blowing Carowinds Burger out the window

[@charlesludwig9173]

Yes, effortless volume is what I appreciate most from my JBL L100t3's, which I purchased back in the mid eighty's. They still satisfy in my multi-channel system that includes JBL L20t3's and a JBL B380 subwoofer; yet, I'm now saving for a pair of JBL 4429's. The 4429's take the effortless volume up a notch. I found an authorized dealer who will sell the speakers for a thousand dollars off the listed price. At any rate, the new L100's are a welcome sight, to JBL fanboys like me. I'm hoping they will be successful in today's marketplace where a stereo system is not a priority as it was for folks back in the 1970's.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate the comment and I too am happy to see the L100s make a comeback. Thanks for watching.

[@albinpersson5468]

Good video, i own JBL 4435 and i love it!

[@stoutdog56]

Great speakers, I didn't know about all the Pro Series back then. I upgraded from my L36's to 4315's and know what you mean.

[@TuiCatNZ]

I considered a 2nd hand pair of Klipsch Forte 3's for a similar price. As good, better?

[@jariol]

I wonder if I should be sick I sold a perfect pair of JBL L112 that I bought in 1981 brand new for $550 I sold them in 2010 for $50 each

[@madgigahz]

jariol sorry for your loss

[@kevindavis4709]

Dang broski dude I wouldn't have sold them less than 300$ truth be told I wouldn't care if I sold them. These speakers are like a Lamborghini compared too Best buy speakers.

[@dougswinford389]

I had the L100 before back in '76, and you had me at "they're back !!" I really didn't want to refurbish the old cabinets, but there is a place that will do it. Outstanding !!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Definitely check the new ones out. Thanks for watching!

[@jeffsanders7691]

I think I will just fix my L100's I have now.

[@QoraxAudio]

At 4000 dollars, lifespan should be very long and spare parts for repairs should be available. Only a decades long lifespan can justify the costs IMO, making it a long term investment. Would make it a decent alternative to the modern 'disposable economy'.

[@gregarioussolitudinist5695]

I thought that was a Memorex Commercial.

[@williamborges3914]

It was a Maxell ad for magnetic tape.

[@gregarioussolitudinist5695]

@@williamborges3914 thank you. now, i have actually listened to this video and heard him credit the tape commercial. i know, that would have been a good idea.

[@williamborges3914]

@@gregarioussolitudinist5695 With the passage of time a lot of the ad's subtle connotations have been lost. At face value it may look to Andrew and others as though Maxell was selling L100's instead of tape. However, at the time knowledgeable consumers instantly understood the ad's message. The L100's were the most easily recognizable aspirational speaker with their high dynamic range, full-bodied, bright and punchy -- for the times -- "West Coast" sound. However, most standard-bias magnetic tapes available to consumers then were anything but dynamic, full-bodied, bright and punchy. So, by using the old advertising trick involving "transference psychology" and a lot of humor the ad agency turned consumers' desire for L100's into a desire for Maxell tapes. It was a brilliant move that inadvertently created an iconic image. Cool, eh?