Canton GLE 409, shown in walnut and silver finish. For additional photographs and high resolution JPEG image files, please visit http://www.gspr.com/canton/gle.html
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (2/12/07) — Canton, Germany’s largest and best selling manufacturer of loudspeakers, has introduced the new GLE series of full-range loudspeakers for stereo and multichannel audio. An evolution of the popular LE Series it replaces, the GLE line has been completely redeveloped for improved performance through the incorporation of material and design advances developed for the company’s high-end Vento, Ergo, and Karat lines. The GLE series consists of two floorstanding models, two compact speakers, a horizontal center-channel and a low-depth on-wall speaker.
“The GLE series is a remarkable lineup,” said Paul Madsen, President of Canton USA. “Through the careful application of the most effective new technologies developed for the flagship speaker lines, Canton’s engineers have managed to deliver performance that comes surprisingly close to our higher-end speakers at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, we’ve added two new options to the range of finishes from the classic LE series, making them easier than ever to match any decor.”
The most significant advance in the GLE speakers is the replacement of the LE series’ traditional polypropylene cones with the aluminum bass and midrange drivers used in the company’s higher end lines. In order to fully exploit the accuracy and stability of these diaphragms, the drivers’ motor structures have been redesigned with more powerful magnets, and vented voice coils for improved heat dissipation.
They also feature upgraded heavy cast baskets to accommodate the increased power handling. Overall, these changes have given the new line significantly greater power handling, higher sensitivity, and improved accuracy throughout the bass and lower midrange frequencies.
In addition to the advances in the bass drivers, Canton engineers have made improvements to the silk dome tweeter, including a more powerful motor structure and increased accuracy. The tweeter employs the company’s transmission mounting plate, which is subtly flared to improve frequency response and efficiency. The GLE Crossover networks have been redesigned with upgraded materials and precisely matched to the driver and enclosure systems for better linearity and frequency response both on- and off-axis. Finally, the GLE series’ enclosures have been painstakingly refined to incorporate narrower front baffle systems for improved imaging.
The GLE 409 floorstanding speaker is the largest model in the series. It features a three-way bass reflex design, employing a pair of 8-inch woofers, a single 7-inch midrange, and 1-inch silk dome tweeter. It has a suggested retail price of $1,299 per pair.
The GLE 407 floorstander employs a sophisticated 2-1/2 way design that uses a pair of 7-inch cones for deep bass reproduction, but routes midrange frequencies to only the top cone to provide improved off-axis dispersion. It has a suggested retail price of $999 per pair.
The magnetically shielded GLE 405 CM can be used as either a horizontal center channel, or for front or rear channels in a home theater. It features two 6-inch aluminum woofers and a 2-1/2 way crossover similar to the GLE 401, giving it outstanding bass response and off-axis dispersion. It has a suggested retail price of $449 each.
The two-way GLE 403 employs a 7-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter in a front-ported cabinet suitable for mounting on a shelf, or on the optional LS 600 stand. It has a suggested retail price of $599 per pair.
The two-way GLE 402 compact speaker features a 6-inch woofer and rear port, and can also be mounted on a shelf or on the LS 600 stand. It has a suggested retail price of $499 per pair.
The GLE 401 loudspeaker features the same driver complement as the GLE 402, but in a sealed box cabinet that is a mere 3-1/2-inches deep, making it ideal for on-wall mounting. It has a suggested retail price of $479 per pair.
All of the GLE models are available in the line’s exclusive bicolor finishes: Beech cabinet with a silver lacquer front baffle, cherry cabinet with a graphite front panel, and walnut cabinet with silver front baffle.
Additionally, each model is also available in single-color black ash, or silver lacquer finishes.
Canton is the largest manufacturer and best-selling brand of loudspeakers in Germany. It was founded in 1973 by a group of audio enthusiasts who defined their mission “to always develop the finest loudspeakers in their class.” For more information about this and other fine Canton products, visit http://www.cantonusa.com or call 612-706-9250.
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