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DIY JBL 2405, Altec 511, 802d, 414a Petite Onken Floorstanding Loudspeakers A great way to step into the world of horn speakers, with the hard work and development already done. Beautifully built with high quality components. Built by a Melbourne local who has been working with horn speakers for many years. He also built the crossover, carefully tuned for this speaker (takes experience to do well). Crossover components are high quality, Jupiter, Audyn etc. Tweeters JBL2405 (16 ohm) Mid Compression drivers Altec 802D (16 ohm) original diaphragms Mid Horns Altec 511-B Low frequency 12” Woofe
At A$6,750, this is in the fair-to-strong zone for a serious vintage JBL/Altec horn setup, but the benchmark is a bit fuzzy because the title reads like a bundle and the exact configuration matters a lot. If it’s a complete, working pair with desirable JBL 2405 slots, Altec 511 horns, and 802D compression drivers in decent condition, the asking price is reasonable rather than cheap; if anything is missing, mismatched, or needs diaphragm work, the value drops quickly.
What makes it worth chasing is the classic horn presentation: high sensitivity, big dynamic scale, and that effortless midrange/treble projection these parts are known for. The upside is strongest if the cabinets, drivers, and crossover work are original or neatly documented, with no crackle, horn damage, or tired diaphragms. If the listing includes proof of matching pairs and recent service, it becomes a very credible buy for a collector or horn fan.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
JBL traces its roots to 1946, when pioneering audio engineer James Bullough Lansing founded the company in Los Angeles, California, initially as James B. Lansing Sound, Incorporated. A veteran of loudspeaker design from earlier ventures like the Lansing Manufacturing Company and collaborations on Hollywood's first practical cinema systems, Lansing infused JBL with his relentless pursuit of acoustic clarity and fidelity. Though he passed away in 1949 amid financial strains, the brand endured under new leadership, accelerating in 1969 with acquisition by Harman International—now under Samsung—fueling global expansion and innovation.
JBL excels across professional and consumer audio realms, renowned for its loudspeakers that dominate studios, touring rigs, cinemas, and home setups. Iconic models like the D-130 woofer, Paragon stereophonic system, and L-100 Century defined eras of high-output sound, while modern lines span portable Bluetooth speakers, wireless headphones, soundbars, and pro monitors. The brand prioritizes robust transducers, advanced horns, and diamond-surround tech over niche components like turntables, DACs, or cables.
Positioned as a mid-tier powerhouse with pro-grade heritage, JBL commands respect among discerning buyers for delivering punchy, reliable performance at accessible prices, bridging live-event energy and home listening without high-end esoterica. Its vintage icons draw collectors, yet contemporary ubiquity in arenas and everyday gear cements market dominance for those valuing scale and excitement over boutique refinement.
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