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These are an excellent example of mid 1970s Cerwin-Vega often regarded as the best era for the brand and better than many of its contemporaries (Klipsch, JBL etc). Th aesthetic is distinctive and largely unlike later Cerwin-Vega models indicative of the logo badge that only was on the speakers from 1974-77.The bass woofer on the bottom was recently re-edged / refooamed (not re-coned) by Sertech Electronics in San Jose - they are one of the best in the bay area for vintage audio restoration. All components, drivers , crossover and speakers are original. The soundstage on these is unbelievable, incredibly clear and detail highs and mids with thumping bass from the unorthodox floor facing 12" woofer. Not to mention they look great with the grilles off (which are also original). These speakers were considered extremely high end and near flagship in the late 1970s.Additionally both speakers have tone controls to dial in your preference if higher frequencies. To my knowledge there is not a single other pair on the internet in this condition and great care has been taken to restore these speakers to original glory without altering the core components. The enclose is all original as well and was polished and cleaned so that it can fit excellently in any listening setting.You will probably not hear or see anything like it for a while so act fast before they are gone!Spec / Info:The 12T has a down firing 12" 122W4 woofer, a 5" midrange, and a horn tweeter. The 12TR adds a rear firing horn tweeter. The 12TRs are rated for 100 watts, or 200 watts if you use the CV DB-10 bass booster, which also cuts off anything below 20hz. The efficiency is 102dB at 1 watt at 1 meterDesign: 4-driver, 3-way configuration in a specialized tower enclosure.Sensitivity: 102 dB (1W @ 1m), making it incredibly easy to drive with low-power tube or solid-state amps.Frequency Response: 32 Hz – 20 kHz (approximate).Crossover Point: ~3,500 Hz for the tweeters. 150 hz for bassImpedance: 4–8 Ohms.Cabinet: Heavy-duty build, roughly 105 liters in volume and weighing 88–95 lbs each.Controls: Rear-mounted L-pad adjustments for both high and mid frequencies.Height: 40.25 inches (approx. 101–102 cm)Width: 13.75 inches (approx. 35 cm)Depth: 13.75 inches (approx. 35 cm)
This US$2,999 asking price for the used Cerwin-Vega 2-way is ambitious, sitting well above the 75th percentile of US$2,274 and significantly higher than the median of US$1,549 derived from recent comparable listings. With the 25th percentile at just US$825, this listing commands roughly double the typical market value, making it a tough sell unless the condition is truly museum-grade or includes rare extras.
Cerwin-Vega speakers are well-regarded for their bold, energetic sound and high power handling, often delivering serious impact in home or car setups. If this pair is genuinely in excellent condition with original grilles, boxes, and no damage, the upgrade in build quality and sonic punch could justify the premium for a dedicated buyer. However, at this price point, buyers should verify the age, confirm all drivers are intact, and ensure no hidden wear exists—otherwise, waiting for a unit closer to the US$1,500 median is a smarter move.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Cerwin-Vega traces its roots to 1954, when aerospace engineer Gene Czerwinski founded the company in the United States as Vega Associates. Driven by a passion to replicate live musical performances at home, Czerwinski assembled a team of engineers to pioneer high-efficiency loudspeakers, starting with massive 18-inch systems capable of 130 dB at 30 Hz. The brand quickly expanded in the 1960s, supplying drivers and designs to guitar amp giants like Fender, Acoustic, Sunn, and Vox, cementing its early reputation for raw power and innovation.
The company specializes in loudspeakers and high-output audio systems, with a legacy of pro audio woofers, home theater towers, and bass-heavy enclosures that deliver thunderous low-end response. Early milestones included the world's first solid-state amplifier in 1957, influenced by Czerwinski's sonar designs, though its core focus remains on durable, high-SPL drivers for professional, hi-fi, and mobile applications rather than turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables.
Cerwin-Vega occupies a mid-tier market position, revered by pro audio professionals, hi-fi enthusiasts, and car audio fans for value-driven performance that punches above its price. Its cult-like loyalty stems from decades of bass mastery, evoking vintage appeal while sustaining modern relevance through robust, no-nonsense gear that prioritizes impact over refinement.
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