Tower Speaker Reviews

Subwoofer: CSS10
Connections: Line-level stereo and LFE mono inputs
Enclosure Type: Vented
Woofer (size in inches, type): 10, polymer-cellulose cone Power Rating (watts): 150 RMS
Crossover Bypass: LFE input
Available Finishes: Gloss-black front, gray sides
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 18.25 x 13.25 x 16
Weight (pounds): 43
Price: $429

Speaker: CST55 tower CSC55 center
Type: Two-way, dual woofers Two-way, dual woofers
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 0.75, titanium-laminate dome 0.75, titanium-laminate dome
Woofer (size in inches, type): 5, polymer-cellulose cone (2) 5, polymer-cellulose cone (2)
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8 8
Recommended Amp Power (watts): 50—300 50—300
Available Finishes: Gloss-black front, gray sides Gloss-black front, gray sides
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 46 x 8 x 6.5 6.25 x 26.25 x 4.25
Weight (pounds): 17 10
Price: $379/each $329

Ratings: JBL Cinema Sound Speaker System

Build Quality: 90
• JBL's drivers make adroit use of composite materials
• Two-tone look is both distinctive and tasteful

Value: 96
• Combination of great looks and solid sound is rare in this price range
• Proof that good speakers aren't just for the rich

Features: 90
• Behind the woofers are a beefy motor structure and neodymium magnets
• Fixed crossover in sub, as well as an LFE input

Performance: 96
• A degree of neutrality that's rare in slim speaker designs
• Midrange neither bright nor recessed

Ergonomics: 89
• Slim form factor insinuates itself into an elegant room
• The binding posts on the towers accept only spade lugs and bare wire

Overall Rating: 93
JBL speakers usually have engaging personalities at attractive prices, but this new series marks a departure. They're still affordable—but never has JBL achieved this degree of sonic neutrality with this degree of aesthetic elegance. The Cinema Sound series is JBL's first 21st-century masterpiece. General information

CST55 Tower Speaker, $379/each
CSC55 Center-Channel Speaker, $329
CSS10 Subwoofer, $429
JBL Consumer Products
(516) 255-4JBL
www.jbl.com