Grateful Dead Music Forum

I was checking out the Weber site, specifically the California Ceramic 12" listing.

https://taweber.powweb.com/weber/cali12f.htm

I guess I was under impression that the California was Weber's entry into the JBL-type speaker. While it does state "JBL D120F tone" it also states "If you are considering the California, and want clean AND overdrive tones, check out the Ceramic Chicago." A look at the Chicago listing shows that the dust cap is smaller in diameter and not aluminum as the California (option).

https://taweber.powweb.com/weber/chicago12f.htm

Just prior to checking the Weber site, I read a post on ProSoundWeb that states that the cap material does contribute to sound coloration and tone.

http://srforums.prosoundweb.com/index.p ... 5&th=51607

So, anyone care to offer an opinion on the dust cap material making that significant of a difference in overall tone? I have read several threads with Californina users on the board. Has anyone owned or heard the Chicago?

I'll hang up and listen (just a little talk radio flair).

Thanks.

I have both the Michigan and the California 15" 4ohm speakers with black paper dust caps (look like the two in the middle in the Weber pic).
They both sound great to me with Twin Reverb type amps. My JBL E120's are notably brighter sounding and obviously psychologically more Jerry sounding .
I mainly use 15" speakers for Pedal Steel, and the Cali/Mich 100W-ish power rating scares me a little... cuz I run them with 200 watt power amps (I try to keep 'em only turned up about halfway).
I have not tried a Chicago.

Dude, do a search. Lots of talk about the Cali.

Bottom line - the Weber NeoMag is their answer to JBL. The Cali is just a flatter response voiced speaker. It sound decent, but not JBLish.

I have a pair of Weber California 12's in my cab and I think they sound great. Good speakers, loud, clear and won't kill the wallet.