Canton GLE 50 Center S2 white

Second generation of the GLE series, this center speaker takes up the proven formula of its predecessor while adopting the new ATB drivers developed by Canton. The format remains compact, the enclosure remains sealed, but the cones are now black and the tweeter benefits from a redesigned waveguide. A change in substance more than in style.

A sealed enclosure for dialogue

The choice of a sealed cabinet is not insignificant for a center speaker. Unlike bass-reflex systems, a sealed load delivers faster transients and tighter bass, two essential qualities for voice reproduction. Dialogue gains in clarity, consonants remain distinct even during the densest action scenes. The trade-off lies in low-frequency extension: the GLE 50 Center S2 goes down to 30 Hz according to the manufacturer’s data, but the level will naturally be lower in the infrabass than with a bass-reflex design of equivalent volume. In a multichannel system, the subwoofer generally takes over below 80–120 Hz, which puts this limitation into perspective.

ATB cones shared with the Vento series

For the GLE S2 series, Canton has adopted the cone manufacturing process developed for its higher-end Vento range. The two 154 mm drivers feature aluminum-titanium cones treated with a chemical process that creates a black microporous surface. This ATB (Aluminium Titanium Black) finish increases rigidity without adding weight to the cone, which improves transient handling and reduces coloration in the midrange.

The 2.5-way configuration means the two drivers do not operate in the same way: one covers the bass and lower midrange, the other focuses on the midrange up to the crossover frequency with the tweeter, set at 3000 Hz. Reinforced polycarbonate baskets and triple-fold surrounds maintain precise control of cone movement, even at high levels.

An AB tweeter with integrated waveguide

The 25 mm dome tweeter uses a treated aluminum diaphragm (AB, Aluminium Black) and sits in a waveguide that widens the listening area. The stated response extends up to 40,000 Hz, well beyond audibility, which attests to well-controlled behavior at the top of the spectrum. For a center speaker, this wider horizontal dispersion offers a concrete advantage: listeners seated off-axis perceive highs that are consistent with those from the center.

Integration and finishes

At 50 cm wide, 17 cm high, and 27 cm deep, the GLE 50 Center S2 fits under most TVs placed on a low stand. It can also be mounted on the dedicated LS 660 stand, sold separately, for ear-level placement. The front panel features a satin finish (black or white depending on the version), and the oval fabric grille attaches magnetically. Three finishes are available: black, white, and Makassar.

The 8.5 kg weight reflects solid construction. For connection, the speaker accepts banana plugs or bare wires via a standard terminal block. Impedance varies between 4 and 8 ohms depending on frequency: a home theater amplifier stable at 4 ohms will make the most of the 89 dB sensitivity.

System combinations within the GLE S2 series

Canton has designed the GLE 50 Center S2 to work with the other models in the range. The GLE 70 S2 or GLE 90 S2 floorstanding speakers can be used for the main channels, while the compact GLE 20 S2 or GLE 30 S2 handle the rear. The Power Sub 12 S2 subwoofer completes the setup for low frequencies. The tonal consistency across all these speakers simplifies processor configuration and prevents tonal shifts during sound pans.

Technical specifications

Acoustic configuration

• Type: center speaker
• Design: 2½-way, sealed enclosure
• Crossover frequencies: 400 / 3000 Hz

Performance

• Frequency response: 30 – 40000 Hz
• Nominal / music power: 80 / 140 watts
• Sensitivity (2.83 V / 1 m): 89 dB
• Impedance: 4 – 8 ohms

Drivers

• Bass: 1 × 15.4 cm, Aluminium Titanium Black (ATB)
• Midrange: 1 × 15.4 cm, Aluminium Titanium Black (ATB)
• Treble: 1 × 2.5 cm, Aluminium Black (AB)

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 50 × 17 × 27 cm
• Weight: 8.5 kg