Canton GLE 50 Center S2 black

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

A sealed enclosure for dialogue

Choosing an airtight enclosure is no accident for a center speaker. Unlike bass-reflex systems, a sealed cabinet delivers faster transients and tighter bass, two essential qualities for accurate voice reproduction. Dialogue gains in clarity, consonants remain distinct even during the densest action scenes. The trade-off lies in low-frequency extension: according to the manufacturer’s data, the GLE 50 Center S2 goes down to 30 Hz, 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, improving transient handling and reducing 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, while 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 ensure precise control of cone movement, even at high volume.

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 quoted response extends up to 40,000 Hz, well beyond the range of human hearing, indicating controlled behavior at the top of the spectrum. For a center speaker, this wider horizontal dispersion offers a concrete benefit: listeners seated off-axis hear treble that remains consistent with that of the center.

Integration and finishes

At 50 cm wide, 17 cm high, and 27 cm deep, the GLE 50 Center S2 slips 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 weight of 8.5 kg reflects solid construction. For connection, the speaker accepts banana plugs or bare wires via a standard binding post. Impedance varies between 4 and 8 ohms depending on frequency: a home cinema amplifier stable at 4 ohms will make the most of the 89 dB sensitivity.

Combinations within the GLE S2 series

Canton 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 handle the main channels, while the compact GLE 20 S2 or GLE 30 S2 look after the rear channels. The Power Sub 12 S2 subwoofer completes the setup for low frequencies. The consistent tonal balance across all these speakers makes processor configuration easier and avoids 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