G.I.P. Laboratory
Western Electric Heritage Systems
The G.I.P. Philosophy: The Pinnacle of Field-Coil Fidelity
G.I.P. Laboratory of Japan builds extraordinary loudspeaker systems based on the revered Western Electric theatre systems from the 1930s. Their philosophy is that the Field-Coil (electromagnet) driver—rather than a conventional permanent magnet—provides a speed, accuracy, and dynamic realism unmatched in modern audio. Every G.I.P. component is handcrafted, often using pure iron and other specialized materials, to resurrect the absolute best in high-efficiency, horn-loaded audio.
G.I.P. Laboratory Loudspeakers
G.I.P. 9700A Horn Loudspeaker
The 9700A is G.I.P.’s flagship loudspeaker system. Utilizing the G.I.P. 9000 series field coil tweeter, compression driver, and woofers, the 9700 is an absolute no compromise modern take on vintage Western Electric theater sound systems. The system uses 2 18” field coil woofers per side, a field coil midrange driver containing the ultimate cobalt/iron magnetic structure, and the 9501 tweeter, which surpasses the legendary Western Electric 597A. The cabinet and horn are made of beautiful Japanese Cherry Blossom wood. This is for the music lover who wants unrestricted dynamics and inner detail. The final stop for music reproduction in the home.
G.I.P. 4165 Horn Loudspeaker
In 1933, the original Western Electric 4165 theater loudspeakers were spec’d into small theaters that sat about 200 people. They use the full range replica G.I.P. 4165 field-coil woofer and a choice of any of G.I.P.’s incredible tweeters. The open baffle is quite modern looking with its sculpted angles. It offers a huge sonic picture and can be placed in mid to large sized rooms. It comes with adjustable treble attenuation.
Specifications
Sensitivity 105db
Impedance 8 ohms
G.I.P. 506 Horn Loudspeaker
The 506 is a large 3-way speaker system that use G.I.P.’s field-coil speaker components. It uses the G.I.P. 597A tweeter, 5016 mid compression driver, and 18” 4181A woofer, all replicas of early Western Electric components. This will give the listener the same large scale presentation that one would experience from legendary early Western Electric theater systems. It offers incredible dynamics with buttery highs, present mids, and colossal, yet tuneful extended bass. Fully adjustable mid and treble attenuation.
Specifications
Sensitivity 110db
Impedance 16 ohms
G.I.P. 225 Horn Loudspeaker
The 225 is a two way full field-coil loudspeaker designed for mid-size rooms. The vintage style cabinets hold a horn mounted GIP 4189 full range 8” woofer. On top of the cabinet sits the mighty 597A horn tweeter, originally designed in 1928 and is still considered by many as the best ever made. The system comes with field-coil power supplies and adjustable attenuators for the tweeter output.
G.I.P. FX350 Horn Loudspeaker
The FX350 is G.I.P.’s latest innovation: a three-way horn system built with their Western Electric inspired permanent magnet speaker components. It delivers stunning dynamics, rich tonality, and remarkable 3D realism. Housed in beautifully crafted enclosures with an Art Deco inspired design, the FX350 makes a visual statement as striking as its sound.
Designed to be placed just inches from the rear wall, the FX350 offers exceptional performance without dominating your floor space. Each cabinet houses two 12” woofers, a 4” diaphragm compression midrange mounted to a metal exponential horn, and the TW-38 tweeter.
G.I.P. 5016 Mid-Range Compression Driver (506 Loudspeaker)
The 5016 is a critical component—a specialized Field-Coil compression driver—that provides the highly accurate and immediate midrange resolution necessary for the flagship G.I.P. systems.
G.I.P. 597A Field-Coil Tweeter (506 Loudspeaker)
The 597A tweeter utilizes Field-Coil technology to deliver incredibly fast, detailed, and non-fatiguing high frequencies. Its performance is essential for the superior clarity and dynamic control of the G.I.P. systems.
G.I.P. Laboratory Loudspeaker Comparison
Model | Design | Key consideration |
|---|---|---|
G.I.P. 9700A | Flagship horn system | Large-scale system with multiple field-coil drivers |
G.I.P. 4165 | Open-baffle horn system | Adjustable treble attenuation; intended for mid-to-large rooms |
G.I.P. 506 | Three-way horn system | High-sensitivity design with adjustable midrange and treble attenuation |
G.I.P. 225 | Two-way field-coil system | Designed for mid-size rooms; includes external field-coil power supplies |
G.I.P. FX350 | Three-way horn system | Permanent-magnet drivers; designed for placement close to the rear wall |
Choosing a G.I.P. Laboratory Loudspeaker
G.I.P. Laboratory loudspeakers are specialized systems inspired by classic Western Electric designs. Choosing a model involves more than comparing driver configurations. Room dimensions, placement options, listening distance, amplification, and the requirements of field-coil components should all be considered.
- Room and placement: Consider the available space, listening position, and how close the speakers can be placed to walls.
- Amplifier matching: High-efficiency horn systems have different amplification requirements from many conventional loudspeakers.
- Field-coil power supplies: Models using field-coil drivers require the appropriate power supply and setup.
- System configuration: Confirm the included drivers, controls, and available options for the specific model.
Our team can help you evaluate these considerations and explore compatible G.I.P. Laboratory amplification .
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Frequently Asked Questions About G.I.P. Laboratory Loudspeakers
G.I.P. Laboratory loudspeakers are among the most unique and technically specialized systems in high-end audio. The following questions address key aspects of their design, technology, and performance.
G.I.P. loudspeakers use field-coil drivers instead of conventional permanent magnets, allowing for greater control over the magnetic field and improved dynamic performance. This technology, combined with horn-loaded designs, produces a highly detailed and lifelike sound presentation.
Yes. G.I.P. systems are inspired by classic Western Electric theater loudspeakers from the early 20th century, which are widely regarded as some of the most influential designs in audio history. The company recreates and refines these designs using modern materials and engineering techniques.
Yes. Field-coil loudspeakers require external power supplies and careful system matching with amplification and room acoustics. Professional setup and consultation are highly recommended to achieve optimal performance.
A field-coil loudspeaker uses an electromagnet to create the magnetic field that drives its speaker motor. Unlike a conventional permanent-magnet driver, it requires a separate power supply to energize the field coil.
Yes. Field-coil models require dedicated power supplies. The correct configuration depends on the specific loudspeaker, so setup should be confirmed with the manufacturer or an experienced specialist.
Suitability depends on the specific model, room dimensions, and placement options. Some G.I.P. systems are physically substantial, so it is important to discuss your room and listening setup before choosing.
They can be considered with suitable tube amplification, but compatibility depends on the loudspeaker's sensitivity, impedance, and the amplifier's output. In Living Stereo also offers G.I.P. Laboratory amplification .
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Experience G.I.P. Laboratory in Our NoHo Showroom
G.I.P. Laboratory systems are highly customized and complex, requiring expert knowledge for setup and component matching. Our specialists provide deep consultation on the unique requirements of Field-Coil power supplies, horn alignment, and system integration with high-efficiency tube amplifiers.