Ya, it looks to be that way.Doubt it would be on there if it were having an affect on the tone though.I do remember seeing a documentary about some producers recording studio,where he was showing off all the amps and cabs etc.All the cabs had the the front grills removed and when he was asked why,he said "oh they sound much better with the grills removed,and its much easier to see the speakers",or something along those lines.Not sure of his name.Michael wagner or something.He's done lots of 80's metal i think.Anyway i think that must have been in the back of my mind when i noticed the badge covering both speakers on the recto 2x12.