JBL 308P MKII Studio Monitors Pair

The JBL 308P MkII studio monitors are a standout choice for audio professionals and enthusiasts seeking high-quality, accurate sound reproduction. Here’s an overview of their features, performance, and pricing:

Features & Specifications (per single unit):

• Monitor Type: Active (Powered) Two-Way Studio Monitor. Each speaker features built-in Class-D amplifiers, removing the need for external amplification.
• Drivers:
  • LF Driver: 8-inch (203mm) long-throw woofer. This larger woofer provides deeper bass response and higher output compared to the 5-inch model.
  • HF Driver: 1-inch (25mm) woven-composite soft-dome tweeter. This tweeter handles high frequencies with clarity.
• Power Configuration: Bi-amplified. Each driver has its own dedicated Class-D amplifier.
  • HF Driver Power Amp: 56W, Class-D
  • LF Driver Power Amp: 56W, Class-D
  • Total Power: 112W (per monitor) – a significant jump from the 305P MkII’s 82W.
• JBL Image Control Waveguide: A cornerstone of the 3 Series MkII, this patented waveguide ensures:
  • Detailed Stereo Imaging: Creates an expansive and precise soundstage, allowing for accurate placement of elements in your mix.
  • Broad Sweet Spot: Maintains consistent and neutral frequency response across a wider listening area, meaning greater accuracy even if your head position shifts slightly.
• Frequency Response:
  • Frequency Response (±3 dB): 45Hz – 20kHz (More extended bass than the 305P MkII)
  • Frequency Range (-10dB): 37Hz – 24kHz
  • Low Frequency Extension (-10dB): 37Hz
• JBL Slip Stream™ Low-Frequency Port: This patented, double-flared port design delivers robust and accurate bass performance at all playback levels, minimizing port turbulence and distortion.
• Acoustic Tuning Controls:
  • Boundary EQ: A three-position switch (0dB, -1.5dB, -3dB) at 50Hz, specifically designed to compensate for the bass build-up that occurs when monitors are placed on a desktop or close to walls.
  • HF Trim Switch: A three-position switch (-2dB, 0dB, +2dB) for fine-tuning the high-frequency output to match your room’s acoustics or personal preference.
• Connectivity: Professional and flexible inputs.
  • 1 x Balanced XLR Female Input
  • 1 x Balanced 1/4″ TRS Female Input
  • Input Sensitivity Switch: Selectable between +4dBu (professional line level) and -10dBV (consumer line level) for compatibility with a wide range of audio interfaces and devices.
• Robust Construction: The enclosure is crafted from 15mm MDF with a matte black PVC finish and an injection-molded structural ABS baffle, ensuring both durability and acoustic integrity.
• JBL Reliability: Engineered to JBL’s Linear Spatial Reference design criteria and subjected to a strenuous 100-hour full-power test for long-term reliability.
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 419 x 254 x 308 mm (16.5″ x 10″ x 12.1″)
• Net Weight (each): 8.1 kg (17.87 lbs)

Performance and Sound Quality:

• Deeper Bass and Greater Output: The primary advantage of the 308P MkII is its ability to reproduce lower frequencies with more authority and impact, and to play louder without distortion. This is crucial for genres with prominent bass (e.g., EDM, hip-hop, film scoring) or for larger mixing rooms.
• Accuracy and Detail: Like its smaller counterpart, it offers a neutral and accurate frequency response, allowing you to hear subtle nuances in your mix.
• Immersive Stereo Imaging: The Image Control Waveguide provides the same excellent soundstage and broad sweet spot, making it easy to critically assess your stereo mix.
• Ideal for Larger Spaces: The increased power and bass extension make the 308P MkII more suitable for larger home studios or smaller professional studios where the 5-inch models might struggle to fill the room with accurate low-end information.
• Versatile for Critical Applications: Excellent for:
  • Music Production: Mixing and mastering across various genres, especially those with demanding bass.
  • Film/Video Post-Production: Accurate monitoring of dialogue, sound effects, and music.
  • Broadcasting: Reliable for monitoring broadcast audio.
  • Professional Home Studios: Provides a high-fidelity listening experience.

JBL 308P MkII vs. JBL 305P MkII (Key Differences):

The main differences boil down to size, power, and low-frequency extension:

The JBL 308P MkII studio monitors offer a blend of advanced technology and affordability, making them a compelling choice for those seeking accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Whether you’re setting up a home studio or upgrading your current setup, these monitors provide the performance and features needed for professional audio work.