JBL Project Array

We were able to hear the JBL Project Array speakers in JBLs private Hilton suite. They were remarkably clear and we were impressed by the resolution and frequency response of the horn-loaded drivers. These models utilize technologies directly derived from JBL's flagship K2 Series loudspeakers and professional recording studio monitors. Project Array models include the 1400 Array, 1000 Array and 800 Array floorstanding loudspeakers; the Center Array center channel loudspeaker; and the Sub Array powered subwoofer with built-in 1000-watt amplifier.

Paul Bente, president of JBL, pointed out: “Our goal in designing the Project Array loudspeakers was to combine the exceptional dynamic range, transient response and ‘effortless’ quality of horn-loaded compression drivers with the precise imaging, three-dimensional soundstage and articulate low-frequency
impact provided by the finest dynamic drivers. The Project Array series truly offers the best of both designs, along with unsurpassed resolution and a smooth, natural tonal balance that is sure to satisfy the mostdiscriminating home theater enthusiasts and music lovers.”

JBL Compression Driver Technology
The 1400 Array, 1000 Array and 800 Array loudspeakers feature newly designed Bi-Radial horn compression drivers mounted vertically in a freestanding configuration. This design was chosen to eliminate enclosure diffraction effects to provide more stable imaging, along with a wider, more three-dimensional soundstage. The Center Array employs a vertically mounted Bi-Radial compression driver flanked by dual woofers to deliver more detailed reproduction of dialogue and effects, and provide a better sonic blend when multiple Project Array loudspeakers are used in a surround sound home theater system. The configuration we heard was basically four 1000 Array speakers with a center channel and Sub Array.

The vertical Bi-Radial horns incorporate their midrange/high-frequency and ultrahigh-frequency transducers into a unified horn assembly. This design was chosen to optimize the horn’s dispersion pattern and tonal accuracy, both on and off axis. The ultrahigh-frequency transducers used in each model are directly mounted to their loudspeaker diaphragms, achieving high-frequency response to beyond 40kHz. The Bi-Radial design yielded fairly detailed midrange and very clear, open high frequencies without noticeable harshness, even at the rather loud SPL levels encountered in the demo.