JBL Professional
ActiveOverview
JBL Professional is the professional audio division of Harman International, specializing in loudspeakers, studio monitors, PA systems, and audio solutions for recording studios, live sound, touring, cinema, broadcast, and commercial installations.125 It serves markets including live performance, installed sound, and cinema, with products used in 70 percent of professional venues such as recording studios, concert venues, and movie theaters.5 The brand is noted for its long history in professional audio, including contributions to the THX loudspeaker standard and use by touring acts and major events.1
History
JBL was founded in 1946 by James Bullough Lansing in the United States.1 In 1969, it was sold to the Jervis Corporation, later renamed Harman International.1 The 1970s marked expansion in professional audio with studio monitors and the bestselling L-100 consumer speaker, alongside growth in tour sound and cinema applications.1 Key milestones include the 1955 integration into Fender amplifiers, 1962 first 2-way studio monitor, 2000 EVO DSP loudspeaker launch, and 2002 VerTec use at major events like the Super Bowl.1
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Monitors | precision nearfield and midfield monitoring | $300 - $3,000 |
| Live Sound PA Systems | touring and performance reinforcement | $1,000 - $50,000+ |
| Installed Sound Loudspeakers | commercial and venue installations | $200 - $5,000 |
| Cinema Systems | movie theater screen and surround | $5,000 - $100,000+ |
| Portable PA Systems | portable event and presentation sound | $500 - $4,000 |
| Line Arrays (VerTec) | large-scale concert touring | $10,000 - $200,000 |
Manufacturing
JBL Professional products are designed in the United States with facilities associated in California and Arkansas.14 Manufacturing details indicate a mix of in-house design and global production through Harman International's network, though specific assembly locations are not detailed in sources.24
Notable Products
- VerTec Line Array - Line array system used for major tours, Super Bowl, and Grammy Awards.
- L100 Speaker - Bestselling loudspeaker model from the 1970s that boosted brand recognition.
- EON Portable PA - Portable powered speakers for live and presentation applications.
- ScreenArray - Cinema loudspeaker system for movie theater installations.
- Paragon - 1958 one-piece stereo speaker system.
- EVO - 2000 DSP-controlled loudspeaker.
Reputation
JBL Professional is regarded by professionals for reliability, sound quality, and widespread use in studios, tours, and venues.25 Enthusiasts and engineers value its heritage in innovations like early studio monitors and THX standards.1 Some note a shift toward mass-market products in consumer lines, though professional gear maintains strong industry trust.1