JBL 2446H/2446J (1992)
The JBL 2446H/2446J is a professional 2-inch throat compression driver, released in 1992. JBL aimed it at sound reinforcement and concert work. Horn enthusiasts and DIY builders still know it, though official documentation is thin and the model has been discontinued for some time.
The driver came in two impedance versions: the 2446H at 8 ohms and the 2446J at 16 ohms. Both share the same 49mm throat and a 100mm pure titanium diaphragm with a diamond-surround edge. JBL said that edge reduced metal fatigue and improved durability. The voice coil is a 100mm edge-rolled aluminum ribbon. A coherent-wave phase plug was used, and combined with the titanium diaphragm it boosted output in the 5 kHz to 20 kHz range. The magnetic circuit uses a ferrite magnet with a flux density of 1.9T.
The specs are those of a serious pro driver. Sensitivity is rated at 111 dB SPL (1W/1m, measured with a Q = 6.3 horn). Frequency range is 500 Hz to 20 kHz at -10 dB, and the recommended minimum crossover is 500 Hz. Power handling is 100W continuous program above 500 Hz, and 150W above 1 kHz. Each driver weighs 13.8 kg and measures 233mm in diameter by 133mm deep.
A 123dj.com listing from the period shows a regular price of $999.99, discounted to $499.99, and marks the driver "No Longer Available." The Japanese market price was ¥109,200 (tax included) per unit around 2007. Replacement diaphragms are still available from aftermarket sources, and the genuine JBL D8R2450 diaphragm is listed as compatible. On forums, owners have compared it favorably to the later 2447, and one Russian user called the mids "gorgeous, powerful and clean." The 2447 is generally regarded as the better driver overall, with improved pattern control and lower distortion.
Beyond the specifications and a handful of user impressions, the historical record is quiet. No official JBL datasheet surfaced in research, and no production end year is documented. The 2446H/2446J was a well-built, high-output professional driver that still sees use in commercial systems and DIY horn projects.
Known Specifications
- Type: High frequency compression driver, 2" throat (49mm)
- Impedance: 2446H: 8 Ω; 2446J: 16 Ω (min. 6 Ω / 12 Ω @ 5 kHz)
- Power handling: 100W continuous program (>500 Hz), 150W (>1 kHz)
- Sensitivity: 111 dB SPL (1W/1m, 2 kHz octave band with Q = 6.3 horn)
- Frequency range: 500 Hz – 20 kHz (-10 dB)
- Diaphragm: Φ 100 mm pure titanium, diamond surround
- Voice coil: Φ 100 mm edge-rolled aluminum ribbon
- Magnet: Ferrite, 1.9T flux density
- Dimensions: 233mm diameter × 133mm depth
- Weight: 13.8 kg
123dj.com (period component listing) noted the driver's increased output in the 5 kHz - 20 kHz range when paired with the Coherent Wave phasing plug.
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