JBL 3182 (1985–1990)
The JBL 3182 was a compact, high-output stage monitor aimed at the club and touring sound market of the mid-1980s. It belongs to the 3180 series, which also included the 3180 (1×10″), the 3181 (1×12″), and the 3183 (1×15″). The 3182 is a 2-way design built around a single JBL 2205H 12-inch woofer and a 2417 compression driver on a 2371 horn, crossing over at 1.2 kHz. The cabinet is trapezoidal and ported, finished in black carpet with a perforated steel grille, and has six 3/8″ threaded points for eyebolts. Connectors are two Speakons plus a 1/4″ phone jack.
The known specs are solid. Frequency range is listed at 60 Hz - 18 kHz (±4 dB) with response at 70 Hz - 16 kHz (±4 dB). Sensitivity is 95 dB SPL (1W/1m), and power handling is rated at 300 W continuous with 1200 W peak into 8 ohms. It weighs 55 lb and measures 23.75″ × 18.5″ × 14.5″. There is one point of confusion in the record. The series lineup listing suggests "2×12″" for the 3182, but the detailed spec sheet points to one 12″ driver. So does the design lineage note, which describes it as a two-way version of the 3183 sharing the same horn but with a single 12-inch woofer. The detailed specs are the better source than the shorthand lineup listing.
Owners describe the 3182 as having huge, punchy low end for a 12-inch cabinet and strong mid-range presence for vocals. Some note the high end can get harsh on certain horn drivers when pushed hard. Workshop of Vintage Audio calls it a great-sounding classic. The original foam surrounds on the 2205H tend to rot and need replacement. Aftermarket surrounds are available, and the 2205H itself is a popular, affordable driver that's relatively easy to re-cone. Many owners also recommend replacing the crossover capacitors and pairing the 3182 with a JBL/UREI 6260 or JBL 6290 amplifier. Used prices typically run $200 - $400 per cabinet depending on condition.
No original MSRP has surfaced, and the production run is documented only as 1985-1990 from a single source. Dispersion specs, port tuning, and cabinet wood details are likewise unrecorded.
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