JBL 4344MKII (1996)

The JBL 4344MKII is a four-way, four-speaker bass reflex system. JBL released it in 1996 as a refinement of its earlier 4344 reference monitor. It was priced at ¥620,000 per unit at launch. Period documentation states the design goal as low distortion and wide-range reproduction while keeping the dynamics JBL monitors were known for.

The driver lineup is a serious one. The low end is a 38 cm cone woofer (model ME150HS), a new 15-inch transducer developed specifically for this speaker. It uses a high-rigidity fiber composite cone with an Aqua Plus coating and an SFG (symmetrical field geometry) magnetic circuit. The mid-low band uses a 25 cm cone unit (2123H). For the mid and high range, there's a 5 cm driver (275nd) with a 1-inch throat horn and a neodymium magnet, paired with an acoustic lens for improved sound localization. The top end is a 2405H ring radiator, the classic JBL slot tweeter. Crossover points are 340 Hz, 1.3 kHz, and 8 kHz.

The network section separates the low-frequency and mid-low boards to prevent band interference. The mid/high network uses a charge-coupled linear definition design, which essentially biases the capacitors to run in class A and eliminate zero-cross distortion. Bi-amp and bi-wire hookups are supported, and each band has its own attenuator to adjust output levels. The cabinet is bass reflex, built from the same high-density MDF used in JBL's K2 series, and the binding posts accept very thick cable. Sensitivity is rated at 95 dB/2.83V/m, impedance at 6 ohms, and power handling at 200W (IEC). Frequency response is 30 Hz to 22 kHz (-6dB). Each speaker measures 635 x 1,051 x 383 mm and weighs 81.9 kg.

Documentation on this model is thinner than its reputation might suggest. Beyond the Japanese-market spec sheet and a handful of listings, there's little period press coverage in English. One Audiofanzine user review noted the MKII's evolution over earlier 4343/4344 models, particularly the 25 cm mid and the neodymium compression driver. A used pair in excellent condition has been listed at $8,299.99. Another Craigslist listing appeared at $1,000/pair, with the grilles missing and the woofer surrounds needing replacement - a common maintenance item on these older JBL woofers.

Known Specs

• Type: 4-way, 4-speaker, bass reflex, bookshelf type
• Drivers: 38 cm woofer (ME150HS), 25 cm mid-low (2123H), 5 cm mid/high with 1" horn (275nd), 2405H ring radiator
• Crossover: 340 Hz, 1.3 kHz, 8 kHz
• Frequency response: 30 Hz – 22 kHz (-6dB)
• Sensitivity: 95 dB / 2.83V/m
• Impedance: 6 ohms
• Power handling: 200W (IEC)
• Dimensions: 635 x 1,051 x 383 mm (depth 435 mm with lens and grille)
• Weight: 81.9 kg
• Price at launch: ¥620,000 (1 unit, 1996)

eBay Listings

JBL 4301, 4344, 4344MkII, 4345, 4355, 4401, 4425, 4430, 4435

$65.00

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