JBL 8140H (1980)

The JBL 8140H is a two-way bookshelf loudspeaker introduced in 1980 at $275 each. It paired an 8-inch woofer (model 108H) with a 1-inch titanium-laminate dome tweeter, crossed over at 2 kHz. The cabinet is bass reflex, and the system is rated at 89 dB sensitivity with a maximum recommended amplifier power of 75 watts. Dimensions are 13-3/4" W x 23" H x 10-1/2" D, and each speaker weighs 35 lb.

The 8140H appears to have been aimed at the commercial/industrial side of JBL's lineup. A 1983 advertisement in Sound and Communication (February 1983, p.29) promoted the JBL Industrial Series loudspeakers with the tagline "what goes up should stay up," emphasizing reliability for distributed sound installations — the 8140H, with its dual binding posts and straightforward 8-ohm design, fits that profile. The titanium-laminate dome tweeter was a notable construction choice for the era, offering stiffness without the weight of a conventional metal dome.

The record on this model is otherwise thin. No period reviews, production end date, or family positioning within JBL's lineup have surfaced. The frequency response is consistently stated as 55 Hz – 20 kHz, though sources disagree on the tolerance window (−10 dB vs. ±3 dB). Known specs:

System type: 2-way, bass reflex, 8 ohms
Drivers: 8" woofer (108H), 1" titanium-laminate dome tweeter (033)
Crossover: 2 kHz
Frequency response: 55 Hz – 20 kHz
Sensitivity: 89 dB (1W/1m)
Power handling: 10–75 watts recommended
Inputs: dual binding posts
Dimensions: 13-3/4" W x 23" H x 10-1/2" D (349 x 584 x 267 mm)
Weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
Original price: $275 each (1980)

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JBL 8140H (1980)

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