JBL K2 (Late 1990s)
The JBL K2 line is a family of flagship loudspeakers that JBL created to mark its half-century of loudspeaker design. The record covers three distinct models in the series - the K2 S9500, the K2 S9800, and the K2 M9500 - and they shouldn't be mixed up. As The Absolute Sound put it, the S9800 is not a renamed S9500 but a redesigned loudspeaker that looks superficially identical. A period review noted that the JBL L7's low-frequency output could keep up with reference systems, with extended and smooth sound (Audio, December 1992, p.126). The JBL L7's sound was well balanced, somewhat up-front, with extended frequency response and excellent dynamics (Audio, December 1992, p.126).
The K2 S9500 is the best-documented of the three. Described by HiFi-Classic.net as JBL's flagship in the late 1990s, it's a massive 4-way bass-reflex system weighing 88 kg (194 lbs) per speaker, measuring 430 × 614 × 438 mm. It uses two 12-inch woofers in an acoustic suspension enclosure, a 3-inch beryllium compression driver for midrange (mounted on a 4-inch horn), and a 1.5-inch beryllium compression driver for highs (on a 1-inch bi-radial horn). Crossover points are 240 Hz, 1.5 kHz, and 8 kHz. Sensitivity is rated at 94 dB/2.83 V/1 m, nominal impedance 6 ohms, frequency range 38 Hz–45 kHz, and recommended amplifier power 50–800 W. HiFi-Classic.net noted the S9500 was a commercial success despite its high price, and that it remains sought-after on the used market, often fetching prices near its original MSRP.
The K2 S9800, reviewed by The Absolute Sound, shares the S9500's cabinet and driver complement, including the beryllium compression drivers and 12-inch woofers. It uses a different crossover network and revised port tuning. The review called it a world-class loudspeaker with extraordinary dynamics and resolution. It also noted a slightly "live" or forward tonal balance, and a need for a large room and very high-quality amplification. The horn-loaded midrange and treble have exceptional clarity but aren't forgiving of poor recordings.
The K2 M9500, documented by HiFi-Archiv and an archived JBL.com page, lists specs essentially identical to the S9500: 38 Hz–45 kHz frequency range, 94 dB sensitivity, 6 ohm impedance, 50–800 W power handling, and the same 240 Hz / 1.5 kHz / 8 kHz crossover points. No reception data exists for this variant.
One caution applies across the K2 line. The beryllium compression drivers are extremely fragile and can be damaged by excessive amplifier power. Replacement diaphragms are no longer available from JBL, and finding qualified service is difficult. The crossover capacitors are aging and may need rebuilding.
- K2 S9500: 4-way bass-reflex, 94 dB/2.83 V/1 m, 38 Hz–45 kHz, 6 ohms, 50–800 W, 88 kg each
- K2 S9800: Redesigned S9500 with different crossover and port tuning; same beryllium drivers and woofers
- K2 M9500: Specs match S9500 per HiFi-Archiv; no reception data
No production years, original prices, or dimensions for the S9800 and M9500 are documented. The 1980s professional studio monitor that originally carried the K2 name is not covered in the available sources.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- JBL 075
- JBL 077
- JBL 120Ti
- JBL 124A
- JBL 124H
- Braun AUDIO-1 (1965)
- Braun AUDIO-250 (1965)
- Magnavox Component Systems (1972)
- Acoustic Research AR (1967-1976)
- Acoustic Research 11