AC266 vs AC566 — Compare
JBL AC266 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker with 1 x 12 LF vs JBL AC566 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker System with 1 x 15 LF
The AC266 is a nimble, articulate choice for touring and live gigs where cut-through and detail matter most; the AC566 trades some midrange pop for deeper bass extension and slightly higher peak output, making it better suited to larger venues or situations where low-end command is critical. Choose the AC266 for high-clarity touring rigs, the AC566 for heavy-duty live performance and studio work.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
JBL AC266 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker with 1 x 12 LF
JBL AC566 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker System with 1 x 15 LF
Specs side by side
| JBL AC266 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker with 1 x 12 LF | JBL AC566 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker System with 1 x 15 LF | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,400.00 | $1,400.00 |
| Brand | JBL | JBL |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose JBL AC266 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker with 1 x 12 LF
- ✓ Higher sensitivity at 97 dB makes it louder from lower input power
- ✓ Punchy, articulate midrange cuts through in loud environments
- ✓ More compact and tour-friendly for frequent moves
- ✓ Crystalline vocal presence ideal for speech and acoustic instruments
Why choose JBL AC566 Two-Way Full-Range Loudspeaker System with 1 x 15 LF
- ✓ Larger 15-inch woofer delivers deeper, more resonant low-end
- ✓ Slightly higher peak SPL at 128 dB for bigger venues
- ✓ Extended frequency range down to 60 Hz maintains fuller bass response
- ✓ Suitable for both live and studio monitoring roles
Frequently asked questions
What's the main difference in low-end character?
The AC266 has a 12-inch woofer with tight, controlled bass definition; the AC566's 15-inch woofer delivers deeper, more resonant lows that extend down to 60 Hz versus the AC266's 63 Hz floor. The AC566 is better for venues where rumbling foundation matters.
Which speaker is better for touring and mobility?
The AC266 is the touring standard—more compact, lighter footprint, and excellent sensitivity mean it works harder with less power. The AC566 is heavier and larger, better suited to semi-permanent or installed rigs.
Can I use either in the studio?
The AC266 is optimized for live performance and will sound punchy but slightly forward in the studio. The AC566 explicitly supports studio sessions and has more controlled off-axis response, making it more suitable for mixed live and studio use.
Are the SPL outputs significantly different?
The AC266 maxes at 121 dB SPL (127 dB peak) while the AC566 reaches 122 dB SPL (128 dB peak)—less than 1 dB difference. However, the AC266's higher sensitivity (97 dB) means it reaches those levels from lower input power, while the AC566 needs more drive to peak.