AC266-WH vs C222HP-TOP-B — Compare
JBL AC266-WH 12" 2-way full-range system, white vs JBL C222HP-TOP Top Section Only - Cinema ScreenArray B-Stock
The JBL AC266-WH is a complete, portable 12" full-range system built for live events and flexible installations, while the JBL C222HP-TOP is half of a cinema-grade reference monitor requiring a matching bottom section and biamp setup for post-production studios. Choose the AC266-WH if you need an all-in-one solution for touring or venues; choose the C222HP-TOP only if you already own or plan to purchase the C222HP-BOT and have professional cinema/dubbing infrastructure.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
JBL AC266-WH 12" 2-way full-range system, white
JBL C222HP-TOP Top Section Only - Cinema ScreenArray B-Stock
Specs side by side
| JBL AC266-WH 12" 2-way full-range system, white | JBL C222HP-TOP Top Section Only - Cinema ScreenArray B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,550.00 | $1,668.00 |
| Brand | JBL | JBL |
| Speaker Type | Ceiling | — |
| Install Type | Installed | — |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose JBL AC266-WH 12" 2-way full-range system, white
- ✓ Complete, ready-to-use 2-way system requiring no additional components
- ✓ 97 dB sensitivity delivers solid output from modest power input
- ✓ Compact 12-inch woofer and white finish suit temporary or semi-permanent installations
- ✓ Dual Neutrik NL4 connectors and M10 rigging points enable flexible deployment
Why choose JBL C222HP-TOP Top Section Only - Cinema ScreenArray B-Stock
- ✓ Cinema-grade 44 Hz–18 kHz response with asymmetrical coverage engineered for screen channels
- ✓ High output capability: 103 dB LF and 112 dB HF sensitivity for large venues
- ✓ B-Stock pricing provides cost savings on professional reference-grade hardware
- ✓ Biamp-only design allows independent crossover and level control for precision monitoring
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the C222HP-TOP alone without the bottom section?
No. The C222HP-TOP is the upper section only and requires the separately sold C222HP-BOT lower section to form a complete loudspeaker. The top section alone cannot function as a standalone monitor.
Which is better for live sound or touring?
The AC266-WH is purpose-built for portable live performance and temporary installations. The C222HP-TOP is a cinema reference monitor component and requires biamp amplification, making it unsuitable for mobile touring.
What frequency range does each cover?
The AC266-WH covers 80 Hz–18 kHz (±3 dB), adequate for general full-range work. The complete C222HP system reaches 44 Hz–18 kHz (–3 dB) and 40 Hz–20 kHz (–6 dB), extending lower for cinema and precision studio work.
How much amplifier power do I need?
The AC266-WH achieves 121 dB SPL from moderate power input due to its 97 dB sensitivity. The C222HP-TOP requires separate LF (1200 W AES at 4 Ω) and HF (85 W AES at 8 Ω) channels, demanding a professional biamp setup.