JBL-GSB12-GN vs LSR705i — Compare
JBL JBL-GSB12-GN 12" In-Ground Subwoofer, Grn, 1 pc vs JBL LSR705i 5-Inch 2-Way Master Reference Monitor (Requires outboard processor and amplifier)
The JBL-GSB12-GN is an outdoor landscape subwoofer for permanent installations and distributed audio systems, while the LSR705i is a professional studio reference monitor for mastering and critical mixing. These serve completely different applications: one is built into the ground for venues and events, the other sits on a desktop requiring external amplification.
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JBL JBL-GSB12-GN 12" In-Ground Subwoofer, Grn, 1 pc
JBL LSR705i 5-Inch 2-Way Master Reference Monitor (Requires outboard processor and amplifier)
Specs side by side
| JBL JBL-GSB12-GN 12" In-Ground Subwoofer, Grn, 1 pc | JBL LSR705i 5-Inch 2-Way Master Reference Monitor (Requires outboard processor and amplifier) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $820.00 | $799.00 |
| Brand | JBL | JBL |
| Speaker Type | Landscape | Studio Monitor |
| Install Type | Installed | Installed |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose JBL JBL-GSB12-GN 12" In-Ground Subwoofer, Grn, 1 pc
- ✓ IP-66 weather resistance, UV-resistant cone, built to stay buried outdoors for years
- ✓ 118 dB peak SPL with 900W continuous power—handles large outdoor events
- ✓ 70V/100V transformer support for distributed systems and landscape installations
- ✓ Ultra-low-profile design installs flush with ground, invisible in permanent setups
Why choose JBL LSR705i 5-Inch 2-Way Master Reference Monitor (Requires outboard processor and amplifier)
- ✓ Patent-pending Image Control Waveguide ensures phase-coherent, transparent reproduction for mastering
- ✓ 39 Hz to 36 kHz frequency range covers full professional audio spectrum
- ✓ Bi-amplified operation available for dedicated woofer and compression driver amplification
- ✓ Purpose-built for critical listening; trusted by professional mastering engineers
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the LSR705i for outdoor events like the JBL-GSB12-GN?
No. The LSR705i is a nearfield studio reference monitor designed for desktop mastering work in controlled environments. It has no weather protection, requires external amplification, and is not designed for outdoor or portable use. The JBL-GSB12-GN is specifically engineered for outdoor installations.
Can I use the JBL-GSB12-GN in my home studio?
Not ideally. The GSB12-GN is a landscape subwoofer meant for buried, permanent outdoor installation. The LSR705i is designed for studio monitoring. If you need studio bass extension, you would pair the LSR705i with a dedicated studio subwoofer, not a ground-mounted outdoor unit.
What's the skill and budget difference between these two?
Both are mid-tier priced and professional-level. The GSB12-GN is intermediate-to-advanced for outdoor system installers. The LSR705i is professional-only because it demands external gear (processor, Crown amplifier) and critical listening experience in a mastering context.
Why does the LSR705i need external amplification while the GSB12-GN doesn't?
The GSB12-GN is a complete powered subwoofer with a built-in 200-watt transformer for 70V/100V systems or direct low-impedance operation. The LSR705i is a component-level reference monitor designed to integrate into a mastering chain where the engineer chooses dedicated professional amplification and signal processing for maximum control and transparency.