JBL Control 328CT 8" Coaxial 2-WAY Ceiling Spk W Transformer
Description
JBL Control 328CT 8" Coaxial 2-Way Ceiling Speaker with Transformer
The Control 328CT is a compact, professionally engineered ceiling-mount speaker that excels in studio monitoring applications and distributed audio recording setups. Its coaxial driver configuration delivers consistent frequency response across medium-sized control rooms and tracking spaces, while the integrated 70V/100V transformer simplifies integration into multi-zone studio networks and routing infrastructures. The compact 12-inch diameter footprint fits standard ceiling infrastructure without requiring extensive modification, making it ideal for adding supplementary monitoring or room-fill capability to existing studio installations.
Sonic Character & Monitoring Performance
This speaker delivers 93 dB sensitivity at 1 kHz with a 120° broadband pattern control coverage, ensuring even sound distribution and consistent mix translation across the control room. The 8-inch Kevlar-reinforced woofer paired with a 25mm compression driver produces a frequency response of 60 Hz – 16 kHz (±3 dB), with extended range down to 45 Hz and up to 18 kHz, making it capable of revealing vocal detail, instrument clarity, and mix balance across speech, music, and mixed-content productions.
Studio Integration & Signal Flow
The 68-watt multi-tap transformer enables direct connection to 70V or 100V distributed speaker lines, eliminating the need for external transformers in multi-room monitoring systems. The speaker supports a long-term power capacity of 250W with 1000W peak capability, providing headroom for professional-grade audio signals and dynamic monitoring applications. Standard 8-ohm impedance and a 310 mm (12.2-inch) ceiling cutout accommodate the MTC-300BB8 backcan for secure, flush installation that maintains acoustic symmetry in the room.
Key Features
- 8-inch Kevlar-reinforced woofer with 50mm (2-inch) voice coil
- 25mm (1-inch exit) compression driver with coaxial configuration
- Frequency response: 60 Hz – 16 kHz (±3 dB); extended range 45 Hz – 18 kHz (-10 dB)
- 120° broadband pattern control coverage
- 93 dB sensitivity at 1 kHz
- 8-ohm impedance
- 68-watt multi-tap transformer for 70V/100V distributed speaker lines
- 250W long-term power capacity; 1000W peak power handling
- 12-inch diameter × 8.6-inch depth (305 × 218 mm)
- 310 mm (12.2-inch) ceiling cutout for standard backcan installation
- Metal round baffle with pre-mounted drivers on ported enclosure
The Control 328CT combines JBL's proven coaxial design with practical system-level features that make it a reliable choice for home studios, professional control rooms, tracking facilities, and other spaces requiring consistent ceiling-mounted reference monitoring and distributed studio audio.
More Information
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At a Glance
The JBL Control 328CT is a compact ceiling speaker with a coaxial 8-inch woofer and compression driver, engineered for clear, balanced reproduction in distributed audio systems where recording-quality speech and music playback are priorities. Its 60 Hz – 16 kHz response and 93 dB sensitivity deliver articulate vocals and well-defined midrange ideal for capturing clean audio reference in multi-room or networked studio monitoring setups. Choose it for hassle-free integration into 70V/100V speaker line systems where you need professional sound coverage without added external gear.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Commercial installations
- ✓ Institutional audio
- ✓ Speech and music distribution
- ✓ Retail environments
Not the best pick for
- – Live performance
- – High-SPL concert applications
Skill level: Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the integrated 70V/100V transformer do, and do I need extra equipment?
The 68-watt multi-tap transformer lets you connect the speaker directly to 70V or 100V distributed speaker lines without external transformers. It simplifies large-system wiring by allowing multiple speakers to run on a single amplified line.
Will this speaker fit in a standard ceiling, and what installation support does it need?
The Control 328CT has a 12-inch diameter footprint and requires a 310 mm (12.2-inch) ceiling cutout, fitting standard commercial ceiling infrastructure. It mounts securely with the optional MTC-300BB8 backcan for flush installation without extensive modification.
How clear will speech sound, and can it handle music too?
The coaxial driver configuration and balanced 60 Hz – 16 kHz frequency response deliver clear speech intelligibility and consistent music reproduction. Its 120° broadband coverage pattern ensures even distribution across the room for both content types.
What is the speaker's power capacity, and how loud can it get?
The Control 328CT supports 250W long-term power and 1000W peak power handling, with 93 dB sensitivity at 1 kHz. It is designed for medium-sized commercial spaces; it is not rated for high-SPL concert or live performance applications.
How does this compare to other ceiling speakers?
The Control 328CT uses a proven JBL coaxial design with integrated transformer for simplified system wiring. Alternatives like the Bose FreeSpace DS 100SE and Crestron AMP-2210 offer similar coverage in commercial settings; compare based on your ceiling infrastructure and existing amplifier compatibility.