unprecedented physical and acoustical
scale possible. Engineers took the core
components-the low and high frequency
drivers-and optimized them by
redesigning their magnetic structures,
diaphragms and framework for greater
l i n e a r i t y, dynamic capability and tran-
sient response.
In the years following the introduction
of the K2 S9500 and K2 S5500, sound
reproduction technology underwent
another series of revolutionary changes,
with the introduction of DVD-Vi d e o ,
Dolby Digital, DTS, DVD-Audio, and
Super Audio CD (SACD). Frequency
responses to 50 kHz and 3-digit dynam-
ic range and signal-to-noise ratios have
now become commonplace. In order to
faithfully reproduce such robust sonic
properties, the loudspeaker needed to
u n d e rgo drastic improvements to its
t r a n s d u c e r, network and enclosure tech-
n o l o g i e s .
See Fi g u r e 1.
Unlike the earlier P ro j e c t s K2 S9500
and K2 S5500, the new K2 S9800
employed a 3-way design, incorporating
an Ultra High Frequency (UHF) com-
pression driver and horn to reproduce
high frequencies up to 50 kHz. With the
UHF handling the high frequencies, the
High Frequency (HF) transducer could
then be upgraded to a new design using
a 3 inch diaphragm for better reproduc-
tion of lower frequencies and better
blend with the woofer than the older
g e n e r a t i o n s ’2-inch diaphragm. Both
compression drivers utilized newly
developed Beryllium diaphragms to
provide the lowest distortion and flattest
frequency response possible.
In order to recreate the extremely high
dynamic range provided by today’s
audio sources, a brand new low fre-
quency transducer was developed from
ground up, utilizing an Alnico magnet,
4-inch edge wound Voice Coil, and an
Aquaplas™-coated 15 inch cone with
EPDM rubber surround. Extensive
c o m p u t e r-aided engineering and design
e ffort made to develop the optimized
port tuning employed in P roject K2
S 9 8 0 0 has resulted in a significant
advance in the concept of state-of-the-
art bass reproduction. This proprietary
alignment method offers the best damp-
ing characteristics and provides
extremely fast alignment, eliminating
the typical "bass-reflex" sound of a port-
ed system.
All three transducers were built using
the most advanced materials and preci-
sion manufacturing techniques refined
from renowned JBL professional sound
s y s t e m s .
High power handling capability results
in no limitations on the types of source
material. P roject K2 S9800 has very
high input sensitivity; even a relatively
small high-end amplifier can provide
full dynamic range without compres-
s i o n .
Despite its power and sophistication,
P roject K2 S9800 is a marriage of tradi-
tion and technology. It reflects the
design, engineering and manufacturing
expertise derived and refined through
nearly six decades of experience that are
the exclusive province of one loud-
speaker builder: JBL.
4
Project K2 S9800
