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 built for distributed audio systems in venues, institutional spaces, and commercial installations where reliable sound reinforcement matters. Its coaxial driver configuration delivers consistent coverage across medium-sized rooms while the integrated 70V/100V transformer simplifies integration into existing speaker line networks. The compact 12-inch diameter footprint fits standard ceiling infrastructure without requiring extensive modification.
Audio Performance & Coverage
This speaker delivers 93 dB sensitivity at 1 kHz with a 120° broadband pattern control coverage, ensuring even sound distribution across the listening area. 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 suitable for speech, music, and mixed-content applications in live and installed sound scenarios.
Installation & System Integration
The 68-watt multi-tap transformer enables direct connection to 70V or 100V distributed speaker lines, eliminating the need for external transformers and reducing on-site complexity. The speaker supports a long-term power capacity of 250W with 1000W peak capability, providing headroom in larger system designs. Standard 8-ohm impedance and a 310 mm (12.2-inch) ceiling cutout accommodate the MTC-300BB8 backcan for secure, flush installation.
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 dependable choice for venues, schools, offices, and other spaces requiring consistent ceiling-mounted audio that will hold up under regular use.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The JBL Control 328CT is a professional ceiling-mount speaker built for commercial and institutional distributed audio systems, delivering clear speech and balanced music across medium-sized spaces with an integrated 70V/100V transformer that plugs directly into speaker line networks. Its compact 12-inch footprint and coaxial driver design provide even 120° coverage without requiring external equipment, making it ideal for installers and venue operators who need reliable, rack-free audio distribution in schools, offices, and retail environments. Choose it for trouble-free system integration and consistent sound quality in spaces where speech intelligibility and music playback matter equally.
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.