MTC-300SG12 vs MTC-81BB8 — Compare
JBL MTC-300SG12 Square Grille For 12" Control 300 Series Drivers vs JBL MTC-81BB8 Pre-install Deep Backcan For 8138
The MTC-300SG12 is a replacement grille for existing 12-inch floor or wall-mounted Control 300 speakers, while the MTC-81BB8 is a structural backcan for ceiling speaker pre-installation. Choose the grille if you need to replace or upgrade a Control 300 driver's protection; choose the backcan if you're installing ceiling speakers and need mounting structure and cable management.
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JBL MTC-300SG12 Square Grille For 12" Control 300 Series Drivers
JBL MTC-81BB8 Pre-install Deep Backcan For 8138
Specs side by side
| JBL MTC-300SG12 Square Grille For 12" Control 300 Series Drivers | JBL MTC-81BB8 Pre-install Deep Backcan For 8138 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $125.83 | $123.56 |
| Brand | JBL | JBL |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose JBL MTC-300SG12 Square Grille For 12" Control 300 Series Drivers
- ✓ Direct replacement for JBL Control 300 Series 12" drivers—exact fit guaranteed
- ✓ Acoustically transparent design maintains original speaker tuning
- ✓ Corrosion-resistant zinc-plated steel with professional satin finish
- ✓ Simple four-screw corner mounting with included hardware
Why choose JBL MTC-81BB8 Pre-install Deep Backcan For 8138
- ✓ Provides structural support and cable management for ceiling speaker installations
- ✓ Compact 7.4-liter volume fits within standard ceiling cavities
- ✓ Four M4 clip-nut attachment points for code-compliant mounting
- ✓ Multiple conduit knockouts simplify wiring in commercial installs
Frequently asked questions
Are these products compatible with each other?
No. The MTC-300SG12 is a grille for horizontal or wall-mounted 12-inch speaker drivers, while the MTC-81BB8 is a backcan for ceiling speaker pre-installation. They serve different installation contexts and speaker types.
Which product is right for a beginner installer?
The MTC-300SG12 is more beginner-friendly—it requires only four corner screws and is a straightforward replacement or upgrade component. The MTC-81BB8 is designed for professional ceiling installations and assumes structural knowledge of ceiling-cavity work.
What is the main functional difference between these two?
The MTC-300SG12 is a protective and aesthetic cover for a speaker driver, while the MTC-81BB8 is a structural housing that provides mounting, support, and internal cable routing for ceiling speaker systems. One protects an existing driver; the other enables installation infrastructure.
Do these products require special tools to install?
The MTC-300SG12 requires only a screwdriver or hex key for four corner mounting screws and includes spare hardware. The MTC-81BB8 requires standard ceiling installation tools and knowledge of clip-nut fastening and load-bearing techniques typical of commercial HVAC and electrical work.