JBL Control 312CS 12" High Output In-ceiling Subwoofer
Description
JBL Control 312CS 12" High Output In-ceiling Subwoofer
The Control 312CS is a purpose-built in-ceiling subwoofer engineered for venues and live-sound installations where low-frequency extension and output capability are non-negotiable. Its compact footprint and high sensitivity make it practical for retrofit applications while delivering the bass response and SPL required for medium to large rooms and performance spaces.
Driver & Power Handling
A Kevlar-reinforced 300 mm (12 inch) woofer with 75 mm voice coil handles 400 Watts of power with a well-damped surround and extended excursion design that minimizes distortion across the bass spectrum. The high-temperature voice coil and saturated-gap magnet geometry ensure reliable performance even under sustained high-output conditions typical of live events and touring setups.
Output & Frequency Response
With sensitivity ratings of 99 dB (near corner) to 93 dB (ceiling center), this subwoofer achieves maximum SPL of 125 dB at 1 meter (131 dB peak), enabling it to integrate effectively with full-range loudspeaker systems in medium to large venues and performance spaces. The frequency response of 34 Hz to 3.5 kHz (±3 dB) provides articulate low-frequency coverage without muddying midrange clarity in live applications.
Key Features
- Kevlar-reinforced 12-inch subwoofer driver with 75 mm voice coil
- 400 Watts power handling with high sensitivity output
- Frequency response ±3 dB: 34 Hz – 3.5 kHz
- Extended frequency response (–10 dB): 30 Hz – 4.5 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 125 dB at 1 meter (131 dB peak, center of ceiling)
- Sensitivity: 99 dB in ceiling near corner, 93 dB in center of ceiling
- 8 ohm impedance
- 14.4" square ported metal baffle with pre-mounted driver
- 14.9" x 14.9" ceiling cutout size
- 6.3" installation depth
- Well-damped surround with extended excursion capability
- Screw locking barrier strip input connectors
The Control 312CS combines compact in-ceiling installation with the output and low-frequency extension needed for professional sound reinforcement and live performance, making it a reliable choice for venue systems where performance cannot be compromised.
More Information
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At a Glance
The JBL Control 312CS is a 12-inch in-ceiling subwoofer engineered for live venues and commercial installations that demand serious low-end power and clarity without compromise. Built with a Kevlar-reinforced driver and 400-watt power handling, it delivers a tight, articulate bass response with maximum SPL of 125 dB at 1 meter, making it capable of matching full-range systems in medium to large spaces. Choose this for retrofit installations and touring rigs where professional-grade low-frequency extension and road-proven reliability are essential.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Commercial Installation
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Home Recording
- – Practice
Skill level: Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the installation requirements and cutout size?
The Control 312CS requires a 14.9-inch by 14.9-inch ceiling cutout and mounts with a pre-mounted 14.4-inch square ported metal baffle. Installation depth is 6.3 inches, making it practical for retrofit applications in existing ceiling cavities.
How does the frequency response perform in live or installed systems?
The subwoofer covers 34 Hz to 3.5 kHz at ±3 dB, with extended response down to 30 Hz at –10 dB, providing articulate bass that integrates with full-range loudspeaker systems without muddying the midrange. Sensitivity ranges from 99 dB (near corner) to 93 dB (ceiling center), ensuring consistent output across mounting positions.
What kind of power handling and maximum SPL can I expect?
The 12-inch Kevlar-reinforced woofer with 75 mm voice coil handles 400 watts continuously with a maximum SPL of 125 dB at 1 meter, or 131 dB peak at the center of ceiling. The high-temperature voice coil and saturated-gap magnet design ensure reliable performance under sustained high-output conditions.
What makes this subwoofer suitable for professional installations over home use?
The Control 312CS is engineered for commercial and architectural applications, with in-ceiling installation, high sensitivity, and sustained SPL capability that serve venues and installed sound systems. It is not intended for home recording or practice environments where compact, close-field monitoring is the priority.
How does the well-damped surround design affect bass response?
The extended excursion design with well-damped surround minimizes distortion across the bass spectrum, delivering tight, controlled low-end articulation even at high output levels. This approach ensures the subwoofer maintains clarity and definition in demanding live and commercial sound reinforcement applications.