With the glut of studio monitors available today, it can be easy to forget that JBL was among just a handful of top-notch choices available in the not-too-distant past. I reviewed the JBL Professional 705P monitors [Tape Op #163] and was blown away by just how fantastic these compact units performed. Monitors are a personal choice for sure, but I really thought they sounded first-rate, especially for one with a 5-inch woofer; they made the cut as a second set of speakers for mixing alongside my Focal Trio6 Be [#114] mains. I have recommended the 705Ps to many friends in audio, but if you are not a working audio professional, or just getting your start in production or mixing, the price tag of over $1000 per speaker might be more than most are willing to shell out. The good news is that JBL 3 Series MkII monitors (available with 5, 6, or 8-inch woofers) have many of the same features that make the 7 Series so attractive, but at a budget-friendly price.
The 308P MkII I was sent for review have 8-inch woofers, JBL’s patented waveguide tweeter technology, and, in many ways, look similar to the 7 Series design. The units accept both XLR and TRS inputs, and include separate controls for input sensitivity, boundary EQ, and high-frequency trim to help users fine tune the playback in their listening space. They have a claimed frequency response of 45 Hz to 20 kHz (±3 dB), a fixed crossover at 1.8 kHz, and a max SPL of 112 dB, with 112 watts of power distributed evenly at 56 watts each to both high and low frequency drivers. The cabinet is a rear-ported design made of medium-density fiberboard, weighing approximately 21 pounds each.
At roughly $600 a pair, the 308P MkIIs are a compelling choice. They have a wide sweet spot and maintain a balanced presentation throughout the listening position. My room is pretty well treated, and large enough so I can position the monitors away from any walls. However, for those with limited space, the MkII’s boundary EQ options can help tame the low end when placed close to a wall.
EQ controls on studio monitors (especially for novice engineers!) can be a can of worms. If the room is not perfect, how can one be sure adjustments are accurate? For many, that can mean multiple trips to the car or other spaces with familiar playback systems to ensure mix moves are translating. However, with the 308P MkII’s controls and some experimentation, users can adjust to their liking.
The JBL’s high end was generally smooth – not at all harsh – and consistent throughout the mix position. The midrange on these speakers, especially in the low mid frequencies, didn’t match the precise detail often found in more expensive monitors of the same size. It was just a tad hazy for making critical mix decisions when compared to what I typically mix on. I also felt the same about the 308P MkII’s low end response. Although there is plenty of bass information, there is just not quite the detail, focus, or frequency separation found in a higher end speaker. I heard no noticeable distortion at high volumes, no rattles, and the JBLs have low self-noise. However, for a budget-friendly monitor, the 308P MkII performs exceptionally. In addition to studio work, these speakers are also well-suited for pleasure listening, with plenty of party power and enough clarity that inspires listeners to dive into the music.
Whatever budget concerns were implemented in bringing the 308P MkII to market, they were done quite thoughtfully, with every intention of bringing the user a quality monitor at a price newbies can afford, and seasoned ears can appreciate. I’m impressed with JBL’s ability to offer something that performs this well at such an attractive price, and would gladly use the 308P MkIIs in my home studio, or as an alternate set of monitors in my main studio.