CHAPTER 2 – THE PROJECT K2 S5800 LOUDSPEAKER: A TRIUMPH IN ACOUSTICS AND TECHNOLOGY

 

 

stable pinpointed stereo image. All

 

 

the sound seems to come from the

 

 

combination horn in the center.

 

 

Music imaging is more realistic

 

 

since the sound appears to emanate

 

 

from one point and not from multiple

 

 

points at different times.

 

 

Project K2 is a constant-angle sys-

 

 

tem without regard to frequency.

 

 

Careful horn design enables the

 

 

loudspeaker to strictly adhere to a

 

 

60° horizontal/30° vertical coverage

Figure 2. Height of K2 S5800 speaker system in relation to listener.

pattern. This Controlled Coverage

arrangement precisely defines the

 

 

The following sections describe

Thanks to the centrally mounted

optimum listening area and mini-

mizes room effects. At the same

the primary features and compo-

combination horn, both the UHF

time, it provides a generous “sweet

nents of the Project K2 S5800

(ultrahigh-frequency) and HF (high-

spot” for more comfortable critical

loudspeaker system.

frequency) drivers are located at

listening sessions.

 

The enclosure of the K2 S5800

the ear level of the listener.

 

 

is specially designed to transfer

See Figure 2.

THE DUAL 1200FE LOW-

unwanted mechanical energy

The large 3-inch HF transducer

FREQUENCY DRIVERS

away from any acoustically active

allows the two 12-inch woofers to

See Figure 3.

 

surfaces, virtually eliminating

be crossed over at a frequency low

In order to achieve the lowest pos-

coloration.

enough to eliminate any audible

sible distortion and compression

The massive enclosure, along

effects of their exact location and

along with the high linear excur-

with its specially designed brass

proximity.

sion necessary, the 1200FE is

modular feet, couples directly to

Full image coherency is main-

equipped with a ferrite magnet.

the floor, and the system literally

tained, resulting in an acoustically

As with earlier Project K2 low-

becomes a structural part of its

 

 

 

environment. Any vibration is

 

Terminal Base

 

transmitted harmlessly down the

 

Terminals

channel provided by the ring/

 

Glass-Filled ABS

 

Gold-Plated 5-Way

Surround

 

disc axes and into the floor. The

 

Binding Posts

EPDM Foam Rubber

 

SonoGlass combination horn

Pigtail Leads

 

 

maintains a smooth energy

 

Magnet

transmission path.

Silver-Plated

 

Cadmium Copper

 

Ceramic

The Project K2 S5800 transducer/

w/Conex Core

 

 

enclosure arrangement represents

Spiders

 

Polepiece

the best possible balance of the

 

Nomex®

 

various tuning options and avoids

 

 

Steel SAE-1008

 

 

 

the mid-bass response buildup

Dust Dome

 

 

found in other vented systems.

Paper Pulp

 

Back Plate

Response works with, rather

Composite

 

Steel SAE-1008

 

 

than against, the effects of

Spider Spacer

 

 

“room loading.”

Extruded Aluminum

 

 

The unique design of the Project K2

6063

 

Pole Sleeve

 

 

system is the platform for its equally

Trim Ring

 

Hi-Purity Copper

 

 

unique acoustical attributes.

NBR Rubber

 

Voice Coil

 

 

 

 

Frame

Cone Body

Aluminum Ribbon Wire

 

ES-1350 on High Temp

 

Special Paper

 

Cast 380

Fiberglass Former

 

Pulp Composite

 

Aluminum

 

 

 

 

Figure 3. Cutaway view of 1200FE low-frequency transducer.

7

 

Page 7
Image 7
JBL K2 S5800 Combination horn in the center, Music imaging is more realistic, Points at different times, Transmission path

K2 S5800 specifications

The JBL K2 S5800 is an exceptional loudspeaker that caters to audiophiles and professional audio engineers looking for high fidelity sound in various listening environments. Known for its iconic design and remarkable performance, the K2 S5800 combines advanced technology with a rich heritage in audio engineering, making it a standout choice in the realm of high-end speakers.

One of the main features of the K2 S5800 is its innovative 3-way speaker configuration, which incorporates a 15-inch woofer, a 4-inch midrange driver, and a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter. This combination allows for a wide frequency response, delivering deep and powerful bass, clear midrange, and crisp high frequencies. The result is a well-balanced sound that can reproduce music accurately without coloration, providing listeners with an authentic audio experience.

The K2 S5800 utilizes JBL's patented Bi-Radial horn technology, which enhances the dispersion of high frequencies across a broad area. This technology ensures that listeners can enjoy consistent sound quality, whether they're positioned in the sweet spot or off to the side. Additionally, the advanced waveguide design of the horn optimizes the interaction between the drivers, further improving coherence in sound reproduction.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the K2 S5800 is its ability to handle high power levels, making it suitable for both home audio systems and professional studio environments. With a power handling capacity of up to 800 watts, the K2 S5800 can deliver powerful sound that fills large spaces without distortion. This capability is crucial for audio professionals who require reliable performance during recording, mixing, or live sound applications.

The speaker's cabinet is meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, providing both aesthetic appeal and acoustic integrity. The enclosure is designed to minimize resonance and unwanted vibrations, ensuring that the sound remains clean and true to the source. Furthermore, the K2 S5800's elegant finish and sleek design add a touch of sophistication to any space, making it not just a high-performance speaker, but also a stylish piece of furniture.

In summary, the JBL K2 S5800 is a remarkable loudspeaker that merges cutting-edge technology with a commitment to audio excellence. With its powerful drivers, advanced dispersion technology, and premium build quality, it is an ideal choice for anyone seeking unparalleled sound performance in a beautifully designed package. Whether for professional use or high-end home listening, the K2 S5800 exemplifies JBL's legacy of innovation and quality in the audio industry.