Flagship large-format studio monitor integrates next-generation transducers, networking and patented technologies for greater dynamic range and accuracy in film and TV remix applications.
LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Delivering greater accuracy and dynamic range to post-production control rooms, HARMAN’s JBL Professional is showcasing the M2 Master Reference Monitor at NAB 2013. The largest speaker in JBL’s studio monitor line, the M2 integrates new JBL transducer technologies and patented innovations in a compact, 2-way system. It can be placed in any production environment free-standing, behind the screen or soffit mounted to provide a superior level of accuracy and performance. The compact footprint of the M2 allows placement in rooms too small for traditional cinema screen channel loudspeakers.
The M2 Master Reference Monitor design leverages JBL’s new D2 Compression Driver which uses two annular diaphragms and two voice coils to deliver extended high frequency response and very low distortion at very high sound pressure levels. The D2 is mated with JBL’s new 2216ND Differential DriveA® 15-inch woofer also with dual voice coils, incorporating a patented wire application that reduces power compression enabling linear output regardless of playback level. With these two extraordinary drivers as the engine, the M2 Master Reference Monitor delivers extended in-room response of 20 Hz to 40 kHz for today’s high-resolution recording formats, and remarkable 129 dB SPL at one meter, providing the necessary dynamic range for demanding music and film production.
To allow an imperceptible transition between the two drivers, and deliver exceptional imaging, JBL Engineers pioneered a new patent-pending waveguide dubbed “Image Control” that enables neutral frequency response, not just on-axis, but off-axis in the vertical and horizontal planes all the way down to the M2’s 800 Hz crossover point. The unique geometry of the waveguide allows the M2 to deliver remarkable high-frequency detail and imaging and natural timbre at any listening position, in a broad range of acoustic environments.
HARMAN’s Crown I-Tech power amplifiers complete the system, providing greater than a kilowatt of clean power to the 2216ND woofer and the D2 high-frequency driver. In conjunction with the M2’s revolutionary waveguide, digital signal processing in the Crown I-Tech or BSS Soundwebâ„¢ London processor allows the implementation of an ideal crossover, while providing the option for storage of eq presets. In conjunction with measurement software, HARMAN HiQnet System Architectâ„¢ software allows networked control of system calibration and tuning to address non-linearity in the room, ensuring a high degree of accuracy particularly in the room-dependent low-frequency area, whether the M2 is free-standing, soffit-mounted or placed adjacent to a wall.
With an efficient form-factor of only 14 inches deep, 20 inches wide and 49.5 inches tall, the M2 Master Reference Monitor allows flexibility of placement in small and medium size dubbing stages, screening rooms, and reference environments, free-standing and behind the screen.
For more information on the M2 Master Reference Monitor, please visit
HARMAN (
) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets — supported by 15 leading brands, including AKGA®, Harman KardonA®, InfinityA®, JBLA®, LexiconA® and Mark LevinsonA®. The Company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 25 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems. HARMAN has a workforce of about 13,400 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported net sales of $4.4 billion for the twelve months ending June 30, 2012.
