JBL L82 Classic Speakers (Pair) Black Gloss Limited Edition

JBL L82 Classic speaker black gloss limited editions are an updated version of the mid-model in the Classic line-up, a more compact alternative to the L100 Classic but with greater bass extension over the L52 Classic.

The JBL classic series began in 1970, and has been in production ever since. The classic series is JBL’s best selling range and has now been upgraded with the special edition, black version. The L82 has a sophisticated new look and has been upgraded in many ways, with the black edition performance package.

Acoustic refinements include improvements to the drivers as well as an upgraded crossover. The black range is only available for a short time, with a unique look and gold badging. The L82 is a two-way design with an 8” woofer and a 0.75” tweeter. There is also a bass port for super low bass. The finish is a high gloss black.

The L82 Classic Story

The new limited edition black L82 keeps the look of the original while using new drive units and a modern crossover. However, the cabinet design has also been upgraded with a stiffer construction. Modern dynamics and imaging are maintained with this more rigid construction. The black gloss limited edition speakers have been optimised for a superlative level of performance.

The original classic series were popular but not to everyone's taste. The retro wood finish cabinets and brightly coloured grills have been upgraded, without loosing the original character. The black edition appearance package includes a high gloss, mirror like black, finish along with a black grille. It is very labour intensive process to create this superlative finish. Another unique feature is the gold labelling that features the JBL logo. Finally, the Quadrex foam grilles are also badged for this special edition.

Upgraded Woofer and Bi-Wiring Options

The woofer design, for the L82’s, has been improved, with better linearity and lower distortion. The tweeter has also undergone a revamp. It is a 0.75” unit with a titanium dome and wide dispersion waveguide. Additionally, the woofer is an 8” unit with a pure pulp cone. Improvements include a dual spider and a bigger motor magnet. The crossover has gold plated binding posts and can now be bi-wired. The terminals can take plugs, spade connectors or bare wires. Finally, there is an attenuator control for the Tweeter. The recommended amplifier output power is 25 -125 watts.

JBL History

JBL have been making loudspeakers since the 1930’s. The company was founded in the U.S by James B Lansing, hence the initials JBL. They started by making 6” and 8” loudspeakers, which were mostly used in radio sets. They also made larger speakers for the luxury console models. However it was the height of the depression and sales were slow.

However, by the 1950’s new innovations included the first 4” high frequency compression drivers. At the same time the legendary “bullet” tweeter came out. This was known as the 075 Ring radiator Driver. Another milestone was the use of JBL speakers in Fender guitar amplifiers.

By the 1970’s things had moved on and JBL had entered the professional market. They rapidly became number one in the field, and by the 1980’s they were manufacturing innovative titanium domed tweeters. Another professional endeavour was the PA and musician market. The Cabinet series of PA speakers became the choice for musicians as well as Churches and clubs. JBL continue to improve the range with the special edition L82.