JBL AC18/26 - 500W 8-inch Passive 2-Way Installation Loudspeaker with 120 x 60-Degree Coverage in Black Finish

The JBL Professional AC18/26 is a powerful and compact full-range loudspeaker system that delivers outstanding audio performance for professional installations. Designed to provide maximum bandwidth and high SPL output in a visually unobtrusive package, this speaker is perfect for applications where space is limited, and superior sound quality is required. Ideal for under balcony, column, or wall mounting, the AC18/26 offers flexibility in installation while ensuring consistent and clear sound coverage across the listening area.

Equipped with a 1-inch exit compression driver integrated into a newly designed 120° x 60° rotatable PT (Progressive Transition) waveguide, the AC18/26 provides smooth, consistent power response and delivers even coverage throughout the entire listening area. The PT waveguide enables an acoustically seamless transition between high and low frequencies, resulting in natural voicing and accurate sound reproduction. The high-frequency driver is complemented by a robust 8-inch Symmetrical Field Geometry (SFG) low-frequency transducer, featuring a 2.5-inch edge-wound voice coil and a copper-clad pole piece. This combination reduces voice coil inductance and distortion, delivering clear, detailed sound with minimal distortion, even at high volumes.

The AC18/26's rugged multi-ply hardwood enclosure is designed for optimal performance in both vertical and horizontal planes, offering versatility in mounting configurations. The enclosure is finished with JBL's textured DuraFlex coating, ensuring durability and a professional appearance. For added protection, the speaker is equipped with a heavy-duty powder-coated steel grille and acoustically transparent foam backing, ensuring that the drivers remain well-protected while maintaining sound clarity. This speaker also offers attachment points for an optional U-bracket and an OmniMount type bracket, providing multiple mounting options to suit various installation requirements. Additionally, the AC18/26 is equipped with points for a stand mount accessory, making it suitable for a wide range of professional environments.

With a frequency range of 52 Hz to 20 kHz (-10 dB) and a frequency response of 63 Hz to 19 kHz (+/- 3 dB), the AC18/26 delivers exceptional sound quality with full-range coverage. The loudspeaker's sensitivity of 92 dB SPL and maximum SPL of 116 dB ensure that it can handle high-output demands, making it ideal for use in medium to large spaces. The AC18/26 is capable of delivering clean and powerful sound, with a long-term power rating of 250W continuous, 500W program, and 1000W peak. The AES standard power rating of 375W guarantees reliable performance even during extended use. The crossover frequency of 1.6 kHz ensures seamless integration between the high and low-frequency drivers for a cohesive sound experience.

The AC18/26 features dual Neutrik NL4 connectors and covered barrier strip terminals for reliable and secure audio connections. The loudspeaker is designed to perform in both indoor and outdoor environments, with an IP53 rating, ensuring that it can withstand dust and water exposure. For even more robust environmental protection, optional weather-resistant versions (WRC & WRX) are available. The AC18/26 is built to endure demanding conditions, offering both exceptional sound quality and environmental durability.

Features

• Compact full-range loudspeaker designed for high SPL and maximum bandwidth in a single system package
• 1-inch exit compression driver with 120° x 60° rotatable PT waveguide for smooth power response and even coverage
• 8-inch Symmetrical Field Geometry (SFG) low-frequency transducer with 2.5-inch edge-wound voice coil for high clarity and minimal distortion
• Frequency range: 52 Hz - 20 kHz (-10 dB), frequency response: 63 Hz - 19 kHz (+/- 3 dB)
• Maximum SPL: 116 dB for high-output environments, ideal for medium to large venues
• Power ratings: 250W continuous, 500W program, and 1000W peak; AES standard power rating: 375W
• Rugged multi-ply hardwood plywood enclosure with textured DuraFlex finish for durability
• Heavy-duty, powder-coated 16-gauge perforated steel grille with acoustically transparent foam backing for driver protection
• Attachment points for optional U-bracket, OmniMount bracket, and stand mount accessory for flexible installation options
• Dual Neutrik NL4 connectors and covered barrier strip terminals for secure, reliable audio connections
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.4 x 10.0 inches (H x W x D); weight: 28.2 lbs
• Shipping dimensions: 20 x 10 x 12 inches; shipping weight: 34 lbs
• Optional accessories: MTU-16 U-Bracket and M8 x 38mm Tee Knot Thumbscrew Kit for mounting flexibility
• Environmental specifications: Mil-Spec 810; IP53 rating for reliable operation in outdoor or demanding environments, with optional WRC and WRX versions for higher environmental ratings

Specifications

System

• Frequency Range (-10 dB): 52 Hz - 20 kHz
• Frequency Response (±3 dB): 63 Hz - 19 kHz
• Horizontal Coverage: 120°
• Vertical Coverage: 90°
• Directivity Factor (Q): 7 (avg. 500 Hz - 16 kHz)
• Directivity Index (DI): 8 dB (avg. 500 Hz - 16 kHz)
• System Sensitivity (1W @ 1m): 92 dB SPL
• Rated Maximum SPL (1m): 116 dB
• System Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms
• Long-Term System Power Rating (Continuous/Program/Peak): 250 W / 500 W / 1000 W
• AES Standard Power Rating: 375 W
• Crossover Frequency: 1.6 kHz

Transducers

• Low Frequency Driver: 1 x JBL 228H, 205 mm (8 in) SFG driver with 64 mm (2.5 in) edge wound voice coil
• High Frequency Driver: 1 x 2408H-1, 25 mm (1 in) exit compression driver, 38 mm (1.5 in) voice coil
• High-Frequency Waveguide: PT-D126HF-1 (Field Rotatable)

Physical

• Enclosure: 12 mm and 15 mm exterior grade multi-ply hardwood plywood
• Suspension Attachment: 6 x M8 points; 1 top, 3 bottom, 2 rear. 4 x M6 rear for OmniMount 30.0 and MultiMount MM-022-BT, MM-024-BT, MM-020-CM
• Finish: Black DuraFlex finish. White (WH) available upon request.
• Optional Weather Resistant Versions: WRC & WRX available upon request
• Grille: Powder coated 16 gauge perforated steel, acoustically transparent foam backing (grille cloth backing on white units)
• Input Connectors: Neutrik Speakon NL4 (2 wired in parallel), plus CE-compliant covered barrier strip terminals. Barrier terminals accept up to 5.2 sq mm (10 AWG) wire or max width 9 mm (0.375 in) spade lugs. NL4's +1/-1 in parallel with barrier strip (+2/-2 loop through).
• Environmental Specifications: Mil-Spec 810; IP53 per IEC 529. For higher environmental ratings, use WRC or WRX.
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.4 x 10.0 inches
• Weight: 28.2 lbs
• MTU-16 U-Bracket, 365469-001, M8 x 38mm Tee Knot Thumbscrew Kit for use with BMB-200k or K&M 195/8 stand mount accessory