JBL AWC159 - 500W 15-inch Passive 2-Way IP56-Rated 70V/100V Installation Loudspeaker with 90 x 90-Degree Coverage in Gray Finish

The JBL Professional AWC159 is a high-performance, weather-resistant, 2-way loudspeaker designed for a wide range of outdoor and indoor applications. Featuring a compact coaxial design, this speaker delivers exceptional speech clarity and music reproduction, making it ideal for sports facilities, racetracks, stadiums, fairgrounds, outdoor events, swimming pools, water parks, and various other environments. The AWC159's 15-inch low-frequency driver and high-frequency compression driver are housed in a rugged, fiberglass-enforced enclosure that provides reliable, all-weather performance with an IP56 rating, ensuring it can withstand the harshest environmental conditions.

The AWC159 boasts a unique coaxial configuration, combining a 380 mm (15-inch) Kevlar-reinforced woofer and a 38 mm (1.5-inch) high-frequency compression driver. This innovative design eliminates high-frequency beaming, typically seen in other loudspeakers of this size, by using a tapered pole piece that transitions into the low-frequency driver's cone to act as a large diameter pattern control horn for high frequencies. This results in wide and consistent 90° x 90° coverage across the frequency range, making the speaker highly effective for both speech and music across a large area. Additionally, the speaker's design enhances sound clarity, even at higher volumes, making it suitable for venues requiring both high output and low distortion.

The speaker is equipped with a 400W power handling capacity (continuous pink noise), allowing it to reach a maximum SPL of 125 dB (peaks at 131 dB). With a frequency response of 55 Hz - 20 kHz, the AWC159 is optimized to produce both extended low frequencies and crisp highs, covering the full audio spectrum for a natural listening experience. The advanced passive crossover network is engineered to deliver smooth and constant coverage, while high-temperature voice coils and fluid cooling ensure long-lasting, consistent performance. The AWC159's 70V/100V multi-tap transformer, with different wattage options, provides compatibility with distributed sound systems, and the direct 8Ω low-impedance setting offers additional flexibility for various installations.

The enclosure of the AWC159 is made from ABS and glass fiber for maximum durability, while the corrosion-resistant powder-coated steel grille provides additional protection against outdoor elements. The speaker's IP56 rating ensures it can handle exposure to dust, water, and extreme temperatures, and it meets MIL-810 standards for humidity, salt spray, UV exposure, and temperature variations. The AWC159's versatility is further enhanced by its ability to be mounted easily with the included heavy-duty U-bracket, which allows for precise orientation and security in installations. This loudspeaker is available in both gray and black finishes, matching a variety of environments and aesthetic needs.

Features

• Coaxial 2-way system with a 15-inch Kevlar-reinforced low-frequency driver and a 1.5-inch high-frequency compression driver for wide, consistent 90° x 90° coverage
• IP56-rated enclosure providing reliable weather resistance for both indoor and outdoor applications
• Power handling of 400W with high sensitivity, delivering a maximum SPL of 125 dB (peaks at 131 dB)
• Frequency response range from 55 Hz to 20 kHz, providing full-range sound suitable for speech and music
• Advanced passive crossover network for smooth midrange reproduction and constant coverage
• 70V/100V multi-tap transformer with multiple wattage options (200W, 100W, 50W) for flexible installation
• Heavy-duty ABS and glass fiber enclosure with corrosion-resistant powder-coated steel grille for maximum durability
• Fluid-cooled high-frequency compression driver with a patented high-temperature polymer diaphragm for high output with low distortion
• Easy mounting with included U-bracket for flexible installation, with a safety attachment point for added security
• Dimensions: 19.1 x 19.1 x 18.8 inches, net weight: 45.5 lbs, shipping weight: 61 lbs (with U-bracket)

Specifications

System

• Frequency Range (-10 dB): 52 Hz - 20 kHz
• Frequency Response (±3 dB): 80 Hz - 20 kHz
• Coverage Pattern: 90° x 90°
• Directivity Factor (Q): 11.1 (1 k - 16 kHz)
• Directivity Index (DI): 9.7 dB (1 k - 16 kHz)
• Long-Term System Power Rating (IEC): 500 W (2000 W peak), 2 hrs. 300 W (1200 W peak), 100 hrs
• Sensitivity (2.83V @ 1m): 98 dB (Ave. 80 Hz - 20 kHz)
• Maximum SPL: Direct 80°: 125 dB (peaks of 131 dB) 100W Tap: 123 dB (peaks of 129 dB)
• Crossover Network: 1.5 kHz, 4th order (24 dB/oct) high-pass plus conjugate to HF, 2nd order low-pass to LF
• Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
• Transformer Taps:
  • 70V: 300W, 150W, 75W, 38W
  • 100V: 300W, 150W, 75W

Transducers

• Low Frequency Driver: Kevlar-reinforced cone with weather treatment, 75 mm (3 in) voice coil.
• High Frequency Driver: 2408H-2 38 mm (1 in) diaphragm and voice coil diameter, patented high-temperature annular polymer diaphragm, copper-clad aluminum coil, fluid-cooled.

Physical

• Enclosure: ABS with Glass enclosure, heavily braced
• Attachment: Two M10 (fine-thread) points for included U-bracket. Reference torque 15 ft-lb (20 N·m). M6 secondary safety attachment point on back panel.
• Grille: Corrosion-resistant zinc-rich extra-thick powder coated steel grille, 3-layer assembly with foam and woven poly mesh backing.
• Input Connection: CE-compliant covered barrier strip terminals. Barrier terminals accept up to 8 mm outside 4 mm inside open-lug (#6 or #8) plus bare wire up to 2.5 mm2 (12 AWG) wire or spade lugs. Terminal compartment cover equipped with gland nut that forms water-tight seal with round-jacketed cables with outside diameter between 4.0 mm (0.16") and 9.0 mm (0.36").
• Environmental: IP56 for IEC529, with a minimum 5° downward aiming angle. Exceeds Mil Spec 810 for humidity, salt spray, temperature & UV, and ASTM G85 for acid-air/salt-spray.
• Dimensions: 19.1 x 19.1 x 18.8 inches, 507 mm (19.9 in) depth including bracket extending to back 546 mm (21.5 in) including bracket extending to back
• Colors: Available in gray (similar to Pantone 420C) and black (-BK)
• Net Weight: 45.5 lbs (one speaker) 51.5 lbs with U-bracket
• Shipping Weight: 61 lbs
• Included Accessories: U-bracket, matches loudspeaker color (gray or black), zinc-rich extra thick powder coated, steel.