JBL Synthesis Introducs Flagship SCL-1 Loudspeaker And SSW-1 Subwoofer

March 9, 2023

Press Release

JBL Synthesis SCL loudspeakers have transformed expectations for the possibilities in residential immersive audio systems. As the industry’s first comprehensive selection of compression driver-based architectural loudspeakers, system integrators and designers are able to deliver a level of performance from in-wall and inceiling products that was previously unavailable. With the introduction today of the flagship SCL1 and SSW-1, JBL Synthesis is expanding its patented technologies and acoustic advantages to large-format solutions scaled for ultra-premium, high channel count immersive audio deployments.

“Our revolutionary Synthesis Custom Loudspeaker range has set the bar for performance expectations in multichannel immersive audio systems and we are beyond excited to be expanding that series to new heights with these flagship models,” said Jim Garrett, Senior Director, Product Strategy and Planning, HARMAN Luxury Audio. “With home entertainment on the rise, JBL Synthesis systems can now be scaled further than ever before! Applying 75-years of transducer and acoustic expertise to the home environment allows JBL Synthesis to bring unique value, helps our dealer community address new opportunities and provides customers with exceptional audio experiences that cannot be achieved from any other brand.”

The SCL-1 and SSW-1 are two of the first products to launch since the creation of the JBL Synthesis Product Council in 2020. They are the direct result of dealer integrators who have been asking for a JBL Synthesis solution for large scale systems. Features and capabilities were reviewed and refined in conjunction with the members of the product council in order to deliver on the needs and expectations of the customers who have been requesting them.

SCL-1 LCR Loudspeaker
The SCL-1 loudspeaker is the new flagship of the JBL Synthesis SCL range, delivering unparalleled performance and uncompromised design. Optimized for custom installation behind projection screens, this large format LCR loudspeaker features JBL’s patented D2430K dual 3- inch diaphragm compression driver mated to a High-Definition Imaging (HDI TM) horn. With a pair of newly designed 12” cast frame Carbon Cellulose Composite Cone (C4 ) woofers in patented Complementary Bass Alignment System (C-BAS) configuration, the SCL-1 offers incredible output, dynamics, and detail for even the largest multichannel systems. The heavily braced MDF enclosure is finished in textured matte black and measures 48-inches high, 19- inches wide, and 15.3-inches deep with the included magnetically attached steel frame black fabric grille. Removing the grille reduces the depth to 14.5-inches. Connectivity is provided by dual sets of gold plated binding posts. Custom tuning can be achieved via the front panel configuration controls providing HF adjustments for various installation considerations as well as selections for bi-wire, bi-amp, and complete bypass of the internal crossover network for use in advanced systems with outboard electronic crossovers. SCL-1 availability begins in March with a retail price of $15,000 each.

SSW-1 Subwoofer
Part of the Synthesis Subwoofer series, the SSW-1 is a newly developed, ultra-highperformance subwoofer designed specifically to complement the acoustic capabilities of the SCL-1 large format LCR loudspeaker. Designed for horizontal or vertical application in large scale systems, the SSW-1 Subwoofer features dual high-excursion (4” peak-to-peak) 15” castframe woofers with composite cones and massive 6-inch voice coils. The 53.5-inch high x 24- inch wide x 22.8-inch deep subwoofer enclosure is solidly constructed with 1-inch thick cabinet walls and extensive internal bracing throughout and weighs in at more than 330 lb.! Enclosure tuning is via dual front-firing Slipstream ports, while connectivity is provided through two sets of gold-plated, spring-loaded binding posts - one for each woofer. With power handling of 2500W RMS per woofer and 5000W RMS per system, as well as extremely high SPL output and usable low-frequency extension to 13Hz, the SSW-1 seeks to provide the highest levels of sonic performance for custom home theater. The SSW-1 will begin shipping in March 2021 and retails at $7,500 each.

The SCL-1 and SSW-1, introduced at HARMAN’s virtual ExPLORE event are tailored to largescale and high-channel count systems in combination with the SDP-75 immersive surround processor and SDA amplifiers.

Over the last 75 years, JBL has become an icon of audio innovation by way of its unique and storied history with artists, producers and audio engineers to create exceptional listening experiences for consumers around the world. JBL's unwavering commitment to originality, quality and craftsmanship is mirrored in the artists' dedication to their craft and their singular determination to create timeless music and movies. The depth and scale of JBL's innovations in transducer technology and acoustic design is unmatched anywhere. With more patents, awards and iconic deployments, JBL continues to be a force of innovation wherever sound matters.