JBL Control 28-1L Weatherproof Speakers Pair – Indoor/Outdoor” style=”max-width: 100%; height: auto; max-height: 180px; object-fit: contain;”>
Introduction
Looking for professional-grade speakers that deliver powerful, crystal-clear audio both indoors and outdoors? The JBL Professional Control 28-1L stands out as a robust solution for demanding audio setups. Sold as a pair in sleek black, these weatherproof speakers feature an 8-inch woofer, 120-watt power handling at 8 ohms, and broad 100° x 100° coverage, making them ideal for landscapes, patios, retail spaces, and more. Priced at around $700 for the pair, they boast a solid 4.1 out of 5-star rating from 69 customer reviews on Amazon.
In this comprehensive JBL Control 28-1L review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, real-user feedback, and whether it’s the right fit for your audio needs. Whether you’re outfitting a backyard party zone, a restaurant, or a home theater extension, these speakers promise high-output sound with JBL’s renowned reliability. Let’s explore if they live up to the hype.
Product Overview
The JBL Professional Control 28-1L is designed for versatility, excelling in both background and foreground music applications. This 8-ohm version (distinct from the 70V model) is perfect for smaller systems or short cable runs, handling 120 watts continuous power (240 watts program) to fill large spaces without distortion.
Key specifications include:
- Woofer: 8-inch woven fiberglass cone for deep, punchy bass.
- Tweeter: 1-inch PEI diaphragm with fluid cooling for smooth highs and longevity.
- Frequency Response: 45 Hz – 20 kHz, delivering full-range fidelity.
- Coverage: 100° x 100° for even sound distribution.
- Power Handling: 120W RMS / 240W program at 8Ω.
- Build: Weather-resistant enclosure suitable for indoor/outdoor use; available in black (white option separate).
- Mounting: Built-in InvisiBall system for wall, ceiling, or post installation; optional U-bracket sold separately.
These speakers shine in residential whole-house audio, patios, poolside setups, retail stores, restaurants, gyms, theme parks, schools, and hospitality venues. Their contemporary design blends into modern landscapes while prioritizing durability against the elements. Note that some reviews mistakenly reference a 10-inch woofer—this appears to be a user error, as official specs confirm the 8-inch driver.
At $700 for a pair, you’re investing in pro-audio quality without the enterprise price tag. They’re hardwired (not Bluetooth), requiring a compatible amplifier for optimal performance.
Pros
The JBL Control 28-1L earns its stripes with several standout advantages that make it a favorite among audio enthusiasts and professionals. Here are the top 7 pros based on specs and user experiences:
- Exceptional Power and Volume: With 120W handling per speaker, they crank out loud, distortion-free sound even in large areas like 30×40-foot outdoor spaces. Users rave about their ability to “go so loud it’s almost funny” while maintaining control at all volumes.
- Superior Sound Quality: The 8-inch fiberglass woofer delivers impressive bass extension down to 45 Hz, paired with a detailed tweeter for highs up to 20 kHz. Reviewers call it “exquisite” and “high fidelity,” perfect for music and paging.
- Broad, Even Coverage: The 100° x 100° dispersion ensures consistent audio across wide areas, ideal for patios, pools, or commercial venues without hot spots.
- Weatherproof Durability: Built for indoor/outdoor use, these speakers withstand harsh conditions, making them reliable for year-round exposure in restaurants, theme parks, or backyards.
- Versatile Mounting Options: The InvisiBall hardware allows secure, paintable installation on walls, ceilings, or posts. Users praise how it “works very well” for custom setups.
- Professional Build Quality: JBL’s high-design components feel premium, with robust construction that users describe as “at a very high level.” The woven cone and fluid-cooled tweeter promise long-lasting performance.
- Value for Pairs: Sold as a pair at $700, they offer commercial-grade features at a residential-friendly price, outperforming many consumer speakers in power and fidelity.
These pros position the Control 28-1L as a powerhouse for anyone needing reliable, high-output audio.
Cons
No speaker is perfect, and the JBL Control 28-1L has some drawbacks worth noting. Drawing from customer feedback and specs, here are 4 key cons:
- Large Size and Weight: Measuring substantially (users were “shocked” upon unboxing), these are not compact. They’re best for spaces where size isn’t an issue, and the internal transformers add heft (removable for lighter setups).
- Requires a Powerful Amplifier: Not suited for weak receivers or “B” terminals—these demand at least 250W per channel (or 120W minimum). Pairing with inadequate power leads to underwhelming performance.
- No Wireless Connectivity: Despite some listings implying otherwise, they’re hardwired only—no Bluetooth. This surprises users expecting plug-and-play wireless audio.
- Occasional Quality Control Issues: Rare reports of defective units (e.g., distortion in one speaker) highlight potential manufacturing hiccups, with frustration over returns.
Additionally, some users note minor cabinet “coloration” or resonance on specific music, though it’s seldom a dealbreaker.
Customer Reviews Analysis
With a 4.1/5 rating from 69 reviews, the JBL Control 28-1L garners mostly praise for its pro-level performance, tempered by practical caveats. Positive feedback dominates, focusing on sound and build, while negatives center on logistics and expectations.
Positive Highlights:
- Sound and Power: A 5-star reviewer powered them with a 250W Sonos amp, declaring the bass “the best 10-inch [sic] I have heard” (noting the official 8-inch). They excel at high volumes in private spaces, sounding “controlled at all volumes.”
- Build and Versatility: Users love the mounting and quality, with one French review simply stating, “Vraiment un bin sin puissant et juste ! Qualité JBL !” (Truly a powerful and accurate sound system! JBL quality!).
- Real-World Use: Excellent for outdoor 30×40 spaces at 90 dB, pairing well with amps like the JBL VMA 1120.
Negative Feedback:
- Size Shock: Common surprise at their bulk, though installation resolves it.
- Misleading Listings: Complaints about non-Bluetooth functionality despite Prime suggestions.
- Defects and Support: One user reported a distorted speaker with poor Amazon replacement service, dropping to 0 stars.
- Power Needs: Warnings against underpowered setups, as receiver “B” outputs fall short.
Overall, 80%+ of reviews are 4-5 stars, praising JBL’s engineering. Negatives (often 1-2 stars) stem from mismatched expectations rather than inherent flaws. Common themes: Pair with a strong amp, ample space, and wired systems for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common queries about the JBL Professional Control 28-1L:
1. Are the JBL Control 28-1L speakers Bluetooth-enabled?
No, these are hardwired speakers requiring an external amplifier. They’re not wireless—ideal for fixed installations, not portable use.
2. Can these speakers be used indoors and outdoors?
Yes, their weather-resistant design suits both. Perfect for patios, pools, restaurants, or indoor retail/background music.
3. What amplifier do they need?
A minimum 120W per channel at 8 ohms; 250W recommended for full potential. Avoid receiver secondary outputs—opt for dedicated amps like Sonos or JBL VMA series.
4. How do you mount them?
InvisiBall hardware allows swivel/pivot on walls, ceilings, or posts. U-brackets available separately for added flexibility.
5. Are they sold as a single unit or pair?
Sold as a pair in black. White versions available separately.
Who Should Buy This Product
The JBL Control 28-1L is tailored for users prioritizing power and coverage over compactness or simplicity. Ideal buyers include:
- Homeowners with Large Outdoor Spaces: Patios, poolsides, or landscapes needing loud, even sound for parties.
- Commercial Venues: Restaurants, retail stores, gyms, cafes, hotels, or theme parks requiring durable foreground/background audio.
- Audio Enthusiasts: Those with powerful amps (e.g., Sonos, pro AV systems) wanting JBL’s pro sound at home.
- Installers: Pros handling educational facilities or leisure spots demanding weatherproof reliability.
Skip if you need Bluetooth, tiny speakers, or low-power setups—these thrive in big, amplified environments.
Final Verdict
The JBL Professional Control 28-1L delivers exceptional value as a pair of high-output, weatherproof speakers for $700. Their 8-inch woofer, broad coverage, and pro build earn a strong thumbs-up for versatile indoor/outdoor use, backed by a 4.1-star rating praising bass, volume, and durability. While size, amp requirements, and rare defects temper enthusiasm, they outperform consumer alternatives in demanding scenarios.
Overall Rating: 4.3/5. Buy if you have space, power, and wired infrastructure—these will transform your audio setup. For casual, wireless needs, look elsewhere. JBL’s Control 28-1L proves why it’s a staple in professional installations.
