Addressing the growing need for high dynamic range and reference-monitor accuracy in a broad range of studio and audiophile environments, JBL developed the M2 Master Reference Monitor: A Free-Standing, 2-Way System to provide an exceptionally accurate listening experience.

Leveraging a new generation of JBL high-output, ultra-low distortion transducers, the M2 provides in-room frequency response of 20 Hz to 40 kHz, and an extraordinary 123 dB maximum SPL to meet the demanding music, cinema and broadcast production requirements for impactful dynamic range.



Room acoustics can play a big part in what you hear at the mix position, particularly in the room-dependent low frequency bands, where resonance caused by room modes can give a false impression of bass in the mix. While offering exceptional accuracy “out of the box,” the power of the M2 is fully realized with its intelligent in-room tuning and integration capabilities, ensuring optimum performance in your listening environment. Room optimization is achieved through the use of floating-point digital signal processing integrated into Crown iTech HD power amplifiers and BSS Soundweb London processors. HARMAN System Architect Software is included to provide external control of system EQ and tuning capabilities. Used in conjunction with external measurement hardware and software, the complete M2 tuning and room integration system addresses non-linearity in the room. This ensures a high degree of accuracy whether the monitors are freestanding, soffit-mounted, or placed adjacent to a wall.


Professional Project Studios
With a compact form factor, flexible placement options, tune-ability, and its integrated system approach, the M2 system eliminates the impediments that have prevented personal-use studios from having the dynamic range and accuracy of a large format monitor system. For the first time, the M2 system enables project studio owners to make the leap from small near-field monitors to a “big”, world-class monitoring experience.

Music Recording Control Rooms
Solid MDF enclosures, front porting and outboard electronics make the M2 soffit mount ready. Eliminating the requirement for outboard equalization, the Crown powered M2 system includes all the EQ needed for detailed room-tuning, and offers the ability to store multiple EQ curves to meet the needs of the application or client preference.

Post Production Control Rooms
While the M2 provides exceptional dynamic range and the resolution needed for demanding remix applications, its compact foot-print allows placement behind the screen in smaller rooms. Used as screen channels, the M2 integrates perfectly into a system with JBL cinema surrounds, subwoofers and overhead surround speakers specified in burgeoning theatrical release formats. Select models in the BSS Soundweb London processor line can be fitted with digital inputs and externally synchronized to house word-clock for an all-digital signal path. Centralized management of EQ presets allow storage and easy recall of curves such as the X-Curve for specialized applications.