Not all homes have the space for elaborate speaker setups, which is where these two-way 8-inch JBL speakers come into play. Each speaker, which features a maximum recommended power level of 120 watts, installs conveniently in the wall at ear level, where the 8-inch polymer-coated aluminum cone woofer and 1-inch pure-titanium dome tweeter combine to produce rich, elegant bass and crisp high tones. To further the audio flexibility, JBL outfitted the tweeters with unique swivel mounts. Listeners can adjust the tweeters to the preferred angle depending on where they're sitting and which angle produces the best overall sound. The units are ideal for use as main speakers in a space-challenged living room (the mounting cutouts measure 8.88 by 11.81 inches), as secondary speakers in an adjacent room (when connected to the main receiver), or even as home theater surround speakers (rear left/right) for watching movies or listening to five-channel audio sources. The speakers are relatively easy to install using a Philips screwdriver, utility knife, tape measure, and carpenter's level. However, it's difficult to move or reposition them once the cutouts are made, so users are advised to take their time when determining the ideal listening location. JBL recommends installing the speakers at approximately the same height as the listener's ears for best results. The speaker set also includes integrated dog-ear brackets for retrofit applications and a template/paint shield that can be used to make the initial cutout or protect the speakers when applying a new paint color to the frame (the speakers come in white).
The speaker terminals accommodate up to 16-gauge speaker cable (not included), which JBL recommends for distances below 20 feet. The company advises using 12-gauge wires for speakers located between 20 and 30 feet from the receiver, and 10-gauge cable for distances above 30 feet.
It's the audio that impresses most, however. The speakers' generous power capacity ensures rich, powerful sound with a frequency response of 30 Hz to 20 kHz. Whether your priority is to spread music throughout the house or make your home theater speakers disappear from sight, JBL's HTI8 speakers get the job done.
What's in the Box
Two HTI8 speakers with grilles, template/paint shield, warranty card, user's manual.
