Floorstanding loudspeakers — JBL S4700

The S4700 is a floorstanding loudspeaker from JBL's Synthesis-derived range, built around a high-sensitivity compression driver and horn. This model draws directly on JBL's professional cinema and studio monitoring heritage, bringing a considerably more ambitious horn-loaded design into a domestic floorstanding format than the more accessible HDI range offers.

Position in line

It sits above the HDI-3600 in JBL's floorstanding hierarchy, near the Stage A190 in general positioning. As a Synthesis-derived model, the S4700 likely represents a considerably more serious engineering effort than JBL's HDI range, drawing on the brand's professional cinema sound heritage in a way the more consumer-oriented HDI series does not.

Key specs that matter

Rated response is 38 Hz to 40 kHz. Sensitivity is a high 94 dB into 6 ohms with power handling specified under 300 W. At 06.8 x 50.0 x 37.1 cm and 54.5 kg it is a substantial, heavy tower, its considerable weight and high sensitivity both consistent with a serious horn-loaded compression driver design.

Sound and use context

Expect a highly dynamic, effortless presentation typical of JBL's high-sensitivity horn-loaded designs, reaching high volume with ease from modest amplifier power - this is a different listening experience from a conventional direct-radiating tower, generally described as more immediate and effortless at any given volume.

Pairing

The 94 dB sensitivity suits low-power tube amplifiers as readily as more modest solid-state designs, opening up amplifier choices that would be entirely impractical with a less efficient loudspeaker.

Alternatives

The HDI-3600 sits below this model with lower sensitivity and a more compact cabinet, worth considering if this model's considerable size and weight exceed what a specific room can comfortably accommodate. Given the considerable price and scale this model represents within JBL's catalogue, a dealer demonstration is strongly worthwhile before committing, ideally with the specific amplifier intended for the eventual system, since a horn-loaded design of this sensitivity can occasionally reveal amplifier noise or hiss that a less efficient speaker would mask. The substantial 54.5 kg weight per cabinet also means delivery and placement logistics deserve careful planning in advance. A qualified installer can also advise on the best amplifier match given the demanding combination of high sensitivity and a 6 ohm nominal load.