Overview

The JBL S4700 is a large-format 3-way floorstanding loudspeaker that represents JBL’s approach to high-end consumer audio technology. Built upon professional-grade technology from the acclaimed Project K2 S9900 series, the S4700 features a 15-inch cast-frame woofer with dual voice coils, a 1.75-inch titanium compression driver, and a 0.75-inch titanium compression driver with Bi-Radial horn loading. Housed in a furniture-grade cherry wood veneer enclosure measuring 42.1” × 19.7” × 14.6” and weighing 120 pounds, the S4700 exemplifies JBL’s traditional approach to large-scale loudspeaker design. Originally priced at 10,000 USD each (MSRP), the model has been recently discontinued.

Scientific Validity

Scientific Validity cannot be evaluated due to insufficient measurement data. Despite extensive research, no credible third-party measurements (THD, IMD, detailed frequency response, S/N ratio) were found for the JBL S4700. While manufacturer specifications list basic parameters like frequency response (38Hz-40kHz at -6dB) and sensitivity (94dB), these lack the precision and independence required for proper scientific evaluation. According to the evaluation framework, when credible third-party measurements are unavailable and manufacturer specifications lack audio-quality-relevant information, Scientific Validity is set to 0.5.

Technology Level

The S4700 demonstrates solid professional-grade speaker technology with in-house development capabilities. JBL’s proprietary compression driver and horn technology, derived from the Project K2 S9900 professional series, represents mature and proven engineering. The dual titanium compression drivers with Bi-Radial horn loading and 15-inch cast-frame woofer with dual 3-inch voice coils and neodymium motor showcase appropriate technical sophistication for a high-performance loudspeaker. However, the technology represents established approaches rather than cutting-edge innovation, lacking modern DSP integration or AI-enhanced features that characterize contemporary high-end designs.

Cost-Performance

Equipped with equivalent 94dB sensitivity, 15-inch woofer, and 3-way configuration, the Cerwin-Vega SL-15 provides equivalent user-facing functionality as a large 3-way floorstanding speaker with similar efficiency. CP = 799 USD ÷ 8,250 USD = 0.097, rounded to 0.1. Both speakers feature 15-inch woofers, 94dB sensitivity, and 3-way design delivering comparable performance characteristics. The SL-15’s 400W power handling and 28Hz-26kHz frequency response provide equivalent basic performance parameters. The substantial price differential of over 10:1 demonstrates extremely poor cost-performance, as equivalent efficiency and driver configuration can be obtained at a fraction of the cost.

Reliability & Support

The S4700 benefits from JBL’s established support infrastructure with a 5-year warranty for non-powered speakers, exceeding the industry standard of 2 years. JBL provides global support through Harman with comprehensive customer service including phone support and established repair networks. The robust construction featuring cast-frame drivers and internally braced cabinet design supports long-term reliability. JBL’s 75+ year manufacturing history demonstrates strong reliability track records. However, the recent discontinuation of the model creates uncertainty about long-term parts availability, and the 120-pound weight presents practical challenges for service calls.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

JBL demonstrates scientific rationality through measurement-based development approaches, including Linear Spatial Reference Technology that measures 1296 times more information than single on-axis response curves. The design philosophy emphasizes professional validation through real-world studio applications and proven Project K2 technology transfer to consumer products. High-quality components including titanium compression drivers and cast-frame woofer construction directly contribute to performance objectives. The 3-way design with specialized drivers provides appropriate frequency range coverage and horn loading offers measurable efficiency benefits. The compression driver approach represents rational engineering for high-efficiency applications. While lacking modern DSP integration, the analog design philosophy maintains signal path simplicity and avoids potential digital processing artifacts.

Advice

The JBL S4700 represents a specialized approach to high-end loudspeaker design that may appeal to users seeking professional-grade compression driver technology in a consumer format. The unique combination of large-format drivers, horn loading, and JBL’s professional heritage offers distinctive characteristics for high-efficiency applications. However, potential purchasers should consider the lack of independent measurement data for performance verification, the recent discontinuation status affecting long-term support, and the substantial space and power requirements. The 8,250 USD current market price represents extremely poor value when equivalent 94dB sensitivity and 15-inch 3-way configuration can be obtained from alternatives like the Cerwin-Vega SL-15 at 799 USD, delivering the same basic performance parameters at over 10 times lower cost.

References

[1] JBL - S4700 Official Product Page, https://www.jbl.com/floorstanding/JBL+S4700-.html, accessed 2025-09-19 [2] Audio Advice - JBL S4700 Specifications, https://www.audioadvice.com/jbl-s4700-floorstanding-speaker, accessed 2025-09-19 [3] USA Tube Audio - JBL S4700 Pricing, https://www.usatubeaudio.com/product/speakers/floor-standing-speakers/jbl-synthesis-s4700/, accessed 2025-09-19 [4] JBL Support - Warranty Policy, https://support.jbl.com/in/en/policy-legal/Warranty+Policy.html, accessed 2025-09-19 [5] Cerwin-Vega - SL-15 Official Product Page, https://cerwinvega.com/products/sl-15, accessed 2025-09-19 [6] Amazon - Cerwin-Vega SL-15 Pricing, https://www.amazon.com/Cerwin-Vega-SL-15-3-Way-Floor-Speaker/dp/B00JPDMXE4, accessed 2025-09-19

(2025.9.19)