JBL and RCF are two renowned and well respected brands in the audio industry that produces high quality speakers, soundbars, headphones, and subwoofers and amplifiers. RCF also produces electronics such as receivers and mixers.
In this article, we will cover a general overview of both brands, looking specifically at sound quality, durability, price and so on. Of course, each brand has different devices at different price points, however we will compare them as closely as we can.
JBL is a well-known brand in the audio industry known for its high-quality speakers and headphones, while RCF is a well-regarded brand in the pro audio industry known for its high-quality speakers and other audio equipment.
JBL vs RCF Comparison Table
| Criteria | JBL | RCF |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Reputation | JBL is well-known for its wide range of audio products, including speakers, headphones, and professional audio solutions. | RCF is recognized for its professional audio solutions, particularly high-quality speakers and sound reinforcement systems. |
| Sound Quality | JBL products are known for delivering powerful and dynamic sound, suitable for both consumer and professional applications. | RCF speakers are praised for their high-fidelity sound reproduction and accuracy, catering to professional audio and live sound applications. |
| Build Quality/Design | JBL products often feature durable build quality and practical designs, with a focus on portability in their consumer audio lineup. | RCF speakers showcase robust build quality, often designed for professional use with durable materials and efficient designs. |
| Product Range | JBL offers a diverse range of audio products, including speakers, headphones, soundbars, and professional audio solutions. | RCF provides a comprehensive product range, covering professional speakers, subwoofers, amplifiers, and sound systems. |
| Pricing | JBL products cover various price points, providing options for both entry-level and high-end audio consumers. | RCF products are often positioned in the mid to high price range, reflecting the premium quality and professional-grade performance. |
| Features | JBL products include features such as Bluetooth connectivity, waterproof designs, and advanced audio technologies. | RCF speakers may include features such as high power handling, advanced DSP processing, and versatile connectivity options for professional audio setups. |
Before we continue, you can check out similar comparisons in the series:
Pros and Cons of RCF:
- Pros: A well-respected brand in the professional audio industry, known for producing high-quality speakers and other audio products.
- Cons: May not be as well-known for consumer audio products.
Pros and Cons of JBL:
- Pros: Known for producing a wide range of audio products, including speakers, headphones, and home theater systems. Many of their products are well-regarded for their sound quality and value for money.
- Cons: Some users have reported issues with their devices’ audio cutting out, being muffled or experiencing other issues.
Quick History
JBL Quick History
JBL was founded in 1946 by James Bullough Lansing just after World War II. It is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, USA. The company manufactures amplifiers, loudspeakers, and headphones with the JBL Professional LSR10S being one of its best-selling subs with a class D amp, among other features. It is currently owned by Harman International after its Vice president Bill Thomas sold it in 1969.
In the 1970s, JBL entered the studio industry and launched its new technologies academy of motion pictures’ first full-line portable system in the 1980s. Also, the company was the first to introduce titanium in high-frequency diaphragms.
RCF Quick History
RCF S.p.A. (formerly Radio Cine Forniture) is a well-known Italian manufacturer of high-performance audio devices including loudspeakers, power amplifiers, digital mixers, and digital signal processors (DSPs).
It was founded in 1949 in Reggio Emilia, Italy. The first products sold were microphones and electroacoustic transducers, but today, they have successfully manufactured various other devices that are recognized worldwide.
Sound Quality
JBL Sound Quality
JBL speakers tend to depict a neutral, balanced sound profile. Their bass-heavy audio profile makes them ideal for party and personal use, especially for those looking for deep bass to listen to modern pop and hip hop music. The speakers are also loud with rich sound.
The speakers perform well in both high and low volumes. Built for DJs and other professionals, the speakers are tough and reliable. The Bluetooth speakers have long battery life lasting 24 hours or more.
On the other hand, JBL headphones are packed with features that help them deliver a well-balanced sound that closely follows the Harman curve.
However, the design and fit of these headphones are not very comfortable. A top-of-the-range JBL could sound unique with the depth, power, and accuracy every listener appreciates!
RCF Sound Quality
The audio quality of RCF devices is top-notch. There is powerful bass, distinct mid tones, and sharp highs. All these combine to form a natural and unmuddied output.
Even at the high volumes, you will get a clear sound production.
Features
JBL Features
JBL manufactures futuristic speakers to ensure users can easily fit them into their modern home systems. Bluetooth speakers and subwoofers from JBL, for instance, come with the following features:
- Polypropylene or cellulose-fiber cones
- Rubber surround
- Frequency response depends on specific speakers
- Sensitivity of about 2.83V at 1 meter
- Power handling up to 250W RMS
RCF Features
RCF devices have several user-friendly features incorporated into their devices. Below are some features you can expect from your RCF devices:
- Remote Control via RCF Evox App
- Up to 24-Bit/192kHz playback
- The studio devices are compatible with various recording software such as Cubase and Wavelab
- Innovative DSP Processing
- Versatile connectivity options
Build Quality
JBL Build Quality
JBL speakers are well built with Aluminum, Nickel, and Cobalt which is a strong high-power permanent alloy.
Also, the wireless speakers are high quality and built with solid features. The performance is reliable and they are waterproof which makes them all weather.
The headphones however have a plasticky build that makes them look average despite the well-balanced sound.
RCF Build Quality
All components of RCF devices are made of materials with excellent acoustics and durability.
This includes neodymium magnet drivers, frames of aluminum, steel and several types of plastic, titanium, Kapton, Mylar, fiberglass, Nomex for the driver cones, and several other excellent materials.
Ease of Use
JBL Ease Of Use
Setting up JBL speakers may not be easy if you are not ready to handle the process. However, if your speakers are within the Bluetooth range, JBL speakers will easily pair with nearby devices.
The subwoofers may not be very easy to set depending on your car, but they are easy to use. The wireless headphones are easy to use, whether you want to talk or just listen.
RCF Ease Of Use
RCF devices integrate well into existing audio setups and with third-party software. The controls are well-labelled and easy to locate. The support for PC software, mobile apps, and remotes also makes setup and control a clinch.
Cost
JBL Cost
Bluetooth JBL speakers are available at a range of prices. You can, however, get them between 40 dollars and 400 dollars.
However, the GBL Go is still ranked the most affordable Bluetooth speaker owing to the added value of sound quality and portability. The cost is generally high due to the high cost of engineering, high cost of quality materials, and the cost of advertising.
Headphones: $10 – $200
Amplifiers: $50 – $5000
RCF Cost
The price ranges of some RCF devices are given in the following list:
- Outdoor Speakers: $300 – $3500
- Transducers: from $400
- Studio Speakers: $200 – $2500
Space Requirements
JBL Space Requirements
JBL speakers are built to fit in many room sizes. The Bluetooth speakers are tiny in size and easily portable. Therefore, you can easily place them anywhere in your room or carry them for an outdoor listening experience.
RCF Space Requirements
RCF devices range in size from compact transducers to large outdoor loudspeakers. The TRK PRO1 audio controller measures 46×91.4×125.8mm (HWD) and weighs just 0.5Kg. The much larger and heavier ST 15-SMA II measures 362x673x473mm (HWD) and weighs 20.3Kg.
Remote Controls
JBL Remote Controls
JBL builds remote controls to help with easy and safe control of music together with other call functions on other devices such as smartphones.
JBL Click, for instance, is a mountable Bluetooth controller that makes it easier to control your music and call functions on any smartphone. However, JBL Boombox and JBL Partybox 310 do not have remote controls.
RCF Remote Controls
RCF devices can be remotely controlled using wireless remotes. Other options include the RCF Evox App, and PC software. These can be used for basic control and advanced audio tuning purposes.
Connectivity Options
JBL Connectivity Options
JBL speakers, especially the Bluetooth-enabled ones, connect easily via Bluetooth. In fact, JBL makes them so that you can easily wirelessly connect up to 100 JBL speakers via Bluetooth.
RCF Connectivity Options
Due to the wide scope of applications, RCF devices have various connection options for maximum versatility. These include RCA, XLR, USB, various audio jacks, VDE, Powercon, Bluetooth, and several other choices.
Power Range
JBL Power Range
The speakers have a high power handling capacity. For instance, the 840 Cinema Surround Speaker can handle 350 watts of continuous play, while the JBL Stage 1210 12” woofer can handle up to 250 watts RMS and 1000 watt peak power.
Subwoofers: 50W to 1600W rated power
Speakers: 50W to 250W rated power
Amplifiers: 50W to 800W per channel
RCF Power Range
RCF devices can reach very high power levels due to the efficiency of their amplifiers. The EVOX 12 has 1400W peak power output compared to the ART 912-A at 2100W. The power ranges are usually between 25W and 4000W.
Frequency Response
JBL Frequency Response
JBL speakers work well under various frequency ranges. For instance, the JBL ES Series speaker systems, such as the ES 20, operate between 65 HZ – 40 kHz.
The 840 Very High Power Cinema Surround Speaker for digital surround sound immersion application performs within the 60 Hz to 19 kHz frequency range.
RCF Frequency Response
The frequency responses of RCF devices fully cover the optimum ranges for maximum enjoyment. Their frequency responses range from as low as 20Hz up to 20KHz. The AYRA PRO8 studio monitor has a frequency range from 45 Hz to 20KHz, while the NX 912-A ranges from 45 Hz to 20KHz.
Conclusion
JBL offers a wide range of speakers for all use cases. Although most of them do not have EQs for customized sound, they have a pretty neutral sound profile. Besides, they have an excellent build quality that ensures that the portable JBL sound systems last longer.
RCF devices are all built on versatility. This ensures that they blend well with almost all professional and home audio systems. Plus, there are several OEM parts available for the more DIY-oriented users and for manufacturers.