1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your JBL Professional Control 23-1 Ultra-Compact Indoor/Outdoor Background/Foreground Speakers. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to install or operate the speakers to ensure safe and optimal performance.

Image 1.1: Front angled view of two JBL Professional Control 23-1 speakers.
The Control 23-1 is a two-way speaker designed for background and foreground music applications in various indoor and outdoor environments. It features a 3-inch woofer and a 1/2-inch PEI diaphragm tweeter, offering consistent sound dispersion.
2. Important Safety Information
Observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the speakers or injury to personnel:
- Read Instructions: Retain this manual for future reference.
- Heed Warnings: Follow all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
- Installation: Ensure speakers are securely mounted using appropriate hardware and techniques. Consult a qualified installer if unsure.
- Power: Connect speakers to amplifiers with compatible power ratings. Overpowering can cause damage.
- Water and Moisture: While weather-resistant, avoid direct exposure to extreme weather conditions or submersion.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
3. What's in the Box
Your JBL Professional Control 23-1 package should contain the following items:
- JBL Professional Control 23-1 Speakers (Pair)
- InvisiBall Mounting Hardware
- Installation Guide
4. Setup
4.1 Mounting Options
The Control 23-1 speakers feature built-in InvisiBall mounting hardware for versatile installation. An optional U-bracket is also available for specific mounting requirements.

Image 4.1: Side view of a speaker demonstrating the InvisiBall mounting system.
The InvisiBall system allows for flexible aiming of the speaker after installation. To adjust, loosen the InvisiBall screw, position the speaker, and then tighten the screw securely.

Image 4.2: Detailed view of the InvisiBall mounting mechanism.
4.2 Wiring and Connections
The Control 23-1 speakers can be operated in a direct 8Ω setting or with the built-in 15 Watt 70V/100V multi-tap transformer. Ensure the correct setting is selected before connecting to an amplifier.

Image 4.3: Rear panel showing input terminals and transformer tap selector.
The rotary switch on the rear panel allows selection between 8Ω direct operation and various 70V/100V transformer tap settings. For 8Ω operation, ensure the switch is set to the '8Ω' position. For constant voltage systems, select the appropriate wattage tap (e.g., 3.7W, 7.5W, 15W) for your 70V or 100V line.

Image 4.4: Close-up of the transformer tap selector dial.
Connect speaker wires to the input terminals, ensuring correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative) from your amplifier.
5. Operation
5.1 Power Handling
The Control 23-1 speakers have a power handling capacity of 50 Watts (100 Watt program). Ensure your amplifier's output power matches these specifications to prevent damage and ensure optimal sound quality.
5.2 Audio Output
Once properly connected and powered, the speakers will reproduce audio from your connected source. Adjust volume levels from your amplifier or audio source. Avoid operating at excessively high volumes for prolonged periods to prevent distortion and potential speaker damage.
6. Maintenance
The JBL Professional Control 23-1 speakers require minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the speaker enclosures. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or excessive moisture.
- Inspection: Periodically check mounting hardware for tightness and speaker cables for any signs of wear or damage.
- Environmental Protection: While designed for outdoor use, protecting the speakers from extreme weather conditions when not in use can extend their lifespan.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Control 23-1 speakers, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- No Sound:
- Check all cable connections from the amplifier to the speakers.
- Ensure the amplifier is powered on and functioning correctly.
- Verify the correct input source is selected on your amplifier.
- Confirm the transformer tap switch on the speaker is set correctly (8Ω or appropriate voltage tap).
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the volume level from your amplifier or audio source.
- Check for damaged speaker cables or loose connections.
- Ensure the amplifier is not being overdriven.
- Intermittent Sound:
- Inspect all connections for looseness or corrosion.
- Check for damaged speaker wire.
If problems persist, contact JBL Professional customer support or a qualified service technician.
8. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the JBL Professional Control 23-1 speakers:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | CONTROL 23-1 |
| Speaker Type | Ultra-Compact Indoor/Outdoor Background/Foreground Speaker |
| Woofer Diameter | 3 Inches (woven fiberglass cone) |
| Tweeter Diameter | 1/2 Inch (PEI diaphragm with fluid cooling) |
| Power Handling | 50 Watts (Continuous Program Power: 100 Watts) |
| Nominal Impedance | 8 Ohms |
| Transformer Taps | 70V: 15W, 7.5W, 3.7W; 100V: 15W, 7.5W |
| Frequency Response | 8 GHz (Note: This value seems unusually high for audio frequency response and may be a data entry error. Typical audio range is 20 Hz - 20 kHz.) |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 5.55" x 7.87" x 4.72" (141mm x 200mm x 120mm) |
| Item Weight | 4.2 Pounds (1.9 kg) per speaker |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Fiberglass, PEI |
| Mounting Type | InvisiBall (built-in), U-bracket (optional) |
| Special Feature | Weather Resistant |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Warranty Information
The JBL Professional Control 23-1 speakers come with a Limited Warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official JBL Professional website for detailed terms and conditions.
9.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact JBL Professional customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the JBL Professional website or in your product documentation.





