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Painting AE and PD Series Loudspeaker Enclosures
JBL AE and PD Series loudspeakers are available in black, white or unfinished. When ordering, the
default color is always black. White is signified by a –WH suffix on the model number. Unfinished models
are signified with a –UF suffix and are delivered “paint ready”. JBL recommends that for custom color
installations, the unfinished versions (-UF) should be ordered and painted as required. If however, you
wish to paint an enclosure over the JBL “Duraflex” finish, the instructions below should be used as a
general guide.
DuraFlex is a multi-layer finish. The top aliphatic layer provides a surface to which most paints bond.
Note: Some JBL portable loudspeaker models do not include a top aliphatic coating – these models are
not paintable. All standard AE and PD Series loudspeakers do include a top aliphatic coating and are
paintable.
1) SURFACE PREPARATION
Important:
Do NOT sand or scuff the surface! This could remove the top aliphatic coating
which is required for good paint adhesion.
Prepare the surface by cleaning and wiping dust with a damp cloth. It may be necessary to use a mild
household cleaner to remove grease. If so, be sure to rinse off the detergent and give plenty of time for
the surface to dry completely. Avoid using a cloth that will deteriorate over the textured surface.
2) PRIMING THE SURFACE
Some paints may adhere well directly. Starting with a primer is highly recommended for ensuring proper
long-term adhesion. Use an oil-based primer, not a water-based primer.
3)
PAINT SELECTION
With Primer –
If
you use a primer, select a paint that works well over that primer.
Without Primer –
If
you are applying paint directly without using a primer, oil-based paint is
recommended. Water-based paint does not adhere as well. Avoid epoxy-based paints as they do not
stretch adequately for the expansion and contraction of a wooden loudspeaker cabinet and can crack.
4)
MASKING THE BAFFLE
It is often desirable to leave the baffle (behind the grille) black.
5)
PAINT APPLICATION
Apply as many coats as is required. Paint may be applied by rolling, brushing or spraying.
6)
GRILLE
Care must be taken when painting the grille to avoid clogging the grille backing material (open cell foam
on some models and grille cloth on other models). Clogging the pores will degrade the performance of
the loudspeaker.
Painting Grille with Backing Attached –
It can be very difficult to paint the grille with the backing
attached without clogging the grille backing material.
Removing the Grille Backing –
It is a good idea to remove the grille’s backing (foam or cloth) and
reattach it after painting. Spraying is perhaps the best way to paint the grille.
