B&C Speakers 8 PS 21

An 8-inch B&C Focused on Bass-Midrange, Optimized for Compact Formats

The B&C 8PS21 falls into the bass/midrange category: it aims for a balance between impact, articulation, and control rather than emphasizing sub-bass. Its 8-inch size facilitates integration into compact enclosures while maintaining sufficient radiating surface to produce a present low-midrange. With a recommended enclosure volume of 14 liters and a tuning frequency of 73 Hz, it naturally suits projects where reduced size is desired without sacrificing the consistency of the bass-midrange register.

Who Is It For and What Are Its Uses?

This loudspeaker is primarily intended for speaker designers (DIYers, workshops, manufacturers) and technicians seeking a reliable transducer to build or refurbish a speaker. Its frequency range (70 Hz to 3 kHz) makes it relevant as a bass-midrange driver in a two-way speaker (paired with a compression driver or tweeter above), or as a low-mid element in more complex designs.

Thanks to its combination of efficiency and power handling, the 8PS21 is particularly suitable for compact stage monitors, small front-of-house speakers, reinforced nearfield monitors, or systems where clarity of vocals and instruments in the lower spectrum (guitars, keyboards, snare and toms, lower vocals) is a priority. In such applications, a well-controlled 8-inch driver often delivers faster attack and cleaner low-midrange than a larger diameter driver housed in an enclosure that is too small.

Design and Key Features in Use

2-inch (51 mm) copper voice coil: durability and control

The 8PS21 features a 2-inch (51 mm) copper voice coil. This size is a good compromise: large enough to handle high power while retaining the responsiveness expected from an 8-inch bass-midrange driver. Practically, this contributes to a sense of durability, with a low-midrange register that remains stable as volume increases.

Ferrite magnet: stability and consistent behavior

The ferrite magnet is a classic choice in sound reinforcement: it promotes consistent performance and a coherent sonic signature, with robust construction. It is a favored option for speakers designed to be used regularly, handled, and subjected to long-term use.

Double-roll surround, exponential cone, single spider: mobility and response tailored to bass-midrange

The double-roll surround contributes to good excursion capability and smooth operation, useful for supporting the low-frequency range. The Xmax of 5.0 mm aligns with this goal: providing mechanical margin that helps maintain control during dynamic passages. The exponential cone is a relevant choice to shape the response and promote effective projection in the bass-midrange area. Finally, the single spider reflects a straightforward and proven architecture, well suited to this transducer's mission.

Tuning and recommended volume: a clear starting point for enclosure design

The recommended enclosure volume is 14 liters with a tuning frequency of 73 Hz. This is valuable information to start designing a coherent bass-reflex enclosure and to limit unnecessary trial and error. Parameters such as Fs 73 Hz and Qts 0.33 confirm this orientation: a compact enclosure with useful, clean, and efficient bass, and a natural transition to a high-frequency driver above.

Technical specifications

Rackable	No	Type	Speakers
Category	sound reinforcement accessory

Power	400 W AES	Spider	single
Impedance	8 Ohms	Fs	73 Hz
Sensitivity	94 dB (1 W / 1 m)	Qts	0.33
Frequency response	70 Hz - 3 kHz	Xmax	5.0 mm
Nominal diameter	8 inches (21 cm)	Total diameter	225 mm
Voice coil	2 inches (51 mm), copper wire	Height	91 mm
Magnet	ferrite	Weight	3.3 kg
Surround	double-roll	Volume	14 liters
Cone	exponential	Tuning	73 Hz