Page 1
Simple Setup Guide
120V
ESC
230
TM
Thank you for choosing JBL. For more than 50 years, JBL has been involved in every aspect of
music and film recording and reproduction, from live performances to the recordings you play
in your home, car or office. We’re confident that the JBL system you have chosen will provide
every note of enjoyment that you expected – and that when you think about purchasing
additional audio equipment for your home, car or office, you will once again choose JBL. Please
take a moment to complete the enclosed profile card. It enables us to keep you posted on our
latest advancements, and helps us to better understand our customers and to build products
that meet their needs and expectations.
JBL Consumer Products
®
Page 2
1. Read Instructions. All the safety and
operating instructions should be read before
the product is operated.
2. Retain Instructions. The safety and
operating instructions should be retained for
future reference.
3. Heed Warnings. All warnings on the
product and in the operating instructions
should be adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions. All operating and
use instructions should be followed.
5. Cleaning. Unplug this product from the
wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid
cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth
for cleaning.
6. Attachments. Do not use attachments not
recommended by the product manufacturer,
as they may cause hazards.
7. Water and Moisture. Do not use this
product near water–for example, near a
bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry
tub; in a wet basement; near a swimming
pool; or the like.
8. Accessories. Do not place this product on
an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or
table. The product may fall, causing serious
injury to a child or adult, and serious
damage to the product. Use only with a cart,
stand, tripod, bracket or table recommended
by the manufacturer, or sold with the product.
Any mounting of the product should follow
the manufacturer’s instructions, and should
use a mounting accessory recommended by
the manufacturer.
9. A Product and Cart
Combination Should Be
Moved with Care. Quick
stops, excessive force and
uneven surfaces may cause
the product and cart combination to
overturn.
10. Ventilation. Slots and openings in the
cabinet are provided for ventilation and to
ensure reliable operation of the product and
to protect it from overheating, and these
openings must not be blocked or covered.
The openings should never be blocked by
placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug or
other similar surface. This product should not
be placed in a built-in installation, such as a
bookcase or rack, unless proper ventilation is
provided or the manufacturer’s instructions
have been adhered to.
11. Power Sources. This product should be
operated only from the type of power source
indicated on the marking label. If you are
not sure of the type of power supply to your
home, consult your product dealer or local
power company. For products intended to
operate from battery power, or other sources,
refer to the operating instructions.
12. Grounding or Polarization. This product
may be equipped with a polarized alternatingcurrent-line plug (a plug having one blade
wider than the other). This plug will fit into
the power outlet only one way. This is a
safety feature. If you are unable to insert the
plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the
plug. If the plug should still fail to fit,
contact your electrician to replace your
obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety
purpose of the polarized plug.
13. Power-Cord Protection. Power-supply
cords should be routed so that they are not
likely to be walked on or pinched by items
placed upon or against them, paying
particular attention to cords at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the product.
14. Nonuse Periods. The power cord of the
product should be unplugged from the outlet
when left unused for long periods of time.
15. Outdoor Antenna Grounding. If an
outside antenna or cable system is connected
to the product, be sure the antenna or cable
system is grounded so as to provide some
protection against voltage surges and built-up
static charges. Article 810 of the National
Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides
information with regard to proper grounding
of the mast and supporting structure,
grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna
discharge unit, size of grounding conductors,
location of antenna-discharge unit,
connection to grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding electrode. See
Figure 1.
16. Lightning. For added protection for this
product during a lightning storm, or when
it is left unattended and unused for long
periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet
and disconnect the antenna or cable system.
This will prevent damage to the product due
to lightning and power-line surges.
17. Power Lines. An outside antenna system
should not be located in the vicinity of
overhead power lines or other electric light or
power circuits, or where it can fall into such
power lines or circuits. When installing an
outside antenna system, extreme care should
be taken to keep from touching such power
lines or circuits, as contact with them might
be fatal.
18. Overloading. Do not overload wall
outlets, extension cords, or integral
convenience receptacles, as this can result in
a risk of fire or electric shock.
19. Object and Liquid Entry. Never push
objects of any kind into this product through
openings, as they may touch dangerous
voltage points or short-out parts that could
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill
liquid of any kind on the product.
20. Servicing. Do not attempt to service this
product yourself, as opening or removing
covers may expose you to dangerous voltage
or other hazards. Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel.
21. Damage Requiring Service. Unplug this
product from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel
under the following conditions:
a. The power-supply cord or the plug has
been damaged; or
b. Objects have fallen onto, or liquid has
been spilled into, the product; or
c. The product has been exposed to rain or
water; or
d. The product does not operate normally
when following the operating instructions.
Adjust only those controls that are covered
by the operating instructions, as an improper
adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work
by a qualified technician to restore the
product to its normal operation; or
e. The product has been dropped or
damaged in any way; or
f. The product exhibits a distinct
change in performance; this indicates a
need for service.
22. Replacement Parts. When replacement
parts are required, be sure the service
technician has used replacement parts
specified by the manufacturer or that have the
same characteristics as the original part.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock or other hazards.
23. Safety Check. Upon completion of any
service or repairs to this product, ask the
service technician to perform safety checks
to determine that the product is in proper
operating condition.
24. Wall or Ceiling Mounting. The product
should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as
recommended by the manufacturer.
25. Heat. The product should be situated
away from heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves or other products (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
read first!
Important Safety Precautions!
Figure 1.
Example of Antenna Grounding as per
National ElectricalCode ANSI/NFPA 70
Part No. JBLULB 10/99
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock,
do not remove the grounding plug
on the power cord, or use any plug
or extension cord that does not have
a grounding plug provided.
Make certain that the
AC outlet is properly grounded.
Do not use an adapter plug
with this product.
The lightning flash with arrowhead
symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying
the appliance.
Antenna Lead-In Wire
Ground Clamp
Antenna Discharge Unit (NEC Section 810-20)
Grounding Conductors (NEC Section 810-21)
Electric Service Equipment
Ground Clamps
Power Service Grounding Electrode System
(NEC Art. 250, Part H)
Page 3
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+–+–+
–
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
Please read this manual carefully before you begin
Included:
• Dolby*Pro Logic*processor (main unit) with 6 amplifiers and 6-channel direct inputs for use with external decoders
• 5 Video-shielded satellites, wall-mountable, for front, center and rear channels
• Powerful subwoofer for deep bass
• Remote control
• All necessary cables and wires
• Complete, simple-to-follow setup guide
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
RED TAG
5’
BLACK TAG
9’
WHITE TAG
28’
{
{
{
{
{
{
{
CENTER
FRONT SUB
REAR
ESC230 Main Unit.
Front, rear
and center
speakers with
rotating logo.
Subwoofer.
Cables.
Remote.
Wall-Mounting Your Satellites
The satellites may be wallmounted. The customer is
responsible for proper selection
and use of mounting hardware
available through hardware
stores to properly and safely
wall-mount the satellites. This
product is not intended for
ceiling mounting.
Batteries.
4
Page 4
Speaker Placement
For optimum performance, follow these guidelines when placing the speakers.
1
0 – 2 ft.
Place the center speaker even with the left and
right speakers, or slightly behind them.
Place all three front speakers at approximately the
same height (height of ears preferable).
5
– 6 ft.
Front Speakers
Place the front left and right speakers
on the sides of the television. The distance
between them should be the same as the
distance from the television to the listener.
The center-channel speaker should be
placed on top of the television.
Surround Speakers
The surround speakers should be placed 5'– 6' high and
parallel to the main listening area, facing each other.
Alternatively, they may be mounted on a wall behind the
listening area, facing forward.
5
Page 5
Speaker Connection
2
ESC230
Surround Processor/Amplifier
JBL Incorporated. Northridge. California. USA
LEFT
RIGHT
SUB
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6 CHANNEL INPUT
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratiories Licensing Corporation
"Dolby", the double-D symbol and "Pro Logic" are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
_
__ ___
++ ++++
RIGHT RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT LEFT
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE: 8Ω
FRONT SPEAKERS REAR SPEAKERS
RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT
DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION
AGAINST RISK OF FIRE. REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.
CAUTION:
DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE. UTILIZER UN FUSIBLE DE
RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.
ATTENTION:
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS:
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
SUBWOOFER
CENTER
SPEAKER
F 1.6A
CAUTION:
SEE OPERATION MANUAL
ATTENTION:
VOIR LE CAHIER D INDTRUCTION
MODEL : ESC230
AC SUPPLY : 120VAC / 60HZ~
INPUT POWER : 140 Watts
FUSE : F 1.6A
INPUT 1 INPUT 2 OUTPUT 1/2
– +
– +
– +
– +
– +
– +
Front Right Speaker
Rear Right Speaker Rear Left Speaker
Front Left Speaker
Center Speaker
Subwoofer
To connect your speakers,
press down on the quickrelease tab, which opens
the terminal for the speaker
wire, and put the bare end
of the wire in straight.
Release the tab and give
the speaker wire a gentle
tug. If it’s in properly, it
won’t “give” at all. If it
slides, repeat the procedure.
Use the shortest wire for the
CENTER speaker, the two
medium-length wires for the
FRONT speakers and the
long wires for the REAR
speakers.
Always insert the REDcoated wire into the RED
terminals and the BLACKcoated wire into the
BLACK terminals on each of
your speakers and on the
appropriate terminal on the
back of the Main Unit.
Back of Speaker
Red Black
Make sure you match
RED to RED and BLACK
to BLACK on both ends.
On optional
stands.
Part No.
FS10/20.
Rotating logo.
Pull out gently and turn.
Subwoofer
The subwoofer should be placed
along the front wall. Bass output
will increase as the subwoofer is
moved closer to a corner.
Speaker Placement (Cont.)
1
6
+ +
+
–
Page 6
ESC230
Surround Processor/Amplifier
JBL Incorporated. Northridge. California. USA
LEFT
RIGHT
SUB
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6 CHANNEL INPUT
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratiories Licensing Corporation
"Dolby", the double-D symbol and "Pro Logic" are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
_
__ ___
++ ++++
RIGHT RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT LEFT
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE: 8Ω
FRONT SPEAKERS REAR SPEAKERS
RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT
DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION
AGAINST RISK OF FIRE. REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.
CAUTION:
DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE. UTILIZER UN FUSIBLE DE
RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.
ATTENTION:
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS:
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
SUBWOOFER
CENTER
SPEAKER
F 1.6A
CAUTION:
SEE OPERATION MANUAL
ATTENTION:
VOIR LE CAHIER D INSTRUCTION
MODEL : ESC230
AC SUPPLY : 120VAC / 60HZ~
INPUT POWER : 140 Watts
FUSE : F 1.6A
INPUT 1 INPUT 2 OUTPUT 1/2
Stereo TV
Stereo VCR
or DVD Player
or CD Player
Audio
Out
Audio
Out
Additional
Audio Equipment
(optional)
R
L
R
L
Source Connection (TV or VCR)
3
4
DVD Player with Built-In Dolby Digital or
DTS
®
Processor or Outboard Surround Processor
ESC230
Surround Processor/Amplifier
JBL Incorporated. Northridge. California. USA
SUB
LEFT
RIGHT
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6 CHANNEL INPUT
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratiories Licensing Corporation
"Dolby", the double-D symbol and "Pro Logic" are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
_
__ ___
++ ++++
RIGHT RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT LEFT
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE: 8Ω
FRONT SPEAKERS REAR SPEAKERS
RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT
DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION
AGAINST RISK OF FIRE. REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.
CAUTION:
DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE. UTILIZER UN FUSIBLE DE
RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.
ATTENTION:
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS:
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
SUBWOOFER
CENTER
SPEAKER
F 1.6A
CAUTION:
SEE OPERATION MANUAL
ATTENTION:
VOIR LE CAHIER D INSTRUCTION
MODEL : ESC230
AC SUPPLY : 120VAC / 60HZ~
INPUT POWER : 140 Watts
FUSE : F 1.6A
INPUT 1 INPUT 2 OUTPUT 1/2
LEFT
RIGHT
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6 CHANNEL OUTPUT
DVD PLAYER OR
SURROUND PROCESSOR
LEFT
RIGHT
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6-Channel Digital Direct
If you have a DVD player or surround
processor with a built-in Dolby Digital or
DTS processor, connect the 6 outputs of
the DVD player/processor as shown.
Please check that all 5 satellites and the
subwoofer are configured correctly through
the DVD player or the outboard processor.
Depending on the product you own, you may
have to configure these settings using the
on-screen display of the DVD player or the
outboard processor. Make sure that the
satellites are set to On and are in Small
mode, and that the subwoofer is also set to On.
The ESC230 is equipped with a
line-level output that allows you
to send the same audio signal
to additional audio equipment,
such as an amplifier and speakers
in another location.
7
Page 7
7
5
Source Connection (Headphone)
Turn On
The Master Power Switch should be turned off when the unit will be unused for a long period of time.
ESC230
Surround Processor/Amplifier
JBL Incorporated. Northridge. California. USA
LEFT
RIGHT
SUB
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6 CHANNEL INPUT
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratiories Licensing Corporation
"Dolby", the double-D symbol and "Pro Logic" are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
_
__ ___
++ ++++
RIGHT RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT LEFT
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE: 8Ω
FRONT SPEAKERS REAR SPEAKERS
RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT
DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION
AGAINST RISK OF FIRE. REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.
CAUTION:
DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE. UTILIZER UN FUSIBLE DE
RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.
ATTENTION:
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS :
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
SUBWOOFER
CENTER
SPEAKER
F 1.6A
CAUTION:
SEE OPERATION MANUAL
ATTENTION:
VOIR LE CAHIER D INSTRUCTION
MODEL : ESC230
AC SUPPLY : 120VAC / 60HZ~
INPUT POWER : 140 Watts
FUSE : F 1.6A
INPUT 1 INPUT 2 OUTPUT 1/2
AC 120V
60Hz
6
Plug In
Note: The unit will return to default settings when the Master Power Switch is turned off.
Stereo TV
with
Headphone
Output
Only
ESC230
Surround Processor/Amplifier
JBL Incorporated. Northridge. California. USA
LEFT
RIGHT
SUB
FRONT
REAR
CENTER
6 CHANNEL INPUT
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratiories Licensing Corporation
"Dolby", the double-D symbol and "Pro Logic" are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
_
__ ___
++ ++++
RIGHT RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT LEFT
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE: 8Ω
FRONT SPEAKERS REAR SPEAKERS
RIGHT RIGHTLEFT LEFT
DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION
AGAINST RISK OF FIRE. REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.
CAUTION:
DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE. UTILIZER UN FUSIBLE DE
RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.
ATTENTION:
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS:
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
SUBWOOFER
CENTER
SPEAKER
F 1.6A
CAUTION:
SEE OPERATION MANUAL
ATTENTION:
VOIR LE CAHIER D INSTRUCTION
MODEL : ESC230
AC SUPPLY : 120VAC / 60HZ~
INPUT POWER : 140 Watts
FUSE : F 1.6A
INPUT 1 INPUT 2 OUTPUT 1/2
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
––––
–
–
–
8
Page 8
8
Surround Modes
Dolby Pro Logic
Use this mode for films recorded
using Dolby Surround. The
surround channels have a
20-ms delay.
Hall/Concert
These modes create surround
sound from stereo recordings.
The center channel is not used
and the surround channels have
a 20-ms delay. Repeated pressing
and releasing of the button
provides access to these two
modes.
Stereo
This mode plays two-channel
recordings through the front left
and right speakers.
6-Channel Direct Digital
If you have a DVD player or
surround processor with a built-in
Dolby Digital or DTS processor, this
mode will provide the best quality
surround-sound presentation.
TEST
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Test Mode and Level Adjustments
9
Test Tone
The test tone is used to calibrate the level settings of the
speakers. A static noise will be heard cycling, in order, from
the front left, center, right and both surround speakers.
Using the remote control, adjust the Center and Surround
levels until the volume of all the speakers is the same during
the test. The test tone is used to calibrate the performance
of the system. When listening to an actual recording, the
volume level of the surround channels is generally much
lower than that of the front channels. In fact, when listening
to a movie, virtually all of the dialogue and a substantial
number of effects are reproduced through the center channel.
Dolby Pro Logic, Hall and Concert Modes
1. Push the Test button on the remote control.
2. When the test tone is heard from the center speaker, push the +
or – Ctr/Rear Level button to match the volume of the center
channel to the front left and right channels.
3. When the test tone is heard from the surround speakers, push
the + or – Ctr/Rear Level button to match the volume of the
rear channels to the front.
6-Channel Input
1. Push the Test button on the remote control. The test tone
will cycle through all channels.
2. When the test tone is heard from the center speaker,
push the + or – Ctr/Rear Level button to match the volume
of the center channel to the front left and right channels.
3. When the test tone is heard from one of the surround
speakers, push the + or – Ctr/Rear Level button to match
the volume of that surround speaker to the front, left and
right channels.
4. Repeat step (3) when the test tone is heard from the other
surround speaker.
Please note that the 6-channel direct input mode has its own
level settings that are independent of the other modes.
Step 1
Step 2
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+
–
+
–
+
–
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
+
–
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CTR / REAR LEVEL
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
9
Page 9
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
VOLUME
VOLUME
–
+
–
+
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+–+–+–+
–
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Volume
Push Volume+ to raise the system volume or Volume– to lower the system volume.
10
11
BASS
BOOST
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+
–
+
–
+
–
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Bass Boost
The Bass Boost will increase the amount of low-frequency output.
10
Page 10
12
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+–+–+
–
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
+
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Center Channel
1. Push Center.
2. The word CENTER will be illuminated on the display.
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
–
+
–+–
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
+
CENTER
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
3. Push Level ▲ or Level ▼ to adjust
the center-channel volume.
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13
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
–
+–+–+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
+
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Balance
Push Left to increase the volume of the left channel in relation to the right channel.
Push Right to increase the volume of the right channel in relation to the left channel.
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+–+–+–+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Surround Channel
6-Channel Mode
1. Push Rear to choose left- or right-surround levels. The display will indicate which rear surround is selected.
2. Push Level ▲ or Level ▼ to adjust the surround-channel volume for that specific channel.
3. Push Rear again to choose the other surround channel. The display will indicate which rear surround is selected.
4. Push Level ▲ or Level ▼ to adjust the surround-channel volume for that specific channel.
Dolby Pro Logic Mode
1. Push Rear. The display will indicate which rear surround is selected.
2. Push Level ▲ or Level ▼ to adjust surround-channel volume.
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+–+–+–+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
CENTER
LEFT
BALANCE
CENTER
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Step 1
Step 2
14
12
Page 12
+
–
BASS
+
–
BASS
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
–
+–+–+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
+
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
+
–
TREBLE
+
–
TREBLE
POWER
INPUT
VOLUME
+–+–+–+
–
CTR/REAR
LEVEL
TREBLE BASS
BASS
BOOST
PRO LOGIC 6-CHANNEL STEREOHALL/CONCERT
DIGITAL DIRECT
CENTER
FRONT
LEFT
BALANCE
FRONT
RIGHT
REAR L/REAR R
ESC230 Surround Processor/Amplifier
6-CHANNEL DIGITAL DIRECT INPUTS
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
MUTE POWER
TEST
BASS
BOOST
INPUT
HALL/CON. 6-CH STEREO
PRO LOGIC
– VOLUME +
BASS
CENTER
TREBLE
REAR LEFT /
REAR
RIGHT
F/L
LEVEL UP
F/R
LEVEL UP
+
–
+
–
ESC230
TM
®
CTR / REAR LEVEL
Bass and Treble
Push Bass ▲ to increase the level of low frequencies.
Push Bass ▼ to decrease the level of low frequencies.
Push Treble ▲ to increase the level of low frequencies.
Push Treble ▼ to decrease the level of low frequencies.
15
13
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If you hear no sound at all:
• Make sure the ESC230
main unit is plugged into a
live electrical outlet and
that the power switch is on.
• Check connections from
the ESC230 main unit to
the TV, VCR, DVD player
and the outboard surround
processor.
• If using with a television
or outboard surround
processor, make sure that
the TV or the surround
processor is on and a
signal is present.
• If using with a VCR,
make sure the VCR is
playing a tape.
• If using a DVD player,
make sure that the DVD
is playing.
• If using the 6-channel
digital direct inputs, make
sure that the 6-channel
mode is selected and its
indicator is illuminated on
the display. There will be
no output if the product is
in any other mode.
• If using the conventional
right and left inputs 1 or
2, make sure that Dolby
Pro Logic, Hall, Concert or
Stereo mode is selected
and its indicator is
illuminated in the display.
There will be no output if
the product is in the 6channel mode. Also make
sure that the appropriate
input (1 or 2) is selected as
illuminated in the display.
• Check all connections
between the ESC230
main unit and each of
the speakers.
If one or more of the speakers
does not play:
• Check all connections
between the ESC230
main unit and each of
the speakers.
• Adjust the balance
controls from left to right
and front to rear.
If you have very little bass
output:
• Make sure the subwoofer
is connected properly to
the ESC230 main unit.
• Experiment with placement of the subwoofer.
Remember, place the
subwoofer in a corner
to get maximum bass
output from the system.
• Make sure Bass Boost
is on.
• Adjust Bass level.
If there is no sound coming
from the rear speakers or the
volume is very low:
• Check all connections
between ESC230 main unit
and each of the speakers.
• Adjust the front-rear
balance controls on the
ESC230 main unit.
• Make sure the TV show or
movie you are watching is
recorded in Dolby Surround.
If it is not, try the Concert
Hall or Stereo settings on
the ESC230 main unit.
When using the 6-channel
digital direct inputs, if there
is no sound coming from
some channels:
• Make sure that all 6
connectors are securely
connected on both the DVD
player/outboard processor
side and the ESC230 side.
• Make sure that the DVD
player/outboard processor’s
built-in decoder is correctly
configured to provide
output to all 5 satellites
and the subwoofer.
(Depending on the product
you own, you may have to
do this using that specific
product’s on-screen
display.) Make sure that the
satellites are set to Small
and the subwoofer is set
to On by checking the
settings of the DVD player
or outboard surround
processor.
Troubleshooting
Power Output 15 watts x 6 @ 0.1% THD
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 90 dBA
Input Impedance 20k ohms
Input Sensitivity 400 mV
System Frequency Response 35Hz to 20kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D) Main Unit: 2-11/16 x 13-1/2 x 9 inches
69 x 343 x 230mm
Satellites: 7-1/2 x 4-1/16 x 4-3/8 inches
190 x 103 x 111mm
Subwoofer: 17-3/4 x 7-3/4 x 13-7/8 inches
451 x 197 x 352mm
Specifications
14
Page 14
JBL Consumer Products
250 Crossways Park Drive, Woodbury, NY 11797
8500 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, CA 91329
(800) 336-4JBL (4525) www.jbl.com
©1999 JBL, Incorporated. JBL and Simply Cinema are registered trademarks of JBL, Incorporated.
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
*Trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. DTS is a registered trademark of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.
Part No. 4301-4096-0 A Harman International Company
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