JBL P81, P941 User Manual

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Page 1

JBL PERFORMANCE™SERIES

P81 P941

HIGH-PERFORMANCE IN-WALL LOUDSPEAKERS

OWNER’S GUIDE

Page 2

81/P941 IN-WALL

OUDSPEAKERS

OCUMENTATION

ONVENTIONS

3 Documentation Conventions

Introduction

4 4 Highlights 4 Product Registration

Unpacking

5 6 Loudspeaker Overview

6 Driver Complement 7 Filter Network

Input Panel

7 8 Installation Considerations

8 Loudspeaker Placement

Installation Instructions

9 11 Making Connections 12 Optimizing Performance

13 Loudspeaker Volume 14 Specifications

14 Dimensions 14 Obtaining Service 15 Index

This document contains general safety,

nstallation, and operation instructions

or the JBL

erformance

™

eries P81

S and P941 In-Wall Loudspeakers. It is important to read this document before attempting to use your loudspeakers.

ay particular attention to safety

P instructions.

WARNING

Calls attention to a procedure, practice,

ondition, or the like that, if not correctly

c performed or adhered to, could result in injury or death.

CAUTION

Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to or destruction of part or all of the product.

NOTE

Calls attention to information that is essential to highlight.

Page 3

NTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the JBL

erformance Series P81/P941 In-Wall

oudspeakers. Designed for discerning

L audiophiles, the P81 and P941 offer versatile, easily integrated in-wall loudspeakers that provide the superior,

ncolored sound that is the hallmark of

u JBL loudspeakers. The P81 and P941 reproduce realistic, accurate signals with minimal coloration and distortion, making them perfect complements to

BL Performance front speakers in

J multichannel setups. Proprietary transducers, sophisticated filter networks, and user-adjustable compensation controls allow the P81/P941 to achieve remarkable sound quality and performance befitting the most demanding home entertainment systems.

The P81 and P941 are also perfectly suited as front and surround speakers in complete in-wall setups, or as stereo pairs in secondary listening spaces, or for integration with flat-screen television home theater installations. Unlike freestanding loudspeakers, the P81 and P941 speakers occupy no space in living areas and will not detract from the décor of the listening room. They are easily mounted in either pre-existing or new construction projects.

A critical aspect of loudspeaker design, transducers convert electrical signals into audible sounds, profoundly affecting speaker performance. Combining superior form and function, the P81 and P941 transducers feature a distinctive design that allows for smoother frequency response. The cones are constructed with Organic Ceramic Composite cone material to reduce dis spiders are constructed

Nomex

blend with optimized geometry

tortion, while the

of a high-strength

for increased linearity. A two-way design, the P81 transducers

effectively cover a broad range of frequencies. A 7-1/2-inch (191mm) woofer delivers highly refined and dynamically authoritative low frequencies down to the very lowest octaves. Also, a 1-inch (25mm) titanium-dome tweeter repro

duces high frequencies well above audible levels, with wide dispersion for open, airy treble.

A three-way design, the P941, in addi

tion to its 9-inch (229mm) woofer and 1-inch (25mm) tweeter

, also features

a 3-1/2-inch (89mm) midrange, which

handles critical mid-band frequencies

ith natural tonal balance over a wide

perating range.

o An advanced midrange (P941 only)

motor structure includes two high-

rade neodymium magnets placed

t the center of the motor structure,

a inside the voice coil, for improved magnetic shielding. Inside the motor, a black-plated steel-shield cup facilitates

eat dissipation for higher power han-

h dling. An integrated aluminum fluxstabilization ring minimizes modulation inside the motor’s static gap flux field,

reatly reducing distortion. A copper ring

g inside the motor’s gap reduces distortion even further. Both rings are optimally sized and placed to maintain constant linear voice coil inductance with forward and backward motions.

The P81 has a high-order filter at

2.8kHz. In the P941, high-order filters at 300Hz and 2kHz optimize loudspeaker on- and off-axis response, helping to ensure smooth octave-to-octave balance and timbral accuracy. The P81 and P941 feature gold-plated binding posts that accommodate two connection methods, while separate HighFrequency Tilt, Low-Frequency Boundary Compensation, High-Frequency Level and Listener Axis controls compensate for less-than-ideal listening room acoustics and loudspeaker placement.

For more than 50 years, JBL has stood at the forefront of loudspeaker design. With extensive research and design facilities, the JBL Performance Series P81 and P941 loudspeakers benefit from cutting-edge tools such as a multichannel listening lab for double-blind listening tests; a laser interferometer for detailed driver analysis; real ane

choic chambers for precise tests and measurements; finite element analysis for advanced loudspeaker modeling; and a stereo lithography apparatus for design verification.

Adding to the proud lineage of JBL’s Performance Series loudspeakers, the P81 and P941 further advance JBL

’s reputation as the leading designer and manufacturer of high-quality, high-performance loudspeakers.

P81/P941 HIGHLIGHTS

n Exceptional accuracy n Proprietary 7-1/2-inch (191mm)/9-inch

229mm) Organic Ceramic Composite

( woofer

n Proprietary 3-1/2-inch (89mm)

rganic Ceramic Composite

O midrange (P941 only)

roprietary 1-inch (25mm) titanium-

n P

dome tweeter

n High output with low distortion n Gold-plated binding posts

igh-Frequency Level control

n H n High-Frequency Tilt control n Low-Frequency Boundary

Compensation control

n Listener Axis control n Advanced woofer and midrange

(P941 only) motor structure

n Large voice coils for wide dynamic

range without compression

n Wall-mounting frame which features

spring-loaded clamps to securely anchor loudspeaker into wall opening

n Optional rough-in bracket for stud-

mounting prior to drywall installation (not included)

PRODUCT REGISTRA

Please register the P81/P941 as soon as possible after purchase. To do so, register online at www.jbl.com. The product registration serves no warranty purposes. Retain the original, dated sales receipt as proof of warranty coverage.

TION

Page 4

NPACKING

Top Pad

Bottom Pad

Frame Alignment Tool

Paint Mask

Protective Cloth

Grille

Allen Keys/Spacer Shim

Fiberglass Insulation

Wall Template

Replacement Scrim Cloth

Figure 2: Packing Materials

igure 1: Unpacking the P81/P941

™

The P81 and P941 require special care

nd handling during unpacking. Pay

articular attention to the precautions

p that appear in this section and to other precautions that appear throughout this owner’s manual.

hen unpacking, save all packing

W materials for possible future shipping needs. Refer to the Obtaining Service section on page 14 for additional

nformation.

Figure 1: Unpacking the P81/P941

Figure 2: Packing Materials

To Unpack the P81 and P941:

1. Place the packing carton in the upright position and fully open the top flaps, as shown in Step 1 of Figure 1.

2. Without allowing the top flaps to close, move the outer packing carton into an inverted position, as shown in Step 2 of Figure 1.

3. Lift the packing carton off of the loudspeaker, as shown in Step 3 of Figure 1. Use caution to avoid damaging the loudspeaker or frame clamps. At this point, the loudspeaker will be upside-down.

4. Remove the bottom pad, and then remove the frame alignment tool and grille from the grille filler items are identified in Figure 2.

5. Set aside the wall template, paint mask, fiberglass insulation, spacer shim, replacement scrim cloth and Allen keys.

6. Invert speaker so it is in the upright position.

When the P81/P941 is in the upright

7. position, remove the top pad.

8. Leave the loudspeaker upright in the bottom pad until ready to install.

. These

Page 5

OUDSPEAKER OVERVIEW

™

£ ¢

∞

Figure 3: P81 Speaker (Front View)

on off

Low Frequency Boundary Compensation

High Frequency Level (dB)

Listener Axis

High Frequency Tilt

on axis

+1 0 –1

Figure 4: P941 Speaker (Front View)

on o

Low Frequency Boundary Compensation

High Frequency Level (dB)

istener Axis

igh Frequency Tilt

n axis

+1 0 –1

P81/P941 DRIVER COMPLEMENT

he numbers in Figure 3 correspond to

T the numbered items in this section.

1. Tweeter

1-inch (25mm) titanium dome

•

Underhung with copper-clad alu-

•

minum wire for low distortion Ferrofluid for high-power handling

•

with reduced compression

2. Woofer

7-1/2-inch (191mm)/9-inch (229mm)

•

cones constructed with Organic Ceramic Composite cone material for low distortion

rue pistonic operation for increased

•

freedom from coloration Symmetrical Field Geometry (SFG™)

•

design for low overall distortion Aluminum ring for flux stabilization

•

greatly reduces distortion at low frequencies

Butyl rubber surround for large, linear

•

excursion capabilities Carbon composite aluminum (CCA)

•

flatwire voice coil wound on a 1-1/2inch (38mm) fiberglass bobbin for low mass and higher power handling

Vented center pole for improved heat

•

dissipation and low compression

The numbers in Figure 3 correspond to the numbered items in the Driver Complement section.

Figure 3: P81 Speaker (Front View)

3. High-Frequency Level (dB) Control

rovides a shift in the output level of

P the tweeter or overall high-frequency response (active above approximately

2.5kHz). The options are –1dB, 0dB nd +1dB.

4. High-Frequency Tilt Control

Adds a ”tilt“ to the high-frequency

esponse. The tilt will become active

r above approximately 8kHz (depart from nominally flat response) and will increase to 3dB – 4dB at 20kHz. This will offer an improved high-frequency response for installations where the primary listening position is located significantly off the tweeter axis (for an effect almost like adding ”toe in“ towards the listening position). The added

highfrequency contour helps to offset perceived reduction of high-frequency response for off-axis listeners due to the increase in directivity of the system (tweeter beaming) above 8kHz.

5. Listener Axis Control

inverted speaker installations. Refer to

he Notes on page 9 and the Optimizing

erformance (page 12) section for addi-

P tional information.

6. Low-Frequency Boundary ompensation Control

Compensates for less-than-ideal speaker placement near adjacent walls or boundaries.

Select the “off” setting if the speaker

•

is mounted at least 4 feet away from adjacent walls or boundaries.

elect the “on” position if the

•

speaker is less than 4 feet from one (or possibly two) or more adjacent walls or boundaries. In the ”on“ position, system output is reduced below approximately 400Hz to offset the increased low-frequency support, due to the boundary.

NOTE: Refer to the Optimizing Performance section on page 12 for more information about the front-panel

controls. All loudspeakers sound best when the listener is positioned at optimal angles relative to the speaker placement. This is a fixed angle for most loudspeakers, but the P81 and P941 provide compensation for much greater placement flexibility. The listener axis control, used in conjunction with the placement

of the speaker, can obtain excellent results in a very wide range of circumstances. This control optimizes system response for installations in which the listening positions are lower than, higher than, or directly level with the tweeter. This switch will be active in the network transition regions between the woofer and tweeter (in the P81) and the midrange and tweeter (in the P941).

Select the “high” (up arrow) setting

•

if the speaker is mounted so that the listener is at tweeter level or above.

Select the “on axis” setting if the

•

listener position is located directly on axis with the tweeter level.

Select the “low” (down arrow) set-

•

ting if the speaker is mounted so that the listener is below tweeter level.

NOTE: In some circumstances, such as when the speaker is to be mounted high on the wall towards the ceiling, it may be desired to invert the speaker in order to place the tweeter axis closer to the listener’s ear level. The Listener Axis Control will also optimize these

The numbers in Figure 4 correspond to the

numbered items in the Driver Complement

section.

Figure 4: P941 Speaker (Front View)

7. Midrange (P941 Only)

3-1/2-inch (89mm) cone constructed

•

with Organic Ceramic Composite material

Die-cast basket to eliminate col-

•

oration from resonances True pistonic operation for increased

•

freedom from coloration

Page 6

Two high-grade neodymium magnets

P81

P941

Figure 5: Rear of P81/P941

•

laced inside the voice coils for opti-

al magnetic shielding

m Symmetrical Field Geometry (SFG™)

•

design for low overall distortion 1-1/2-inch (38mm) voice coil wound

•

on a fiberglass bobbin for high-power handling and low distortion

Copper cap stabilizes inductance and

•

controls flux modulation, dramatically reducing distortion

Optimized and shielded magnetic cir-

•

cuits to minimize harmonic distortion and prevent video monitor interference

FILTER NETWORK

Optimizes loudspeaker on- and off-axis response with a high-order filter at

2.8kHz for the P81, and high-order filters at 300Hz and 2kHz for the P941, helping to ensure smooth octave-tooctave balance and timbral accuracy. Gold-plated binding posts accommodate heavy speaker cables, while separate Low-Frequency Boundary Compensation, High-Frequency Level, High-Frequency Tilt and Listener Axis controls provide precise balance to compensate for less-than-ideal listening room acoustics and loudspeaker placement.

INPUT PANEL

umber 1 in Figure 5 corresponds to

N the numbered item below.

1. Input Connectors

Provide input connections from the associated power amplifier/receiver(s). One positive (+) gold-plated binding

ost and one negative (–) gold-plated

p binding post are available. Refer to the Making Connections section on page 11 for additional information.

Figure 5: Rear of P81 and P941

Page 7

Front Right

Front

Left

Left Surround

Right

Surround

Subwoofer

(optional)

Primary Listening Position

Couch

Figure 7:

Figure 6:

Two Channel Placement

Left

Channel

Right

Channel

Primary Listening Position

(Couch)

Front Right

Front

Left

Left Side Surround

Right

Side

Surround

Left

Back Surround

Right

Back Surround

Couch

6.1/7.1-Channel System

Loudspeaker fidelity depends on the f

•

Advanced JBL design features allow the P81 and P941 to achieve exceptional a placement and listening room acoustics have a significant impact on the performance of the P81 and P941.

•

LOUDSPEAKER PLACEMENT

The P81 and P941 are designed to offer excellent performance in any listening room or home theater system. Abide by the following placement suggestions for optimal results.

2-Channel or Front Left and Front Right in a Home Theater System

The bulleted items that begin below indicate important loudspeaker placement considerations for 2-channel or front left and right installations.

•

NSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

ollowing three factors:

Loudspeaker accuracy Loudspeaker placement Listening room acoustics

coustical precision. However, proper

AUTION:

The P81 and P941 should be installed by a professional.

Installers must adhere to local building codes to ensure a proper installation. JBL is not responsible for any possible damages caused by improper installation.

The speakers should be equidistant from the primary listening position and placed at least 4 feet away from the side walls.

It is recommended that the angle formed between the speakers and the listening area be between 45° and 60.° For example, if the speakers are 8 feet apart, the listening position should be 8 to 12 feet from each

. Refer to Figure 6.

speaker When used as part of a home theater

system, excellent results can also be obtained when the speakers must be placed further apart due to a screen.

Figure 6: 2-Channel Placement

Surround Channels in a Home Theater System

The bulleted items that begin below indicate important loudspeaker placement considerations for surround channel installations for home theaters.

When used as part of a 5.1-channel

•

music or home theater system, the surround speakers should be placed slightly behind the primary listening position. Refer to Figure 7.

If there are several rows of seating,

•

place the speakers perpendicular to, or slightly behind, the last row of seating.

When used as part of a 6.1/7.1-

•

channel music or home theater system, place the side speakers at the sides of the main listening position.

If there are several rows of seating,

•

place the speakers perpendicular to the middle row of seating.

Figure 8: Surround Channels

6.1/7.1-Channel System

The back surround speakers should

•

be placed along the rear wall facing the front of the room. Each side surround speaker should be about one-third of the way forward of the rear wall, as shown in Figure 8.

Figure 7: Surround Channels (5.1-Channel System)

Page 8

Baffle

Mounting Frame

Carpenter's Level

Utility Knife

Figure 10: Cut wall opening

Place Woofer a

t 1/3 the height of Stud Bay

1/3 the height of Stud Bay (measured from the Fire Block)

Fire Block

1/3 of Height

igure 11: Ideal Height of Woofer

At least

1-inch

At least

1-inch

Figure 9: Use wall template

NSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

For installations in new construction

rojects, use the JBL P81/P941 In-Wall

ough-In Bracket, which should be

R installed by a professional. Refer to the JBL P81/P941 In-Wall Rough-In Bracket Installation Instructions for more infor-

ation.

m The JBL P81 and P941 in-wall speakers

were designed to be easily installed into existing walls. It is recommended

hat they be professionally installed.

t The following tools are required for installation:

4) Allen-head screws (included)

(

•

5/32-inch Allen key (included)

•

1/16-inch Allen key (included)

•

cardboard installation template

•

(included) pencil

•

Phillips-head screwdriver

•

measuring tape

•

utility knife

•

carpenter’s level

•

flat-blade screwdriver

•

stud finder

•

To Install the P81/P941:

1. Locate the wall studs.

2. Use the supplied template to trace an outline to mark the desired location to mount the speaker system. Use caution to cut the hole approximately centered between wall studs, allowing at least 1 inch between the cutout and wall studs, as shown in Figure 9. Use a carpenter’s level to ensure a level measurement.

NOTES:

he height of the woofer within the

•

stud bay relative to the entire height of the bay is critical because of standing waves within the cavity.

Before installation, determine the

•

height of the cavity. (There might be a fire block that makes it shorter than the entire height from the floor to the

eiling.) Avoid placing the woofer at

c the very top or bottom of the stud bay, as this would cause a serious cancellation of low frequency output.

The ideal location for the woofer

•

(whether the speaker is mounted upright or inverted) is at the one-third distance point, as shown in example

of Figure 10. If that is not feasible,

A then two-fifths, or one-fifth of the height are the next best alternatives. The least desirable position to place the woofer is at one-half or onefourth of the height. If a fire block is completely dividing the bay, the measurement would be from the fire block – not the floor or ceiling – as shown in example B of Figure 10. Example C shows an inverted speaker placement.

3. With a utility knife, cut the wall pening, as shown in Figure 11.

Use caution not to cut into any

•

electrical wiring or plumbing. Run the wiring from your system to the

ole. (Be sure to comply with local

iring codes.)

w The measurements of the open-

•

ing(s) required to mount the JBL

n-wall frames are listed below:

i JBL P81

•

Width: 10-1/2 inches (267mm) Height: 14-7/8 inches (378mm)

JBL P941

•

Width: 12-1/2 inches (318mm) Height: 19-1/8 inches (486mm)

4. The speakers are shipped with the

baffle assembly attached to the mounting frame at its four corners. Unscrew the four screws and carefully lift the baffle assembly out of the mounting frame, as shown in Figure 12.

Figure 9: Use W

all T

emplate

Figure 10: Ideal Height of Woofer

Figure 11: Cut Wall Opening

Figure 12: Remove Baffle From Mounting Frame

5. (Optional) It is recommended that the

frame be painted before it is mounted. For instructions on painting the frame and grille, refer to page 12.

6. The mounting frame has spring-

loaded clamps around its perimeter, which are designed to fold shut as the mounting frame is placed into the wall opening and spring open once inside, anchoring the mounting frame in the wall opening. See Figures 13 and 14. Loosen all clamp screws until the clamps are fully extended.

Page 9

7. Be sure to run the speaker wire in

igure 17: 

Tighten Allen screws with Allen key wrench

Mounting Frame

Clamp

Frame Alignment T

o ol

Figure 15: Frame Alignment Tool

lamp

Screw

Insert frame into

wall opening

Wall

Figure 14: Clamp Mechanism

Note how the clamp springs open

CLAMP

igure 13: Clamp Closeup

Figure 16: Install the Insulation and Baffle

Baffle

Assembly

Thread Speaker Wires

Fiberglass Insulation

Allen Head

Screws

hrough the rear opening before

einstalling the baffle assembly.

8. Insert the mounting frame into the cutout until the clamps snap into

lace.

14. Make speaker wire connections. efer to the Making Connections

ection on page 11 for instructions.

15. Slide the baffle into place in the

mounting frame.

Figure 13: Clamp Close-Up

Figure 15: Frame Alignment Tool

9. Insert the frame alignment tool horizontally into the center of the frame. This tool functions as a frame spreader, while the clamps are being tightened, as shown in Figure 15.

10. Starting from the lower right corner and working in a diagonal torque sequence, use a power screwdriver to tighten each of the clamp screws (only until almost snug). If needed, adjust the mounting frame so it is level and centered in the cutout.

11. Perform a final torque sequence. Hand-tighten frame screws and check each screw at least twice to make sure they are fully tightened to prevent rattles.

12. Remove the frame alignment tool. Place the included fiberglass insula-

13. tion in the back of the mounting frame, as shown in Figure 16. Cut an “x” into the insulation and thread the wire(s) through.

Figure 17: Tighten Allen Screws With Allen Key Wrench

Be sure that the speaker wires

NOTE:

are clear of the woofer basket and not too close to the woofer cone. Make sure the wires are not pinched between the baffle and the mounting frame. Refer to Figure 16.

16. Use the spacer shim to center the baffle inside of the frame while securing with four 10-32 x 2-1/4-inch screws. Loosely tighten the screws while using the spacer on the bottom side. Remove spacer and gauge the other three sides before starting final torque sequence. Proper centering of the baffle is critical to the grille fitting properly.

Use the included 5/32-inch Allen key

17. to tighten until snug, as shown in Figure 17.

Figure 14: Clamp Mechanism

Figure 16: Install the Insulation and Baffle

Page 10

nsert Speaker Wire

Te rminal Connectors

Insert

Banana Plug

ere if desired

xposed Binding Post (connector removed)

inding

Post

Figure 18: Making Connections

MAKING CONNECTIONS

The P81 and P941 feature gold-plated

inding posts that allow for two meth-

ds of connecting the speaker wires.

CAUTION: Never make or break connections unless all system components are powered off.

Before making connections, note the

ollowing:

Make all connections observing the

•

proper polarity, positive-to-positive (+) and negative-to-negative (–). Connec-

ions that do not observe the proper

t polarity will cause poor stereo imaging and diminished bass response. With the advent of multichannel surround systems, maintaining proper polarity remains equally important to preserve the correct ambience and directionality of the program material.

Use high-quality loudspeaker cable

•

with a maximum total loop resistance of 0.07 ohms or less (for each wire run). Refer to the table below to determine the appropriate maximum wire gauge.

All in-wall speaker wires must be UL

•

listed for use in in-wall applications.

CAUTION: Be sure to comply with local wiring codes. JBL is not responsible for any damage or injuries that may result from faulty wiring.

Maximum Wire Gauge

Gauge Length Length (AWG) (Feet) (Meters)

6 7 69 21 8 58 18

9 43 13 10 34 10 11 12 22 7 13 14 14 4 15 11 3 16 17 7 2 18 5 2

NOTE: High loop resistances that exceed 0.07 ohms (for each wire run) will cause the filter network to misterminate, resulting in considerable degradation of sound quality.

87 27

17 5

5. Repeat Steps 1 to 4 to connect the econd P81 or P941 to a separate

mplifier/receiver output channel.

An alternative connection method, instead of those described in Steps 1 to

, is to attach standard banana plugs to

he speaker wires and plug them into

t the ends of the speaker connectors.

The hole in the center of each collar is

ntended for use with banana-type con-

i nectors. To comply with European CE certification, these holes are blocked with plastic inserts at the point of

anufacture. The use of banana-type

Figure 18: Making Connections

connectors requires the removal of the inserts. Do not remove these inserts if you are using the product

Contact an authorized JBL dealer for

•

information about the suitability of power amplifier/receiver components before connecting the P81 or P941 to the associated power amplifier/ receiver.

Review the owner’s manuals for asso-

•

in an area covered by the European CE certification.

If using a back box or if limited by installation depth, the banana plugs can also be inserted through the sides of the binding posts. See Figure 18.

ciated audio components to determine their connection procedures.

Connections are made between one pair of P81 or P941 input connectors and one amplifier/receiver output channel, as described below.

To Make Connections:

1. Loosen the terminal connectors by hand (counterclockwise) on the speakers’ positive (+) and negative (–) binding posts until the holes in their threaded posts are visible.

Insert the stripped ends of the

2. wires through the holes, as shown in Figure 18.

3. Retighten the connectors by hand (clockwise) to secure the wire. Be

sure no stray strands of wire from one binding post touch the other binding post, as this will short-out the signal and may damage the amplifier.

4. In the manner described above, con-

nect one pair of loudspeaker wires to the P81 or P941 input connectors. Then connect the same pair of loudspeaker wires to the desired amplifier/ receiver output channel.

Page 11

OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE

Figure 19: Listener Axis Control Upright Speaker Placement

Tweeter

Woofer

Set Listener Axis Switch to “High” if listening position is at tweeter level or above.

Set Listener Axis Switch to “Low” if listening position is below tweeter level.

Set Listener Axis Switch to “High” if listening position is below tweeter.

Set Listener Axis Switch to “Low” if listening position is at tweeter level or above.

Inverted Speaker Placement (woofer is above tweeter)

Woofer

Set Listener Axis Switch to “on axis” if listening position is directly at tweeter level.

Tweeter

Woofer

Tweeter

Set Listener Axis Switch to “on axis” if listening position is directly at tweeter level.

Wall

It is highly recommended that you

ake front-panel control adjustments

efore installing the grille. Experiment

b with settings and carefully listen to ensure that the proper adjustments have been made.

o optimize the P81 and P941 for best

T performance:

1. Refer to the Loudspeaker Placement ection on page 8 for information

s about loudspeaker installation.

2. Set the High-Frequency Level control

to 0 (different listening rooms may require other High-Frequency Level control settings).

3. Set the Low-Frequency Boundary

Compensation control to the appropriate position.

Select the “off” setting if the speak-

•

er is mounted at least 4 feet away from adjacent walls or boundaries.

Select the “on” setting if the speak-

•

er is mounted close to one (or possibly two) or more adjacent walls or boundaries. In the “on” position, system output is reduced below approximately 400Hz to offset the increased low-frequency support due to the boundary.

4. Begin playback of a familiar music or

film source.

5. Listen from the primary listening osition, increasing volume to a

omfortable level.

6. Adjust the High-Frequency Level

con-

trol on each P81 or P941 to change

igh-frequency balance and timbre.

7. Adjust the Listener Axis control

depending on the position of the primary listening location. Refer to

igure 19.

Select the “high” (up arrow) setting

•

if the speaker is mounted so that the listener is above the tweeter level.

Select the “on axis” setting if the

•

listener location is directly on axis. Select the “low” (down arrow) set-

•

ting if the speaker is mounted so that the listener is significantly below the tweeter.

When the loudspeaker has been mounted upside-down, (with the woofer higher than the tweeter), refer to Figure 19. The listener axis control settings function in the opposite manner as normal operation:

Select the “low” setting if the

•

speaker is mounted so that the listener is at tweeter level or above.

Select the “high” setting if the

•

speaker is mounted so that the listener is below the tweeter.

8. Set the High-Frequency Tilt switch to +” if your listening position is far off

“

he tweeter axis; otherwise, leave it

t at “0.”

9. Repeat these steps to optimize per-

ormance of the second P81 or P941.

NOTE: For best results, set the HighFrequency Level, High-Frequency Tilt, and the Listener Axis controls to the

ame positions on both loudspeakers.

Painting the Frame

Proper surface preparation is critical for best results. Use spray, roller (smooth), or a pad to apply the paint. Clean and prime the frame surface prior to painting.

1. Place frame on a protected work

surface.

2. Install plastic paint mask (included)

into the frame.

3. Clean front edges of frame face by

gently rubbing with a soft rag dampened with rubbing alcohol.

4. Apply one coat of white or neutral

color water-based primer and let dry.

5. Apply one to two coats of paint for

desired finish.

Figure 19: Listener Axis Control Upright Speaker Placement

Page 12

Grille

1/16-inch Allen key

Frame

Painting the Grille

or best results, it is recommended

F that the grille be painted with a spray applicator to enable the paint to be evenly applied to the inside edges of

he grille’s perforations.

t The following items are required to

paint the grille:

the grille (included)

•

replacement scrim cloth (included)

•

pray paint

•

paint thinner (and cloth)

•

ubbing alcohol (and cloth)

•

white or neutral color water-based

•

primer masking tape

•

spray adhesive

•

CAUTION: The grille must be painted before it is attached to the frame.

To Paint the Grille:

1. Remove the grille from the grille filler.

2. Remove the scrim cloth on the inside surface of the grille. If necesssary, slightly peel up the lower inside edges of the black felt strips to remove the scrim.

3. Inspect the inside surface of the grille to ensure that there are no remnants of the scrim cloth. If necessary, remove any remnants by rub bing with a cloth dampened with paint thinner.

4. Clean the front grille surface with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.

Apply masking tape over the black

5. felt strips around the grille perimeter to shield them from paint. Be sure to mask only the felt and not the outer metal edges of the grille, so that they will be painted.

6. Apply one coat of the primer and let it dry.

7. Thin the paint before application.

8. Apply one to two coats of spray paint. Use a varied spraying angle when spraying, to ensure paint is applied to the inside edges of the grille perforations.

After the paint is dried, install the replacement scrim cloth, if desired.

To Attach the Replacement Scrim Cloth:

. Place the grille face down on a soft

surface.

2. If paint thinner was used to remove crim remnants, apply a light coating

s of a spray adhesive to the inside grille surface. Avoid spraying adhesive onto the felt strips. If too much adhesive is used, it could wick into

he cloth and degrade the sound.

3. Place the replacement scrim cloth

in the grille with the cardboard side facing upward (so that the cardboard is not visible through the front of the grille).

4. Tuck the outer edges of the scrim

cloth cardboard frame under the black felt strips and gently smooth the scrim cloth over the grille surface to remove any wrinkles.

Figure 20: Removing the Grille

AUTION:

grille out using the Allen key (or any other object) as a pry bar against the plastic frame.This will cause damage to the frame and mar the paint.

o not attempt to pry the

Speaker Frame Removal

Attaching the Grille to the Frame

To Attach the Grille:

1. Line the grille up to the frame and

press the grille in only partially at first.

2. Push gently at multiple points around

the outer edges to slowly ease it into position.

NOTE: Configure the four front-panel

controls and experiment until optimal results are achieved, before installing the grille.

Grille Removal

To Remove the Grille:

Insert the small end of the included

1/16-inch Allen key into one of the metal mesh holes in the top corner of the grille, as shown in Figure 20.

2. With the end of the Allen key in the

grille hole approximately 1/8 inch, with thumb and forefinger close to the grille, pull up on the Allen key to wedge it into the grille hole.

3. Gently pull the Allen key to partially

pop out the corner of the grille.

4. Repeat Steps 1 to 3 for the other top

corner. Apply Steps 1 to 4 for the bottom

corners.

6. When all corners are partially

popped out, the grille can easily be removed.

To remove the speaker frame from wall opening:

1. Fully unscrew all of the clamps around the speaker housing. The clamp screws have an acorn nut attached on their end to prevent accidental disassembly.

2. Move the speaker housing away from the wall enough to wedge your hand behind and pinch a clamp shut.

3. While the clamp is shut, work the speaker housing forward enough to catch the shut clamp in the wall opening.

ork around the perimeter

4. closing each clamp and then slowly pull the speaker housing from the wall.

, carefully

LOUDSPEAKER VOLUME LEVELS

High-order filters include steep cut-offs to reduce potential damage from “outof-band” frequencies. Combined with carefully selected transducers and fil ter network components, this approach helps the P81/P941 to maintain its performance under extreme operating conditions.

However, all loudspeakers have limits when it comes to continuous playback. To extend these limits, avoid playback at volume levels that distort or strain sound.

Page 13

81/P941 SPECIFICATIONS

P81 P941

oofer:

-1/2 inches (190.5mm) 9 inches (228.6mm)

Midrange: N/A 3-1/2 inches (89mm) Tweeter: 1 inch (25.4mm) 1 inch (25.4mm) System Frequency 40Hz – 20kHz 32Hz – 20kHz

Response (±3dB):

ensitivity:

7dB 89dB

Recommended 15 to 150 Watts 15 to 200 Watts Amplifier Power Range:

ominal Impedance:

Ohms 8 Ohms

Crossover Frequency(ies): 2.8kHz, 24dB/octave 300Hz, 2kHz, 24dB/octave Width: 13 inches (330mm) 14-7/8 inches (377.8mm) Height: 17-7/8 inches (454mm) 22-1/8 inches (562mm) Depth: 3-1/2 inches (89mm) 3-1/2 inches (89mm) Wall Cutout Width: 10-1/2 inches (266.7mm) 12-1/2 inches (317.5mm) Wall Cutout Height: 14-7/8 inches (377.8mm) 19-1/8 inches (485.8mm)

All features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

OBTAINING SERVICE

Before returning a product for warranty or non-warranty service, contact JBL Customer Support to determine the extent of the problem and to obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number. No products will be accepted without an RA number issued by JBL.

If a product must be returned for repair, JBL will assume no responsibility for the product during shipment from the customer to JBL or its authorized service station, whether the product is or is not covered under warranty

All Returns Must Be:

• well-packaged using the original packing materials (if possible)

properly insured and consigned

•

• pre-paid to a reliable shipping agent

To Contact Customer Support:

Call 516.255.4JBL or visit www.jbl.com.

JBL is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated. Nomex is a registered trademark of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company.

Page 14

NDEX

2-Channel Installations 8

5.1-Channel Installations 8

6.1-/7.1-Channel Installations 8 bout the P81/P941 4

ighlights 4

H Product Registration 4

Unpacking 5 Allen Key 5, 9, 10, 13 Aluminum Ring 4, 6

mplifier Power Range

Recommended 14 Baffle Assembly 9, 10 Baffle, Centering of 10 Banana Plugs 11 Binding Post 4, 7, 11 Butyl Rubber Surround 6 Carbon Composite Aluminum (CCA) 6 Caution 3, 8, 11, 13 Clamps 10, 13 Compression 4, 6 Cones 4, 6 Connections 4

Input 7

Making 11 Connectors 11 Depth 14 Distortion, Reducing 4, 6 Documentation Conventions 3 Dome (see Cones) Driver Complement 6–7 Dynamic Range 4 Ferrofluid 6 Fiberglass Bobbin 6, 7 Fiberglass Insulation 5, 10 Filter Network 7, 11 Filters 4, 7 Fire Block 4 Flux-Stabilization Ring 4, 6 Frame Alignment Tool 5, 10 Grille 13 Grille Installation 13 Grille Removal 13 Heat Dissipation 4, 6 Height 9, 14 High-Frequency Level 4, 6, 12 High-Frequency T

ilt 4, 6, 12 Highlights 4 Home Theater 4, 8

Ideal Height of Woofer 9 In-Wall Placement 9 Input Panel 7

nstallation Considerations 8

nstallation Instructions 9–10

I Inverted Speaker 9, 12 Listener Axis 4, 6, 7, 12 Listening Room 8, 12 Loudspeaker Cable 11

oudspeaker Overview 6

L Loudspeaker Placement 8, 9, 12 Loudspeaker Volume Levels 13 Low-Frequency Boundary

Compensation 4, 6, 12 Magnetic Shielding 4 Making Connections 11 Maximum Wire Gauge 11 Midrange 4, 6–7, 14 Mounting Frame 9–10 Neodymium Magnets 4, 6–7 Nomex Spiders 4 Nominal Impedance 14 Obtaining Service 14 On-Axis Response 4, 6, 12 Optimizing Performance 12 Organic Ceramic Composite

Cone Material 4, 6 Packing Carton 5, 14 Packing Materials 5, 14 Paint Mask 5, 13 Painting the Frame 12 Painting the Grille 13 Polarity 11 Primary Listening Position 8, 12 Product Registration 4 Rear Speakers 8 Room Placement 8 Rough-In Bracket 4, 9 Scrim Cloth 5, 13

Sensitivity 14 Shipping 5, 14 Spacer Shim 5, 10

peaker Frame Removal 13

peaker Wire 10, 11

S Specifications 14 Spider 4 Steel-Shield Cup 4 Stereo Imaging 11

tud Bay 9

S Surround Channels 8 Symmetrical Field Geometry (SFG Terminal Connectors 7, 11 Timbre 4, 12 Titanium Domes 4, 6 Transducers 4, 6 Tweeter 4, 6, 12, 14 UL Listed 11 Unpacking 5 Vented Center Pole 6 Voice Coil 4, 6–7 Volume Levels 12, 13 Wall Cutout Height 9, 14 Wall Cutout Width 9, 14 Wall Openings 9 Wall Studs 9 Wall Template 5, 9 Web Site 14 Width 13, 14 Wire Connections 11 Wire Gauge 11 Wire Resistance 11 Wiring Codes 11 W

oofer 4, 6, 14

Woofer Height 9

™

) 6, 7

Page 15

JBL Consumer Products

A Harman International Company

250 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, New York 11797 USA

.jbl.com

www

2005 Harman International Industries,

Part No. 355087-001 2/05