JBL S800 User Manual

SYNTHESIS

S800
POWER
AMPLIFIER

USER’S
MANUAL

TABLE
OF
CONTENTS

SECTION ______________________________________________________PAGE

1.0 Precautions _______________________________________________________4

1.1 Important Safeguards for Audio Products ______________________________4-7

2.0 Introduction and Features of the S800 _________________________________8-9

3.0 Operation and Controls______________________________________________10

3.1 S800 _________________________________________________________10-12

4.0 Connecting Your Synthesis System ____________________________________13

4.1 JBL Synthesis One – Suggested Rack Mounting Order _____________________14

4.2 JBL Synthesis One – Control Wiring Diagram ____________________________15

4.3 JBL Synthesis One – Interconnection Diagram ___________________________16

4.4 JBL Synthesis Two & Three – Suggested Rack Mounting Order ______________17

4.5 JBL Synthesis Two & Three – Control Wiring Diagram _____________________18

4.6 JBL Synthesis Two & Three – Interconnection Diagram_____________________19

5.0 Installing the S800 _________________________________________________20

6.0 Troubleshooting ___________________________________________________21

7.0 Specifications _____________________________________________________22

8.0 Synthesis Limited Warranty __________________________________________23

JBL Synthesis S800 Power Amplifier
User's Manual
©2000 JBL

JBL and Synthesis are registered trademarks of JBL Incorporated.
All Rights Reserved

JBL Synthesis
8500 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, CA 91329
250 Crossways Park Drive, Woodbury, NY 11797
800-336-4JBL

Printed on Recycled Paper
Part Number: S800OM6/00

A Harman International Company

3

1.1 Important Safeguards
For Audio Products

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY ALL THE
FOLLOWING IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
THAT ARE APPLICABLE TO YOUR EQUIPMENT

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. Water and Moisture – The product should not
be used near water – for example, near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.

6. Carts and Stands – The product should be used
only if a cart or stand is recommended by the
manufacturer.

6a. 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.

7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting – The product should
be mounted on a wall or ceiling only when and as
recommended by the manufacturer.

8. Ventilation – The product should be situated so
that its location or position does not interfere with
its proper ventilation. For example, the product
should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or
similar surface that may block the ventilation
openings; or, placed in a built-in installation,
such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede
the flow of air through the ventilation openings.

9. Heat – The product should be situated away from
heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other products that produce heat. If placed
near an amplifier, check with the manufacturer for
applicability.

10. Power Sources – The product should be
con-nected to a power supply only of the type
described in the operating instructions or as
marked on the product.

11. Grounding or Polarization – Precautions
should be taken so that the grounding or polarization
means of a product is not defeated.

12. 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.

13. Cleaning – The product should be cleaned only
as recommended by the manufacturer.

14. Power Lines – An outdoor antenna should be
located away from power lines.

15. Nonuse Periods – The power cord of the product
should be unplugged from the outlet when left
unused for a long period of time.

16. Object and Liquid Entry – Care should be taken
so that the objects do not fall and liquids are not
spilled into the enclosure through the openings.

The lighting flash with arrowhead
symbol, within an equilateral trian­gle, is intended to alert the user to
the presence of uninsulated ”dan-

gerous 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 unit..

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO

USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONAL.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THIS (POLAR­IZED) PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUT­LET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT
BLADE EXPOSURE.
ATTENTION: POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES NE PAS
UTILISER AVEC UN PROLONGATEUR. UNE PRISE DE COURANTOUUNE
AUTRE SORTIE DE COURANT SAUF SI LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE
INSEREES AFOND SANS EN LAISSER AUCUNE PARTIE A DECOUVERT.

4

1.0

PRECAUTIONS

1.0

PRECAUTIONS

1.0

5

PRECAUTIONS

17. Outdoor Antenna Grounding – If an outside
antenna is connected to the receiver, be sure
the antenna 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).

18. Damage Requiring Service – The product
should be serviced by qualified service per­sonnel when:

a. The power supply or the plug has been

damaged; or

b. Objects have fallen on, or liquid has

been spilled into, the product; or

c. The product has been exposed to rain; or

d. The product does not appear to operate

normally or exhibits a marked change
in performance; or

e. The product has been dropped, or

the enclosure damaged.

19. Servicing – The user should not attempt to
service the product beyond that described
in the operating instructions. All other
servicing should be referred to qualified
service personnel.

Note to CATV system installer:

This reminder is provided to call the CATV
system installer’s attention to Article 820-22
of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper
grounding and, in particular, specifies that
the cable ground shall be connected to the
grounding system of the building, as close
to the point of cable entry as practical.

ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE

ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)

Figure-1
Example of Antenna Grounding

as per National Electrical Code

Français

Instructions de Sûreté Importantes

Gardex ces instructions pour réference future.
Observez toutes les instructions et tous les avertissements marqués sur l’appareil.
Branchez uniguements sur un réseau de tension indiquée. Consultez le manuel

d’instruction du fabriquant pour les spécifications de courant. N’oubliez pas que
différentes tensions peuvent nécessiter l’utilisation de cables et/ou de fiches
deconnexion différents.

N’installez pas l’appareil en un compartiment non-aéré ou directement au-dessus
d’équipements générateurs de chaleur, tels qu’amplificateurs de courants, etc. Ne
dépassez pas la température ambiante maximale de fonctionnement indiquée
dans les spécifications du produit.

Des fentes et ouvertures sont prévues dans le boîtier pour l’aération; Pour assur­er le bon fonctionnement et pour prévenir l’échauffement, ces ouvertures ne
doivent pas être couvertes ou bloquées. N’insérez pas d’objets dans les fentes
d’aération. Empêchez tout liquide de se répandre sur l’appareil.

Ce produit est muni d’une fiche à trois fils pour la mise à terreee. Ceci est une
mesure de sécurité et ne doit pas être contrariée.

Ne connectez jamais d’amplificateurs audio directement aux connecteurs de l’appareil.
Pour empêcher les chocs électriques et le danger d’incendie, évitez d’exposer

l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidté, et ne le mettez pas en marche en un endroit
où il serait exposé aux éclaboussures d’eau.

N’essayez pas de faire fonctionner l’appareil s’il est tombé à terre, a été endom­mangé, exposé à un liquide, ou si vous observez des différences nettes dans son
fonctionnement, indiquant la nécessité de réparations.

Cet appareil ne doit être ouvert que par un personnel de service qualifié. En enl­evant les couvercles vous vous exposez àdes tensions électriques dangereuses.

Ce triangle, sur votre appaeil vous avertit de la présence de ten­sion dangereuse, non-isolée à l’intérieur du boîtier…une tension
suffisante pour représenter un danger d’electrocution.

Ce triangle sur sur votre appareil vous invite de suivre d’impor­tantes instructions d’utillisation et d’entretien dans la documen­tation livrée avec le produit.

Español

Instrucciones importantes de sequirdad

Guarde esta instrucciones para uso posterior.
Utilice siempre el voltaje correcto. Diríjase a las instrucciones de operación del

fabricante para obtener las especificaciones de potencia. Esté al tanto de que
voltajes de operación distintos requieren el uso de cable y/o enchufes distintos.

No instale esta unidad en un estante sin vntilación, ni tampoco directamente
encima de equipose que generen calor tales como amplificadores de potencia.
Fíjese en las temperaturas ambientales máximas de operación que se mencionan
en las especificaciones del producto.

Las aperturas y ranuras del chasis sirven para proveer la ventilación necesaria para
operar la unidad con sequridad y para prevenir sobrecalentamiento, y por lo tanto
no pueden ser obstruidas o cubiertas. No introcuzca objetos de ningún tip a través
de las ranuras de ventilación, y nunca deje caer ningún líquido sobre la unidad.

Este producto está equipado con un enchufe de 3 clavijas con conexión a ierra.
Este es un elemento de seguridad que no debe ser eliminado.

Nunca conecte ningùn tipo de salida de amplificadores de sonido directamente a
los conectores de la unidad.

Para prevenir descargas eléctricas o incendios, mantenga la unidad alejada de la
lluvia, humedad o cualquier lugar en el que pueda entrar en contacto con ague.

No trate de hacer funcionar la unidad si se ha caído, está dañada, ha entrado en
contacto con lítuidos, o si nota cualquir cambio brusco en su funcionamiento
que indique la necesidad de hacerle un servicio de mantenimiento.

Esta unidad deberá ser abierta únicamente por personal calificado. Si usted quita
las coberturas se expondrá a voltajes peligrosos.

Este triángulo que apaece en su componente le advierte sobre la
existencia dentro del chasis de voltajes peligrosos sin ais­lantes…voltajes que son lo suficientemente grandes como para
causar electrocución.

Este triángulo que aparece en su componente lo alerta sobre las
instrucciones de operación y mantenimiento importantes que
están en los materiales de lectura que se incluyen.

Italiano

Importanti norme di sicurezza

Conservare le presenti norme per l’utilizzo futuro.
Osservare tutte le istruzioni e le avvertenze apposte sull’unita.
Utilizzare esclusivamente con la tensione di rete corretta. Consultare le istruzioni

operative fornite dal fabbricante per i dati riguardanti la tensione e l’assorbimento
di corrente. Potrebbe essere necessario l’uso di cavi di rete e/o di spine diverse a
seconda della tensione utilizzata.

Non installare l’unità in uno scaffale privo di ventilazione oppure direttamente sopra
una fonte di calore, come, ad esempio, un amplificatore. Non superare la temper­atura ambientale massima di funzionamento riportata nei dati tecnici del prodotto.

Le fessure e le altre aperture nella scatola servono alla ventilazione. Per un fun­zionamento affidabile, e per evitare un eventuale surriscaldamento, queste aper­ture non vanno ostruite o coperte in nessun modo. Evitare in tutti i casi di inserire
oggetti di qualsiasi genere attraverso le fessure di ventilazione. Non versare mai
del liquido di nessun tipo sull’unità.

QUesto pordotto viene fornito con una spina a 3 fili con massa. Tale dispositivo
di sicurezza non va leiminato.

Evitare sempre di collegare le uscite dell’amplificatore auio direttamente ai con­nettori dell’unità.

Per prevenire il pericolo di folgorazione e di incendio non esporre l’unità alla
pioggia o ad un’umidtà eccessiva; evitare di adoperare l’unità dove potrebbe
entrare in contatto con acqua.

Evitare di adoperare l’unità se la stessa è stata urtata violentemente, se ha subito
un danno, se è stata esposta ad un liquido o in caso di un evidente cambiamento
dell prestazioni che indichi la necessità di un intervento di assistenza tecnica.

Ogni intervnto sull’unità va esqguito esclusivamente da personale qualificato. La
rimozione della copertura comporta l’esposizione al pericolo di folgorazione.

ll present triangolo impresso sul componente avverte della pre­senza di tensioni pericolose non isolate all’interno della copertu­ra…tali tensioni rappresentano un pericolo di folgorazione

ll presente triangolo imprsso sul componente avverte l’utente
della presenza nella documentazione allegata di importanti
istruzioni relative al funzionament ed alla manutenzione.

Deutsch

Wichtige Sicherheitsanweisungen

Heben Sie sich diese Sicherheitsanweisungen auch für später auf.
Befolgen Sie alle auf der Vorrichtung stehenden Anweisungen und Warnungen.
Immer nur mit der richtigen Spannung verwenden! Die Gebrauchsanweisungen

des Herstellers informieren Sie über die elektrischen Anforderungen. Vergessen
Sie nicht daß bei vershiedenen Betrievsspannungen ggf. auch verschiedene
Leitungskabel und/oder Verbindungsstacker zu verwenden sind.

Stellen Sie die Vorrightung nicht in ein unbelüftetes Getell oder unmittelbar über
wärmeerzeugende Geräte wie z.B. Tonverstärker. Halten Sie die in den Produkt­spezifikationen angegebene maximale Umgebungstemperatur bei Betrieb ein.

Schlitze und Öffnungen im GehUause dienen der Belüfung; um verläßlichen
Betrieb sicherzustellen und Überheizen zu vermeiden dürfen diese Öffnungen
nich verstopft oder abgedeckt werden. Stecken Sie nie irgend einen Gegenstand
durch die Belüftungsschlitze. Vergießen Sie keine Flüssigkeiten auf den Apparat.

Dieses Produkt is mit einem 3-drahtigen Erdungsstecher ausgerüstet. Diese
Sicherheitsmaßnahme darf nicht unwirksam gemacht werden.

Schließen Sie nie Tonverstärker unmittelbar an einen Anschluß des Apparates an.
Um elektrischen Schlag oder Feuer zu vermeiden, setaen Sie den Apparat weder Regen

noch Feuchtigkeit aus und betreiben Sie ihn nicht dort wo Wasser eindringen könnte.
Versuchen Sie nicht den Apparat zu betreiben falls er fallen gelassen, beschädigt,

oder Flüssigkeiten ausgesetzt wurde, oder falls sich seine Arbeitsweise derart
ändert daß daraus ein Bedarf nach Raparatur zu schließen ist.

Dieser Apparat sollte nur von qualifizierten Fachleuten geöffnet
werden. Das Abnehmen von Abdeckungen setzt Sie
gefährlichen Spannungen aus.

Dieses Dreick auf ihrem Apparat warnt Sie voe nicht-isolierter,
gefährlicher Spannung im Gehäuse…stark genug um eine
Berührungsgefahr darzustellen.

Diese Dreick auf ihram Apparat bedeutet daß wichtige Betriebsund
Wartungsanweisungen in der mitgelieferten Dokumentation zu
finden sind.

6

7

Dansk

Vigtig information om sikkerhed

Gem denne vejledning til senere brug.
Følg all anvisninger og advaresler på apparatet.
Apparatet skal altid tilslttes den korrekte spænding. Der henvises til brugsanvis-

ningen, der indeholder specifikationer for strømforsyning. Der gøres opmærk­som på, at ved varierende driftsspændinger kan det blive nødvendigt at bruge
andre lednings- og/eller stiktyper.

Apparated må ikke monteres i et kabinet uden ventilation eller lige over andet
udstyr, der udvikler varme, f.eks. forstærkere. Den maksimale omgivelsestemper­atur ved drift, der står opført i specifikationerne, skal overholdes.

Der er ventilationsåbninger i kainettet. For at sikre apparatets drift og hindre
overophidning må disse åbninger ikke blokeres elle tildækkes. Stik aldrig noget
ind igennem ventilationsåbningerne, og pas på aldrig at spilde nogen form for
væske på apparatet.

Dette apparat er forsynet med et stik med jordforbindelse. Denne sikkerheds­foranstaltning må aldrig omgås.

Udgangsstik fra audioforstærkere må aldrig sættes direkte i apparartet.
Apparatet må ikke udsættes for regn eller fugt og må ikke bruges i nærheden af

vand for at undgå risiko for elektrisk stød og brand.
Apparatet må aldrig bruges, hvis det er blevet stødt, beskadiget eller vadt, eller

hvis ændringer i ydelsen typer på, at det trænger til eftersyn.
Fette apparat må kun åbnes af fagfolk, Hvis dækslet tages af, udsættes man for

livsfarlig højspænding.

Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om uisoleret, farlig
spænding i apparatet… høj nok til at give elektrisk stød.

Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om vigtig driftsog
vedligeholdsinformation i den tilhørende litteratur.

Suomi

Tärkeitä varten

Säilytä nämä ohjeet tulevaa käyttoöä varten.
Seuraa kaikkia yksikköön merkittyjä ohjeita ja varoituksia.
Käytä aina oikeaa verkkojännitettä. Tehovaatimukset selviävät valmista-

jan käyttöohjjeista. Huomaa, että eri käyttöjännitteet saattavat vaatia
toisenlaisen verkkojohdon ja/tai- pistokkeen käytön.

Älä asenna yksikköä telineeseen jossa ei ole tuulet usta, tai välittömästi
lämpöä tuottavien laitteiden, esim. tehovahvistimien, yläpuolelle.
Ympäristön Iämpötila käytössä ei saa ylittää twotespesifikaation mak­similämpötilaa.

Kotelo on varustettu tuuletusreiillä ja -aukiooa. Luotettavan toiminnan
varmistamisksi ja ylilämiseksi näitä aukkoja ei saa sulkea tai peittää.
Mitään esineitä ei saa työntää tuuletusaukkoihin. Mitään nestritä ei saa
kaataa yksikköön.

Tuote on varustettu 3-jjohtimisella maadoitetulla verkkipistokkeella.
Tämä on turvallisuustoiminne eikä sitä saa poistaa.

Älä kytke audiotehovahvistimen lähtöjä suoraan mihinkään yksikön liit­timeen.

Sähköiskun ja palovaaran välttämiseksi yksikkö ei saa olla sateessa tai
kosteassa, eikä sitä saa käyttää märässä ympäristössa.

Älä käytä yksikköä jos se on pudonnut, vaurioitunut, kostunut, tai jos
sen suorituskkyky on huomattavasti muuttunut, maikä vaatii huoltoa.

Yksikön saa avata vain laitteeseen perehtynyt huoltohenkilö. Kansien
poisto altistaa sinut vaarallisille jännittelille.

Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy homponentissasi, varoittaa
siua eristämättömän vaarallisen jännitteen esiintymisestä
yksikön sisällä. Tämä jännite saattaa olla riittävä korkea
aiheuttamaan sähköiskuvaaran.

Tämä koimio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, kertoo sin­ulle, että tässä tuotedokumentoinnissa esiintyy tärkeitä
käyttö-ja ylläpite-ohjeita.

Norsk

Viktig informasjon om sikkerhet

Ta vare pådenne veiledningen for senere bruk.
Følg alle anvisningene og advarslene som er angitt på apparatet.
Apparatet skal alltid anvendes med korrekt spenning.
Produktbeskrivelsen inneholder spesifikasjoner for strømkraav. Vær oppmerksom

på at det ved ulike driftsspenninger kan være nødvendig å bruke en annen led­ningog/eller støpseltype.

Apparatet skai ikke monteres i skap uten ventilasjon, eller direkte over varmepro­duserende utstyr, som for eksempel kraftforsterkere. Den maksimale romtempera­turen som står oppgitt i produktbeskrivelsen, skal overholdes.

Apparatet er utstyrt med ventilasjonsåpninger. For at apparatet skal være pålitelig
i bruk og ikke overopphetes, må disse åpningene ikke blikkeres eller tildekkes.
Stikk aldri noe inn i ventilasjonsåpningene, og pass på at det aldri søles noen
form for væske på apparatet.

Dette apparatet er utstyrt med et jordet støpsel. Dette er en sikkerhetsforanstalt­ning som ikke må forandres.

Utgangsplugger fra audioforsterkere skai aldri koples direkte til apparatet.
Unngå brannfare og elektrisk støt ved å sørge for at apparatet ikke utsettes for

regn eller fuktighet og ikke anvendes i næheten an vann.
Apparatet skal ikke brukes hvis det har blitt utsatt for støt, er skadet eller blitt vått,

eller hvis endringer i ytelsen tyder på at det trenger service.
Dette apparatet skal kun åpnes av fagfolk. Hvis dekselet fjernes, utsettes man for

livsfarlig høyspenning.

Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som er en
advarsel om at det finnes uisolert, farlig spenning inne i kabi­nettet…høy nok til å utgjøre en fare for elektrisk støt.

Komponenten er merket med denne trkanten, som betyr at den
tilhørende litteraturen inneholder viktige opplysninger om drift
og vedikehold.

Svenska

Viktiga säkerhetsföreskrifter

Spara dess föreskrifter för framtida bruk.
Följ alla anvisningar och varningar som anges på engeten.
Använd alltid rätt nätspänning. Se tillverkarens bruksanvisningar för informa-

tion om effektkrav. Märkväl, att andra matningsspänningar eventuellt kräver att
en annan typs nätsladd och/eller kontakt anänds.

Installera inte enheten i ett oventilerat stativ, eller direkt ovanför utrustningar
som avger värme, t ex effektförstärkare. Se till att omgivningens temperatur
vid drift inte överskrider det angivna värdet i produktspecifikationen.

Behållaren är försedd med hål och öppningar för ventilering. För att garantera
tillförlitlig funktion och förhindra överhettning får dessa oppningar inte block­eras eller täckas. Inga föremål får skuffas in genom ventilationshålen. Inga
vätskor får spillas på enheten.

Produkten är försedd med en jordad 3-trådskontakt. Detta ä en säkerhetsfunk­tion som inte får tas ur bruk.

Anslut aldrig audioeffektförstärkarutgångar direkt till någon av enhetens
kontakter.

För att undvika elstöt eller brandfara får eenheten inte utsättas för reegn eller
fukt, eller användas på ställen där den blir våt.

Använd inte enheten om den far fallit i golbet, skadats, blivit våt, eller om dess
prestanda förändrats märkbart, vilket kräver service.

Enheten får öppnas endast av behörig servicepersonal. Farliga spänningar blir
tillgängliga när locken tas bort.

Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, varnar dig om
en oisolerad farlig spänning inne i engeten. Denna spänning
är eventuellt så hög att fara för elstöt föreligger.

Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, anger att viktiga
bruksanvisningar och servideanvisningar ingår i dokumenta­tionen i fråga.

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of this JBL
Synthesis S800 power amplifier! You have purchased a
product that embodies the best of what JBL has learned
about the emotional power of audio reproduction in over
fifty years of preeminence in the field. This amplifier
has been designed and crafted to provide the user with
a high level of sonic performance; special attention has
been paid to minimize the number of components in the
audio signal path, resulting in extremely low distortion,
excellent transient response, and wide dynamic range.
Synthesis products set new benchmarks in audio
technology, and, when used as part of a complete JBL
Synthesis System, will bring the ambience and
acoustics of some of the world’s greatest concert halls
and theaters into your home.

To obtain the best performance from this amplifier,
please be sure to completely read this user’s manual and
use the S800 only in accordance with its instructions.

Features

The JBL Synthesis S800 power amplifier features the
following:

THX

®

Ultra Specifications

This amplifier meets or exceeds the stringent specifications set
by the Lucasfilm THX Audio division in their specifications for
"Ultra"-class certification, including power handling, total
harmonic distortion, frequency response, signal to noise
ratio, slew rate, and crosstalk. When incorporated into a
complete THX system, you will hear in your home what the
director and sound engineer heard in the recording studio.

Multi-Channel Operation

The S800, a two channel amplifier that can also be
operated in bridged-mode as an extraordinarily
powerful single-channel amplifier (typically when used
to drive a subwoofer), has been designed to integrate
well into the world of multi-channel audio. When
coupled with the five channels available in the S650A,
or the seven channels of the S7150, they are a solid
foundation on which to build a high-performance home
cinema system that will astound the listener with its
power and realism.

High Power Capability

The S800 provides a truly satisfying 200 watts per
channel of clean audio (<0.03% THD) into eight ohm
loads, and 800 watts when operated in bridged-mode
into an eight ohm load, making it ideal for powering
subwoofers and surround speakers, which are frequently
less efficient than front speakers. Because of their power
capabilities, all Synthesis amplifiers have an extremely
wide dynamic range, an element critical to realistic home
cinema. Sound pressure levels equal to those present at
original performances are easily recreated in even the
largest of home listening environments.

Auto Turn-On and Power Sequencing Circuitry

When used in a JBL Synthesis System, the S800 can
be turned on automatically whenever the surround
processor is activated. No longer do you have to get out
of that chair to turn on the various pieces of equipment
in your entertainment system; just one touch on the
remote control of the surround processor, and you’re
a few seconds away from a truly impressive audio
presentation!

Modern amplifiers produce more power per channel
(and frequently have more channels) than those of the
traditional two-channel stereo era. Due to the high
current demands of power amplifiers at the instant of
turn-on, the S800, S650A, and S7150 amplifiers and
the SDEC digital equalizer are equipped with power
sequencing circuits which turn on each unit in sequence,
avoiding the large instantaneous current demand (and
possible house circuit breaker tripping) that would occur
should they all turn on at the same instant.

8

2.0

INTRODUCTION

AND FEATURES

2.0

INTRODUCTION
AND FEATURES

Quiet Cooling

The S800 utilizes a fan to cool the amplifier channels,
ensuring long-term reliability. To reduce fan noise to an
absolute minimum, a thermal sensing and control
circuit has been incorporated in the Synthesis S800
that senses increases in temperature within the amplifier
and powers a fan at a speed proportional to that
temperature increase. When the S800 is "loafing", the
fan turns very slowly – and quietly. At high listening
levels (and the higher operating temperatures this
creates within any amplifier), the sensing circuitry
causes the fan to turn faster, producing increased
cooling. As a result, the fan is never turning faster than
necessary, and most of the noise that is generated is
masked by the program being listened to.

Comprehensive and Isolated Circuit Protection

The S800 amplifier employs a sophisticated protective
circuit (one for each channel) that senses many
possible fault conditions, such as shorted loudspeaker

wires or excess power demand, and turns the affected
channel(s) and their blue front panel indicators off until
the fault condition is removed, at which time normal
operation is automatically restored. While protection of
this sort is not uncommon in today’s well-designed
amplifiers, a remarkable feature of the Synthesis S800’s
protective circuits is that they are optically-coupled to
the signal circuit; there is no direct electrical connection
between the signal path and the protective circuitry.

As a result, there can be no coloration of the
music, no interaction between protection and
amplification, until certain thresholds are
exceeded, at which point the channel(s) turn
off completely.

9

2.0

INTRODUCTION

AND FEATURES

2.0

INTRODUCTION
AND FEATURES

10

S800

3.0

OPERATION AND
CONTROLS

3.0

OPERATION AND
CONTROLS

3.1 S800

1. Power Switch

Pushing this button is all that is required to turn on the
S800 if it is not part of a Synthesis system and the

Manual On/Auto On switch (rear panel) is in the
Manual On position. If the amplifier is used as part of
a JBL Synthesis System, and the Manual On/Auto
On switch is in the Auto On position, the amplifier

will turn on when the surround processor is activated.
The front panel pushbutton power switch is left in the

ON (in) position..

2. Standby Indicator (red)

This indicator, immediately above the front panel power
switch, will glow red when the amplifier is in the
"standby" mode, whether operating as part of a
Synthesis system or not. When the S800 is in the
"operate" mode, this light will shut off and the blue
"operate" mode indicators will light.

3. Power Indicators (blue)

These indicators will light up when the power amplifier
is in the "operate" mode. Each monitors the operation
of one channel, and will extinguish if that channel’s
protective circuit is activated.

4. Input Jacks (Ch.1 and Ch.2) (see page 11)

If you are using the S800 as a stereo power amplifier,
connect the signal output(s) from the system equalizer
or surround processor to these jacks and set the
Stereo/Mono switch to the Stereo position. If you
are using the S800 in the bridged mode, connect the
subwoofer signal output from the equalizer to the Ch.1
jack only, and put the Stereo/Mono switch in the

Mono position.

5. Stereo/Mono Switch

See paragraph 4 above

6. Speaker Terminals (see page 11)

Connect the speakers to these terminals, following the
normal convention; wire the "+" side of the speaker to the
red terminal, and the "-" side to the black terminal. The
terminals for Channel 1 are on the left; those for Channel
2 on the right side as you face the rear panel. Use all four
terminals when using the amplifier in the stereo mode of
operation. Wire the speakers with the proper polarity;
reversing any speaker’s connections will not damage
either the speaker or the amplifier, but will result in poor
low frequency performance and imprecise imaging.

In mono mode, connect the speaker to the center red
terminals only; no connection is made to the

11

black terminals. Wire the "+" terminal of the speaker

to the left red terminal, and the "-" terminal of the
speaker to the right red terminal.

In bridged mode, speakers connect only to the
"hot" (red) amplifier output connectors, and
neither can be connected to ground under any
circumstances, as damage to the S800 will
result.

NOTE: The minimum load impedance that this

amplifier can handle safely is two ohms per channel in
stereo operation, and four ohms in mono. Using lower
impedance loads can damage the unit and will void
your warranty!

Use the following chart as a guide to the appropriate
gage of wire to use for different amplifier-speaker
distances:

7. Circuit Breaker/Main Power Switch

The main power switch, located on the rear panel of the
S800, is also a circuit breaker. Putting this switch in

the ON position allows the amplifier to enter the "standby"
and "operate" modes as controlled by the front panel
POWER switch and Manual On/Auto On switches.
Should the amplifier be asked to produce more power
t

han its design allows for a prolonged period, or should
the S800 draw an amount of current from the AC power
source that could damage internal components, the
handle of this switch will move to a center position.
Reduce the audio level and wait a minute for the circuit
breaker to reset, then move it to the OFF, then the ON
position. If the handle returns to the center ("tripped")
position, service is required; contact your JBL
Synthesis dealer.

The S800 was designed to operate reliably under virtu­ally all conditions. Even momentary short circuiting of
the output (speaker) connections will not ordinarily
damage the output circuitry (although this will activate
internal protective circuitry and cause one or more of
the front-panel blue LED indicators to extinguish until
the circuit resets.)

There are no user-serviceable parts in the S800; there
are no fuses accessible from outside the unit.
Internal fuses have been incorporated in the S800 to
protect it from short circuits and other faults, but these
should only be replaced by a qualified technician. In
case of one or more inoperative channels, call your
dealer to make service arrangements

3.0

OPERATION AND
CONTROLS

Wire Run Length Rec. Ga.

Up to 20' 16
Up to 50' 14
Up to 100' 12

Wire Run Length Minimum Gage

S800

VOIR LE CAHIER D'

ATTENTION:

WARNING;

WARNING:

serial number

S800

INSTRUCTION

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

AVIS:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

Ch. 1

BRIDGED

Input

-

Ch. 1 Output

+

+

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Ch. 2
Input

TRIGGERS

MANUAL

ON

10A

120V

~

50/60Hz
1200W

OFF

20A 120VAC/60Hz 2400 W

ON

STEREOMONO

-

+

Ch. 2 Output

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

-

AUTO

IN

OUT

ON

8. Auto On/ Manual On Switch

Put this switch in the Auto On position if the amplifier
is being used as part of a JBL Synthesis System. When
used in this way, the S800 will automatically turn on
when the power switch is depressed and the surround
processor is activated. For other installations, or
should individual control of each component be
desired, put this switch in the Manual On position.
The amplifier will then be controlled solely by the front
panel switch.

9. IN/OUT Din Jacks

If you are using the amplifier as part of a JBL Synthesis
System, it is necessary to use these jacks to interconnect
to other system components, so that control signals
(power on/off and music/cinema mode switching) can
be transmitted from one unit to the next, starting at the
surround processor, through the equalizer and amplifiers,
and ending at the speakers. Follow the connection
diagrams on the following pages corresponding to the
appropriate Synthesis system for detailed information

regarding these connections. Make connections to
these jacks only as shown in the diagrams. If these
jacks are used in any other manner, e.g., to control
electric screens, the unit can be damaged and the
warranty will be void. For specific electrical information
on these jacks, contact JBL Synthesis Customer
Service at (800) 336-4JBL.

Do not plug anything into these jacks if you are
not using the S800 with a JBL Synthesis System.

10. AC Inlet

Your S800 is shipped with an IEC-type removable
power cord that mates with the AC inlet on the rear
panel. To ensure proper operation, use the supplied
power cord. This amplifier is NOT a multi-voltage
unit; using a power cord with a different connection to
the AC wall receptacle will void the warranty.

12

3.0

OPERATION AND
CONTROLS

3.0

OPERATION AND
CONTROLS

General information

A Synthesis One installation incorporates a total of four
power amplifiers; two S800's and two S650A's. Eight of
the ten channels on the S650A's are to be used for
driving the HI frequency and LO frequency inputs on the
left, center, and right speakers, as well as the two side
ambient speakers. Please refer to the connection chart on
the following page; you will find that there are two spare
output channels on the S650A. If desired, these channels
can be connected to the rear outputs on the surround
processor for additional rear ambient speakers. They can
also be used to drive additional speakers in other areas.
The S800's are operated in bridged mode; each drives
one subwoofer. Verify that the subwoofers are connected
ONLY to the red terminals of the amp.

In bridged mode, speakers connect only to the
"hot" (red) amplifier output connectors, and
neither can be connected to ground under any
circumstances, as damage to the S800 will result.

A Synthesis Two or Three installation incorporates a total
of two power amplifiers, one S800 and one S7150 or one
S650A. All channels on the S650 or S7150 are to be used
for driving the left, center, right, and ambient speakers, with
the S800 running in stereo mode to drive the subwoofers.

Use the simplified connection diagrams on the following
pages to help you understand how to connect the S800
amplifier to a JBL Synthesis System. These diagrams are
intended to show the signal flow through the system. For
more detail in making these connections, please refer to
the JBL Synthesis Certified Dealer Installation Manual.

Connect DIN and audio cables between system
components, as shown on the following pages. Make
sure that on all power amplifiers the power switches are
in the depressed (ON) position and that the Auto On/
Manual On switches are in the Auto On position.
Operated in this mode, all of the components will turn on
with one touch of the power button on the surround
processor's remote control.

4.0

INTERCONNECTIONS IN
SYNTHESIS SYSTEMS

13

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

14

S650A

S650A

Power VC DVDV-TV Aux CD Tune Tape Rec/Zone Effe 2- Mut

JBL SDP-3
COPYRIGHT 1999

SDP-3 Digital Surround

POWER

RF TIMING

LOCK

ADVANCE
RETARD

NORMAL

OPTICAL

COAX

INPUT SELECT

AC-3®/RF DEMODULATOR

SDP-RFD

SDEC-1000A

SDP-3

S800

S800

S800

S800

Top

#1

#2

#3

#4

#5

#6

#7

4.1 Synthesis One
Suggested Rack Mounting Order

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

ARNING;

ARNING;

4.2 Synthesis One
Control Wiring Diagram

15

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

POWER

RF IN S/PDIF INPUTS

PWR CTL

SDP-RFD AC-3®/RF

DEMODULATOR

PWR CTL

INPUT LOOP

9V~, 1A,
50-60Hz

USE SYNTHESIS

MSA AC ADAPTER

THRU

SDP-RFD

S-VIDEO VIDEO

TAPE TUNER CD AUX TV V-DISC DVD VCR

L

AUDIO

AUDIO

L

R

R

INPUT

L

R

MONITOR

ZONE 2 RECORD 1 RECORD 2

OUTPUT

SDP-3

WARNING – To reduce the risk of

fire or electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture.
Do not remove cover. No user
serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified service personnel.

R-AMB L-AMB R-SUB L-SUB C-HI R-HI L-HI R-IN L-IN SUB-IN C-IN

SDEC-1000A

DIN IN

AUTOONAUTO

CINEMA

MODE

MODE

C-LO

CINEMA

MODE

(Use "Cinema Mode" position only

when there are no music mode

speakers in the system.)

RS-232

DIN OUT

®

THX

CONNECTOR

MANUAL

ON

OUTPUT

R-LO L-LO

OUTPUT

®

AC-3

COAXS/PDIF OPTICAL

S/PDIF OUT

132

ABC

EXPANSION PORTS

45

S/PDIF INTPUTS

L

R

MAIN OUTPUTS

SDEC-1000A
Digital Equalizer Controller
JBL Inc., Northridge CA
Made in USA

AUTO
MODE

REAR

SIDE CENTER FRONT

L

R

SUBWOOFER

L/R IN

12

AUTO

ON

TRIGGERS

PGM GND PWR

S/P DIF DIGITAL INPUT

RCR

C/SUB IN

ANALOG INPUT

SPEAKER CONTROL JACK

1

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RS 232

ATTENTION

RISQUE DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

3

SDP-3

LISTED AUDIO
EQUIPMENT

JBL Synthesis, INC.

7D77
E172268

ASSEMBLED IN U.S.A.

S

TRIGGERS

IR IN

GND

PGMPWR

100-240V 50-60 Hz, 35W

PIN 1 Ground
PIN 2 +5vdc in Cinema mode

CONTROL JACK SIGNALS

PIN 1 Ground
PIN 2 Ground
PIN 3 +5vdc when Power is on

AMB IN

R-AMB-IN L-AMB-IN

MANUAL

THX® IS A REGISTERED

TRADEMARK OF
LUCASFILM, LTD.

ON

PIN 4 Not Used
PIN 5 +5vdc in Cinema mode

2

3

1

4

5

2

S650A Power Amplifier

JBL, INC.

Northridge, CA
Designed and Assembled in the USA Serial No.

Ch. 3

+

-

S650A Power Amplifier
JBL, INC.
Northridge, CA
Designed and Assembled in the USA Serial No.

Ch. 3

+

-

TRIGGERS

IN

SPKR 1

SPKR 2

Ch. 4

+

-

Manual

Ch. 4

+

-

Manual

OUT

Ch. 5

ManualOnAuto

+

-

On

TRIGGERS

IN

SPKR 1

SPKR 2

OUT

Ch. 5

ManualOnAuto

+

-

On

Ch. 1

Ch. 1

+

-

S650A

Ch. 1

Ch. 1

+

-

S650A

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRONIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRONIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5

Ch. 2

+

-

CAUTION: SPEAKER IMPEDANCE ATTENTION: IMPEDANCE DE HAUT - PARLEURS 4 Min

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5

Ch. 2

+

-

CAUTION: SPEAKER IMPEDANCE ATTENTION: IMPEDANCE DE HAUT - PARLEURS 4 Min

NOTES

1)To ensure proper operation, connect the system control lines
exactly as indicated.

2)If any of the control lines become disconnected while the
system is on, turn off all Synthesis components before
reconnecting control lines. This will reset all operation.

Auto

On

Auto

On

TO SPEAKERS

On

VOIR LE CAHIER D'

ATTENTION:

WARNING;

WARNING:

serial number

S800

On

ATTENTION:

WARNING;

WARNING:

serial number

S800

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

INSTRUCTION

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

AVIS:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

Stereo/Mono

VOIR LE CAHIER D'

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

INSTRUCTION

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

AVIS:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

Stereo/Mono

Ch. 1

BRIDGED

Input

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

STEREOMONO

BRIDGED

+

-

Ch. 2 Output

Ch. 1 Output

Manual

BRIDGED

Ch. 1
Input

BRIDGED

+

-

Ch. 1 Output

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

-

+-+

On

STEREOMONO

-

+-+

Ch. 2 Output

Manual

On

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

Ch. 2
Input

Ch. 2

Input

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Auto

On

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Auto

On

TRIGGERS

ON

10A

120V
50/60Hz
1200W

OFF

TRIGGERS

IN

OUT

AUTO

MANUAL

ON

ON

~

IN

OUT

AUTO

MANUAL

ON

ON

ON

10A
120V

~

50/60Hz
1200W

OFF

16

AUDIO

EXPANSION PORTS

L

R

L

R

ABC

L

R

L

R

L

R

SUBWOOFER

TAPE TUNER CD AUX TV V-DISC DVD VCR

AUDIO

INPUT

TRIGGERS

GND

S

PGMPWR

IR IN

TRIGGERS

PGM GND PWR

RCR

LISTED AUDIO

EQUIPMENT

7D77

E172268

MAIN OUTPUTS

REAR

ZONE 2 RECORD 1 RECORD 2

SIDE CENTER FRONT

12

3

S/PDIF INTPUTS

132

45

S/PDIF OUT

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

ATTENTION

RS 232

100-240V 50-60 Hz, 35W

SDP-3

JBL Synthesis, INC.
ASSEMBLED IN U.S.A.

OUTPUT

MONITOR

S-VIDEO VIDEO

SDEC-1000A

Manual

On

Auto

On

S650A

IN

SPKR 1

SPKR 2

OUT

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRONIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

S650A Power Amplifier
JBL, INC.
Northridge, CA
Designed and Assembled in the USA Serial No.

Ch. 1

Ch. 1

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5

+

-

Ch. 2

+

-

Ch. 3

+

-

Ch. 4

+

-

Ch. 5

+

-

ManualOnAuto

On

CAUTION: SPEAKER IMPEDANCE ATTENTION: IMPEDANCE DE HAUT - PARLEURS 4 Min

TRIGGERS

Manual

On

Auto

On

S650A

S800

S800

IN

SPKR 1

SPKR 2

OUT

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRONIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

S650A Power Amplifier
JBL, INC.
Northridge, CA
Designed and Assembled in the USA Serial No.

Ch. 1

Ch. 1

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4

Ch. 5

+

-

Ch. 2

+

-

Ch. 3

+

-

Ch. 4

+

-

Ch. 5

+

-

ManualOnAuto

On

CAUTION: SPEAKER IMPEDANCE ATTENTION: IMPEDANCE DE HAUT - PARLEURS 4 Min

TRIGGERS

Optional 7.1
System Connection
For Left and Right
Rear Ambient Speakers

10A

120V
50/60Hz
1200W

ON

OFF

MANUAL

ON

AUTO

ON

IN

OUT

Ch. 2 Output

Ch. 1

BRIDGED

Input

Ch. 2
Input

ATTENTION:

VOIR LE CAHIER D'
INSTRUCTION

WARNING:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

serial number

STEREOMONO

BRIDGED

Ch. 1 Output

BRIDGED

+

-

+-+

-

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

TRIGGERS

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

~

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

WARNING;ARNING;

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

10A
120V

50/60Hz

1200W

ON

OFF

MANUAL

ON

AUTO

ON

IN

OUT

Ch. 2 Output

Ch. 1

BRIDGED

Input

Ch. 2
Input

ATTENTION:

VOIR LE CAHIER D'
INSTRUCTION

WARNING:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

serial number

STEREOMONO

BRIDGED

Ch. 1 Output

BRIDGED

+

-

+-+

-

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

TRIGGERS

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

~

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

WARNING;ARNING;

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

WARNING – To reduce the risk of

fire or electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture.
Do not remove cover. No user
serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified service personnel.

THX® IS A REGISTERED

TRADEMARK OF
LUCASFILM, LTD.

SDEC-1000A
Digital Equalizer Controller
JBL, INC., Northridge CA
Made in USA

R-AMB L-AMB R-SUB L-SUB C-HI R-HI L-HI R-IN L-IN SUB-IN C-IN

ANALOG INPUT

R-AMB-IN L-AMB-IN

THX

®

CONNECTOR

OUTPUT

MANUAL

ON

RS-232

DIN IN

DIN OUT

AUTOONAUTO

MODE

CINEMA
MODE

R-LO L-LO

C-LO

POWER

RF IN S/PDIF INPUTS

9V~, 1A,
50-60Hz

AC-3

®

COAXS/PDIF OPTICAL

USE SYNTHESIS

MSA AC ADAPTER

PWR CTL

INPUT LOOP

THRU

PWR CTL

OUTPUT

AC-3®/RF OUTPUT

DIGITAL OUTPUT

COAX

OPTICAL
(TOSLINK)

OR

ANALOG

AUDIO OUT

L

R

SDP-RFD AC-3®/RF

DEMODULATOR

75 ohm COAX cable

(as short as possible)

75 ohm

COAX cable

Optical cable

(Use one or the other.
Most players have only one.)

SDP-RFD

SDP-3

CD/LASER DISC/
DVD PLAYER

Stereo/Mono

Manual

On

Auto

On

4.4 Synthesis One
Interconnection Diagram

Cables Included in S1000IC

# type

length useage

1to6 RCA-RCA 2.5 meter Surround Processor

to SDEC1000A

7to14 RCA-Rt.RCA 2.0 meter SDEC1000A to

S650A, Rt angle RCA
attaches to Amp side

15 & 16 RCA-RCA 2.0 meter SDEC1000A to S800

Amps

17 & 18 RCA-Rt.RCA 2.5 meter Surround Processor to

S650A rear ambient
channels for use in

7.1 systems

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

17

Power VCR DVD

V-Disc

TV Aux CD Tuner Tape Rec/Zone 2 Effect 2-Channel Mute

JBL SDP-3
COPYRIGHT 1999

SDP-3 Digital Surround Processor/Controller

SDP-3

SDEC-2500A

S800

S7150

S800

Top

#1

#2

#3

#4

4.4 Synthesis Two & Three
Suggested Rack Mounting Order

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

SDEC-2500A

ARNING;

4.5 Synthesis Two & Three
Control Wiring Diagram

18

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

S-VIDEO VIDEO

TAPE TUNER CD AUX TV V-DISC DVD VCR

L

L

AUDIO

AUDIO

R

SDP-3

WARNING – To reduce the risk of

fire or electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture.
Do not remove cover. No user
serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified service personnel.

R-AMB L-AMB R-SUB L-SUB C R L R-IN L-IN SUB-IN C-IN

SDEC-2500A

L

R

R

INPUT

DIN IN

DIN OUT

AUTOONAUTO

CINEMA

MANUAL

MODE

MODE

ON

CINEMA

MODE

(Use "Cinema Mode" position only

when there are no music mode

speakers in the system.)

MONITOR

ZONE 2 RECORD 1 RECORD 2

®

THX

CONNECTOR

OUTPUT

SPEAKER CONTROL JACK

S/PDIF OUT

132

ABC

EXPANSION PORTS

45

S/PDIF INTPUTS

L

R

MAIN OUTPUTS

OUTPUT

SDEC-2500A
Digital Equalizer Controller

RS-232

JBL, INC. Northridge CA
Made in USA

AUTO
MODE

REAR

L

R

SIDE CENTER FRONT

SUBWOOFER

12

AUTO

ON

PGM GND PWR

S/P DIF DIGITAL INPUT

RCR

TRIGGERS

ANALOG INPUT

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RS 232

ATTENTION

RISQUE DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

3

SDP-3

LISTED AUDIO
EQUIPMENT

JBL Synthesis, INC.

7D77
E172268

ASSEMBLED IN U.S.A.

S

TRIGGERS

IR IN

GND

PGMPWR

100-240V 50-60 Hz, 35W

1

2

PIN 1 Ground
PIN 2 +5vdc in Cinema mode

CONTROL JACK SIGNALS

1

4

5

2

R-AMB-IN L-AMB-IN

MANUAL

ON

3

PIN 1 Ground
PIN 2 Ground
PIN 3 +5vdc when Power is on
PIN 4 Not Used
PIN 5 +5vdc in Cinema mode

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

Ch. 1
Input

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

AVIS:

WARNING:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

ATTENTION:

VOIR LE CAHIER D'

INSTRUCTION

serial number

S7150 POWER AMPLIFIER

Ch. 2

Ch. 3

Input

+

+

-

-

Ch. 1 Output Ch. 2 Output Ch. 3 Output Ch. 4 Output Ch. 5 Output Ch. 6 Output Ch. 7 Output

Ch. 4

Input

Input

+

-

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

Ch. 5

Input

WARNING:

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture

+

-

+

-

Ch. 6

Input

S7150

NOTES

1)To ensure proper operation, connect the system control lines
exactly as indicated.

2)If any of the control lines become disconnected while the
system is on, turn off all Synthesis components before
reconnecting control lines. This will reset all operation.

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Ch. 7
Input

+

-

Manual

On

ATTENTION:

WARNING;

WARNING:

serial number

S800

TRIGGERS

IN

SPKR-1 SPKR-2

OUT

MANUALONAUTO

ON

ON

15A
120V

~

50/60Hz
1800W

OFF

+

-

Auto

On

VOIR LE CAHIER D'

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

INSTRUCTION

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

AVIS:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

Ch. 1

BRIDGED

Input

Stereo/Mono

-

Ch. 1 Output

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

+

STEREOMONO

-

+-+

Ch. 2 Output

Manual

On

TO SPEAKERS

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED

JBL SYNTHESIS

IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

NORTHRIDGE, CA

Ch. 2
Input

Auto

On

TRIGGERS

ON

10A

120V
50/60Hz
1200W

OFF

IN

OUT

AUTO

MANUAL

ON

ON

~

19

WARNING – To reduce the risk of

fire or electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture.
Do not remove cover. No user
serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified service personnel.

SDEC-2500A
Digital Equalizer Controller
JBL, INC., Northridge CA
Made in USA

R-AMB L-AMB R-SUB L-SUB C R L R-IN L-IN SUB-IN C-IN

ANALOG INPUT

R-AMB-IN L-AMB-IN

THX

®

CONNECTOR

OUTPUT

MANUAL

ON

RS-232

DIN IN

DIN OUT

AUTOONAUTO

MODE

CINEMA
MODE

WARNING:

serial number

ATTENTION:

VOIR LE CAHIER D'
INSTRUCTION

15A

120V
50/60Hz
1800W

Ch. 1 Output Ch. 2 Output Ch. 3 Output Ch. 4 Output Ch. 5 Output Ch. 6 Output Ch. 7 Output

ON

OFF

MANUALONAUTO

ON

IN

OUT

SPKR-1 SPKR-2

Ch. 1

Input

Ch. 2
Input

Ch. 3

Input

Ch. 4
Input

Ch. 5
Input

Ch. 6

Input

Ch. 7

Input

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

~

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S7150 POWER AMPLIFIER

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

TRIGGERS

+

-

+

-

+

-

+

-

+

-

+

-

+

-

WARNING:

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

AUDIO

EXPANSION PORTS

L

R

L

R

ABC

L

R

L

R

L

R

SUBWOOFER

TAPE TUNER CD AUX TV V-DISC DVD VCR

AUDIO

INPUT

TRIGGERS

GND

S

PGMPWR

IR IN

TRIGGERS

PGM GND PWR

RCR

LISTED AUDIO
EQUIPMENT

7D77
E172268

MAIN OUTPUTS

REAR

ZONE 2 RECORD 1 RECORD 2

SIDE CENTER FRONT

12

3

S/PDIF INTPUTS

132

45

S/PDIF OUT

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

ATTENTION

RS 232

100-240V 50-60 Hz, 35W

SDP-3

JBL Synthesis, INC.
ASSEMBLED IN U.S.A.

OUTPUT

MONITOR

S-VIDEO VIDEO

SDEC-2500A

POWER

RF IN S/PDIF INPUTS

9V~, 1A,
50-60Hz

AC-3

®

COAXS/PDIF OPTICAL

USE SYNTHESIS

MSA AC ADAPTER

PWR CTL

INPUT LOOP

THRU

PWR CTL

OUTPUT

AC-3®/RF OUTPUT

DIGITAL OUTPUT

COAX

OPTICAL

(TOSLINK)

OR

ANALOG

AUDIO OUT

L

R

SDP-RFD AC-3®/RF

DEMODULATOR

75 ohm COAX cable

(as short as possible)

75 ohm

COAX cable

Optical cable

(Use one or the other.
Most players have only one.)

SDP-RFD

SDP-3

CD/LASER DISC/
DVD PLAYER

Optional 7 Channel

S7150

Manual

On

Auto

On

S800

10A
120V
50/60Hz
1200W

ON

OFF

MANUAL

ON

AUTO

ON

IN

OUT

Ch. 2 Output

Ch. 1

BRIDGED

Input

Ch. 2
Input

ATTENTION:

VOIR LE CAHIER D'
INSTRUCTION

WARNING:

HAZARDOUS ENERGY, MAKE PROPER SPEAKERCONNECTIONS; SEE OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING.

serial number

STEREOMONO

BRIDGED

Ch. 1 Output

BRIDGED

+

-

+-+

-

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S800 POWER AMPLIFIER

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

TRIGGERS

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

~

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel.

WARNING;ARNING;

To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture

Stereo/Mono

Manual

On

Auto

On

4.6 Synthesis Two & Three
Interconnection Diagram

Cables Included in S2500IC

# type

length useage

1to6 RCA-RCA 2.5 meter Surround Processor

to SDEC2500A

7to11 RCA-Rt.RCA 2.0 meter SDEC2500A to

S7150, Rt angle RCA
attaches to Amp side

12 & 13 RCA-RCA 2.0 meter SDEC2500A to S800

Amps

14 & 15 RCA-Rt.RCA 2.5 meter Surround Processor to

S7150 rear ambient
channels for use in

7.1 systems

4.0

CONNECTING YOUR
SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

20

Installation of the S800 is a straight-forward process.

1. All Synthesis power amplifiers have been designed
to be mounted in EIA standard racks or stacked
freestanding.

Always put amplifiers on the bottom of a
stack.

If the S800 is being mounted in a rack, it is
suggested that its feet be removed prior to
installation. If the S800 will be stacked with
other components, use the feet that came attached
to the unit. This will ensure that there is sufficient
air space underneath so that heat can be dissipated
effectively.

2. Make sure that the amplifiers are located in a
well-ventilated, cool area. Be certain that the front
and rear panels are not obstructed, as the cooling
fan brings air in from the rear and expels it at the
front. It is very important not to obstruct the airflow
from the center front panel; heat buildup and
premature failure may occur.

5.0

PHYSICAL
CONSIDERATIONS

5.0

INSTALLING YOUR
POWER AMPLIFIER

Problem: Amplifier does not turn on. Neither the red nor blue
indicator lights are on.

1. Make sure that the amplifier is plugged in, and verify that

there is the proper voltage at the wall outlet.

Problem: The red indicator lights, but the blue indicators do
not light up when the power switch is depressed.

1. If the amplifier is being used in a Synthesis system, make

sure that the surround processor is turned on, the Auto
On/Manual On switch is in the Auto On position, and that
all of the necessary DIN cables are connected between the
various system components. Refer to the "CONNECTING
YOUR SYNTHESIS SYSTEM" section for reference.

2. If the amplifier is not being used with a Synthesis system,

make sure that the Auto On/Manual On switch is in the
Manual On position.

Problem: There is no sound from the speakers, but the
amplifier is on (blue indicators lit).

1. Make sure that the surround processor or equalizer is on,

and that the correct source has been connected and selected.

2. Make sure that the correct outputs are connected from the

surround processor or equalizer to the amplifier.

3. Make sure that the speakers are connected to the correct

terminals. Check for short circuits at both ends of the
speaker cables.

Problem: Not all of the amplifiers turn on in a Synthesis system.

1. Make sure that all required DIN cables are connected

between system components. Refer to the "CONNECTING
YOUR SYNTHESIS SYSTEM" section.

2. Make sure that each amplifier has its Auto On/Manual On
switch in the Auto On position.

Problem: Insufficient audio from the speakers.

Check that the output levels of the surround processor or
equalizer are set properly.

Problem: Insufficient bass.

Verify that the speakers have been wired to the amplifier with
the correct polarity.

Problem: Speakers do not switch from music to cinema mode.

1. Make sure that the screw terminal and DIN adapter cables to

speakers are correctly wired and are connected to the correct
jacks on the S650A or S7150.

2. Make sure that all required DIN cables are connected
between system components.

Problem: Audible hum from the speakers.

1. Check the power outlets and make sure that there is a solid

earth ground present. (The services of an electrician may be
required.)

2. Make sure that all signal cables are routed away from power
cords.

3. If these suggestions fail, experiment by running ground
wires between the rear panel screws of the amplifiers and the
other system components, such as the surround processor
or signal processing package.

If you still encounter difficulty after trying the above suggestions,
call your JBL Authorized Dealer or JBL at (800) 336-4JBL for
further assistance.

21

6.0

TROUBLESHOOTING

6.0

TROUBLESHOOTING

Rated Power Output 200W in stereo mode into 8 ohms -- 800W in bridged mode into 8 ohms

THD < 0.03% 20Hz - 20kHz

Input Impedance 28k ohms

Sensitivity 1V in = 100 watts out (THX Standard)

1.4V in = 200 watts out

Frequency Response ( at 1 W ) 20Hz - 20kHz +0, -0.25dB

S/N Ratio ( A-weighted at rated power ) ≥ 100dB

Damping Factor ( 8 ohms ) ≥ 400

Power Bandwidth 5Hz - 100kHz +0, –3db

IM Distortion ≤ 0.03%

Unit Size 7” H x 19” W x 17

¹⁄₂

” D — 178 mm x 484 mm x 444 mm

Unit Weight 70 Ibs — 32 Kg

Shipping Weight 82 Ibs — 37 Kg

All features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

"LUCASFILM THX AUDIO" and "HOME THX CINEMA" are trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.

22

7.0

SPECIFICATIONS

7.0

SPECIFICATIONS

JBL Synthesis
8500 Balboa Boulevard
Northridge, CA 91329
250 Crossways Park Drive
Woodbury, NY 11797
800-336-4JBL

A Harman International Company

Part No. S800-OM6/00
Printed in USA on recycled paper