JBL SAM1HF User Manual

SYNTHESIS®ARRA Y™MODULE

SAM1HF,
SAM2LF

ODULAR ARRAY

M
LOUDSPEAKER

OWNER
INSTALLER
MANUAL

’

S AND

’

S

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................3

NCLUDED.............................................................................................................................................................4

I

PEAKER PLACEMENT .............................................................................................................................................4

S

EFT AND RIGHT SPEAKERS ..............................................................................................................................4

L

ENTER CHANNEL SPEAKERS ...........................................................................................................................4

C

MBIENT SURROUND SPEAKERS .......................................................................................................................5

A

HANNEL SYSTEMS ..........................................................................................................................5

5.1-C

HANNEL SYSTEMS ..........................................................................................................................6

6.1-C

HANNEL SYSTEMS ..........................................................................................................................6

7.1-C

SAM1HF

ONNECTING THE SPEAKERS TO THE REST OF YOUR SYSTEM.......................................................................................10

C

ROUBLESHOOTING...............................................................................................................................................15

T

PECIFICATIONS...................................................................................................................................................16

S

AND SAM2LF CONFIGURATION AND ASSEMBLY .........................................................................................7

REPARING THE HOOKUP WIRE .......................................................................................................................10

P

ONNECTIONS TO THE SYNTHESIS ELECTRONICS ................................................................................................10

C

NPUT/OUTPUT ASSIGNMENTS WITH ACTIVE CROSSOVER ....................................................................................11

I

NPUT/OUTPUT ASSIGNMENTS WITH PASSIVE CROSSOVER...................................................................................13

I

ONNECTION NOTES .....................................................................................................................................13

C

2

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this JBL Synthesis®Array™Module home theater speaker. This product represents the
synthesis of everything that JBL has learned about the emotional power of audio and video in sixty years of preemi­nence in the field. It sets new benchmarks in the use of “high technology” and provides you with the experience of
being in some of the world’s greatest movie houses and concert halls, right at home! JBL’s Synthesis Array speaker
systems feature the following:

THX ULTRA2™-LICENSED HOME AUDIO SYSTEM: When used with a THX

speaker system will deliver a state-of-the-art THX home theater experience to your living room. You will hear in your
home exactly what the director and sound engineer heard in the recording studio. The system will reproduce the
audio flawlessly and without distortion.

ULTRAHIGH-FREQUENCY COMPRESSION DRIVER: 1" (25mm) Pure-titanium compression driver with aluminum

edge-wound voice coil and 2" (51mm) neodymium motor assembly, mounted in a SonoGlass
horn for extended high-frequency response to exceed SACD

™

and DVD-Audio specifications.

HIGH-POWER COMPRESSION HORN: Horns are commonplace in movie theaters across the world, because

of their high power handling and well-defined high-frequency output. The horns employed in SAM1HF have very
low dis

tortion and a well-controlled directivity, to put the dialogue at the center of the screen and the effects all

around you.

ACCURATE MID-BASS DRIVERS AND SUBWOOFERS: The 8" (200mm) mid-bass drivers incorporate many of

JBL’s patented technologies – such as Symmetrical Field Geometry
and Vented Gap Cooling
sound without harshness, stridency or listener fatigue. From two to as many as four 15" or 18" (380mm or 457mm)
high-power subwoofers complete the experience with earth-shattering, deep bass.

™

(VGC) – as well as unique cone and dome materials, to provide tight, smooth midrange

™

(SFG), Symmetrical Inductance Modulation (SIM)

®

controller and amplifiers, your

®

constant-directivity

COMMON VOICING: Synthesis Array uses common voicing across the front three channels. Since identical drivers

are used, each speaker has the same tonal qualities, thus as a sound is panned from one side to the other, there will
be no change in timbre.

MAGNETIC SHIELDING: All front speakers are magnetically shielded, allowing you to place them near video mon-

itors without generating interference or distorting the picture.

DUAL “INSIDE” NEODYMIUM MOTOR STRUCTURE: Two neodymium magnets are used. The “top” neodymium

magnet is magnetized with opposite polarity to the main, lower neodymium magnet. This inverted dual-magnet configu­ration improves magnetic shielding and offers increased acoustic output.

DEEP-ANODIZED CONE AND DOME MATERIAL: The special deep-anodized aluminum cone and dome material,

together with the motor features, helps to reduce midband distortions to very low levels (approximately 50dB to 60dB
below the fundamental signal driven at 100dB output).

TWO-STAGE PHASE PLUG: The phase plug is a key element in this compression driver. The accuracy of the phase

plug geometry is most important to achieve a wide and flat frequency response. The pressure distribution in the phase
plug is manipulated by adjustments to the number and width of the slots and is optimized to achieve a coherent
pressure front across the operating range at the exit of the phase plug.

SYMMETRICAL INDUCTANCE MODULATION (SIM): The flux-stabilizing ring and copper gap ring are also

optimized for size and position, to help minimize or eliminate “asymmetrical inductance modulation.” Minimizing this
asymmetrical inductance modulation leads to even further distortion reduction and improved vocal clarity.

3

RCL

VIEWING

POSITION

FLOOR PLAN

INCLUDED

SAM1HF

(2) mounting brackets: metal brackets for mounting to the SAM2LF module
(4) knobs: used to securely hold the mounting brackets to the cabinet

SAM2LF

(2) mounting brackets: metal brackets for mounting to the SAM1HF module
(4) knobs: used to securely hold the mounting brackets to the cabinet

SPEAKER PLACEMENT

Positioning your loudspeakers properly is critical in order to achieve the
sonic performance of a home theater. Please read the following section
for guidance in correct and optimal placement.

LEFT AND RIGHT SPEAKERS: If you have purchased a Synthesis Array

Module digital home theater system, then one of the configurations of the
SAM1HF/SAM2LF modules will serve as your front left and right main
speakers. Please see the Configuration and Connection diagrams in the
“SAM1HF and SAM2LF Configuration and Assembly” section to
correctly configure your main speakers.

Since the left and right speakers have been designed for maximum local­ization of sound, they should be placed with the center of the speakers at
about the same height on screen as the actors would be, to aid in the illu­sion that the actors’ voices are coming directly from their on-screen images.
Ideally, the speakers will be placed about 45 degrees apart from each other,
viewed from the listening position, so that the distance between the speakers
is the same as each speaker’s distance from the listener (see Figure 1).

CENTER CHANNEL SPEAKERS: Please see the Configuration and

Connection diagrams in the “SAM1HF and SAM2LF Configuration and
Assembly” section to correctly configure your center speaker. Regardless
of the configuration you have chosen, it is important to place the horn
array vertically during installation in order to take advantage of its sound­dispersion characteristics. If you mount it horizontally, it will not provide the
correct dispersion pattern. If the speaker is being used with a perforated
projection screen, it should be mounted behind the center of the screen
(see Figure 2).

If a nonperforated projection screen, plasma display or other fixed video
device is being used in the installation, then the recommended location is
directly below (and as close as possible to) the video display (see Figure 3),
although the inverse of this method will work also.

Figure 1. 5.1-Channel system

Figure 2.

Figure 3.

4

Min. 2'-0"

SPEAKER PLACEMENT

NOTE: It is extremely important to place the tweeter/mid-bass arrays for each of the center, left and right speakers

at the same height. The horn array containing the tweeter in the center channel speaker should be no more than two
feet (0.6 meter) higher or lower than those in the left and right speakers. This preserves the “localization integrity” of
“sound pans,” in which the sound appears to move from left to center to right. If the program material also appears to
travel up and down, it can destroy the illusion of panning effects and so should be avoided.

AMBIENT SURROUND SPEAKERS: Although it has been common for many years to use a number of surround

speakers in commercial movie houses, until recently, the traditional home theater configuration called for 5.1
channels, i.e., front left, center, front right, surround left and surround right, plus a low-frequency effects channel.
The newer surround formats that are appearing in consumer audio equipment are calling for more complicated 6.1­and 7.1-channel systems. The advantages of using additional speakers are many. Additional channels enable a more
versatile use of directionality for a more accurate surround presentation. Also, a higher overall sound-pressure level
can be achieved with less energy expenditure from any individual speaker. Placement of the surround speakers
remains critical.

5.1-CHANNEL SYSTEMS

The ambient surround speakers work optimally if they are placed as far back from
the screen as the viewing chairs are. If there are two rows of chairs, these speakers
should be placed between them.

The ambient surround speakers should be placed higher than the seating area, at
least two feet (0.6 meter) above (seated) ear level (see Figure 4).

The preferred method to mount the ambient surrounds is to put them directly in the
side walls. This lets each speaker radiate to the front and back of the room and to
reflect off the side walls.

There are a few instances in which the ambient surrounds would perform
better if mounted in the ceiling rather than the walls. If one or both of the walls
are “acoustically dead,”due to the presence of windows, fabric, furniture or other
absorption, it may be necessary to turn the ambient speakers sideways and,
instead of mounting them in a vertical orientation, mount them in the ceiling in
a horizontal orientation.

Figure 4.

5

RCL

FLOOR PLAN

RCL

SIDE
LEFT

SIDE

RIGHT

REAR LEFT

REAR RIGHT

SPEAKER PLACEMENT

6.1-CHANNEL SYSTEMS

A 6.1-channel system can be thought of as a 5.1-channel system with the
addition of a rear center speaker placed midway between the two surround
speakers, and further to the rear than the surrounds. It should be placed at the
same height as the side surround speakers (see Figure 5).

7.1-CHANNEL SYSTEMS

In a 7.1-channel system, two speakers are added for rear fill, in addition to the
surround speakers in a 5.1-channel system. The two additional speakers are
placed on the rear wall or near the rear wall in the ceiling (see Figure 6).

Figure 5. 6.1-Channel system

Figure 6. 7.1-Channel system

6

SAM1HF AND SAM2LF CONFIGURATION AND ASSEMBLY

The different configurations of speaker arrays are accomplished by combining one (1) SAM1HF module with at least
one (1) and up to four (4) SAM2LF modules. The configuration of your system depends greatly on room size and at
what SPL the system will be used. The different array configurations can be used to customize individual speakers
for any application in any system. Typical uses would be as front left, front right and center channel speakers, but
they can also be used as direct radiating surround speakers. A basic speaker array will consist of one (1) SAM1HF
and one (1) SAM2LF as a three-way bi-amped speaker with an active crossover located in the Synthesis Digital EQ
or as a three-way passive speaker when used with the SAM12x crossover.

NOTE: The SAM1HF is the high-frequency horn module, and the SAM2LF is the low-frequency woofer
module; you must use at least one of each for a complete speaker system.

The modules are physically connected to each other by using the included connecting bars and hand-tightened knobs
to mount the modules together. There are multiple mounting points, and several bars should be used to maintain a
rigid connection.

Make sure the completed speakers are securely mounted and will not fall over, as they may be very heavy
and could cause serious damage if not properly handled.

Any module can be connected to any other module. We have identified four recommended and supported config­urations. For all configurations, you should observe the following mounting guidelines:

FOR VERTICAL MOUNTING:

Be careful while constructing the module array, as it may become unsteady and tip over.

1. When mounting the SAM1HF to the SAM2LF with the SAM1HF on top, be sure to keep the modules from
separating while you tighten the bars. This can be accomplished simply by keeping downward pressure on the
front of the module while tightening the screws from the rear.

2. Use at least two mounting bars, running from the top to the bottom of the modules.

3. Use at least four hand screws, two on each module, with four on each module preferred.

FOR HORIZONTAL MOUNTING:

1. When mounting the SAM1HF to the SAM2LF, it is important to keep the top of the modules aligned. This is
accomplished by turning the modules upside down before you begin mounting them together. Once you have
finished, be sure to turn them right side up.

2. Use at least two mounting bars, running from the top to the bottom of the modules.

3. Use at least four hand screws, two on each module, with four on each module preferred.

4. The bars will not extend beyond two modules. If you are connecting three across (as in a dual-woofer module
design), use two sets of bars, each connected to the center module.

FOR A COMBINATION OF HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL MOUNTING:

1. Attach the vertical modules first.

2. Attach the horizontal modules second.

3. Overlap the mounting bars so that they form a stiff construction.

TRIM PANEL (BAFFLE BLOCKS) INSTALLATION:

1. Purchase the correct trim panels for your configuration.

2. The trim panels will act as both the cosmetic and structural finish of the speaker.

7

SAM1HF AND SAM2LF CONFIGURATION AND ASSEMBLY

IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not place the SAM1HF on its side. It must be mounted with the UHF DRIVER on the
top, as shown below. Failure to do this will have a negative impact on the performance of this speaker.

Detailed Configurations and System Connection

Configuration 1: One SAM1HF and one SAM2LF vertical

Configuration 2: One SAM1HF and one SAM2LF horizontal

NOTE: Shown without the trim panel (baffle blocks) installed on the SAM1HF.

8

SAM1HF AND SAM2LF CONFIGURATION AND ASSEMBLY

Configuration 3: One SAM1HF and two SAM2LF horizontal

NOTE: Shown without the trim panel (baffle blocks) installed on the SAM1HF.

Configuration 4: One SAM1HF and two SAM2LF vertical

NOTE: Shown without the trim panel (baffle blocks) installed on the SAM1HF.

9

CONNECTING THE SPEAKERS TO THE REST OF YOUR SYSTEM

To connect the Synthesis Array loudspeakers to the power amplifiers or receiver, use two-conductor insulated speaker
wire. We recommend #14 AWG wire as a minimum size. Your JBL dealer can recommend suitable cables. Both the
SAM1HF and SAM2LF utilize push-style friction binding posts that can accommodate up to #10 AWG stranded wire.

PREPARING THE HOOKUP WIRE

1. First determine the distance between your amplifier and the most distant speaker in each group (fronts, surrounds,
back surrounds, subwoofers).

2.

Now make the hookup wires for all speakers in each group this length, even if one speaker is much closer
amplifier than the other. This will help maintain proper signal balance.

3. Strip off 3/8" (10mm) of insulation from both ends of each conductor.

4. Twist each set of standard wires into a tightly bunched spiral.

5. Speakers and electronics terminals have corresponding (+) and (–) terminals. Most manufacturers of speakers and
electronics, including JBL, use red to denote the (+) terminal and black for the (–) terminal, although some elec­tronics manufacturers have adopted the new color-coding standard promulgated by the Consumer Electronics
Association. In that case, the positive terminal will be colored to correspond to the channel position, while the
negative terminal will be black.

to your

It is important to connect all speakers identically: (+) on the speaker to (+) on the amplifier and (–) on the speaker to
(–) on the amplifier. Wiring “out of phase” results in thin sound, weak bass and poor imaging.

With the advent of multichannel surround sound systems, connecting all of the speakers in your system with the

correct polarity remains equally important to preserve the proper ambience and directionality of the program material.

Now find a visual difference between the two conductors of each molded pair of speaker wires. Differentiating
marks can be a different color wire (copper or silver); a strand of yarn in one conductor; thin, raised ribs on one part
of the outer insulation; or a printed marking on one part of the outer insulation. It doesn’t matter which of the two
strands go to the (+) and (–) on the speakers and amplifiers, as long as all speakers are connected identically. Push
down on the binding post, insert the wire into the hole, and release.

CONNECTIONS TO THE SYNTHESIS ELECTRONICS

The SAM1HF and SAM2LF speaker modules do not have a built-in crossover. They must be used with the active
crossover as designed in the SDEC-4000 digital equalizer in a bi-amplified configuration or with the outboard passive
crossover, SAM12x, with the SDEC-3000. Each SAM module will require a single amplifier channel in a bi-amplifed
system. Connect the SAM modules according to the chart on the following page.

NOTES:

• The SAM1HF will connect to the HI output of the SDEC-4000 or SAM12x.

• The SAM2LF will connect to the LOW output of the SDEC-4000 or SAM12x.

• Please consult the SDEC-4000 and SDEC-3000 installation guide for detailed instructions.

• DO NOT use a full-range output from an amplifier, as damage may occur unless you are using the SAM12x.

10

CONNECTING THE SPEAKERS TO THE REST OF YOUR SYSTEM

INPUT/OUTPUT ASSIGNMENTS WITH ACTIVE CROSSOVER (BI-AMPED)

SSuurrrroouunndd PPrroocceessssoorr ttoo SSDDEECC--44000000PP IInnppuuttss
SS44000000IICC

NNuummbbeerr CChhaannnneell SSDDEECC--44000000PP

1 FRONT LEFT A1

2 FRONT RIGHT A2
3 CENTER A3
4 LEFT SIDE A4
5 RIGHT SIDE B1
6 LEFT REAR B2
7 RIGHT REAR B3
8 SUBWOOFER B4

N/C C1
N/C C2
N/C C3
N/C C4

SSDDEECC--44000000XX OOuuttppuuttss ttoo AAmmpplliiffiieerrss
SS44000000IICC

NNuummbbeerr CChhaannnneell SSDDEECC--44000000XX

9 LEFT FRONT-LOW A1
10 LEFT FRONT-HI A2
11 RIGHT FRONT-LOW A3
12 RIGHT FRONT-HI A4
13 CENTER FRONT-LOW B1
14 CENTER FRONT-HI B2
15 LEFT SIDE 1 B3
16 LEFT SIDE 2 B4

N/C C1

N/C C2
17 RIGHT SIDE 1 C3
18 RIGHT SIDE 2 C4

N/C D1

N/C D2
19 LEFT REAR D3
20 RIGHT REAR D4

SSDDEECC--44000000PP OOuuttppuuttss ttoo AAmmpplliiffiieerrss
SS44000000IICC

NNuummbbeerr CChhaannnneell SSDDEECC--44000000PP

21 SUBWOOFER 1 D1
22 SUBWOOFER 2 D2
23 SUBWOOFER 3 D3
24 SUBWOOFER 4 D4

NOTE: You must also connect
both the CobraNet
nections and Ethernet control
connections to complete the
installation. See the SDEC-4000
installation guide for detailed
instructions.

®

audio con-

11

CONNECTING THE SPEAKERS TO THE REST OF YOUR SYSTEM

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;WARNING;

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

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;WARNING;

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

S5160

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

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

:SIVA

R
I
R
V
UO

SA
P
EN
E
UQI

RTCE

LE

COHC

ED

EU

Q
S
IR

NO
ITUAC

K
C
OH
S CIR

TCEL

E F

O
KSIR

NEPO TON OD

~

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S5160 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

S5160

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

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

:SIVA

R
I
R
V
UO

SA
P
EN
E
UQI

RTCE

LE

COHC

ED

EU

Q
S
IR

NO
ITUAC

K
C
OH
S CIR

TCEL

E F

O
KSIR

NEPO TON OD

~

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S5160 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

SDEC-4000P

SDEC-4000X

To Ethernet hub
(for system calibration)

To Ethernet hub
(for system calibration)

SDP-40

MICROPHONE INPUTS

1 2

2 1

1 2

1 (OSD)

2

Fix

Var Fix

Var

RS 232

IR IN

TRIGGER OUTPUTS

3 4

RECORD OUTPUTS

MAIN OUTPUTS

VIDEOVIDEO

CENTER

SUBWOOFER

LFE

MAIN AUDIO OUTPUTS

SIDE

REAR

AUX

FRONT

ZONE 2

ZONE 2

AUDIO

AUDIO

S/PDIF

MAIN

AUDIO

OUTPUTS

AUDIO VIDEOS-VIDEO

AES/EBU

S/PDIF

FRONT LFECENTER SUBWOOFER

SIDE

AUX

REAR

L R

L R

L R

L R L R L R

L

R

L

R

L

R

L

R

L

R

L

R

(C)

(SUB)

(LS)

(RS)

(L)

(R)

L

R

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3

4 5 6

1 2 3

4 5 6

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

INPUTS COMPONENT VIDEO

INPUT 1 INPUT 2

INPUT 4

INPUT 3

OUTPUT

Y PR PB

Y PR PB

Y PR PB Y PR PB

Y PR PB

SDEC-4000 With Bi-Amplified Speakers (Active Crossover)

NOTE: Although the SDP-40
is shown here, connections
for the SDP-5 are similar.

12

CONNECTING THE SPEAKER TO THE REST OF YOUR SYSTEM

INPUT/OUTPUT ASSIGNMENTS WITH PASSIVE CROSSOVER

The SDEC-3000 supports up to 7.1 input with up to 7.1 output. The input and output assignments are as described
in the below chart. You must make the correct connections from the surround processor output to the amplifier input
for the system to work correctly. Please refer to the connection diagram for more information.

The correct Synthesis Interconnect kit includes all the necessary connections for using the SDEC in the Synthesis sys­tem. Please be sure to order the S3000IC for use with SDEC-3000 and S4000IC for use with SDEC-4000. Retrofit kits are
also available. Please contact JBL Synthesis Technical Support for more information at [phone] (USA only).

CONNECTION NOTES

• Please follow the wiring diagram and the Input/Output Assignments chart for correct connections.

• You will need to use the Ethernet network port on the rear panel of the unit for the final calibration process.
You can use a crossover network cable if you plan to connect directly to the SDEC-3000 from a computer.
Alternatively, you can connect the SDEC-3000 through any standard Ethernet hub.

• When using the SDP-40 processor, make sure the subwoofer (in speaker setup) is set to Mono output and connect
to the Subwoofer Left output. Do not use the LFE output.

SSuurrrroouunndd PPrroocceessssoorr ttoo SSDDEECC--33000000 IInnppuuttss
SS33000000IICC

NNuummbbeerr CChhaannnneell SSDDEECC--33000000

1 LEFT FRONT A1
2 RIGHT FRONT A2
3 CENTER FRONT A3
4 LEFT SIDE A4
5 RIGHT SIDE B1
6 LEFT REAR B2
7 RIGHT REAR B3
8 SUBWOOFER B4

(Mono Sub Left)

SSDDEECC--33000000 OOuuttppuuttss ttoo AAmmpplliiffiieerrss
SS33000000IICC

NNuummbbeerr CChhaannnneell SSDDEECC--33000000

9 LEFT FRONT C1
10 RIGHT FRONT C2
11 CENTER FRONT C3
12 LEFT SIDE C4
13 RIGHT SIDE D1
14 LEFT REAR D2
15 RIGHT REAR D3
16 SUBWOOFER D4

NOTE: Place the SAM12x
passive crossover as close
to the speakers as possible.
The SAM12x has a single
speaker level input and multiple
outputs for the SAM1HF and
SAM2LF speaker modules.

13

CONNECTION TO THE REST OF THE JBL SYNTHESIS SYSTEM

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 ;WARNING;

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

S7150

WARNING:

serial number

ATTENTION:

VOIR LE CAHIER D'

INSTRUCTION

15A

120V

50/60Hz

1800W

Ch. 1 Output

ON

OFF

MANUALONAUTO

ON

IN

OUT

SPKR-1 SPKR-2

:SIVA

R

IR
VUO

SAP

EN
E
UQIR

T
CE
L
E
C
OHC

E
D
E

U
QSI

R

N
OITU

AC

KC

OHS CIRTCELE F

O
K

SI
R

NEPO T

ON O

D

~

DESIGNED, ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED
IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

S5160 POWER AMPLIFIER

JBL SYNTHESIS
NORTHRIDGE, CA

TRIGGERS

+

-

Ch. 2 Output

+

-

Ch. 3 Output

+

-

Ch. 4 Output

+

-

Ch. 5 Output

+

-

Ch. 6 Output

+

-

Ch. 7 Output

+

-

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

SDP-5

Ch. 1
Input

Ch. 2
Input

Ch. 3
Input

Ch. 4

Input

Ch. 5

Input

Ch. 6

Input

Ch. 7
Input

SDEC-3000

S/PDIF INPUTS

IR IN

TRIGGER
OUTPUTS

OUT

S/PDIF

S/N

RS-232

2

1

VIDEO

S-VIDEOAUDIO

INPUTS

(L)

(R)

(C)

(SUB)

(LS)

(RS)

L

R

(L)

(R)

(C)

(SUB)

(LS)

(RS)

Y

PR PB

Y

PR PB

Y

PR PB

INPUT 1

INPUT 3

INPUT 2

Y

PR PB

OUTPUT

1

2

3

4

1212

34

1

2

3

4

5

12345678

CENTER

FRONT

SIDE

REAR

L

R

L

R

SUBWOOFER

MAIN

VIDEO

ZONE 2

VIDEO

AUDIO

1

SDP-5 Digital Surround Processor/Controller

JBL, Inc. Northridge, CA

Assembled in USA

AC 100-240V ~ 50-60 HZ, 60W

OUTPUTS

2

TUV

US

C

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION

RISQUE DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

To Ethernet hub
(for system calibration)

SAM12x

LEFT

FRONT

SAM12x

RIGHT

FRONT

SAM12x

CENTER

FRONT

SDEC-3000 With Passive Crossover (SAM12x)

NOTE: Although the
SDP-5 is shown here,
connections for the
SDP-40 are similar.

14

TROUBLESHOOTING

SYMPTOM PROBABLE CAUSE SOLUTION

No sound coming • Amplifier not turned on • Turn on amplifier.
from speaker

• Amplifier gain is low •Make sure that there is
amplifier gain for that channel.

• Correct source not •Select proper source.

selected or turned on

• Defective patch cords to amplifier • Check/replace patch cords.

• Speaker wires not • Check speaker wire

connected to amplifier connection to amplifier.

• Balance control set improperly • Make sure Balance control is set
at center, or 12 o’clock, position.

• Speaker wires damaged •Make sure none of the speaker wires

or shorted are frayed, cut or punctured. Make sure

no wires are touching other wires or
terminals and creating a short circuit.

• Speaker not configured •In Dolby

correctly sure that the receiver/processor is

• Center speaker is configured •In Dolby Pro Logic

incorrectly center speaker is not in phantom mode.

• Problem not diagnosed •To diagnose the likely source of the

Bass is very weak • Subwoofers are wired out •Make sure that positive terminals on the

of phase subwoofers go to the positive terminals

®

Digital or DTS®mode, make

configured so that the speaker in
question is enabled.

®

mode, make sure the

problem, it is often helpful to switch the
nonfunctioning speaker with one that
is functioning correctly. Turn off all
electronics before exchanging the
speakers. Turn everything back on, and
determine whether the problem is in
the same place, or has moved with the
speaker. If the problem is in the same
place, the source is most likely with your
receiver or amplifier. If the problem has
followed the speaker, then contact your
authorized JBL Synthesis custom installer
or dealer for further assistance. If that
is not possible, visit our Web site at
www.jblsynthesis.com for further information.

on the amplifiers (red) and do the same
for the negatives.

• Subwoofers have not •Experiment with different locations.

been placed optimally

15

SPECIFICATIONS

SAM1HF SAM2LF

U

LTRAHIGH-FREQUENCY DRIVER 045TI 1" (25MM) PURE-TITANIUM COMPRESSION DRIVER N/A

WITH ALUMINUM EDGE-WOUND VOICE COIL AND

2" (51MM) NEODYMIUM MOTOR ASSEMBLY, MOUNTED

IN A SONOGLASS®CONSTANT-DIRECTIVITY HORN

HIGH-FREQUENCY TRANSDUCER 435AL-1 3" (75MM) AQUAPLAS-TREATED ALUMINUM-DOME N/A

COMPRESSION DRIVER WITH ALUMINUM EDGE-WOUND

VOICE COIL AND NEODYMIUM MOTOR ASSEMBLY
MOUNTED IN A VERTICAL SONOGLASS®CONSTANT-

DIRECTIVITY HORN

LOW-FREQUENCY TRANSDUCER N/A 8" (200MM) DEEP-ANODIZED ALUMINUM

SENSITIVITY (2.83V/1M)98DB92DB

FREQUENCY RESPONSE (–3DB) 36HZTO40KHZ* 36HZTO40KHZ*

MAX. RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER POWER 300 WATTS 300 WATTS

CROSSOVER FREQUENCIES 9KHZ N/A

NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 6 OHMS 6 OHMS

DIMENSIONS (H X W X D) 17-1/4" X 8" X 11-1/2" ** 20" X 10" X 10-3/4" **

(438MM X 200MM X 292MM) (508MM X 254MM X 273MM)

WEIGHT PER SPEAKER 25 LB (11KG) 29 LB (13KG)

,

CONE AND DOME MATERIAL WITH DUAL

“INSIDE” NEODYMIUM MAGNETS, SHIELDED

MOTOR STRUCTURE AND

VOICE COILS

2" (51MM)

* Note 1: Frequency response is for the complete speaker module, SAM1HF/SAM2LF together.

** Note 2: Dimensions do not include mounting hardware or feet.

Add 3" (75mm) depth for mounting hardware, and 1" (25mm) height for feet.

Features, specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.

JBL, JBL Synthesis, Synthesis and SonoGlass are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated, registered in the United States
and/or other countries. Array, Symmetrical Field Geometry and Vented Gap Cooling are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.

CobraNet is a registered trademark of Peak Audio, a division of Cirrus Logic, Inc.

THX is a registered trademark, and THX Ultra2 is a trademark, of THX Ltd. All rights reserved.

SACD is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Dolby and Pro Logic are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

DTS is a registered trademark of DTS, Inc.

Declaration of Conformity

We, Harman Consumer Group, Inc.

2, route de Tours
72500 Château du Loir
France

declare in own responsibility that the products described

in this owner’s manual are in compliance with technical

standards:

Harman Consumer Group, Inc.
250 Crossways Park Drive, Woodbury, NY 11797

8500 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, CA 91329

818.830.8757

www.jblsynthesis.com

EN 61000-6-3:2001

EN 61000-6-1:2001

Part No. 361697-001 4/07

Luc Guillaume

Harman Consumer Group, Inc.

Château du Loir, France 4/07