JL Audio IWS-SYS-2, IWS-SYS-1 User Manual

Owner’s Manual
IWS-SYS-1 IWS-SYS-2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE AMP PANEL OR SPEAKER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
1) Read the Instructions — All safety and operating instructions should be read before the subwoofer is operated.
2) Retain the Instructions — e safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3) Heed Warnings — All warnings on the subwoofer and in the operating instructions should be followed.
e lightning ash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sucient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
e exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
4) Follow Instructions — All operating and use instructions should be followed.
5) Water and Moisture — e subwoofer should NOT be used near water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, etc.
6) Ventilation — e subwoofer amplier should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the subwoofer amplier should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block airow over the heatsink ns. If placing the subwoofer amplier in a “built-in” installation, ensure that airow to the heat sinks are not impeded. Do not cover the amplier heatsink with tablecloths, curtains, etc.
9) Heat and Flames — e subwoofer and amplier should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, replaces, or other devices which produce heat. Do not place candles on top of or near the subwoofer or amplier.
10) Power sources — e subwoofer should only be connected to a power supply of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the product.
11) 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 the subwoofer.
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12) Cleaning — e subwoofer and amplier should be cleaned only as recommended in the operating instructions.
13) Nonuse Periods — e power cord of the subwoofer amp should be unplugged from the outlet when the subwoofer is le unused for long periods of time.
14) Lightning and Power Surges — We recommend that you disconnect the subwoofer amp from the electrical outlet during electrical storms and/or recurring power interruptions to prevent damage due to power surges.
15) Object or Liquid Entry — Care should be taken so that objects do not fall into and liquids are not spilled onto the subwoofer enclosure. Do not expose the subwoofer to dripping or splashing from liquids. Do not place objects lled with liquids on top of, or near the subwoofer or amplier. For example: ower vases, beverages, liquid-fueled lamps, etc.
16) Damage Requiring Service — e subwoofer should be serviced by qualied service personnel when:
a. the power-supply cord or plug has been damaged b. objects have fallen or liquid has been spilled into the subwoofer c. the subwoofer has been exposed to rain d. the subwoofer does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance e. the subwoofer has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged f. the subwoofer driver’s cone and/or suspension has been
physically damaged
WARNING
17) Servicing — e user should not attempt to service the subwoofer beyond what is described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualied service personnel.
18) Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or outlet strips as this can result in a risk of re or electric shock.
19) Grounding — is subwoofer is supplied with a three-prong, grounded power cord. Precautions should be taken so that the grounding means of the subwoofer are not defeated. Defeating the grounding prong on the subwoofer power cord could increase the risk of electric shock and could result in permanent damage to the subwoofer’s electronics.
THIS SUBWOOFER IS CAPABLE OF PRODUCING VERY HIGH SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS. PLEASE EXERCISE RESTRAINT IN ITS OPERATION TO PROTECT YOUR HEARING FROM PERMANENT DAMAGE.
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FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
NOTE: is equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits of Part 15 of the FCC Rules. ese limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. is equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Important Safety Instructions: ......................................... 2-3
Introduction:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Product Overview: ...................................................... 5
Placing your Fathom IWS in Your Listening Room: ...................... 6-10
Front Control Panel Layout: ..............................................11
Rear Control and Connector Panel Layout: ................................11
Front Panel Controls in Detail: ........................................12-15
Connecting your Fathom IWS(s): ......................................16-23
Recommended Setup Procedure: ......................................24-28
Frequently Asked Questions: ............................................ 29
Troubleshooting: ...................................................... 30
Limited Warranty / Service Information: ..................................31
Specications: ......................................................... 32
JL AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES INCLUDED IN Fathom IWS SUBWOOFERS
DMA-Optimized Motor System DMA is JL Audio’s proprietary Dynamic Motor Analysis system aimed at improving dynamic motor behavior. As a result of DMA optimization, loudspeaker motors remain linear in force over an extreme range of excursion and also maintain a highly stable xed magnetic eld over a wide power range. is leads to vastly reduced distortion and faithfully reproduced transients... or put simply: tight, clean, articulate bass.
Concentric Tube Suspension (U.S. Patent #5,734,132 & #6,095,280)
e suspension technology of the Fathom IWS driver permits high linear excursions within a very shallow frame design.
Floating-Cone™ Attach Method (U.S. Patent #6,501,844)
is assembly technique ensures proper surround geometry in the assembled speaker for better excursion control and dynamic voice coil alignment.
Plateau-Reinforced Spider Attachment (U.S. Patent #6,118,884)
is high-integrity suspension attachment relieves stress from the spider material at high-excursions for enhanced reliability.
High-Damping Feedback Circuit (U.S. Patent #6,441,685)
is proprietary, discrete control circuit design allows our Class D switching ampliers to maintain an excellent damping factor for improved transient behavior and delity.
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of a JL Audio Fathom powered subwoofer system. is product has been critically engineered to deliver exceptional performance in your home theater or audio system for many years to come.
As a company, we are intensely committed to core research into high-performance loudspeaker and amplier technologies. JL Audio’s long excursion subwoofer driver designs are widely considered as reference standards for linear behavior and high output. We have also focused our eorts to create powerful amplier and signal-processing technologies specically aimed at delivering exceptional low-frequency performance. Your Fathom combines these core disciplines within a compact, beautifully craed package to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.
We sincerely thank you for your purchase and invite you to read this manual thoroughly in order to achieve the highest level of performance with your Fathom IWS subwoofer system. Enjoy.
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PRODUCT OVERVIEW
JL Audio Fathom IWS subwoofers combine a state-of-the-art JL Audio subwoofer driver and electronics/amplier package with a highly optimized enclosure to deliver an exceptional listening experience in your home theater or home audio system.
e subwoofer driver in your Fathom subwoofer system is capable of outstanding linear excursion without distress or audible distortion. is reference-quality driver enables your Fathom to reproduce powerful low frequency events with stunning impact and unprecedented accuracy.
To get the most from this long excursion driver platform, prodigious amounts of controlled power are needed. Our electronics engineering team conducted an intense analysis of typical program material and its dynamic demands in order to balance current draw and actual output power requirements relative to the system’s impedance characteristics. Aer careful study, a pair of precisely engineered switching ampliers employing patented feedback technology were created. ese advanced designs are capable of unclipped output voltages equivalent to 1000 watts (System 1) and 2000 watts (System 2) of RMS power when referenced to the nominal loudspeaker impedance, allowing us to take full advantage of each driver’s full excursion envelope.
e beautiful cabinet enclosing the workings of your Fathom is also the result of careful engineering. To contain the pressures created by the Fathom driver, we utilized CNC-cut, cabinet-grade baltic birch plywood with extensive internal bracing features and advanced assembly techniques.
Your listening room is the other enclosure that aects the way your bass will sound. All rooms create a specic sonic signature, which must be eectively managed to achieve well-balanced low frequency performance. To aid in this process, the Fathom includes an extensive set of signal processing tools aimed at optimizing your Fathom’s performance within your listening space. ese features include JL Audio’s exclusive Automatic Room Optimization system.
As you can see from this brief introduction, there is a lot of technology in this in-wall subwoofer. e contents of this manual will explain the features, guide you through the setup and tuning of your Fathom subwoofer and help you achieve your ultimate low-frequency listening experience.
IMPORTAN T
If you require assistance, we urge you to contact your authorized JL Audio retailer for expert setup advice and service.
IMPORTANT! IT IS A VERY GOOD IDEA TO READ THE NEXT SECTION BEFORE
UNPACKING YOUR FATHOM IWS. UNPACKING THE SUBWOOFER NEAR ITS
FINAL LOCATION IS RECOMMENDED.
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PLACING YOUR FATHOM IWS CABINETS IN YOUR LISTENING ROOM:
Your listening room or theater is an integral part of your sound reproduction system. e physical dimensions of the room and its furnishings, materials, doors and windows play an important role in dening how your system sounds.
When you place a sound source in an enclosed rectangular space, “standing waves” are created, resulting from the relationship between the sound’s wavelength and your room’s dimensions. In other words, standing waves result from sound energy that is trapped in the room as it bounces back and forth between opposing walls. Standing waves in the room create acoustic peaks and dips where the sound is either louder or soer, based solely on your physical position in the room. Energy also “builds up” at the room’s boundaries, creating exaggerated bass response at certain frequencies. ese fundamental room resonances are called room “modes.”
e moral of this mode story is to try and avoid seating positions in standing wave peak or dip regions. It is highly recommended that you place your listening chairs in areas where modal peaks and dips are moderate and do not reinforce one another. e two most obvious areas to avoid are those near the exact center of the room and those close to any of the room’s walls.
Just as your listening seat can be in a peak or dip region, so can your subwoofer. When placed in a room corner, a subwoofer maximally excites the room’s mode structure, creating the strongest output with the fewest dips. When the subwoofer is pulled away from a corner or wall, the room modes are excited less, which can alter the sound at your listening seat.
Be sure to experiment with both your listening seat position and subwoofer position to nd the best solution. Careful experimentation usually leads to a superior sounding system. Use our setup suggestions (illustrated on the opposing page and the following pages) to get you started.
If you cannot avoid placing your sofa against the back wall or your subwoofer in a less than optimal position, all is not lost. Your Fathom IWS’s Automatic Room Optimization (A.R.O.) System can dramatically improve these less-than-ideal situations.
We recommend that you begin by placing your Fathom IWS enclosure in the front of the room, near the front le or right speaker, but not directly in the corner of the room. Because the IWS enclosures are built into the walls,
you cannot move them later if the corner-loaded bass turns out to be too strong. Please refer to the following illustrations for further placement ideas.
We recommend that you avoid placing the Fathom IWS enclosures near windows to prevent rattling and sound transmission to the outside world.
If you are planning to install your Fathom IWS amplier inside a cabinet, please refer to the guidelines on page 8.
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Recommended Subwoofer Placement Options for One Fathom IWS Enclosure
MORE INTENSE
AVOID
CORNER
PLACEMENT
SMOOTHER
RECOMMENDED
SUBWOOFER
PLACEMENT
ZONES
(For Single Subwoofer)
MORE INTENSE
SMOOTHER
AVOID
CORNER
PLACEMENT
COMPROMISED SEATING POSITIONS
(Results in weaker, uneven bass performance)
BEST SEATING POSITIONS
(Most accurate bass performance)
COMPROMISED SEATING POSITIONS
(More intense, but less accurate bass performance)
CENTERLINE OF ROOM
APPROX. 1/3 OF TOTAL ROOM
LENGTH AWAY FROM BACK WALL
CLOSE TO BACK WALL OF ROOM
WORST
SEAT
Page 7 | Fathom IWS
SPECIAL AMPLIFIER CONSIDERATIONS FOR RACK MOUNTING OR CUSTOM CABINET INSTALLATIONS
Fathom IWS ampliers are designed to be “built-in” friendly. All typically needed controls are located on the front panel. A Fathom IWS amp can be easily integrated into an equipment rack or custom cabinetry by following a few simple guidelines.
1) Allow adequate clear space around the Fathom IWS amp’s side-mounted
heatsinks for adequate cooling. Also allow space behind the amp for connector clearance.
2) e Fathom IWS amp ships ready to be mounted in a standard
equipment rack.
3) e Fathom IWS amplier also includes table-top hardware. Special front-
panel end covers that replace the rack ears and rubber feet are included with the IWS amp. To use the amp on a table top, simply remove the hex screws that attach the rack ears and then install the covers. e rubber feet screw into threaded holes in the bottom of the amplier case.
4) While the Fathom IWS amp generally runs only warm during spirited operation,
we do recommend that adequate heat vents are included in any custom cabinet which encloses the Fathom IWS amp. A pair of 3 inch (7.5 cm) diameter vents near the bottom of the cabinet and near the top of the cabinet, will allow cool air to circulate over the heatsinks of your Fathom IWS amp keeping it cool and happy.
Rack Ears
End Covers
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Using Two Fathom IWS Enclosures
When using two Fathom IWS boxes, try placement along the front wall near the front le and right speakers, or at the center points of opposing walls as shown at right.
Experimentation with listener placement is recommended to achieve the best results – the benets can be substantial.
High-resolution measurements and professional system calibration are recommended for the best possible results & system performance.
Recommended Subwoofer Placement Options for Two Fathom IWS boxes
Page 9 | Fathom IWS
Recommended Subwoofer Placement Options for Three Fathom IWSs
1 2
1 2
3
3
Using Three or Four Fathom IWS boxes
Research indicates that the smoothest bass response for a large listening area can be achieved using four subwoofers, placing one at the midpoint of each of the four walls (although using two or three subwoofers can be almost as good).
Experimentation with subwoofer and listener placement is recommended to achieve the best results – the benets can be substantial.
High-resolution measurements and professional system calibration are recommended for the best possible results & system performance.
Recommended Subwoofer Placement Options for Four Fathom IWSs
1 2
1
3 4
3
24
1 2
3 4
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Front Control Panel
e labeled Figure below depicts the front control panel of a Fathom IWS subwoofer.
A.R.O.
page 12-13
Power
page 12
Level Mode
Input Mode
page 13
page 13
Master Level
page 14
Lights
page 14
LP Filter
page 14
Rear Controls and Connectors
e labeled Figure below depicts the rear panel of a Fathom IWS subwoofer.
Unbalanced
Inputs
page 17
Isolated/Grounded
Switch
page 18
Input Mode
Switch
page 20
Subwoofer
Output(s)
LP freq. (H z)
page 14
e.l.f. trim (dB)
page 15
phase (deg.)
page 15
Polarity
page 15
IEC-Style AC
Connector
page 19
Balance d
Inputs
page 16
Output to
Slave Connector
page 19
Page 11 | Fathom IWS
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS IN DETAIL
Power Switch
e “Power” switch determines the operational readiness of the Fathom IWS system and should be the only switch used to turn the Fathom IWS amp on and o. Do not use a power strip switch, switched outlet or any other external switch as these may result in undesirable and potentially damaging transient pops. Do not unplug the Fathom IWS’s AC power cord while the unit is turned on.
e power switch has three positions:
“On”: e Fathom IWS amp is fully powered at all times. Front panel lights are
on unless they have been turned o via the “Lights” switch.
“O ”: e Fathom IWS’s power amplier is powered down. In this state, a negligible current draw will exist for operating the main power relays. All front panel lights are o .
“Aut o”: e Fathom IWS amp will power up when an audio signal is present at any of its inputs and will power down the internal amplier if no signal has been detected at its inputs for thirty (30) minutes. When dormant, the Fathom IWS will draw a very small amount of current (< 10 watts) to power its signal-sensing circuitry. Front panel lights will turn o when the Fathom IWS powers down and light when the Fathom IWS powers up (unless they have been turned o via the “Lights” switch).
In the unlikely event that the Auto feature is not sensitive enough for a particular system, use a Y-cable adaptor to split the incoming signal into both RCA or XLR inputs on the Fathom IWS. is will increase the input sensitivity by 6 dB. Please be aware that if the Auto sensitivity is too high or if there is signicant noise on the input cable, the Fathom IWS may not turn o as desired. If this happens, remove the Y-cable adaptor or look for the noise source in the upstream components.
IMPORTAN T
PROCESSOR (BALANCED OUTPUTS) RECEIVER / PROCESSOR (UNBALANCED OUTPUTS)
PRE OUT
REAR CENTER
FRONT
FRONT
L
REAR
SUB
R
OUTPUTS
OR
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)
Automatic Room Optimization (A.R.O.)
A powerful feature of the JL Audio Fathom IWS subwoofers is their innovative Automatic Room Optimization (A.R.O.) technology. is one-touch system serves to eliminate the largest acoustic response peaks in your home theater at the main listening seat, greatly improving the in-room low-frequency response. Calibration of the A.R.O. system is fully automated. Please consult the next section of this manual for details on how to use the A.R.O. system.
Using the included JL Audio calibration microphone, the A.R.O. calibration procedure takes less than three minutes. In brief, you will connect the included microphone to the “Calibration Mic.” input, press the Calibrate button, and then hold the microphone at ear height in your main listening seat during the test. A noise sequence will be played through the Fathom IWS subwoofer, and the room response will be automatically measured, analyzed and equalized to eliminate the single largest acoustic room response peak at your listening seat. For detailed
instructions on the A.R.O. setup procedure, refer to pages 29-30.
Calibration Mic. Input
is input is for connecting the supplied JL Audio calibration microphone to the Fathom IWS subwoofer. Connect one end of the supplied cable to the microphone and the other end to this jack prior to using the A.R.O. system. e A.R.O. system is specically calibrated to this microphone and its connection scheme is specic to the supplied microphone. e calibration sequence will not operate when a dierent microphone is connected or if no microphone is connected.
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Demo Button
e Demo button triggers a 20 second long tone sequence that briey demonstrates the sound of the Fathom IWS subwoofer. e Demo function is useful for showcasing the output capability of the Fathom IWS and to verify that the Fathom IWS (or multiple Fathom IWSs) are operational during system troubleshooting.
e Demo button is also used (in combination) to clear (return to at) the A.R.O. equalizer settings. To clear the A.R.O.’s settings & turn o the Calibrate light, press and hold the Demo button and then press the Defeat button. Please note that you must perform this button sequence quickly. If you hold the Demo button for more than 2 seconds without touching the Defeat button, the Demo tones will start. Should this happen, simply wait for the Demo sequence to end and try again.
Defeat Button
If “Demo” or “Calibrate” is pressed while the defeat function is active, “Defeat” is automatically canceled. No other front panel controls will alter the A.R.O. Defeat state. e Fathom IWS’s Defeat setting is stored in non-volatile memory and will not change even if power is disconnected.
e Defeat button is also used (in combination) to clear (return to at) the A.R.O. equalizer settings. To clear the A.R.O.’s settings & turn o the Calibrate light, press and hold the Demo button and then press the Defeat button. Please note that you must perform this button sequence quickly. If you hold the Demo button for more than 2 seconds without touching the Defeat button, the Demo tones will start. Should this happen, simply wait for the Demo sequence to end and try again.
Calibrate Button
During the ARO test sequence the Calibrate button’s green LED will blink quickly to alert the user to two special conditions:
1. “JL Audio Microphone NOT Connected”: If you forget to connect the mic before trying to start a Calibration you will get this alert. Press the Calibrate button once to cancel the alert, connect the A.R.O. microphone, and try again.
2. “Inappropriate Sound Level for A.R.O. Calibration”: Since the A.R.O. sequence is completely automatic, this alert likely indicates a problem with the microphone. Press the Calibrate button once to cancel the alert. Ensure that the JL Audio microphone is properly connected and try again. For further help, please refer to Troubleshooting on page 33.
Input Mode Indicators
e Input Mode indicator LEDs show the input mode, either “Master” or “Slave”, selected by the switch on the Fathom IWS’s back panel (unless the “Lights” switch is set to “o”). For further details, see page 20.
Level Mode
e two-position Level Mode switch allows you to select between the following modes: “Reference” - In this mode, the Master Level control knob has no eect on the Fathom IWS’s output level. Use this setting if you will primarily be controlling the subwoofer level via your receiver or preamplier/processor. For those of us with small children or overenthusiastic teenagers, this mode of operation will prevent direct manipulation of the Master Level. “Variable” - In this mode, the Master Level control knob determines the output level of the Fathom IWS subwoofer. is mode is also useful when level matching the Fathom IWS subwoofer to a pair of stereo speakers in a two-channel system.
Page 13 | Fathom IWS
Master Level Knob
e Master Level Knob is used to control the output level of the Fathom IWS
when the Variable Level mode is selected on the front control panel.
When rotated fully counter clockwise, the Fathom IWS’s output will be fully muted. When at the “0” or straight up position, the Variable gain level matches the Reference level setting. When turned fully clockwise, the Fathom IWS’s output level is 15 dB higher than the Reference setting.
Lights
e “Lights” selector switch allows the user to select one of three indicator light modes.
“O” turns o all of the front panel LED’s at all times.
“Dim” sets all of the front panel LEDs to a low brightness level when the
Fathom IWS is turned on.
“On” sets all of the front panel LEDs to full brightness level when the Fathom IWS is turned on.
IMPORTANT: WHEN TROUBLESHOOTING OR CALIBRATING THE A.R.O.
FEATURE, MAKE SURE THAT THE “LIGHTS” SWITCH IS SET TO “DIM” or “ON.”
LP Filter
e Low Pass (LP) Filter selector switch determines the operating mode of the Fathom IWS’s built-in low pass lter.
“O” defeats the low pass lter, completely removing this circuit from the signal path.
“12 dB” sets the roll o slope of the low pass lter to a 12 dB per octave slope (Butterworth alignment).
“24 dB” sets the roll o slope of the low pass lter to a 24 dB per octave slope (Linkwitz-Riley alignment).
e 24 dB setting more aggressively attenuates high frequencies above the LP Frequency setting (see below). If you are using the Fathom IWS’s built-in low pass lter, experiment with the LP Filter slope setting to achieve the best transition to your satellite speakers. If you prefer to use the lters and bass management features in your receiver or preamplier, defeat the on-board lter by selecting the “O” position.
If the Fathom IWS enclosure is placed close to the listening position, it may be very easy to localize the sub’s output. Experiment with the low pass lter to make the subwoofer less easy to localize.
IMPORTAN T
LP Freq
e Low Pass (LP) Frequency selector knob allows the user to choose the roll-o frequency of the Fathom IWS’s internal low pass lter. e frequency is variable between 30 Hz (full counter-clockwise) to 130 Hz (full clockwise). is knob does not aect the input signal in any way if the LP Filter switch is set to “O”. 80 Hz is a commonly used lter frequency and usually serves as a good starting point for adjustments.
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E.L.F. Trim
e Extreme Low Frequency (“e.l.f. trim”) knob allows the user to apply a certain amount of signal equalization at 23 Hertz (extremely low bass). At full counterclockwise rotation, the signal at 23 Hz is cut by 12 dB. At “0” the equalizer is set at for zero contribution to the signal. At full clockwise rotation, the signal at 28 Hz is boosted by 3 dB.
e E.L.F. Trim feature is useful for tailoring the Fathom IWS’s very low frequency output for your particular room. Adding some boost can make certain material more exciting. Using the cut function can help to compensate for room or boundary gain in the low frequencies. Room boundaries and the room’s nite (limited) size naturally cause very low frequencies to be boosted relative to other parts of the signal. As such, using the E.L.F. Trim feature to cut the lowest frequencies can help to tame “bloat” or unnatural sounding low bass in small to medium sized rooms (and can also reduce unwanted vibrations in the room or throughout the house).
e E.L.F. function aects frequencies 2 to 3 times higher than the 23 Hz specication. is frequency tapering eect may reduce the overall output of the subwoofer and require the user to increase the Main Level control aer adjusting the E.L.F. Trim.
Polarity
e Polarity switch allows the user to select between normal (0 deg) and reversed (180 deg) signal polarity. e Polarity switch will primarily aect the small frequency range around the crossover point between your subwoofer and satellite speakers.
Unlike the Phase control, which eectively adds time delay, the Polarity switch produces an instantaneous reversal of the signal’s amplitude peaks. For example, if at a given reference point a sine wave has an amplitude peak, by ipping the phase switch you instantly convert that peak into a trough or amplitude dip. Because the eect of the Polarity switch is immediate, it compliments the operation of the Phase control and cannot be replaced by it.
When placing your Fathom IWS in the room, experiment with the Polarity switch before adjusting the “Phase” control. Either position of the Polarity switch may provide a smoother transition between your Fathom IWS subwoofer and the satellite speakers. Use source material with good mid and upper bass content for evaluation.
Phase
e Phase control knob allows the user to adjust the “timing” of the subwoofer output relative to the main speakers. e Phase control will primarily aect the small frequency range around the crossover point between your subwoofer and satellite speakers. e Phase control’s labels are referenced to 80 Hz since this is the most common crossover point between satellite speakers and a subwoofer. Phase settings between 0 degrees (full counter-clockwise rotation) and 270 degrees (full clockwise rotation) are possible.
Speaker, subwoofer, and listening seat positions vary greatly in home theater installations. Since physical positioning of speakers relative to the room boundaries and each other greatly aects the perceived quality of sound output, sometimes it is helpful to delay the subwoofer output. is is exactly what occurs when you turn the Phase control beyond 0 degrees.
Once your Fathom IWS has been placed in your listening room to give you the smoothest overall sound and aer you have determined the optimum “Polarity” switch position (see preceding section), experiment with the position of the Phase control. Using familiar source material with good mid and upper bass content, adjust the Phase control and listen for better dened mid-bass and a smoother transition between the subwoofer and satellite speaker systems. If no single setting sounds better than another, leave the Phase control at 0 degrees.
Page 15 | Fathom IWS
CONNECTING YOUR Fathom IWS
Balanced Inputs
If your home-theater receiver or preamplier/processor provides balanced outputs, the Fathom IWS amp’s balanced inputs are the preferred connection. Balanced connections are used extensively in professional studios and sound reinforcement applications for a number of very good reasons. Besides ensuring proper grounding between components, balanced signal transmission is designed to cancel induced cable noise from the surrounding environment (particularly important with long cable runs). e bottom line is that your system will be far less likely to exhibit humming or other extraneous noises if you use balanced connections.
e Fathom IWS subwoofers feature individual le and right balanced input connections with XLR “combo” jacks. ese special jacks accept either a three-pin male XLR connector or a “tip-ring-sleeve” (TRS) 1/4-inch (6.3 mm) connector for compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
For systems with a mono subwoofer or “LFE” channel connection, only the jack labeled “Le or Mono” will be used. is applies to most modern multi­channel receivers and preamplier/processors. Separate le and right input jacks are provided for systems without a dedicated mono subwoofer connection. is typically applies to two-channel audio equipment.
Appropriate balanced cables are available from your JL Audio dealer and are not included with the Fathom IWS.
Technical Notes:
• Do not use the balanced inputs with unbalanced signals via adaptors. e
unbalanced inputs of the Fathom IWS are optically isolated and preferable in situations where only an unbalanced signal source is available. Balanced input impedance is 10 kohms.
• Input connectors are congured according to Audio Engineering Society
recommendations for balanced signal cables as follows:
XLR Connection
Pin 1: Shield
Pin 2: Positive
Pin 3: Negative
TRS connection:
Tip: Positive
Ring: Negative
Sleeve: Shield
e Le and Right inputs on the Fathom IWS are internally summed to a single mono channel. Since the Fathom IWS is inherently a “mono” or single channel device, you can use the Le and Right inputs for the master Fathom IWS and then distribute the summed mono signal to additional slave Fathom IWSs in the system.
IMPORTANT: IF YOUR RECEIVER OR PREAMPLIFIER/PROCESSOR DOES NOT
HAVE XLR OR 1/4-INCH TRS BALANCED OUTPUTS, PLEASE REFER TO THE
“UNBALANCED INPUTS” SECTION ON PAGE 17 FOR INPUT CONNECTION
INFORMATION. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CONNECT UNBALANCED OUTPUTS
TO THE Fathom IWS’S BALANCED INPUTS VIA ADAPTORS.
IMPORTAN T
| Fathom IWSPage 16
Unbalanced Inputs
e Fathom IWS subwoofer amp features individual le and right unbalanced RCA-type input connectors. ese are the most commonly used connectors for home audio applications and must be used if your receiver or preamplier/ processor does not provide balanced outputs. While unbalanced connections are not as noise-immune as a balanced connection, Fathom IWS subwoofers employ optical isolation on the unbalanced inputs to minimize the possibility of noise in your system.
For systems with a mono subwoofer or “LFE” channel connection, only the RCA-type jack labeled “Le or Mono” will be used. is applies to most modern multi-channel receivers and preamplier / processors. Separate le and right RCA-type input jacks are provided for systems without a dedicated mono subwoofer connection. is typically applies to two-channel audio equipment.
Technical Notes:
• When balanced outputs are not available on the signal source, you must use
the RCA-type unbalanced inputs. Fathom IWSs feature optical isolation circuitry on the unbalanced inputs to minimize the likelihood of ground loop induced noise. Unbalanced input impedance is 10 kohms.
• Connections are industry-standard for unbalanced signal cables as follows:
RCA-type connection:
Tip: Positive
Sleeve: Negative
IMPORTAN T
IMPORTANT: IF NOISE EXISTS AFTER CONNECTION, Fathom IWS AMPS
ALLOW FOR GROUNDING OR ISOLATION OF THE UNBALANCED INPUTS.
PLEASE REFER TO THE “INPUT MODE SWITCHES” SECTION ON PAGE 20 OF
THIS MANUAL FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON MINIMIZING NOISE.
Page 17 | Fathom IWS
Input Mode Switches:
Two switches are located on the rear panel to control unbalanced signal
grounding and master/slave operation.
“Grounded / Isolated” Switch
e “Grounded / Isolated” Input Mode switch aects only the unbalanced
RCA inputs and is designed to facilitate a quiet, hum-free connection to your
audio or home theater system. is feature is included to deal with the signal grounding issues oen encountered in home theater systems when several components from dierent manufacturers are interconnected.
e Fathom IWS ships with this switch in the “Isolated” mode. If, with all system components connected and turned on (but no source material playing), you hear a continuous low-frequency hum through your Fathom IWS, ip this switch to the “Grounded” position and evaluate the dierence in the noise level. Use whichever switch position provides the least hum or noise.
IMPORTANT: PLEASE NOTE THAT CHANGING ANY COMPONENT IN THE OPTIMIZED SYSTEM (RECEIVER, AMPLIFIER, DVD PLAYER, CABLE OR SATELLITE BOX, ETC.) COULD ALTER THE SIGNAL GROUNDING SCHEM E AND CAUSE HUM TO APPEAR IN YOUR PREVIOUSLY QUIET SYSTEM. IF YOU ADD OR CHANGE AN UPSTREAM COMPONENT IN YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM, YOU MAY NEED TO REVISIT THIS INPUT MODE SET TING ON THE Fathom IWS SUBWOOFER FOR OPTIMUM NOISE PERFORMANCE. CABLE & SATELLITE BOXES ARE PARTICULARLY TROUBLESOME IN THIS WAY.
IMPORTAN T
Master / Slave Switch
e Fathom IWSs are designed to easily accommodate the implementation of multiple subwoofers in your home theater system through a Master/Slave connection chain. is method allows you to utilize the signal processing features of one Fathom IWS to centrally control multiple Fathom IWSs in the room. Master/Slave functionality also makes it possible for the A.R.O. system to optimize the response of a multiple subwoofer installation.
e Fathom IWS ships with this switch in the “Master” position. If you are using a single Fathom IWS you will use the “Master” position and you need not concern yourself with this section any further.
If your installation incorporates two or more Fathom IWS ampliers, you will designate one Fathom IWS as the “Master” and all others in the system as “Slave” via the “Master/Slave” switch on the rear amplier panel of each Fathom IWS. LED’s on the front panel of the Fathom IWS are provided to indicate whether the “Master” or “Slave” mode is selected for a given subwoofer.
From the Fathom IWS operating in “Master” mode, the “Output to Slave” signal carries any signal processing selected on the Master Fathom IWS (including the Master Level setting and A.R.O. processing) to further Fathom IWSs operating in “Slave” mode. “Slave” subwoofer signal processing and level controls will be inoperable. In this mode, the user does not have to worry about level, crossover, and other settings for the slave subwoofers.
Technical Notes:
• Selecting the “Slave” position defeats all user-denable signal processing and
the master level control. Because of this, there are some special situations in which you may want to operate a single Fathom IWS in “Slave” mode. If you are utilizing outboard signal processing and level-matching controls, activating the “Slave” mode will prevent anyone from aecting system parameters with the manual controls on the Fathom IWS.
| Fathom IWSPage 18
IMPORTAN T
IMPORTANT: PLEASE REFER TO THE “SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAMS” ON PAGES 26-29 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON USING THE INPUT / OUTPUT CONNECTIONS.
“Output to Slave” Connector
If you are operating more than one Fathom IWS subwoofer in one home theater system, you will designate one Fathom IWS as the Master (see page 20), and then feed signal from it to the remaining “Slave” Fathom IWSs via this balanced XLR output. e “Output to Slave” cable can be connected to the “Le or Mono” balanced XLR input on the next Fathom IWS. When a Fathom IWS is in “Slave” Mode, its “Output to Slave” connection can be used to pass signal to further Fathom IWSs operating in “Slave” mode.
e “Output to Slave” connector is designed to be used as follows:
1) From the “Master” Fathom IWS’s “Output to Slave” connector to the rst “Slave” Fathom IWS’s “Le or Mono” XLR balanced input.
2) From the rst “Slave” Fathom IWS’s “Output to Slave” connector to the second “Slave” Fathom IWS’s “Le or Mono” XLR balanced input.
3) From the second “Slave” Fathom IWS’s “Output to Slave” connector to the third “Slave” Fathom IWS’s “Le or Mono” XLR balanced input. Etc, etc. (up to ten Fathom IWSs may be connected in this conguration). Appropriate balanced cables with XLR terminations are available from your JL Audio dealer and are not included with the Fathom IWS.
Technical Notes:
• e “Output to Slave” signal carries any signal processing selected on
the Master Fathom IWS (including the Master Level setting and A.R.O. processing) to further Fathom IWSs operating in “Slave” mode.
• From Fathom IWSs operating in “Slave” mode, the “Output to Slave”
signal is an exact, buered replica of the balanced input signal, making this method of signal distribution preferable to using Y-adapters or splitters.
• Use only shielded, connection cables with high quality
XLR connectors for Master/Slave connection. Never use unbalanced cables with adaptors.
IEC-Style AC Connector
e IEC-style AC cord receptacle receives the heavy-gauge, 6 . (1.8 m) long, power cord included with your Fathom IWS subwoofer. Your Fathom IWS should only be powered from a 120 V AC, 60 Hz outlet. Do not use any AC power cord other than the one supplied with the Fathom IWS.
e Fathom IWS subwoofer is a very powerful device and can draw a lot of current. If too many components are connected with a Fathom IWS subwoofer to one electrical outlet, you risk tripping a household circuit breaker during very demanding program material. If this happens, split the Fathom IWS and other components between two AC electrical circuits. If possible, for maximum performance, dedicate an AC circuit to each Fathom IWS.
Page 19 | Fathom IWS
PROCESSOR (BALANCED OUTPUTS) RECEIVER / PROCESSOR (UNBALANCED OUTPUTS)
OUTPUTS
OR
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)
FRONT
FRONT
PRE OUT
REAR CENTER
L
REAR
R
SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAM 1: One Fathom IWS to Home Theater Receiver or Home Theater Preamp/Processor
Most home theater receivers and
SUB
preamp/processors provide a single (mono) subwoofer output. When connecting a mono subwoofer output to your Fathom IWS, you will only use the Fathom IWS’s “Le or Mono” input.
Two connection types are available for connecting the Fathom IWS to your home theater system: balanced (XLR or 1/4-inch TRS connector) and unbalanced (RCA-type connector). Balanced connections provide superior noise rejection and ensure proper grounding between components. If your receiver or processor has balanced outputs, we highly recommend that you use them.
In the connection diagram at le, balanced connections are shown as solid lines, unbalanced connections are shown dotted. You will only use one of these input connection methods (not both).
WARNING! TURN OFF THE Fathom IWS AND ALL OTHER EQUIPMENT IN THE SYSTEM BEFORE MAKING OR CHANGING ANY CONNECTIONS!
WARNING
| Fathom IWSPage 20
SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAM 2:
PROCESSOR (BALANCED OUTPUTS) RECEIVER / PROCESSOR (UNBALANCED OUTPUTS)
Multiple Fathom IWSs to Home Theater Receiver or Home Theater Preamp/Processor
To greatly simplify using multiple subwoofers in a single home theater system, Fathom IWSs incorporate a “Master/Slave” signal distribution system. is allows control of all the Fathom IWSs in a system from a single “Master” unit.
First, you will select one of the Fathom IWS subwoofers as the “Master” via its upper “Input Mode” switch. Generally, you will designate the Fathom IWS closest to the receiver/preamp as the master. In some cases; for example, when the control panel of certain units is dicult to access, you may prefer to designate the one which is easiest to access as the master.
Two connection types are available for connecting the master Fathom IWS to your home theater system: balanced (XLR or 1/4-inch TRS connector) and unbalanced (RCA-type connector). Balanced connections provide superior noise rejection and ensure proper grounding between components. If your receiver or processor has balanced outputs, we highly recommend that you use them to connect to the Fathom IWS designated as the master.
In the connection diagram at right, balanced connections are shown as solid lines, unbalanced connections are shown dotted. You will only use one of these input connection methods for the Fathom IWS designated as the master (not both).
e remaining Fathom IWSs in the system will be congured as “Slave” units via their “Input Mode” switches. Using balanced XLR cables, you will connect the master Fathom IWS’s “Output to Slave” to the “Le or Mono” balanced input of the rst slave Fathom IWS. at slave unit’s “Output to Slave” connector will feed the “Le or Mono” input of the next slave unit via another balanced XLR cable. Subsequent slave units will be connected in the same manner.
OUTPUTS
OR
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (SLAVE)
TO ADDITIONAL FATHOMS
(IF APPLICABLE)
FRONT
FRONT
PRE OUT
REAR CENTER
L
REAR
R
SUB
IMPORTAN T
Connections between the “Master” and “Slave” Fathom IWSs and between “Slave” Fathom IWSs are via balanced XLR cables ONLY.
WARNING
WARNING! TURN OFF THE Fathom IWS(S) AND ALL OTHER EQUIPMENT IN THE SYSTEM BEFORE MAKING OR CHANGING ANY CONNECTIONS!
Page 21 | Fathom IWS
STEREO ACTIVE CROSSOVER (BALANCED OUTPUTS)
LOW OUT
(SUB OUT)
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)
STEREO ACTIVE CROSSOVER (UNBALANCED OUTPUTS)
LOW OUT
(SUB OUT)
OR
SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAM 3: One Fathom IWS in Mono to Two-Channel Audio System
When connecting a Fathom IWS (or
RIGHTLEFT
multiple Fathom IWSs) in mono to a two­channel audio system you will use both the “Le or Mono” and the “Right” inputs. Summing circuitry in the Fathom IWS’s input section will sum the stereo signals to mono.
We strongly recommend that you use a high-quality active crossover to divide your preamplier’s signals prior to connection to the Fathom IWS and to the amplier driving your main speakers. is will allow you to lter low frequencies out of the signals driving the main speakers, resulting in better performance.
If you are not using an active crossover and are comfortable running your main speakers full-range, you can split your preamplier’s output signals using appropriate Y-connectors in place of the active crossover shown in the diagram.
Two connection types are available for connecting the Fathom IWS to your two-channel audio system: balanced (XLR or 1/4-inch TRS connector) and unbalanced (RCA-type connector). Balanced connections provide superior noise rejection and ensure proper grounding between components. If your preamplier or active crossover oers balanced outputs, we highly recommend that you use them.
In the connection diagram at le, balanced connections are shown as solid lines, unbalanced connections are shown dotted. You will only use one of these input connection methods (not both).
NOTE: If desired, additional Fathom IWSs can be connected in “Slave” mode to the Fathom IWS connected as shown on this diagram. See “Connection Diagram 2” on page 23 for slave connection explanation.
WARNING! TURN OFF THE Fathom IWS AND ALL OTHER EQUIPMENT IN THE SYSTEM BEFORE MAKING OR CHANGING ANY CONNECTIONS!
WARNING
| Fathom IWSPage 22
SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAM 4: Two Fathom IWSs in Stereo to Two-Channel Audio System
When connecting two Fathom IWSs in stereo to a two-channel audio system you will only use the “Le or Mono” inputs of each Fathom IWS. e “Input Mode” switch on each Fathom IWS will be set in the “Master” position.
We strongly recommend that you use a high-quality active crossover to divide your preamplier’s signals prior to connection to the Fathom IWS and to the amplier driving your main speakers. is will allow you to lter low frequencies out of the signals driving the main speakers, resulting in better performance.
If you are not using an active crossover and are comfortable running your main speakers full-range, you can split your preamplier’s output signals using appropriate Y-connectors in place of the active crossover shown in the diagram.
Two connection types are available for connecting the Fathom IWSs to your two-channel audio system: balanced (XLR or 1/4-inch TRS connector) and unbalanced (RCA-type connector). Balanced connections provide superior noise rejection and ensure proper grounding between components. If your preamplier or active crossover oers balanced outputs, we highly recommend that you use them.
In the connection diagram at right, balanced connections are shown as solid lines, unbalanced connections are shown dotted. You will only use one of these input connection methods (not both).
NOTE: If desired, additional Fathom IWSs can be connected in “Slave” mode to each Fathom IWS connected as shown on this diagram. See “Connection Diagram 2” on page 23 for slave connection explanation.
STEREO ACTIVE CROSSOVER (BALANCED OUTPUTS) STEREO ACTIVE CROSSOVER (UNBALANCED OUTPUTS)
LOW OUT
(SUB OUT)
OR
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)
FATHOM REAR CONTROLS (MASTER)
LOW OUT
(SUB OUT)
RIGHT LEFT
WARNING
WARNING! TURN OFF THE Fathom IWS(S) AND ALL OTHER EQUIPMENT IN THE SYSTEM BEFORE MAKING OR CHANGING ANY CONNECTIONS!
Page 23 | Fathom IWS
RECOMMENDED SETUP PROCEDURES
1) Preparation for Setup Process: ..................................... 24-25
2) Apply A.R.O: .................................................... 26-27
3) Level Setting: ....................................................... 27
4) Polarity/Phase Adjustment: ........................................... 28
5) Adjust E.L.F. Trim: .................................................. 28
PREPARATION FOR SETUP PROCESS:
Please conrm the following system settings before beginning the setup process. is will ensure a neutral starting point and an eective setup of your subwoofer system.
On your Home Theater Receiver or Preamp/Processor:
Before beginning setup of your Fathom IWS subwoofer system we recommend that you set your receiver or preamp/processor as follows:
1. Speaker Size
In the speaker setup menu of your receiver or preamp/processor, set up all of your high-frequency speakers as “small” with a crossover point of 80 Hz. is will send ALL bass to the Fathom IWS(s).
2. Speaker Distance
In the speaker setup menu, properly set all speaker distances to the primary listening seat, including the subwoofer’s distance. Use a tape measure to determine these distances (time coherence is important.) If multiple Fathom IWSs are being used, average their distances to the primary listening seat and use that number to set the subwoofer distance.
3. Subwoofer Level
Set the subwoofer level in the receiver or preamp/processor “0” or its middle position.
4. Tone Controls / Equalizers
Set all tone controls to “0” and defeat all equalizer features.
On your Active Crossover or Bass Management Processor:
If you are using an active crossover or bass-management processor, we recommend that you set it as follows before beginning setup of your Fathom IWS subwoofer system (please turn o all Fathom IWSs in the system prior to making these adjustments):
1. Low-Pass Filter Frequency
Select a low-pass lter frequency of 80 Hz (12dB/octave slope)
2. High-Pass Filter Frequency
Select a high-pass lter frequency of 80 Hz (12dB/octave slope)
3. Low-Pass (Subwoofer) Output Level
Set the subwoofer output level to “0” or its middle position.
| Fathom IWSPage 24
On the Fathom IWS’s Front Panel:
Please turn o the home theater receiver or preamp/processor to make these adjustm ents.
1. “Power” Switch Flip each Fathom IWS’s “Power” switch to the “On” position.
2. “Lights” Switch Flip each Fathom IWS’s “Lights” switch to the “On” position. If you don’t see any lights on the front panel, you may have forgotten to plug the Fathom IWS in or there may be a problem with the electrical circuit.
3. “Input Mode” Indicator Lights If you are using a single Fathom IWS, conrm that its “Input Mode” indicator light is on the “Master” position. If not, you will need to access the “Input Mode” switch on the rear panel of the Fathom IWS. If you are using multiple Fathom IWSs in a Master/Slave conguration, conrm that the unit connected directly to your receiver or preamp/processor is indicating “Master” on its “Input Mode” lights and that all other units are indicating “Slave” on their “Input Mode” lights. If not, you will need to access the “Input Mode” switches on the rear panels of the Fathom IWSs.
3. “Level Mode” Switch Flip the master Fathom IWS’s “Level Mode” switch to the “REF” position.
4. “LP Filter” Switch If your home theater receiver/processor is handling bass management (speakers set on “small”) or if you are using an outboard crossover/bass­management processor, ip the master Fathom IWS’s “LP Filter” switch to “OFF.” If not, select the “12 dB” position.
5. “LP Freq. (Hz)” Knob Rotate the “LP Freq.” knob to the “80 Hz” position.
6. “e.l.f. trim (dB)” Knob Rotate the “e.l.f. trim” knob to “0”
7. “Polarity” Switch
Flip the “Polarity” switch to “0”.
8. “phase (deg.)” Knob Rotate the “phase” knob to “0” degrees
9. A.R.O. Defeat Switch
Press the A.R.O. defeat switch so that the red light in the switch remains lit.
Page 25 | Fathom IWS
RECOMMENDED SETUP PROCEDURES (continued)
Subwoofer System Setup:
Once you have set the controls on your home theater receiver or preamp/ processor and on your Fathom IWS(s) to the settings recommended on pages 24-25, you are ready to begin setting up your Fathom IWS for optimum performance.
In some systems, the Fathom IWS amplier will be installed away from the listening environment. For these cases, the ARO microphone cable will not be long enough to perform the Calibration.
To facilitate Calibration with the Fathom IWS amplier in the listening room, the Fathom IWS subwoofer enclosure includes front-mounted speaker terminals (standard banana jacks - see gure). ese terminals will allow the user to temporarily connect the amplier to the enclosure for Calibration, even aer the enclosure is permanently installed in the wall cavity.
If your system has a Master / Slave conguration, you only need to have the amplier designated as Master located in the listening room. You must run a temporary XLR cable to the remotely located Slave unit(s).
1) Applying Automatic Room Optimization (A.R.O.)
You are now ready to apply the power of JL Audio’s exclusive Automatic Room Optimization system. is system will measure the response of the subwoofer at your primary listening seat and apply a powerful equalizer to tame the peaks caused by room modes, resulting in smoother, more accurate bass performance. If you are using multiple Fathom IWSs in a master/slave conguration, you will only need to address the unit designated as “Master” to perform A.R.O. calibration for the entire subwoofer system. Note that all front-panel signal processing is defeated during A.R.O. calibration, regardless of the knob settings. Normal operation is restored once calibration is complete.
IMPORTAN T
a) Set the Main Power switch to the “ON” position and be sure the Fathom IWS’s
indicator lights are switched “ON” via the “Lights” switch.
b) Remove the calibration microphone from its protective pouch and connect its
cable to the mini-XLR jack on the Fathom IWS’s front control panel.
NOTE: A.R.O. Calibration is only possible when the included JL Audio test microphone is plugged in to the Fathom IWS front panel. e “Calibrate” feature is disabled with no microphone plugged in to prevent accidental loss of settings.
c) Connect the microphone to the other end of the mic cable and temporarily place
the mic in the primary listening seat. If you have a microphone stand, you can place the microphone at head height and position in the primary listening seat.
d) On the Fathom IWS’s control panel, press the “Calibrate” button. e green light
on the “Calibrate” button will ash slowly, indicating that calibration will begin in 5 seconds.
| Fathom IWSPage 26
IMPORTAN T
IMPORTANT! MAKE SURE THE ROOM IS QUIET DURING A.R.O. CALIBRATION! TURN OFF ANY NOISY APPLIANCES NEAR THE LISTENING ROOM (DISHWASHERS, WASHING MACHINES, ETC.)
IT IS PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT TO TURN OFF AIR CONDITIONERS OR HEAT PUMPS DURING CALIBRATION. THESE FORCED-AIR-TYPE HVAC SYSTEMS CAN CREATE MODERATE LEVELS OF 15 – 20 HZ NOISE THAT MAY INTERFERE WITH CALIBRATION.
e) Within 5 seconds of pressing the “Calibrate” button, return to your primary
listening seat and hold the microphone in your normal, seated head position at
the approximate height of your ears.
f) A noise sequence will be played through the Fathom IWS that sounds like hashy
static (like when your old FM radio was between stations). e sequence will last approximately 3 minutes. During this process, the A.R.O. system is taking a frequency response measurement at your seat and correcting the problems it nds. e A.R.O. system also compensates for any before & aer level dierences so that your subwoofer will have a similar perceived loudness aer the calibration process. When A.R.O. is nished calibrating, the “Calibrate” button will light and stay on, indicating a successful calibration.
Should you wish to run a new calibration, simply repeat the steps above.
To clear the A.R.O.’s settings (i.e., return them to at) & turn o the
Calibrate light, press and hold the Demo button and then press the Defeat button. Please note that you must perform this button sequence quickly. If
you hold the Demo button for more than 2 seconds without touching the Defeat button, the Demo tones will start. Should this happen, simply wait for the Demo sequence to end and try again. You can perform a new calibration by following the normal procedure outlined above.
2) Level Setting
Using familiar music or movie material with deep bass content, adjust the subwoofer level to blend with the other speakers using your receiver or preamp / processor’s subwoofer level control. is method is more immune to tampering than using the Fathom IWS’s “Master Level” knob (think toddlers or curious visitors).
In the unlikely event that the subwoofer level control in your receiver or preamp/processor cannot be turned up enough to level match the Fathom IWS, return that control to “0”. en, ip the Fathom IWS’s “Level Mode” switch to “Variable” and with “0” as your reference point (REF mode gain and Variable “0” gain are identical) use the “Master Level” control to level match the subwoofer with the other speakers. MAKE NOTE OF THIS SETTING FOR FUTURE USE.
For more detailed information on your Fathom IWS’s level setting controls, please refer to the “Level Mode” and “Master Level” sections on pages 15 - 16 of this manual.
Page 27 | Fathom IWS
3) Polarity and Phase Adjustment
It is oen helpful to have a second person operating these controls so that you
can easily hear the changes from the primary listening seat.
Listening to familiar source material (preferably music with good upper bass and midbass response), ip the “Polarity” switch from “0” to “180” and listen for dierences. e correct setting will sound most natural with the best upper bass punch and articulation. If both sound similar, choose “0”.
Once Polarity is set, use the same music material to audition dierent “Phase” control settings and choose the one that further enhances the upper and midbass response. If you can’t hear a dierence, set the control to “0.”
4) Extreme Low Frequency (e.l.f.) Trim
Use the “e.l.f. trim” control to adjust the extreme low bass extension of the Fathom IWS. is control allows -12 dB of cut or +3 dB of boost at 28 Hertz and is particularly useful when using a Fathom IWS (or two) in a small to medium sized home theater. Since smaller enclosed spaces help to boost the level of the lowest bass frequencies, smaller theaters can be overwhelmed by the strong low-bass output of the Fathom IWS subwoofer. is can create a “thick” or “bloated” character in the lower bass region. Turning down the “e.l.f. trim” knob cuts the extreme low bass level and alleviates this condition. Feel free to experiment and listen to a variety of demanding material until you nd the best match for your room and your tastes.
Your Fathom IWS is now optimized for maximum bass performance at your listening seat. Congratulations!
IMPORTANT! WRITE DOWN ALL SETTINGS PERFORMED IN STEPS 2-4 FOR
FUTURE REFERENCE.
IMPORTANT! IF YOU MOVE YOUR PRIMARY LISTENING SEAT IN THE
FUTURE, YOU WILL NEED TO RUN A.R.O. AGAIN. ANY PARTICULAR
CALIBRATION IS UNIQUE TO THAT PARTICULAR SUBWOOFER POSITION
AND LISTENING SEAT POSITION COMBINATION. SIMPLY FOLLOW THE
STEPS ABOVE TO CREATE A NEW CALIBRATION CURVE.
IMPORTAN T
IMPORTAN T
| Fathom IWSPage 28
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the Fathom IWS magnetically shielded?
Fathom IWS subwoofers are not magnetically shielded. To avoid magnetic distortion with certain television types, place the Fathom IWS at least 3-4 feet (1
- 1.5m) from your screen.
Will my electric bill be high if I leave the Fathom IWS in “Auto” mode?
When in “Auto” mode, the Fathom IWS amplier is only powered up when a signicant signal is detected on the inputs. When powered down, only “housekeeping” circuits remain on, which draw negligible amounts of power from the wall (less than 10 watts).
Should I unplug my subwoofer during a thunderstorm or extended absence?
YES. You should unplug your Fathom IWS during (or before) thunderstorms. is will prevent any possible damage from voltage spikes due to lightning. In these conditions, it’s a good idea to unplug all of your audio / video components. If you are going to be away from home for several days, it is also a good idea to unplug your home theater components to prevent damage from unexpected storms or power line conditions.
Page 29 | Fathom IWS
TROUBLESHOOTING
No sound from subwoofer.
1. Verify that Fathom IWS amp is plugged in, turned “ON” & that
front panel lights are “ON”. If the Fathom IWS amp will not power up, check the circuit breaker that feeds its outlet.
2. Test subwoofer using DEMO button on front panel of amp– if sub emits demo
tones the subwoofer’s internal circuitry is ne and an input problem is likely. Check the input cable connections at the Fathom IWS amp and at the receiver/preamp/ processor.
3. Verify that your receiver’s subwoofer settings have not changed.
4. If your other speakers play, but the Fathom IWS does not, try changing the cable
that connects the Fathom IWS to the system.
5. If the problem persists, call your dealer or JL Audio Technical Support
for assistance.
e bass level has changed.
1. Make sure your level settings (on the Fathom IWS amp and in your receiver/
preamp/processor) have not changed.
2. If you are using the Fathom IWS’s “Master Level” knob to set the subwoofer level,
conrm that the “Level Mode” switch is set to “Variable”.
3. Verify the position of the ELF Trim knob.
Hums or other unusual noises from your Fathom IWS
1. See Input Mode discussion on page 20 of this manual, especially if any upstream
components, cables, etc., have recently changed.
2. Turn o the Fathom IWS, disconnect all its input and output signal cables, turn the
Fathom IWS back on. If the noise disappears, the noise is being caused elsewhere in your system - reconnect cables one at a time to help locate the problem.
Bass sounds “muddy” or “too heavy”.
1. Try decreasing the 23 Hertz level using the ELF Trim control. Muddy bass can
sometimes be caused by too much low frequency output in a moderately sized room.
2. Decrease the overall subwoofer level.
3. Verify your receiver’s subwoofer settings.
4. Try a dierent main listening seat location. Changing your seating location can
have a HUGE eect on how your system sounds. See the placement discussion on pages 6-10 of this manual.
A.R.O. Calibration attempt gives fast blinking Calibrate light
1. Be sure that the included JL Audio Microphone is properly plugged into the
front panel jack. Calibration will ONLY proceed with the JL Audio microphone connected. Connecting any other mic will cause the calibration to fail.
2. If calibration fails with the JL Audio microphone properly connected, try running
calibration again with the microphone placed ~ 6 feet away from the Fathom IWS speaker enclosure. If calibration fails again, the microphone or microphone cable is bad and will need to be replaced. Contact JL Audio Customer Service.
| Fathom IWSPage 30
LIMITED WARRANTY / SERVICE INFORMATION
JL AUDIO warrants this product to be free of defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of three (3) years from the original date of purchase.
Damage caused by the following is not covered under warranty: accident, misuse, abuse, product modication or neglect, failure to follow installation instructions, unauthorized repair attempts, misrepresentations by the seller. is warranty does not cover incidental or consequential damages and does not cover the cost of removing or reinstalling the unit(s) or shipping the unit(s) to JL Audio for service. Cosmetic damage due to accident or normal wear and tear is not covered under warranty.
is warranty is not transferable and applies only to the original purchaser of the product from an authorized JL AUDIO dealer. Warranty is voided if the factory-applied product serial number is removed or defaced.
Should service be necessary under this warranty for any reason due to manufacturing defect or malfunction, JL AUDIO will, at its discretion, repair or replace the defective product with new or remanufactured product at no charge.
Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to the period of the express warranty as provided herein beginning with the date of the original purchase at retail, and no warranties, whether express or implied, shall apply to this product thereaer. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, therefore these exclusions may not apply to you. is warranty gives you specic legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
WARNING
WARNING: THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS NO USERSERVICEABLE PARTS.
PRODUC T IN WHICH DISASSEMBLY, REPAIR AND/OR MODIFICATION HA S
BEEN ATTEMPTED BY UNAUTHORIZED PARTIES WILL NOT BE COVERED
UNDER WARRANTY.
If you need service on your JL AUDIO product:
All warranty returns should be sent to JL AUDIO freight prepaid through an authorized JL AUDIO dealer and must be accompanied by proof of purchase (a copy of the original sales receipt.) Direct returns from consumers or non­authorized dealers will be refused unless specically authorized by JL AUDIO with a valid return authorization number. Warranty expiration on products returned without proof of purchase will be determined from the manufacturing date code. Coverage may be invalidated as this date is previous to purchase date. Return only defective components. Non-defective items received will be returned freight-collect. Customer is responsible for shipping charges and insurance in sending the product to JL AUDIO. Freight damage on returns is not covered under warranty. Always include proof of purchase (sales receipt).
For Service Information in the U.S.A. please call:
JL Audio customer service: (954) 443-1100 during normal business hours (Eastern Time)
JL Audio, Inc • 10369 North Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL 33025
International Warranties: Products purchased outside the United States of America are covered only by that country’s distributor and not by JL Audio, Inc.
Page 31 | Fathom IWS
FE ATURES
Unbalanced Inputs:
Stereo or Mono (two RCA jacks - Input Impedance of 10k Ohms)
Balanced Inputs: Stereo or Mono (two female XLR jacks - Input Impedance of 10k Ohms)
Output To Slave: Balanced (one male XLR jack)
Input Modes: Master or Slave
Level Modes: Reference (xed gain) or Variable from full mute to +15dB over reference gain
Power Modes: O, On or Automatic Signal-Sensing
Light Modes: O, On or Dim
Low Pass Filter Mode: O, 12 dB per octave or 24 dB per octave
Low Pass Filter Cuto Frequency: Variable from 30 Hz – 130 Hz
Polarity: 0 or 180 degrees
Phase: Variable from 0 – 270 degrees
E.L.F. Trim: Variable from –12 dB to +3 dB at 23 Hz
Automatic Room Optimization (A.R.O.) with included laboratory-grade calibration microphone, defeatable.
TOP VIEW
BACK PANEL
FRONT PANEL
Specifications
Enclosure Type: Single Sealed Enclosu re Two Sealed Enclosures
Driver(s):
Frequency Response (anechoic):
Effective Piston Area:
Effective Displacement:
Amplifier Power: 1000 watts RMS sh ort-term 2000 wat ts RMS short-term
Grille Dimensions: (H) Height x (W) Width x (D) Depth
Wall Opening Dimensions: (W) Width x (H) Height
Amplifier Dimensions: (H) Height x (W) Width x (D) Depth
Height Dime nsions DO NOT include f eet.
Amplifier Net Weight: 35 lbs. (15.9 kg) 43 lbs. (19.5 kg)
Cabinet Finish:
Grille Finish:
IWS-SYS-1
Fathom IWS home subwoofer
13.5-inch (nominal diameter)
26 Hz - 101 Hz (+/- 1.5 dB)
-3dB at 25 Hz / 112 Hz
-10dB at 22 Hz / 150 Hz
98.26 sq. i n. / 0.0634 sq. m. 196.51 sq. in. / 0.1268 sq. m.
147. 3 cu. in. (2.41 liters) 294.6 cu. in . (4.82 liters)
17. 25 inches x 20 inches
14.5 inches x 17.25 inches
3.5 in. x 17.4 in. x 17.9 in.
89 mm x 442 mm x 455 mm
Black Texture- Coated Black Texture- Coated
White (paintabl e)
IWS-SYS-2
Fathom IWS home subwoofer
13.5-inch (nominal diameter) in each of tw o enclosures
26 Hz - 101 Hz (+/- 1.5 dB)
-3dB at 25 Hz / 112 Hz
-10dB at 22 Hz / 150 Hz
438 mm x 508 mm
368 mm x 438 mm
“JL Audio”, “Fathom IWS” and the JL Au dio logo are registered t rademarks of JL Audi o, Inc., “Ahead of the Curve” is a tr ademark of JL Audio, Inc. D ue to continuous product development, all specifications are subject to change without notice.
Printed in USA • ©2010 JL Audio, Inc. • U.S. PATENTS: #5,734,734 #5,949,898 #6,118,884 #6,229,902 #6,243,479 #6,294,959 #6,501,844 #6,496,590 #6,441,685 #5,687,247 #6,219,431 #6,625,292 #D472,891 #D480,709 Other U.S. & Foreign patents pending. For more detailed information please visit us online at www.jlaudio.com.
10369 North Commerce Parkway • Miramar, Florida • 33025 • USA
SKU-011310-04-2010
WALL OPENING
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