JL Audio JX250/1, JX500/1D, JX1000/1D Owners Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

Monoblock Subwoofer Amplifiers

Thank you for purchasing a JL Audio amplifier for

your automotive sound system.

Your amplifier has been designed and manufactured to exacting

standards in order to ensure years of musical enjoyment in your vehicle.

For maximum performance, we highly recommend that you have

your new amplifier installed by an authorized JL Audio dealer. Your

authorized dealer has the training, expertise and installation equipment

to ensure optimum performance from this product. Should you

decide to install the amplifier yourself, please take the time

to read this manual thoroughly so as to familiarize yourself

with its installation requirements and setup procedures.

If you have any questions regarding the instructions in this

manual or any aspect of your amplifier’s operation, please contact your

authorized JL Audio dealer for assistance. If you need further assistance,

please call our Technical Support Department

at [phone] during business hours.

IMPORTANT!

!

PROTECT YOUR HEARING!

We value you as a long-term customer. For
that reason, we urge you to practice restraint in
the operation of this product so as not to damage
your hearing and that of others in your vehicle.
Studies have shown that continuous exposure to
high sound pressure levels can lead to permanent
(irreparable) hearing loss. This and all other
high-power amplifiers are capable of producing
such high sound pressure levels when connected

to a speaker system. Please limit your continuous

exposure to high volume levels.

While driving, operate your audio system in
a manner that still allows you to hear necessary
noises to operate your vehicle safely (horns,
sirens, etc.).

Chassis Ground

Connector

(pg. 5)

Power Status

Indicator

(pg. 11)

+12 V Power

Connector

(pg. 5)

Protection Status

Indicator

(pg. 11)

Remote Turn-On

Connector

(pg. 6)

Filter

Frequency Selector

(pg. 8)

Input Sensitivity

Control

(pg. 7)

SERIAL NUMBER

In the event that your amplifier requires
service or is ever stolen, you will need to
have a record of the product’s serial number.

Please take the time to enter that number in

the space provided below. The serial number
can be found on the bottom panel of the
amplifier and on the amplifier packaging.

Serial Number:

Speaker Outputs

(pg. 10)

High-Level

Input Jack

(pg. 6,7)

Preamp Input Jacks

Preamp Output Jacks

Left & Right

(pg. 6)

Left & Right

(pg. 8)

Remote

Level Control

(pg. 9)

Bass Boost

Control

(pg. 9)

INSTALLATION APPLICATIONS

This amplifier is designed for operation in
vehicles with 12V, negative-ground electrical
systems. Use of this product in vehicles with
positive ground and/or voltages other than 12V
may result in damage to the product and will void
the warra nty.

This product is not certified or approved for
use in aircraft. Do not attempt to “bridge” the
outputs of this amplifier with the outputs of a
second amplifier, including an identical one.

PLANNING YOUR INSTALLATION

It is important that you take the time to read
this manual and that you plan out your
installation carefully. The following are some
considerations that you must take into account
when planning your installation.

Cooling Efficiency Considerations:

The outer shell of your JL Audio amplifier is
designed to remove heat from the amplifier
circuitry. For optimum cooling performance,
this outer shell should be exposed to as
large a volume of air as possible. Enclosing
the amplifier in a small, poorly ventilated
chamber can lead to excessive heat build-up
and degraded performance. If an installation
calls for an enclosure around the amplifier,
we recommend that this enclosure be
ventilated with the aid of a fan. In normal
applications, fan-cooling is not necessary.

Mounting the amplifier upside down is
strongly discouraged.

If mounting the amplifier under a seat,
make sure there is at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of
space above the amplifier’s outer shell to permit
proper cooling.

Safety Considerations:

Your amplifier needs to be installed in a dry,
well-ventilated environment and in a manner
which does not interfere with your vehicle’s safety
equipment (air bags, seat belt systems, ABS brake
systems, etc.). You should also take the time to
securely mount the amplifier using appropriate
hardware so that it does not come loose in the
event of a collision or a sudden jolt to the vehicle.

Stupid Mistakes to Avoid:

• Check before drilling any holes in your vehicle

to make sure that you will not be drilling
through a gas tank, brake line, wiring harness or
other vital vehicle system.

• Do not run system wiring outside or underneath

the vehicle. This is an extremely dangerous
practice which can result in severe damage to
your vehicle and person.

• Protect all system wires from sharp metal

edges and wear by carefully routing them,
tying them down and using grommets and
loom where appropriate.

• Do not mount the amplifier in the engine

compartment, under the vehicle, on the roof
or in any other area that will expose the
amplifier circuitry to the elements.

ENGLISH

2 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 3

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

JL Audio JX monoblock subwoofer
amplifiers are specifically designed to drive
subwoofers. Their frequency response is
limited to the range below 150 Hz., making
them unsuitable for driving midrange speakers
or tweeters. For detailed specifications,
please refer to Appendix B (page 13).

TYPICAL INSTALLATION SEQUENCE

The following represents the sequence
for a typical amplifier installation, using an
aftermarket source unit or OEM Interface
product. Additional steps and different
procedures may be required in some applications.
If you have any questions, please contact your
authorized JL Audio dealer for assistance.

1) Disconnect the negative battery post

connection and secure the disconnected cable
to prevent accidental re-connection during
installation. This step is not optional!

2) Run power wire from the battery location

to the amplifier mounting location,
taking care to route it in such a way
that it will not be damaged and will not
interfere with vehicle operation. See
next page for appropriate wire size.

3) Connect power wire to the positive battery

post. Fuse the wire with an appropriate fuse
block (and connectors) within 18 inches (45
cm) wire length of the positive battery post.
This fuse is essential to protect the vehicle.
Do not install the fuse until the power wire
has been connected to the amplifier.

4) Run signal cables (RCA cables) and remote

turn-on wire from the source unit to the
amplifier mounting location.

5) Run speaker wire from the speaker systems

to the amplifier mounting location.

6) Find a good, solid metal grounding point

close to the amplifier and connect the
negative power wire to it using appropriate
hardware. Use the same size power wire
used for the +12V connection, no longer
than 36 inches (90 cm) from the amplifier's
ground (GND) connector to the ground
connection point. In some vehicles, it may
be necessary to upgrade the battery ground
wire. (See page 5 for important notice).

7) Securely mount the amplifier using
appropriate hardware.

8) Connect the positive and negative power
wires to the amplifier.

9) Connect the remote turn-on wire
to the amplifier.

10) Connect the input cables
to the amplifier.

11) Connect the speaker wires to the amplifier.

12) Carefully review the amplifier’s control

settings to make sure that they are set
according to the needs of the system.

13) Install power wire fuse (see next page for
correct value) and reconnect the negative
battery post terminal.

14) Turn on the source unit at a low level
to double-check that the amplifier is
configured correctly. Resist the temptation to
crank it up until you have verified the control
settings.

15) Make necessary adjustments to the input
sensitivity controls to obtain the right
overall output and the desired balance
in the system. See Appendix A (page 12)
for the recommended input sensitivity
setting method.

16) Enjoy the fruits of your labor with your
favorite music.

POWER CONNECTIONS

Before installing the amplifier, disconnect the
negative (ground) wire from the vehicle’s battery.
This will prevent accidental damage to the system,
the vehicle and your person during installation.

The amplifier’s “+12 VDC” (positive) and
“Ground” (ground) connections are designed to
accept up to 4 AWG power wire.

Minimum Power / Ground

Wire Size Requirements:

JX250/1: 8 AWG

JX500/1D: 4 AWG

JX1000/1D: 4 AWG

Note: Smaller AWG numbers mean bigger wire
and vice-versa (1/0 AWG is the largest, 2 AWG is
smaller, then 4 AWG, then 8 AWG, etc.).

The above wire gauge recommendations
assume no other amplifiers are connected
to the same wire. Use larger wire with
a fused distribution block (or separate
wires) for multiple amplifiers.

If you are installing this amplifier with other
amplifiers and wish to use a single main power
wire, use 2 AWG or 1/0 AWG main power wire
(depending on the overall current demands of
all the amplifiers in the system). This 2 AWG
or 1/0 AWG power wire should terminate into a
fused distribution block mounted as close to the
amplifiers as possible and should connect to the
JX monoblock with 4 AWG power wire (8 AWG is
sufficient for the JX250/1 only).

To connect the power and ground wires
to the amplifier, strip 1/2-inch (12 mm) of
insulation from each wire and insert the
bare wire into the appropriate terminal block
positions on the JX250/1. Use the supplied

2.5 mm hex wrench to secure the wire via
the screw on the top of each terminal.

The “Ground” connection should be made
using 4 AWG wire (8 AWG is sufficient for
JX250/1 only) and should be kept as short as
possible, while accessing a solid piece of sheet
metal in the vehicle. The surface of the sheet
metal should be sanded at the contact point
to create a clean, metal-to-metal connection
between the chassis and the termination of the
ground wire. The use of a #10 sheet metal screw
and star washer to lock down the connection is
advisable. Alternatively, you can use a specialized
grounding lug, such as the JL Audio XB-MGLU.
Any wires run through metal barriers (such
as firewalls), must be protected with a high
quality insulating grommet to prevent damage
to the insulation of the wire. Failure to do so
may result in a dangerous short circuit.

IMPORTANT!

!

Many vehicles employ small (10 AWG -
6 AWG) wire to ground the battery to the
vehicle chassis and to connect the alternator’s
positive connection to the battery. To prevent
voltage drops, these wires should be upgraded
to 4 AWG when installing amplifier systems
with main fuse ratings above 60A.

FUSE REQUIREMENTS

JX250/1: 30A (AGU or MAXI®)

JX500/1D: 50A (AGU or MAXI®)

JX1000/1D: 80A (AGU, ANL or MAXI®)

An appropriate fuse at the main power wire(s)
to the amplifier(s) is vital for vehicle safety! This
fuse must be installed within 18 inches (45 cm)
of the positive battery post connection. If the JX
monoblock is the only device connected to this
main wire, use the corresponding fuse value listed
above (no other fuse is required in this situation).

When running multiple devices from one
main power wire, the main fuse value and rating
of the main power wire must be high enough
for all of the equipment being run from it. Use a
fused distribution block to split the main power
wire feed to each device, with appropriate fusing
and power wire for each device.

ENGLISH

4 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 5

REMOTE TURNON

The JX monoblock amplifier is turned on
and off using a conventional +12V remote
turn-on lead, typically controlled by the
source unit’s remote turn-on output.

The amplifier will turn on when +12V is
present at its “Remote” input and turn off when
+12V is switched off. If a source unit does not
have a dedicated remote turn-on output, the
amplifier’s turn-on lead can be connected to +12V
via a switch that derives power from an ignition­switched circuit.

18 AWG wire is more than adequate for the
remote turn-on connection. To connect the
remote turn-on wire to the amplifier, strip 1/2­inch (12 mm) of insulation from the wire and
insert it into the “Remote” receptacle on the
power connector. Tighten the connector down
using the supplied 2.5 mm hex wrench.

AMPLIFIER INPUTS

The JX monoblock amplifier offers
two input connection methods, one for
high-level (speaker level) signals and one
for low-level (preamp level) signals.

You may run a stereo or a mono signal into
the inputs of the amplifier. The amplifier’s input
section automatically sums stereo signals to mono
for the internal amplifier section.

The amplifier will operate with only one input
connection (left or right), but will require an
increase in input sensitivity to overcome the loss
of signal. For this reason, when feeding a mono
input signal into the "Low-Level Inputs", use a
Y-adaptor splitter to split the mono signal and
connect it to both the Left and Right Low-Level
Inputs of the amplifier.
When feeding a mono signal to the "Hi-Level
Inputs", connect it in parallel to both left and
right input wires.

1) Low-Level Inputs: A standard left/

right pair of RCA type jacks is used for
preamp level (low-level) signal input on
the JX monoblocks. This is the preferred
connection method whenever available.

2) Hi-Level Inputs: If your system does not offer
a preamp level signal option, you can connect
speaker level signals directly to the “Hi-Level
Inputs” connector using the supplied mating
connector and wire harness. Simply splice the
appropriate left/right and positive/negative
wires to the included harness and plug the
harness into the “Hi-Level Inputs” connector
on the amplifier. The JX monoblock will
attenuate the high-level signal to make it
compatible with its input stage.

IMPORTANT!

!

Make sure you observe correct polarity in
making the “Hi-Level Input” connections.
Failure to do so will result in a complete loss of
signal (no bass).

The connections for the “Hi-Level Inputs” plug wires
are as follows from left to right on the plug:

White: Left Positive (+)
White/Black: Left Negative (–)
Black: Common Ground (rarely used)*
Gray: Right Positive (+)
Gray/Black: Right Negative (–)

*The only time you will use the “Common
Ground” connection is with some older (pre-

1980’s) factory systems or head units that ground
their speakers to chassis ground. To use this
connection, ground the black wire on the plug to
chassis ground and only connect the Left and Right

Positive plug wires to the factory radio outputs.

IMPORTANT!

!

If you plan to use the preamp outputs to feed a
stereo amplifier, you must connect stereo
signals to the inputs of the amplifier. A mono
signal into the amplifier will result in a mono
signal out of its preamp output.

“INPUT SENSITIVITY” GAIN ADJUSTMENT

Located to the left of the input connectors is a
rotary control labeled “Input Sens.”. This rotary
control can be used to match the source unit’s
output voltage to the input stage of the amplifier
for maximum clean output.

Rotating the control clockwise will result
in higher sensitivity (louder for a given input
voltage). Rotating the control counter-clockwise
will result in lower sensitivity (quieter for a given
input voltage). To properly set the amplifier for
maximum clean output, please refer to Appendix
A (page 12) in this manual. After using this
procedure, you can then adjust the level of the
amplifier by adjusting the input sensitivity
downward, if the amplifier requires attenuation to
achieve the desired system balance.

Do not increase the “Input Sens.” setting for
any amplifier in the system beyond the maximum
level established during the procedure outlined
in Appendix A (page 12). Doing so will result in
audible distortion and possible speaker damage.

ENGLISH

6 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 7

LOWPASS FILTER CONTROL

The JX monoblock employs a 12dB/octave
low-pass active filter for its internal channel. This
feature is designed to attenuate frequencies above
its filter frequency, so that the system’s subwoofers
do not reproduce any audible mid-range content.

The low-pass filter is fully variable between
50 Hz and 200 Hz via the “Filter Frequency”
control knob. 80 Hz (as shown in the diagram
below) is a good starting point for system tuning.

“PREOUTS”

The JX monoblock incorporates a pass-

through preamp output (Preouts) section,

designed to make multiple amplifier systems easy
to set up. This section consists of a pair of RCA­type jacks marked “Preouts”.

These preamp outputs deliver the same signal
that is being fed to the Low-Level inputs. (If the
input signals are full-range, the preamp outputs
will be full-range). This signal is not affected by
the bass boost or Filter processing selected for the
amplifier.

“BASS BOOST” CONTROL

The JX monoblock includes a single band,
boost-only bass equalizer controlled by a rotary
knob marked “Bass Boost”. This control has a
boost range of 0dB (full-counterclockwise) to
+12dB (full-clockwise) and is centered at 45 Hz.

REMOTE LEVEL CONTROL

With the optional RBC-1 Remote Level
Control (sold separately), you can control the
subwoofer volume from the front of the vehicle.

The RBC-1 connects to the jack
labeled “Remote Level Control” on the

Connection Panel of the JX Monoblock

amplifier, using a standard telephone
cable (supplied with the RBC-1).

When connected to the amplifier, the
Remote Level Control operates as follows.
At full counter-clockwise rotation, the audio
will mute completely. At full clockwise
rotation the level will be the same as if
the RBC-1 was not connected at all. In
other words, it operates strictly as a level

attenuator. This control will not affect the
"Bass Boost" feature of the JX Monoblock.

ENGLISH

IMPORTANT!

!

The "Preouts" of the JX250/1 and JX500/1D
will not pass signals from the Hi-Level inputs.
The JX1000/1D will pass signals from the
Hi-Level inputs and will attenuate them to
Low-Level.

8 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 9

Care should be taken to securely mount this
control in a manner that does not interfere with
vehicle operation.

When setting the amplifier’s input sensitivity,
the Remote Level Control should be unplugged or
at full clockwise rotation (maximum level).

SPEAKER OUTPUT

IMPORTANT!

!

Subwoofer connection to the JX monoblock
is straightforward and takes place at the
far right of the power/speaker connection
panel. Two positive (“+”) connections and
two negative (“–”) connections are available
via a connector labeled “Speaker Output
(Mono)”. The dual connections allow for two
separate speaker wire runs to be parallel­connected to the amplifier’s mono output.

Speaker loads below 2Ω nominal are not
recommended and will cause the amplifier to
enter into a protection mode.

Do not chassis ground any speakers connected
to this or any other JL Audio amplifier. Doing so
will cause the amplifier to go into protection.

To connect the speaker wires to the amplifier,
strip 1/2-inch (12 mm) of insulation from each
speaker wire and insert them into their
appropriate connector (observing correct
polarity). Then, tighten each connector using the
supplied 2.5 mm hex wrench.

IMPORTANT!

!

Do NOT attempt to “bridge” two JX
monoblocks together or combine their output
to a single load in any manner. Doing so will
damage the amplifier(s).

IMPORTANT!

!

Before reconnecting the battery ground and
turning the system on, verify that all control
settings on the amplifier are set according to
the needs of the system.

STATUS INDICATOR LIGHTS /
PROTECTION CIRCUITRY

There are two status indicator lights on the

amplifier’s control panel. These are as follows:

1) “Power” (Green): Located at the far left of the
amplifier’s control panel, this LED lights to
indicate that the amplifier is turned on and
operating normally.

2) “Protect” (Red): Indicates that the amplifier
protection circuitry has been activated
to prevent product failure due to thermal
overload, short-circuit or a dangerously
low impedance connected to the amplifier
outputs. Connecting the speaker output to
an impedance lower than 2 ohms will cause
this protection mode to activate. When this
protection mode is activated, the amplifier will
shut down to protect its circuitry. When the
problem is corrected, the amplifier will return
to normal operation and the “Protect” LED
will shut off.

SERVICING YOUR AMPLIFIER

If your amplifier fails or malfunctions, please
return it to your authorized JL Audio dealer so
that it may be sent in to JL Audio for service.
There are no user serviceable parts or fuses inside
the amplifier. The unique nature of the circuitry
in the JL Audio amplifiers requires specifically
trained service personnel. Do not attempt
to service the amplifier yourself or through
unauthorized repair facilities. This will not only
void the warranty, but may result in the creation
of more problems within the amplifier.

If you have any questions about the installation or
setup of the amplifier not covered in this manual,

please contact your dealer or technical support.

JL Audio Technical Support:

[phone]

9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Eastern Time Zone)

Monday - Friday

ENGLISH

10 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 11

APPENDIX A:
Input Sensitivity Level Setting

Following the directions below will allow the
installer to adjust the input sensitivity of each
amplifier channel pair simply and easily in just a
few minutes using equipment which is commonly
available in installation bays.

Necessary Equipment

• Digital AC Voltmeter

• CD with a sine-wave test tone recorded at

0 dB reference level in the frequency range
to be amplified (50 Hz is a good choice). Do not
use attenuated test tones (-10 dB, -20 dB, etc.).

The Nine-Step Procedure

1) Disconnect the subwoofer(s) from the

amplifier’s subwoofer output connector (you

need only disconnect Pos. or Neg., not both).

2) Turn off all processing (bass/treble, loudness,

EQ, etc.) on the source unit, processors (if
used) and amplifier. Set the source unit's fader
control to center position and its subwoofer level
control to 3/4 of maximum. If connected, set the
amplifier’s Remote Level Control at maximum
(full clockwise).

3) Turn the amplifier's “Input Sens.” control all

the way down.

4) Set the source unit volume to 3/4 of full

volume. This will allow for reasonable gain
overlap with moderate clipping at full volume.

5) Using the charts on this page, determine the

target voltage for input sensitivity adjustment
according to the nominal impedance of the
speaker system connected to the amplifier
outputs. Make sure you reference the appropriate
chart for your specific JX monoblock model.

6) Verify that you have disconnected the speakers

before proceeding. Play a track with an

appropriate sine wave (50 Hz is recommended)
at 3/4 source unit volume.

7) Connect the AC voltmeter to the speaker output

connectors of the amplifier. Make sure you test
the voltage at the correct connectors (+ and –).

8) Increase the “Input Sens.” control until the

target voltage is observed with the voltmeter.

9) Once you have adjusted the amplifier to
its maximum low-distortion output level,
reconnect the speaker(s) and listen to the
system. The “Input Sens.” controls can
now be adjusted downward if the amplifier
requires attenuation to achieve the desired
system balance.

IMPORTANT!

!

Do not increase any “Input Sens.” setting for
any amplifier channel or channel pair in the
system beyond the maximum level established
during this procedure. Doing so will result in
audible distortion and possible speaker damage.

It will be necessary to re-adjust the
“Input Sens.” for the affected channels if any
equalizer boost is activated after setting the
“Input Sens.” with this procedure. This applies
to any EQ boost circuit, including source unit
tone controls or EQ circuits. EQ cuts will not
require re-adjustment.

JX250/1

Nom. Impedance Target AC Voltage

4 26.5 V

3 25.1 V

2 22.4 V

JX500/1D

Nom. Impedance Target AC Voltage

4 34.6 V

3 35.5 V

2 31.6 V

JX1000/1D

Nom. Impedance Target AC Voltage

4 44.7 V

3 47.4 V

2 44.7 V

APPENDIX B:
Specifications

Input Section (all models):

Low-Level Input: Single -ended with RCA jacks
Low-Leve l Input Range: 200mV - 4V RMS
High-Level Input: Single-ended with molded connector
High-Level Input Range: 2.0V - 10.0V RMS

Signal Processing (all models):

Filter Type: 12dB/octave Low-Pass with continuously

variable cutoff frequency selection from 50 - 200 Hz.

Not defeatable.

Preamp Output: 2-Ch., pass-through with RCA-type jacks
Bass Boost: Single-band with 45 Hz center frequenc y,

adjustable from 0 to +12dB.
Remote Level Control: Via optional, wired RBC-1 remote

control knob. Full mute to 0 dB range. (RBC-1 is sold

separately.)

JX250/1 Specifications:

Amplifier Topology: Class A/B
Power Supply : Unregulated PWM switching typ e
Frequency Response: 10 - 150 Hz (+0/– 1 dB)
Signal to Noise Ratio:

>87 dBA referred to highest rated power, >63 dBA

referred to 1W (20 Hz - 20 kHz noise b andwidth)

Damping Factor: >160 @ 4 ohms
THD + Noise @ R ated Power: 1 %
Rated Continuous (RMS) Power @ 14.4V:

175W RMS x 1 @ 4

210W RMS x 1 @ 3

250W RMS x 1 @ 2
Rated Continuous (RMS) Power @ 12.5V:

130W RMS x 1 @ 4

170W RMS x 1 @ 3

210W RMS x 1 @ 2

Recommended Fuse Value (Type): 30A (MAXI or AGU)
Minimum Copper Power/Ground Wire Gauge: 8 AWG
Dimensions (LxWxH):

10.94" x 7.68" x 2.09" (278 mm x 195 mm x 53 mm)
Net Weight: 6.0 lbs. (2.72 kg)

JX500/1D Specifications:

Amplifier Topology: Class D
Power Supply : Unregulated PWM switching typ e
Frequency Response: 10 - 150 Hz (+0/– 1 dB)
Signal to Noise Ratio:

>62 dBA referred to highest rated power, >35 dBA

referred to 1W (20 Hz - 20 kHz noise b andwidth)

Damping Factor: >1000 @ 4 ohms
THD + Noise @ Rated Power: 1 %
Rated Continuous (RMS) Power @ 14.4V:

300W RMS x 1 @ 4

400W RMS x 1 @ 3

500W RMS x 1 @ 2
Rated Continuous (RMS) Power @ 12.5V:

235W RMS x 1 @ 4

300W RMS x 1 @ 3

410W RMS x 1 @ 2

Recommended Fuse Value (Type): 50A (MAXI or AGU)
Minimum Copper Power/Ground Wire Gauge: 4 AWG
Dimensions (LxWxH):

7.83" x 7.68" x 2.15" (199 mm x 195 mm x 53 mm)
Net Weight: 4.8 lbs. (2.18 kg)

JX1000/1D Specifications:

Amplifier Topology: Class D
Power Supply : Unregulated PWM switching typ e
Frequency Response: 20 - 150 Hz (+/– 1 dB)
Signal to Noise Ratio:

>75 dBA referred to highest rated power, >45 dBA referred

to 1W (20 Hz - 20 kHz noise bandwidth)

Damping Factor: >1000 @ 4 ohms
THD + Noise @ R ated Power: 1 %
Rated Continuous (RMS) Power @ 14.4V:

500W RMS x 1 @ 4

750W RMS x 1 @ 3

1000W RMS x 1 @ 2
Rated Continuous (RMS) Power @ 12.5V:

500W RMS x 1 @ 4

700W RMS x 1 @ 3

900W RMS x 1 @ 2

Recommended Fuse Value (Type): 80A (MAXI or ANL)
Minimum Copper Power/Ground Wire Gauge: 4 AWG
Dimensions (LxWxH):

10.94" x 7.68" x 2.09" (278 mm x 195 mm x 53 mm)
Net Weight: 7.0 lbs. (3.18 kg)

ENGLISH

Due to ongoing product development, all specifications are subject to
change without notice.

12 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX50 0/1D • JX1000/1D 13

APPENDIX C: TROUBLESHOOTING
“How do I properly set the input sensitivity on my amplifier”

Please refer to Appendix A (page 12) to set the input sensitivity for

maximum, low-distortion output.

“My amplifier doesn’t turn on”

Check the fuse, not just visually, but with a continuity meter. It is

possible for a fuse to have poor internal connections that
cannot be found by visual inspection. It is best to take the
fuse out of the holder for testing. If no problem is found with
the fuse, inspect the fuse-holder.

Check the integrity of the connections made to each of the

“+12VDC”, “Ground”, and “Remote” terminals. Ensure

that no wire insulation is pinched by the terminal set screw
and that each connection is tight.

Check to make sure there is +12V at the “Remote” connection of the

amplifier. In some cases, the turn-on lead from the source unit
is insufficient to turn on multiple devices and the use of a relay
is required. To test for this problem, jump the “+12V DC” wire
to the “Remote” terminal to see if the amplifier turns on. If this
does not work, proceed to the next step.

“My amplifier’s output fluctuates when I tap on it or hit a bump”

Check the connections to the amplifier. Make sure that the

insulation for all wires has been stripped back far enough to
allow a good contact area inside the terminal block.

Check the input connectors to ensure that they all are making good

contact with the input jacks on the amplifier.

“My amplifier turns on, but there is no output”

Check the input signal using an AC voltmeter to measure the

voltage from the source unit while an appropriate test tone is
played through the source unit (disconnect the input cables
from the amplifier prior to this test). The frequency used
should be in the range that is to be amplified by the amplifier
(example: 50 Hz for a sub bass application or 1 kHz for a full
range / high-pass application). A steady, sufficient voltage
(between 0.2 and 8.0-volts) should be present at the output of
the signal cables.

Check the output of the amplifier. Using the procedure explained in

the previous check item (after plugging the input cables back
into the amplifier) test for output at the speaker outputs of
the amplifier. Unless you enjoy test tones at high levels, it is
a good idea to remove the speaker wires from the amplifier
while doing this. Turn the volume up approximately half
way. 5V or more should be measured at the speaker outputs.
This output level can vary greatly between amplifiers but it
should not be in the millivolt range with the source unit at
half volume. If you are reading sufficient voltage, check your
speaker connections as explained below.

Check to ensure that the speaker wires are making a good

connection with the metal inside the terminal block. The
speaker wire connectors are designed to accept up to 8 AWG
wire. Make sure to strip the wire to allow for a sufficient
connection with the metal inside the terminal block.

ENGLISH

14 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 15

INSTALLATION NOTES:

Use this diagram to document your amplifier’s switch and control positions.

ENGLISH

16 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 17

LIMITED WARRANTY  AMPLIFIERS USA

JL AUDIO warrants this product to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a

period of two (2) years. The warranty is extended to three (3) years total if installation is performed by an

authorized JL Audio dealer using a JL Audio Premium Power Connection System for power wiring.

This warranty is not transferrable and applies only to the original purchaser from an authorized
JL AUDIO dealer. 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. Damage caused by the following is not covered under warranty:
accident, misuse, abuse, product modification or neglect, failure to follow installation instructions,
unauthorized repair attempts, misrepresentations by the seller. This warranty does not cover incidental
or consequential damages and does not cover the cost of removing or reinstalling the unit(s). Cosmetic
damage due to accident or normal wear and tear is not covered under warranty.

Warranty is void if the product’s serial number has been removed or defaced.

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 thereafter. Some states do not allow limitations on implied
warranties, therefore these exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights,
and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

MANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO

Amplificadores Monobloque para Subwoofers

Muchas gracias por adquirir un amplificador JL Audio para el sistema

deaudio de su automóvil.

If you need service on your JL AUDIO product:

All warranty returns should be sent to JL Audio ’s Amplifier Service Facility 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 non-authorized dealers will be refused unless specifically
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. Non­defective 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.

For Service Information in the U.S.A. please call

JL Audio Customer Service: [phone]

9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Eastern Time Zone)

JL Audio, Inc

10369 North Commerce Pkwy.

Miramar, FL 33025

(do not send product for repair to this address)

International Warranties:

Products purchased outside the United States of America are covered only

by that country’s distributor and not by JL Audio, Inc.

El amplificador se ha diseñado y fabricado de acuerdo con normas

rigurosas a fin de asegurarle que disfrutará de la música en su vehículo

durante muchos años. Para un rendimiento óptimo, recomendamos que

su nuevo amplificador sea instalado por un distribuidor autorizado de JL

Audio. El distribuidor autorizado cuenta con la capacitación, la pericia

y los equipos de instalación necesarios para asegurar el rendimiento

óptimo de este producto. En el caso de que decida instalar usted mismo

el amplificador, lea atentamente este manual para familiarizarse con los

requisitos de la instalación y los procedimientos de configuración.

Si tiene alguna duda relacionada con las instrucciones dadas en este

manual o con cualquier aspecto del funcionamiento del amplificador,

póngase en contacto con un distribuidor autorizado de JL Audio para

solicitar asistencia. Si necesita más ayuda, llame a nuestro Departamento

de Soporte Técnico al [phone] en los EE.UU. durante horas

normales de oficina.

JX250/1 • JX500/1DD • JX1000/1D- CH-07-2012

PROTEJA SU AUDICIÓN!

Lo valoramos como cliente a largo plazo.

Por ello, lo instamos a utilizar este producto

con cautela para no dañar su audición y la de
sus acompañantes en el vehículo. Los estudios
realizados han demostrado que una exposición
continua a niveles de presión de sonido muy
altos puede provocar pérdida de audición
permanente (irreparable). Tanto este como otros
amplificadores de alta potencia pueden producir
niveles de presión de sonido muy elevados
cuando se conectan a un sistema de altavoces.
Lerecomendamos que limite la exposición
continua a niveles de volumen altos.

Mientras conduce, use su sistema de audio
de manera que le permita escuchar los ruidos
necesarios para conducir de manera segura
(bocinas, sirenas, etc.)

Conector

a tierra del

chasis

(pág. 5)

de encendido

Selector

de frecuencia

de ltro

(pág. 8)

de amplicación

Conector

remoto
(pág. 6)

Control

de entrada

(pág. 7)

Indicador
de estado de
alimentación

(pág. 11)

Conector

de alimentación

de +12V

(pág. 5)

Indicador

de estado de

protección

(pág. 11)

NÚMERO DE SERIE

En el caso de que necesite reparar su
amplificador o si se lo roban, deberá tener
registrado el número de serie del producto.
No deje de anotar dicho número en el
espacio provisto a continuación. El número
de serie se encuentra en el panel inferior del
amplificador y en el embalaje del producto.

Número de serie:

Salidas

de altavoces

(pág. 10)

Conector

de entrada

de alto nivel

(pág. 6, 7)

bajo nivel izquierdo

bajo nivel izquierdo

Conectores

de entrada de

y derecho

(pág. 6)

Conectores
de salida de

y derecho

(pág. 8)

Control
de nivel
remoto
(pág. 9)

Control

de refuerzo

de bajos
(pág. 9)

DÓNDE PUEDE INSTALARSE

Este amplificador se ha diseñado para
funcionar en vehículos con sistemas eléctricos
de 12 V con toma a tierra negativa. Si se utiliza
este producto en vehículos con sistemas con
toma a tierra positiva y/o voltajes diferentes
de12V, pueden ocasionarse daños al producto
yseanulará la garantía.

Este producto no está certificado o aprobado
para el uso en aeronaves. No intente realizar
“conexiones puenteadas” entre las salidas de este
amplificador y las de un segundo amplificador,
aunque sea idéntico al original.

PLANIFICACIÓN DE LA INSTALACIÓN

Es importante que dedique tiempo a leer
este manual y que planifique cuidadosamente
lainstalación. A continuación se indican algunas
consideraciones que debe tener en cuenta
alplanificar la instalación.

Consideraciones relativas a la eficiencia
deenfriamiento:

La carcasa externa de su amplificador JL Audio
se ha diseñado para eliminar el calor del circuito

del amplificador. Para lograr el rendimiento

de enfriamiento óptimo, la carcasa debe estar
expuesta al mayor volumen de aire posible.
Si el amplificador se coloca en una cámara
pequeña con escasa ventilación, se producirá una
acumulación de calor excesiva y se degradará
el rendimiento. Si la instalación requiere un
espacio envuelto alrededor del amplificador,
recomendamos que este se ventile con la ayuda

de un ventilador. Para aplicaciones normales,

no se requiere enfriamiento con un ventilador.

IMPORTANTE

!

Se desalienta firmemente montar
elamplificador boca abajo.

Si se monta el amplificador debajo de
un asiento, asegúrese de que haya por lo
menos 2,5 cm (1 pulgada) por encima de
lacarcasa del amplificador para permitir
unenfriamientoadecuado.

Consideraciones relativas a la seguridad:

El amplificador se debe instalar en un
lugar seco y bien ventilado, y de manera que
no interfiera con los equipos de seguridad
del vehículo (bolsas de aire, sistemas de
cinturones de seguridad, sistemas de frenos
ABS, etc.). También debería tomarse el tiempo
necesario para colocar el amplificador de
manera segura mediante el uso de la tornillería
adecuada para que no se produzca un
desprendimiento en caso de colisión del vehículo
o delaexistencia de baches en el asfalto.

Errores que hay que evitar:

• Antes de perforar un agujero en el vehículo,

compruebe que no perforará el tanque de
gasolina, la línea de frenos, el arnés de cableado
u otro sistema esencial del vehículo.

• No instale el cableado en el exterior o debajo

del vehículo. Es una práctica extremadamente
peligrosa que puede provocar daños graves
asuvehículo y a usted mismo.

• Proteja todos los cables del sistema de bordes

metálicos afilados y desgaste. A tal fin,
colóquelos cuidadosamente, amárrelos y use
ojales y organizadores de cables donde sea
apropiado.

• No instale el amplificador en el compartimento

del motor, debajo del vehículo, sobre el techo
nien ninguna otra zona en la que el circuito del
amplificador esté expuesto a los elementos.

Español

2 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 3

DESCRIPCIÓN DEL PRODUCTO

Los amplificadores monobloque JX de
JL Audio se han diseñado específicamente
para alimentar subwoofers. Su respuesta de
frecuencia está limitada a un rango inferior

a 150Hz. Por ello, no son adecuados para
altavoces de rango medio o tweeters. Para

conocer las especificaciones detalladas,
consulte el Apéndice B (página13).

SECUENCIA DE INSTALACIÓN TÍPICA

A continuación se representan los pasos
necesarios para la instalación típica de un
amplificador mediante el uso de un reproductor
de audio posventa o una interfaz con equipo
de fábrica. En algunos casos, pueden requerirse
pasos adicionales y procedimientos diferentes.
Sitiene cualquier duda, póngase en contacto
con un distribuidor autorizado de JL Audio para
solicitar asistencia.

1) Desconecte la conexión del polo negativo
de la batería y sujete el cable desconectado
para evitar una reconexión accidental
durante la instalación. ¡Este paso
noesopcional!

2) Lleve el cable de alimentación desde la
ubicación de la batería hasta el lugar de
montaje del amplificador, con cuidado
de colocar el cable de manera que no se
dañe o interfiera con el funcionamiento
del vehículo. Consulte en la página
siguiente el tamaño de cable adecuado.

3) Conecte el cable de alimentación al polo
positivo de la batería. Interrumpa el cable
con un bloque de fusibles apropiado
(y conectores) a 45 cm (18 pulgadas)
como máximo del polo positivo de
labatería. Este fusible es esencial para
proteger el vehículo. No instale el fusible
hasta que el cable de alimentación
sehaya conectado al amplificador.

4) Lleve los cables de señal (cables RCA)
yel cable de encendido remoto desde la
unidad fuente hasta el lugar de montaje del
amplificador.

5) Lleve el cable de los altavoces desde
elsistema de altavoces hasta el lugar
demontaje del amplificador.

6) Escoja un punto de toma a tierra de metal
sólido adecuado cercano al amplificador
yconecte el cable de alimentación negativo
a este utilizando tornillería apropiada. Use
un cable de alimentación del mismo calibre
que el cable conectado a la conexión de
+12 V, de 90cm (36 pulgadas) de largo
como máximo, desde el conector a tierra
del amplificador (GND) hasta el punto
de toma a tierra. En algunos vehículos,
puede ser necesario aumentar el calibre
del cable a tierra de la batería. (Consulte
el aviso importante de la página 5.)

7) Monte el amplificador de manera segura
usando la tornillería adecuada.

8) Conecte los cables de alimentación positivo
y negativo al amplificador.

9) Conecte el cable de encendido remoto
alamplificador.

10) Conecte los cables de entrada
alamplificador.

11) Conecte los cables de los altavoces
alamplificador.

12) Revise con atención los ajustes de control
del amplificador para asegurarse de que
se hayan configurado de acuerdo con las
necesidades del sistema.

13) Instale el fusible del cable de alimentación
(consulte la página siguiente para el valor
adecuado) y vuelva a conectar el terminal
del polo negativo de la batería.

14) Encienda la unidad fuente a un nivel
bajo para comprobar nuevamente que
el amplificador se haya configurado
correctamente. Resista la tentación de
subir el volumen al máximo hasta que haya
verificado los ajustes de control.

15) Haga los ajustes necesarios en los controles
de amplificación de entrada para obtener
la salida general adecuada y el balance
deseado en el sistema. Consulte el
Apéndice A (página12) para el método
de configuración recomendado para
laamplificación de entrada.

16) Disfrute del trabajo realizado escuchando
su música favorita.

CONEXIONES DE ALIMENTACIÓN

Antes de instalar el amplificador,
desconecte el cable negativo (tierra) de la
batería del vehículo. Esto servirá para evitar
daños accidentales al sistema, al vehículo
y a usted mismo durante la instalación.

La conexiones “+12 VDC” (positiva)
y“Ground” (A tierra) del amplificador están
diseñadas para admitir cables de alimentación
hasta calibre 4 AWG.

Requisitos mínimos de tamaño del

cable de alimentación/toma a tierra:

JX250/1: 8 AWG

JX500/1D: 4 AWG

JX1000/1D: 4 AWG

Nota: Cuanto menor es el número del AWG,
mayor es el calibre del cable y viceversa. (El cable
calibre 1/0AWG es el más grande, el calibre
2AWG es más pequeño, después el calibre
4AWG, calibre 8 AWG, etc.)

Las recomendaciones anteriores sobre
calibre del cable presuponen que no hay
otros amplificadores conectados al mismo
cable. Use un cable más grueso con un
bloque de distribución con fusibles (o cables
separados) para varios amplificadores.

Si va a instalar este dispositivo con otros
amplificadores y desea usar un único cable
de alimentación principal, use un cable de
alimentación principal calibre 2 AWG o 1/0AWG
(según la exigencia de corriente de todos los
amplificadores del sistema). Es recomendable
que este cable de alimentación calibre 2 AWG
o1/0AWG termine en un bloque de distribución
con fusibles montado lo más cerca posible de los
amplificadores y que se conecte al monobloque

JX con un cable calibre 4 AWG (el calibre 8 AWG
solo es suficiente para el JX250/1).

Para conectar los cables de alimentación

yde toma a tierra al amplificador, pele
12mm (0,5 pulgada) de aislamiento de
cada cable e inserte el cable pelado en las
posiciones terminales adecuadas del bloque
enelJX250/1. Use la llave hexagonal de 2,5mm
provista para sujetar el cable con un tornillo
en la parte superior de cada terminal.

Es recomendable que la conexión “Ground”
(A tierra) se realice con un cable calibre 4 AWG
(el calibre 8 AWG solo es suficiente para el
JX250/1) lo más corto posible, con acceso a una
chapa metálica en el vehículo. La superficie de
la chapa metálica debería pulirse en el punto
decontacto para crear una buena conexión entre
metales entre el chasis y la terminación del cable
de toma a tierra. Es aconsejable usar un tornillo
para chapa n.º 10 y una arandela en estrella

para asegurar la conexión. Puede utilizar, de

manera alternativa, un conector de toma a tierra
especializado como el XB-MGLU de JL Audio.
Se deben proteger todos los cables que atraviesen
barreras metálicas, como los cortafuegos, con una
goma de aislamiento de alta calidad a fin de evitar
daños al aislamiento del cable. En caso contrario,
podría producirse un cortocircuito peligroso.

IMPORTANTE

!

En muchos vehículos, se utilizan cables
pequeños (calibre 10AWG - calibre 6 AWG)
para conectar la batería a tierra en el chasis del
vehículo y para conectar el conector positivo
del alternador a la batería. Con el fin de evitar
caídas de voltaje, el calibre de estos cables
sedebe aumentar a calibre 4 AWG cuando
seinstalan sistemas de amplificadores con
fusible principal de más de 60 A.

REQUISITOS DEL FUSIBLE

JX250/1: 30 A (AGU o MAXI®)

JX500/1D: 50 A (AGU o MAXI®)

JX1000/1D: 80A (AGU, ANL o MAXI®)

Es esencial usar un fusible apropiado en
los cables de alimentación principales a los
amplificadores para la seguridad del vehículo.

Español

4 JL Audio JX250/1 • JX500/1D • JX1000/1D 5