JL Audio 300/2v2 Mobile Amplifier Owner's Manual

owner’s manual
two-channel full-range amplifier
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 and extended warranty
coverage, 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 the JL Audio Technical Support Department
at (954) 443-1100 during business hours.
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.).
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.
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 warranty.
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.
Cooling efficiency Considerations:
Your JL Audio amplifier employs an
advanced type of heat management, called
RealSink™. This feature takes advantage of
convection and radiation effects to remove
heat from the amplifier circuitry. For optimum
cooling performance, the vertical heat sinks
located at the back of the amplifier 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, but
you still need to follow some basic guidelines:
• Amplifier mounted vertically with heat sink fins
pointing up: Optimum
• Amplifier mounted horizontally,
right side up: Good
• Amplifier mounted horizontally, but upside
down: Fair (not recommended if there is
less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) clearance above the
amplifier heat sinks)
• Amplifier mounted vertically with heat sink fins
pointing laterally: Fair
• Amplifier mounted vertically with heat sink fins
pointing down: Poor (not recommended)
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.
Serial Number:
Chassis Ground
Connector
(pg. 5)
+12 V Power
Remote Turn-On
Connector
Connector
(pg. 5)
(pg. 6)
+12VDC
Ground Remote
Preamp Output
Signal Selector
(pg. 8)
Filter Slope
Input Sensitivity
Selection
Control
(pg. 7)
(pg. 7)
Input Voltage
Filter Frequency
Range Selector
Range Selector
(pg. 6)
(pg. 8)
Preamp Output Section
Output Mode
Amp Filter Controls
Amplifier Input Section
Freq. Range
Filter Slope
Input Voltage
x1 | x10
12dB | 24dB
Low | High
Full Range | Low-Pass | High-Pass
95
75
60
300/ 2v2
Two-Channel Full-Range Amplifier
50
Left Output
Right Output
Left and Right
Preamp Output Jacks
(pg. 8)
2 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
130
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.
Speaker Outputs
Input Sens.
Filter Mode
200
Left
500 Off | LP | HP
Filter Freq. (Hz)
Filter
Cutoff
Frequency
Selector
(pg. 8)
Speaker Outputs
(pg. 9)
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.
Left Ch.
Filter
Mode
Selector
(pg. 7)
Right Ch.
Right
Bridged
Left and Right
Input Jacks
(pg. 8)
3
ProduCt desCriPtion
The JL Audio 300/2v2 is a two-channel fullrange amplifier utilizing patented Absolute
Symmetry™ Class A/B technology for both
channels. These channels benefit from JL Audio’s
exclusive R.I.P.S. power supply design which
optimizes the output for any impedance between
1.5 and 4 ohms per channel (3 - 8Ω bridged).
The 300/2v2’s flexible input and crossover
sections permit operation with a wide variety of
source units and system configurations.
tYPiCal installation sequenCe
The following represents the sequence
for a typical amplifier installation, using an
aftermarket source unit or OEM Interface
processor (like the CleanSweep® CL441dsp).
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 (minimum 8 AWG) 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. Use 4 , 2 or
1/0 AWG power wire if additional amplifiers
are being installed with the 300/2v2.
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.
4 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
6) Find a good, solid metal grounding point
close to the amplifier and connect the
negative power wire to it using appropriate
hardware. Use minimum 8 AWG power wire,
no longer than 36 inches (90 cm) from the
amplifier 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. A fuse near the
amplifier is not necessary.
9) Connect the remote turn-on wire
to the amplifier.
10) Connect the RCA 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 (40A for a
single 300/2v2) 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.
+12VDC
Ground Remote
300 /2v2
Two-Channel Full-Range Amplifier
The 300/2v2’s “+12 VDC” and “Ground”
connections are designed to accept 8 - 4
AWG power wire. 8 AWG is the minimum
recommended power wire size for this amplifier.
If you are installing the 300/2v2 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 distribution block mounted as close to the
amplifiers as possible and should connect to the
300/2v2 with 8 - 4 AWG power wire.
Note: that 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.).
To connect the power wires to the amplifier,
first back out the set screw on the top of the
terminal block, using the supplied 2.5 mm hex
wrench. Strip 1/2 inch (12 mm) of insulation from
the end of each wire and insert the bare wire into
the terminal block, seating it firmly so that no
bare wire is exposed. While holding the wire in
place, tighten the set screw firmly, taking care not
to strip the head of the screw.
The ground connection should be made using
the same gauge wire as the power connection
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. For
optimal grounding, we recommend the use of a
JL Audio ECS master ground lug (XB-MGLU).
Alternatively, a sheet metal screw or bolt can be
used with a star washer.
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
It is absolutely vital that the main power
lead to the amplifier(s) in the system be fused
within 18 inches (45 cm) of the positive battery
post connection. The fuse value at each power
wire should be high enough for all of the
equipment being run from that power wire.
If only the 300/2v2 is being run from
that power wire, we recommend a 40A fuse
be used. AGU (big glass fuse), MaxiFuse™
(big plastic-body fuse) or AFS (miniblade fuse) types are recommended.
No fuse is required or recommended directly
before the amplifier power connection. If one is
desired, we recommend the use of a 40A AGU,
AFS or MaxiFuse™ type fuse.
5
turn-on lead
The 300/2v2 uses 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 ignition-switched circuit.
The 300/2v2’s “Remote” turn-on connector is
designed to accept 18 AWG – 8 AWG wire.
12 AWG is more than adequate for this purpose.
To connect the remote turn-on wire to the
amplifier, first back out the set screw on the top
of the amplifier, using the supplied hex wrench.
Strip 1/2 inch (12mm) of wire and insert the
bare wire into the receptacle on the front panel
of the amplifier, seating it firmly so that no bare
wire is exposed. When using smaller wire, it may
be necessary to strip 1 inch of insulation from
the wire and fold the bare wire in half prior to
insertion. While holding the wire in the terminal,
tighten the set screw firmly, taking care not to
strip the head of the screw and making sure that
the wire is firmly gripped by the set screw.
6 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
inPut seCtion
The 300/2v2 has one input section, which
contains a pair of RCA-type input jacks, an
“Input Voltage” switch and an “Input Sens.”
rotary control.
trols
Amplifier Input Section
er Slope
Input Voltage
12dB | 24dB
Low | High
Input Sens.
amPliFier Filter seCtion
utput Section
LP | HP
Right Ch.
1) Input Voltage Range: A wide range of signal
input voltages can be accommodated by
the 300/2v2’s input section (200mV – 8V).
This wide range is split up into two subranges, accessible via a switch located in
the “Amplifier Input Section”. The “Low”
position on the “Input Voltage” switch selects
an input sensitivity range between 200mV
and 2V. This means that the “Input Sens.”
rotary control will operate within that voltage
window. If you are using an aftermarket
source unit, with conventional preamp-level
outputs, this is most likely the position that you
will use. The “High” position on the “Input
Voltage” switch selects an input sensitivity
range between 800mV and 8V. This is useful
for certain high-output preamp level signals
as well as speaker-level output from source
units and small amplifiers. To use speaker-level
sources, splice the speaker output wires of the
source unit or small amplifier onto a pair of
RCA plugs or use the JL Audio ECS Speaker
Wire to RCA adaptor (XB-CLRAIC2-SW).
2) Input Sensitivity Adjustment: Located next to
the “Input Voltage” switch in the “Amplifier
Input Section” is a rotary control labeled
“Input Sens.”. Once the appropriate “Input
Voltage” range has been selected, this control
can be used to match the source unit’s output
voltage to the input stage of the 300/2v2 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 “Input
Sens.” level downward if this is required
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.
CrossoVer Controls
Crossovers are groups of individual electronic
filters which allow only certain frequency ranges
to pass through them by attenuating frequencies
outside the selected range. These filters allow the
user to specify what frequency range will be sent
to the each amplifier (or channels) in a system.
This, in turn, allows each speaker system to
only reproduce a range of frequencies it is wellsuited for, resulting in reduced distortion and
improved fidelity.
Amp Filter Controls
Amplifier I
Freq. Range
Filter Slope
Input
x1 | x10
12dB | 24dB
Low
igh-Pass
95
75
60
50
t Output
er Mode
Left Ch.
! IMPORTANT
The output of the amplifier will decrease for
a given input voltage when the “Input Range”
switch is placed in the “High” position.
Conversely, the output will be higher with
the switch in the “Low” position. While this
may sound counter-intuitive, it is correct
as described.
130
Filter Mode
200
500 Off | LP | HP
Filter Freq. (Hz)
Lef
1) “Filter Mode” Control: This switch allows you
to configure the filter into one of two filter
types or to defeat it completely:
“Off”: Defeats the filter for that channel
section completely, allowing the full range of
frequencies present at the inputs to feed the
amplifier. This is useful for systems utilizing
outboard crossovers or requiring full-range
reproduction from the 300/2v2.
“LP” (Low-Pass): Configures the filter to
attenuate frequencies above the selected
filter frequency. Useful for connection of
subwoofer(s) to the 300/2v2.
“HP” (High-Pass): Configures the
filter to attenuate frequencies below
the selected filter frequency. Useful for
connection of component speakers to
the 300/2v2 in a bi-amplified system.
2) “Filter Slope” Control: This switch
allows you to select from two filter
slopes for that channel section.
“12dB”: Configures the filter to attenuate
frequencies above or below the selected
filter frequency at a rate of 12 dB per octave
(Butterworth alignment).
“24dB”: Configures the filter to attenuate
frequencies above or below the selected
filter frequency at a rate of 24 dB per octave
(Linkwitz-Riley alignment).
7
Depending on the speaker system and the
vehicle, different filter slopes may be required to
produce a smooth transition between the sound
of different speakers in the system. Experiment
to find the slope which best matches the acoustic
requirements of the system. The sharper “24dB”
setting will do a better job of protecting small
speakers with limited power handling. The
shallower “12dB” octave setting allows for greater
energy overlap with the rest of the speaker
system. In some cases, this results in better
overall response and sound quality.
PreamP outPut seCtion
The 300/2v2 incorporates a flexible preamp
output section, so that additional amplifiers can
be added to the system. This pre-amp output
can be configured three different ways using the
switch labeled “Output Mode” in the “Preamp
Output Section”.
Preamp Output Section
Amp F
Output Mode
Freq. Range
Full Range | Low-Pass | High-Pass
x1 | x10
95
75
60
50
3) “Freq. Range” Control: When thrown to
the right, this switch multiplies the cutoff
frequency selected by the rotary “Filter Freq.
(Hz)” control by a factor of 10. In the “x1”
position, the range of the rotary control is
50 - 500 Hz (as marked). In the “x10”
position, the range of the rotary control is
500 Hz - 5 kHz (5000 Hz).
4) “Filter Freq. (Hz)” The filter frequency
markings surrounding this rotary control
are for reference purposes and are generally
accurate to within 1/3 octave or better. If you
would like to select the filter cutoff frequency
with a higher level of precision, consult the
chart in Appendix B (page 13) of this manual.
Left Output
Right Output
Filter Freq
1) “Full-Range”: The preamp output delivers the
same signal that is connected to the 300/2v2’s
Amplifier Inputs.
2) “Low-Pass”: The preamp output delivers
the same signal that is connected to the
300/2v2’s Amplifier Inputs with Low-Pass
filtering applied to it at the “Filter Freq.”
and “Filter Slope” selected in the “Amplifier
Filter” section. This mode can be useful
for feeding a subwoofer amplifier when the
300/2v2 is being used to drive the main
speaker system.
sPeaker outPuts
The 300/2v2 employs JL Audio’s exclusive
Regulated, Intelligent Power Supply (R.I.P.S.)
design. This sophisticated power supply allows
the amplifier to produce its optimum power (300
watts) over a wide range of speaker impedances.
Unlike conventional amplifiers that require a
specific impedance to produce optimum power,
the R.I.P.S.-equipped 300/2v2 gives you the
freedom to use a variety of speaker configurations
that achieve final impedances between 1.5 – 4Ω
nominal per channel (without sacrificing power
output or sound quality).
The operation of the R.I.P.S. circuitry is
entirely automatic and adjusts itself every time
the amplifier is turned on according to the
lowest impedance present at the speaker outputs.
There are no user controls to configure. The
system operates through multiple stages of
impedance optimization, choosing the stage
most appropriate to the actual impedance of the
speakers you connect to it.
ection
! IMPORTANT
If you connect a load higher than 4Ω nominal
per channel in stereo mode (or 8Ω in bridged
mode), power will drop by half with every
doubling of impedance above 4Ω stereo / 8Ω
mono. If you connect a load lower than 1.5Ω
nominal per channel in stereo mode (or 3Ω in
bridged mode, the amplifier protection
circuitry activates a “safe” mode which reduces
amplifier power to protect the circuitry from
failure (the yellow “Low Ω” LED lights to
indicate that this has happened). See page 10
for details.
! IMPORTANT
Speaker loads below 1.5Ω nominal per channel
in stereo or 3Ω nominal in bridged mode are
not recommended and may cause the amplifier
output to distort excessively.
Speaker Outputs
nput Sens.
Left
t Ch.
Right
Bridged
3) “High-Pass”: The preamp output delivers
the same signal that is connected to the
300/2v2’s “Amplifier Input Section” with
High-Pass filtering applied to it at the “Filter
Freq.” and “Filter Slope” selected in the
“Amplifier Filter” section. This mode can be
useful for feeding a second satellite amplifier
when the 300/2v2 is being used to drive the
main speaker system.
Note: The signal level of the “Preamp Output”
is always low level regardless of the voltage
applied to this amplifier’s inputs and the
setting chosen on this amplifier’s “Input
Range” switch. A JL Audio amplifier receiving
signal from this preamp output should have
its “Input Range” switch set to “Low”.
8 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
9
bridging Considerations
Bridging is the practice of combining the
output of two amplifier channels to drive a single
load. When bridged, each channel produces
signals of equal magnitude, but opposite polarity.
The combined output of the two channels
provides twice the output voltage available from a
single channel. The 300/2v2 has been designed for
bridging of its channel pairs without the need for
input inversion adaptors.
nput Section
Speaker Outputs
nput Sens.
Left
ight Ch.
status indiCator ligHts /
ProteCtion CirCuitrY
There are three status indicator lights on the
top of the amplifier. These are as follows:
1) “Power” (Green): lights to indicate that the
amplifier is turned on and operating normally.
2) “Thermal” (Red): lights to indicate that
the amplifier has exceeded its safe operating
temperature, putting the amplifier into a selfprotection mode, which reduces the power
output of the amplifier. The red light will shut
off and the amplifier will return to normal,
full-power operating mode if the heat sink
temperature drops back to a safe level.
Right
Bridged
To bridge a pair of channels, use the
“Left +” and “Right –” speaker connectors
only (the “Left –” and “Right +” remain
unused). When bridged, the 300/2v2 will
deliver optimum power into a 3 - 8Ω load.
Operating a bridged 300/2v2 into a load
lower than 3Ω is not recommended.
Because a bridged pair of channels requires
that both channels receive input, you need to
connect both left and right RCA inputs to the
source unit. Connection of only one RCA input
will result in reduced power output, increased
distortion and can cause the amplifier to
overheat. Do not do this! Instead, use a
“Y-Adaptor” like the JL Audio ECS model
XB-CLRAICY-1F2M to split the mono signal into
both left and right RCA inputs to split the mono
signal into both left and right RCA inputs.
Why a mono signal? If you are bridging a
pair of channels and use a stereo input, the only
information that will reach the amplifier stage
is the common-phase portion of the signal. This
may be useful for passively deriving a centerchannel signal, but is not going to give you a
defined left or right channel. If you are looking
to reproduce a single channel’s signal, you must
split the mono signal with a “Y-Adaptor” and
connect it to both left and right RCA inputs for
the bridged channel pair.
10 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
3) “Low Ω” (Amber): lights to indicate that the
impedance of the speaker load connected
to the amplifier is lower than the optimum
impedance load range for the amplifier. When
this light is on, a protection circuit engages
and reduces the power output of the amplifier.
The amber indicator will also light when a
short-circuit is detected in the speaker wiring
(this can be a short between the positive and
negative speaker wires or between either
speaker wire and the vehicle chassis).
serViCing Your Jl audio 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:
(954) 443-1100
9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Eastern Time Zone)
Monday - Friday
There is only one condition that will shut
down an undamaged 300/2v2 completely… If
battery voltage drops below 10 volts, the entire
amplifier will shut itself off. The green “Power”
indicator on the top of the amplifier will turn
off when this occurs. The amplifier will turn
back on when voltage climbs back above 10 volts.
This may happen in a rapid cycle when bassheavy program material causes a weak charging
system to dip below 10 volts momentarily. If this
is happening in your system, have your charging
system inspected to make sure it is working
properly.
For information on troubleshooting this
amplifier, refer to Appendix D (page 14).
11
aPPendix a:
input sensitivity level setting
JL Audio amplifiers utilizing the Regulated
Intelligent Power Supply (R.I.P.S.) allow
delivery of their rated power when connected
to any load impedance from 1.5 - 4Ω per
channel and when connected to a charging
system with any voltage from 11 - 14.5V. This
design is beneficial for many reasons. One of
these reasons is ease of setup. Because each
JL Audio amplifier will always deliver the
same amount of power within its operational
range of impedances and supply voltages, the
maximum, unclipped output is very predictable.
This makes setting the gain structure via the
input sensitivity controls very simple. Following
the directions below will allow the user to adjust
the input sensitivity of the amplifier(s) 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 for that set of channels
(50 Hz for subwoofer channels, 1 kHz for
a midrange application). The CleanSweep®
Calibration Disc contains the appropriate
test tones and is available for sale at
http://store.jlaudio.com. Do not use attenuated
test tones (-10 dB, -20 dB, etc.).
the nine-step Procedure
1) Disconnect the speaker(s) from the
amplifier’s speaker output connectors.
2) Turn off all processing (bass/treble, loudness,
EQ, etc.) on the source unit, processors (if
used) and amplifier. Set fader control to center
position and subwoofer level control to 3/4 of
maximum (if used to feed the 300/2v2).
3) Switch the “Input Voltage” switch to “Low” and
turn the “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 chart 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.
12 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
6) Verify that you have disconnected the speakers
before proceeding. Play a track with an
appropriate sine wave (within the frequency
range to be amplified by the 300/2v2) at 3/4
source unit volume.
7) Connect the AC voltmeter to the speaker output
connectors of the amplifier. If the channel
pair is operating in stereo, it is only necessary
to measure one channel. If bridged, make sure
you test the voltage at the correct connectors
(L+ and R–).
8) Increase the “Input Sens.” control until the
target voltage is observed with the voltmeter.
9) Once you have adjusted the 300/2v2 to
its maximum low-distortion output level,
reconnect the speaker(s). 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.
nom.
impedance
target aC Voltage
stereo
bridged
8Ω
24 .5V
49 .0V
6Ω
24 .5V
42 .4V
4Ω
24 .5V
34 .6V
3Ω
21 .2V
30 .0V
2Ω
17 .3V
not recommended
1.5Ω
18 .0V
not recommended
aPPendix b:
Precise Frequency selection Chart
aPPendix C:
300/2v2 specifications
“Filter Freq” amP Filter
general specifications:
detent
Panel
actual
number
marking
Freq.
Full counter-clockwise: 58
01 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
02 . . . . . . . . . . . “50” . . . . . . . . . . . .58
03 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
04 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
05 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
06 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
07 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
08 . . . . . . . . . . . “60” . . . . . . . . . . . .63
09 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
14 . . . . . . . . . . . “75” . . . . . . . . . . . .77
15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
20 . . . . . . . . . . . “95” . . . . . . . . . . . .97
21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
26 . . . . . . . . . . .“130” . . . . . . . . . . . 135
27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
32 . . . . . . . . . . .“200” . . . . . . . . . . . 223
33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 289
35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337
36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404
37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 474
38 . . . . . . . . . . .“500” . . . . . . . . . . . 514
39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 525
Full-clockwise: 542
Recommended Fuse Value: 40A
Recommended Fuse Type: AFS, AGU or MaxiFuse™
input sections:
No. of Inputs: One Stereo Pair
Input Type: Differential-balanced with RCA jack inputs
Input Range: Switchable from 200mV - 2V RMS
to 800mV - 8V RMS
amplifier section:
Amplifier Topology: Class AB with patented Absolute
Symmetry™ dual N-Channel MOSFET output design
Power Supply: Independent, pulse width modulation-regulated switching power supply with multistage impedance
optimizing circuitry .
Rated Power (Stereo):
150W RMS x 2 @ 1 .5-4Ω (11V - 14 .5V)
Rated Power (Bridged):
300W RMS x 1 @ 3-8Ω (11V - 14 .5V)
THD at Rated Power: <0 .03% @ 4Ω per channel
(20 Hz-20 kHz)
Signal to Noise Ratio: >108 .5 dB referred to rated power
(A-weighted, 20 Hz-20 kHz noise bandwidth)
Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 30 kHz (+0, -1dB)
Damping Factor: >200 @ 4Ω per ch . / 50 Hz, >100 @ 2Ω
per ch . / 50 Hz
Slew Rate: ± 25V/µs
amplifier Filter:
Filter Type: State-variable, 12 dB/octave Butterworth or 24 dB/octave Linkwitz-Riley Low-Pass
or High-Pass with continuously variable cutoff
frequency from 50 - 500 Hz, switchable to a range
of 500 - 5000 Hz, via x10 switch . Defeatable .
Preamp output:
2-Channel, switch-selectable as pass-through type, tracking
High-Pass, or tracking Low-Pass linked to Amplifier Filter .
dimension (lxwxH):
13 .4" x 9 .25" x 2 .36" (340mm x 235mm x 60mm)
Due to ongoing product development, all specifications are subject to
change without notice .
13
aPPendix e: trouble sHooting
“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 “+12VDC” wire
to the “Remote” terminal to see if the amplifier turns on.
“i get a distorted / attenuated sound coming out of the speaker(s)”
Check the speaker wires for a possible short, either between the
positive and negative leads or between either speaker lead
and the vehicle’s chassis ground. If a short is present, you
will experience distorted and/or attenuated output. The
“Low Ω” light will illuminate in this situation. It may be
helpful to disconnect the speaker wires from the amplifier
and use a different set of wires connected to a test speaker.
Check the nominal load impedance to verify that each channel
of the amplifier is driving a load equal to or greater than
1.5 ohms in stereo mode (3 ohms bridged).
Check the input signal and input signal cables to make sure signal
is present at the “Amplifier Inputs” and the cables are not
pinched or loose. It may be helpful to try a different set of
cables and/or a different signal source to be sure.
“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.
14 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
“my amplifier shuts off once in a while, usually at higher volumes”
Check your voltage source and grounding point. The power supply
of the 300/2v2 will operate with charging system voltages
down to 10V. Shutdown problems at higher volume levels
can occur when the charging system voltage drops below
10V. These dips can be of very short duration making them
extremely difficult to detect with a common DC voltmeter.
To ensure proper voltage, inspect all wiring and termination
points. It may also be necessary to upgrade the ground
wire connecting the battery to the vehicle’s chassis and the
power wire connecting the alternator to the battery. Many
vehicles employ small (10 AWG - 6 AWG) wire to ground the
battery to the vehicle’s chassis and to connect the alternator 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. Grounding problems are the
leading cause of misdiagnosed amplifier “failures.”
“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 200mV 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.
15
notes
16 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
notes
17
installation notes:
Use this diagram to document your amplifier’s switch and control positions.
+12VDC
Ground Remote
Preamp Output Section
Amp Filter Controls
Amplifier Input Section
Output Mode
Freq. Range
Filter Slope
Input Voltage
Full Range | Low-Pass | High-Pass
x1 | x10
12dB | 24dB
Low | High
95
75
60
300 / 2v2
Two-Channel Full-Range Amplifier
50
Left Output
18 | JL Audio - 300/2v2 Owner’s Manual
Right Output
130
Speaker Outputs
Input Sens.
Filter Mode
200
Left
500 Off | LP | HP
Filter Freq. (Hz)
Left Ch.
Right Ch.
Right
Bridged
19
limited warrantY - amPliFiers (usa)
JL AUDIO warrants this product to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of
ninety (90) days from the original date of purchase. The warranty term is extended to two (2) years if
installation is performed or approved by an authorized JL AUDIO dealer (proof of installation or approval
required on purchase receipt).
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.
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: (954) 443-1100
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.
Absolute Symmetry™ Class A/B Amplifier Circuit is covered by U.S. Patent #6,294,959 and is pending in the
countries listed below. Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea,
Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Russian Federation, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and all other PCT countries .
300/2v2MAN-CH-03-2007
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