The JBL Commercial Series Amplifiers, including models CSA 1300Z and CSA 2300Z, are professional audio tools designed for installed sound applications. These amplifiers offer either single or two-channel outputs and are equipped with integrated output transformers to drive 70V or 100V speaker systems, making them ideal for commercial and industrial use.
Function Description:
The amplifiers provide amplification for audio signals, with a choice of low impedance, 70V, or 100V outputs. They can be expanded with additional JBL Commercial Series Mixers and Mixer-Amplifiers. Each output channel features independent Bass and Treble controls. Remote volume control is possible using a JBL CSR-V control module connected via a standard Ethernet cable to the RJ-45 connector on the rear panel. For the CSA 2300Z, there are two RJ-45 connectors, one for each amplifier output. Additionally, the amplifiers support RS232 control for volume, mute, and sleep mode, accessible via the Channel 1 connector on the CSA 2300Z. The units utilize Crown's DriveCore™ technology, ensuring excellent audio performance with high efficiency.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Rated Power: 300W into 4 Ω or 8 Ω (1kHz, ≤ 0.5% THD) for both CSA 1300Z and CSA 2300Z.
- Number of Output Channels: 1 for CSA 1300Z, 2 for CSA 2300Z.
- Insertion Loss (70V & 100V outputs): 1 dB maximum.
- Input Sensitivity (8 Ω Load): Balanced line input: 775mVRMS; RCA Mono Sum input: 300mVRMS.
- Frequency Response (80, 20Hz - 20kHz, tone controls set to flat response): +/- 1.0 dB.
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) (@ Full rated power, 20Hz-20kHz): <0.5%.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Ref. rated output, 22KHz BW, A-weighted): >97dB.
- Input Impedance (nominal): Euro Block: 20 KΩ (balanced); RCA: 10 KΩ.
- Maximum Input Level: +22dBu (Nominal).
- Crosstalk (Ref. rated power, A-weighted, 1kHz): <-70 dB.
- Tone Controls: Bass +/-12dB @100Hz, Treble +/-12dB @10kHz (non-detented potentiometers on each channel).
- Nominal AC Line Voltages: 100V, 120V, 220V, 230-240V, 50/60 Hz.
- Minimum Load Impedance:
- Low-Z Output: 4 Ω
- 70V Output: 12 Ω
- 100V Output: 24 Ω
- Operating Temperature/Humidity: 0°C to 35°C @ 95% R.H. (non-condensing).
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 85°C.
- Dimensions: Width: 17.0 in. (432 mm), Depth: 10.8 in. (274 mm), Height: 3.5 in. (89 mm).
- Net Weight (preliminary estimate): CSA 1300Z: 13.1 lb (5.95 kg); CSA 2300Z: 17.8 lb (8.05 kg).
- Shipping Weight: CSA 1300Z: 16.4 lb (7.45 kg); CSA 2300Z: 20.6 lb (9.35 kg).
Usage Features:
The front panel includes an output volume control with an illuminated ring that lights green for signal presence and red for clipping. A power switch is also present, with an illuminated ring indicating blue for normal operation and green for sleep mode (via RS232 control). Tone controls (Bass and Treble potentiometers) are provided for each output channel.
Rear panel features include a circuit breaker reset switch, a detachable IEC AC power inlet, and a 70V/100V switch. This switch enables the 70V and 100V outputs and activates a 70Hz high-pass filter, which is beneficial when driving high-impedance speakers by preventing potentially damaging subsonic signals. Amplifier output connectors are barrier strips. Input connectors include dual RCA for stereo, unbalanced sources (which are summed to mono), and 3-pin Euro-block connectors for balanced inputs.
For installation, the amplifiers can be rack-mounted using the included kit or placed on a surface, with rubber feet provided. Proper cooling requires a minimum of 4 inches (10cm) of air space above the unit and 2 inches (5cm) from side walls, with the back of the rack open.
Input wiring should ideally use balanced line (two-conductor plus shield) 22-24 gauge cables with Euro-block connectors. RCA connectors can be used for devices like CD/DVD players, but Euro-block and RCA inputs should not be used concurrently on the same channel. Output wiring to speakers should use high-quality, two-conductor, heavy gauge twisted speaker wire, stripped back no more than 6 mm (1/4 inch). Wire gauge recommendations are provided based on distance (e.g., 16AWG for up to 25 ft, 14AWG for 26-40 ft).
The startup procedure involves turning down audio source and amplifier level controls, powering up the amplifier (power ring illuminates blue), then gradually increasing audio source and amplifier levels to desired loudness.
Maintenance Features:
The amplifier is designed with internal and external fault protection. A built-in clip limiter prevents clipping, which can damage high-frequency drivers. The 70Hz high-pass filter, activated in HI-Z mode, protects speakers from damaging subsonic signals. The unit should be operated in a well-ventilated environment, with ambient temperatures not exceeding 40°C, to prevent thermal limiting and audio compression. The manual emphasizes that there are no user-serviceable parts inside the unit, and opening the chassis voids the manufacturer's warranty. All servicing should be referred to qualified personnel. In case of shipping damage, the transportation company should be notified immediately, and all packing materials should be saved. The product comes with a 3-Year Warranty in the United States.