The JBL PRX600 Series is a line of self-powered PA loudspeakers designed for sound reinforcement applications. This series includes various models such as the PRX612M, PRX615M, PRX625, PRX635, PRX618S, and PRX618S-XLF, each tailored for specific uses, from public address to live performance and DJ applications. The PRX600 Series emphasizes versatility, scalability, portability, and affordability, integrating seamlessly to allow users to create customized sound systems.
Function Description:
The PRX600 series speakers are self-powered, meaning they include integrated multi-channel Crown Class-D power amplifiers and loudspeaker-specific DSP electronics. This "closed system" architecture ensures that all components are optimized to work together for maximum performance, efficiency, spectral balance, tone, and dependability. The speakers are designed to handle challenging audio environments, high ambient noise levels, and loud volumes. They can be used as standalone units, in stereo setups with subwoofers, or as multiple cabinets for larger sound reinforcement systems. Some models feature pole mounts for stand use and suspension points for commercial installations or houses of worship.
Important Technical Specifications:
General Amplifier Specifications (common across models):
- Design: Crown® Class D
- Dynamic Control (Input): dbx Type IV™ limiter circuit
- DSP Control: LF: 48 dB/Oct. filter slope High & Low Pass; HF: 36 dB/Oct High Pass
- Input Connectors: Balanced XLR / 1/4 inch combo jack with XLR loop through (stereo for subwoofers, mono for full-range)
- Input Impedance: 20K Ohms (balanced), 10K Ohms (unbalanced)
- Signal Indicators: Limit (Red LED for limiter active condition), Signal (Green LED for signal present)
- Power Requirements: 100V~-240V~, 50/60 Hz, with a voltage selector switch.
Model-Specific Specifications:
PRX612M (Self-powered 12", two-way, bass-reflex):
- Maximum SPL Output: 134 dB (Full Range) peak, 133 dB (Monitor) peak
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): Full Range: 50 Hz - 19.5 kHz; Monitor: 60 Hz - 19.5 kHz (vertical), 51 Hz - 19.5 kHz (monitor orientation)
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): Full Range: 60 Hz - 17.5 kHz; Monitor: 90 Hz - 18 kHz (vertical), 61 Hz - 18.5 kHz (monitor orientation)
- Power Rating: 1000 W (2 x 500)
- LF Driver: 1 x JBL 262F-1 380 mm (12 in) Differential Drive® dual voice-coil and magnetic gap, neodymium woofer
- HF Driver: 1 x JBL 2408H 37.5 mm (1.5 in) annular polymer diaphragm, neodymium compression driver
- Coverage Pattern: 90° x 50° nominal
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 592 mm x 353 mm x 340 mm (23.3 in x 13.9 in x 13.4 in)
- Net Weight: 15.6 kg (34.5 lb)
PRX615M (Self-powered 15", two-way, bass-reflex):
- Maximum SPL Output: 135 dB (Full Range) peak, 134 dB (Monitor) peak
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): Full Range: 45 Hz - 19 kHz; Monitor: 55 Hz - 19 kHz (vertical), 48 Hz - 20 kHz (monitor orientation)
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): Full Range: 54 Hz - 18 kHz; Monitor: 75 Hz - 18.5 kHz (vertical), 60 Hz - 18 kHz (monitor orientation)
- Power Rating: 1000 W (2 x 500)
- LF Driver: 1 x JBL 265F-1 380 mm (15 in) Differential Drive® dual voice-coil and magnetic gap, neodymium woofer
- HF Driver: 1 x JBL 2408H 37.5 mm (1.5 in) annular polymer diaphragm, neodymium compression driver
- Coverage Pattern: 90° x 50° nominal
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 660 mm x 429 mm x 414 mm (26 in x 16.9 in x 16.3 in)
- Net Weight: 19.7 kg (43.5 lb)
PRX625 (Self-powered dual 15", two-way, bass-reflex):
- Maximum SPL Output: 139 dB peak
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): Flat: 40 Hz - 19.5 kHz; Boost: 39 Hz - 19.5 kHz
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): Flat: 55 Hz - 17.5 kHz; Boost: 50 Hz - 18 kHz
- Power Rating: 1500 W (3 x 500)
- LF Driver: 2 x JBL 265F-1 380 mm (15 in) Differential Drive® dual voice-coil and magnetic gap, neodymium woofer
- HF Driver: 1 x JBL 2408H-1 37.5 mm (1.5 in) annular polymer diaphragm, neodymium compression driver
- Coverage Pattern: 90° x 50° nominal
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 1053 mm x 430 mm x 413 mm (41.47 in x 16.9 in x 16.27 in)
- Net Weight: 27.2 kg (60 lb)
PRX635 (Self-powered 15", three-way, bass-reflex):
- Maximum SPL Output: 135 dB peak
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): Flat: 41 Hz - 19 kHz; Boost: 40 Hz - 19 kHz
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): Flat: 53 Hz - 18 kHz; Boost: 50 Hz - 18 kHz
- Power Rating: 1500 W (3 x 500)
- LF Driver: 1 x JBL 265F-1 380 mm (15 in) Differential Drive® dual voice-coil and magnetic gap, neodymium woofer
- MF Driver: 1 x JBL 195H 165 mm (6.5 in) horn-loaded midrange transducer
- HF Driver: 1 x JBL 2414H 25.4 mm (1 in) annular polymer diaphragm, neodymium compression driver
- Coverage Pattern: 90° x 50° nominal
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 921 mm x 429 mm x 413 mm (36.29 in x 16.9 in x 16.27 in)
- Net Weight: 27.2 kg (60 lb)
PRX618S (Self-powered 18", bass-reflex subwoofer):
- Maximum SPL Output: 129 dB peak
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): 41 Hz - 130 Hz
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): 50 Hz - 100 Hz
- Power Rating: 600 W
- LF Driver: 268G 460 mm (18 in) Differential Drive® dual voice-coil and magnetic gap, neodymium woofer
- Crossover Frequency: 120 Hz
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 685.8 mm x 530.9 mm x 614.7 mm (27.0 in x 20.9 in x 24.2 in)
- Net Weight: 32 kg (70.5 lb)
PRX618S-XLF (Self-powered 18", bass-reflex subwoofer):
- Maximum SPL Output: 133 dB peak
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): 30 Hz - 105 Hz
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): 39 Hz - 93 Hz
- Power Rating: 1000 W (2 x 500)
- LF Driver: 460 mm (18 in) Differential Drive® dual voice-coil and magnetic gap, neodymium woofer
- Crossover Frequency: 90 Hz
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 685.8 mm x 530.9 mm x 716.3 mm (27.0 in x 20.9 in x 28.2 in)
- Net Weight: 37 kg (81.5 lb)
Usage Features:
- Road Tough Construction: Cabinets are built from a combination of 25mm (top and bottom for rigidity) and 18mm poplar plywood, reinforced with tongue and groove joints. They are protected by JBL's DuraFlex™ finish. Grilles are made from dent-resistant 16 gauge steel, and handles are lightweight glass-filled nylon. M10 suspension points are constructed from 14 gauge steel and tested for high yield-strength.
- Input Sensitivity (Mic/Line): Allows direct connection of various sources, including microphones, instruments, and consumer products (MP3/CD players), without an external mixer or pre-amplifier. Users can select between "Mic" and "Line" input sensitivities.
- Level Control: Adjusts sound level. For "MIC" input, a large range is available. For "LINE" input, 12 o'clock is a typical starting point.
- EQ Presets (Boost/Flat): Full-range models (PRX612M, PRX615M, PRX625, PRX635) offer "FLAT" for linear frequency response and "BOOST" for enhanced low and high frequencies, useful for pre-recorded music at lower levels.
- Main/Monitor Optimization (PRX612M, PRX615M): A switch optimizes the system for use as either a main full-range system or a stage monitor.
- Subwoofer Features (PRX618S, PRX618S-XLF):
- XOVER IN/OUT: Engages a high-pass filter for smooth transition between the subwoofer and a full-range speaker connected to the output.
- Polarity Invert: Allows setting subwoofer polarity to Normal (0°) or Reverse (180°) to optimize bass response and blend with full-range speakers, especially when placed at different distances.
- Speaker Level Input (PRX618S): 1/4" TS phone jack for connecting an amplifier's speaker level output or a powered mixer to the internal amplifier.
- Daisy Chaining: XLR output connectors provide a full-range signal for daisy-chaining multiple speakers or a high-passed signal from subwoofers to full-range systems.
- Safety Features: Includes a LIMITER (Red LED) to indicate system overload protection and prevent clipping, and a SIGNAL (Green LED) to confirm signal presence.
- Mounting Options: Dual 36 mm pole sockets (full-range models and PRX618S) and M10 suspension points for flexible installation. The PRX635 can be pole-mounted on a PRX600 subwoofer using a specific pole length.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: Systems can be cleaned with a dry cloth. Ensure the system is unplugged from the AC outlet before cleaning.
- DuraFlex™ Finish Touch-Up: A touch-up kit (part number 363972-001) is available from JBL Professional if the finish is damaged.
- Voltage Selector: Allows users to adjust the voltage setting (115V or 230V) to match local power mains. This must be done with the speaker powered off and AC disconnected.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting section for common issues like no sound, distorted sound, feedback, and noise, offering likely causes and solutions.
- Warranty Information: JBL provides a limited warranty: five years for professional loudspeaker products (excluding enclosures), three years for amplifiers, and two years for enclosures and other JBL products. Warranty service requires the original dated bill of sale.
- Rigging Inspection: Suspension systems require regular inspection for fatigue, cracks, deformations, corrosion, or damaged parts. Load-rated hardware must be used for suspension.
Safety Precautions:
- Avoid exposing speakers to high moisture or direct, intense sunlight.
- Ensure proper AC power and earth grounding.
- Always power up speaker systems last and power down first in a PA system chain.
- Do not operate with the wrong voltage selected.
- Ensure adequate cooling and shade to prevent overheating.
- Observe stand mounting safety precautions, including verifying stand specifications, placing on stable surfaces, routing cables safely, inspecting equipment, and avoiding overloading.
- For suspension, consult JBL Technical Note Volume 1, Number 14, and seek advice from a licensed mechanical or structural engineer. Use only load-rated hardware and inspect all components regularly.
- Be aware of high SPLs that can cause permanent hearing damage and avoid prolonged exposure to levels exceeding 90 dB.
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