The JBL Stage A6002/A6004/A9004/A3001 series of amplifiers are designed to provide high-performance audio for automotive applications, delivering the power and channel configurations necessary for both full-range speakers and subwoofers. These amplifiers are engineered to offer a satisfying audio experience for car enthusiasts, building on decades of JBL's expertise in sound.
Function Description:
The JBL Stage amplifiers serve as the core of a car audio system, boosting the low-level audio signals from a source unit (like a car stereo) to a level powerful enough to drive loudspeakers and subwoofers. They are available in various configurations:
- Stage A6002: A 2-channel amplifier, ideal for powering a pair of full-range speakers or a single subwoofer in bridged mode.
- Stage A6004: A 4-channel amplifier, suitable for powering four full-range speakers, two pairs of component speakers, or two subwoofers in bridged mode, or a combination of speakers and a subwoofer.
- Stage A9004: A more powerful 4-channel amplifier, offering higher output for demanding speaker systems or subwoofers.
- Stage A3001: A mono (1-channel) amplifier specifically designed for driving subwoofers, providing dedicated power for deep bass reproduction.
All models are equipped with essential inputs and user controls to allow for sound customization and optimal performance within different vehicle environments.
Usage Features:
The JBL Stage amplifiers offer a range of features designed for flexibility and sound tailoring:
- Input Level Control (Gain): This control allows users to match the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output level of their source unit. Proper gain setting is crucial to prevent distortion and ensure the amplifier operates efficiently. The manual provides a step-by-step procedure for setting the input levels, recommending starting with minimum gain, playing dynamic music, and gradually increasing the gain until distortion is heard, then backing off slightly. This process ensures a clean audio signal.
- High-Level and Line-Level Inputs: The amplifiers support both high-level (speaker-level) and line-level (RCA) inputs. High-level inputs are particularly useful when the car's head unit does not have dedicated RCA preamp outputs, allowing the amplifier to connect directly to the vehicle's speaker wires. Adapters are included for high-level connections. Line-level inputs are used when the source unit provides RCA outputs, offering a cleaner signal path.
- Crossover Filters (LPF, HPF, FULL): These filters allow users to direct specific frequency ranges to the appropriate speakers, optimizing sound quality and protecting speakers from frequencies they are not designed to reproduce.
- LPF (Low-Pass Filter): Used for subwoofers or mid-bass speakers, allowing only low frequencies to pass through.
- HPF (High-Pass Filter): Used for full-range or midrange speakers, preventing low bass frequencies from reaching them.
- FULL (Full Range): Allows the full spectrum of frequencies to pass, suitable for full-range speakers when no subwoofer is used.
- Crossover Frequency Controls: Dials allow for precise adjustment of the crossover point, enabling users to fine-tune the frequency cutoff based on their listening preferences and speaker characteristics. (Note: The Stage A3001 is low-pass only.)
- Bass EQ Control: This feature allows users to boost bass output by up to +12dB, with adjustable center frequencies (40Hz or 100Hz for the A3001). This is a valuable tool for optimizing subwoofer and loudspeaker performance based on their location and enclosure type, helping to achieve a more impactful bass response.
- Subwoofer Phase Selector (Stage A3001 only): This control allows users to select between 0° and 180° phase output for the subwoofer. Adjusting the phase can significantly improve bass integration with other speakers in the system, ensuring that the subwoofer's output aligns acoustically with the rest of the audio. The manual suggests a listening test to determine the optimal setting.
- Compact Footprint: The amplifiers are designed with a small, compact form factor, making them easier to install in various vehicle locations, which is increasingly important given the limited space in modern cars.
- Cool Industrial Design: Featuring a black finish with deep grooves, silver silkscreen, an anodized JBL badge, and orange end panels, these amplifiers boast an aesthetically pleasing design.
Maintenance Features:
The JBL Stage amplifiers are built with reliability and protection in mind, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
- Full On-Board Protection: The amplifiers incorporate circuitry to protect against common issues such as short circuits, excessive temperature, overvoltage, and undervoltage. An LED indicator (Power/Protect) on all models illuminates blue during normal operation and red if the amplifier enters protect mode due to one of these conditions. This visual cue helps users quickly identify potential problems.
- Fuse Protection: Each amplifier is equipped with fuses (or multiple fuses for multi-channel models) to protect the unit and the vehicle's electrical system from overcurrent. The manual explicitly states to replace fuses only with the same type and amperage as the original, which is a critical safety and maintenance instruction. Spare fuses are included with the amplifiers.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section that addresses common issues like no audio, flashing protect indicators, distorted audio, and engine noise. It provides potential causes and solutions, empowering users to diagnose and resolve minor problems without professional assistance. This includes checking power connections, speaker impedance, gain settings, and wiring for shorts.
- Mounting Guidelines: Proper mounting is emphasized to ensure adequate air circulation for cooling and to protect the amplifier from physical damage. The manual advises against mounting with the heat sink facing downward and recommends choosing a location away from moisture and shifting cargo. It also provides instructions for marking and drilling pilot holes for secure installation.
- Wiring Precautions: Detailed precautions are outlined for electrical connections, including disconnecting the vehicle's negative battery terminal before installation, wearing protective eyewear, ensuring secure and properly insulated connections, and using appropriate wire gauges. These guidelines are crucial for safe installation and long-term reliability.
- Quality Construction: JBL's commitment to quality is highlighted, with arduous testing and quality control processes ensuring that the amplifiers provide a world-class experience that lasts.
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