JL Audio 12TW3-D4 - User Manual

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Summary

12 TW3 Dual Voice Coil Wiring

Voice Coils Wired in Series

Diagram and explanation for wiring voice coils in series for parallel speaker connection.

Voice Coils Wired in Parallel

Diagram and explanation for wiring voice coils in parallel for parallel speaker connection.

Recommended Power Range

Minimum Power Level

Describes the minimum power level for comfortable operation, not maximizing performance.

Optimum Power Level

Best compromise between reliability, high output, and low distortion.

Maximum Power Level

Higher SPL gain with slight risk; driver designed for this range but use with caution.

Warranty Void Power Level

Operating at this power level risks driver failure and voids warranty.

JL Audio Limited Warranty (USA)

Service Information

Procedure for obtaining warranty service and return authorization.

Summary

12 TW3 Dual Voice Coil Wiring

Voice Coils Wired in Series

Diagram and explanation for wiring voice coils in series for parallel speaker connection.

Voice Coils Wired in Parallel

Diagram and explanation for wiring voice coils in parallel for parallel speaker connection.

Recommended Power Range

Minimum Power Level

Describes the minimum power level for comfortable operation, not maximizing performance.

Optimum Power Level

Best compromise between reliability, high output, and low distortion.

Maximum Power Level

Higher SPL gain with slight risk; driver designed for this range but use with caution.

Warranty Void Power Level

Operating at this power level risks driver failure and voids warranty.

JL Audio Limited Warranty (USA)

Service Information

Procedure for obtaining warranty service and return authorization.

The JL Audio 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver is a precision loudspeaker engineered to deliver high-quality sub-bass performance in a vehicle. This component is designed to be integrated into a custom enclosure, which is crucial for maximizing its performance. The manufacturer strongly recommends having the enclosure built by an authorized JL Audio dealer, as they possess the necessary technical information, knowledge, skills, and tools to ensure optimal results.

Function Description:

The 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver's primary function is to reproduce low-frequency audio (sub-bass) with exceptional clarity and power. It is a dual voice coil driver, meaning it has two separate voice coils that must both be connected to an amplifier for proper operation. These voice coils can be wired in series or parallel, depending on the desired impedance load for the amplifier. This flexibility allows for various wiring configurations to match different amplifier setups and achieve the desired sound output. The subwoofer is designed to work within a specific power range to ensure both optimal performance and long-term reliability. Operating the subwoofer within the recommended power range (light gray zone) provides the best compromise between high output, low distortion, and durability. Pushing the power into the dark gray zone can yield slightly more SPL but should be done with caution, as it increases the risk of mechanical stress or heat-related failure. Operating in the black (warranty void) zone is strongly discouraged due to a high probability of driver failure, which is not covered under warranty.

Usage Features:

The 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver offers versatility in enclosure design, with recommendations for both sealed and ported enclosures.

Sealed Enclosures: These are a good choice when space is extremely limited. They provide excellent sound quality and low-frequency extension, often characterized by tight, accurate bass. The manual provides specific external dimensions for sealed enclosures for both the 12TW3-D4 and 12TW3-D8 models, assuming the use of 3/4" (19mm) thick material. Adjustments are necessary if using 5/8" (16mm) thick material.
Ported Enclosures: If more space is available, a ported enclosure can produce approximately 3dB more output at the same power level compared to a sealed enclosure. This design typically offers a louder, more impactful bass response. The manual includes external dimensions and slot port internal dimensions (slot width, height, and length) for ported enclosures for both models. Similar to sealed enclosures, material thickness considerations apply.
Bi-Amplified Systems: The manufacturer recommends using this speaker in a bi-amplified system, paired with high-quality satellite speakers and amplifiers. This setup allows for dedicated amplification of the subwoofer, optimizing its performance.
Passive Crossovers: The use of a passive crossover (coil) with this subwoofer is not recommended, as it can adversely affect performance.
Multiple Subwoofers: When using two subwoofers in a common enclosure, the required volume should simply be doubled.
Secure Installation: It is critically important to firmly secure the subwoofer enclosure within the vehicle. The manual recommends bolting the enclosure through the metal floorpan or vehicle frame using large diameter washers for reinforcement. An unsecured enclosure can become a dangerous projectile in a collision, especially in hatchbacks, station wagons, sports utility vehicles, or vans.
Voice Coil Wiring: Both voice coils must be connected to the amplifier. The manual provides diagrams for wiring voice coils in series and parallel, as well as configurations for multiple speakers wired in parallel. This ensures the correct impedance load for the amplifier and proper operation of the speaker. Connecting only one voice coil will void all warranties.

Maintenance Features:

The 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver is designed for durability, but proper usage is key to its longevity.

Power Management: Adhering to the recommended continuous (RMS) power range is the most important maintenance aspect. Operating the subwoofer within the "light gray" (optimum) zone ensures long-term reliability, high output, and low distortion. Exceeding this power range, particularly into the "black" (warranty void) zone, significantly increases the risk of failure due to excessive heat and/or mechanical stress. Users should ensure a good power match between the subwoofer amplifier and the subwoofer driver's capabilities, factoring in system impedance and the total number of subwoofers.
Enclosure Material: The enclosure recommendations assume the use of 3/4" (19mm) thick material. If using 5/8" (16mm) thick material, dimensions need to be adjusted. Using material thinner than 5/8" (16mm) is not recommended as it can compromise the rigidity and integrity of the enclosure, potentially affecting sound quality and driver protection.
Hearing Protection: Prolonged exposure to sound pressure levels exceeding 100dB can cause permanent hearing loss. As this high-performance speaker can easily exceed such levels, users are advised to exercise restraint in its operation to preserve their hearing.
Warranty: The product comes with a one-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship from the original purchase date. This warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser from an authorized JL Audio dealer. It is voided if the factory-applied serial number is removed or defaced. Damage resulting from accidents, misuse, abuse, product modification, neglect, failure to follow installation instructions, unauthorized repair attempts, or misrepresentations by the seller is not covered. Cosmetic damage due to accident or normal wear and tear is also excluded. For warranty service, products must be sent freight prepaid through an authorized JL Audio dealer with proof of purchase. Direct returns from consumers or non-authorized dealers will be refused unless specifically authorized by JL Audio.

JL Audio 12TW3-D4 Specifications

General

Impedance	4 ohms
Voice Coil Configuration	Dual Voice Coil
Power Handling (RMS)	400 W
Power Handling (Peak)	800 W
Nominal Diameter	12 inches
Voice Coil Diameter	2.5 inch
Cutout Diameter	11.125 inches
Sealed Enclosure Volume (Minimum)	0.5 ft³
Sealed Enclosure Volume (Maximum)	1.0 ft³
Ported Enclosure Volume	1.25 cu ft / 35.4 L
Xmax (One-Way Linear Excursion)	0.5 inches
Type	Subwoofer