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Diagrams and explanation for wiring the subwoofer's voice coils in series for various impedance loads.
Diagrams and explanation for wiring the subwoofer's voice coils in parallel for various impedance loads.
Details on net internal volume, external dimensions, and tuning for a recommended sealed enclosure.
Guidance on optimal power levels for the subwoofer driver, categorized by performance and warranty.
Details of the limited warranty for automotive subwoofer components, including coverage and exclusions.
Diagrams and explanation for wiring the subwoofer's voice coils in series for various impedance loads.
Diagrams and explanation for wiring the subwoofer's voice coils in parallel for various impedance loads.
Details on net internal volume, external dimensions, and tuning for a recommended sealed enclosure.
Guidance on optimal power levels for the subwoofer driver, categorized by performance and warranty.
Details of the limited warranty for automotive subwoofer components, including coverage and exclusions.
The JL Audio 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver is a precision loudspeaker engineered to deliver high-quality sub-bass performance in a vehicle. This owner's manual provides essential information for understanding, installing, and maintaining the subwoofer to ensure optimal sound reproduction and longevity.
The 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver is designed to reproduce low-frequency audio signals, commonly known as sub-bass, which are crucial for a full and impactful audio experience. As a component subwoofer, it requires integration into a custom-built enclosure to function correctly. The manual emphasizes that authorized JL Audio dealers possess the technical information, knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to construct a high-quality enclosure that maximizes the speaker's performance.
The subwoofer features a dual voice coil design, which is a key aspect of its functionality and wiring flexibility. Both voice coils must be properly connected to the amplifier (either in series or parallel) for the speaker to operate correctly. Each TW3 subwoofer includes a pair of main input connection push-terminals for each voice coil, allowing users to configure connections based on desired load impedance. The manual provides detailed wiring diagrams to guide users in achieving the correct impedance for their amplifier.
The manual outlines two recommended enclosure types: sealed and ported. Both designs are capable of delivering excellent sound quality and low-frequency extension. A sealed enclosure is suggested for situations where space is limited, while a ported enclosure, though requiring more space, can yield an additional 3dB of output at the same power. However, it's explicitly stated that a ported/vented enclosure is NOT RECOMMENDED for the 12TW3-D4 Subwoofer Driver, indicating a specific design preference for this model. The recommended sealed enclosure dimensions are provided, along with the resulting F3, Fc, and Qtc values, which are critical parameters for enclosure design.
The subwoofer is intended to be part of a bi-amplified system, utilizing high-quality satellite speakers and amplifiers. The manual strongly advises against using this subwoofer with a passive crossover (coil), as such a device would negatively impact performance. This highlights the importance of active crossovers and proper system integration for optimal sound quality.
The 12TW3 Subwoofer Driver offers flexibility in wiring configurations due to its dual voice coil design. The manual illustrates various wiring options for multiple speakers in both series and parallel configurations, allowing users to achieve different impedance loads (e.g., 8Ω, 4Ω, 2.7Ω, 2Ω, 1Ω, 0.7Ω) depending on their amplifier's capabilities and system requirements. This flexibility enables users to optimize their system's power delivery and performance.
The manual provides clear guidelines for enclosure construction, including external dimensions and the assumption of 3/4" (19mm) thick material. It also offers advice for adjusting dimensions if 5/8" (16mm) thick material is used, and explicitly warns against using material thinner than 5/8" (16mm) to maintain enclosure rigidity. The importance of net internal volumes is stressed, reminding users to account for box, port, and brace displacement when calculating the final gross internal volume. For systems with two subwoofers, the recommendation is to simply double the required enclosure volume.
A crucial usage feature is the recommended continuous (RMS) power range, which is divided into four zones: Medium Gray (Minimum), Light Gray (Optimum), Dark Gray (Maximum), and Black (Warranty Void). These zones guide users on appropriate amplifier power levels to ensure long-term reliability, high output, and low distortion. The "Optimum" zone represents the best balance, while the "Maximum" zone allows for slightly more SPL with caution. Operating the subwoofer in the "Black (Warranty Void)" zone is strongly discouraged due to high risk of failure from excessive heat and/or mechanical stress, and such operation voids the warranty. This detailed power range guidance helps users protect their investment and enjoy consistent performance.
The manual also includes a "CAUTION" section, emphasizing the importance of securing the subwoofer enclosure firmly within the vehicle. It recommends bolting the enclosure through the metal of the floorpan or frame with large diameter washers for reinforcement. This is a critical safety feature, as an unsecured enclosure can become a dangerous projectile in a collision, particularly in vehicles like hatchbacks, station wagons, sports utility vehicles, or vans.
While the manual does not detail specific routine maintenance tasks for the subwoofer driver itself, it provides crucial information regarding warranty and service, which are integral to maintaining the device's functionality and value over time.
The JL Audio Limited Warranty (USA) covers the speaker for one year from the original purchase date against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is a key maintenance feature, as it ensures that manufacturing defects or malfunctions will be addressed by JL Audio at no charge, either through repair or replacement with new or remanufactured products.
However, the warranty explicitly excludes damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, product modification or neglect, failure to follow installation instructions, unauthorized repair attempts, misrepresentations by the seller, incidental or consequential damages, and cosmetic damage due to accident or normal wear and tear. This highlights the importance of proper installation, careful handling, and adherence to the manual's guidelines to avoid voiding the warranty.
The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser from an authorized JL Audio dealer. Furthermore, the warranty is voided if the factory-applied product serial number is removed or defaced, underscoring the importance of preserving the product's identification.
For service needs, the manual instructs users to send all warranty returns freight prepaid through an authorized JL Audio dealer, accompanied by proof of purchase (the original sales receipt). Direct returns from consumers or non-authorized dealers are refused without specific authorization. This structured service process ensures that legitimate warranty claims are handled efficiently and correctly. Customers are responsible for shipping charges and insurance when sending the product for service, as freight damage during return is not covered under warranty.
In summary, the maintenance features primarily revolve around understanding and adhering to the warranty terms, ensuring proper installation and usage to prevent damage, and following the specified procedures for obtaining service if necessary. The emphasis on authorized dealers for both enclosure construction and warranty service reinforces the importance of professional expertise in maximizing the subwoofer's lifespan and performance.
General| Driver Size | 12 inches |
|---|---|
| RMS Power Handling | 400 watts |
| Peak Power Handling | 800 watts |
| Frequency Response | 22 Hz - 200 Hz |
| Voice Coil Configuration | Dual Voice Coil |
| Impedance | 4 ohms |
| Mounting Depth | 3.25 inches |
| Nominal Impedance | 4 ohms |
