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Diagram illustrating the construction and key components of the WØ subwoofer driver.
Important safety, material, and operational guidelines for building and using enclosures.
Defines optimal, minimum, and maximum power levels for subwoofer operation and warranty.
Details warranty coverage, exclusions, and procedures for service and repair.
Diagram illustrating the construction and key components of the WØ subwoofer driver.
Important safety, material, and operational guidelines for building and using enclosures.
Defines optimal, minimum, and maximum power levels for subwoofer operation and warranty.
Details warranty coverage, exclusions, and procedures for service and repair.
This document serves as an owner's manual for JL Audio 6WØ and 8WØ series subwoofer components, designed to provide high-quality sub-bass performance in vehicles. The manual emphasizes the importance of proper installation and enclosure construction to maximize the speaker's performance and ensure warranty validity.
The JL Audio 6WØ and 8WØ subwoofers are precision loudspeakers engineered to deliver superior sub-bass performance in automotive audio systems. These components are designed to reproduce low-frequency sounds with clarity and power, enhancing the overall audio experience in a vehicle. The subwoofers are intended to be integrated into custom enclosures, which are crucial for their optimal operation. The manual provides detailed guidelines for constructing two types of enclosures: sealed and ported. Both designs aim to offer excellent sound quality and low-frequency extension. The sealed enclosure is recommended for situations where space is limited, while the ported enclosure can achieve 3dB more output at the same power if sufficient space is available. The subwoofers feature advanced design elements such as a large diameter, progressive roll flat spider for mechanical control and alignment, a massive six-layer (or eight-layer for the 122 WØ) voice coil on Kapton® former for superior thermal power handling, and a patented "VRC" vented reinforcement collar that enhances structural integrity and voice coil cooling. A sealed polypropylene dust cap and a large roll foam surround contribute to the speaker's durability and ability to handle high excursions, ensuring superior centering and longevity.
To achieve the best performance and ensure the longevity of the JL Audio subwoofer, several usage features and recommendations are highlighted. The manual strongly advises having the enclosure built by an authorized JL Audio dealer, as they possess the necessary technical information, knowledge, skills, and tools for high-quality construction. If the user chooses to build the enclosure themselves, the construction must be inspected and approved by an authorized JL Audio dealer for the 1-year limited warranty to remain valid. The manual provides detailed external dimensions for both sealed and ported enclosures, assuming the use of 3/4" (19mm) thick material. It specifies that if 5/8" (16mm) thick material is used, dimensions should be adjusted accordingly, and material thinner than 5/8" (16mm) should not be used to avoid compromising enclosure rigidity. All listed enclosure volumes are net internal volumes, meaning driver displacement, port displacement, and brace displacement have already been accounted for. When using multiple subwoofers in a common enclosure, recalculation of enclosure and port dimensions is necessary, and users are encouraged to contact their authorized JL Audio dealer or technical support for assistance.
The subwoofers are designed for use in a bi-amplified system, utilizing high-quality satellite speakers and a high-quality amplifier. The manual explicitly discourages the use of a passive crossover (coil) with these subwoofers, as it can adversely affect performance. Proper power matching between the subwoofer amplifier and the subwoofer driver's capabilities is crucial. The manual includes a "Recommended Continuous (RMS) Power Range" chart, categorizing power levels into "Medium Gray (Minimum)," "Light Gray (Optimum)," "Dark Gray (Maximum)," and "Black (Warranty Void)." The "Light Gray (Optimum)" zone represents the ideal balance between long-term reliability, high output, and low distortion, aligning with the subwoofer's continuous power rating. Operating within this range ensures full advantage of the woofer's performance without undue risk of failure. The "Dark Gray (Maximum)" zone offers slightly more SPL but at the cost of compromised reliability and increased likelihood of driver failure, requiring caution. The "Black (Warranty Void)" zone indicates power levels that are not recommended and will void the warranty due to a high probability of driver failure from excessive heat and/or mechanical stress. Users are advised to regularly make full use of the recommended power without drastically overdriving the amplifier(s), and to factor in system impedance and the total number of subwoofers into their calculations.
The manual emphasizes several aspects related to maintenance and warranty to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the JL Audio subwoofers. The product comes with a limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the original purchase date, provided installation is performed or approved by an authorized JL Audio dealer and documented on the sales receipt. If this condition is not met, the warranty term is reduced to ninety days. This warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser from an authorized dealer. Should service be required due to a manufacturing defect or malfunction, JL Audio will, at its discretion, repair or replace the defective product at no charge.
However, the warranty does not cover damage resulting from accidents, misuse, abuse, product modification or neglect, failure to follow installation instructions, unauthorized repair attempts, or misrepresentations by the seller. Incidental or consequential damages, as well as the cost of removing or reinstalling the unit(s), are also not covered. Cosmetic damage due to accidents or normal wear and tear is excluded from warranty coverage. Any applicable implied warranties are limited to the duration of the express warranty provided.
For warranty service, all returns must be sent freight prepaid through an authorized JL Audio dealer and must be accompanied by proof of purchase (a copy of the original sales receipt). Direct returns from consumers or non-authorized dealers will be refused unless specifically authorized by JL Audio with a valid return authorization number. Warranty expiration for products returned without proof of purchase will be determined from the manufacturing date code, which may invalidate coverage if it precedes the purchase date. Only defective components should be returned; non-defective items will be returned freight-collect. Customers are responsible for shipping charges and insurance when sending the product to JL Audio, as freight damage on returns is not covered under warranty. Always include the sales receipt as proof of purchase.
Furthermore, during installation, it is extremely important to firmly secure the enclosure within the vehicle. The manual recommends bolting the enclosure through the metal of the floorpan or the vehicle frame, using large diameter washers for reinforcement. Failure to firmly attach the enclosure can result in it becoming a projectile in a collision, which is particularly critical in hatchbacks, station wagons, sports utility vehicles, or vans. Prolonged exposure to sound pressure levels exceeding 100dB can cause permanent hearing loss, so users are advised to exercise restraint in operation to preserve their ability to enjoy the fidelity of the sound. All specifications are subject to change without notice, indicating that users should refer to the most current information available from JL Audio.
General| Type | Subwoofer |
|---|---|
| Nominal Diameter | 8 inches |
| Impedance | 4 ohms |
| Voice Coil Configuration | Single Voice Coil |
| Power Handling (RMS) | 150 watts |
| Continuous Power Handling (RMS) | 150 watts |
| Power Handling (Peak) | 300 watts |
| Voice Coil Diameter | 1.5 inches |
| Cutout Diameter | 7.25 inches |
| Size | 8 inches |
