JBL Prx615m Manual

							PRX612M
PRX615MPRX625
PRX635
PRX618S
PRX618S-XLF
User’s Guide
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Important Safety Instructions4
Precautions 5
Suspension of Loudspeaker Systems 6 - 7
Watch for These Symbols 8
PRX600 Series Speakers Declaration of Conformity 9
The  PRX600 Series Power Amplifier 10
Introduction To The  PRX600Series  11 - 12
System Specifications  13 - 18
System Setup  19 - 22
Setting Input Sensitivity 23
Setting The Gain 24
Application Examples 25 - 28
Reference 29
Cables and Connectors 30
Troubleshooting 31 - 32
Contact Information 33
Warranty Information 34
CONTENTS
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							41. Read these instructions.
2.  Keep these instructions.
3.  Heed all warnings.
4.  Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6.  Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the ma\
nufacturer’s instructions.
8.  Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, \
stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug\
. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide
blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult
an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10.  Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at \
plugs, convenience receptacles,  and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11.  Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by th\
e manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the car\
t/apparatus 
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13.  Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long pe\
riods of time.
14.  Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is require\
d when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled \
or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moi\
sture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.
15. If Service Instructions are included in the Owner's Manual:  "CAUTIO\
N - THESE SERVICING  INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR  USE BY QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY.  TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT PERFORM ANY SERVICING OTHER THAN THAT CONTAINED IN THE
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO DO SO." 
16.  To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug  from the AC receptacle.
17.  “WARNING – TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS          APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.”
18.  Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing and ensure that no\
 objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the equipment.
19.  The main plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.
Care And Cleaning
PRX600 series systems may be cleaned with a dry cloth. Do not get moistu\
re into any of the openings in the
system. Ensure that the system is unplugged from the AC outlet before cleaning. In the event the DuraFlex finish
is damaged a touch up kit can be obtained from JBL Professional (part number 363972-001).
THIS APPARATUS CONTAINS POTENTIALLY LETHAL VOLTAGES. TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK OR
HAZARD, DO NOT REMOVE CHASSIS, INPUT MODULE OR AC INPUT COVERS. NO USER SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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The PRX600 series speakers covered by this manual are not intended for u\
se in high
moisture environments. Moisture can damage the speaker cone and surround\
 and cause
corrosion of electrical contacts and metal parts. Avoid exposing the speakers to direct
moisture. Keep speakers out of extended or intense direct sunlight. The driver suspension will
prematurely dry out and finished surfaces may be degraded by long-term e\
xposure to intense
ultra-violet (UV) light. PRX600 series speakers can generate considera\
ble energy. When
placed on a slippery surface such as polished wood or linoleum, the spea\
ker may move due to its acoustical
energy output. Precautions should be taken to assure that the speaker do\
es not fall off a stage or table on which
it is placed.
Stand Mounting Safety Precautions
Some PRX600 series models include a 36 mm receptacle cup to allow mounti\
ng on tripod stands or on a pole
over subwoofers. When using stands or poles, be sure to observe the foll\
owing precautions:
• Check the stand or pole specification to be certain the device is design\
ed to support the weight of thespeaker. Observe all safety precautions specified by the manufacturer.
• Always verify that the stand (or subwoofer/pole) is placed on a flat, \
level and stable surface and be sure to fully extend the legs of tripod type stands. Position the stand \
so that the legs do not present a
trip hazard.
• Route cables so that performers, production crew, and audience will not trip and topple the speakers over.
• Inspect the stand (or pole and associated hardware) before each use an\
d do not use equipment with worn, damaged or missing parts.
• Do not attempt to place more than one PRX600 series speaker on a st\
and or pole.
• Always be cautious in windy, outdoor conditions. It may be necessary to place additional weight (i\
.e. sandbags) on the base of the stand to improve stability. Avoid attaching banners or similar items to any
part of a speaker system. Such attachments could act as a sail and toppl\
e the system.
• Unless you are confident that you can handle the weight of the speaker, ask another person to help you get it onto the tripod stand or pole.
• The PRX635 should be pole-mounted on a PRX 600 subwoofer using a pole no\
 longer than 24” in  length. (SS3-BK24 or SS4-BK24)
• JBL highly recommends that no more than 70 lbs of weight be placed on a spea\
ker pole that is  mounted to a PRX618S or PRX618S-XLF.
Suspension of Loudspeaker System
Before attempting to suspend your JBL loudspeakers, read and understand the following safety information.
IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING!
The information in this section has been assembled from recognized engin\
eering data and is intended for
informational purposes only. None of the information in this section should be used without first o\
btaining
competent advice with respect to applicability to a given circumstance. \
None of the information presented herein
is intended as a representation or warranty on the part of JBL. Anyone making use of this information assumes
all liability arising from such use. All information presented herein is based upon materials and practices c\
ommon
to North America and may not directly apply to other countries because of differing material dimensions,
specifications, and/or local regulations. Users in other countries shoul\
d consult with appropriate engineering and
regulatory authorities for specific guidelines. Correct use of all riggi\
ng hardware is required for secure system
suspension. Careful calculations should always be performed to ensure th\
at all components are used within their
working load limits before the array is suspended. Never exceed the maxi\
mum recommended load ratings.
Before suspending any speaker system always inspect all components (enc\
losure, rigging frames, pins,
eyebolts, track fittings, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion, mi\
ssing, loose or damaged parts that could
reduce strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend the speaker until the proper corrective action has been\
taken. Use only load-rated hardware when suspending JBL suspendable loudspeaker models. 
PRECAUTIONS
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SUSPENSION OF LOUDSPEAKER SYSTEMS
Are You New to Rigging?
If you are new to rigging, you should do the following: 
•  Read and study JBL Technical Note Volume 1, Number 14: Basic Principles for Suspending Loudspeaker Systems (available at http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/support/getfile.aspx?docid=296&doctype=3).
•  Know the rules for safe rigging. 
•  Attend a safe rigging seminar, such as that presented by professionals like Rigging Seminars™ or by Chain  Motor Hoist manufacturers like Columbus McKinnon Corp. (manufacturers o\
f the C/M Lodestar).
•  Meet and establish a relationship with a licensed mechanical or st\
ructural engineer. Get in the habit of asking  them questions instead of guessing about their answers. Learn from what \
they tell you.
•  Meet and discuss this aspect of your business with your Insurance \
Agent.
•  Research and understand the codes, practices, and requirements in \
the venues where you intend to  operate your sound system.
General Hardware Information 
Any hardware used in an overhead suspension application must be load rat\
ed for the intended use. Generally,
this type of hardware is available from rigging supply houses, industria\
l supply catalogs and specialized rigging
distributors. Local hardware stores do not usually stock these products.\
 Hardware that is intended for overhead
suspension will comply with ASME B30.20 and will be manufactured under product traceability controls\
.
Compliant hardware will be referenced with a working load limit (WLL) \
and a traceability code.
Attachment to Structures 
A licensed Professional Engineer must approve the placement and method of \
attachment to the structure prior 
to the installation of any overhead object. The following performance standards should be provided to the
Professional Engineer for design purposes; Uniform Building Code as appl\
icable, Municipal Building Code 
as applicable, and Seismic Code as applicable. 
The installation of the hardware and method of attachment must be carrie\
d out in the manner specified by 
the Professional Engineer. Improper installation may result in damage, injury or death.
Inspection & Maintenance
Suspension systems are comprised of mechanical devices and, as such, the\
y require regular inspection and
routine maintenance to insure proper function ability. JBL suspendable loudspeakers must be inspected for
fatigue at least annually or, if there has been significant seismic activity, immediately thereafter. The inspection
shall include a visual survey of all corners and load bearing surfaces f\
or signs of cracking, water damage, 
de-lamination, or any other condition that may decrease the strength of \
the loudspeaker enclosure. Accessory
suspension hardware provided with or for the JBL loudspeakers must be inspected for fatigue at least annually.
The inspection shall include a visual survey of the material for signs o\
f corrosion, bending or any other condition
that may decrease the strength of the fastener. Additionally, any eyebolts shall be checked for possible spin-out
of the enclosure. 
For all other hardware and fittings, refer to the hardware manufacturers inspection and 
maintenance guidelines for process.
JBL is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose o\
r the misuse of this information for 
any purpose. Furthermore, JBL is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding comp\
liance
with inspection and maintenance procedures or any other abuse.
Prior to suspending the system, an expert, trained and experienced in su\
spending speaker systems should
inspect all rigging parts and components.
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Resources
Adaptive Technologies GroupMcMaster Carr
562.424.1100  Various locations in the USA
1635 E. Burnett Street For a location near you, visit
Signal Hill, CA 90755 them at www.mcmaster.com
www.adapttechgroup.com
JBL Professional - Tech Note Vol. 1 No. 14
“Basic Principles for Suspending Loudspeakers”
www.jblpro.com/catalog/support/getfile.aspx?docid=296&doctype=3
Safe Rigging
JBL suspendable version loudspeakers are supplied with built-in internal bra\
ckets. The systems are designed 
to facilitate the suspension of the loudspeaker by a qualified person fa\
miliar with rigging hardware and industry
practices. Improper installation may result in damage, injury or death.
If you are unfamiliar with Safe Rigging Practices you will need to consu\
lt with a qualified person familiar 
with rigging hardware and industry practices.  
Working Load Limit 
Working Load Limit for M10 Suspension Points:
The working load limit (WLL) of the JBL PRX600 Series loudspeakers utilizing M10 attachment points will be
maintained with a safety factor of 5:1, provided no more than 470lbs/213\
kg from 2 points equally loaded, or no
more than 235lbs/106kg maximum from a single suspension point, is utiliz\
ed in conjunction with industry
recognized safe rigging practices and the guidelines established within \
this manual.
For permanent installation applications utilizing the M10 suspension poi\
nts order JBL 229-00009-01. 
This kit includes three M10 x 35 mm forged shoulder steel eyebolts with \
washers.
WARNING 
Suspension of JBL loudspeakers must employ a minimum of two attachment points. When "bridl\
ing" a JBL
loudspeaker system, two legs of equal length must be used. The rear attachment points are pull-back points and
are intended only for use in adjusting the down-angle of the speaker enc\
losure. Only the top and bottom
attachment points are intended for use as suspension points.
Hearing Damage, Prolonged Exposure To Excessive SPL 
PRX600 series loudspeakers are easily capable of generating sound pressu\
re levels (SPL) sufficient to cause
permanent hearing damage to performers, production crew and audience mem\
bers. Caution should be taken to
avoid prolonged exposure to SPL in excess of 90 dB.
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WATCH FOR THESE SYMBOLS!
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
! !RISK  OF  ELECTRIC  SHOCK
        DO    NOT   OPEN
C A U T I O NWARNING -   TO REDUCE THE 
RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within
an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the
user to  the presence of uninsulated." "Dangerous
Voltage" withi n the products enclosure that may be
of sufficient magnitude to consitute a risk of
electric shock to persons. The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (Servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the product.
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PRX600Series speakers Declaration of Conformity
Safety And EMC Compliance Specifications
EN 55103-1:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product Family Standard \
for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual
and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional Use, Part 1: Emissions
EN 55103-1:1997 Magnetic Field Emissions-Annex A @ 10 cm and 20 cm
EN 55022:2003 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Cha\
racteristics
of ITE: Radiated, Class B Limits; Conducted, Class A
EN 55103-2:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product Family Standard \
for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual
and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional Use, Part 2: Immunity
EN 61000-4-2: A2:2001 Electrostatic Discharge Immunity (Environment
E2-criteria B, 4 kV Contact, 8 kV Air discharge)
EN 61000-4-3:2003 Radiated, Radio-frequency, Electromagnetic Immunity (Environment E2, criteria A)
EN61000-4-4:2005 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Immunity (criteria B)
EN 61000-4-5:2001 Surge Immunity (criteria B)
EN 61000-4-6:1996 Immunity to Conducted Disturbances Induced by Radio-Fr\
equency Fields (criteria A)
EN 61000-4-11:2004 Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Voltage Variation
UL 6500 2nd Edition 1999 Audio/Video and Musical Instruments Apparatus for Household, Commercial, and
Similar General Use
CAN/CSA-E60065-00 Audio, video and similar apparatus - Safety requirements
CSA Compliance Notice
CSA Certification Applies to Amplifier Module Only CSA Certified to operate only at 120V ~ in Canada
FCC Compliance Notice
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject\
 to the following two conditions: (1) This
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must ac\
cept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party re\
sponsible for compliance could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a\
 Class A digital device, pursuant
to part of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmf\
ul interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy a\
nd, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause \
harmful interference to radio
communications. However there is no guarantee that the interference will\
 not occur in a particular installation.  
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio and televisio\
n reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to collect the interference by o\
ne or more of the
following measures.
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technician for help.
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Changing Voltage
Your PRX600 series speaker will typically be set at the factory to accomm\
odate the power main’s voltage in your
area. Before you set up your PRX600 series speaker for the first time it\
 is a good idea to verify that the setting
of the selector is appropriate for the power in your area. In the event \
that you do need to change the voltage:• Make sure that the speaker is powered off and the AC is disconnected from the speaker.
• Directly above the male IEC connector on the speaker is a voltage select\
or. Just slide the switch to the appropriate setting.
• Set the voltage selector switch to the 115V for (100-120V~) or 230V for (220-240V~) range setting  as required for your area.
• After having reconfirmed that the correct voltage is selected, reconnect\
 the AC (IEC connector) and power the unit up.
DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES OPERATE THE UNIT WITH THE WRONG VOLTAGE SELECTED.
DOING SO MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS DAMAGE TO YOUR SPEAKER SYSTEM WHICH WILL NOT BE
COVERED BY WARRANTY.
Operating Temperature
The design of the Crown amplifier is such that it is very energy efficient and as a result does not get really hot.
In the rare event that it does get too hot it will automatically shut do\
wn to protect itself. When its temperature
has returned to within its operating range it will turn back on. A condition under which this may occur is when the
system is operated in very high ambient temperatures and the heat sink o\
n the rear of the enclosure is in
direct sunlight. Always ensure adequate cooling and appropriate shade.
AC Power Requirements 
Standard PRX600 series speaker systems are equipped with a multi-channel\
 Crown Class-D power amplifier
and loudspeaker specific DSP electronics and require appropriate AC power. Before plugging a PRX600
speaker into an outlet ensure that it is able to provide the appropriate\
 AC power as required by the speaker.
A robust AC supply is necessary for maximum performance. If the supply is too wea\
k the bass performance may
be affected and if it sags (drops) too much the system may self-mute to pro\
tect itself. As soon as the appropriate
AC supply is restored it will continue to operate. Plugging multiple sys\
tems into the same outlet and long
extension cord runs may affect the AC supply to the systems. 
CAUTION 
In compliance with safety agency criteria and proper system operation, i\
t is critical that the system installer
observe all electrical safety practices at all times and provide proper \
earth grounding for all AC Power
connections.
Powering Up
The main power switch is located on the input panel on the back of the e\
nclosure. Always ensure that the
speaker system is the last thing you power up, and the first thing to tu\
rn off when operating your complete PA
system. If speaker systems are daisy chained together always turn off the last system in the chain first. Power
“on” is indicated by the illumination of the blue LED on the front\
 of the enclosure. 
The  PRX600 Series Power Amplifier
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