JBL Speaker S4800 User Manual

OWNER’S GUIDE  
S4800  
3-WAY  
FLOORSTANDING  
SPEAKER SYSTEM  
®
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PREFACE  
®
Thank you for selecting a JBL  
S4800 loudspeaker system. It  
represents the sum total of our  
research and developmental  
efforts in sound reproduction over  
the last half-century. We have  
labored to create a loudspeaker  
system with no acoustical or elec-  
trical limitations whatsoever. While  
the S4800 loudspeaker is itself a  
new development, the goal behind  
it goes right back to the earliest  
days of the original James B.  
Lansing Sound Company.  
This guide exists for several  
purposes. As your owner’s manual,  
it contains all necessary back-  
ground information and detailed  
instructions for setting up your  
S4800 loudspeaker system, includ-  
ing unpacking the loudspeaker;  
selecting the correct location,  
speaker wire, wiring scheme and  
amplification; and connecting it  
to its associated electronics.  
This information will be found in  
Chapters 2 through 6. In addition,  
we have included a detailed  
description of the S4800 speaker  
(Chapter 1) so that you may  
Please take a moment to register  
Registration enables us to keep  
you posted on our latest advance-  
ments, and helps us to better  
understand our customers and  
build products that meet their  
needs and expectations.  
But it is your listening pleasure that  
ultimately determines how success-  
ful we are in this endeavor. It is  
solely in the interest of ensuring a  
perfect listening experience that  
we ask you to faithfully follow the  
setup and operation procedures  
outlined in this owner’s guide.  
become thoroughly acquainted  
with its unique design and  
technological features.  
Although physically and materially  
imposing, the setup procedure of  
the S4800 loudspeaker system is  
relatively simple. We strongly  
urge you to read this manual  
thoroughly before you begin, and  
consult it frequently throughout  
the process. Considerations must  
be made in placing the speakers;  
their stature and weight make  
it imperative that you become  
familiar with the entire setup  
process in advance.  
3
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CHAPTER 1 – THE S4800 LOUDSPEAKER:  
A TRIUMPH IN ACOUSTICS AND TECHNOLOGY  
The new S4800 employs a 3-way,  
three-driver design, incorporating  
an ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) com-  
pression driver and horn to repro-  
duce high frequencies up to 40kHz.  
With the UHF handling the ultrahigh  
frequencies, the high-frequency  
(HF) transducer could then be  
upgraded to a new design using a  
3-inch diaphragm for better repro-  
duction of lower frequencies and  
better blend with the woofer than  
the older generations’ 2-inch  
drivers are mounted in a unique  
combination Bi-Radial horn struc-  
In order to re-create the extremely  
high dynamic range provided by  
today’s audio sources, a new low-  
frequency transducer was used,  
incorporating a ferrite magnet, 3-  
inch edge-wound voice coil, and  
an Aquaplas-coated 15-inch cone  
®
ture, precision-molded from JBL’s  
proprietary SonoGlass material, an  
extremely dense and mechanically  
inert substance that is easily  
molded into the unusual shapes  
required for superior acoustic  
performance.  
®
made of Kevlar composite, a mix-  
ture of Kevlar fiber and pulp mate-  
rial that provides increased rigidity.  
An EPDM rubber surround was  
chosen for both its flexibility and  
long life. The Symmetrical Field  
diaphragm. Both compression  
Geometry (SFG ) magnetic struc-  
ture minimizes second harmonic  
distortion by providing a uniform  
flux field that prevents uneven  
cone movement. The rigid cast-  
aluminum frame is also designed  
to minimize distortion, as alu-  
minum has no effect on the mag-  
netic field. Extensive computer-  
aided engineering and design effort  
made to develop the optimized port  
tuning employed in the S4800 has  
resulted in a significant advance in  
the concept of state-of-the-art bass  
reproduction. This proprietary align-  
ment method offers the best damp-  
ing characteristics and provides  
extremely fast alignment, eliminat-  
ing the typical “bass-reflex” sound  
of a ported system.  
045Ti 1" UHF  
Compression  
Driver  
435AL  
3" HF  
Compression  
Driver  
SonoGlass  
Bi-Radial Horn  
100˚ Horizontal  
60˚ Vertical  
1500FE  
15" LF  
Driver  
All three transducers are built using  
the most advanced materials and  
precision manufacturing techniques  
refined from renowned JBL profes-  
sional sound systems.  
1" MDF  
Construction  
High power-handling capability  
results in no limitations on the types  
of source material. The S4800 has  
very high input sensitivity; even a  
relatively small high-end amplifier  
can provide full dynamic range  
without compression.  
Despite its power and sophistica-  
tion, the S4800 embodies both tradi-  
tion and technology. It reflects the  
design, engineering and manufac-  
turing expertise derived and refined  
through nearly six decades of  
experience that are the exclusive  
province of one loudspeaker  
builder – JBL.  
Port  
Tube  
Curved  
Dress  
Panel  
Spiked Feet  
Foot Base  
Figure 1. Cutaway view of S4800 speaker system.  
4
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the sound seems to come from the  
combination horn. Music imaging  
is more realistic since the sound  
appears to emanate from one point  
and not from multiple points at dif-  
ferent times.  
The S4800 is a constant-angle sys-  
tem without regard to frequency.  
Careful horn design enables the  
loudspeaker to strictly adhere to a  
100° horizontal/60° vertical cover-  
age pattern. This controlled cover-  
age arrangement precisely defines  
the optimum listening area and  
minimizes room effects. At the  
same time, it provides a generous  
“sweet spot” for more comfortable  
critical listening sessions.  
Figure 2. Height of S4800 speaker system in relation to listener.  
The following sections describe  
the primary features and compo-  
nents of the S4800 loudspeaker  
system.  
The enclosure of the S4800 is  
specially designed to transfer  
unwanted mechanical energy  
away from any acoustically active  
surfaces, virtually eliminating  
coloration.  
The massive enclosure, along  
with its specially designed brass  
modular feet, couples directly to  
the floor, and the system literally  
becomes a structural part of its  
environment. Any vibration is  
transmitted harmlessly down the  
channel provided by the ring/  
disc axes and into the floor. The  
SonoGlass combination horn  
maintains a smooth energy  
transmission path.  
The S4800 transducer/enclosure  
arrangement represents the best  
possible balance of the various  
tuning options and avoids the  
mid-bass response buildup found  
in other vented systems. Response  
works with, rather than against,  
the effects of “room loading.”  
Thanks to the combination horn,  
both the UHF (ultrahigh-frequency)  
and HF (high-frequency) drivers  
are located at the ear level of the  
listener.  
THE 1500FE LOW-  
FREQUENCY DRIVER  
See Figure 2.  
See Figure 3.  
The large 3-inch HF transducer  
allows the 15-inch woofer to be  
crossed over at a frequency low  
enough to eliminate any audible  
effects of its exact location and  
proximity.  
Full image coherency is main-  
tained, resulting in an acoustically  
stable pinpointed stereo image. All  
In order to achieve the lowest pos-  
sible distortion and compression  
along with the high linear excur-  
sion necessary, the 1500FE is  
equipped with a ferrite magnet.  
As with earlier JBL low-frequency  
drivers, it utilizes forced-air cool-  
ing. The entire magnetic structure  
Terminal Base:  
Glass-Filled ABS  
Terminals:  
Gold-Plated 5-Way  
Binding Posts  
Surround:  
EPDM Foam Rubber  
Pigtail Leads:  
Silver-Plated  
Cadmium Copper  
w/Conex Core  
Magnet:  
Ceramic  
Spiders:  
Nomex®  
Polepiece:  
Steel SAE-1008  
Dust Dome:  
Paper-Pulp  
Composite  
Back Plate:  
Steel SAE-1008  
Spider Spacer:  
Extruded Aluminum  
6063  
The unique design of the system  
is the platform for its equally  
unique acoustical attributes.  
Pole Sleeve:  
High-Purity Copper  
Trim Ring:  
NBR Rubber  
Voice Coil:  
Aluminum Ribbon Wire  
ES-1350 on High-Temp  
Fiberglass Former  
Cone Body:  
Special Paper-  
Pulp Composite  
Frame:  
Cast 380  
Aluminum  
Figure 3. Cutaway view of 1500FE low-frequency transducer.  
5
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Aluminum-  
Alloy Cover  
Neodymium  
Magnet  
3" (75mm)  
Pure-  
Aluminum  
Diaphragm  
Phase Plug  
Aluminum  
Edge-Wound  
Voice Coil  
Binding-  
Post Input  
Terminal  
Figure 4. Cutaway view of 435AL high-frequency transducer.  
435AL ALUMINUM  
DIAPHRAGM/  
NEODYMIUM MAGNET  
HIGH-FREQUENCY  
COMPRESSION DRIVER  
is attached to a die-cast alu-  
minum-alloy frame. This provides  
accurate, rigid support for the  
motor and cone mounting points,  
as well as doubling as a massive  
heatsink by providing a huge sur-  
face area for heat dissipation.  
The voice coil itself is constructed  
from edge-wound aluminum wire  
on a massive 4-inch-diameter  
fiberglass former. This configura-  
tion provides for further cooling  
ability in conjunction with the  
motor design.  
See Figure 4.  
The 435AL neodymium high-  
frequency compression driver is  
based on the professional JBL 2430  
device. It incorporates a rare-earth  
neodymium magnet structure,  
designed by extensive computer  
modeling, including finite element  
analysis, which combines the  
attributes of efficiency, strength,  
low mass and compact size. This  
motor structure is coupled with  
a 3-inch aluminum diaphragm.  
Aluminum provides improved low-  
distortion characteristics and flat  
frequency response.  
The 1500FE has a central cooling  
duct that effectively cools the  
The Aquaplas-coated, Kevlar-  
composite cone, along with the  
EPDM rubber surround, provides  
excellent damping and transient  
response characteristics.  
voice coil and reduces the likeli-  
hood of hot spots. By reducing the  
operating temperature of the voice  
coil, power compression is signifi-  
cantly reduced, which enables the  
low-frequency driver to operate in  
a more linear fashion over a wider  
sound pressure level (SPL) range.  
High-temperature materials and  
adhesives allow the driver to han-  
dle extremely high power levels  
over extended periods of time. The  
SonoGlass horn is acoustically  
inert and precision-molded to  
exacting tolerances.  
6
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Edge-Wound  
Aluminum Voice Coil  
Aluminum-  
Alloy Cover  
1" (25mm)  
Pure-Titanium  
Diaphragm  
Stainless-  
Steel Mounting  
Bracket  
Phase Plug  
Neodymium  
Magnet  
Gold-Plated  
Input Terminal  
Figure 5. Cutaway view of 045Ti ultrahigh-frequency transducer.  
045TI PURE-TITANIUM  
DIAPHRAGM/  
NEODYMIUM MAGNET  
ULTRAHIGH-FREQUENCY  
COMPRESSION DRIVER  
EXTERNAL  
CONNECTIONS  
All internal connections use propri-  
etary Monster Cable, and all criti-  
®
The all-metal, gold-plated, 5-way  
binding-post input connectors  
provide for bi-wiring, which is  
explained in detail later in this  
guide.  
cal connections are gold-plated for  
long life. Capacitors are ultrahigh-  
grade polypropylene for extremely  
low loss. All switches and compo-  
nents are of the highest quality for  
long life and reduced distortion of  
all types.  
The network also facilitates bi-  
wiring as necessary, using short-  
ing straps where only a single-  
wire connection is desired.  
The HF trim control allows fine-tun-  
ing of the high-frequency output  
level to the acoustics of the lis-  
tening space as well as to the  
listener’s liking.  
See Figure 5.  
The 045Ti utilizes the same princi-  
ples as the 435AL, in a smaller foot-  
print so that a frequency response  
up to 40kHz can be achieved.  
ENCLOSURES  
The enclosure design of the S4800  
minimizes coloration by dramati-  
cally reducing panel radiation. It is  
constructed from 1-inch (25mm)-  
thick MDF.  
The enclosure’s unusual thickness,  
along with the SonoGlass horn  
assembly, add up to the lowest-  
vibration, most acoustically inert  
loudspeaker enclosure presently  
possible to construct. Enclosures  
are finished with a high-gloss  
polyurethane lacquer.  
INTERNAL CROSSOVER  
NETWORK  
Each loudspeaker unit has two  
internal dividing networks, one for  
the LF transducers and one for the  
combined HF and UHF transducers.  
The low-frequency section inter-  
faces with the external main con-  
trol panel for input connections and  
switch functions. They also employ  
massive air core inductors for the  
best possible sonic characteristics  
and lowest possible coloration.  
7
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CHAPTER 2 – UNPACKING THE S4800 SYSTEM  
All components of the S4800 sys-  
tem have been very carefully  
packed for maximum protection  
against damage.  
As with any superior audio product,  
it is advisable to keep the original  
packing materials in case it is  
necessary to transport the S4800  
system.  
Because of the bulk and weight of  
this loudspeaker, at least two peo-  
ple are required to unpack it in the  
following manner: Open the front as  
well as the top of the carton. Slowly  
and carefully “walk” the loud-  
speaker in its Styrofoam end  
pads out of the carton. Two people  
may then lift the system out of the  
end pads.  
The four spiked feet are pre-  
installed in the bottom of the S4800  
in four locations. Four metal coast-  
ers are packed in the end pads.  
These are to be placed between  
the feet and the floor for further  
protection of floor coverings. See  
Figure 6.  
Figure 6. Inserting  
spiked feet.  
CHAPTER 3 – SELECTING CABLE  
Speaker wire and interconnecting  
cables are critical components in  
any audio system. With a system  
such as the S4800, they assume a  
new level of importance.  
S4800 loudspeakers are internally  
wired with high-quality copper  
Monster Cable, specially designed  
for JBL. The same care that was  
given to the selection of internal  
system wiring should be afforded  
to the selection and application of  
the cables that will connect S4800  
loudspeakers to other system  
components.  
It is advisable to use high-quality  
wire, such as Monster Cable, and  
to select the highest-grade wire  
available from the manufacturer.  
Many manufacturers produce  
audiophile cables worth consider-  
ing for the S4800. As with all elec-  
tronics and associated compo-  
nents, however, every manufacturer  
offers products of varying quality  
to suit a range of budgets and  
applications.  
We recommend using an audio-  
Both the left and right speaker/  
amplifier connections should be  
the same length. If the distance  
between one speaker and the  
amplifier(s) is greater than the  
other speaker and amplifier(s),  
use the longer length for both  
connections.  
For bi-wire connections, the same  
type of wires may be used for  
both the low-frequency and high-  
frequency sections to reduce wire  
effects (resistance, inductance,  
etc.) and to avoid intermodulation  
of low and high frequencies in the  
wires. Specialized wires for low-  
frequency and high-frequency  
sections may yield excellent  
phile-quality speaker wire of not  
less than 16 gauge for connections  
up to 15 feet (5 meters) as a mini-  
mum requirement. If your connec-  
tions will be longer, heavier-gauge  
wire is recommended. JBL special-  
ist dealers have the experience  
and knowledge to recommend  
suitable speaker wire to best  
complement a particular system.  
The amount of speaker wire  
required will depend on the dis-  
tance between the loudspeakers  
and amplifier(s), how many ampli-  
fiers will be used, and the method  
you select for connecting the  
amplifier and loudspeakers  
(passive or bi-wire; see Chapter 6).  
For maximum signal purity, it is  
advisable to locate the amplifier(s)  
as close as possible to the loud-  
speakers, even if this means that  
a longer distance will be needed  
between the amplifier(s) and  
preamplifier.  
results. Whatever wires are used,  
be sure that the low-frequency  
wires are as short as possible,  
and the left and right wires for  
each section are the same length.  
8
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CHAPTER 4 – AMPLIFIER RECOMMENDATIONS  
No single type of amplifier is  
specified for use with the S4800  
system. The speakers are highly  
efficient and will operate ade-  
quately with an amplifier or  
receiver of 70–100 watts.  
For bi-wiring applications, four iden-  
tical amplifiers or two dual-channel  
units may be used, although spe-  
cialized low-frequency and high-  
frequency amplifiers offer clear  
advantages.  
However, the transient response  
and audio definition of a high-end  
system such as the S4800 will pick  
up all inefficiencies and distortion  
in an amplifier system. For full-  
range operation, the S4800 system  
can be used with an amplifier/  
receiver of as little as 30 watts.  
Amplifiers/receivers of 100–300  
watts will ensure optimum system  
performance.  
There is no effective limit to the  
power handling capabilities of the  
S4800 loudspeakers when driven  
by consumer audio amplifiers. No  
damage will occur when used with  
high-powered components. Source  
impedance is an important criterion  
in selecting an appropriate unit; the  
selected amplifier(s) should have a  
very high current capacity and  
must be capable of driving a low  
impedance load.  
NOTE: When using separate high-  
and low-frequency amplifiers with  
dual wires to each speaker, the  
amplifiers must have exactly the  
same gain structure, or one of them  
must have a level control to adjust  
the gain between the two ampli-  
fiers. If four amplifier channels are  
used, the high-frequency amplifier  
may be up to 6dB less powerful  
than the low-frequency amplifier.  
Due to the power versus frequency  
distribution of the music, the low-  
frequency section requires approxi-  
mately four times the power of the  
high-frequency section.  
JBL specialist dealers can recom-  
mend amplification to best suit  
individual needs. In all cases, the  
left and right amplifiers for each  
section must be identical. Make  
sure that the input sensitivity of  
the two amplifiers is equal or that  
input level controls are provided  
to maintain the proper low to  
mid/high balance. If two identical  
stereo amplifiers are chosen,  
each amplifier may be located  
near a loudspeaker and drive low-  
frequency and high-frequency  
sections through short wire runs.  
9
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CHAPTER 5 – PLACEMENT AND SETUP CONSIDERATIONS  
The S4800 loudspeaker system is  
designed to be less affected by  
room acoustics than conventional  
imaging systems. However, it is  
very sensitive to overall symmetry,  
and proximity to walls, ceilings and  
corners.  
Ideally, any listening room should  
contain a combination of live sur-  
faces (e.g., walls and windows)  
and absorbent surfaces (e.g.,  
drapes, carpets, upholstery). If  
the distance from floor to ceiling  
is short, it is preferable that one  
surface has an absorbent cover-  
ing. With the S4800, it is most  
important to be able to accommo-  
date the optimum listening area  
that is defined by the 100° hori-  
zontal/60° vertical coverage  
pattern of the horn.  
area. Verify the integrity of the floor  
surface before placing and setting  
up the speakers. See Floor  
Requirements.  
is sufficient), and to avoid interfer-  
ence with the performance of the  
tuned port. Remember that these  
speakers weigh close to 143 lb  
(65kg) each and cannot be easily  
moved.  
If possible, the distance between  
the speakers should be the same  
as the distance between each  
speaker and the listening area.  
Angle the speaker in toward the  
listener so that when seated, the  
listener can look straight into the  
center of the speaker (Figure 7). As  
the distance increases between  
the speakers, increase the inward  
angle of the speaker.  
The imaging qualities enable the  
speakers to be placed relatively far  
apart from each other. In addition,  
the low-frequency alignment fea-  
ture enables placing the speakers  
near, or even in, a corner without  
producing an overabundance of  
bass. This corner placement ability  
allows optimum performance even  
in small rooms.  
FLOOR REQUIREMENTS  
The floor in the location selected  
for setting up the S4800 speakers  
must be capable of supporting a  
load of 143 lb (65kg) per speaker.  
Because of the coupling effect of  
the stainless-steel feet, a flat, hard  
surface such as wood or linoleum  
is preferable. However, the design  
of the loudspeaker’s coupling sys-  
tem, along with the speaker’s  
extreme weight, should result in  
excellent performance on any sur-  
face, even on carpets.  
The listener should be centered in  
front of the speakers, and furniture  
should be of an appropriate height  
so that when the listener is sitting,  
his or her ears are level with the  
horn (approximately 32 inches/  
80cm), as illustrated in Figure 2.  
To prevent indentations on wood  
or linoleum floors caused by the  
weight of the loudspeaker, always  
utilize the enclosed coasters.  
Do not set up the S4800 system  
directly on a ceramic tile floor; the  
concentrated weight might cause  
the tiles to crack.  
The S4800 system can operate  
fairly close to the wall. Leave  
enough clearance between the  
back of each speaker and the wall  
to allow for making the connec-  
tions on the back of the speaker  
(approximately 2 inches – 3 inches  
CAUTION: The S4800 is a massive  
system comprising materials chosen  
for their density, with its weight  
concentrated in a relatively narrow  
Figure 7. Room placement of S4800 speaker system.  
10  
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CHAPTER 6 – S4800 SWITCH OPERATIONS  
The S4800 has an HF trim switch  
CONTROLS AND  
mounted on the network panel  
on the rear of the enclosure. The  
HF Trim Switch £ adjusts the  
high-frequency level over the  
range of approximately 1000Hz to  
10kHz. The +1dB position gives the  
highest HF output and measures  
the most level. 0dB reduces the HF  
level by 1dB, and the 1dB position  
reduces the HF level by an addi-  
tional 1dB.  
CONNECTIONS  
Model S4800  
¡
HF - UHF  
INPUT  
Although the range of these control  
settings is rather small, each of  
them operate over a reasonably  
wide frequency range and thus  
have a noticeable effect on the  
overall tonal balance of the system.  
It is recommended that the system  
first be played with the switch in  
the middle position. This setting  
gives the most uniform measure-  
ments in a controlled environment.  
Of course, we are interested in pro-  
ducing the most pleasing sound in  
your environment with your choice  
of program material. It is, therefore,  
recommended that the HF Trim  
Switch £ be tested in its various  
settings on a variety of program  
material. Once you become familiar  
with their individual character, you  
should have no difficulty determin-  
ing the setting that produces the  
most pleasing, natural sound in  
your room with your equipment.  
HF - TRIM  
+1dB  
+0dB  
+
–1dB  
£
¢
LF  
INPUT  
JBL Incorporated, Northridge, California USA  
Figure 8. S4800 controls and connections.  
¡ Mid-/High-Frequency Input  
Terminals: For bi-wire configura-  
tions, connect the speaker wires  
for the mid- and high-frequency  
ranges to these terminals.  
increases the output, the 0dB  
position is a flat-level position,  
and the –1dB position decreases  
the output. Each position will  
affect the tonal balance over  
a wide frequency spectrum.  
Experiment by placing the switch  
in each position while listening  
to familiar program material and  
choose the position that suits  
your room acoustics and listening  
preferences. You may find after a  
few months, once the transduc-  
ers have settled in, that another  
adjustment is necessary. This  
is normal. The switch may be  
adjusted using a flat-head screw-  
driver.  
¢ Low-Frequency Input  
Terminals: For bi-wire configura-  
tions, connect the speaker wires  
for the low-frequency range to  
these terminals.  
Shorting Straps: Leave the  
shorting straps in place only if  
you are using the passive single-  
wire connection option described  
on page 13. Otherwise, remove  
the straps to prevent possible  
damage to the speakers or your  
electronics.  
£ HF Trim Switch: This switch  
allows you to adjust the output of  
the high-frequency transducers to  
compensate for the acoustics of  
your room. The +1dB position  
11  
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SHORTING STRAPS  
WIRING  
CONFIGURATIONS  
The left-hand terminals (black  
stripe) are negative, and the right-  
hand terminals (red stripe) are  
positive. These correspond to the  
negative and positive conductors  
in the speaker wire. Each speaker  
wire contains two conductors, one  
of which will have a stripe, color  
markings or a ridge. Assign one of  
the two conductors as the nega-  
tive conductor and the other as  
the positive conductor. Use these  
same designations for all system  
wiring. Always connect the con-  
ductors of the speaker wire appro-  
priately to the corresponding neg-  
ative and positive terminals on all  
system components. This will  
The S4800 is shipped with shorting  
straps installed between its low-  
frequency and high-frequency  
terminals. Please see Figure 8.  
To prepare the S4800 for bi-wire  
operation, these straps must be  
removed by completely unscrewing  
each binding-post knob, removing  
the straps, and replacing the knob.  
Speaker wires can then be con-  
nected to each set of terminals  
(see Figure 9).  
As mentioned earlier, the S4800  
speakers may be connected to the  
amplifier(s) by one of these meth-  
ods: passive or bi-wire. Each  
method (described on page 13)  
has its own advantages, and the  
loudspeaker system will deliver  
superb performance with both  
methods.  
Each speaker is shipped with  
external shorting straps in place  
(see Figure 8), connecting the  
upper and lower terminal posts  
on the left and right sides. These  
straps must remain in place for  
passive connections but must be  
removed for all bi-wire connec-  
tions.  
IMPORTANT: If the amplifiers are  
connected to the S4800 loudspeak-  
ers in the bi-wire mode with the  
shorting straps still on, the amplifi-  
er outputs will be shorted, which  
could result in costly amplifier  
damage when the power is  
switched on.  
0
0
8
4
S
l
e
ensure that all components will  
work together (“in phase”). Con-  
necting the speakers out of phase  
will not damage them but will  
result in reduced low-frequency  
output and impaired stereo effect.  
d
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Speaker wires may be fastened to  
the terminals by several methods.  
The most positive connection is  
made by directly connecting clean,  
bare connectors (exposed by strip-  
ping the ends of the wire) to the  
terminal posts.  
For this type of connection, loosen  
the knobs on the terminals and  
insert the exposed (bare) ends of  
each speaker wire into the hole  
exposed on the terminal shaft  
( + to +, – to – ) (see Figure 12).  
Refasten the knob on each termi-  
nal so that a snug connection is  
achieved. Do not apply excessive  
force and do not overtighten. To  
avoid a short circuit, trim off any  
excess wire that is not in contact  
with the binding post contact  
surfaces.  
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Figure 9.  
Removing shorting straps.  
(Bi-Wire Connection Method)  
AMPLIFIER  
CONNECTIONS  
IMPORTANT: Turn all amplifiers off  
before connecting or disconnect-  
ing S4800 loudspeakers. Making  
connections while an amplifier is  
operating could seriously damage  
the loudspeaker system and void  
the warranty. All amplifiers must  
also be turned off before connect-  
ing or disconnecting cables at the  
amplifier or preamplifier inputs.  
All connections between the amp-  
lifier(s) and the S4800 loudspeaker  
system are made at the terminals  
located on the back of the enclo-  
sure (see Figures 9 through 12).  
S4800 terminals are also designed  
to accept spade or banana-type  
connectors, which are fastened to  
the ends of the wires and, in turn,  
are attached to the terminal posts.  
12  
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PASSIVE CONNECTION  
METHOD  
BI-WIRE CONNECTION  
METHODS  
character for low and high fre-  
quencies (see Figure 11).  
The passive method requires one  
amplifier and one set of wires.  
Connections are made to the lower  
terminals (one black, one red). Do  
not remove the shorting straps.  
Loosen the lower terminal caps.  
Connect the positive conductor  
to the right (red) terminal and the  
negative conductor to the left  
(black) terminal (see Figure 10).  
Refasten the terminal caps.  
The bi-wire connection method  
requires one amplifier and two  
sets of speaker wires. By removing  
the shorting straps, connections  
may be made to the individual net-  
work sections using four conduc-  
tors, one for each of the four termi-  
nals (see Figure 11).  
NOTE: When using separate high-  
and low-frequency amplifiers with  
dual wires to each speaker, the  
amplifiers must have exactly the  
same gain structure, or one of  
them must have a level control to  
adjust the gain between the two  
amplifiers.  
Four identical amplifiers (or two  
dual-channel units) may be used,  
although specialized low- and  
high-frequency amplifiers offer  
clear advantages. A JBL specialist  
dealer can recommend the amplifi-  
cation that will best suit individual  
needs.  
The optimal method of powering  
the S4800 system is with two  
amplifiers, one for the low-fre-  
quency unit and one for the high-  
frequency unit. Since each amplifi-  
er drives only one speaker, this  
method allows the user to select  
amplifiers with the desired sonic  
0
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Figure 11. Connecting speaker wires  
using banana plugs.  
(Bi-Wire Connection Method)  
Figure 10. Connecting speaker wires  
using banana plugs.  
(Passive Connection Method)  
13  
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THE WOOFER GRILLE  
In all cases, the left and right  
amplifiers for each section must be  
identical. Make sure that the input  
sensitivity of the amplifier for each  
section is equal, or that input level  
controls are provided to maintain  
the proper low-to-mid/high bal-  
ance. If two identical stereo ampli-  
fiers are used, one may be located  
near each loudspeaker and drive  
low- and high-frequency sections  
through short wire runs.  
NOTE: Input polarity must be the  
same for both the low- and high-  
frequency sections. Some ampli-  
fiers invert polarity. If the polarity is  
reversed to one section, a discon-  
tinuity in response will be apparent  
in the crossover region. If a prob-  
lem is suspected, reverse the  
polarity to either low- or high-  
frequency sections of both  
Grilles on the S4800 loudspeaker  
system have been designed for  
maximum acoustical transparency.  
For the most critical listening, how-  
ever, JBL suggests removing the  
grilles. The grilles are connected  
by four pins inserted into four  
holes on the face of the cabinet.  
To remove each grille, hold the  
grille edges with your fingers and  
gently pull the grille away. Do not  
use any tools to pry the grille off –  
this will damage the finish of the  
cabinet. To replace the grille, posi-  
tion the mounting pins over the  
holes and gently press until the  
grille meets the enclosure.  
FINAL CHECKLIST  
• Connect and plug in all other  
system electronics.  
• Check all connections. If bi-  
wiring, make sure both shorting  
straps are removed.  
loudspeakers. Amplifier polarity  
markings may not ensure correct  
polarity connections.  
• Make sure the HF Trim Switch  
2 is correctly set.  
The system is now ready for use.  
The S4800 speaker system is fully  
functional as soon as it is set up.  
The amplifier power should not  
exceed 300 watts (RMS). There  
may be some subtle tonal changes  
in bass output over the first week  
to 10 days of operation. These are  
caused as the movement of the  
low-frequency drivers becomes  
more fluid and the parts settle in.  
This process is completely normal  
with transducers of this caliber.  
Figure 12. Connecting speaker wires using  
bare-wire method.  
14  
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CHAPTER 7 – CARE AND MAINTENANCE  
The S4800 loudspeaker system is  
sprayed in a polyurethane finish  
and requires no maintenance  
other than an occasional dusting  
with a soft, dry, lint-free cotton  
cloth.  
The horns may also be wiped with  
a soft cloth. Treat the surface very  
carefully to avoid scratching the  
finish. To remove fingerprints and  
smudges, apply a small amount of  
ammonia-free window cleaner to  
the cloth and gently clean the  
surface.  
Never use any abrasive cleaners  
or chemicals to clean the enclo-  
sure. If the enclosure becomes  
perceptibly scratched or other-  
wise damaged, consult a qualified  
furniture repair shop.  
The grilles should never be  
washed in water, which might  
cause discoloration or sagging.  
The grilles may be cleaned using  
a vacuum cleaner with the suc-  
tion set extremely low.  
To clean the woofer surfaces, use  
a soft, dry paintbrush to carefully  
sweep the dust away. Never use  
a damp cloth.  
All wiring connections should be  
inspected and cleaned, or remade  
periodically. The frequency of  
the maintenance depends on the  
metals involved in the connec-  
tions, atmospheric conditions  
and other factors. Consult a JBL  
specialist dealer for specific  
recommendations.  
15  
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CHAPTER 8 – TROUBLESHOOTING AND SERVICE GUIDE  
S4800 loudspeakers are designed  
to provide years of trouble-free  
service.  
If you are experiencing difficul-  
ties, we suggest you check these  
possibilities before contacting  
your JBL specialist dealer for  
assistance.  
• Switch the speaker wires  
between the speaker with the  
problem and one that is working  
correctly. If the problem remains  
in the same speaker, then the  
fault is in the loudspeaker. In  
this event, consult your JBL  
specialist dealer for assistance.  
If, however, the problem has  
moved to the other speaker, then  
the cause is in either a cable or  
an electronic component.  
IF THERE IS NO SOUND  
FROM ANY OF THE  
SPEAKERS:  
• Check that the receiver/amplifier  
is on and a source is playing.  
IF THE SYSTEM PLAYS  
AT LOW VOLUMES BUT  
SHUTS OFF AS VOLUME  
IS INCREASED:  
• Check all wires and connections  
between the receiver/amplifier  
and the speakers. Make sure all  
wires are connected, and are  
not frayed, cut or punctured. No  
wires or strands should be touching  
each other or the shorting straps  
connected to other terminals.  
• Check all wires and connections  
between the receiver/amplifier  
and the speakers. Make sure all  
wires are connected, and are not  
frayed, cut or punctured. No wires  
or strands should be touching each  
other or the shorting straps con-  
nected to other terminals.  
• Review proper operation of your  
receiver/amplifier.  
• If more than one pair of main  
speakers is being used, check the  
minimum impedance require-  
ments of your receiver/amplifier.  
IF THERE IS NO SOUND  
COMING FROM ONE  
SPEAKER:  
• Check the “Balance” control on  
your receiver/processor.  
IF THERE IS LOW (OR  
NO) BASS OUTPUT:  
• Check all wires and connections  
between the receiver/amplifier  
and the speakers. Make sure all  
wires are connected, and are not  
frayed, cut or punctured. No wires  
or strands should be touching each  
other or the shorting straps con-  
nected to other terminals.  
• In digital surround sound modes,  
make sure that the receiver/  
processor is configured so that  
the speaker in question is  
enabled.  
• Make sure the connections to  
the left and right speaker termi-  
nals have the correct polarity.  
• In digital surround sound modes,  
consider adding a powered  
subwoofer to play the LFE (low-  
frequency effects) channel of  
the program.  
16  
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S4800 SPECIFICATIONS  
POWER HANDLING:  
300W (RMS)*  
55Hz – 40kHz (6dB)  
28Hz (–10dB)  
93dB (2.83V/1m)  
8 Ohms  
FREQUENCY RESPONSE:  
LOW-FREQUENCY EXTENSION:  
SENSITIVITY:  
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE:  
CROSSOVER FREQUENCIES:  
LOW-FREQUENCY DRIVER:  
900Hz, 8kHz  
15" (380mm) Kevlar®-composite-  
cone woofer (1500FE)  
HIGH-FREQUENCY DRIVER:  
ULTRAHIGH-FREQUENCY DRIVER:  
DIMENSIONS (H X W X D):  
WEIGHT:  
3" (75mm) Aluminum compression  
driver (435AL) in 1-1/2" (38mm)-  
throat Bi-Radial® horn  
1" (25mm) Pure-titanium compression  
driver (045Ti) in 0.35" (8.9mm)-  
throat Bi-Radial horn  
42" (42-3/4" with spike feet) x 19-3/4" x 14-5/8"  
1067mm (1086mm with spike feet) x 501mm x 376mm  
143 lb (65kg) per speaker  
* The maximum recommended amplifier power rating will ensure proper system headroom to allow for occasional peaks.  
We do not recommend sustained operation at these maximum power levels.  
All features and specifications are subject to change without notice.  
Declaration of Conformity  
We, Harman Consumer Group International  
2, route de Tours  
72500 Chateau du Loir  
France  
declare in own responsibility that the product described  
in this owner’s manual is in compliance with technical  
standards:  
EN 61000-6-3:2001  
EN 61000-6-1:2001  
Laurent Rault  
Harman Consumer Group International  
Chateau du Loir, France 10/05  
17  
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JBL AND HARMAN INTERNATIONAL  
JBL is part of the Harman  
International audio companies,  
world’s most advanced manufac-  
turing facilities. The result of this  
teamwork is that JBL’s renowned  
excellence in engineering is suc-  
cessfully carried through to each  
individual product, regardless of  
its application or price range.  
As new audio concepts and tech-  
nologies are pioneered, the part-  
nership of JBL and Harman  
Because of this, new materials,  
production methods and design  
refinements will be introduced  
into existing products without  
notice. For this reason, any  
current JBL product may differ  
in some respect from its pub-  
lished description, but will  
®
a group with a common purpose:  
combining technology with a love  
of music to manufacture audio  
products that provide new levels  
of satisfaction, performance  
and value.  
always equal or exceed the  
original design specifications  
unless otherwise stated.  
To promote diversity and creativity,  
JBL operates independently in  
research and development. When it  
comes to translating the results of  
these efforts into actual consumer  
and professional products, JBL  
International guarantees that con-  
sumer and professional audio  
users everywhere will be able to  
enjoy their full range of benefits.  
draws on the full combined strength  
of the Harman International compa-  
nies, which includes one of the  
JBL continually engages in  
research related to product  
development and improvement.  
JBL, Harman International and Bi-Radial are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated, registered in the  
United States and/or other countries.  
SonoGlass, Symmetrical Field Geometry (SFG) and Pro Sound Comes Home are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.  
Monster Cable is a registered trademark of Monster Cable Products, Inc.  
Kevlar and Nomex are registered trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company.  
Styrofoam is a trademark of The Dow Chemical Company.  
18  
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NOTES:  
19  
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®
PRO SOUND  
COMES HOME  
JBL Consumer Products  
250 Crossways Park Drive  
Woodbury, NY 11797 USA  
2 route de Tours  
72500 Chateau du Loir, France  
516.255.4JBL (USA only) www.jbl.com  
2005 Harman International Industries,  
©
Incorporated. All rights reserved.  
Part No. 361054-001  
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