1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the JVC CS-BW120 300mm Subwoofer with Acoustic Box. This compact and easy-to-install subwoofer is designed to enhance your car audio experience with powerful bass. It features a 30cm cone, a peak power of 1300W, and a nominal RMS power of 150W. This manual provides essential information for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your subwoofer.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety instructions before installing and operating this product. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the product.
- Keep away from liquids. Exposure to moisture can cause electric shock or damage the unit.
- Avoid extreme heat. Do not expose the subwoofer to direct sunlight for prolonged periods or place it near heat sources.
- Keep out of reach of small children.
- Disconnect from power if not in use or during maintenance.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the subwoofer to prevent overheating.
- Always use appropriate wiring and fuses as recommended for car audio installations.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- JVC CS-BW120 Subwoofer with Acoustic Box
- Mounting hardware (if applicable)
- User Manual (this document)
4. Setup and Installation
The JVC CS-BW120 is designed for compact size and easy installation in your vehicle. Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance and safety.
4.1 Choosing a Mounting Location
Select a secure and well-ventilated location in your vehicle, typically the trunk or cargo area. Ensure the subwoofer is firmly mounted to prevent movement during driving, which could cause damage or injury.
4.2 Wiring Connections
The subwoofer connects via a terminal interface. Proper wiring is crucial for performance and safety. Consult your car audio system's manual and an amplifier's manual (if using an external amplifier) for specific wiring diagrams.
- Power Wire: Connect a heavy-gauge power wire directly from the car battery (with an inline fuse near the battery) to your amplifier. If the subwoofer has a built-in amplifier, connect it directly to the subwoofer's power input.
- Ground Wire: Connect a short, heavy-gauge ground wire from the amplifier/subwoofer to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis.
- Remote Turn-On Wire: Connect a remote turn-on wire from your head unit (stereo) to the amplifier/subwoofer's remote input. This turns the unit on/off with your car stereo.
- Audio Signal Wires: Connect RCA cables from your head unit's subwoofer output (or full-range output if using an amplifier with a built-in crossover) to the amplifier/subwoofer's input.
Always ensure all connections are secure and insulated to prevent short circuits.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed, follow these steps for initial operation and adjustment:
- Initial Power On: Turn on your car stereo. The subwoofer should power on automatically via the remote turn-on wire.
- Volume Adjustment: Start with the subwoofer's gain (level) control at its lowest setting. Gradually increase the gain until the bass output blends well with the rest of your car audio system without distortion.
- Crossover Settings: If your amplifier or head unit has a low-pass filter (LPF), set it to a frequency typically between 80Hz and 120Hz. This ensures the subwoofer only plays low frequencies.
- Phase Control: Some amplifiers/subwoofers have a phase switch (0° or 180°). Experiment with both settings to find the one that provides the most impactful and coherent bass response.
- Bass Boost: Use bass boost sparingly, if at all, as excessive boost can lead to distortion and potential damage.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your subwoofer.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the enclosure. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Avoid getting moisture into the speaker cone or terminals.
- Connection Check: Periodically check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to poor performance or damage.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the subwoofer to extreme temperatures or humidity. While designed for car use, prolonged exposure to harsh conditions can degrade materials.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your JVC CS-BW120 subwoofer, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from subwoofer | No power; loose connections; amplifier in protect mode; head unit settings. | Check power, ground, and remote wires. Ensure fuses are intact. Verify RCA cables are connected. Check head unit's subwoofer output settings. |
| Distorted sound | Gain set too high; improper crossover settings; damaged speaker. | Reduce amplifier gain. Adjust LPF settings. Check for physical damage to the cone. |
| Subwoofer not turning on | Remote turn-on wire disconnected; blown fuse; power wire issue. | Check remote wire connection to head unit. Inspect fuses. Verify power wire connection to battery. |
| Weak or muddy bass | Incorrect phase setting; low gain; improper enclosure. | Toggle phase switch (0°/180°). Increase gain slightly. Ensure enclosure is sealed and appropriate for the subwoofer. |
If the problem persists after trying these solutions, consult a professional car audio technician.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Subwoofer with Acoustic Box |
| Brand | JVC |
| Model | CS-BW120 |
| Subwoofer Driver Diameter | 30 cm (12") |
| Subwoofer RMS Power | 150 W |
| Subwoofer Maximum Power | 1300 W |
| Subwoofer Frequency Range | 37 - 2500 Hz |
| Subwoofer Sensitivity | 87 dB |
| Subwoofer Impedance | 4 Ohms |
| Magnet Type | Ferrite |
| Magnet Weight | 605 g |
| Subwoofer Driver Cone Material | Polypropylene |
| Bass Reflex | Yes |
| Cover Type | Enclosed |
| Product Color | Black |
| Shell Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
| Width | 486 mm |
| Depth | 269 mm |
| Height | 342 mm |
| Weight | 8.5 kg |
| Mounting Depth | 12.8 cm |
| Certification | CE |
9. User Tips
- Proper Tuning: Take the time to properly tune your subwoofer's gain, crossover, and phase settings. A well-tuned subwoofer integrates seamlessly with your main speakers, providing balanced and impactful bass without overpowering the rest of the audio.
- Enclosure Placement: Experiment with the subwoofer's placement within your vehicle's trunk or cargo area. Small changes in position can sometimes significantly affect bass response and sound quality.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your authorized JVC dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
