JBL SCS 138 NL Surround Sound System User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your JBL SCS 138 NL 5.1 Surround Sound System. Please read these instructions carefully before using your system to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The JBL SCS 138 NL is a complete 5.1 channel home theater speaker system designed to deliver immersive surround sound for your entertainment needs. It includes a powered subwoofer and five satellite speakers (four for front/rear channels and one for the center channel).

2. Setup and Installation

Proper placement and connection of your speakers are crucial for optimal sound quality.

2.1 Speaker Placement

• Front Left and Right Speakers: Place these speakers equidistant from your primary listening position and on either side of your television or projection screen.
• Center Speaker: Position the center speaker directly above or below the center of your television screen, aimed towards the listening area.
• Surround Left and Right Speakers: Place these speakers to the sides or slightly behind your primary listening position, at or slightly above ear level.
• Subwoofer: The subwoofer can be placed almost anywhere in the room, but typically performs best in a corner or along a wall. Experiment with placement to find the best bass response for your room.

2.2 Connecting the System

Ensure your A/V receiver or amplifier is turned off before making any connections.

1. Satellite and Center Speakers: Connect the speaker wires from the five satellite speakers to the corresponding speaker terminals on your A/V receiver (Front Left, Front Right, Center, Surround Left, Surround Right). Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
2. Subwoofer: Connect an RCA audio cable from the subwoofer output on your A/V receiver to the LFE or Line Input on the JBL subwoofer. Then, connect the subwoofer's power cord to an electrical outlet.

The image displays the complete JBL SCS 138 NL 5.1 surround sound system, featuring a large, light-colored wooden subwoofer with a silver front panel and five compact silver satellite speakers. The subwoofer has a port and control knobs on its front. The satellite speakers are designed for discreet placement around a room.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Powering On/Off

• Subwoofer: After connecting the power cord, locate the power switch on the subwoofer (typically on the rear or front panel) and turn it to the 'ON' position. Some subwoofers may have an 'Auto' mode that powers on when an audio signal is detected.
• Overall System: The satellite and center speakers are passive and receive power from your A/V receiver. Turn on your A/V receiver to power the entire system.

3.2 Adjusting Settings

• Volume Control: Adjust the overall system volume using your A/V receiver's master volume control.
• Subwoofer Level: The subwoofer typically has a dedicated volume or level control. Adjust this to blend the bass output smoothly with the satellite speakers.
• Crossover Frequency: Your A/V receiver will likely have settings for speaker size and crossover frequency. Set the satellite speakers to 'Small' and the crossover frequency to around 80-100 Hz for optimal integration with the subwoofer. Refer to your receiver's manual for specific instructions.
• Surround Modes: Utilize the various surround sound modes available on your A/V receiver to enhance your listening experience for movies, music, and games.

4. Maintenance

To maintain the appearance and performance of your JBL SCS 138 NL system, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Clean the speaker cabinets and grilles with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners, abrasive materials, or chemical solvents, as these can damage the finish or components.
• Placement: Avoid placing speakers in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with excessive moisture or dust.
• Ventilation: Ensure the subwoofer has adequate ventilation, especially around its amplifier section, to prevent overheating.

5. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your JBL SCS 138 NL system, consult the following troubleshooting guide:

• No Sound from Speakers:
  • Ensure your A/V receiver is powered on and the correct input source is selected.
  • Check all speaker wire connections at both the speakers and the receiver for proper polarity and secure contact.
  • Verify the subwoofer is powered on and connected correctly.
  • Check the receiver's volume level and mute settings.
• No Sound from Subwoofer:
  • Confirm the subwoofer's power cord is securely plugged into a live electrical outlet and the power switch is 'ON'.
  • Check the RCA cable connection between the subwoofer and the receiver.
  • Ensure the subwoofer output is enabled in your receiver's settings.
  • Adjust the subwoofer's volume/level control.
• Distorted or Unclear Sound:
  • Check all speaker wire connections for loose strands or short circuits.
  • Reduce the volume level on your receiver; distortion can occur if the amplifier is overdriven.
  • Ensure the speaker impedance is compatible with your receiver.
• Unbalanced Sound (e.g., one speaker louder than others):
  • Verify speaker placement and ensure all speakers are connected with correct polarity.
  • Use your A/V receiver's speaker level calibration feature to balance the output of each speaker.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information regarding your JBL SCS 138 NL Surround Sound System, please refer to the warranty card or documentation included with your purchase. You may also contact your retailer or visit the official JBL website for the most current warranty terms and conditions applicable to your region.

8. Support

Should you require technical assistance, have questions about your product, or need to report an issue, please contact JBL customer support. You can typically find contact information and support resources on the official JBL website (www.jbl.com). When contacting support, please have your model name (SCS 138 NL) and model number (10111805) readily available.