1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Sony XS-NW1200 Xplod 12-inch Car Audio Subwoofer. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure safe and optimal performance.
The Sony XS-NW1200 is designed to deliver powerful and clear bass. Key features include:
- Experience louder, deeper bass with a 30cm (12”) polypropylene cone.
- Enjoy high power handling with 1800W maximum total output power.
- A dimpled woofer cone adds extra rigidity for low and accurate bass tones.
- Acoustic distortion is minimized by a stroke stabilizer rubber surround.
- Heat resistant voice coil for durability and long travel, with 300 Watt RMS Power.
2. Safety Information
To prevent fire, electric shock, or product damage, observe the following precautions:
- Professional Installation Recommended: Installation of car audio components requires experience with electrical wiring and automotive procedures. It is highly recommended to have this product installed by a qualified professional.
- Power Handling: Do not exceed the rated power handling of the subwoofer (1800W Peak, 300W RMS). Overpowering can lead to permanent damage.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the subwoofer and amplifier to prevent overheating.
- Wiring: Use appropriate gauge wiring for power and speaker connections. Ensure all connections are secure and insulated to prevent short circuits.
- Volume Levels: Prolonged exposure to high volume levels can cause hearing damage. Adjust volume to a comfortable level.
- Mounting: Securely mount the subwoofer enclosure to prevent it from shifting during vehicle movement, which could cause injury or damage.
3. Unpacking
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure all items listed below are present and undamaged.
Contents:
- Sony XS-NW1200 Subwoofer
- User Manual (this document)

Figure 3.1: Front view of the Sony XS-NW1200 Xplod 12-inch Subwoofer. This image displays the polypropylene cone and the Xplod branding.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1. Choosing an Enclosure
The performance of your subwoofer is highly dependent on the enclosure it is mounted in. Consult with a car audio specialist or refer to recommended enclosure specifications for optimal sound quality. Common enclosure types include sealed and ported designs, each offering different acoustic characteristics.
4.2. Wiring Connections
The XS-NW1200 is a single 4-ohm voice coil subwoofer. Ensure your amplifier is stable at a 4-ohm load. Connect the subwoofer to your amplifier's speaker output terminals using appropriate gauge speaker wire.
- Connect the positive (+) terminal of the subwoofer to the positive (+) terminal of the amplifier's subwoofer output.
- Connect the negative (-) terminal of the subwoofer to the negative (-) terminal of the amplifier's subwoofer output.
- Ensure all connections are tight and free from stray wire strands that could cause short circuits.

Figure 4.1: Rear view of the Sony XS-NW1200 Subwoofer, showing the wiring terminals at the bottom and the specifications (Peak Power: 1800W, RMS Power: 420W, Rated Power: 300W, Rated Impedance: 4Ω) on the magnet structure.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Amplifier Settings
Properly setting your amplifier is crucial for optimal subwoofer performance and longevity. Refer to your amplifier's manual for detailed instructions on adjusting the following:
- Gain Control: Set the gain to match the output voltage of your head unit. Avoid setting the gain too high, as this can introduce distortion and damage the subwoofer.
- Low-Pass Filter (LPF): Set the LPF to filter out high frequencies, allowing only bass frequencies to reach the subwoofer. A common starting point is 80-100 Hz.
- Bass Boost: Use bass boost sparingly, if at all. Excessive bass boost can lead to clipping and damage.
- Subsonic Filter: If your amplifier has a subsonic filter, set it to protect the subwoofer from playing frequencies below its resonant frequency, which can cause excessive excursion and damage.
5.2. Break-in Period
Allow a break-in period of approximately 10-20 hours of moderate use before operating the subwoofer at high volumes. This allows the suspension components to loosen up and achieve their optimal performance characteristics.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and performance of your subwoofer.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the subwoofer cone and surround. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the subwoofer for any signs of damage, such as tears in the cone or surround, loose connections, or corrosion on the terminals.
- Environment: Keep the subwoofer away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your subwoofer, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from subwoofer |
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| Distorted or unclear bass |
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| Weak or insufficient bass |
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If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, contact Sony customer support or a qualified car audio technician.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | XS-NW1200 |
| Speaker Type | Surround Sound Subwoofer |
| Subwoofer Diameter | 12 Inches (30 cm) |
| Peak Power Output | 1800 Watts |
| RMS Power | 300 Watts |
| Rated Impedance | 4 Ohms |
| Material | Polypropylene, Rubber |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 7.4"D x 14.45"W x 14.65"H |
| Item Weight | 4 Kilograms (8.8 pounds) |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired (Speaker Wires) |
| Voltage | 12 Volts (for car audio systems) |
| Manufacturer | Sony |
9. Warranty and Support
This Sony XS-NW1200 Subwoofer comes with a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sony support website.
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or to inquire about service, please contact Sony customer support:
- Online Support: Visit the official Sony Support Website.
- Phone Support: Refer to your region's Sony website for local contact numbers.





