JBL Stage 2 245C Center Channel Loudspeaker Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the JBL Stage 2 245C Center Channel Loudspeaker. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your speaker to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Please read these instructions thoroughly before use.

Front view of the JBL Stage 2 245C center channel loudspeaker without the grille, showcasing the four woofers and central HDI horn tweeter.

2. Safety Information

To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to your equipment, observe the following precautions:

Read Instructions: Retain this manual for future reference.
Heed Warnings: Follow all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Attachments/Accessories: Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Placement: Place the speaker on a stable, level surface. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near sources of moisture.
Speaker Wires: Ensure speaker wires are properly connected and free from damage. Avoid short circuits.

3. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

JBL Stage 2 245C Center Channel Loudspeaker System (1 unit)

4. Setup

4.1 Speaker Placement

Proper placement of your center channel speaker is crucial for optimal sound imaging and dialogue clarity in a home theater system. The center channel speaker is primarily responsible for reproducing dialogue and on-screen sound effects.

Location: Position the center channel speaker directly above or below the center of your television or projection screen.
Height: Ideally, the tweeter of the center channel speaker should be as close to the height of the main left and right speakers' tweeters as possible, and at or near ear level when seated.
Distance: Ensure the speaker is placed at an equal distance from the primary listening position as your main left and right speakers to maintain proper sound staging.
Clear Path: Avoid placing objects in front of the speaker that could obstruct the sound.

A lifestyle image showing the JBL Stage 2 245C center channel loudspeaker with its grille installed, placed within a home entertainment setup beneath a receiver.

4.2 Connecting to Your Receiver

The JBL Stage 2 245C is a passive loudspeaker and requires connection to an audio/video (AV) receiver or amplifier. Use high-quality speaker wire for the best performance.

Power Off: Ensure your AV receiver/amplifier is turned off and unplugged from the power outlet before making any connections.
Identify Terminals: Locate the speaker terminals on the back of your JBL Stage 2 245C speaker and on your AV receiver. The terminals are typically color-coded (red for positive +, black for negative -).
Prepare Speaker Wire: Strip approximately 1/2 inch (12mm) of insulation from the ends of your speaker wire. Twist the bare strands tightly.
Connect to Speaker: Connect the positive (+) terminal of the speaker to the positive (+) center channel output terminal on your receiver. Connect the negative (-) terminal of the speaker to the negative (-) center channel output terminal on your receiver. Ensure no stray wire strands are touching each other or other terminals, which could cause a short circuit.
Verify Polarity: Maintain consistent polarity for all speakers in your system (positive to positive, negative to negative) to ensure proper phase and sound reproduction.

Refer to your AV receiver's manual for specific connection instructions and speaker setup procedures.

5. Operating Your Speaker

As a passive speaker, the JBL Stage 2 245C does not have its own controls. Its operation is managed entirely through your connected AV receiver or amplifier.

Power On/Off: Turn your AV receiver on or off as usual. The speaker will receive power and audio signals from the receiver.
Input Selection: Select the desired audio/video input on your receiver for your source device (e.g., Blu-ray player, streaming device).
Volume Control: Adjust the overall system volume using your receiver's volume control.
Speaker Level Calibration: For optimal performance, use your AV receiver's automatic speaker calibration feature (e.g., Audyssey, MCACC, YPAO) if available. This will set appropriate levels, distances, and equalization for your center channel speaker within your listening environment.
Break-in Period: Like many loudspeakers, your JBL Stage 2 245C may benefit from a break-in period of several hours of normal use. During this time, the drivers will loosen up, potentially leading to a more refined sound.

6. Maintenance

Proper care will help maintain the appearance and performance of your JBL Stage 2 245C loudspeaker.

Cleaning the Cabinet: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the cabinet surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents, as they may damage the finish.
Cleaning the Grille: The fabric grille can be gently vacuumed with a soft brush attachment to remove dust. If necessary, it can be carefully removed and hand-washed with mild soap and water, then allowed to air dry completely before reattaching.
Driver Care: Avoid touching the speaker cones or tweeters directly, as this can cause damage.
Environmental Conditions: Keep the speaker away from extreme temperatures, high humidity, and direct sunlight.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your JBL Stage 2 245C speaker, consult the following troubleshooting guide. For persistent problems, contact JBL customer support.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound from speaker	Loose or incorrect speaker wire connections. Receiver input not selected correctly. Receiver volume too low or muted. Speaker protection mode activated on receiver.	Check all speaker wire connections at both the speaker and receiver. Ensure correct polarity (+ to +, - to -). Verify the correct input source is selected on your AV receiver. Increase receiver volume and check for mute function. Consult your receiver's manual for troubleshooting speaker protection.
Distorted or unclear sound	Loose speaker wire connections. Overdriving the speaker/amplifier. Incorrect speaker settings on receiver. Speaker placed too close to a wall or corner.	Check all speaker wire connections. Reduce the volume level. Ensure your amplifier has adequate power for the speaker. Run your receiver's automatic speaker calibration. Adjust speaker placement to allow for proper bass response and imaging.
Dialogue sounds muffled or unclear	Incorrect center channel level. Obstruction in front of the speaker. Speaker not positioned optimally.	Adjust the center channel level in your receiver's settings. Remove any objects blocking the speaker's sound path. Ensure the speaker is positioned directly below or above the TV and aimed towards the listening area.

8. Specifications

The following are the technical specifications for the JBL Stage 2 245C Center Channel Loudspeaker:

Dimensions of the JBL Stage 2 245C center channel loudspeaker.

Feature	Description
Model Name	Stage 245C
Speaker Type	Center Channel (Bookshelf-style)
Material	Aluminum (Tweeter), Polycellulose (Woofers)
Woofer Diameter	Quad 4.5 inches (114mm) Polycellulose Ribbed Cone Woofers
Tweeter Diameter	1 inch (25mm) Anodized Aluminum Tweeter with Next Generation HDI™ Horn
Crossover	Precision 2.5-Way Crossover
Ports	Dual Rear-Firing Tuned Ports (Bass-Reflex Design)
Impedance	6 Ohms
Speaker Maximum Output Power	150 Watts
Audio Driver Type	Dynamic Driver
Audio Output Mode	Surround
Recommended Uses	For Music Players, For Surround Sound Systems, For Televisions
Compatible Devices	Home Theater, Television
Surround Sound Channel Configuration	5.1
Product Dimensions (D x W x H)	6.1" x 29.1" x 8.5" (15.5 cm x 73.9 cm x 21.6 cm)
Item Weight	26.4 pounds (12 Kilograms)
Color	Latte
Mounting Type	Shelf Mount
UPC	050036401883
Manufacturer	JBL

Close-up view of a single 4.5-inch polycellulose ribbed cone woofer, part of the JBL Stage 2 245C speaker.

Close-up of a 4.5-inch polycellulose ribbed cone woofer.

Close-up view of the 1-inch anodized aluminum tweeter integrated into the Next Generation HDI™ horn, located in the center of the JBL Stage 2 245C speaker.

Close-up of the 1-inch anodized aluminum tweeter with HDI™ horn.

Internal view of the precision 2.5-way crossover network board.

9. Warranty and Support

Your JBL Stage 2 245C Center Channel Loudspeaker is covered by a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official JBL website for detailed warranty terms and conditions.

For technical support, service, or additional product information, please visit the JBL Support Website or contact your local JBL authorized dealer.

	JBL Stage 2 Series Loudspeakers Quick Start Guide Get started quickly with the JBL Stage 2 Series Loudspeakers. This guide provides setup, placement, and connection information for your new JBL audio system, leveraging over 75 years of JBL's audio expertise.
	JBL Stage 2 Series Loudspeakers: Quick Start Guide and Specifications Comprehensive guide to setting up, placing, and connecting your JBL Stage 2 Series loudspeakers. Includes model specifications, assembly instructions, and placement recommendations for an optimal audio experience.
	JBL HDI Series Loudspeakers Owner's Manual: Setup, Placement, and Specifications Owner's manual for the JBL HDI Series loudspeakers, covering models HDI-1600, HDI-3600, HDI-3800, and HDI-4500. Provides detailed information on placement, connections, caring for your speakers, and technical specifications. Learn how to set up your home theater system for optimal audio performance.
	JBL Synthesis SCL-1 High Performance Loudspeaker Owner's Manual Detailed owner's manual for the JBL Synthesis SCL-1 high-performance loudspeaker, covering installation, placement, wiring, specifications, and care. Learn how to set up and optimize your audio system.
	JBL SCL-2 In-Wall Loudspeaker Owner's Manual Comprehensive owner's manual for the JBL SCL-2 in-wall loudspeaker, covering installation, placement, wiring, and specifications for optimal home theater audio performance.
	JBL Stage 2 Series Loudspeakers Quick Start Guide Get started quickly with your JBL Stage 2 Series loudspeakers. This guide provides setup, placement, connection, and specification details for models like the 240B, 250B, 260F, 280F, 240H, and 245C.

JBL Stage 245C