JBL Stage 2 Architectural Loudspeakers

Overview

Supported Products

The following products are supported within this document.

In-Wall Models

In-Ceiling Models

Associated Accessories

There are several accessories available for new construction installations as well as square grille kits to change the appearance of the in-ceiling speakers.

Preconstruction Brackets

Square Grille Kits

Box Contents

• 1x Stage Architectural Loudspeaker
• 1x Zero Bezel Grille
• 1x Cutout Template
• 1x Quick Start Guide (This Document)

Safety Warnings

⚠ IMPORTANT! HARMAN International assumes no responsibility for improper installation of hardware or for any personal injuries or product damages resulting from improper installation or a fallen loudspeaker.

Read through this document in its entirety and heed all warnings before proceeding with the installation of these product(s).

⚠ IMPORTANT! Installation Precautions

Due to the nature of this product, there are several precautions to follow before installation can begin.

1. Allow sufficient clearance between the speaker and any insulation that may be in the wall cavity to avoid ignition should overheating occur.
   • 1" (26mm) for Non-Flammable Materials
   • 3" (78mm) for Flammable Materials
2. Ensure that all wire run inside of walls and ceiling meets or exceeds local fire codes for hidden wiring.
3. Determine wire lengths and select the proper gauge speaker wire to use based on the table under Wire Gauge by Distance.
4. Do NOT overtighten the dog legs when securing the speaker to surfaces as this may cause the speaker to come loose. If using a power screwdriver, set it to the lowest settings.
5. Do NOT connect the speakers to an amplifier rated above the recommended amplifier power. Overdriving the speaker can cause an overheating condition increasing the risk of injury.
6. Do NOT connect the amplifier end of the wire until all speakers are wired and installed.
7. Determine and purchase any accessories such as pre-construction brackets before beginning the installation process. Refer to Associated Accessories for a list of available brackets.
8. Ensure that wall and ceiling board material is between 1½" (13mm) and 2" (51mm) thick and capable of supporting the weight of the speaker.

Installation

Before proceeding with the installation, be sure to read through these instructions carefully and in full to ensure that the installation will be complete and accurate. Should at any time these instructions seem unclear, contact your dealer or customer support for assistance.

Preinstallation Preparations

While these architectural speakers have been designed to perform in a variety of environments, there are some guidelines to follow to ensure that you will be getting the best out of the speakers.

1. Read through the IMPORTANT! Installation Precautions before proceeding to ensure that all safety precautions have been met.
2. Determine a location for the speakers within the room and position on the wall and/or ceiling. Note that positioning them near boundaries such as other walls, ceilings, or floors may increase reflection that may have an adverse affect on the sound.
3. Determine wire lengths and select the proper gauge speaker wire to use based on the table under Wire Gauge by Distance.
4. Run all wires from the amplifier location to the speaker location so that they are available when the speaker is installed. Ensure that wires are not connected at the amplifier at this time.
5. For new construction, ensure that all brackets are on hand and installed in the walls before installing the speakers. Install Pre-Construction brackets per instructions included with the brackets.
6. For existing walls and ceilings, position the included cutout template onto the wall or ceiling and trace an outline onto the wall. Ensure that the template is an equal distance from studs to allow for the XL-2 legs to fully extend. Use a stud finder if needed.

   A diagram shows a cutout template for a speaker. Dimensions labeled 'A' indicate the placement relative to studs, with a minimum requirement of A - 3/4" (19 mm).

7. Using a Drywall saw, cut out a section of the wall/ceiling within the confines of the trace for the cutout.

Wire Gauge by Distance

Installing the Speakers

1. Follow the steps under Preinstallation Preparations that apply to the installation.
2. Set the XL-2 legs on the speaker to the installation position. They must be inside the frame of the speaker in order to install the speaker into the cutout.

   A diagram shows the XL-2 leg inside the speaker frame, indicating its position for installation.

3. Attach the included safety wire to a stud inside the wall/ceiling near the side of the speaker with the safety ring eyelet.
4. Pull wire through the pre-construction bracket or hole in the wall/ceiling.
5. Strip 1/4" (6.5mm) of insulation off each wire.
6. Starting with the negative terminal (black), gently press down on the terminal, insert the wire, and release. Repeat for the positive (red) terminal.
7. Install the speaker into the cutout/bracket, hold firmly to the wall, and tighten the screws for the XL-2 legs.

   CAUTION! Do NOT overtighten the screws as this can strip the legs and cause the speaker to come loose from the wall/ceiling.

8. Install the grille onto the speaker by gently placing it over the speaker until the magnets click and pull the grille onto the speaker.

Specifications

In-Walls

In-Ceiling (Standard)

In-Ceiling (Special Use)

Installation Tools

Pre-Construction Brackets

Square Grille Kits

Company Information

Harman International Industries, Incorporated.
8500 Balboa Blvd, Northridge CA 91329 United States.

European Representative: Harman International Industries, Incorporated.
EMEA Liaison Office, Danzigerkade 16G, 1013 AP Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

UK Business Address: Ground Floor, Westside 2, London Road, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 9TD, United Kingdom.

© 2022 Harman International Industries, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.

JBL is a trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated registered in the United States and other countries.

Features, Specifications, and Appearance subject to change without notice.

Part No. 950-0618-001