JBL IRX100 Series User's Guide
This guide provides information for the JBL IRX100 Series portable loudspeakers, including the IRX108-BT and IRX112-BT models.
Safety Instructions
General Precautions:
- This apparatus is not intended for use in high moisture environments. Avoid exposing the speakers to direct moisture.
- Keep speakers out of extended or intense direct sunlight.
- Avoid placing the speaker on slippery surfaces to prevent movement due to acoustic energy output.
- Hearing Damage Warning: Prolonged exposure to sound pressure levels (SPL) in excess of 85 dB can cause permanent hearing damage.
- Care & Cleaning: Clean with a dry cloth only. Do not allow moisture into openings. Ensure the system is unplugged from the AC outlet before cleaning.
- Hazard Warning: This apparatus contains potentially lethal voltages. Do not remove chassis, mixer module, or AC input covers. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
WEEE Notice: Follow local regulations for the disposal of electronic waste.
RoHS Compliance: This product complies with EU directives restricting hazardous substances.
REACH Compliance: This product contains lead (CAS-No. 7439-92-1) in a concentration of more than 0.1% per weight, as per REACH regulations.
Specific Warnings:
- Do not use near water.
- Do not block ventilation openings.
- Do not install near heat sources.
- Do not defeat the purpose of polarized or grounding plugs.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched.
- Use only manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
- Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer.
- Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Do not expose to dripping or splashing; do not place liquid-filled objects on the apparatus.
- Disconnect the power supply cord plug to completely disconnect from AC mains.
- Ensure the mains plug or appliance coupler is readily operable.
- Do not overload wall outlets or extension cords.
- Ensure adequate ventilation; do not install in confined spaces.
- Do not impede ventilation openings with items like newspaper or curtains.
- Electrical Shock Warning: Do not expose to rain or moisture. No naked flame sources. Connect to a MAINS socket outlet with protective earthing. Operate only from specified voltages.
- FCC and Canada EMC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
- RF Exposure: Install and operate with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.
Declaration of Conformity
The JBL IRX100 Series complies with various European standards, including:
- EN 60065:2014 8th Ed. (Safety requirements for audio, video, and similar electronic apparatus)
- EN 62368-1:2014+A11:2017 (Safety requirements for audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment)
- EN 301489-1 V2.1.1 & EN 301489-17 V3.1.1 (Electromagnetic Compatibility - EMC standards)
- EN 300328 V2.1.1 (Wideband transmission systems)
- EN62479:2010 (Assessment of compliance with basic restrictions related to human exposure to electromagnetic fields)
- EN 55032:2015 & EN 55035:2017 (Electromagnetic compatibility of multimedia equipment)
- EN 61000-3-2:2014 & EN 61000-3-3:2013 (Electromagnetic Compatibility - Limits for harmonic current emissions and voltage fluctuations)
Quick Setup Guide
Packaging Contents: Your IRX100 system should include: 1 x IRX100 speaker, 1 x 2M (6.5ft) IEC Power Cable, 1 x Quick Start Guide.
Unboxing:
- Open the top of the box.
- Lay the box on its side.
- Turn the box upside down, then lift the box up to reveal the speaker.
Configuration Options:
- Floor Standing
- Monitor Position
- Pole Mounted
- Subwoofer Mounted
Powering On:
- Connect the power cord to the Power Receptacle.
- Press the Power Standby switch for 0.5 seconds to engage power.
Plugging in the Inputs:
- Turn the Master Volume Control all the way to the left before connecting any inputs.
- Connect your devices to the Input Jacks.
Setting Up the Channels:
- Select a preset using the EQ Preset Selection Button.
- Determine the CH1 & CH2 Gain source (set to 3 o'clock for microphone, 9 o'clock for line source).
- Slowly turn the Master Volume to the right until the desired volume is reached.
Pairing Bluetooth Audio:
- Turn on Bluetooth on your source device.
- Hold the Bluetooth button for 2 seconds until the LED blinks (pairing mode).
- Find and select the desired IRX speaker on your device. A connection tone will be heard upon successful connection.
Back Panel Overview
- A. EQ Preset Selection Button: Toggles through four settings (Music, Vocal, Speech, Normal).
- B. EQ Preset LED Indicators: Show the currently selected EQ preset.
- C. Bass Boost: Increases bass volume.
- D. CH1 & CH2 Gain: Controls the input gain for channels 1 and 2.
- E. XLR-1/4" Combo Inputs: Balanced inputs accepting XLR (female) or 1/4" phone plugs for various signal sources (mic, line).
- F. Automatic Feedback Suppression (AFS): dbx AFS technology prevents feedback.
- G. Music Ducking: Automatically lowers music volume when speech input is detected.
- H. Power Standby: Turns the unit on or off.
- I. Bluetooth Indicator: Illuminates blue when a Bluetooth connection is established.
- J. Master Volume: Controls the overall volume of the speaker.
- K. XLR Male Loop Thru: XLR output for sending audio to an external source.
- L. Power Receptacle: Connects the supplied power cord to an AC outlet.
Overview - IRX100 Series Family
The JBL IRX100 Series offers a step forward in portable PA technology, delivering excellent sound quality in an affordable, self-contained system. Key features include:
- IRX108-BT: Powered 8" Portable Speaker with Bluetooth® (1300 Watt, 17.4 lb, 90°x60° coverage)
- IRX112-BT: Powered 12" Portable Speaker with Bluetooth® (1300 Watt, 27.3 lb, 90°x60° coverage)
- JBL's advanced waveguide technology and custom-designed transducers.
- Durable construction with honeycomb steel grille.
- Lightweight design with ergonomic handles.
- Built-in pole mount.
These speakers are designed for musicians, performers, presenters, and installations requiring professional sound quality with ease of use.
IRX108BT Specifications
Technical Specifications:
- System Type: Powered 8" two-way
- Cabinet: Polypropylene with full grille
- Sensitivity (SPL): 124 dB peak
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): 54 Hz – 20 kHz
- Power Rating: 1300 watts peak
- Input Impedance: 10k ohm balanced
- Coverage Pattern: 90° (horizontal) x 60° (vertical) nominal
- Bluetooth: Audio streaming, Bluetooth version 5.0
- DSP: 4 presets, feedback suppression, ducking
- I/O: 2 XLR/TRS combo mic/line inputs, 1 XLR pass-thru output, 35 mm pole socket
- Mounting: Pole mount
- Net Weight: 17.4 lb (7.9 kg)
- Dimensions (D x W x H): 10.15 x 12.32 x 19.15 in (258 x 313 x 486 mm)
Order Specifications:
- Shipping Carton (L x W x H): 10.87 x 13.35 x 20.35 in (276 x 339 x 517 mm)
- Shipping Weight: 20.5 lb (9.3 kg)
- UPC Code: 691991033506
IRX112BT Specifications
Technical Specifications:
- System Type: Powered 12" two-way
- Cabinet: Polypropylene with full grille
- Sensitivity (SPL): 127 dB peak
- Frequency Response (±3 dB): 53 Hz – 20 kHz
- Power Rating: 1300 watts peak
- Input Impedance: 10k ohm balanced
- Coverage Pattern: 90° (horizontal) x 60° (vertical) nominal
- Bluetooth: Audio streaming, Bluetooth version 5.0
- DSP: 4 presets, feedback suppression, ducking
- I/O: 2 XLR/TRS combo mic/line inputs, 1 XLR pass-thru output, 35 mm pole socket
- Mounting: Pole mount
- Net Weight: 27.3 lb (12.4 kg)
- Dimensions (D x W x H): 11.77 x 15.75 x 24.35 in (299 x 400 x 618.4 mm)
Order Specifications:
- Shipping Carton (L x W x H): 12.64 x 16.61 x 25.59 in (321 x 422 x 650 mm)
- Shipping Weight: 32 lb (14.51 kg)
- UPC Code: 691991033544
Applications / Features
Applications:
- Musicians/Performers: For portable, affordable, great-sounding reinforcement.
- Presenters/Instructors: Easy-to-use, compact PA with Bluetooth and music ducking.
- Hospitality/Government Installations: Professional sound quality with ease of use and minimal setup.
Features:
- Four real-world EQ presets.
- dbx AFS feedback suppression.
- Bluetooth integration for stereo streaming.
- One-touch ducking for automatic music volume reduction during speech.
- Wide frequency response: 53 Hz – 20 kHz.
- Lightweight design.
- 1300W Wattage.
- 2 XLR/TRS combo input jacks and 1 XLR out.
- Input accepts mic or line source.
- Ergonomic handles for easy transport.
- Durable honeycomb steel grille.
- Built-in pole mount.
Music Ducking / Automatic Feedback Suppression
Music Ducking: Automatically attenuates music volume when speech is detected. To use: Press the "Music Ducking" button, plug in a microphone, pair a BT device, and adjust microphone gain. Ducking will occur automatically.
Automatic Feedback Suppression (AFS): dbx AFS prevents feedback. To activate, press the AFS button. To reset AFS notch filters, press and hold the Power button for 3 seconds while the AFS button is ON.
Bluetooth Integration
Streaming Bluetooth Audio to a Single IRX Speaker:
- Press the Bluetooth button for 2 seconds until the light blinks slowly.
- Navigate to your device's Bluetooth settings.
- Select the IRX speaker. A connection tone will confirm success.
Pairing Two IRX Speakers for True Stereo Operation:
- Fresh Start: Remove and forget both speakers from your device's Bluetooth settings. On the first speaker, press and hold the Bluetooth button until all lights turn off and the Power light flashes. Repeat for the second speaker.
- Pair the Right Speaker: Go to the speaker designated as the Right speaker. Press and hold the Bluetooth button until the light flashes. On your device, find the IRX speaker under available Bluetooth devices and pair to it.
- Link the Left Speaker to the Right Speaker: On the Right speaker, press and hold the Bluetooth button until both the Power LED and Bluetooth LED blink. Repeat for the Left speaker. After approximately 30 seconds, the speakers will pair to each other.
- Verify Paired Status: On your device, check the Bluetooth status. Android devices will show "Paired." iOS devices may show "Not Connected" and require re-selection to establish the connection.
- The Final Link: Link the Left speaker to your device by shortly pressing its Bluetooth button. On your device, pair the Left speaker. You will now have true stereo sound. Both speakers will appear as "Connected" (iOS) or "Connected" and "Paired" (Android).
To exit true stereo Bluetooth streaming mode: Press and hold the BT button for 5 seconds until LEDs blink, then press the BT button again to unpair.
Loudspeaker Placement and Suspension
Placement Guidelines:
- Raise speakers high: Aim for the high-frequency horn to be 2-4 feet above audience heads for optimal sound distribution.
- Position between microphones and audience: This helps prevent feedback. If space is limited, point speakers away from microphones.
- Locate away from turntables: Reduces low-frequency feedback caused by turntable tonearms.
- Use more speakers in large or reverberant spaces: Distribute speakers for better sound coverage rather than relying solely on loudness or equalization. Consider time-delayed speakers for very long distances.
Mounting Options:
- Floor Monitor: For stage monitoring, tilt speakers back.
- Floor Standing: Upright stance for even coverage over a wide area.
- Tripod Stand: Standard mounting option.
- Stacking: Multiple speakers can be stacked.
- Pole Mount: For mounting on speaker poles.
Cables & Connectors
Descriptions and diagrams for various audio cables and their uses:
- XLR/F to XLR/M Microphone Cable: Standard for microphone and line level signals in professional audio systems.
- TRS (balanced) 1/4 inch phone jack to XLR/M: For connecting balanced devices.
- TRS (unbalanced) 1/4 inch phone jack to XLR/M: For connecting instruments with unbalanced outputs to balanced XLR inputs.
- TS (unbalanced) 1/4 inch phone jack to XLR/M: Electrically identical to unbalanced TRS, may be used interchangeably.
- XLR/M to RCA (phono) cable: Connects consumer audio products and DJ mixer outputs to professional audio equipment inputs.
- TRS 1/4 inch Phone jack to dual 1/4 inch Phone jack: Splits a stereo output into separate left/right signals.
- TRS 1/4 inch Phone jack to dual 1/4 inch Phone jack: Connects a portable MP3/CD player or computer sound cards to a mixer using a mini-phone jack.
- XLR/F to XLR/M audio ground lift: For balanced in- and outputs.
Application Examples
Diagrams illustrate common setup configurations:
- Small PA using Both Inputs and Thru Function: CH1 input set to "Mic", CH2 input set to "Line". Main Speaker Position.
- Small PA using Two Systems as Monitors: CH1 input set to "Mic", CH2 input set to "Line". Monitor Speaker Position.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| No sound | Speaker not connected to active AC power / Power not switched on / Speaker in bypass mode | Verify connection and power. Twist knob or press bypass button to wake speaker. |
| No sound, speaker is connected to working AC power but won't come on. | Speaker power cable is faulty or improperly connected. | Re-seat power cable at both ends. Substitute a known-good power cable. |
| No sound. Speaker comes on. | Signal source is not sending / Faulty cables and connections | Check source meters, verify signal. Disconnect and re-seat signal cables. Replace suspected cable. |
| No sound with microphone connected directly to the MIC/LINE input. | Microphone requires phantom power | Use a dynamic microphone, battery-powered microphone, or external phantom power supply. |
| Signal sounds distorted and very loud, PEAK light is lit most of the time. | Excessive input signal, trying to exceed speaker capabilities. | Reduce source output level. Turn down speaker level controls. Use additional speakers. |
| Signal sounds distorted even at moderate volumes, LIMIT light is not lit. | Mixer or other source is overdriven / Improper gain structure | Review mixer manual for input sensitivity (gain), channel faders, master faders. Ensure MIC/LINE switch is set correctly. |
| Lots of hiss in the sound, the mixer controls are at very low settings. | Improper gain structure / Noisy source device | Review mixer manual for gain settings. Check source device. |
| Noise or hiss heard at output. | Improper A/C ground or faulty equipment connected to mixer input / Faulty cable between source equipment and mixer | Disconnect devices one at a time to isolate the problem. Substitute known-good cable. |
| Hum or Buzz that increases or decreases when the mixer level controls are moved. | Improper A/C grounding, ground loops | Lift audio ground using XLR adapter. Re-route audio cables away from AC power. Use balanced outputs. Use a DI box for unbalanced outputs. |
| Hum or Buzz | Excessively long unbalanced cable run / Improper system gain structure | Reduce input level controls and increase source output level. |
Warranty Information
JBL Limited Warranty:
- Duration: 5 years for loudspeakers (except enclosures), 3 years for amplifiers, 2 years for enclosures and other products, from the date of original purchase.
- Coverage: Defects in material and workmanship.
- Not Covered: Damage from accident, misuse, abuse, modification, neglect, shipment, unauthorized repairs, misrepresentations, defaced serial numbers.
- Who Pays: JBL pays for all labor and material expenses for covered repairs.
- Obtaining Service: Contact JBL Professional Customer Service at 8500 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, California 91329 or call 818/893-8411. Original bill of sale is required.
- Shipping: You are responsible for initial shipping charges; JBL pays return shipping charges for covered repairs.
- Limitations: Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this warranty. Consequential damages are excluded.
JBL Professional Contact: 8500 Balboa Blvd. Northridge, CA 91329 USA
Contact Information
Mailing Address: JBL Professional, 8500 Balboa Blvd., Northridge, CA 91329
Shipping Address: JBL Professional, 8500 Balboa Blvd., Dock 1, Northridge, CA 91329 (Do not return product without prior authorization.)
Customer Service: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Pacific Coast Time. Phone: 844.776.4899. Website: www.jblproservice.com
World Wide Web: www.jblpro.com
Professional Contacts Outside the USA: Contact your local JBL Professional Distributor. A list is available on the website.
