JL Audio C3-525 Evolution™ Convertible Component Speaker System

Welcome

Thank you for choosing a JL Audio Evolution™ C3 Convertible Component System for your automotive sound system. These Evolution™ Speakers have been designed and manufactured to exacting standards to ensure years of musical enjoyment in your vehicle. For maximum performance and extended warranty coverage, JL Audio highly recommends installation by an authorized JL Audio dealer. Your authorized dealer has the training, expertise, and installation equipment to ensure optimum performance. If you decide to install the speakers yourself, please take the time to read this manual thoroughly to familiarize yourself with its installation requirements and setup procedures.

If you have any questions regarding the instructions in this manual or any aspect of your amplifier's operation, please contact your authorized JL Audio dealer for assistance. For further assistance, please call the JL Audio Technical Support Department at (954) 443-1100 during business hours.

Specifications and Dimensions

Woofer Physical Dimensions

Tweeter Fixture Physical Dimensions

Crossover Network Physical Dimensions

C3-525 Specifications

• Woofers: Injection-Molded Polymer Frame, Patented Elevated Frame Cooling (U.S. Patent #6,219,431 & #6,229,902), DMA-Optimized Motor System, Mineral-Filled Polypropylene Cone, Rubber Surround, 1-in. / 25 mm Voice Coil, Kapton® Former, Low-Profile, Symmetrical Roll Spider, Ferrite Magnet
• Tweeters: 1.00 in. / 25 mm Silk Soft Dome with Ferrofluid Cooling and Damping and Neodymium Magnet. Fixed Angle Flush-Mount, Surface-Mount and Coaxial-Mount Systems.
• Crossover Networks: 2-way networks with 1st order low-pass and 3rd order high-pass filters, premium Mylar® capacitors, air-core inductors, 4-position adjustable tweeter output level, 3-position midrange presence control, Polyswitch tweeter protection.
• Continuous Power Handling: 65 Watts (RMS Method)
• Frequency Response: 53 Hz - 25 KHz (± 3 dB)
• Efficiency @ 1W/1m: 88.5 dB @ 1W/1m
• Nominal Impedance: 4 ohms

Included Components and Parts

• Two C3-525cw 5.25-inch (130 mm) Woofers
• Two C3-100ct 1.00-inch (25 mm) Tweeters
• Two C3-525-XO Crossover Networks
• Two Surface-Mount Tweeter Fixtures
• Two Coaxial-Mount Tweeter Fixtures
• Two Flush-Mount Tweeter Fixtures
• Two Metal Spring Clips for Tweeter Fixtures
• Two Metal Mesh Woofer Grilles with ABS Grille Trays
• Twelve #8 x 1.25 inch (32 mm) Sheet Metal Screws
• Four #6 x 1.00-inch (25 mm) Sheet Metal Screws
• Two 1.00-inch (25 mm) Machine Screws
• Eight Mounting Clips for Woofer Mounting
• Two 6.4 mm Female Crimpable Connectors
• Two 4.7 mm Male Crimpable Connectors
• Two 4.7 mm Female Crimpable Connectors
• Four 2.8 mm Female Crimpable Connectors
• Two 2.8 mm Male Crimpable Connectors
• Twelve Crimpable Spade Connectors
• One Woofer Mounting Template

Getting Started and Installation

Getting Started

• Turn off the audio system. It is also advisable to disconnect the negative (-) terminal of your vehicle's battery whenever performing installation work.
• Before cutting, drilling, or inserting any screw, check clearances on both sides of the planned mounting surface. Also check for any potential obstacles, such as window tracks and motors, wiring harnesses, etc. Check both sides of the vehicle, as many vehicles are not symmetrical.
• Always wear protective eyewear.

Crossover Network Installation

The crossover networks should be installed in a dry location inside your vehicle. DO NOT INSTALL THEM INSIDE OF A DOOR! Doors often get wet on the inside, which can damage your crossover networks and potentially damage your entire sound system. The crossovers can be screwed into a solid surface via two holes located under the protective cover of the case. To access these holes, squeeze the sides of the cover while gently pulling it away from the base. Ensure your mounting location will not cause damage to wiring, fuel lines, brake lines, or any other vital component of your vehicle. Once screwed in and connections are made, snap the protective cover back into place.

Tweeter Protection

The C3 crossover networks are equipped with an advanced electronic tweeter protection circuit designed to minimize the possibility of tweeter failure. This device monitors current going to the tweeter and will disconnect the tweeter from the signal when it senses overload. Should this occur, simply reduce the volume for a few seconds, and the protection circuit will reset itself automatically.

Crossover Network Adjustment

The crossover networks allow for tonal adjustments to the upper midrange response and tweeter level. These adjustments help fine-tune your system to suit listening preferences and compensate for various speaker mounting applications.

Adjustable Midrange Presence

Your C3 crossover networks provide a unique midrange presence control, located under the cover. The midrange presence is selectable via a set of pins and allows for three settings. These settings affect the amplitude of the upper midrange response of the C3 component woofer. JL Audio recommends starting with the "REF" (Reference) setting and adjusting up or down as needed to compensate for mounting location, orientation, or personal taste.

Diagram Description: A visual shows three positions for the midrange presence control: HIGH, REF, and LOW, adjusted by moving pins on terminals labeled IN+ and IN-.

Adjustable Tweeter Level

C3 crossover networks also provide four levels of tweeter adjustability to compensate for different mounting locations, vehicle interiors, and personal taste. These levels are selectable via pins located under the clear cover of each crossover case. JL Audio recommends starting in the "REF" (Reference) position. Experiment with alternate tweeter level settings by moving the pins to find the optimum tonal balance. It is safe to switch jumpers while the system is playing.

Diagram Description: A visual shows four positions for the tweeter level control: +2dB, REF, -2dB, and -4dB, adjusted by moving pins on terminals labeled T+ and T-.

Wiring Your Speaker System

System Configuration Options

C3 Convertible Components offer the option of installing speakers as separate component systems or as coaxial systems (tweeters mounted onto the center of each woofer).

Wiring Connections

Positive (+) and negative (-) connections to the crossover from the amplifier outputs are made with terminals labeled "IN+" and "IN-". The positive and negative outputs to the woofer connections are labeled "W+" and "W-" on the Crossover and should be connected to corresponding "WFR+" and "WFR-" terminals on the woofer. The tweeter connections vary by system configuration and may be made in one of two ways.

Component System Wiring

In component configuration, the tweeter outputs, labeled "T+" and "T-" on the Crossover, should be wired directly to the corresponding lead on the tweeter.

Diagram Description (Diagram A): Shows amplifier output connected to crossover "IN+" and "IN-". Crossover "W+" and "W-" connect to woofer "WFR+" and "WFR-". Crossover "T+" and "T-" connect directly to the tweeter.

Coaxial System Wiring

In coaxial configuration, the tweeter is connected via an internal jumper and the Crossover tweeter outputs should be wired to the corresponding "TWT+" and "TWT-" terminals on the woofer.

Diagram Description (Diagram B): Shows amplifier output connected to crossover "IN+" and "IN-". Crossover "W+" and "W-" connect to woofer "WFR+" and "WFR-". Crossover "TWT+" and "TWT-" connect to the woofer's integrated tweeter connection points.

WARNING: It is absolutely vital that your component system is connected as shown in this manual. Failure to connect the system as shown may result in damage to your speakers, which is NOT covered under warranty. Do not substitute different crossover networks into your C3 System. Do not use crossover networks intended for different C3 models.

Convertible Components Setup

Component System Set-Up

The component configuration is achieved by wiring the tweeter to the crossover separately and installing the included phase plugs onto the center of each woofer. The woofers are factory-packaged in the component system configuration with phase plugs installed. The phase plugs attach to the woofers using a simple bayonet (twist and lock) mechanism.

To remove phase plugs: Apply downward pressure with your thumb and index finger and twist 1/4 turn counter-clockwise until released. Then pull the phase plug off.

To reattach phase plugs: Align the two tabs on the inside of each phase plug with the grooves on the outer diameter of the receiver in the center of the woofer. Slide the phase plug down until it stops, applying gentle pressure. To lock, push down firmly/evenly with thumb and index finger and turn 1/4 turn clockwise.

For woofer mounting instructions, refer to Page 8. For separate tweeter mounting instructions, refer to Pages 12-13.

Coaxial System Set-Up

The coaxial configuration is achieved by installing a tweeter onto the center of each woofer using the supplied coaxial tweeter posts. First, remove the phase plugs from the woofers (if present) by pushing down firmly/evenly and turning 1/4 turn counter-clockwise to unlock and remove. Phase plugs are not used in coaxial configuration and should be set aside.

Next, route the tweeter's Positive (+) and Negative (-) wire leads through the center of the coaxial tweeter post from the large tweeter-cup end and out the smaller end. The tweeter mounts to the coaxial tweeter post using a simple bayonet (twist and lock) mechanism. Observe the indented locking slots on the outer edge of the tweeter body and align these with the tabs visible on the inside walls of the tweeter cup portion of the tweeter post. The tweeter should slide into place easily and can then be locked by pushing down on the tweeter and giving it a small clockwise turn.

With the tweeter installed into the tweeter post, connect the Positive (+) red wire lead on the tweeter to the larger male connection tab in the woofer's center, followed by the Negative (-) black lead to the smaller connection tab.

Now, note the two tabs on the inside of the bottom end of the tweeter post. Align these tabs to the channels visible on opposite sides of the receiver in the woofer's center. While tucking the wires into the tweeter post, slide the tweeter post down into place until it stops and is ready to be locked. To lock, push down firmly/evenly on the tweeter post with thumb and index finger and turn 1/4 turn clockwise.

For woofer mounting instructions, refer to Page 11.

Diagram Description (Diagram C): Illustrates coaxial system setup: routing tweeter wires through the post, attaching the tweeter via twist-lock, connecting wires to woofer terminals, and locking the post into the woofer.

Diagram Description (Diagram D): Illustrates component system setup: attaching the phase plug to the woofer via twist-lock mechanism.

Speaker Placement Considerations

Coaxial Placement Considerations

In most cases, coaxial speakers are placed into factory speaker locations. If you have mounting flexibility, keep the following in mind: Lower mounting locations, such as the lower front corner of a door or a kick-panel, provide the greatest path length distances for the sound emitted by the speakers. These are generally more desirable than higher mounting locations, which can result in extreme near-side soundstage bias, compromising the stereo listening experience.

Diagram Description (Diagram E): Shows a less desirable coaxial speaker placement high on a car door.

Diagram Description (Diagram F): Shows a more desirable coaxial speaker placement lower on a car door or in a kick-panel.

Component Placement Considerations

A component system configuration allows you to place the woofer and tweeter separately. As a general rule, tweeters should be placed relatively close to the woofers for best tonal balance and most coherent imaging (the closer, the better). Any separation greater than 8 inches (20 cm) is likely to result in degraded sound quality.

Diagram Description (Diagram G): Shows less desirable component placement with tweeters too far from woofers.

Diagram Description (Diagram H): Shows more desirable component placement with tweeters closer to woofers.

General Placement Advice

Avoid placing tweeters where they will be blocked by objects in the interior of the car (including seated occupants). When selecting a mounting location, check both sides of the car to ensure the location is clear.

You can experiment with tweeter placement before committing to a final location. Connect the system and allow plenty of wire length for the tweeters. Using Velcro® or similar material, attach the tweeters in different locations until you find the one where they perform best.

Woofers are usually placed into factory speaker locations. If you have woofer mounting flexibility, lower mounting locations, such as the lower front corner of a door or a kick-panel, provide the greatest path length distances for sound and are generally more desirable. Higher mounting locations often result in extreme near-side soundstage bias, compromising the stereo listening experience.

Woofer Installation

WARNING: Double check the clearance for both speakers before proceeding. Many cars are different from one side to the other!

Factory Location Installation

If using factory speaker wires, you may need to change terminations. This can be done using an adaptor plug or by cutting the factory connector off and using supplied crimp connectors. The large connector is for the positive (+) terminal and the small connector is for the negative (-) terminal. Ensure woofer wires are connected to the woofer outputs of the crossovers as shown on page 5. If running new wires, refer to the "Custom Location" section.

Observe correct polarity in all connections. If unsure, contact your JL Audio dealer for assistance.

Your new speakers are designed to install, without modifications, into most vehicles that accept a 6.5-inch (160 mm) speaker. Most factory 6.5-inch speakers use four mounting screws that will line up with the woofer's mounting holes.

It is vital that the speaker frame fits into the mounting hole cleanly. Check this prior to tightening screws. Do not force the frame into a hole that is too small. Do not tighten the speaker onto an uneven surface, as this will damage your speakers. The speaker should also fit so that air does not leak around the mounting flange. Air leaks will cause severe degradation in sound quality. Seal any air leaks with an automotive-grade sealant material.

Use the supplied mounting clips unless factory holes already feature threaded inserts. Hand-tighten the screws evenly.

Diagram Description (Diagram I): Shows factory location woofer installation with screws and mounting clips.

Custom Location Installation

Run speaker wire to the desired mounting locations. If running wires into a door, use existing factory wiring boots whenever possible. If drilling new holes, file their edges and install rubber grommets. Wires should be covered with a protective, flexible PVC sleeve and run through the door jamb, ensuring they clear door hinges and other structures. If unsure, contact your JL Audio dealer for installation help.

Select an even surface. Tightening a speaker onto an uneven surface can damage it. Carefully measure and mark the "mounting hole diameter" outline using the dimensions from page 2. Before drilling or cutting interior panels, use a utility knife to cut any fabric, vinyl, or leather from hole locations, as these materials can snag a drill or saw. Drill a pilot hole in the center of the proposed speaker mounting hole. Using a saber saw with an appropriate blade, make the circular cut out for the speaker. File any rough edges.

After cutting the hole, check that the speaker frame fits cleanly. Do not force it. Once the speaker is in place, use the holes on the speaker's mounting flange to mark the panel for the four mounting screws. Remove the speaker and drill 1/8-inch (3 mm) holes at each mark. Insert the mounting clips with the flat side towards the speaker. Connect the speaker wires, observing correct polarity, and secure the speaker and grille tray by evenly tightening the provided #8 x 1.25 inch (32 mm) mounting screws. Ensure the woofer is secured so that air does not leak around the mounting flange. Seal any air leaks with an automotive-grade sealant material.

Diagram Description (Diagram J): Shows custom location woofer installation, including drilling, using mounting clips, and securing with screws.

WARNING: Hand-tighten the screws evenly in a criss-cross pattern to avoid bending the speaker frame or stripping the mounting clips.

Tweeter Installation

General Wiring

First, run speaker wires from the tweeter output of the crossover (see Wiring Diagram B on page 5) to the desired tweeter mounting locations, observing the same precautions as the woofer installation. Terminate the wires with the supplied 2.8 mm male crimpable connectors.

Tweeter Fixture Installation

The dome tweeters supplied with the C3-525 system are designed for maximum mounting versatility in a component configuration. There are two primary methods for mounting:

Flush-Mount Installation

The dome tweeters integrate cleanly using a flush-mount cup. This compact mounting fixture is installed using the method illustrated in Diagram K and requires a mounting hole with a diameter of 1.875 in. (47.6 mm). At least 1.70-inch (43.2 mm) of clearance is required behind the mounting surface for the spring clips and 1-inch machine screws. In limited depth applications, you may need to cut down the machine screw length or use a shorter screw (not supplied). Hand-tighten the machine screw until the fixture is secure.

Diagram Description (Diagram K): Illustrates flush-mount tweeter installation steps: preparing the hole, inserting the fixture, connecting wires, and securing the tweeter.

Surface-Mount Installation

This application does not require cutting large holes in vehicle panels. You will only need to drill a hole for the wires and two smaller holes for the mounting screws. This is useful when mounting tweeters to a panel with insufficient clearance behind it for the tweeter's magnet structure.

Using the fixture as a template, mark screw hole locations and a center hole for the wire. Drill pilot holes for screws and a 1/4-inch (6.4 mm) hole for wires. Use the supplied #6 x 1.00-inch sheet metal screws to secure the fixture. Route the tweeter's positive (+) and negative (-) wire leads through the 1/4-inch center hole. The tweeter is secured to the fixture using a simple bayonet (twist and lock) mechanism. Align the indented locking slots on the tweeter body with the tabs visible on the inside walls of the fixture. The tweeter should slide into place easily and can then be locked by pushing down and giving it a small clockwise turn.

Diagram Description (Diagram L): Illustrates surface-mount tweeter installation steps: marking holes, drilling, securing the fixture, routing wires, and attaching the tweeter via twist-lock.

Limited Warranty and Service Information

Limited Warranty - Automotive Speaker Systems (USA)

JL AUDIO warrants these speakers (and crossover networks, where applicable) to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase. This warranty is not transferable and applies only to the original purchaser from an authorized JL AUDIO dealer.

JL AUDIO will, at its discretion, repair or replace defective products with new or remanufactured product at no charge. Damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, product modification or neglect, failure to follow installation instructions, unauthorized repair attempts, or misrepresentations by the seller is not covered. This warranty does not cover incidental or consequential damages, nor the cost of removing or reinstalling the unit(s). Cosmetic damage due to accident or normal wear and tear is also not covered.

Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to the period of the express warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, so these exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Service Information

All warranty returns should be sent to JL AUDIO freight prepaid through an authorized JL AUDIO dealer and must be accompanied by proof of purchase (a copy of the original sales receipt). Direct returns from consumers or non-authorized dealers will be refused unless specifically authorized by JL AUDIO with a valid return authorization number. Warranty expiration on products returned without proof of purchase will be determined from the manufacturing date code.

Return only defective components. If one speaker fails in a system, return only that speaker component, not the entire system. Non-defective items received will be returned freight-collect. The customer is responsible for shipping charges and insurance when sending the product to JL AUDIO. Freight damage on returns is not covered under warranty.

Contact Information

For Service Information in the U.S.A., please call JL Audio Customer Service: (954) 443-1100 (9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Eastern Time Zone).

Mailing Address (Do not send product for repair here):
JL Audio, Inc
10369 North Commerce Pkwy.
Miramar, FL 33025

International Warranties

Products purchased outside the United States of America are covered only by that country's distributor and not by JL Audio, Inc.