JBL BassPro SL2

Thank You

Thank you for choosing the JBL BassPro SL2. This system is designed to provide high-performance low-frequency reproduction, often requiring large enclosures, amplifiers, and complex installation. For maximum performance, professional installation by a qualified technician is strongly recommended.

Warning

Playing music at high volumes in an automobile can permanently damage your hearing and hinder your ability to hear traffic. It is recommended to use low volume levels while driving. Harman International is not liable for hearing loss, bodily injury, or property damage resulting from the use or misuse of this product.

Installation

Choosing a Mounting Location

Select a location that does not interfere with cargo loading/unloading, folding rear seats, or opening/closing the trunk lid. Front or rear corners of the trunk or luggage compartment are often ideal, providing the best sonic reproduction in the 60Hz - 100Hz range due to "corner loading." Ensure the BassPro SL2 does not impede safe vehicle operation.

[Caution] Ensure mounting screws do not puncture wiring harnesses, brake or fuel lines, or the vehicle's fuel tank, as these may be located behind or under the mounting surface.

Mounting the BassPro SL2

[Important] Disconnect the vehicle's negative (-) battery terminal before beginning the installation.

Connections

Power Connections

The power connections include:

• +BAT: Connect to the vehicle's battery positive terminal using #12AWG (2.05mm²) wire, protected by a 15A fuse.
• REM: Connect to the head unit's remote turn-on output using #18AWG (0.82mm²) wire (optional for remote turn-on).
• GND: Connect to the vehicle's chassis ground (bare metal) using #12AWG (2.05mm²) wire.

Input Connections

The BassPro SL2 offers flexible input options:

• Line-Level Inputs: Connect the subwoofer output or rear L/R outputs from your source unit to the unit's L and R inputs.
• High-Level Inputs: Use the included speaker-level input harness to connect directly to the source unit's speaker outputs.

[Note] If using only Line-Level (RCA) inputs, connect the BassPro SL2's remote wire to the head unit's remote output for automatic power on/off. If using speaker-level outputs, the BassPro SL2's Audio Sense Switch will automatically turn the unit on.

Tuning the BassPro SL2

The BassPro SL2 features several controls to simplify sonic integration with your vehicle's acoustics.

Controls Overview

• Phase Switch: Reverses the phase of the subwoofer's output (0° or 180°). Adjust to achieve the most upper bass or suit your preference.
• Level Control: Adjusts the input sensitivity to balance the BassPro SL2's volume with other speakers in the system.
• Crossover Control: Adjusts the amount of upper bass and midbass. Set to achieve a smooth transition, avoiding frequency gaps.
• Bass Boost Control: Corrects for vehicle acoustic peaks or dips, typically around 40Hz. Offers adjustment from 0dB to +9dB.
• Audio Sense Switch: For High-Level inputs, set to "On" to allow the unit to turn on when it senses voltage on the speaker inputs.
• Input Load Switch: For High-Level inputs, set to "High" for lowest noise. "Low" may offer better results in some systems (e.g., with radio power faders).
• Remote Connection: Compatible with the RBC remote volume control.

Adjustment Sequence

1. Set Level control to minimum, Phase switch to "0", and Crossover/Bass Boost controls to 3 o'clock.
2. Play bass-heavy music at approximately 3/4 of your head unit's total volume output.
3. Turn the Level control clockwise until the BassPro SL2's volume balances with the rest of the system.
4. Listen for upper bass content.
5. Switch the Phase to "180" and recheck upper bass. Select the position that yields the most upper bass or suits your taste.
6. Adjust the Crossover control until only low-frequency information is heard from the subwoofer, with no vocals.
7. Adjust the Bass Boost control to your preference.

[Note] Control settings can interact; readjustment may be necessary. Consult an authorized JBL dealer for assistance.

Technical Specifications

Product Overview

The JBL BassPro SL powered woofer fits under the front seat of many vehicles, adding powerful bass to any car audio system. Its electronic crossover and flexible EQ adjustments allow tuning to your system, car acoustics, and listening preferences. The energy-efficient digital amplifier provides powerful output while staying cool, delivering great bass without taking up significant space.

Features

• Proprietary, shallow-profile woofer
• Efficient Class D amplifier
• Intelligent electronic design
• System Control (electronic crossover)
• Line- and high-level inputs
• Wired, remote level control capability

Car Audio Installation Tips

Understanding Batteries

The battery's primary role is starting the vehicle; the alternator powers electrical accessories. Batteries are a renewable power source, recharged by the alternator. Applications involving repeated deep discharge require a deep-cycle battery.

Connecting Multiple Batteries

To increase starting power or reserve capacity, batteries can be connected in parallel (positive to positive, negative to negative). This increases CCA and reserve capacity while maintaining voltage.

Suggestions for Connecting Batteries in Parallel

• Use batteries of the same age, make, and model.
• Ensure cable size is sufficient for the higher current flow.
• Protect cables from shorting.
• Clean all terminals before installation.
• Use high-quality connectors.

Battery Installation Tips

• Check the mounting surface for any objects that could damage the battery case.
• Secure the battery properly to prevent movement or vibration.
• Replace any corroded or damaged cables and connectors.
• Do not lift batteries by their terminals.
• Do not overtighten the bolts.

Fuses

Fuses are essential safety devices that interrupt circuit power when current exceeds safe levels, preventing wire overheating and potential fires. Never substitute a fuse with a higher capacity than specified for the circuit. Proper fuse installation protects components from short circuits.

Fuse Installation for Amplifiers

For a single amplifier, the fuse at the battery should match or slightly exceed the amplifier's fuse rating. For multiple amplifiers, sum their fuse ratings and install a fuse of approximately equal value. A margin of five amperes higher is generally acceptable. Separate fuse blocks are typically only needed if amplifiers lack built-in fuses.

What's in the Box

• 1 powered woofer enclosure
• 4 mounting screws
• Owner's manual