Connecting Your Subwoofer to Your Ampliﬁer

Connecting Your Subwoofer to Your Ampliﬁer

JBL GT Series subwoofers are available in three different conﬁgurations: single

4-ohm voice coil, single 8-ohm voice coil and dual 4-ohm voice coils. Depending on the ampliﬁer you are using, you may use either single- or dual-voice-coil subwoofers in singles or multiples to maximize the power available from your ampliﬁer. To achieve the maximum ampliﬁer output possible, you should design a speaker system that provides the lowest impedance that your ampliﬁer is rated to drive safely. When designing a subwoofer system, abide by the following rules:

1.Don’t mix different subwoofer or enclo- sure types in the same system (use all single-coil 4-ohm woofers, all single- coil 8-ohm woofers, or all dual-coil woofers).

2.You may connect the coils of a dual- voice-coil woofer in series, but NEVER connect separate woofers in series. Because the ampliﬁer-damping factor (the ampliﬁer’s ability to control the motion of the woofer) is expressed as a ratio of terminal impedance (the sum of speaker impedance, wire resistance and the D.C. resistance of any crossover coil connected to the woofer) to ampliﬁer-output imped- ance, connecting woofers in series reduces the damping factor of the ampliﬁer to a value less than 1. This will result in poor transient response.

3.You must use both coils of a dual- voice-coil woofer either in series or in parallel.

4.Most ampliﬁers deliver exactly the same amount of power bridged into a 4-ohm load as they do running a 2-ohm stereo load.

To design a subwoofer system that	Figure 2. Series connection
maximizes available ampliﬁer power,
keep the following rules in mind:
1. The total system impedance of
woofers in parallel = 1/(1/w1 + 1/w2 +
1/w3...) where w is the nominal imped-
ance of the woofer.

2.The total system impedance of voice coils (or woofers) in series = w1 +

w2 + w3...

The diagrams below and at right show parallel and series speaker connections.

Figure 1. Parallel connection

GT1081, GT1041, GT1041D, GT1281, GT1241D specifications

JBL, a name synonymous with high-quality audio technology, offers a diverse range of subwoofers that cater to the needs of both casual listeners and audiophiles. Among their esteemed lineup are the JBL GT1241, GT1241D, GT1281, GT1041D, and GT1041 subwoofers, each designed to deliver powerful bass and unparalleled sound quality.

The JBL GT1241 and GT1241D are 12-inch subwoofers that provide impressive performance for those seeking deep, resonant bass in their audio systems. The GT1241 features a single voice coil design, while the GT1241D offers a dual voice coil configuration, allowing for flexible wiring options to match various amplifier setups. Both models utilize JBL’s advanced polypropylene cone technology, which ensures durability and reduced distortion, enabling them to handle high power levels without compromising sound clarity.

Similarly, the JBL GT1281 stands out with its 12-inch size and enhanced features that make it ideal for users looking for robust low-end performance. It offers a high power handling of 300 watts RMS, allowing it to produce deep bass notes that fill any space. The cone is crafted for optimal rigidity and minimal flex, which contributes to accurate bass reproduction even at higher volumes.

For those who prefer a compact design without sacrificing performance, the JBL GT1041 and GT1041D are 10-inch subwoofers that excel in tight spaces. The GT1041 features a single voice coil, while the GT1041D has a dual voice coil option. Both models are engineered with JBL's innovative designs that emphasize thermal management, ensuring that even during prolonged use, the subwoofers maintain their performance integrity.

A key highlight of all these models is JBL's patented rubber surround technology, which allows for greater excursion and better sound quality. This technology helps in achieving a deeper bass response while ensuring longevity and reliability. Additionally, their built-in venting systems provide effective heat dissipation, which enhances overall performance and durability.

Overall, the JBL GT series subwoofers, including the GT1241, GT1241D, GT1281, GT1041D, and GT1041, represent a blend of quality materials and innovative technology. They cater to various user needs, from high-powered setups to space-efficient options, while delivering the signature JBL sound that enthusiasts have come to love. Whether in a car audio system or a home theater setup, these subwoofers provide the deep, impactful bass that enhances any listening experience.