JBL Home Theater System Wiring Guide | ES30, ES90, ES25C, ES10

WIRING THE SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: Make sure all equipment is turned off before making any connections.

For speaker connections, use a high-quality speaker wire with polarity coding. The side of the wire with a ridge or other coding is usually considered positive polarity (i.e., +).

NOTE: If desired, consult your local JBL dealer about speaker wire and connection options.

SINGLE-STEREO AMPLIFIER

Speaker Wire

Figure 4. This figure shows how to connect bare wires to the terminals.

The speakers have coded terminals that accept a variety of wire connectors. The most common connection is shown in Figure 4.

To ensure proper polarity, connect each + terminal on the back of the amplifier or receiver to the respective + (red) terminal on each speaker, as shown in Figure 5. Connect the

–(black) terminals in a similar way. See the owner’s guides that were included with your amplifier, receiver and television to confirm connection procedures.

Figure 7.

DUAL-STEREO AMPLIFIER

Figure 8.

IMPORTANT: Do not reverse polarities (i.e., + to – or – to +) when making connections. Doing so will cause poor imaging and diminished bass response.

STANDARD CONNECTION

Standard

Connection

Figure 5. Wiring diagram shows polarity connections for one channel of a stereo or home theater system.

BI-WIRING

ES30, ES80, ES90, ES100

The outer connection panel and internal dividing network of the ES30, ES80, ES90 and ES100 are designed so that separate sets of speaker cables can be attached to the low-frequency transducer and midrange/high-frequency transducer portions of this dividing network. This is called bi-wiring. Bi-wiring can provide several sonic advantages and considerably more flexibility in power amplifier selection.

Figure 6.

FINAL ADJUSTMENTS

Check the speakers for playback, first by setting the system volume control to a minimum level, and then by applying power to your audio system. Play a favorite music or video segment and increase the system volume control to a comfortable level.

NOTE: You should hear balanced audio reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum. If not, check all wiring connections or consult the authorized JBL dealer from whom you purchased the system for more help.

The amount of bass you hear and the stereo-image quality will be affected by a number of different factors, including the room’s size and shape, the construction materials used to build the room, the listener’s position relative to the speakers, and the position of the speakers in the room.

Listen to a variety of music selections and note the bass level. If there is too much bass, move the speakers away from nearby walls. Conversely, if you place the speakers closer to the walls, there will be more bass output.

CARE OF YOUR SPEAKER SYSTEM

Each JBL ES Series enclosure has a finish that does not require any routine maintenance. When needed, use a soft cloth to remove any fingerprints or dust from the enclosure or grille.

NOTE: Do not use any cleaning products or polishes on the cabinet or grille.

ES10, ES20, ES100, ES30, ES80 specifications

The JBL ES20 is a compact bookshelf loudspeaker that embodies a harmonious blend of performance, design, and innovative technology, making it an ideal choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With its sleek profile and elegant finish, the ES20 seamlessly integrates into any home environment while delivering exceptional sound quality.

One of the standout features of the JBL ES20 is its advanced transducer technology. The speaker is equipped with a 5.25-inch polycellulose woofer that ensures deep, rich bass reproduction. This material is known for its excellent damping characteristics, which minimizes distortion and enhances clarity, allowing listeners to enjoy a fuller, more immersive audio experience. Complementing the woofer is a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter that provides crisp and detailed high frequencies, ensuring a balanced sound across the entire frequency spectrum.

The JBL ES20 also incorporates the company’s signature image control waveguide technology. This innovation significantly improves the speaker's dispersion characteristics, allowing for a wide soundstage and ensuring that the audio remains consistent, even when listening from different angles. This feature is particularly beneficial in larger rooms, where optimal placement can often be a challenge.

Another notable characteristic of the JBL ES20 is its impressive power handling. With a sensitivity rating of 86 dB, this speaker can comfortably handle an RMS power of 100 watts, making it a suitable partner for a wide range of amplifiers and receivers. Whether you're enjoying your favorite music, watching movies, or playing video games, the ES20 can deliver a dynamic performance that brings every detail to life.

The speaker's design is equally impressive, with a cabinet constructed from high-quality MDF that minimizes unwanted resonance. The ES20 is finished with a stylish black or walnut veneer, which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability. The speakers come with a sophisticated grille that can be easily removed, allowing users to showcase the stunning design of the speakers.

In conclusion, the JBL ES20 stands out as an exceptional bookshelf speaker, combining advanced technologies, powerful performance, and a striking design. Its ability to deliver accurate sound reproduction across a wide range of frequencies makes it an excellent choice for any audio setup, whether in a home theater or a dedicated listening room. With the JBL ES20, users can expect a listening experience that is both enjoyable and rewarding.