My amplifier doesn’t turn on | JL Audio G4500 guide

Appendix D: TROUBLESHOOTING

“How do I properly set the input sensitivity on my amplifier”

Please refer to Appendix A (page 14) to set the input sensitivity for maximum, low-distortion output.

“My amplifier doesn’t turn on”

Check the fuse, not just visually, but with a continuity meter. It is possible for a fuse to have poor internal connections that cannot be found by visual inspection. It is best to take the fuse out of the holder for testing. If no problem is found with the fuse, inspect the fuse-holder.

Check the integrity of the connections made to each of the “+12VDC”, “Ground”, and “Remote” terminals. Ensure that no wire insulation is pinched by the terminal set screw and that each connection is tight.

Check to make sure there is +12V at the “Remote” connection of the amplifier. In some cases, the turn-on lead from the source unit is insufficient to turn on multiple devices and the use of a relay is required. To test for this problem, jump the “+12VDC” wire to the “Remote” terminal to see if the amplifier turns on. If this does not work, proceed to the next step.

“I get a distorted / attenuated sound coming out of the speaker(s)”

Check the speaker wires for a possible short, either between the positive and negative leads or between either speaker lead and the vehicle’s chassis ground. If a short is present, you will experience distorted and/or attenuated output. The “Protect” light will illuminate in this situation. It may be helpful to disconnect the speaker wires from the amplifier and use a different set of wires connected to a test speaker.

Check the nominal load impedance to verify that each channel of the amplifier is driving a load equal to or greater than 2 ohms in stereo mode (4 ohms bridged).

Check the input signal and input signal cables to make sure signal is present at the “Amplifier Inputs” and the cables are not pinched or loose. It may be helpful to try a different set of cables and/or a different signal source to be sure.

“My amplifier’s output fluctuates when I tap on it or hit a bump”

Check the connections to the amplifier. Make sure that the insulation for all wires has been stripped back far enough to allow a good contact area inside the terminal block.

Check the input connectors to ensure that they all are making good contact with the input jacks on the amplifier.

“My amplifier shuts off once in a while, usually at higher volumes”

Check your voltage source and grounding point. The power supply of the G4500 will operate with charging system voltages down to 10V. Shutdown problems at higher volume levels can occur when the charging system voltage drops below 10V. These dips can be of very short duration making them extremely difficult to detect with a common DC voltmeter. To ensure proper voltage, inspect all wiring and termination points. It may also be necessary to upgrade the ground wire connecting the battery to the vehicle’s chassis and the power wire connecting the alternator to the battery. Many vehicles employ small (10 AWG - 6 AWG) wire to ground the battery to the vehicle’s chassis and to connect the alternator to the battery. To prevent voltage drops, these wires should be upgraded to 4 AWG when installing amplifier systems with main fuse ratings above 60A. Grounding problems are the leading cause of misdiagnosed amplifier “failures.”

“My amplifier turns on, but there is no output”

Check the input signal using an AC voltmeter to measure the voltage from the source unit while an appropriate test tone is played through the source unit (disconnect the input cables from the amplifier prior to this test). The frequency used should be in the range that is to be amplified by the amplifier (example: 50 Hz for a sub bass application or 1 kHz for a full range / high-pass application). A steady, sufficient voltage (between 0.2 and 8.0-volts) should be present at the output of the signal cables.

Check the output of the amplifier. Using the procedure explained in the previous check item (after plugging the input cables back into the amplifier) test for output at the speaker outputs of the amplifier. Unless you enjoy test tones at high levels, it is a good idea to remove the speaker wires from the amplifier while doing this. Turn the volume up approximately half way. 5V or more should be measured at the speaker outputs. This output level can vary greatly between amplifiers but it should not be in the millivolt range with the source unit at half volume. If you are reading sufficient voltage, check your speaker connections as explained below.

Check to ensure that the speaker wires are making a good connection with the metal inside the terminal block. The speaker wire connectors are designed to accept up to 8 AWG wire. Make sure to strip the wire to allow for a sufficient connection with the metal inside the terminal block.

JL AUDIO G4500

G4500 specifications

JL Audio's G4500 is a powerful and versatile amplifier designed for audio enthusiasts who seek high-quality sound and performance in a compact format. This amplifier is part of JL Audio's GD Series, which emphasizes efficiency and durability while delivering exceptional audio fidelity. The G4500 is particularly popular among car audio enthusiasts, as it offers the ability to drive a range of speaker setups with ease.

One of the standout features of the G4500 is its Class D amplification technology. This technology allows the amplifier to produce a significant amount of power while maintaining high levels of efficiency. The Class D design results in less heat generation and reduces the need for extensive cooling, allowing for a compact form factor without compromising performance. With a power output of 75 watts RMS per channel at 4 ohms and up to 150 watts RMS at 2 ohms, the G4500 is well-equipped to power various speaker configurations effectively.

Additionally, the G4500 incorporates advanced signal processing features that enhance its versatility. The amplifier includes a built-in high-pass and low-pass filter, allowing users to tailor the sound to their specific preferences and installation requirements. The crossover settings can be adjusted to ensure that the right frequencies reach each speaker, resulting in a more balanced audio experience.

Another notable characteristic of the G4500 is its robust construction. The amplifier features a durable chassis designed to withstand the rigors of automotive environments, including vibrations and temperature variations. This durability ensures long-lasting performance, making the G4500 a reliable choice for both casual listeners and serious audiophiles.

Moreover, the G4500 includes multiple input options, including high-level inputs for connecting directly to factory-installed radios or low-level RCA inputs for aftermarket head units. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide variety of audio systems, simplifying integration into existing setups.

In summary, the JL Audio G4500 is a compact yet powerful amplifier that offers a range of advanced features designed to enhance audio quality and performance. With its efficient Class D architecture, adjustable crossover capabilities, durable construction, and versatile input options, the G4500 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience, whether in a car, marine environment, or even for home audio systems.