Power-Handling Limitations

The Official Brand of Live Music

Thank you for choosing a JBL GTi Series subwoofer. GTi Series subwoofers are designed to provide maximum sound output in a variety of enclosure types while maintaining the superb sound quality associated with JBL. To ensure the best subwoofer performance, we strongly recommend that installation be entrusted to a qualified professional. Although these instructions explain how to install a GTi Series subwoofer in a general sense, they don’t show the specific installation procedures that may be required for your particular vehicle. If you feel you don’t have the necessary tools or experience, don’t attempt the installation yourself; rather, ask your authorized JBL dealer about professional-installation options.

Warning: Playing loud music in an automobile can hinder your ability to hear traffic, as well as permanently damage your hearing. We recommend listening at low levels while driving. JBL accepts no liability for hearing loss, bodily injury or property damage resulting from use or misuse of this product.

Your Car and Bass Reproduction Depending on the size of the vehicle’s interior listening space, reproduced frequencies below 80Hz may be boosted by nearly 12dB per octave as frequency decreases. This effect, commonly known as transfer function or cabin gain, plays an important role in defining the in-car frequency response of your subwoofer.

It is displayed graphically, along with freespace response, on the enclosed data sheet for your GTi subwoofer.

The power-handling capacity of any subwoofer is related to the excursion limit of its suspension and its ability to dissipate heat. A speaker reaches its excursion-limited power-handling capacity when its suspension is stretched to its limit. The excursion curve shown on the Enclosure Design Sheet (included with your woofer) displays cone excursion at the input power level required to drive the woofer to maximum linear excursion (Xmax). The input power shown may

be used as instantaneous input only.

Thermal power handling is determined by the amount of heat that may be dissipated by the driver’s voice coil. The power- handling rating assigned to your GTi Series subwoofer is its thermal-power-handling rating. This rating assumes a clean (unclipped) signal. A clipped waveform has much higher average power, due to the longer duty cycle at the top and bottom of the waveform; it will heat the woofer’s voice coil faster than a clean signal and may damage the voice coil. A square wave has a 100% duty cycle and is extremely dangerous for any speaker. Audible distortion in the output of your woofer

is an indication that your amplifier may be clipping, which could damage your speakers over time.

W12GTi, W10GTi, W15GTi specifications

JBL has long been a name synonymous with high-quality audio equipment, and their GTi series of subwoofers—specifically the W15GTi, W10GTi, and W12GTi—are standout examples of their commitment to performance and innovation. Each model in this lineup is designed to deliver deep, accurate bass, making them ideal for serious audiophiles and car audio enthusiasts.

The JBL W15GTi is the largest subwoofer in the series, featuring a massive 15-inch cone. This model is engineered to handle substantial power, boasting RMS ratings up to 2,500 watts, with peak power capabilities reaching 10,000 watts. The W15GTi utilizes a fiberglass reinforced cone for enhanced rigidity and reduced distortion, combined with a large, vented pole piece that allows for better heat dissipation. This innovative design not only increases the subwoofer's longevity but also ensures that it performs optimally even during extended use.

Moving to the W12GTi, the 12-inch variant, we see a balance of size and power. It supports an RMS power handling of 1,500 watts and can peak at up to 6,000 watts. The W12GTi incorporates an advanced suspension system that includes a progressive-roll surround for improved excursion and a cast-aluminum basket that reduces unwanted resonance. This model is ideal for those who want impactful bass without excessive weight, making it easier to install in a variety of vehicles.

Finally, the W10GTi rounds out the series with its compact 10-inch size. Despite being the smallest of the trio, the W10GTi does not compromise on performance. It has an RMS rating of 1,200 watts and peak power handling up to 4,800 watts. Its lightweight design, paired with JBL’s signature low-frequency extension technology, produces a rich and dynamic bass response that enhances any audio experience. The W10GTi is particularly suited for smaller cars or for those looking to maximize space without sacrificing sound quality.

All three models feature advanced technologies such as JBL's patented Vented Spider, which provides linear movement and allows for greater excursion, and a dual voice coil configuration that enhances their versatility in different setups. Constructed with high-quality materials and precise engineering, the W15GTi, W12GTi, and W10GTi subwoofers offer unmatched audio fidelity, deep bass, and reliability, making them a popular choice for those seeking high-performance audio solutions. Whether you’re aiming for a thumping low-end experience or precise sound reproduction, JBL’s GTi series has a model tailored for your needs.