Choosing an Enclosure JBL GT4 Series

Thank you for purchasing a new JBL GT4 Series subwoofer. Subwoofer installation requires woodworking skills and some experience disassembling and reassembling automotive interiors. If you lack the tools or necessary skills, have your subwoofer installed by an authorized JBL dealer.

Warning: Playing loud music in an automobile can permanently damage your hearing as well as hin- der your ability to hear traffic. 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.

GT4 Series subwoofers are opti- mized to perform best in small, sealed, vented and prefabricated bandpass enclosures. While infinite- baffle mounting of GT4 Series subs is possible, power handling will be greatly compromised because there’s no enclosed volume of air to prevent the speaker’s cone from moving past its limit. For this reason, we do not recommend infinite-baffle mounting for GT4 Series sub- woofers.

You should choose the enclosure you will use based on the type of music you listen to, how much amplifier power you will use for the subwoofer and how much space inside the vehicle you can devote to a subwoofer enclosure.

Because a sealed enclosure provides the most control over the woofer’s movement, a woofer mounted in a sealed enclosure will handle more power than a woofer mounted in another enclosure type. Sealed enclosures provide more accurate sonic reproduction than other enclosure types, so they are well suited to all types of music. Sealed-enclosure construction

is straightforward and there are many prefabricated sealed enclosures available. An optimum sealed enclosure is always smaller than other types of enclosures optimized for a particular speaker, so they require the smallest amount of space inside the vehicle.

Vented enclosures provide better efficiency in the 40Hz – 50Hz range but this efficiency comes at the expense of sound in the lowest octave (below 40Hz) and at the expense of some control and power handling. If you are using a small amplifier, a vented box will provide more bass output from less power. Vented enclosures are also well suited to a variety of music types. Because vented enclosures require the volume of the enclosure and the size of the port to have a specific relationship with the characteristics of the woofer, the enclosure must be built exactly to the specifications provided. While there are some prefabricated vented boxes available, matching a prefabricated box to a particular woofer is difficult. If you wish to use a vented enclosure, we strongly recommend having your authorized JBL dealer

build it or verify that your design is correct if you wish to build it yourself. An optimum vented enclosure is always larger than the optimum sealed box for the same woofer and will require more space inside the vehicle.

Bandpass enclosures often provide the most output available from any amplifier and subwoofer combination at the expense of sonic accuracy. If sheer SPL (sound- pressure level) is what you desire most, choose a bandpass enclosure. Bandpass-enclosure design is very tricky and the aid of a computer and enclosure design software is necessary. If you are an experienced installer or have some woodworking experience, you may wish to build the enclosure described in the enclosure design sheet included with this woofer. Fortunately, there are many prefabricated bandpass boxes available and they are all optimized to extract the most output possible from any woofer. Bandpass enclosures can be quite large and may require a lot of space inside your vehicle.

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JBL GT4-12, GT4-15, GT4-10 owner manual Choosing an Enclosure JBL GT4 Series
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GT4-10, GT4, GT4-15, GT4-12 specifications

JBL, a renowned name in the world of audio equipment, offers a range of high-performance subwoofers designed to deliver deep, powerful bass for audio enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. Among their impressive line-up are the JBL GT4-12, GT4-15, GT4, and GT4-10 subwoofers. Each model boasts unique features and technologies, making them suitable for various listening preferences and environments.

The JBL GT4-12 is a 12-inch subwoofer that excels in producing rich bass tones with minimal distortion. It features a robust polypropylene cone, which provides durability and decreases unwanted resonance, ensuring that the bass remains tight and controlled. The subwoofer is designed with a high-temperature voice coil, which enhances its ability to handle high power levels without overheating. Additionally, the GT4-12 incorporates a strong rubber surround, allowing for greater cone movement and a more dynamic sound experience.

Next in the lineup is the JBL GT4-15, a 15-inch subwoofer that takes bass performance to another level. With its larger cone area, the GT4-15 generates deeper bass and a higher sound pressure level. This model is also engineered with a high-quality polycarbonate structure and a powerful magnet assembly, contributing to its excellent sound reproduction capabilities. The GT4-15 is perfect for those who seek that earth-shaking low-end response, making it ideal for both car audio systems and home theater setups.

The JBL GT4 series includes the GT4 model, which is recognized for its all-around performance. It provides a well-balanced sound profile, making it versatile for various genres of music. The GT4 features a sturdy construction and an efficient design, ensuring that it can deliver powerful bass without sacrificing clarity. Its lightweight design makes it easy to install and integrate into different audio systems.

Lastly, the JBL GT4-10 is a compact 10-inch subwoofer that offers a great solution for those with limited space. Despite its smaller size, the GT4-10 doesn't compromise on performance. It features advanced damping technologies that help reduce distortion, allowing for cleaner sound reproduction. This subwoofer is ideal for users looking for a powerful bass experience in tighter spaces, such as smaller vehicles or home audio systems.

In conclusion, the JBL GT4 series, including the GT4-12, GT4-15, GT4, and GT4-10, provides audio enthusiasts with a variety of subwoofer options that cater to different power requirements and space constraints. With advanced technologies and a focus on delivering high-quality sound, JBL continues to uphold its reputation for excellence in audio performance. Whether used for automotive applications or home theater setups, the GT4 subwoofers deliver the deep, impactful bass that many listeners crave.
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