JBL S800 user manual Introduction, Features, THX Ultra Specifications, Multi-Channel Operation

2.0 INTRODUCTION AND FEATURES

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of this JBL Synthesis S800 power amplifier! You have purchased a product that embodies the best of what JBL has learned about the emotional power of audio reproduction in over fifty years of preeminence in the field. This amplifier has been designed and crafted to provide the user with a high level of sonic performance; special attention has been paid to minimize the number of components in the audio signal path, resulting in extremely low distortion, excellent transient response, and wide dynamic range. Synthesis products set new benchmarks in audio technology, and, when used as part of a complete JBL Synthesis System, will bring the ambience and acoustics of some of the world’s greatest concert halls and theaters into your home.

To obtain the best performance from this amplifier, please be sure to completely read this user’s manual and use the S800 only in accordance with its instructions.

Features

The JBL Synthesis S800 power amplifier features the following:

THX ® Ultra Specifications

This amplifier meets or exceeds the stringent specifications set by the Lucasfilm THX Audio division in their specifications for "Ultra"-class certification, including power handling, total harmonic distortion, frequency response, signal to noise ratio, slew rate, and crosstalk. When incorporated into a complete THX system, you will hear in your home what the director and sound engineer heard in the recording studio.

Multi-Channel Operation

The S800, a two channel amplifier that can also be operated in bridged-mode as an extraordinarily powerful single-channel amplifier (typically when used to drive a subwoofer), has been designed to integrate well into the world of multi-channel audio. When coupled with the five channels available in the S650A, or the seven channels of the S7150, they are a solid foundation on which to build a high-performance home cinema system that will astound the listener with its power and realism.

2INTRODUCTION.0 AND FEATURES

High Power Capability

The S800 provides a truly satisfying 200 watts per channel of clean audio (<0.03% THD) into eight ohm loads, and 800 watts when operated in bridged-mode into an eight ohm load, making it ideal for powering subwoofers and surround speakers, which are frequently less efficient than front speakers. Because of their power capabilities, all Synthesis amplifiers have an extremely wide dynamic range, an element critical to realistic home cinema. Sound pressure levels equal to those present at original performances are easily recreated in even the largest of home listening environments.

Auto Turn-On and Power Sequencing Circuitry When used in a JBL Synthesis System, the S800 can be turned on automatically whenever the surround processor is activated. No longer do you have to get out of that chair to turn on the various pieces of equipment in your entertainment system; just one touch on the remote control of the surround processor, and you’re a few seconds away from a truly impressive audio presentation!

Modern amplifiers produce more power per channel (and frequently have more channels) than those of the traditional two-channel stereo era. Due to the high current demands of power amplifiers at the instant of turn-on, the S800, S650A, and S7150 amplifiers and the SDEC digital equalizer are equipped with power sequencing circuits which turn on each unit in sequence, avoiding the large instantaneous current demand (and possible house circuit breaker tripping) that would occur should they all turn on at the same instant.

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