Owner’s Manual

An Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a JL  Audio W7 subwoofer driver. The W7 In addition to the enclosure recommendations, we also provide
embodies JL Audio’s commitment to pushing the envelope of speaker recommended amplifier settings for JL Audio amplifiers used with
technology, with eight patented technologies, a design patent and a W7’s. Some of this information is also applicable with other brands of
completely unique set of component parts. Each W7 model has been amplifiers (like crossover points and slopes), some is not (like the voltage
meticulously engineered to reproduce sub-bass with extreme fidelity levels specified for input sensitivity settings). You will notice that our
at any volume level, provided it is installed and tuned properly. Please recommended settings do not include any bass EQ boost... this is because
review the information in this document carefully so as to maximize your W7’s rarely require any equalization to produce smooth frequency
enjoyment of the W7’s capabilities. response. If you have an equalizer in your system (or one is included in
Two enclosure recommendations are listed for each model, your head unit or amplifier), defeat all bands below 125 Hz before dialing
one sealed and one ported. The sealed enclosure design will, in your new system settings. Please turn off all sound processing that
in most cases, give you the best overall sound quality and take up the would affect the subwoofers (loudness circuits for example).
least space in your vehicle. The ported enclosure design will deliver For optimum sub-bass performance, the amplifier input sensitivity
additional output over the sealed enclosure (about 3 - 4 dB more) must be adjusted to avoid excessive distortion (clipping) of the
and will also maintain excellent sound quality, but it will require amplifier output. With W7 subwoofers, a clipped amplifier output will
significantly more space to install. The recommended ported manifest itself audibly as a low-level “mechanical” sound coming from the
enclosure is not designed for peaky “competition SPL” performance, speakers. Proper input sensitivity setting will avoid this problem. Overly
it is designed for music listening. It will be very loud and sound extremely high input sensitivity settings result in no additional clean output but will
good when set up properly. result in poor sound quality and reduced speaker reliability.
Please consult the input sensitivity setting information on page 14 of this book.

Recommended Continuous (RMS) Power Range for One Subwoofer Driver:

125W 250W 500W 1000W 2000W 4000W

GREEN (minimum): YELLOW (OPTIMUM): RED (MAXIMUM): Black (WARRANTY VOID):

From a reliability standpoint, this zone This zone represents the best balance In this zone, low-distortion output and We do not recommend operating
represents a very comfortable operating between long-term reliability, high long-term reliability will be compromised woofers at this level of power. In this
power range for each driver. This level output and low distortion performance. (especially by an aggressive user). Slightly zone, there is a very high probability that
of power will not stress the woofer but In this zone, you will be taking full more SPL will be gained by pushing the the driver will fail due to excessive heat
will not extract all of its performance advantage of the woofer's optimum, power into this zone, but typically not and/or mechanical stress.
potential, either. low-distortion performance range more than 2dB, compared to the yellow Subwoofer drivers operated at
Use of less than the minimum power without undue risk of failure. zone. The closer you are to the black these levels of power are NOT
level will not damage the woofer, but may zone, the higher the likelihood of driver covered under warranty.
result in unsatisfactory performance. failure. Operate with caution.

When designing systems with W7 drivers, it is very important to achieve a good power match between the subwoofer amplifier and the subwoofer driver's capabilities. The power levels listed in the above
chart represent continuous (RMS) amplifier power per woofer and assume that the user will regularly make full use of that power without drastically overdriving (clipping) the amplifier(s). Make sure you
factor system impedance and the total number of subwoofers into your calculations. Adhering to these power recommendations will result in systems that are both reliable and enjoyable.

2
 echnologies
W7 T

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3
 W7 Mounting Guide

Please review the mounting procedures thoroughly before attempting to remove the
speaker from its shipping baffle. The W7 mounts like no other speaker and care must be
taken to follow these instructions precisely. 2e

2c

1
Step 1: Your Tools
2a 2b
When you remove the W7 from
its shipping carton, it is attached
to an MDF baffle board. Make 2f
sure you keep this baffle board 2d
and all the packing material
in the unlikely event that the W7 Correct Wrong
ever needs to be shipped back to
JL Audio for service. Step 2: Remove Clamp-Ring
Gently insert the tip of the large flat-head screwdriver between the shiny aluminum clamp-ring
Two tools are required to install a W7: and the foam surround (picture 2a). Be careful not to push the screwdriver too far down or it
a large flat blade screwdriver and an will wedge behind the hidden O-Ring (picture 2b). Gently twist the screwdriver to “pop” the
electric screwdriver with a #2 Phillips- clamp-ring off of the O-Ring and frame (picture 2c). This should require little effort... if you are
head bit. encountering high resistance, pull the screwdriver up a bit to make sure it is not wedged behind
the O-Ring. Once you have released the tip of the clamp-ring, a gentle push with your thumb
in the direction of the speaker circumference (picture 2d) will separate the clamp-ring fully Wrong
(picture 2f). Do not pull up on the ring until it is completely removed (picture 2g). 2g

Correct

4c

Wrong
4b
3a
Step 3: Remove O-Ring
Once the clamp-ring is removed, the 4d Wrong
steel O-Ring is exposed. Gently lift this
O-Ring up and off the speaker with
your fingertips and set it aside.

4a
4e
Step 4: Remove Screws
Once the O-Ring is out of the way, the surround is completely
free of the speaker frame (no glue is used to secure it). Lift the surround
up and fold it back inside the speaker frame (picture 4a). This exposes the
mounting screws (picture 4b). The surround should be folded back and in
towards the center of the speaker (picture 4c). Do not pull it up (picture 4d)
or invert it (picture 4e). While holding the surround back with two fingers
as shown, back the first screw out using your electric screwdriver
(picture 4f, 4g). Repeat this process eleven more times (there are
twelve screws on a W7) until you have separated the speaker
3b from the shipping baffle-board. Before you panic, be aware
that the surround and cone materials are rugged and will 4f
not be damaged if you follow the procedures shown. Only
careless acts like picking the speaker up by the surround or
creasing it by force will cause permanent damage.
4g
4
Step 5: Ready to Install
You are now ready to install the
W7 into its enclosure. The parts are
shown below. Step 6: Connect the speaker wires and
place the W7 into the enclosure
Connect the positive wire to the red terminal and the negative wire to
the black terminal of the W7 (picture 6a). The 13W7 (not shown) has dual
6a voice coils and must be wired with its coils in series or in parallel. Once
the speaker is wired, gently lower it into the enclosure (picture 6b). This is
difficult on a vertical mounting surface (because of the speaker’s
weight) so you should enlist the help of a second person. If you
need a better grip (or are afraid of smashing your fingers)
you can grasp the inside of the speaker’s mounting flange
(remember, the surround moves out of the way). This tip
is particularly useful with the 13W7.

6b

5 Step 7: Screw it in (12 times)

Line up the screw holes of the frame
with the holes that you have pre-
drilled in your enclosure (you did
pre-drill the holes, right?). The W7
should be attached with heavy
screws such as the ones supplied with
the speaker. This will necessitate pre-
drilling. The use of inferior hardware
(i.e. drywall screws) may lead to
disastrous consequences, so don’t
do it. While holding the surround
7a back with two fingers (picture 7a),
screw the speaker into the enclosure
(picture 7b). Once all twelve screws
7b are in place (you did use all twelve,
right?), place the surround back over
the outside of the speaker frame
(picture 7c).

8a

Step 8: Attach O-Ring

Next, take the steel O-Ring that you
removed in step 3, and place it over
7c the outside of the surround. Push it
down evenly (do not seat one side
first) to make sure it seats the lower
lip of the surround down to the
frame (pictures 8a, 8b).

9e
9a
8b
Be sure that the beveled edge of
the clamp-ring is “pointing” towards the front of the
speaker. The clamp-ring is only designed to work in
this orientation.

“click”
9b
Step 9: Attach Clamp-Ring
9d 9f
Place the seam of the clamp-ring where it will be
least visible in the installation (usually at the bottom 9c
of the speaker). Start one end of the clamp-ring by pressing it

That’s it!
in firmly (pictures 9a, 9b). Then work your way around from that point
around the speaker, pushing the clamp-ring inward and in the direction
of the circumference of the frame (pictures 9c, 9d). If you have achieved a
tight fit all around, the seam will be small when you reach the starting point
again (pictures 9e, 9f). Check the entire circumference for a tight fit just
to be sure.
You’ve just installed a W7!
5
 13W7-D1.5
Free Air Resonance (Fs): 23.5 Hz
Electrical “Q” (Qes): 0.476
Mechanical “Q” (Qms): 7.517
Total Speaker “Q” (Qts): 0.448
Equivalent Compliance (Vas): 3.68 cu. ft. (104.3 ltrs)
One-Way, Linear Excursion (Xmax)*: 1.25 in. (32 mm)
Thermal Power Handling (Pt): 1500 Watts Continuous
Reference Efficiency (no): 0.269 %
Efficiency (SPL @ 1W/1m): 86.3 dB
DC Resistance (Re): 2.41Ω
Effective Piston Area (Sd): 107.35 sq. in. (0.0693 sq. m)
Nominal Impedance (Znom): Dual 1.5Ω

* Xmax specifications are derived via one-way voice coil overhang

method with no correction factors applied.
**For parallel-wired voice coils, divide “Re” by 4.
All other specifications remain the same.

Recommended Continuous (RMS) Power Range for One Subwoofer Driver:

500W 750W 1000W 1500W 2000W 4000W

Amplifier Recommendation: 1000/1v2

Bass EQ:
Generally not necessary in W7 applications (we recommend defeating it by
JL Audio 1000/1v2: switching the “Bass EQ” switch to “Off”). May be used with Remote Bass
These settings are intended Control to provide some user controllable broad bass boost. When used in this
as a “baseline” for tuning manner, set “Q” to “1.1”, set “Center Freq.” to “45” Hz, “Boost” is defeated by
your system. Depending connection of Remote Bass Control.
on your vehicle and your
preferences, some variation in Input Sensitivity Controls:
the crossover and bass control Proper adjustment of these controls is critical! Dual Mono Speaker
settings may be necessary Infrasonic Filter: For virtually all aftermarket head units, Output Connections:
for optimum performance. Turn “Off” for Sealed Enclosure. set “Input Voltage” to “Low”. Connect wire directly to “+”
Turn “On” for Ported Enclosure and See “Input Sensitivity Setting Guide” and “–” “Subwoofer Output”
set the knob to “25” Hz. on pg. 14 for precise setting instructions. connections and to the W7.

Remote Bass Port: Amp Low-Pass Filter: Amplifier Input: Output Polarity:
Permits connection of an Set “Mode/Slope” switch to “24dB”. Connect RCA-type Carefully listen to the sub-bass to
= position of knob
optional remote bass boost Set “Filter Freq. (Hz)” knob to “85”. cables from the head mid-bass transition with music that
controller (RBC-1), giving you Lower settings are likely to result in a unit (or processor) to has strong mid-bass content. Select
= position of switch control over the boost of the poor transition between the upper these two jacks. the switch position which gives the
parametric EQ from the front response of the W7 and the lower Use both jacks smoothest, most natural mid-bass
= switch with two possible positions
of the vehicle. The RBC-1 response of the mid-bass speakers. (with a Y-adapter response. If using multiple 1000/1’s
= setting will vary (see sidebar) controller is sold separately. if necessary). on multiple subwoofers, make sure
this switch is set to the same position
on all amplifiers.

6
Driver Specifications
Grille Clearance: 2.7 in. (69 mm) from the bottom of the mounting Mounting Hardware: Twelve #12 x 1.75" long clear, zinc-plated steel
flange to the lowest inside surface of the grille. Phillips pan-head sheet metal screws (included) or twelve #12-28 long
steel Phillips pan-head machine screws with #12-28 T-Nuts, each at least
Displacement: 0.21 cu. ft. (5.9 ltrs) 1/2-inch (12.5 mm) longer than the thickness of the mounting baffle
(not included).
Net Weight: 52 lbs. (23.6 kg)
Unpacking/Mounting: Please refer to the “How to: Mount a W7
Subwoofer ” on pages 4 & 5 for detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Bolt Hole
Circle
Mounting 12.7 in.
Hole (323 mm)
Diameter 12 Holes Mounting
11.9 in. Depth
(302 mm) 10.5 in.
(267 mm)

Magnet
Diameter
8.38 in.
(213 mm) Overall
Diameter Overall
14 in. Depth
(356 mm) 12 in.
(305 mm)

Enclosure Specifications
Net volumes given below do not include the air volume displaced by
the speaker (Driver Displacement). This value must be added to the SAFETY NOTICE!
net volume along with the displacement of any braces and/or ports (if It is absolutely essential that the completed subwoofer enclosure is mounted
applicable) to arrive at a gross internal volume. Air inside a port is not part firmly to the vehicle with heavy steel bolts (1/2 inch diameter) and large steel
of the effective net volume. Calculate ports as solid, not hollow objects. washers on both sides of the bolts. This will reduce the likelihood of occupant
injury in the event of a collision or sudden deceleration.
The dimensions given for the enclosure examples below take all applicable
displacements into consideration.

External Depth External Depth Slot Length

16.5 in. 16.5 in. 25.375 in.
(419 mm) (419 mm) (645 mm)
Slot Width
2.0 in.
(51 mm)

Extension Length
7.875 in.
(200 mm)
External Height External Height Slot Height
17.25 in. 17.25 in. 15.75 in.
(438 mm) (438 mm) (400 mm)

Slot Width
2.0 in.
(51 mm)
External Width External Width
17.0 in. 25.125 in.
(432mm) (638 mm)

SEALED ENCLOSURE: PORTED ENCLOSURE:
Recommended Net Volume: 1.875 cu. ft. (53.1 ltrs.) Recommended Net Volume: 2.375 cu. ft. (67.3 ltrs.)
Fc: 40.8 Hz F3: 36.3 Hz Qtc: 0.806 Recommended Port Tuning: 30 Hz
Front Baffle Thickness: 1 in. (25 mm) Port Type: “Slot” ports are recommended. See information above.
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm) The port recommendations listed above are derived through actual
tests and measurements (not computer simulations).
Front Baffle Thickness: 1 in. (25 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm)

7
 12W7-3
Free Air Resonance (Fs): 27.2 Hz
Electrical “Q” (Qes): 0.514
Mechanical “Q” (Qms): 7.807
Total Speaker “Q” (Qts): 0.482
Equivalent Compliance (Vas): 2.33 cu. ft. (66.0 ltrs)
One-Way, Linear Excursion (Xmax)*: 1.15 in. (29 mm)
Thermal Power Handling (Pt): 1000 Watts Continuous
Reference Efficiency (no): 0.249 %
Efficiency (SPL @ 1W/1m): 86.2 dB
DC Resistance (Re): 2.47Ω
Effective Piston Area (Sd): 84 sq. in. (0.0542 sq. m)
Nominal Impedance (Znom): 3Ω
* Xmax specifications are derived via one-way voice coil overhang method with
no correction factors applied.

Recommended Continuous (RMS) Power Range for One Subwoofer Driver:

250W 500W 750W 1000W 2000W 4000W

Amplifier Recommendation: 1000/1v2 (pictured), HD750/1,

500/1v2 or G-MAX
Bass EQ:
Generally not necessary in W7 applications (we recommend defeating it by
JL Audio 1000/1v2: switching the “Bass EQ” switch to “Off”). May be used with Remote Bass
These settings are intended Control to provide some user controllable broad bass boost. When used in this
as a “baseline” for tuning your manner, set “Q” to “1.1”, set “Center Freq.” to “45” Hz, “Boost” is defeated by
system. Depending on your connection of Remote Bass Control.
vehicle and your preferences,
some variation in the crossover Input Sensitivity Controls:
and bass control settings may Proper adjustment of these controls is critical! Dual Mono Speaker
be necessary for optimum Infrasonic Filter: For virtually all aftermarket head units, Output Connections:
performance. (See settings Turn “Off” for Sealed Enclosure. set “Input Voltage” to “Low”. Connect wire directly to “+”
on page 10 for 500/1.) Turn “On” for Ported Enclosure and See “Input Sensitivity Setting Guide” and “–” “Subwoofer Output”
set the knob to “25” Hz. on pg. 14 for precise setting instructions. connections and to the W7.

Remote Bass Port: Amp Low-Pass Filter: Amplifier Input: Output Polarity:
Permits connection of an Set “Mode/Slope” switch to “24dB”. Connect RCA-type Carefully listen to the sub-bass to
= position of knob
optional remote bass boost Set “Filter Freq. (Hz)” knob to “85”. cables from the head mid-bass transition with music that
controller (RBC-1), giving you Lower settings are likely to result in a unit (or processor) to has strong mid-bass content. Select
= position of switch control over the boost of the poor transition between the upper these two jacks. the switch position which gives the
parametric EQ from the front response of the W7 and the lower Use both jacks smoothest, most natural mid-bass
= switch with two possible positions
of the vehicle. The RBC-1 response of the mid-bass speakers. (with a Y-adapter response. If using multiple 1000/1’s
= setting will vary (see sidebar) controller is sold separately. if necessary). on multiple subwoofers, make sure
this switch is set to the same position
on all amplifiers.

8
Driver Specifications
Grille Clearance: 2.6 in. (66 mm) from the bottom of the mounting Mounting Hardware: Twelve #10 x 1.75" long clear, zinc-plated steel
flange to the lowest inside surface of the grille. Phillips pan-head sheet metal screws (included) or twelve #10-32 long
steel Phillips pan-head machine screws with #10-32 T-Nuts, each at least
Displacement: 0.14 cu. ft. (4.0 ltrs) 1/2-inch (12.5 mm) longer than the thickness of the mounting baffle
(not included).
Net Weight: 45 lbs. (20.4 kg)
Unpacking/Mounting: Please refer to the “How to: Mount a W7
Subwoofer ” on pages 4 & 5 for detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Bolt Hole
Mounting Circle
Hole 11.27 in.
Diameter (286 mm)
12 Holes Mounting
10.5 in. Depth
(267 mm) 9.5 in.
(241 mm)
Magnet
Diameter
7.5 in.
(191 mm) Overall
Overall
Diameter
Depth
12.5 in.
11.25 in.
(318 mm)
(286 mm)

Enclosure Specifications
Net volumes given below do not include the air volume displaced by
the speaker (Driver Displacement). This value must be added to the SAFETY NOTICE!
net volume along with the displacement of any braces and/or ports (if It is absolutely essential that the completed subwoofer enclosure is mounted
applicable) to arrive at a gross internal volume. Air inside a port is not part firmly to the vehicle with heavy steel bolts (1/2 inch diameter) and large steel
of the effective net volume. Calculate ports as solid, not hollow objects. washers on both sides of the bolts. This will reduce the likelihood of occupant
injury in the event of a collision or sudden deceleration.
The dimensions given for the enclosure examples below take all applicable
displacements into consideration.

External Depth External Depth Slot Length

15 in. 15.5 in. 24.0 in.
(381 mm) (394 mm) (610 mm)
Slot Width
1.75 in.
(44 mm)

Extension Length
7.625 in.
(194 mm)
External Height External Height Slot Height
15.5 in. 15.5 in. 14.0 in.
(394 mm) (394 mm) (356 mm)

Slot Width
1.75 in.
(44 mm)
External Width External Width
15.5 in. 22.5 in.
(394 mm) (572 mm)

SEALED ENCLOSURE: PORTED ENCLOSURE:
Recommended Net Volume: 1.375 cu. ft. (38.94 ltrs.) Recommended Net Volume: 1.75 cu. ft. (51.54 ltrs.)
Fc: 44.7 Hz F3: 40.4 Hz Qtc: 0.792 Recommended Port Tuning: 32 Hz
Front Baffle Thickness: 1 in. (25 mm) Port Type: “Slot” ports are recommended. See information above.
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm) The port recommendations listed above are derived through actual
tests and measurements (not computer simulations).
Front Baffle Thickness: 1 in. (25 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm)

9
 10W7-3
Free Air Resonance (Fs): 30.6 Hz
Electrical “Q” (Qes): 0.578
Mechanical “Q” (Qms): 7.647
Total Speaker “Q” (Qts): 0.537
Equivalent Compliance (Vas): 1.28 cu. ft. (36.1 ltrs)
One-Way, Linear Excursion (Xmax)*: 0.9 in. (23 mm)
Thermal Power Handling (Pt): 750 Watts Continuous
Reference Efficiency (no): 0.171 %
Efficiency (SPL @ 1W/1m): 84.3 dB
DC Resistance (Re): 2.75Ω
Effective Piston Area (Sd): 59.8 sq. in. (0.0386 sq. m)
Nominal Impedance (Znom): 3Ω
* Xmax specifications are derived via one-way voice coil overhang method with
no correction factors applied.

Recommended Continuous (RMS) Power Range for One Subwoofer Driver:

250W 500W 750W 1000W 2000W 4000W

Amplifier Recommendation: 500/1v2 (pictured), HD750/1

or G-MAX
Bass EQ:
Generally not necessary in W7 applications (we recommend defeating it by
JL Audio 500/1v2: switching the “Bass EQ” switch to “Off”). May be used with Remote Bass
These settings are intended Control to provide some user controllable broad bass boost. When used in this
as a “baseline” for tuning manner, set “Q” to “1.1”, set “Center Freq.” to “45” Hz, “Boost” is defeated by
your system. Depending connection of Remote Bass Control.
on your vehicle and your
preferences, some variation in Input Sensitivity Controls:
the crossover and bass control Proper adjustment of these controls is critical! Dual Mono Speaker
settings may be necessary Infrasonic Filter: For virtually all aftermarket head units, Output Connections:
for optimum performance. Turn “Off” for Sealed Enclosure. set “Input Voltage” to “Low”. Connect wire directly to “+”
Turn “On” for Ported Enclosure and See “Input Sensitivity Setting Guide” and “–” “Subwoofer Output”
set the knob to “25” Hz. on pg. 14 for precise setting instructions. connections and to the W7.

Remote Bass Port: Amp Low-Pass Filter: Amplifier Input:

Permits connection of an Set “Mode/Slope” switch to “24dB”. Connect RCA-type
= position of knob optional remote bass boost Set “Filter Freq. (Hz)” knob to “85”. cables from the head
controller (RBC-1), giving you Lower settings are likely to result in a unit (or processor) to
= position of switch control over the boost of the poor transition between the upper these two jacks.
= switch with two possible positions parametric EQ from the front response of the W7 and the lower Use both jacks
of the vehicle. The RBC-1 response of the mid-bass speakers. (with a Y-adapter
= setting will vary (see sidebar) controller is sold separately. if necessary).

10
Driver Specifications
Grille Clearance: 2.25 in. (57 mm) from the bottom of the mounting Mounting Hardware: Twelve #10 x 1.75" long clear, zinc-plated steel
flange to the lowest inside surface of the grille. Phillips pan-head sheet metal screws (included) or twelve #10-32 long
steel Phillips pan-head machine screws with #10-32 T-Nuts, each at
Displacement: 0.09 cu. ft. (2.5 ltrs) least 1/2-inch (12.5 mm) longer than the thickness of the mounting
baffle (not included).
Net Weight: 30 lbs. (15.8 kg)
Unpacking/Mounting: Please refer to the “How to: Mount a W7
Subwoofer ” on pages 4 & 5 for detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Mounting Bolt Hole

Hole Circle
Diameter 9.34 in. Mounting
8.74 in. (237 mm) Depth
(222 mm) 12 Holes 8 in.
Magnet
Diameter (203 mm)
6.55 in.
(166 mm) Overall Overall
Diameter Depth
10.5 in. 9.63 in.
(267 mm) (245 mm)

Enclosure Specifications
Net volumes given below do not include the air volume displaced by
the speaker (Driver Displacement). This value must be added to the SAFETY NOTICE!
net volume along with the displacement of any braces and/or ports (if It is absolutely essential that the completed subwoofer enclosure is mounted
applicable) to arrive at a gross internal volume. Air inside a port is not part firmly to the vehicle with heavy steel bolts (1/2 inch diameter) and large steel
of the effective net volume. Calculate ports as solid, not hollow objects. washers on both sides of the bolts. This will reduce the likelihood of occupant
injury in the event of a collision or sudden deceleration.
The dimensions given for the enclosure examples below take all applicable
displacements into consideration.

External Depth External Depth Slot Length

15 in. 14.5 in. 22.5 in.
(381 mm) (368 mm) (572 mm)
Slot Width
1.5 in.
(38 mm)

Extension Length
7.25 in.
External Height External Height (184 mm)
Slot Height
14 in. 13.5 in. 12.0 in.
(356 mm) (343 mm) (305 mm)

Slot Width
External Width 1.5 in.
External Width (38 mm)
15.5 in. 23.375 in.
(394 mm) (594 mm)

SEALED ENCLOSURE: PORTED ENCLOSURE:
Recommended Net Volume: 1.25 cu. ft. (35.4 ltrs.) Recommended Net Volume: 1.5 cu. ft. (42.5 ltrs.)
Fc: 44.7 Hz F3: 40.7 Hz Qtc: 0.785 Recommended Port Tuning: 32 Hz
Front Baffle Thickness: 1 in. (25 mm) Port Type: “Slot” ports are recommended. See information above.
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm) The port recommendations listed above are derived through actual
tests and measurements (not computer simulations).
Front Baffle Thickness: 1 in. (25 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm)

11
 8W7-3
Free Air Resonance (Fs): 35.2 Hz
Electrical “Q” (Qes): 0.654
Mechanical “Q” (Qms): 9.50
Total Speaker “Q” (Qts): 0.612
Equivalent Compliance (Vas): 0.61 cu. ft. (17.4 ltrs)
One-Way, Linear Excursion (Xmax)*: 0.75 in. (19 mm)
Thermal Power Handling (Pt): 500 Watts Continuous
Reference Efficiency (no): 0.112 %
Efficiency (SPL @ 1W/1m): 82.7 dB
DC Resistance (Re): 2.78Ω
Effective Piston Area (Sd): 38.0 sq. in. (0.0245 sq. m)
Nominal Impedance (Znom): 3Ω

* Xmax specifications are derived via one-way voice coil overhang method
with no correction factors applied.

Recommended Continuous (RMS) Power Range for One Subwoofer Driver:

125W 250W 500W 1000W 2000W 4000W

Amplifier Recommendation: 250/1v2 (pictured) or G1700

JL Audio 250/1v2:
These settings are intended
as a “baseline” for tuning
your system. Depending
on your vehicle and your
preferences, some variation in Input Sensitivity controls:
the crossover and bass control Proper adjustment of these controls is critical! Dual Mono Speaker
settings may be necessary For virtually all aftermarket head units, Output connections:
for optimum performance. Infrasonic filter: set “Input Voltage” to “Low”. Connect wire directly to “+”
Switch “Off” for Sealed Enclosure. See “Input Sensitivity Setting Guide” and “–” “Subwoofer Output”
Switch to “30Hz” for Ported Enclosure on pg. 14 for precise setting instructions. connections and to the W7.

Remote Bass Port: Lf Boost: Amp Low-Pass filter: Amplifier Input:

Permits connection of an Generally not necessary in Set “Mode/Slope” switch to “24dB”. Connect RCA-type cables from
optional remote bass boost W7 applications (we Set “Filter Freq. (Hz)” knob to “85”. the head unit (or processor) to
= position of knob
controller (RBC-1), giving you recommend defeating it by Lower settings are likely to result in a these two jacks. Use both jacks
= position of switch control over the EQ boost from turning the dial to “0”). poor transition between the upper (with a Y-adapter if necessary).
the front of the vehicle. The RBC-1 response of the W7 and the lower
= switch with two possible positions
controller is sold separately. response of the mid-bass speakers.
= setting will vary (see sidebar)

12
Driver Specifications
Grille Clearance: 2.3125 in. (25 mm) from the bottom of the Mounting Hardware: Twelve #8 x 1.00" long clear, zinc-plated steel
mounting flange to the lowest inside surface of the grille. Phillips pan-head sheet metal screws (included) or twelve #8-32 long
steel Phillips pan-head machine screws with #8-32 T-Nuts, each at least
Displacement: 0.06 cu. ft. (1.7 ltrs) 1/2-inch (12.5 mm) longer than the thickness of the mounting baffle
(not included).
Net Weight: 17 lbs. (7.8 kg)
Unpacking/Mounting: Please refer to the “W7 Installation: Mounting
System ” sheet for detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Mounting Bolt Hole

Hole Circle
7.39 in. Mounting
Diameter Depth
6.94 in. (188 mm)
Magnet 12 Holes 6.83 in.
(176 mm) (173 mm)
Diameter
5.79 in. Overall Overall
(147 mm) Diameter Depth
8.5 in. 8.32 in.
(216 mm) (211 mm)

Enclosure Specifications
Net volumes given below do not include the air volume displaced by
the speaker (Driver Displacement). This value must be added to the SAFETY NOTICE!
net volume along with the displacement of any braces and/or ports (if It is absolutely essential that the completed subwoofer enclosure is mounted
applicable) to arrive at a gross internal volume. Air inside a port is not part firmly to the vehicle with heavy steel bolts (1/2 inch diameter) and large steel
of the effective net volume. Calculate ports as solid, not hollow objects. washers on both sides of the bolts. This will reduce the likelihood of occupant
injury in the event of a collision or sudden deceleration.
The dimensions given for the enclosure examples below take all applicable
displacements into consideration.

External Depth External Depth Slot Length

14.0 in. 12.0 in. 26.0 in.
(356 mm) (305 mm) (572 mm)
Slot Width
1.5 in.
(38 mm)
Extension Length
13.25 in.
(337 mm)
External Height Slot Height
External Height
10.0 in. 8.5 in.
11.875 in.
(254 mm) (216 mm)
(302 mm)

Slot Width
1.5 in.
External Width (38 mm)
External Width 27.0 in.
14.0 in. (686 mm)
(356 mm)

SEALED ENCLOSURE: PORTED ENCLOSURE:
Recommended Net Volume: 0.875 cu. ft. (24.8 ltrs.) Recommended Net Volume: 1.0 cu. ft. (28.3 ltrs.)
Fc: 46.0 Hz F3: 41.3 Hz Qtc: 0.797 Recommended Port Tuning: 32 Hz
Front Baffle Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm) Port Type: “Slot” ports are recommended. See information above.
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm) The port recommendations listed above are derived through actual
tests and measurements (not computer simulations).
Front Baffle Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.75 in. (19 mm)

13
 Input Sensitivity Setting Guide
What follows is a simple method for accurately setting the
input sensitivity (commonly referred to as “gain”) of JL Audio
subwoofer amplifiers. You will need the following equipment:

• AC Voltmeter (digital display type)

• A CD with a sine-wave test tone recorded at
0dB reference level in the frequency range to be Step 6: Connect the AC voltmeter to the “Subwoofer Output”
amplified (40-50 Hz works well). of the amplifier.
Do not use attenuated test tones
(-10dB, -20dB, etc.).
Step 7: Consult “Appendix A” in your JL Audio amplifier’s
Owner’s Manual and find the correct target
output voltage for that model and the nominal
impedance of your W7 subwoofer setup.

If you are using another brand of amplifier, we

recommend that you use an oscilloscope to verify the
maximum unclipped output in the vehicle at realistic
Step 1: Disconnect the W7(s) from the amplifier vehicle supply voltages.
(It is only necessary to disconnect one wire).

Step 2: Turn “Off” all processing on the head unit and amplifier
(bass / treble, loudness, EQ, etc.)

Step 8: Increase the “Input Sensitivity” control (clockwise) until the

listed voltage is delivered. To level-match multiple subwoofer
amps, set each one to the listed voltage. If excessive voltage
is read with the control at minimum (full counter-clockwise),
Step 3: Switch “Input Voltage” to “Low” and turn the switch the “Input Voltage” to “High” and re-adjust.
“Input Sensitivity” control on the amplifier
all the way down (full counter-clockwise).

Step 9: Reduce the head unit’s volume and turn it off.

Reconnect the subwoofers to the amplifier.
Step 4: Verify that you have disconnected the subwoofers from the
amplifier. Then, set the head unit’s volume to 3/4 of full volume.

Step 5: Play a test track with a sine-wave (pure tone)

between 40-50 Hz.

14
Limited Warranty
JL AUDIO warrants this speaker to be free of defects in materials and If you need service on your JL AUDIO product:
workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the original date of purchase.
All warranty returns should be sent to JL AUDIO freight prepaid through
This warranty is not transferrable and applies only to the original purchaser an authorized JL AUDIO dealer and must be accompanied by proof of
of the product from an authorized JL AUDIO dealer. Should service be purchase (a copy of the original sales receipt). Direct returns from consumers
necessary under this warranty for any reason due to manufacturing defect or non-authorized dealers will be refused unless specifically authorized by
or malfunction, JL AUDIO will, at its discretion, repair or replace the defective JL AUDIO with a valid return authorization number. Warranty expiration on
product with new or remanufactured product at no charge. products returned without proof of purchase will be determined from the
manufacturing date code. Coverage may be invalidated as this date is previous
Damage caused by the following is not covered under warranty: accident,
to purchase date. Return only defective components. Non-defective items
misuse, abuse, product modification or neglect, failure to follow installation
received will be returned freight-collect. The customer is responsible for
instructions, unauthorized repair attempts, misrepresentations by the seller.
shipping charges and insurance in sending the product to JL AUDIO. Freight
This warranty does not cover incidental or consequential damages and does
damage on returns is not covered under warranty. Always include proof of
not cover the cost of removing or reinstalling the unit(s). Cosmetic damage
purchase (sales receipt).
due to accident or normal wear and tear is not covered under warranty.
For Service Information in the U.S.A. please call:
Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to the period of
JL Audio customer service: (954) 443-1100 during normal business hours
the express warranty as provided herein beginning with the date of the original
(Eastern Time)
purchase at retail, and no warranties, whether express or implied, shall apply to this
product thereafter. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, JL Audio, Inc
therefore these exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific 10369 North Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL 33025
legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
International Warranties:
Products purchased outside the United States of America are covered only by
that country’s distributor and not by JL Audio, Inc.
 HOME AUDIO | MOBILE AUDIO | MARINE AUDIO
“JL Audio®” and the JL Audio logo are registered trademarks
of JL  Audio, Inc. “W7”, “VRC”, “OverRoll”, “W-Cone”, “Ahead
of the Curve”, and their respective logos are trademarks of
JL Audio, Inc.
SKU#011171 • JLA-02-2008 • Printed in USA • ©2008 JL Audio, Inc.
U.S. PATENTS: #5,734,734 #5,949,898 #6,118,884 #6,229,902
#6,243,479 #6,294,959 #6,501,844 #6,496,590 #6,441,685
#5,687,247 #6,219,431 #6,625,292 #D472,891 #D480,709 Other
U.S. & Foreign patents pending. For more detailed information
please visit us online at www.jlaudio.com.
Due to our policy of continuous product development,
all specifications are subject to change without notice.

w w w . j l a u d i o . c o m
10369 North Commerce Parkway • Miramar, Florida • 33025 • USA