OPERATION
Surround Modes
When using the CS480 in a Dolby Digital or DTS home theater system,
make sure all speakers are set to “Small”. In a Dolby Pro Logic
®
home
theater system, make sure the receiver’s center channel mode is set
to “Normal.”
Some Dolby Digital-equipped receivers/processors offer different
setup options for each source or surround mode (e.g., CD-stereo,
videotape, Dolby, Pro Logic). In each case, follow your equipment’s
instructions to ensure that the subwoofer output is turned on and that
the speakers are set to “Small” in each mode.
Power On
Plug your subwoofer’s AC cord into a wall outlet. Do not use the outlets
on the back of the receiver.
Initially set the Subwoofer-Level Control
1
to the“MIN” position.
Turn on the subwoofer by pressing the Power Switch
6
on the
rear panel.
Turn on your entire audio system and start a CD or movie soundtrack
at a moderate level.
Auto On/Standby
With the Power Switch
6
in the ON position, the LED on the rear
panel
5
will remain lit in green or red to indicate the ON or STANDBY
mode of the subwoofer.
RED = STANDBY (No signal detected, Amp Off)
GREEN = ON (Signal detected, Amp On)
The subwoofer will automatically enter the Standby mode after
approximately 10 minutes when no signal is detected from your
system. The subwoofer will then power on instantly when a signal
is detected. During periods of normal use, the Power Switch
6
can be left on. You may turn off the Power Switch
6
for extended
periods of nonoperation, e.g., when you are away on vacation.
Adjust Level
Turn the Subwoofer-Level Control
1
up about halfway. If no sound
emanates from the subwoofer, check the AC-line cord and input
cables. Are the connectors on the cables making proper contact? Is
the AC plug connected to a “live” receptacle? Has the Power Switch
6
been pressed to the ON position? Once you have confirmed that
the subwoofer is active, proceed by playing a CD or DVD. Use a
selection that has ample bass information.
Set the overall volume control of the receiver/processor to a comfort-
able level. Adjust the Subwoofer-Level Control
1
until you obtain
a pleasing blend of bass. Bass response should not overpower the
room but rather be adjusted so there is a harmonious blend across
the entire musical range. Many users have a tendency to set the
subwoofer volume too loud, adhering to the belief that a subwoofer is
there to produce lots of bass. This is not entirely true. A subwoofer is
there to enhance bass, extending the response of the entire system
so the bass can be felt as well as heard. However, overall balance
must be maintained or the music will not sound natural. An experi-
enced listener will set the volume of the subwoofer so its impact on
bass response is always there but never obtrusive.
Phase Control
The Phase Switch
2
determines whether the subwoofer speaker’s
pistonlike action moves in and out with the main speakers (0˚) or
opposite the main speakers (180˚). Proper phase adjustment depends
on several variables such as room size, subwoofer placement and
listener position. Adjust the phase switch to maximize bass output at
the listening position.
Final Positioning
After correctly connecting the CS480 system and verifying that both the
subwoofer and all satellite speakers are playing, it is time to optimize
the system for your particular listening room. Earlier, you placed the
subwoofer in its general location. Finding the exact location for optimum
performance sometimes only involves moving the speakers up to a
few inches in any direction. We urge you, therefore, to experiment
with placement, if possible, until your speakers deliver their full
potential.
A Few Suggestions
We recommend that you do not operate your speakers or subwoofer with
the bass, treble and loudness controls set to full boost. This will place
undue strain on your electronics and speakers, and could damage them.
The volume control setting on your processor/preamp or receiver is not a
specific indication of the overall loudness level of the speakers. The only
important consideration is the loudness level at which the system can be
played, regardless of where the volume control is set.
Always turn down the volume control setting on your processor/preamp
or receiver when changing sources, or switching inputs to AM or FM
operation. Excessively loud transients (clicks or popping sounds) can
damage the satellite speakers and possibly the subwoofer.
Maintenance and Service
The satellite and subwoofer enclosures may be cleaned using a soft cloth
to remove fingerprints or to wipe off dust.
All wiring connections should be inspected and cleaned or remade peri-
odically. The frequency of maintenance depends on the metals involved
in the connections, atmospheric conditions and other factors, but once
per year is the minimum.
In the event that your system ever needs service, contact your local JBL
dealer or distributor, or visit www.jbl.com for a service center near you.
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