XL-WB8 - Loudspeaker PowerBass - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Single Subwoofer Slot Port Bass System
Brand	PowerBass
Model	XL-WB8
Speaker Size	8 inches
Impedance	4 ohms
Frequency Response	30Hz - 250Hz
Sensitivity	89 dB (1W/1M)
Power Handling (RMS)	200 Watts
Peak Power Handling	400 Watts
Voice Coil Diameter	2.0 inches
Motor Structure Magnet Weight	116 oz
Enclosure Material	1/2" MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
Enclosure Finish	RFG aviation grade vinyl covering
Port Type	Slot Port
Enclosure Tuning Frequency	30 Hz
Surround Material	U-Turn High Roll Santoprene
Cone Material	Proprietary 4-layer non-pressed paper with DDC coating
Terminal Type	Chrome Push Input Terminals (spring loaded, accepts up to 8 ga wire)
Recommended Amplifier Power	200W RMS at 4 ohms
Crossover Setting (Low Pass)	80Hz - 90Hz
Break-in Period	40 hours at 1/3 volume
Warranty	1 year parts and labor (3 years if installed by authorized dealer)
Safety Warning	Risk of hearing loss above 100 dB; secure mounting required
Installation	Professional installation recommended; allow 3/4" clearance in front of cone

Frequently Asked Questions - XL-WB8 PowerBass

What is the recommended amplifier power for the XL-WB8?

The XL-WB8 is designed to handle up to 200 watts RMS (continuous) and 400 watts peak. It requires an outboard amplifier optimized at 4 ohms. Choose an amplifier with power rating equal or slightly higher than 200W RMS.

What is the impedance of this subwoofer?

The XL-WB8 has a single 4-ohm voice coil. Ensure your amplifier is stable at 4 ohms to drive this system.

How should I set the crossover frequency?

If your amplifier has an active crossover, set it between 80Hz and 90Hz for low pass filtering. If equipped with a subsonic filter, set it to 25Hz or higher. Adjust by listening to music.

Does the enclosure need a break-in period?

Yes, a break-in period of at least 40 hours (about 2 weeks) at no more than 1/3 maximum volume is recommended. This allows the cone and spider to loosen up for better performance.

How can I ensure proper polarity?

Connect the positive wire (+) to the red terminal and negative wire (-) to the black terminal. If bass output is weak, reverse the connection on the terminal cup to correct phase issues.

What type of enclosure is this?

This is a Slot Port Bass System enclosure constructed from 1/2" MDF with a stylish RFG aviation grade vinyl covering. The slot port design increases efficiency at low frequencies.

Can I mount the enclosure in a trunk?

Yes, typical locations include trunks and rear cargo areas. For best results, point the woofer toward the front of the vehicle if mounted far back, or toward the rear if closer to the back seat. Ensure at least 3 inches clearance around the slot port.

What is the tuning frequency of this enclosure?

The enclosure is computer optimized and tuned to 30Hz for tight and accurate bass response.

How do I clean the enclosure?

Use a damp cloth to wipe the vinyl surface. Avoid strong cleaners that may discolor the vinyl. Never apply water or cleaner directly to the woofer cone.

What is the warranty coverage?

PowerBass offers a 1-year limited warranty on parts and labor, extended to 3 years if installed by an Authorized PowerBass Xtreme Dealer. It covers defects in material and workmanship. Return requires an RA# and original receipt.

USER MANUAL XL-WB8 PowerBass

powerbass® X T R E M E

Black rectangular electronic device with a red circular speaker and 'powerbase' logo on the front face (no readable text beyond branding)

XL-WB8

Single Subwoofer Slot Port Bass System

Application Guide

Please read through this manual to familiarize yourself with your new speaker. Should your PowerBass Xtreme Woofer ever require service, you will need to have the original dated receipt.

powerbass® X T R E M E

Thank you and Congratulations

Congratulations on your purchase of Powerbass Xtreme speakers. You now own a speaker of uncompromising design and engineering from a factory that truly believes in the relentless pursuit of perfection. Incorporating the highest quality parts and state-of-the-art materials, these speakers display the ultimate balance between high fidelity, performance and long-lasting reliability.

At PowerBass USA, Inc. we are confident you will have many years of outstanding enjoyment from this great SPEAKER investment. For maximum performance we recommend that you have your new PowerBass Xtreme product installed by an Authorized PowerBass Autosound Dealer.

To learn more about PowerBass, please visit us on the World Wide Web at http://www.powerbassusa.com

Δ Warning Δ

Continuous exposure to sound pressure levels in excess of 100 dB can cause permanent hearing loss. PowerBass Autosound Speakers are capable of producing sound pressure levels well over 170 dB. Please observe all local sound ordinances while listening to your PowerBass Autosound system. PowerBass USA, Inc. accepts no liability for hearing loss, bodily injury, or property damage due to the result of use or misuse of this product.

POWERBASS XTREME LOADED ENCLOSURE FEATURES

Heavy-duty Box Design: The enclosure is constructed from 1/2" MDF panels that have been glued, braced and sealed. Each box is finished in a stylish RFG aviation grade vinyl covering.

Slot Port Bass System: Utilizing a Slot Port design offers increased efficiency at low frequencies.

Proprietary 4-layer, Non-pressed Paper, DDC Finish Cone: The premium grade cones on these subwoofers are blend of papers and wood pulps, and coated in DDC to protect the cone and eliminate distortion. This results in an extremely stiff cone that is resistant to environmental elements while remaining exceptionally stable even under the stress of high sound pressure levels.

U-Turn High Roll Santoprene Surround: This high roll surround ensures a long and linear cone travel throughout the entire excursion range resulting in higher SPL. The non-standard "U" design also gives the woofer more surface area for maximum bass output.

Chrome Push Input Terminals: These high strength compression loaded speaker terminals ensure maximum current and power transfer.

Vented BASV Voice Coil Former: The specially designed resin coated high temperature voice coil measures a full 2-inches in diameter to ensure high power handling and precise linear excursion while maximizing thermal heat dissipation.

Computer Optimized Acoustic Chamber: Perfectly optimized for the car environment. This system has been tuned to 30Hz for tight and accurate bass response.

Santoprene® is a registered trademark of ExxonMobil Chemical Co.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR "XL" SERIES SPEAKER SYSTEM

(Due to Constant Improvements, Specifications and Parameters are subject to change without notice.)

Model Size System	Impedance	Frequency Response	Sensitivity 1W/1M	Motor Structure	Voice Coil Dia.	Power RMS/ Peak
XL-WB8 Single 8" 4-ohm	30Hz-250Hz 89dB	116 oz. 2.0" 200W/400W

UNPACKING THE ENCLOSURE

Every attempt has been made to transport your new PowerBass Subwoofer system safely. Carefully unpack the enclosure and inspect it thoroughly for any damage that may have occurred during shipping. Notify your local PowerBass dealer immediately should you notice any damage prior to installing the unit. Be sure to keep the carton and packing material until your system is operational. The original boxes will do the best job of protecting your speaker system if they need to be transported.

INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE

Installation of PowerBass Xtreme Speakers requires experience with a variety of mechanical and electrical procedures. This manual only provides general installation and operating instructions. If you have any reservations about your installation skills or lack the proper tools, please contact your local PowerBass Xtreme dealer for assistance.

ENCLOSURE PLACEMENT TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Your PowerBass Slot Port Subwoofer system accurately reproduces the lowest portion of the audible frequency range, which is generally considered to be non-directional. As such, the placement within the vehicle is not as critical to achieve good sound reproduction as with full range systems. Typical locations include sedan and hatchback trunks and rear cargo areas of vans, mini-vans and utility vehicles.

The following placement recommendations and installation tips are the result of many hours of development and experimentation. These examples are provided to you as a guide line. Please feel free to experiment yourself as you may find that other placements can provide you with superior results.

• Make sure all moving parts and factory electrical wires are out of your way and will not interfere after installation.
• Leave a little slack in the wire to prevent pulling or stretching, this is even more important if the wires will be run under or through the factory interior.
• Use cable ties and wire clamps to prevent the wires from getting caught or shorted.
• We do not recommend placing or installing loaded enclosures where they might be subjected to moisture.
• Correct subwoofer polarity must be observed. The polarity positive side is marked by a (+) sign. Subwoofers wired out of phase will produce little bass.
• Speaker wires should be electrically and physically isolated from the vehicle and routed away from any factory wiring that carries high currents or noise (ie, ABS brake systems and engine computer signals).
• Use speaker wire large enough to carry the full power of your amplifier. 14-gauge or larger should be adequate. (Speaker wire not included)

Your PowerBass Bass Slot Port Subwoofer system needs to be installed some place where it can operate efficiently and not endanger the occupants of the vehicle.

The location and orientation of your enclosure will affect the quality and quantity of the bass. The port (vent) opening cannot be obstructed. At some frequencies most of the bass will come out of the port tube. Therefore we recommend you leave at least 3-inches (7.62cm) between the slot port opening and interior surfaces such as side panels, seats and doors.

If the enclosure is to be mounted all the way in the back of the vehicle, it works best to point the woofer toward the front of the vehicle. Conversely, if the enclosure is going to be mounted closer to the back seat, pointing the woofer toward the rear of the vehicle will give you the best results. Even when the enclosure is placed inside a car trunk with no opening to the passenger compartment, the Slot Port design will produce strong and full bass.

NOTE: Allow at least 3/4 inch (19mm) clearance in front of the woofer cone to accommodate speaker excursion while playing music. Any obstruction of cone movement will damage the woofer.

WARNING: Permanent mounting is not only the safest installation, but usually produces the best sound quality. This custom enclosure is heavy and has a smooth surface finish, which may slide around during aggressive driving, sudden stops or road vibration. To avoid vehicle damage or personal injury please ensure that the enclosure is securely mounted to a surface with adequate strength and rigidity to support it.

WIRING AND CONNECTIONS

The PowerBass Slot Port subwoofer system consists of a single 4-ohm voice coil woofer. Check to see that your amplifier is optimized to drive this load.

A single compression terminal cup provides a quick and easy connection from your bass amplifier to your Slot Port system. The spring loaded metal terminals can accommodate up to 8ga wire.

The compression terminal input cup is located on the side of the enclosure (Fig 1). For a bare wire connection, strip 1/2 inch (12.7mm) of insulation from each of the two conductors of your speaker wire (not included) to expose bare metal (Fig 2). Carefully twist each of the conductors to eliminate any frayed ends. Push open both terminals, line up the holes, and insert the wires from your amplifier as follows: Positive wire (+) to the Red terminal, Negative wire (-) to the Black terminal. Be careful not to insert the insulated part of the wire into the hole as this will not give you a good connection.

Diagram of a black cable with a 1/2” gap labeled, showing cross-section (no text or symbols beyond label)

SOUND CHECK

RECOMMENDED POWER

The XL-WB8 is designed to handle up to 200 watts RMS (continuous) and 400 watts maximum (peak) of input power. Therefore an outboard amplifier optimized at 4-ohms will be necessary to drive this system. You will want to use an amplifier powerful enough to provide listening comfort. Generally speaking, an amplifier with the same or slightly higher power rating than the RMS power handling should be selected.

CROSSOVER SETTINGS

The XL-WB8 is designed to reproduce low (bass) frequencies only. It does not contain a low pass filter, therefore a crossover network is required for proper operation. If your amplifier includes an electronic (active) crossover, it should be set between 80Hz and 90Hz. Optimum adjustment can be achieved after listening to your favorite music and varying the crossover frequency.

If your amplifier is equipped with a Subsonic Filter it should be set to 25Hz or higher.

BREAK IN PERIOD

To get the most from your woofer we recommend a "break-in" period of at least 40 hours (typically 2 weeks) at no more than 1/3 of maximum volume. During this time the cone and spider assembly will gradually break in resulting in greater performance and more listening enjoyment.

CAUTION: Damage to the woofers can occur when an amplifier, regardless of its wattage, is made to play at higher listening levels than its power can clearly produce (usually beyond the "1 to 2 o'clock" position on the volume control). This results in very high levels of audible distortion. Contrary to popular belief, a speaker is more likely to be damaged by trying to get too much volume from a low-powered amp than from a high-powered amp.

NOTE: Lack of bass output is usually caused by the subwoofer being out of phase with reference to the rest of the system. In this case reversing the speaker connection from positive to negative on the terminal cup will correct the problem.

ENCLOSURE DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

NOTE: Allow at least 3/4 inch (19mm) clearance in front of the woofer cone to accommodate speaker excursion while playing music. Any obstruction of cone movement will damage the woofer.

CARE AND CLEANING

The enclosure is constructed of the same non-resonant material used for premium quality home audio speakers, but covered in vinyl instead of veneer. A damp cloth is best to wipe down any dirt on its surface. Avoid using strong cleaners that may discolor the vinyl wrap. Never apply water or cleaner to the woofer cones.

WARRANTY NOTES

Should a warranty issue arise with our complete subwoofer enclosure PowerBass will replace the defective woofers only. Do not send the entire enclosure, unless the enclosure is defective itself. PowerBass does not warranty the cosmetics of the enclosure once installed in the vehicle.

Product Disposal – Certain international, national and/or local laws and/or regulations may apply regarding the disposal of this product. For further detailed information, please contact the retailer where you purchased this product or the PowerBass Importer/Distributor in your country.

POWERBASS XTREME WOOFER LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY

PowerBass USA, Inc. offers limited warranty on PowerBass products under normal use on the following terms:

PowerBass Xtreme Speakers are to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year. The warranty is extended to three (3) years for parts and labor, if an Authorized Power-Bass Xtreme Dealer completes the installation.

This warranty applies only to PowerBass products sold to consumers by Authorized PowerBass Dealers in the United States of America. Products purchased by consumers from a PowerBass dealer in another country are covered only by that country's Distributor and not by PowerBass USA.

This warranty covers only the original purchaser of PowerBass product. In order to receive service, the purchaser must provide PowerBass with a valid purchase receipt from an authorized reseller stating the consumer name, dealer, product and date of purchase.

Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced (with a product deemed to be equivalent) at PowerBass's discretion and will not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. PowerBass will not warranty this product under the following situations:

• Speakers received with bent frames or water damage
• Abuse such as holes in the cone, surround or ripped spider
• Voice coil damage due to amplifier clipping or distortion
• Product that has not been installed according to this owners manual

Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are limited in duration to the period of the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow limitations on the length of an implied warranty, so this limitation may not apply. No person is authorized to assume for PowerBass any other liability in connection with the sale of this product.

Please call [phone] for PowerBass Customer Service. You must obtain an RA# (Return Authorization Number) to return any product to PowerBass. The RA number must be prominently marked on the outside of the shipping carton or the delivery will be refused. Please pack your return carefully; we are not responsible for items damaged in shipping. Return the defective product along with a copy of the original dated retail sales receipt, plus \$12.00 for handling and diagnostic evaluation to:

13936 Mountain Avenue, Chino, CA 91710

Residents of HI, AK and US territories will be charged for return shipping. All inquires regarding service and warranty should be sent to the above address.

PowerBass Xtreme (PBX) – A division of PowerBass USA, Inc.

13936 Mountain Avenue – Chino, CA 91710

Tel. [phone] – Fax [phone]

www.powerbassusa.com