Sub-12 - Subwoofer KLIPSCH - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Powered Subwoofer
Brand	Klipsch
Model	Sub-12
Driver Size	12 inches (305 mm)
Amplifier Power (RMS)	260 Watts
Amplifier Power (Peak)	500 Watts
Frequency Response	22 Hz - 120 Hz ± 3 dB
Power Requirements	120 V / 60 Hz (US) or 230 V / 50 Hz (EU)
Dimensions (H x W x D)	20 x 16.5 x 16.5 inches (508 x 419 x 419 mm)
Weight	48 lbs (21.8 kg)
Inputs	Line-level (RCA) and Speaker-level (binding posts)
Controls	Volume, Crossover (40-120 Hz), Phase (0/180°), Auto-On/Off
Enclosure Type	Bass-Reflex (ported)
Finish	Black Woodgrain Vinyl
Protection	Over-current, over-voltage, thermal
Placement	Floor-standing, near a wall or corner for optimal performance
Cleaning Instructions	Wipe with dry cloth; do not use liquid cleaners
Spare Parts Availability	Contact Klipsch customer service or authorized dealers

Frequently Asked Questions - Sub-12 KLIPSCH

What is the recommended placement for the Klipsch Sub-12?

Place the subwoofer on the floor near a wall or corner for optimal bass response. Avoid placing it in a closed cabinet. Experiment with placement to minimize standing waves.

How do I connect the Sub-12 to my receiver?

Use a single RCA cable from the subwoofer output on your receiver to the LFE input on the Sub-12. Alternatively, use speaker-level inputs if your receiver lacks a subwoofer output. Ensure the receiver's subwoofer mode is enabled.

Why is my Sub-12 not producing sound?

Check that the power cord is securely connected and the subwoofer is powered on. Verify the receiver's subwoofer output is active. Ensure the volume and crossover dials are not set too low. If using speaker-level inputs, check speaker wire connections.

What is the auto-on feature and how does it work?

The auto-on feature automatically powers the subwoofer when it detects an audio signal. It conserves power when not in use. If the subwoofer does not turn on automatically, ensure the signal is strong enough or set the switch to 'ON' to keep it constantly powered.

What should I set the crossover frequency to?

Set the crossover to match your main speakers' low-frequency capability. A typical setting is 80 Hz for home theater. Adjust between 40-120 Hz to blend seamlessly. If using LFE input, set the crossover to the highest setting (120 Hz) and let the receiver handle the crossover.

How do I adjust the phase control?

The phase control (0/180°) helps align the subwoofer's output with your main speakers for smoother bass. Listen to a bass-heavy track and listen for the loudest, most impactful bass. Typically, 0° works best if the subwoofer is near the mains, and 180° if placed behind or far away.

Can I use the Sub-12 with a 2-channel stereo system?

Yes, use the speaker-level inputs. Connect the amplifier's speaker outputs to the Sub-12's speaker-level inputs, then from the Sub-12's outputs to your main speakers. Ensure correct polarity (+ to +, - to -).

What maintenance does the Sub-12 require?

Regularly dust the cabinet with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use any liquids or solvents. Check connections periodically. No other maintenance is necessary.

Is the Sub-12 compatible with 230V power?

Yes, but ensure the voltage selector (if present) is set to 230V or use the appropriate power cord. Check the rear panel for voltage rating. Using incorrect voltage may damage the subwoofer.

What is the warranty period for the Klipsch Sub-12?

Klipsch typically offers a 2-year warranty for subwoofers from the date of purchase. Contact Klipsch or your retailer for specific terms and registration.

USER MANUAL Sub-12 KLIPSCH

Top-down view of a black electronic device with a circular logo on the front panel (no visible text or symbols)

SUBWOOFER

OWNER'S MANUAL

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. READ these instructions.
2. KEEP these instructions.
3. HEED all warnings.
4. FOLLOW all instructions.
5. DO NOT use this apparatus near water.

6. CLEAN ONLY with dry cloth.

7. DO NOT block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

8. DO NOT install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. DO NOT defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wider blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. PROTECT the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where it exits from the apparatus.

11. ONLY USE attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12. USE only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

13. UNPLUG this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14. REFER all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

This symbol indicates that there are important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.

This symbol indicates that dangerous voltage constituting a risk of electric shock is present within this unit.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The product must not be exposed to dripping and splashing and no object filled with fluids – such as a vase of flowers – should be placed on the product.

WARNING: Voltages in this equipment are hazardous to life. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the users authority to operate this device.

POSITIONING YOUR SYNERGY SERIES SUBWOOFER

Kipsch powered subwoofers are designed to reproduce deep bass and deliver the impact that makes your movies and music come alive. For optimum performance, place your subwoofer in a corner of the room on the same wall as your front channel speakers, (refer to Figures 1 and 2). Please note that room placement can have a dramatic effect upon the performance of your powered subwoofer. Corner placement, as suggested above, will increase the amount of bass output, while placing the subwoofer along the middle of a wall, or out in the room will decrease the amount of bass output. Experiment with a number of different placement options and control settings to find the one that best suits your particular room and taste. When choosing your subwoofer's location, keep in mind that you will need to connect the subwoofer's built-in amplifier to an AC power outlet.

CONNECTIONS AND CONTROLS

Optimal Connections – Klipsch Synergy Powered subwoofer's can be connected to the subwoofer output of your electronics via the RCA jack inputs ("LINE IN") on the subwoofer's rear panel (refer to Figure 3). This can be in place of the conventional speaker wire connections ("HIGH LEVEL IN"). For more information on the controls mentioned in this manual and on bass management, see your dealer or visit www.klipsch.com.

Conventional Speaker Wire Connections – Using 16-gauge or larger speaker wire, connect the RED "positive" (+) terminal of your amplifier's LEFT channel to the RED (+) terminal of your subwoofer's LEFT channel input ("HIGH LEVEL IN"). Connect the BLACK "negative" (-) terminal of your amplifier's LEFT channel to the BLACK "negative" (-) terminal of your subwoofer's LEFT channel input ("HIGH LEVEL IN"). Repeat this procedure for connecting your amplifier's RIGHT channel to your subwoofer's RIGHT channel input (refer to Figure 4). Take care to make sure that no bare wires from any of the connections touch any other terminals as this could cause a short and damage your equipment.

"HIGH LEVEL OUT" – This passes the "HIGH LEVEL IN" signal out to your left and right speakers with frequencies below 100Hz removed.

"LINE IV/LFE" – This input is filtered by the built-in "LOW PASS" (LP) crossover and is designed as a general purpose input for the subwoofer. It accepts the LFE signal output of your digital surround electronics.

"LOW PASS" (LP) CROSSOVER – The crossover allows the user to select the upper-frequency cutoff of the subwoofer. The frequency is selectable from 40-120Hz. Frequencies above the set level are filtered out, allowing you to blend the subwoofer's output with that of your main speakers.

"GAIN" – This control serves as an overall volume control for the subwoofer. It is used to match the output level of the subwoofer to the main speakers.

"PHASE" 0/180 - This control is used to acoustically match the subwoofer's output to your main speakers. Select the position, either 0^ or 180^ , in which your subwoofer has more output at the listening position.

"POWER" ON/OFF—In the "ON" position, the subwoofer will remain "on" constantly or can turn "on" and "off" automatically when the "AUTO/ON" circuit is engaged (see "AUTO/ON"). In the "OFF" position, the subwoofer will remain "off" until the switch is manually turned back to the "ON" position.

AUTO/ON – When the main "POWER" ON/OFF switch is in the "OFF" position, this switch has no effect on the subwoofer. When the main "POWER ON/OFF" switch is in the "ON" position, this switch allows the auto circuit to be engaged. When this switch is in the "AUTO" position, the subwoofer will automatically turn "on" when it senses a signal. It will automatically turn "off" after 20 minutes with no signal. When this switch is in the "ON" position, the subwoofer will remain "on" as long as the "POWER" ON/OFF switch is in the "ON" position.

LED indicator—Klipsch Synergy powered subwoofers have an LED on the bottom of the front panel that indicate the status of the built-in amplifier. The LED will light red when the amplifier is in standby mode and blue when the amplifier is on and receiving a signal.

CARE AND CLEANING OF YOUR POWERED SUBWOOFER

Your subwoofer has a durable vinyl finish that should only require dry dusting or cleaning with a dry cloth. Avoid the use of abrasive or solvent-based cleaners and harsh detergents. The brush attachment of your vacuum should remove any dust from your subwoofer enclosure.

WARRANTY — U.S. AND CANADA ONLY

The Warranty below is valid only for sales to consumers in the United States or Canada. KLIPSCH, L.L.C. ("KLIPSCH") warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship (subject to the terms set forth below) for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase. During the Warranty period, KLIPSCH will repair or replace (at KLIPSCH's option) this product or any defective parts (excluding electronics and amplifiers). For products that have electronics or amplifiers, the Warranty on those parts is for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase.

To obtain Warranty service, please contact the KLIPSCH authorized dealer from which you purchased this product. Proof of purchase in the form of a bill of sale or receipted invoice, which is evidence that this product is within the Warranty period, must be presented or included to obtain Warranty service.

This Warranty is invalid if (a) the factory-applied serial number has been altered or removed from this product or (b) this product was not purchased from a KLIPSCH authorized dealer. You may call

1-800-KLIPSCH to confirm that you have an unaltered serial number and/or you purchased from a KLIPSCH authorized dealer.

This Warranty is only valid for the original purchaser and will automatically terminate prior to expiration if this product is sold or otherwise transferred to another party.

This Warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or damage due to misuse, abuse, negligence, acts of God, accident, commercial use or modification of, or to any part of, the product. This Warranty does not cover damage due to improper operation, maintenance or installation, or attempted repair by anyone other than KLIPSCH or a KLIPSCH dealer which is authorized to do KLIPSCH warranty work. Any unauthorized repairs will void this Warranty. This Warranty does not cover product sold AS IS or WITH ALL FAULTS.

REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENTS AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY ARE THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER. KLIPSCH SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THIS PRODUCT. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY LAW, THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PRACTICAL PURPOSE.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or implied warranties so the above exclusions may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state.

WARRANTY OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA

The Warranty on this product if it is sold to a consumer outside of the United States or Canada shall comply with applicable law and shall be the sole responsibility of the distributor that supplied this product. To obtain any applicable warranty service, please contact the dealer from which you purchased this product, or the distributor that supplied this product.

FIGURE 1
STEREO PLACEMENT

graph TD
    A["Sub"] --> B["L"]
    B --> C["6'-15'"]
    C --> D["R"]
    D --> E["+ Optional Sub 2'-3'"]
    E --> F["S"]
    G["Sub"] --> H["Angle Inward"]
    H --> I["6'-15'"]
    I --> J["Less distance will increase bass, but worsen sound quality."]

FIGURE 2
SURROUND LCR AND REARS

graph TD
    A["Sub"] -->|X,Y,Z| B["TV"]
    B --> C["L"]
    B --> D["C"]
    B --> E["R"]
    F["Sub + Optional Sub"] --> G["X=Y=Z"]
    H["Sub + Optional Sub"] --> I["B"]
    J["Sub + Optional Sub"] --> K["Alternate rear placement"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style H fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style J fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style R fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style S fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style L fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style R fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style L fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style R fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style S fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style L fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style R fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style S fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style L fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style Y fill:#fff,stroke:#000
    style X fill:#fff,stroke:#000

FIGURE 3
LOW LEVEL CONNECTIONS

Left & Right pre-outs on

Processor/Pre-Amp/Receiver connected to Left & Right line inputs on subwoofer amplifier

FIGURE 4
HIGH LEVEL CONNECTIONS

Main speaker outputs on receiver connected to high level inputs on subwoofer amplifier (Right is shown, repeat for Left)
High level outputs on subwoofer amplifier connected to main speaker inputs (Right is shown, repeat for Left)