JBL Synthesis SDEC-3500 User manual

SDEC-3500
SDEC-4500
SDEC-5500
DIGITAL EQUALIZER

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION
READ THE FOLLOWING:
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
HEED ALL WARNINGS.
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
DO NOT USE THIS APPARATUS NEAR WATER.
CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.
FOR INDOOR USE ONLY.
DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT
REGISTERS, STOVES, OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING AMPLIFIERS)
THAT PRODUCE HEAT.
ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE
MANUFACTURER.
UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN
UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME.
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
wide blade or third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided
plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of
the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
Use only with the cart stand, tripod bracket, or
table specified by the manufacture, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
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.
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH: The Power switch used in this piece of
equipment DOES NOT break the connection from the mains.
MAINS DISCONNECT: The plug shall remain readily operable. For
rack-mount or installation where plug is not accessible, an all-pole mains
switch with a contact separation of at least 3 mm in each pole shall be
incorporated into the electrical installation of the rack or building.
If connected to 240V supply, a suitable CSA/UL certified power cord
shall be used for this supply.
This Equipment is intended for rack mount use only.
U.K. MAINS PLUG WARNING
A MOLDED MAINS PLUG THAT HAS BEEN CUT OFF FROM THE CORD IS UNSAFE. DISCARD THE MAINS PLUG AT A
SUITABLE DISPOSAL FACILITY.
NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT MAINS
PLUG INTO A 13 AMP POWER SOCKET.
DO NOT USE THE MAINS PLUG WITHOUT THE FUSE COVER IN PLACE. REPLACEMENT FUSE COVERS CAN BE
OBTAINED FROM YOUR LOCAL RETAILER. REPLACEMENT FUSES ARE 13 AMPS AND MUST BE ASTA APPROVED
TO BS1362.
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and the Product Specifications noted on the Declaration of
Conformity. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
this device may not cause harmful interference, and•
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.•
Operation of this unit within significant electromagnetic fields should be avoided.
use only shielded interconnecting cables.•
DECLARATION OF
CONFORMITY
Manufacturer’s Name: BSS Audio
Manufacturer’s Address: 10653 South River Front
Parkway,
Suite 300
South Jordan, Utah
84095, USA
declares that the product:
Product name: JBL Synthesis SDEC3500,
4500, 5500
Note: Product name may be suffixed by the EU.
Product option: None
conforms to the following Product Specifications:
Safety: IEC 60065 -01+Amd 1+ 2
EMC: EN 55022:2010
EN 55024:2010
FCC Part 15
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements
of the:
Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC
RoHS Directive 2011/65/EC
WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
With regard to Directive 2005/32/EC and EC
Regulation 1275/2008 of 17 December 2008,
this product is designed, produced, and classified as
Professional Audio Equipment and thus is exempt
from this Directive.
C. Rex Reed
Director, Engineering
Signal Processing
10653 South River Front Parkway,
Suite 300
South Jordan, Utah 84095, USA
Date: April 10, 2015
European Contact: Your local BSS Audio Sales and Service
Office or:
Harman Signal Processing
10653 South River Front Parkway,
Suite 300
South Jordan, Utah 84095, USA
Ph: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a separate collection system for
used electronic products in accordance with legislation that requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private households in the 25 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used electronic products free of
charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and recycling and thus prevent
potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that warn of potential hazards with electrical
products. The lightning flash with arrowpoint in an equilateral triangle means that there are dangerous voltages
present within the unit. The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indicates that it is necessary for the user
to refer to the owner’s manual.
These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the unit. Do not attempt
to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void
the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is spilled on the unit, shut it off immediately and
take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect the unit during storms to prevent damage.
The following is indicative of low altitude use; do not use
this product above 2000m.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
NOTICE FOR CUSTOMERS IF YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER CORD.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE SHALL BE CONNECTED TO A MAINS SOCKET OUTLET WITH A PROTECTIVE EARTHING
CONNECTION.
THE CORES IN THE MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE:
GREEN AND YELLOW - EARTH BLUE - NEUTRAL BROWN - LIVE
AS COLOURS OF THE CORES IN THE MAINS LEAD OF THIS APPLIANCE MAY NOT CORRESPOND WITH THE
COLOURED MARKINGS IDENTIFYING THE TERMINALS IN YOUR PLUG, PROCEED AS FOLLOWS:
THE CORE WHICH IS COLOURED GREEN AND YELLOW MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE TERMINAL IN THE PLUG•
MARKED WITH THE LETTER E, OR WITH THE EARTH SYMBOL, OR COLOURED GREEN, OR GREEN AND YELLOW.
THE CORE WHICH IS COLOURED BLUE MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE TERMINAL MARKED N OR COLOURED•
BLACK.
THE CORE WHICH IS COLOURED BROWN MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE TERMINAL MARKED L OR COLOURED•
RED.
THIS EQUIPMENT MAY REQUIRE THE USE OF A DIFFERENT LINE CORD, ATTACHMENT PLUG, OR BOTH, DEPENDING
ON THE AVAILABLE POWER SOURCE AT INSTALLATION. IF THE ATTACHMENT PLUG NEEDS TO BE CHANGED, REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL WHO SHOULD REFER TO THE TABLE BELOW. THE GREEN/YELLOW
WIRE SHALL BE CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE UNITS CHASSIS.
CONDUCTOR WIRE COLOR
Normal Alt
LLIVE BROWN BLACK
NNEUTRAL BLUE WHITE
EEARTH GND GREEN/YEL GREEN
WARNING: IF THE GROUND IS DEFEATED, CERTAIN FAULT CONDITIONS IN THE UNIT OR IN THE SYSTEM TO
WHICH IT IS CONNECTED CAN RESULT IN FULL LINE VOLTAGE BETWEEN CHASSIS AND EARTH GROUND. SEVERE
INJURY OR DEATH CAN THEN RESULT IF THE CHASSIS AND EARTH GROUND ARE TOUCHED SIMULTANEOUSLY.
WARNING:
APPARATET MÅ TILKOPLES JORDET STIKKONTAKT.•
APPARATEN SKALL ANSLUTAS TILL JORDAT UTTAG.•
LAITE ON LIITETTÄVÄ SUOJAKOSKETTIMILLA VARUSTETTUUN PISTORASIAAN.•

AVERTISSEMENT POUR VOTRE
SÉCURITÉ LIRE ATTENTIVEMENT :
LIRE CES CONSIGNES.
CONSERVER CES CONSIGNES.
RESPECTER TOUS LES AVERTISSEMENTS.
SUIVRE TOUTES LES CONSIGNES.
NE PAS UTILISER CET APPAREIL PRÈS DE L’EAU.
NETTOYER UNIQUEMENT AVEC UN CHIFFON SEC.
POUR USAGE INTÉRIEUR UNIQUEMENT.
NE PAS OBSTRUER LES OUÏES D’AÉRATION. EFFECTUER L’INSTALLATION
CONFORMÉMENT AUX INSTRUCTIONS DU FABRICANT.
NE PAS INSTALLER À PROXIMITÉ DE SOURCES DE CHALEUR TELLES QUE DES
RADIATEURS, BOUCHES D’AÉRATION, PLAQUES CHAUFFANTES OU TOUT AUTRE
APPAREIL (Y COMPRIS DES AMPLIFICATEURS) DÉGAGEANT DE LA CHALEUR.
UTILISER UNIQUEMENT LES PIÈCES/ACCESSOIRES MENTIONNÉS PAR LE
FABRICANT.
DÉBRANCHER L’APPAREIL AU COURS DES ORAGES OU EN CAS DE NON-
UTILISATION PENDANT UNE DURÉE PROLONGÉE.
Ne pas détériorer la sécurité de la fiche polarisée ou de la fiche de terre. Les
fiches polarisées sont équipées de deux bornes de largeurs différentes. Les
fiches de terre comportent deux lames et une troisième broche de mise à la
terre. La broche la plus large ou troisième broche de mise à la terre est prévue
pour votre sécurité. Si la fiche fournie ne correspond pas à votre installation
électrique, faire appel à un électricien pour remplacer la prise hors normes.
Protéger le cordon d’alimentation contre les risques de piétinement ou de
pincement, notamment au niveau des fiches, des prises de courant et du point
d’attache avec le matériel.
Utiliser uniquement le chariot, le support, le trépied ou
la table spécifié(e) par le fabricant ou vendu(e) avec
le matériel. Si vous utilisez un chariot pour déplacer
l’appareil, soyez suffisamment prudent pour éviter une
éventuelle blessure consécutive au basculement du chariot
et de sa charge.
Les réparations doivent être confiées à un technicien S.A.V. qualifié. Une
réparation est nécessaire en cas de dommage quelconque et en particulier en
cas d’endommagement du cordon d’alimentation ou de la fiche électrique,
d’infiltration liquide, d’introduction involontaire d’un objet dans l’appareil,
d’exposition de l’appareil à la pluie ou à un milieu humide, de fonctionnement
anormal ou de chute de l’appareil.
INTERRUPTEUR MARCHE/ARRÊT : l’interrupteur d’alimentation de cet
équipement NE coupe PAS la connexion secteur.
DÉBRANCHEMENT DE L’APPAREIL : la prise de courant doit rester facilement
accessible. Pour un montage en rack ou une installation avec une prise
inaccessible, un interrupteur omnipolaire à distance d’ouverture de contact d’au
moins 3 mm doit être intégré à l’installation électrique du rack ou du local.
Si le matériel est relié à une alimentation de 240 V, utiliser impérativement un
cordon d’alimentation adapté certifié CSA/UL pour ce branchement.
Cet équipement est exclusivement destiné à un montage en rack.
Les symboles illustrés ci-dessus sont des symboles acceptés internationalement qui avertissent des dangers potentiels relatifs
à l’utilisation de produits électriques. Le voyant clignotant avec une flèche dans un triangle équilatéral signifie la présence de
tensions dangereuses dans l’appareil. Le point d’exclamation dans un triangle équilatéral indique que l’utilisateur doit se
référer au manuel d’utilisation.
Ces symboles indiquent qu’il n’y a aucune pièce utilisable par l’utilisateur à l’intérieur de l’appareil. Ne pas ouvrir l’appareil.
Ne pas essayer de réparer soi-même l’appareil. Confier toute réparation à du personnel qualifié. Ouvrir la structure de
l’appareil pour quelque raison que ce soit annulera la garantie du fabricant. Ne pas mouiller l’appareil. Si du liquide est
renversé sur l’appareil, fermer immédiatement l’appareil et l’apporter chez un réparateur. Débrancher l’appareil pendant les
tempêtes afin d’éviter des dommages.
Ce qui suit est représentatif d’une utilisation à basse altitude ;
ne pas utiliser ce produit au-dessus de 2000 m.
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ
NOTICE ADRESSÉE AUX CONSOMMATEURS ÉQUIPÉS D’UN MATÉRIEL AVEC CORDON D’ALIMENTATION FOURNI.
AVERTISSEMENT : CET APPAREIL DOIT ÊTRE BRANCHÉ SUR UNE PRISE SECTEUR DOTÉE D'UNE PROTECTION PAR MISE À LA
TERRE.
LES COULEURS DES NOYAUX DANS LES FILS SECTEURS DOIVENT RESPECTER LES CODES SUIVANTS :
VERT et JAUNE - Terre BLEU - Neutre MARRON - Phase
LES COULEURS DES NOYAUX DANS LES FILS SECTEURS DE CET APPAREIL PEUVENT NE PAS CORRESPONDRE AUX
INSCRIPTIONS COLORÉES IDENTIFIANT LES TERMINAUX DANS VOTRE FICHE ; IL FAUT DONC PROCÉDER DE LA FAÇON
SUIVANTE :
LE NOYAU VERT ET JAUNE DOIT ÊTRE BRANCHÉ AU TERMINAL DE LA FICHE OÙ APPARAÎT LA LETTRE E OU LE SYMBOLE DE•
MISE À LA TERRE, OU AU TERMINAL VERT OU VERT ET JAUNE.
LE NOYAU BLEU DOIT ÊTRE BRANCHÉ AU TERMINAL MARQUÉ D’UN N OU DE COULEUR NOIRE.•
LE NOYAU MARRON DOIT ÊTRE BRANCHÉ AU TERMINAL MARQUÉ D’UN L OU DE COULEUR ROUGE.•
CE MATÉRIEL PEUT NÉCESSITER L’UTILISATION D’UN CORDON D’ALIMENTATION DIFFÉRENT ET/OU D’UNE FICHE DE
BRANCHEMENT DIFFÉRENTE SELON LA SOURCE D’ALIMENTATION DISPONIBLE À L’INSTALLATION. SI LA FICHE DE
BRANCHEMENT DOIT ÊTRE CHANGÉE, FAIRE APPEL À UN TECHNICIEN QUALIFIÉ QUI DEVRA SE RÉFÉRER AU TABLEAU CI-
DESSOUS. LE FIL VERT/JAUNE DOIT ÊTRE BRANCHÉ DIRECTEMENT AU CHÂSSIS DE L'APPAREIL.
CONNECTEURS COULEUR DU FIL
normal Alt
LPHASE MARRON NOIR
NNEUTRE BLEU BLANC
ETERRE VERT/JAU VERT
ATTENTION : UN DÉFAUT DE MISE À LA TERRE PEUT PROVOQUER CERTAINS DYSFONCTIONNEMENTS DE L'APPAREIL OU
DU SYSTÈME AUQUEL IL EST RELIÉ, POUVANT SE TRADUIRE PAR UNE TENSION COMPOSÉE ENTRE LA MASSE ET LA PRISE
DE TERRE. CELA PEUT PROVOQUER DES BLESSURES SÉRIEUSES OU FATALES SI LA MASSE ET LA PRISE DE TERRE SONT
TOUCHÉES EN MÊME TEMPS.
ATTENTION :
APPARATET MÅ TILKOPLES JORDET STIKKONTAKT.•
APPARATEN SKALL ANSLUTAS TILL JORDAT UTTAG.•
LAITE ON LIITETTÄVÄ SUOJAKOSKETTIMILLA VARUSTETTUUN PISTORASIAAN.•
AVERTISSEMENT CONCERNANT LA FICHE SECTEUR
UNE FICHE SECTEUR MOULÉE QUI A ÉTÉ COUPÉE DU CORDON EST DANGEREUSE. JETER LA FICHE SECTEUR DANS
UN CENTRE DE DÉCHETS ADAPTÉ.
VOUS NE DEVEZ EN AUCUNE CIRCONSTANCE INSÉRER UNE FICHE ENDOMMAGÉE OU
COUPÉE DANS UNE PRISE SECTEUR 13 AMP.
NE PAS UTILISER LA FICHE SECTEUR SI LE COUVERCLE DU COFFRET À FUSIBLES N’EST PAS BIEN EN PLACE.
VOUS POUVEZ VOUS PROCURER DES CAPOTS DE FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE AUPRÈS DE VOTRE DÉTAILLANT LOCAL.
LES FUSIBLES DE REMPLACEMENT SONT DE 13 A ET DOIVENT ÊTRE APPROUVÉS ASTA, BS1362.
COMPATIBILITÉ ÉLECTROMAGNÉTIQUE
Cet appareil est conforme au volet 15 des règles du FCC et aux spécifications techniques évoquées dans la
Déclaration de conformité. Son fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :
cet appareil ne doit pas causer d’interférences nuisibles et•
cet appareil doit accepter les interférences captées, y compris les interférences susceptibles de nuire à son•
fonctionnement.
L’utilisation de cet appareil à proximité de champs électromagnétiques puissants n’est pas recommandée.
utiliser exclusivement des câbles d’interconnexion blindés.•
Nom du fabricant : BSS Audio
Adresse du fabricant : 10653 South River Front
Parkway,
Suite 300
South Jordan, Utah
84095, ÉTATS-UNIS
déclare que le produit :
Nom du produit : JBL Synthesis SDEC3500,
4500, 5500
Remarque : Le nom du produit peut être suivi des
lettres UE.
Option du produit : Aucune
est conforme aux spécifications suivantes :
Sécurité : CEI/IEC 60065:2001 +Amd
1+ 2
CEM : EN 55022:2010
EN 55024:2010
Partie 15 des FCC
Informations complémentaires :
Ce produit est conforme aux exigences suivantes :
Directive sur la basse tension 2006/95/CE
Directive 2004/108/CE
Directive RoHS 2011/65/UE
Directive DEEE 2002/96/CE
Ce produit appartenant à la catégorie Matériel audio
professionnel, il n'est pas concerné par la directive
2005/32/CE ou par le règlement européen
1275/2008 du 17 décembre 2008.
C. Rex Reed
Directeur, Ingénierie
Traitement des signaux
10653 South River Front Parkway,
Suite 300
South Jordan, Utah 84095, ÉTATS-UNIS
Date : 10 avril 2015
Contact en Europe : votre revendeur BSS Audio local et le
bureau d'assistance de :
Harman Signal Processing
10653 South River Front Parkway,
Suite 300
South Jordan, Utah 84095, ÉTATS-UNIS
Tél. : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Ne pas jeter ce produit avec les ordures ménagères. Il existe un système de collecte sélective pour les produits
électroniques usagés en conformité avec les lois en vigueur en matière de traitement, de récupération et de recyclage.
Dans les 25 États membres de l’UE, en Norvège et en Suisse, les ménages peuvent envoyer leurs produits électroniques usagés sans
frais vers des centres de collecte sélective ou chez un distributeur (contre l’achat d’un nouveau produit).
Contacter les autorités locales pour connaître les procédures de traitement des déchets adaptées dans les pays non mentionnés ci-dessus.
Non seulement cette précaution vous permettra d’être sûr que votre produit est correctement traité, récupéré et recyclé, mais elle vous
évitera également de nuire involontairement à l’environnement et à la santé humaine.
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES
DÉCLARATION DE CONFORMITÉ

-2-
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-3500/SDEC-4500/SDEC-5500
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction, and Installation Considerations................................. 2
Controls and Indicators – Front Panel........................................... 3
Rear Panel Connections .............................................................. 4
Input/Output Connections
SDEC-3500............................................................................. 5
SDEC-4500............................................................................. 6
SDEC-4500 With Bi-Amplified Front Speakers....................... 7
SDEC-4500 With Full-Range Front Speakers......................... 8
SDEC-5500............................................................................. 9
Techincal Specifications ............................................................. 13
INTrODuCTION
Thank you for purchasing a JBL Synthesis SDEC Series Digital Equalizer. You now have at your
command a unique product that enables your Synthesis System to deliver the best possible
sonic performance regardless of the content being played and your room environment, whether
you are playing the latest blockbuster movie, a major sporting event or your favorite music.
This Installer's Manual gives you the information needed to connect your Digital Equalizer to the
other components in your home theater system as well as to describe its configuration, setup
and operation. Additional support information may also be found in the Support Section of
the JBL Synthesis web site at www.jblsynthesis.com. Of course, you may always contact JBL
Synthesis Customer Service at 888-691-4171.
Welcome to the Synthesis family, we wish you many years of listening pleasure!
FEATurES
Up to 512 bands of fully parametric EQ•
Built-in crossover for bi-amp outputs (SDEC-4500 and SDEC-5500 only)•
Delay adjustement for each output•
Delay adjustment for driver compensation•
Screen compensation•
Driver compensation•
Web-based Java remote for basic system setup•
Windows application for advanced system setup•
Custom configuration possible•
Four subwoofer outputs•
SDEC-4500 may array side channels up to two additional side channels (3 total) to cover•
multiple rows of seats
SDEC-5500 may array (duplicate) side channels up to one additonal pair to cover larger•
rooms
24-Bit DSP•
96kHz sample rate on all inputs and outputs•
Balanced or single-ended (unbalanced) inputs and outputs•
INSTALLATION CONSIDErATIONS
To ensure optimal performance, please pay attention to the instructions in this Manual.
Install your SDEC on a solid, flat, level surface that is dry, well-ventilated and out of direct•
sunlight.
Do not place your SDEC directly on a carpeted surface or cover any of the ventilation holes.•
Do not install your SDEC on a surface that is unstable or unable to support all four feet.•
Do not install it directly above another product, and do not put another product directly on•
top of the SDEC.
Do not expose the SDEC to high temperatures or humidity, steam, smoke or excessive•
dampness or dust.
Introduction, and Installation Considerations

-3-
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-3500/SDEC-4500/SDEC-5500 Front Panel Controls & Indicators
B INPUT/OUTPUT CARD MONITORING: Each channel has three LED indicators showing:
CLIP – Indicates clipping in the analog domain for each channel of the fitted input or output
card. The LED will light at +18.5dB.
SIGNAL – The signal LED will light for each channel of a fitted input or output card when the
signal reaches or exceeds the signal threshold of – 20dB.
SYNC/48V – This feature is currently not supported by JBL Synthesis (lights to indicate that
+ 48V “phantom” power has been activated for the relevant channel of a fitted input card or
that Digital Sync is valid).
CDATA ACTIVITY: ThedataactivityLEDasheswhentheSDECiscommunicatingwithanother
control device, either on the network or via the serial or control ports.
DNETWORK LINK: The network link LED indicates the presence of Ethernet cables. If no cables
areconnected,theLEDwillbedark.Thenetworklinkisusedforconguringandcalibratingthe
Synthesis system when using the DACS calibration.
EINFORMATION DISPLAY: The information display indicates the name/ID and IP address of
the unit.
F HOLD: Press and hold this button to cycle the LCD through its contrast range.
G LOCATE: Press this button to illuminate the Locate button on the rear panel.
FrONT PANEL CONTrOLS & INDICATOrS
B C D E F G

-4-
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-3500/SDEC-4500/SDEC-5500 Rear Panel Connections
rEAr PANEL CONNECTIONS
H POWER CORD SOCKET: Connect the power cord here and then connect to a mains output
with voltage from 85V to 270V, 50/60Hz.
ILOCATE: Press this button to illuminate the Locate button on the front and identify the device
within the London Architect software.
JRS-232: Thisconnectionforexternalcalibrationandcongurationunitisnotactiveatthistime.
K ETHERNET: This is the main connection for the proprietary system control network, and for
third-party Ethernet control. The SDEC must be connected to an Ethernet hub during the
calibration process.
L B L U - L i n k CONNECTORS: Connect these ports to other JBL Synthesis BLU-Link products to
enable BLU-Link to send and receive audio data. Please Note: When using the SDEC-4500X
or SDA Series amplifiers with BLU-Link you must connect the two units through the BLU-Link
connection, using a Cat. 5e patch cable.
M CONTROL INPUTS :The SDEC-4500P and SDEC-5500 can be configured for full-range or
bi-amp operation by using these control inputs. The SDEC-3500 does not need or use this
connection. The SDEC05500 may be configured for factory channel settings or an alternate
setting that enables 4 subwoofer outputs on the SDEC4500X analog expansion unit
N INPUT/OUTPUT CARD POSITIONS :These connectors provide the balanced and unbalanced
connections for the input/output card fitted in the four card slots in a JBL Synthesis SDEC
device. A green LED next to the slot assignment letter A, B, C or D indicates that an input
card is fitted and an amber LED when an output card is fitted. The analog connections are
balanced/unbalanced, on Phoenix/Combicon connectors. Depending on which model and
configuration you have purchased will determine which input/output card has been installed
at the factory. Please make certain that you have ordered the correct wiring kit for your
application and system configuration as designed and recommended by JBL Synthesis.
BlueLink
H I J K L M N

-5-
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-3500 Input/Output Assignments
INPuT/OuTPuT ASSIGNMENTS
SDEC-3500 ANALOG CONNECTIONS
The SDEC-3500 supports up to 7.1 input with up to 7.1 output. The input and output
assignments are described in the table below. You must make the correct connections from the
surround processor output to the amplifier input for the system to work correctly.
The correct Synthesis Interconnect kit includes all the necessary connections for using the SDEC
in the Synthesis system.
CONNECTION NOTES
Please follow the Input/Output Assignments table for correct connections.•
You will need to use the Ethernet network port on the rear panel of the unit for the final•
calibration process. You can connect the SDEC-3500 through any standard Ethernet hub.
SDEC3500 BLU LINK CHANNELS
The SDEC3500 may output digital audio via the BLU-Link output connector including 4 discrete
subwoofer channels.
SDEC-3500 INPUT/OUTPUT ASSIGNMENTS
Surround Processor to SDEC-3500 Inputs
Number Channel SDEC-3500
1 Left Front A1
2 Right Front A2
3 Center Front A3
4 Left Side A4
5 Right Side B1
6 Left Rear B2
7 Right Rear B3
8Subwoofer B4
SDEC-3500 Outputs to Ampliers
Number Channel SDEC-3500
9 Left Front C1
10 Right Front C2
11 Center C3
12 Left Side C4
13 Right Side D1
14 Left Rear D2
15 Right Rear D3
16 Subwoofer D4

-6-
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-4500 Input/Output Assignments
SDEC-4500
The SDEC-4500 is comprised of one SDEC-4500P plus either an SDEC-4500X or a combination
of SDA Series amplifiers with BLU-Link digital connection capability. The BLU-Link digital
connection carries all necessary signals on a single Cat.5e cable.
The correct Synthesis Interconnect kit includes all the necessary connections for using the SDEC
in the Synthesis system. Please contact JBL Synthesis Technical Support at 888-691-4171 (USA
only) for more information.
The SDEC-4500 is capable of processing up to 12 inputs and up to 22 outputs. Depending on
the type and number of outputs will determine which connections you should use to connect the
SDEC to the rest of your system.
CONNECTION NOTES
The SDEC-4500 can process two outputs for the front left, center and right channels to•
outputtoanamplierforabi-ampliedsystem.Therearediscreteoutputsforasingle
high-frequency horn speaker and low-frequency speakers. These outputs can only be used
with speakers designed to be used with an external crossover. Do not use the SDEC Digital
Equalizer for any speakers other than the recommended Synthesis speaker packages.
There are three pairs of outputs for side speakers. If you are only using one pair of side•
speakers, then you may leave the second or third pair of outputs with no connection. If you
are using a second or third pair of side speakers, then you should connect the pair closest
to the front speakers to Output 1, the pair in the middle of the room to Output 2, and the
pair closest to the rear speakers to Output 3. The third pair of outputs may be switched to
become the rear height pair when using the A.R.C.O.S. software.
There are up to four subwoofer outputs. You should use them in pairs so that you either•
have two or four.
When SDA Series amplifiers are used in a system with a BLU-Link connection from the•
SDP-4500P instead of the SDEC-4500X you must carefully follow the installation and
connection diagrams contained in the SDA Series amplifier’s Setup and Installation Manual.
SELECTING FULL-RANGE OR BI-AMPED CONFIGURATION
There are two ways to select between bi-amped or full-range LCR operation.
Please note: Only Method One can be done on the control ports (without a computer).
Method Two requires a computer running the appropriate configuration software.
Please contact JBL Synthesis Technical Support for more information.
METHOD ONE: WITHOUT A COMPUTER
Full Range: With the SDEC powered up and running, connect Control Input 1 to “C” (common)
on the back of the unit for full range. This is a temporary contact and should not be left in place.
Bi-Amped: With the SDEC powered up and running, connect Control Input 2 to “C” for bi-
amped. This is a temporary connection and should not be left in place.
METHOD TWO: WITH A COMPUTER
While online and in Operate mode from within London Architect™ or when using the Java
remote, select the appropriate speaker configuration as your installation requires. The software
will automatically configure the outputs correctly.

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JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-4500 Input/Output Assignments
SDEC-4500 WITH BI-AMPLIFIED FRONT SPEAKERS
This configuration requires the selection of bi-amplified operation, as noted on page 6.
Surround Processor to SDEC-4500P Inputs
Number Channel SDEC-4500P
1 Left Front A1
2 Right Front A2
3 Center Front A3
4 Left Side A4
5 Right Side B1
6 Left Rear B2
7 Right Rear B3
8Subwoofer B4
9 Left Front Height C1
10 Right Front Height C2
11 Left Rear Height C3
12 Right Rear Height C4
SDEC-4500P Outputs to Ampliers
Number Channel SDEC-4500P
13 Subwoofer 1 D1
14 Subwoofer 2 D2
15 Subwoofer 3 D3
16 Subwoofer 4 D4
SDEC-4500X Outputs to Ampliers
Number Channel SDEC-4500X
17 Left Front-Low A1
18 Left Front-Hi A2
19 Right Front-Low A3
20 Right Front-Hi A4
21 Center-Low B1
22 Center--Hi B2
23 Left Side 1 B3
24 Right Side 1 B4
25 Left Side 2 C1
26 Right Side 2 C2
27 Left Side 3/Left Rear Height C3
28 Right Side 3/Right Rear Height C4
29 Left Rear D1
30 Right Rear D2
31 Left Front Height D3
32 Right Front Height D4

-8-
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-4500 Input/Output Assignments
SDEC-4500 WITH FULL-RANGE FRONT SPEAKERS
This is the default configuration.
Surround Processor to SDEC-4500P Inputs
Number Channel SDEC-4500P
1 Left Front A1
2 Right Front A2
3 Center Front A3
4 Left Side A4
5 Right Side B1
6 Left Rear B2
7 Right Rear B3
8Subwoofer B4
9 Left Front Height C1
10 Right Front Height C2
11 Left Rear Height C3
12 Right Rear Height C4
SDEC-4500P Outputs to Ampliers
Number Channel SDEC-4500P
13 Subwoofer 1 D1
14 Subwoofer 2 D2
15 Subwoofer 3 D3
16 Subwoofer 4 D4
SDEC-4500X Outputs to Ampliers
Number Channel SDEC-4500X
17 Left Front A1
18 (Not Used) A2
19 Right Front A3
20 (Not Used) A4
21 Center B1
22 (Not Used) B2
23 Left Side 1 B3
24 Right Side 1 B4
25 Left Side 2 C1
26 Right Side 2 C2
27 Left Side 3/Left Rear Height C3
28 Right Side 3/Right Rear Height C4
29 Left Rear D1
30 Right Rear D2
31 Left Front Height D3
32 Right Front Height D4

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Input/Output AssignmentsJBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-5500
SDEC-5500
The SDEC-5500 can be used by itself with SDA amplifiers or in combination with a SDEC-
4500X. All of these products utilize the BLU-Link digital connection that carries all necessary
signals on a single CAT 5e cable.
The correct Synthesis Interconnect kit includes all the necessary connections for using the SDEC
in the Synthesis system. Please contact JBL Synthesis Technical Support at 888-691-4171 (USA
only) for more information.
CONNECTION NOTES
The SDEC-5500 can process two outputs for the front left, center and right channels to•
outputtoanamplierforabi-ampliedsystem.Therearediscreteoutputsforasingle
high-frequency horn speaker and low-frequency speakers. These outputs can only be used
with speakers designed to be used with an external crossover. Do not use the SDEC Digital
Equalizer for any speakers other than the recommended Synthesis speaker packages.
There are two pairs of outputs for side speakers. If you are only using one pair of side•
speakers, then you may leave the second pair of outputs with no connection. If you are
using a second pair of side speakers, then you should connect the pair closest to the front
speakers to Output 1 and the pair closest to the rear speakers to Output 2.
There are up to four subwoofer outputs. You should use them in pairs so that you either have•
two or four.
WhenSDASeriesampliersareusedinasystemwithaBLU-LinkconnectionfromtheSDP-•
5500 instead of the SDEC-4500X you must carefully follow the installation and connection
diagramscontainedintheSDASeriesamplier’sSetupandInstallationManual.

-10 -
Input/Output AssignmentsJBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-5500
Below shows the SDEC-5500 connections both standard and configurable when used with the
SDP-75-16
SDEC 5500 Connections
SDP-75 -16
Ouput Connections
SDEC-5500
Inputs
SDEC-5500 Outputs
IC
Cable #
SDP 75
Output # Standard Congurable Blu-Link Channel
1 1 A1 N1 Left Full Range N1 Left Low Freq 1
X N1 Left High Freq 3
2 2 A2 N2 Right Full Range N2 Right Low Freq 2
X N2 Right High Freq 4
3 3 A3 N3 Center Full Range N3 Center Low Freq 7
X N3 Center High Freq 8
4 4 A4 N4 Side Left 10
N4 Side Left 2 (array left) 23
5 5 B1 N5 Side Right 13
N5 Side Right 2 (array right) 24
6 6 B2 N6 Rear Left 16
7 7 B3 N7 Rear Right 17
8 8 B4 N8 Sub 1, 2, 3,4 25, 26, 27,28
9 9 C1 N9 11
10 10 C2 N10 14
11 11 C3 N11 12
12 12 C4 N12 15
13 13 D1 N13 5
14 14 D2 N14 6
15 15 D3 N15 18
16 16 D4 N16 19

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Input/Output AssignmentsJBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-5500
Below shows the SDEC-4500X connections for both factory and alternate settings when used
with the SDEC-5500
SDEC 4500X with SDEC 5500
(Factory Setting)
Standard IC
Cable #
Output
Connections
Left Front-Low / Full Range 1 A1
Left Front -Hi (n/c Full Range) 2 A2
Right Front -Low / Full Range 3 A3
Right Front -Hi (n/c Full Range) 4 A4
Center Front -Low /Full Range 5 B1
Center Front -Hi (n/c Full Range) 6 B2
Side Left 7 B3
Side Right 9 B4
CH9 9 C1
CH10 10 C2
CH11 (CH15) 11 C3
CH12 (CH16) 12 C4
Rear Left 13 D1
Rear Right 14 D2
CH13 15 D3
CH14 16 D4
Alt Output SDEC 4500X with SDEC 5500
(Alternate Setting)
Alternate Output IC
Cable #
Output
Connections
Left Front-Low / Full Range 1 A1
Left Front -Hi (n/c Full Range) 2 A2
Right Front -Low / Full Range 3 A3
Right Front -Hi (n/c Full Range) 4 A4
Center Front -Low /Full Range 5 B1
Center Front -Hi (n/c Full Range) 6 B2
Side Left 7 B3
Side Right 9 B4
CH9 9 C1
CH10 10 C2
Rear Left 11 C3
Rear Right 12 C4
Subwoofer 1 13 D1
Subwoofer 2 14 D2
Subwoofer 3 15 D3
Subwoofer 4 16 D4
Factory Setting: With the SDEC powered up and running, connect Control Input C11 to “C”.
This is a temporary connection and should not be left in place.
Alternate Setting: With the SDEC powered up and running, connect Control Input C12 to “C”
(common) on the back of the unit. This is a temporary contact and should not be left in place.

-12 -
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-4500/SDEC-5500
Below shows the connections on the second SDEC-5500 when used with the SDP-75-32.
The changes shown on the first SDEC-5500 and SDEC-4500x should not be applied without
first contacting JBL Synthesis Technical Support.
SDEC 5500
SDP-75-32
Ouput Connections SDEC-5500
Inputs
SDEC-5500 Outputs
IC
Cable #
SDP 75
Output # Standard Blu-Link Channel
117 A1 N17 1
218 A2 N18 2
319 A3 N19 7
420 A4 N20 10
521 B1 N21 13
622 B2 N22 16
723 B3 N23 17
824 B4 N24
Conditional
25, 26,
2 7, 28
925 C1 N25 11
10 26 C2 N26 14
11 27 C3 N27 12
12 28 C4 N28 15
13 29 D1 N29 5
14 30 D2 N30 6
15 31 D3 N31 18
16 32 D4 N32 19
* No auto EQ on the SDEC 5500 output
SDEC 4500X with 2nd SDEC 5500
(Factory Setting)
Standard IC
Cable #
Output
Connections
Left Front-Low / Full Range 1 A1
Right Front -Low / Full Range 3 A3
Center Front -Low /Full Range 5 B1
N20 7B3
N21 9B4
N25 9 C1
N26 10 C2
N27 11 C3
N28 12 C4
N29 13 D1
N30 14 D2
N31 15 D3
N32 16 D4
Input/Output Assignments

-13 -
JBL SYNTHESIS SDEC-3500/SDEC-4500/SDEC-5500 Specications
SPECIFICATIONS
INPUTS
ELECTRONICALLY BALANCED ON PHOENIX/COMBICON REMOVABLE SCREW
CONNECTORS
MIC/LINE INPUTS: NOMINAL GAIN 0DB, ELECTRONICALLY SWITCHABLE
UP TO +48DB, IN +6DB STEPS, INPUT IMPEDANCE
3.5K OHMS
MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL: +20DBU WITH 0DB INPUT GAIN (+8DBU WITH 12DB
GAIN)
CMRR: >75DB AT 1KHZ
EQUIV. INPUT NOISE (EIN): <–128DBU TYPICAL WITH 150 OHMS SOURCE
SDEC-3500: 8 INPUTS
SDEC-4500P: 12 INPUTS
SDEC-5500: 16 INPUTS
OUTPUTS:
ELECTRONICALLY BALANCED ON PHOENIX/COMBICON REMOVABLE SCREW
CONNECTORS
MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: +19DBU
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20HZ – 20KHZ (+0.5/–1DB)
THD: <0.01% (20HZ – 20KHZ, +10DBU OUTPUT)
DYNAMIC RANGE: 108DB TYPICAL (22HZ – 22KHZ UNWEIGHTED)
CROSSTALK: <–75DB
SDEC-3500: 8 OUTPUTS
SDEC-4500P: 4 OUTPUTS WITH EXPANSION TO 20 WITH
SDEC-4500X OR 22 WITH SDA AMPLIFIERS
SDEC-4500X: 16 OUTPUTS
CONTROL NETWORK
BLU-Link RJ45 CONNECTOR
MAXIMUM CABLE LENGTH: 100M/300 FT. BETWEEN DEVICE AND ETHERNET
SWITCH
ETHERNET: 2 X RJ45 CONNECTORS
MAXIMUM CABLE LENGTH: 100M/300 FT. BETWEEN DEVICE AND ETHERNET
SWITCH
PANEL LED INDICATORS: SIGNAL PRESENT (PER INPUT), CLIP (PER INPUT),
SYNC/48V (PER INPUT),
LCD, CONDUCTOR ACTIVE, NET LINK ACTIVE, DATA
ACTIVITY
MAINS VOLTAGE: 85 – 270V AC, 50/60HZ
POWER CONSUMPTION: <35VA
GENERAL:
DIMENSIONS (H X W X D): 1-3/4" X 19" X 9-1/4" (44MM X 483MM X 235MM)
WEIGHT: 6.5 LB (3KG)

HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated
8500 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, CA 91329 USA
© 2016 HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated. All rights reserved.
ThisdocumentshouldnotbeconstruedaacommitmentonthepartofHARMANInternationalIndustries,Incorporated.Allfeatures,specicationsandtheappearanceoftheproductaresubjecttochangewithoutnotice.
HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated, assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document.
Part No. 5069711_A
Printed in USA
JBL and, JBL Synthesis are registered trademarks
of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.