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JL Audio CR-1 Crossover

So, I own 4 JL Audio F-113 subs. Each of these were bought used and all have been updated at JL Audio.

I have been very happy using them in my system. The main speakers are Focal Sopra 2’s. I am using a Iso-Max Jensen transformer(s) model #SP-2SX to connect the subs to my mains and it seems to work pretty well. BTW, the Iso Max unit(s) convert speaker level to balanced (similar to the Rel subs) using Speak-On fittings.

The JL Audio solution to the high/low band pass issue was their CR-1 Electronic crossover. I always wanted to try one of these but at $3000 list I didn’t think it could improve that much over my Iso Max unit(s).

However, I was able to find a used JL Audio CR-1 electronic crossover and I have just now connected it up.

The first thing I noticed was how much very low bass I was missing. Example: Linda Ronstadt “Blue Bayou” the bass now digs into the subterranean.

I guess I need to play with it a while. but I was wonderin’ if anyone else who owns or has owned this unit can share any set ups tips and general opinions of the unit.

ozzy

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ozzy's avatar
ozzy OP
7,553 posts
 

I see that I did confuse you. Sorry. I was referring to the managed inputs for adding a Home Theater connection along with 2 channel. So, let’s see if I can correct it / or confuse more?

The managed bass inputs come from my Home Theater equipment (Oppo 205). For that input, I am using the balanced inputs. If you use the RCA input and then use the balanced outputs, then, you could get hum.

So, if all you have is RCA from your Home Theater equipment to go into the managed input on the CR-1 then use an RCA- XLR adapter and plug it into the balanced input if you are using the balanced outputs.

Better to use all XLR or all RCA connections into the CR-1

ozzy

 

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natev305
10 posts
 

ozzy thank you for clarifying - now I'm with you. Will try both and see - order the same adapters you had mentioned and an additional xlr for the F112 - appreciate the quick reply - and yes, Randy is a gem over at JL....I've enjoyed all my conversations with him getting the CR-1 set-up and my 7 yr old F112 updated/renewed. great company. 

james633
1,048 posts
 

Question for the CR-1 owners. Do you notice any added hiss when using it? I have been using the internal highpass crossover in my JL E112 subs and while they seem very transparent I get some added hiss to my system (I am assuming a high gain output). I have been thinking about trying a CR-1 to see if it better. 

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james633
1,048 posts
 

Ozzy,

 

good to hear… or not to hear lol. Not sure if I would use the damping or not of the CR-1 or not. The E112 subs have a stripped down version of what the CR-1 does. I am trying to get a handle on how much cleaner it is. The issue with passing through the E112 is I pick up a bit of the amp noise looping back in the amp. I am hoping that with the CR-1 where the subs don’t loop back in I would get less noise. It is very subtle but with 90db speakers they pick it up. As a whole the E112 crossover is transparent aside from some added hiss, well and ground loop issues but that is a story for another day.  

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