JL Audio MX500/4: sealed 4-channel amplifier, 500 W
The MX500/4 is the sealed 4-channel amplifier, 500 W in the JL Audio MX series: rugged, sealed amplifiers made for installations where moisture cannot be kept out entirely, on boats and powersports vehicles. It delivers 70 W RMS per channel at 4 ohms and 125 W RMS per channel at 2 ohms; bridged it reaches 250 W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms (figures with a 14.4 V supply).
It is one of the two full-range stereo models of the series, with four channels that can be bridged in pairs.
Key features
- 4 channels: 70 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms, 125 W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms
- Bridged: 250 W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms; response 20 Hz-20 kHz
- Class D with NexD technology
- Cast aluminium chassis, IPX7 rating
- Differential-balanced inputs
- Footprint 237 x 115 x 45 mm
- Operating voltage 11-15 V
NexD technology
The high-efficiency NexD design cuts current draw and heat and gives high-fidelity sound without straining smaller charging systems.
Signal processing
Behind the waterproof door of the control panel there is a full set of filters and processing functions, which makes setup simple and the system flexible. Each pair of channels has a defeatable filter, low-pass or high-pass, adjustable from 35 to 300 Hz with a 12 dB per octave slope; the input switches between 2, 3 and 4 channels.
Inputs
The differential-balanced inputs also accept the high-level signal from speaker outputs, with no converter, and reject noise. The RCA input switches between a low and a high range.
The MX series
The series includes two full-range stereo amplifiers with four channels, 280 and 500 W, one 600 W system amplifier with two full-range outputs and one for the subwoofer, and two monoblocks, 300 and 500 W. The two smaller models measure 220 x 78.5 mm in plan, the other three 237 x 115 mm; height is 45 mm for all of them.
Build and installation
The small cast aluminium chassis is rugged, shock resistant and waterproof, rated IPX7. Powder coating and marine-grade hardware stop corrosion, and the safety door shields the controls. It measures 237 x 115 x 45 mm, fits in confined spaces too and runs on 11 to 15 V DC. The indicated fuse is 50 A, AFS, AGU or MaxiFuse type, and the power and ground cable 4 AWG copper at least. The series goes beyond international standards for salt and UV exposure.
What's in the box
- The amplifier, with its harnesses for power and signal
- Four self-tapping screws (2.5 cm)
