Description
JL Audio JLA-010-03106-00 MX500/4 Marine and Powersports 4-Channel Amplifier
Built to dominate harsh marine and powersports environments while delivering clean, powerful audio across four channels.
Product Overview
The JL Audio MX500/4 is a purpose-built marine and powersports amplifier engineered to withstand the punishing conditions of saltwater, spray, and extreme weather. With its IPX7 waterproof rating and compact Class D design, this amplifier delivers 500 watts of total power in a package that fits where others won't. The MX500/4 produces 125 watts RMS per channel at 2Ω, or 250 watts bridged, making it ideal for powering marine speakers, tower speakers, or creating a complete four-channel system on boats, jet skis, and off-road vehicles.
Designed for flexibility, the MX500/4 features switchable channel input modes allowing 2, 3, or 4-channel operation, variable crossovers on all channels, and a remote bass control option. The amplifier's sealed construction protects against corrosion while maintaining exceptional sound quality with signal-to-noise ratios exceeding 88dB. Compatible with JL Audio's M3 marine speakers, MediaMaster stereos, and Stealthbox systems, this amplifier integrates seamlessly into premium marine audio installations.
Features & Benefits
IPX7 Waterproof Rating: Fully sealed construction withstands complete submersion up to 1 metre, protecting electronics from saltwater spray, boat washdowns, and extreme humidity during offshore adventures or powersports riding.
500W Class D Power Architecture: Efficient amplification delivers 125W x 4 channels at 2Ω or 250W x 2 bridged while minimizing heat generation, critical for enclosed marine installations where ventilation is limited and temperatures soar.
Switchable Channel Configuration: Reconfigure between 2, 3, or 4-channel modes to power front/rear speakers, add a subwoofer, or create custom setups without replacing hardware—perfect for evolving boat audio systems or multi-zone applications.
Variable Crossover Control (35-300Hz): Precisely tune each channel pair with adjustable 12dB/octave high-pass or low-pass filters, optimizing frequency distribution between marine speakers and subwoofers for balanced, distortion-free sound across the frequency spectrum.
Compact Marine-Grade Footprint: Measuring just 237mm x 115mm x 45mm and weighing 1.44kg, this amplifier mounts in tight spaces under seats, behind dashboards, or in hull compartments common to boats and UTVs.
Wide Input Voltage Range: Dual-mode sensitivity switching (Low: 250mV-4V / High: 750mV-15V) ensures clean signal matching with factory stereos, aftermarket head units, or JL Audio MediaMaster systems without noise or distortion.
Bass Boost EQ Control: Add up to 12dB of boost at 45Hz to enhance low-frequency impact when running full-range speakers or small subwoofers, delivering chest-thumping bass without requiring dedicated subwoofer electronics.
Output Polarity Switch: Correct phase issues instantly when mounting speakers in opposing locations or integrating with factory systems, ensuring proper acoustic alignment without rewiring.
Technical Specs
| Specification |
Value |
| Model |
JLA-010-03106-00 MX500/4 |
| Channels |
4-Channel Full-Range |
| Amplifier Class |
Class D |
| RMS Power @ 14.4V, 4Ω |
70W x 4 / 250W x 2 (Bridged) |
| RMS Power @ 14.4V, 2Ω |
125W x 4 |
| RMS Power @ 12.5V, 4Ω |
55W x 4 / 180W x 2 (Bridged) |
| RMS Power @ 12.5V, 2Ω |
90W x 4 |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio |
>88dB (A-weighted, ref rated power) |
| THD+N @ Rated Power |
<1% @ 2Ω per channel |
| Frequency Response |
20Hz - 20kHz (+0, -1dB) |
| Damping Factor @ 4Ω |
>92 @ 50Hz |
| Damping Factor @ 2Ω |
>43 @ 50Hz |
| Waterproof Rating |
IPX7 |
| Crossover Type |
Variable High-Pass or Low-Pass |
| Filter Slope |
12dB/octave |
| Filter Frequency Range |
35Hz - 300Hz |
| Bass Boost |
0 to +12dB @ 45Hz |
| Input Voltage Range |
250mV-4V (Low) / 750mV-15V (High) |
| Operating Voltage |
11-15 VDC |
| Fuse Rating |
50A (AFS, AGU, or MaxiFuse) |
| Power Wire Gauge |
4 AWG minimum |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) |
237mm x 115mm x 45mm |
| Weight |
1.44kg |
| Warranty |
3 Years |
Compatible With / Goes Well With
- JL Audio M3 Marine Speakers (all sizes)
- JL Audio M3 Enclosed Tower Speakers
- JL Audio M3 Marine Subwoofers
- JL Audio MediaMaster 55 and 105 Stereos
- JL Audio Stealthbox Systems for Polaris RZR
- Marine head units with RCA outputs
- Powersports audio systems (UTVs, ATVs, snowmobiles)
- Wakeboard boats and performance vessels
- Pontoon boat audio upgrades
Caution: Verify your electrical system can supply adequate current (50A fuse rating requires quality wiring and alternator capacity). Professional marine installation recommended for warranty compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this amplifier work with my factory boat stereo?
Yes, the switchable input sensitivity accommodates both factory and aftermarket head unit voltage levels. Use the High input mode (750mV-15V) for most factory systems.
Can I run tower speakers and a subwoofer with this amp?
Absolutely. Configure channels 1-2 for tower speakers using high-pass filters, then bridge channels 3-4 for a subwoofer using low-pass mode, delivering clean separation.
Is the IPX7 rating sufficient for saltwater environments?
Yes, IPX7 certification means the amplifier survives complete submersion up to 1 metre. The sealed construction prevents corrosion from spray and humidity in marine applications.
What wire gauge do I need for installation?
Minimum 4 AWG copper wire for power and ground. Use marine-grade tinned wire and proper fusing to prevent voltage drop and ensure reliability.
Does it include a remote bass control?
No, the optional RBC-1 remote bass control is sold separately. It allows convenient bass level adjustment from the helm or driver's seat.
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Only authorized Frankies BrandBeast dealers are factory-trained to sell and install our products. They have the expertise to ensure your purchase is set up correctly and meets your expectations.
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Buying from an authorized dealer ensures you’re getting genuine products, full warranty coverage, and expert support. Ask yourself—is saving a few bucks worth losing all that?
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