JL Audio JLA-010-03344-00 XDM800 8-Channel 24V Marine Amplifier Character

Professional-grade 8-channel Class D amplification engineered specifically for 24V commercial marine and heavy vehicle applications.

Product Overview

The JL Audio XDM800 8-channel amplifier delivers comprehensive full-range amplification for 24V electrical systems found in commercial vessels, charter boats, coach buses, and heavy transport applications. With 100W RMS per channel at 2Ω (800W total) or 90W per channel at 4Ω (720W total), this marine-rated Class D platform drives complete audio systems including cabin speakers, tower speakers, and helm zones from a single amplifier. The 24V-specific design operates optimally at 25-28.8V input, making it ideal for diesel-powered vessels, commercial fishing boats, and work trucks running dual 12V battery configurations in series.

Built on JL Audio's proven XDM architecture with marine-grade conformal coating, the 8-channel configuration allows flexible system design: run all eight channels independently, bridge pairs for higher power to four zones, or combine configurations for mixed full-range and subwoofer applications. Variable high-pass and low-pass filtering on all channel pairs (50Hz-500Hz, 12dB/octave slopes) enables precise tuning for different speaker types and mounting locations. At 374mm wide with a 40A fuse rating and 4 AWG wire compatibility, the XDM800 represents the ultimate commercial marine amplification solution for Australian charter operators, commercial fishermen, and fleet managers demanding reliability in harsh coastal conditions.

Key Specifications

• 8-channel Class D amplifier designed for 24V electrical systems
• Maximum rated power (28.8V @ 2Ω, <1% THD): 100W RMS × 8 channels (800W total)
• Power at 4Ω load (28.8V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 90W RMS × 8 channels (720W total)
• Bridged power (28.8V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 180W RMS × 4 channels (720W total bridged)
• Power at 2Ω load (25V @ 2Ω, <1% THD): 100W RMS × 8 channels (800W total)
• Power at 4Ω load (25V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 90W RMS × 8 channels (720W total)
• Bridged power (25V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 180W RMS × 4 channels (720W total bridged)
• Operating voltage: 24V DC systems (designed for 25-28.8V input)
• Frequency response: 12Hz-22kHz (+0, -1dB)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >104dB (A-weighted, 20Hz-20kHz, referred to rated power) - applicable to 6-channel 24V model, not specified separately for 8-channel
• THD+N: <1% @ rated power, 2Ω per channel
• Input voltage range: Not specified for 24V models
• Damping factor: Not specified for 24V models
• Filter modes (Channels 1 & 2): Not specified for 24V 8-channel
• Filter modes (Channels 3 & 4): Not specified for 24V 8-channel
• Filter modes (Channels 5 & 6): Not specified for 24V 8-channel
• Filter modes (Channels 7 & 8): Not specified for 24V 8-channel
• Dimensions: 374mm (W) × 180mm (D) × 52mm (H)
• Weight: Not specified for 24V 8-channel variant
• Fuse rating: 40A (AFS, AGU or MaxiFuse™ recommended)
• Minimum power/ground wire: 4 AWG copper
• Remote level control: Optional HD-RLC or MHD-RLC (water-resistant)
• Marine-rated construction suitable for wet/harsh environments
• 3-year manufacturer warranty

Features & Benefits

24V Commercial Marine Design
Purpose-built for 24V electrical systems common in commercial vessels, charter boats, and heavy transport. Unlike 12V amplifiers that struggle with voltage compatibility, the XDM800 operates optimally at 25-28.8V input—the native voltage range of diesel-powered boats, coach buses, and commercial fishing vessels with dual 12V batteries wired in series. Eliminates the need for voltage converters or multiple 12V amplifiers in 24V installations.

8-Channel Flexibility
Drive complete multi-zone audio systems from a single amplifier. Run all eight channels independently for cabin speakers, flybridge zones, cockpit areas, and helm stations. Bridge channel pairs (1+2, 3+4, 5+6, 7+8) for 180W output to demanding tower speakers or marine subwoofers. Mix configurations: six channels for full-range speakers plus one bridged pair for a subwoofer, providing maximum installation flexibility for commercial applications.

Marine-Rated Class D Topology
Conformal-coated circuit boards withstand salt spray, bilge moisture, and corrosive marine environments encountered in Australian commercial fishing, charter operations, and offshore work vessels. The robust construction handles tropical humidity in Far North Queensland, Southern Ocean conditions off Tasmania, and everything between. Engineered for installations where amplifier failure isn't an option—charter boats operating daily, commercial fishing vessels at sea for weeks, or work boats in remote locations.

Variable Filtering Across All Channel Pairs
Precise crossover control on channels 1&2, 3&4, 5&6, and 7&8 allows system-specific tuning. High-pass filter cabin speakers to remove low-frequency strain, low-pass subwoofer channels for dedicated bass reproduction, or run full-range where needed. The 12dB/octave slopes and 50Hz-500Hz range accommodate any speaker configuration, from compact marine coaxials to high-output tower speakers and marine subwoofers.

Compact 24V Power Distribution
The 40A fuse rating and 4 AWG wire compatibility simplify installation in commercial vessels with existing 24V distribution systems. Unlike cobbling together multiple 12V amplifiers with voltage converters, the XDM800 integrates directly into 24V electrical infrastructure, reducing wiring complexity, connection points, and potential failure modes. Critical for fleet installations where consistency and serviceability matter.

Optional Water-Resistant Remote Control
Add JL Audio's HD-RLC or MHD-RLC (not included) to adjust system volume from the helm, flybridge, or entertainment zone. Essential for commercial charter operators who need guest-accessible volume control, or fishing guides adjusting audio levels between travel and fishing modes. The remote provides convenient control without accessing the amplifier installation location.

Extended Chassis for Thermal Management
The 374mm (14.73") chassis accommodates substantial heat sink area, enabling sustained full-power operation across all eight channels without thermal compression. Critical for commercial applications running audio continuously during day charters, fishing trips, or long-distance transport. The Class D efficiency minimizes heat generation, but the extended chassis ensures reliable cooling even in poorly ventilated engine rooms or equipment bays.

Technical Specs

• Amplifier class: Class D
• Channels: 8 (Full-range)
• Operating voltage: 24V DC systems (25-28.8V input range)

Power Output (varies by voltage and load impedance):

• Maximum rated power (28.8V @ 2Ω, <1% THD): 100W RMS × 8 (800W total)
• Power at 4Ω load (28.8V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 90W RMS × 8 (720W total)
• Bridged power (28.8V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 180W RMS × 4 (720W total bridged)
• Power at 2Ω load (25V @ 2Ω, <1% THD): 100W RMS × 8 (800W total)
• Power at 4Ω load (25V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 90W RMS × 8 (720W total)
• Bridged power (25V @ 4Ω, <1% THD): 180W RMS × 4 (720W total bridged)
• THD+N @ rated power: <1% @ 2Ω per channel
• Frequency response (+0, -1dB): 12Hz-22kHz (assuming full-range operation similar to other multi-channel models)
• Remote level control compatibility: Optional HD-RLC or MHD-RLC (water-resistant)
• Recommended fuse type: AFS, AGU or MaxiFuse™
• Fuse rating: 40A
• Minimum copper power/ground wire gauge: 4 AWG
• Physical dimensions (W × D × H): 374mm × 180mm × 52mm (14.73" × 7.09" × 2.05")
• Weight: Not specified
• Warranty: 3 years

Important Note: This is a 24V-specific model designed for commercial marine vessels, heavy vehicles, and applications with dual 12V batteries in series. It is NOT compatible with standard 12V automotive/marine electrical systems. Verify your system operates at 24V (25-28.8V range) before purchase.

Compatible With / Goes Well With

Speaker Recommendations:

• Marine coaxial speakers rated 75-100W RMS (6", 6.5", or 6×9" sizes)
• Marine tower speakers rated 100-180W RMS per speaker (when bridged)
• Marine component speaker systems rated 75-100W RMS
• Marine subwoofers rated 180W RMS per driver (when using bridged channel pairs)
• Full-range cabin speakers for multi-zone installations

Installation Accessories:

• 4 AWG amplifier wiring kit designed for 24V systems with 40A+ inline fuse holder
• JL Audio HD-RLC or MHD-RLC water-resistant remote level control
• Marine-grade speaker wire (14-16 AWG recommended for most runs)
• RCA interconnect cables with marine-grade shielding
• 24V-compatible distribution blocks for multi-amplifier systems
• Heavy-duty amplifier mounting brackets or marine-rated equipment racks

System Compatibility:

• Marine head units with 24V DC operation and preamp outputs
• Commercial marine audio processors with 24V compatibility
• 24V electrical systems (dual 12V batteries in series configuration)
• Charter vessels, commercial fishing boats, work boats with 24V infrastructure
• Coach buses, heavy transport vehicles with 24V electrical systems

Electrical System Requirements:

• Confirmed 24V DC electrical system (25-28.8V operating range)
• Dual 12V batteries wired in series for 24V output
• Adequate alternator capacity for continuous audio operation
• Proper 24V distribution with circuit protection
• Dedicated ground point to hull/chassis

Caution: This amplifier requires a 24V electrical system. It will NOT operate on standard 12V automotive/marine systems. Verify your vessel or vehicle operates at 24V before ordering. Attempting to connect to a 12V system will result in insufficient power and potential amplifier damage. For 12V applications, consider the standard XDM 8-channel 12V variant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this amplifier compatible with my 12V boat electrical system?
No. This model requires a 24V DC system (25-28.8V input range). It's designed for commercial vessels, charter boats, and heavy vehicles with dual 12V batteries wired in series. For 12V applications, you need the standard XDM 8-channel 12V model (not this 24V variant).

Can I bridge channels for higher power to tower speakers or subwoofers?
Yes. Bridge adjacent channel pairs (1+2, 3+4, 5+6, 7+8) for 180W RMS per bridged pair at 4Ω load. This allows four bridged outputs at 180W each, ideal for marine tower speakers or subwoofers requiring more power than single-channel 100W output.

What wire gauge do I need for a 24V installation?
Minimum 4 AWG copper power and ground wire with 40A fuse (AFS, AGU, or MaxiFuse™) within 45cm of battery positive terminal. Use marine-grade tinned copper wire for saltwater applications. Unlike 12V systems drawing higher current, 24V systems typically require less current for equivalent power, but maintain proper gauge for voltage drop prevention.

Will this work in my coach bus or heavy truck with 24V electrical system?
Yes, if your vehicle has a true 24V DC system (dual 12V batteries in series) operating at 25-28.8V. Common in commercial buses, heavy transport, and some recreational vehicles with diesel engines. Verify voltage with multimeter before installation—24V nominal systems typically read 25-28V depending on charge state.

How do I set up multi-zone audio with independent volume control?
Use channels 1&2 for Zone 1 (cabin), 3&4 for Zone 2 (cockpit), 5&6 for Zone 3 (flybridge), and 7&8 for Zone 4 (tower speakers). The optional HD-RLC remote controls master volume. For zone-independent control, install separate volume controls in each zone, or use a marine audio processor with zone management feeding the amplifier inputs.