Hifonics Andromeda 21st Aniversary Amplifier Owner Manual

 NEIROVMEDR SERIES
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ANDROMEDA
21st ANNIVERSARY EDITION HIGH PERFORMANCE AMPLIFI
As Hifonics celebrates it's 21st Anniversary of producing the finest high end car audio products available, we would like to t
your continued support.
The Andromeda Series range of products have been designed to a very high level of performance, with features unavailable
product. All of the amplifiers have variable crossovers built in, with added touches such as subsonic filter, bass equalizatior
remote control module that allows subsonic bass control from reach of the drivers seat.
To insure years of listening pleasure, all amplifiers have a built in diagnostic mode that will detect shorted speaker leads, lo:
dangerous high temperatures, DC shorts and will shut down the amp fo prevent serious damage.
INDEX PAGE
Amplifier Feature Descriptions.................r.mmmneneeeneen EEE A
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 2 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS...............-......ee.c. een 0-3
Full range stereo / Full range mono / 2 way active with mono bass using two 2 channel models
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 4 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPUCANONE cuore
4, 3 and 2 channel full range / ? way active, with mono bass /
front/rear high pass using a 2 channel model for mono sub bass
NEPTUNE A1000D / VENUS A1500D D-CLASS MONO AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS...................e.me.e 7
General installation notes and LT 8
Setting up systems after installation for best performancoe..........................——..—........ ee 9
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics................................ ese ee Deere eee rien 40
U er 11
Product WA enn —];;]—Ú erben EE EE
The contents of this manual may not be reproduced or copied with out
written consent of MAXXSONICS USA, Inc.
AMPLIFIER FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS
ANDROMEDA SERIES Amplifiers:
Each model is capable of 4 & 2-Ohms stereo per channel, or 4-Ohms mono ; All crossovers are fully variable in their respective ranges.
bridged operation. к ' * Crossover filters are 12dB/Octave for stereo filters, 4 24dB/Octave for mono filters,
- Tri-Mode operation with any stereo pair of amplifier channels is possible, as with all + APOWER LED indicates the powered up and tumed on condition.
bridgeable amplifiers. * All Hifonics amplifiers feature a comprehensive diagnostic system, with speaker lead
+ The input sensitivities for rated output powers are variable from 0.2 volt to 6 volt. short circuit, and amplifier DC faults indicated by the DIAGNOSTIC, or PROTECT LED.
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 2 CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS
EER EET eed aca ee
Pr — HIFONICS 6 LINE INPUT 1/2 CH LINE OUT
|| HI PASS— X-OVER— LOW PASS-BASS EQ— LEVEL POWER MET os
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The X-OVER slide switch selects the internal crossover functions: Note that the LOW PASS signal is MONO.
-The input signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, regardless of -In the LP/BP position, the HIGH PASS filter acts as a subsonic filter.
the X-OVER setting simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers. -When the LP/BP mode is selected, a 0 to +18 dB, at 45 Hz, BASS
-HI: Selects the built in HIGH PASS filter, variable from 10 Hz to 1.2 kHz. EQ is also switched in.
-FLAT. Bypasses all crossovers for full frequency range operation. The REMOTE jack enables dash mount level control of the LOW
-LP/BP: Selects the built in LOW PASS filter, variable from 30 Hz to 150 Hz. PASS signal.
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 4 CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS
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The AMPLIFIER CH-1/2 X-OVER slide switch selects the input signal for The AMPLIFIER CH-3/4 X-OVER slide switch selects the input signal
channel pair 1 & 2: for channel pair 3 & 4.
-HI: Selects the built-in HIGH PASS filter, variable from 10 Hz to 1.2 kHz. -HI: Selects the builtin HIGH PASS filter, variable from 10Hz to
«FULL: e all crossovers for full frequency range operation. 1.2kHz.
-LP/BP: Selects the built in LOW PASS filter, from 30 Hz to 150 Hz. "FULL: Bypasses all crossovers for full frequency range operation.
Note that the LOW PASS signal is MONO. -Full range signal from channels 1 / 2 inputs are routed to the Line
-In the LP/BP position, the HIGH PASS filter acts as a subsonic filter. OUT -RCA jacks, regardless of the setting of the X-OVER switches.
-When the LP/BP mode is selected, a 0 to +18 dB, at 45 Hz, BASS EQ -The REMOTE jack enables dash mount level control of the LOW
is also switched in. PASS signal, CH3/4 only.
These amps are capable of 4, 2 & 1-Ohm loads. CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE ANY AMPLIFIER BELOW THE INTENDED IMPEDANCE.
The input sensitivities for rated output powers are variable from 0.2 volt to 9 volts. YOU WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER THAT WILL NOT BE COVERED
All crossovers are fully variable in their respective ranges. UNDER THE WARRANTY PRINTED IN THE BACK OF THE MANUAL.
Crossover filter slopes are 24 dB/Octave for mono filters. Mono amps: 4, 2 & 1-Ohms.
NEPTUNE A1000D / VENUS A1500D D-CLASS MONO AMPLIFIER
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The 1-channel mono amplifiers are capable of 4, 2 and 1-Ohm. LEVEL: allows you to match the amplifier input level (gain) to the Radio/CD output level.
The line input signal is routed directly to the line output RCA’s jacks regardless of the POWER: The green LED indicates that the amp has power, ground and remote turn-on
crossover settings. PROTECT: indicates that the amplifier has detected a fault and will not operate.
-There are several possible problems that can cause the amplifier to go into the protect
The REMOTE jack allows the addition of the ABR-1 bass remote module which controls mode. See the trouble shooting guide in the back of the manual for details.
the Bass EQ. BALANCED INPUT: Accepts line level balanced input from 0.4v to 18v. The XX-BLD
can be used as a balanced line driver.
SUBSONIC: allows control from 15Hz to 35Hz
BASS EQ: allows control from 0dB to +18dB
LOW PASS: allows control from 35Hz to 250Hz
PHASE: shift allows 0 degrees to 180 degrees
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 2 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
FULL RANGE STEREO
This is the most basic application for the Andromeda Series 2 channel amplifiers.
1. Interconnect cable checklist:
Connect the LINE INPUTS to the Radio/CD with good quality RCA cables.
2. Crossover Switch:
The X-OVER switch must be in the FLAT position. a —— пса
3. Crossover frequency control checklist: | |
N/A for full range operation.
4. Line Level:
Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best performance” o
5. Bass Remote Module: NA
7
Plug in the Bass Remote Module to the amplifier ‘REMOTE jack.
NOTE: Minimum final loudspeaker impedances: — —/
4 & 2-Ohms stereo mode or 4-Ohms mono mode
This amplifier will not do 1-Ohm stereo or 2/1-Ohm mono operation. |
SPEAKERS
FULL RANGE |
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FULL RANGE En
STEREO LINE INPUT
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, a ; REMOTE TURN-ON
TO BATTERY + 12 Volts VIA FUSE
FULL RANGE MONO
This application illustrates the basic mono bridging method for all Hifonics ~~ N/A for full range operation. | |
amplifiers. TIP: If you are using the mono sub bass output of an active crossover, there is
nothing wrong with switching in the low pass filter in these amplifiers for a
Interconnect cable checklist: steeper low pass rolloff.
A MONO signal source is required, such as would be available from the mono |
sub bass output of an active crossover, whether stand alone, or built into a head ~~ Minimum final loudspeaker impedance:
unit or equalizer. Important : Do not be tempted to connect the hot, or positive — = 4-Ohms mono.
outputs, from any source together to obtain a mono signal, as this could very
well damage the output stage of that source. a
It is necessary to feed the SAME signal to both left and right inputs via a Y- |
adapter RCA cable. Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, |
and its negative terminal to RIGHT -.
Switch sefting checklist: NU E.
- The AMPLIFIER X-OVER switch must be in the FULL position. | T
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FULL RANGE | \
Crossover frequency control setting checklist: MONO SPEAKER
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REMOTE TURN-ON
TO BATTERY + 12 Volts VIA FUSE
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 2 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
Stereo high pass with mono low-pass in a 2 way active, or bi-amplified system
In this application we will use a 2 channel amplifier for the high frequencies, and
a second one for the low frequencies, or mono sub bass. Please consult the
speaker specifications to determine maximum amplifier power requirements.
Interconnect cable checklist:
Connect the inputs of the bass amplifier to a Radio/CD with good quality RCA
cables. Connect the LINE OUT of the bass amplifier to the inputs of the highs
amplifier with a stereo RCA to RCA cable.
Mono bass woofer wiring:
Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, and its negative
terminal to RIGHT -.
Switch setting checklist:
- Highs amplifier: X-OVER switch in the HI position.
- Lows amplifier: X-OVER switch in the LP/BP position.
Crossover frequency control checklist:
Highs amplifier:
- HI PASS: 100 Hz
- LOW PASS: N/A
Lows amplifier:
- HI PASS (Subsonic filter): 10 Hz to 40 Hz
- LOW PASS: 100 Hz
Please note that these frequency points are suggestions only. Refer to the
loudspeaker manufacturer specifications and the section “Setting up systems
after installation for best performance”
Level control checklist:
- Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best
performance”
Minimum final loudspeaker impedances:
- 2 ohm per channel stereo.
- 4 ohm mono bridged.
| STEREO
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INTERCONNECT SPEAKER
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MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 4 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
4 CHANNEL FULL RANGE SYSTEM
Here we show how to use the 4 channel amplifiers as straightforward discrete 4 | control checklist: eu |
channel full range units. - d to the section Setting up systems after installation for best
performance
Interconnect cable checklist: | ;
- Connect the four inputs of the amplifier to a Radio/CD with quality RCA cables. LeveMinimum final loudspeaker impedances:
- 2-0hms per channel.
Switch setting checklist:
- 1/2CH X-OVER: FULL — JE. a
- 3/4CH X-OVER: FULL р La I.
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Crossover frequency control checklist: | | | =|
Channels 1/2: | | | | FULL RANGE
- HI PASS: N/A | | =
- LOW PASS: N/A | a LL 7 Vy NE
Channels 3/4: —— e DA {+ =H = + =
- HI PASS: N/A |
-LOWPASS: NA — = — x
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2 or 3 CHANNEL FULL RANGE SYSTEM
Crossover frequency control checklist:
Here we show how to use the 4 channel amplifiers as full range 2 or 3 channel Channels 1/2:
units by taking advantage of the mono bridging capability of all Hifonics - HI PASS: N/A
amplifiers. - LOW PASS: N/A
The following example shows how to create a 3 channel system by mono Channels 3/4:
bridging channel pair 3 / 4. In order to create a 2 channel system, simply follow - HI PASS: N/A
the example to also mono bridge channel pair 1 / 2. - LOW PASS: N/A
Interconnect cable checklist:
- Connect the inputs of channel pair 1/2 to a suitable stereo source, e.g. a head
unit with good quality RCA cables.
- A MONO signal source is required to bridge channel pair 3/4, such as would be
available from the mono sub bass output of an active crossover, whether
standalone, or built into a head unit or equalizer.
Important: Do not be tempted to connect the hot, or positive outputs, from any
source together to obtain a mono signal, as this could very well damage the
TIP: If you are using the mono sub bass output of an active crossover, there is
nothing wrong with switching in the low pass filter in these amplifiers for a
steeper low pass rolloff.
Level control checklist:
- Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best
performance”
output stage of that source. Mini final loudspeaker impedances:
- Itis necessary to feed the SAME signal to both left and right inputs via a Y- ; Ear 100718 REDES e
adapter RCA cable. 2 ohm per channel in stereo mode.
- Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, and its negative - 4 ohm mono bridged.
terminal to RIGHT - as shown.
Switch setting checklist;
= 1/2CH X-OVER: FULL
- 3/4CH X-OVER: FULL
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MERCURY A4000 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 4 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
2 way active, or bi-amplified system with mono bass
This application shows how easily a 2 way active system can be implemented Channels 3/4:
using an Andromeda 4 channel amplifier. Channels 1 and 2 will be used for - HI PASS (subsonic): 20 Hz
highs, and channels 3 and 4 for mono bass. - LOW PASS: 100 Hz
Interconnect cable checklist:
- We need to feed the same signal to both sets of channels, so must use 2 Y-
adapters, one to feed the LEFT signal to channels 1 and 3, and the right signal to
channels 2 and 4, as shown.
Please note that these frequency points are suggestions only. Refer to the
loudspeaker manufacturer specifications and the section “Setting up systems
after installation for best performance”
Level control checklist:
Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best
performance”
Mono bass woofer wiring:
- Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, and its negative t
erminal to RIGHT -,
Minimum final loudspeaker impedances:
Switch setting checklist: - 2 ohm per channel in stereo mode.
- 1/2CH X-OVER: HI
- 3/4CH X-OVER: LP/BP
Crossover frequency control checklist:
Channels 1/2:
- HI PASS: 100 Hz
- 4 ohm mono bridged.
- LOW PASS: N/A MONO STEREO
/ BASS HIGHS
LEFT TO SPEAKER SPEAKERS
CHANNELS PTC
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2 way active, or bi-amplified system with mono bass, and faded highs/lows
Here we present a variation of the previous system. Since this is a 2 way
system, we can use the front outputs from a head unit to drive the highs, and the
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rear output to drive the bass This method allows the listener to easily adjust the f cé E — |
relative levels of bass to highs, with the front to rear fade on the head unit. || 2425 re
Channels 1 and 2 will be used for highs, and channels 3 and 4 for mono bass. (T | | |
Interconnect cable checklist: | Н |
- Use good quality RCA leads to connect the inputs of the amplifier to the source | | | Æ
as shown. {| \ A |
- Follow the instructions as per the previous system for switch and crossover : cu < —
settings.
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MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 4 CHANNEL AMPLIF IER APPLICATIONS
Front/rear high pass, using a 2 channel amplifier for mono sub bass
The combination of a 2 and a 4 channel amplifier, utilizing their built in
crossovers, makes it a snap to put together a full system with front and rear
highs, with mono sub bass.
Interconnect cable checklist:
- Using good quality RCA cables, feed the front and rear outputs of a head
unit to the inputs of the 4 channel amplifier as shown.
- Also connect the LINE OUT of the 4 channel amplifier to the LINE INPUT
of the 2 channel amplifier as shown.
Mono bass woofer wiring:
Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, and its negative
terminal to RIGHT -.
Switch setting checklist:
4 channel highs amplifier:
- 1/2CH X-OVER: HI
- 3/4CH X-OVER: HI
2 channel bass amplifier:
- X-OVER switch: LP/BP
Crossover frequency control checklist:
- 4 channel highs amplifier:
Channels 1/2:
- HI PASS: 100 Hz
LOW PASS: N/A
Channels 3/4:
- HI PASS: 100 Hz
- LOW PASS: N/A
2 channel bass amplifier:
- HI PASS (Subsonic filter): 10 Hz to 40 Hz
- LOW PASS: 100 Hz
Please note that these frequency points are suggestions only. Refer to the
loudspeaker manufacturer specifications and the section “Setting up systems
after installation for best performance”
Level control checklist:
- Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best
performance”
Minimum final loudspeaker impedances:
- 2 ohm per channel in stereo mode.
- 4 ohm mono bridged.
FRONT HIGHS
REAR HIGHS
SPEAKERS
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NEPTUNE A1000D / VENUS A1500D D-CLASS AMPLIFIER FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS
ANDROMEDA SERIES amplifiers:
- Each model is capable of 4, 2 & 1-Ohm loads.
- The input sensitivities for rated output powers are variable from 0.2 volt to 9 volts.
- All crossovers are fully variable in their respective ranges.
- Crossover filter slopes are 24dB/Octave for mono filters.
-APOWER LED indicates the powered up and tumed on condition.
- All Hifonics amplifiers feature a comprehensive diagnostic system, with speaker lead short
circuit, and amplifier DC faults indicated by the DIAGNOSTIC, or PROTECT LED.
CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE ANY AMPLIFIER BELOW THE INTENDED IMPEDANCE.
YOU WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER THAT WILL NOT BE COVERED
UNDER THE WARRANTY PRINTED IN THE BACK OF THE MANUAL.
Mono amps: 4, 2 & 1-Ohm.
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15Hz 35H7 0dB— 18db
The 1 channel mono amplifiers are capable of 4, 2 & 1-Ohm loads and can be
used in any of the “bi-amplifier” systems described in the 2 and 4 channel Zeus, Titan
and GEN XX installation manuals.
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- LEVEL: allows you to match the amplifier input level (gain) to the Radio/CD player
output level.
- POWER: indicates that the amp has power, ground and remote turn-on input via a
green L.E.D.
The line input signal is routed directly to the line output RCA's jacks regardless of the - PROTECT: indicates that the amplifier has detected a fault and will not operate.
crossover settings. There are several possible problems that can cause the am plifier to go into the protect
The REMOTE jack allows the addition of the Bass Remote module which controls mode. See the trouble shooting guide in the back of the manual for details.
the BASS EQ signal. - BALANCED INPUT: Accepts line level balanced input from 0.4V to 18Volts. The XX-BLD
can be used as a balanced line driver,
- SUBSONIC allows control from 15Hz to 35Hz
- BASS EQ allows control from 0dB to 18dB
- LOW PASS allows control from 35Hz to 250Hz
- PHASE shift allows 0 degrees to 180 degrees
NEPTUNE A1000D / VENUS A1500D MONO AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
Basic application
Interconnect cable checklist:
- Connect the line inputs to a Radio/CD RCA outputs or line output of the full range primary amplifier
with good quality RCA cables. A “Y” adapter may be needed as shown in the diagram.
- SUBSONIC:15Hz to 35Hz
- BASS EQ: 0 to +18dB
- PHASE: 0 to 180 degrees
Level control checklist:
- Use at least 16 gauge speaker wiring. These amplifiers have dual speaker terminals, simplifying the - Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best performance”
hookup of multiple speakers
Crossover frequency control checklist:
Minimum final loudspeaker impedance:
- LOW PASS: 35Hz to 250Hz - 1-Ohm.
MONO
SUBWOOFER
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2-OHMS EACH MINIMUM
GENERAL INSTALLATION NOTES
System Design
The success of any car stereo system relies on several factors, such as the system design, execution of the installation, and system setup. This section
is intended т. assist the installer by offering several tips and hints about good installation practice. Please remember that any system is only as good as
its weakest link.
Determine the system format, e.g., single amplifier, active, front/rear and so on. Then choose the amplifier size to according to personal taste. Please remember that
higher power systems are not necessarily useful purely for high sound pressure levels, but also to establish a headroom capability, to reproduce musical peaks
cleanly without distortion. Lower power amplifiers will clip earlier than their more powerful cousins, and cause loudspeaker failure when overdrive, due to the
harmonics generated by a clipped signal, thus overheating voice coils.
Choose loudspeaker and amplifier mounting locations. Loudspeaker location is always a matter of compromise between space and sound stage imaging. Amplifiers
should be mounted with the fins running vertically for best convection cooling, to minimize overheating. Purchase the best quality RCA cables you can afford, for
reliability and less engine noise interference in the audio system.
Installation
General:
Mount the amplifiers in the chosen location.
Run the wiring so that RCA cables are at least 18“ away from power and speaker cables. Keep RCA cables away from electrical devices in the vehicle that can cause
electrical noise, such as fuel pumps.
Power and ground connections:
Use a sufficient gauge power cable, at least # 8 per amplifier. In a multi amplifier system, it is advisable to mount a large enough fuse right at the battery, and run a
master +12 volt power cable to a fused distribution block near the amplifiers. It is then a simple matter to connect the +12 volt terminal of each amplifier to the
distribution block.
Ground each amplifier with as short a ground lead, again at least # 8 gauge, directly to the vehicle chassis. Use a ground distribution block, if you wish, but it is
extremely important to keep the main ground lead from this distribution block to the chassis as short as possible , not more than 12“. The ground connection integrity
to the chassis is very important, and the best way to achieve a good, solid electrical and mechanical contact is to use a large round crimp lug, crimped and soldered
to the ground cable. The next step is to scrape the paint off the vehicle chassis , slightly larger than the ground lug, at the connection point. Drill a clearance hole in
the chassis, the same size as the lug hole, and use a bolt, spring washer and nut to securely fasten the ground lug. Use petroleum jelly to coat the bolt/lug
connection, to prevent oxidization with time.
TIP: Use the same approach when installing head units, equalizers or any audio equipment for that matter - run short individual grounds from each piece directly to
the vehicle chassis, to minimize ground loops and system noise.
All power, ground and speaker connections should be crimped and soldered for reliability. Make sure that none of the cable insulation can chafe against exposed
metal in the vehicle, causing short circuits to the chassis.
Safe connection sequence:
After all cables are run, connect speaker wires to the speakers and amplifiers, then run and plug in RCA cables. Next, connect all power grounds and remote turn on
leads. Now connect all +12 volt cables to the amplifier/s and distribution blocks and fuse holders. Finally, connect the main +12 volt cable to the battery, with the main
fuse removed, and we are almost ready to power up the system.
Power up the system:
The wg procedure may seem like overkill, but there is nothing more frustrating when tuming on a system for the first time, and it does not work properly
immediately.
First, make sure the head unit is off, and turn all level controls to minimum (anticlockwise), including the head unit volume control. Set all equalizers to 0 dB (no
boost), and all crossover frequency controls at approximate frequencies, as recommended by the loudspeaker manufacturer. Set all input selector and crossover
switches as required for the application. Remove all amplifier fuses, and insert the main fuse at the battery. If the fuse does not blow, you can insert the fuse in one of
the amplifiers, and we are ready to tum on the system. Turn the head unit on, insert a CD, or select a radio station, and increase the head unit volume control. If the
system sounds fine, turn off the head unit, and install fuses in the remaining amplifiers, one by one, till the complete system is powered up and functioning properly.
SETTING UP SYSTEMS AFTER INSTALLATION FOR BEST PERFORMANCE
HIFONICS
21st ANNIVERSARY EDITION
ANDROMEDA
SERIES
General:
As mentioned in the “General Installation Notes” section, the system should now be powered up, and working. At this point, all crossover frequency and input
selection switches should be properly set for the application, and all volume, level and equalizer controls turned to minimum.
Level control setup:
Insert a CD or cassette that you are familiar with to use as a reference, and turn the head unit volume control to about 80% of its full setting. The system sound level
will of course be very low, and the following procedures will help you to match the amplifier input sensitivities properly to the head unit output signal level.
Single 2 channel amplifier systems (SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000):
Turn the level control up slowly, till you hear distortion, then back off a few degrees on the control.
Single 4 channel amplifier systems (MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500):
Tum the channel 182 level control up slowly, till you hear distortion, then back off a few degrees on the control.
Repeat for channel 384.
2 or 3 way active systems (all):
Always start with the bass, or low frequency amplifier as a reference, by turning its control up to the point where distortion is audible, and back it off some.
Now adjust the level control for the highs or tweeter channels in a 2 way active system, to balance the highs to lows.
In a 3 way active system, match the midrange level to the bass, and then the highs to the midrange and bass. It may be necessary to perform a few iterations of the
midrange and highs level control settings to achieve a satisfactory sound balance.
Crossover frequency fine tuning:
We had started off in the “General Installation Notes” section by setting crossover frequency controls to approximate positions, and now you can adjust these for best
sound quality. Be careful not to stray too far from those crossover frequencies as recommended by the loudspeaker manufacturer, as it is quite possible to damage
midrange and tweeters with excess power outside their nominal operating frequency ranges.
Equalizer setup:
Once all levels and crossover frequencies have been set for a pleasant sound balance, we can start equalizing the system frequency response. It is important to
remember that a boost applied at any frequency, or range of frequencies, will cause severe amplifier clipping. The following comments apply to ALL equalizers and
tone controls on the amplifiers, as well as those on head units and dash mount equalizers. Use the head unit volume control to adjust the system to an intermediate
level, and proceed to adjust equalizers and tone controls to personal taste. Now go back to the Level control setup above, and readjust all level controls.
Sit back and enjoy the music!
TROUBLESHOOTING A SYSTEM
The key to finding the problem in a misbehaving sound system is to isolate parts of that system in a logical fashion to track down the fault.
Description of the Diagnostic system built into all Hifonics amplifiers
The diagnostic system will shut down the amplifier, until reset by turning the head unit off, and back on. This state of affairs will be indicated by the front panel
PROTECT LED lighting up under the following conditions:
1 - A sort circuit on the loudspeaker leads.
2 - An internal amplifier fault that causes a DC offset on the loudspeaker output.
If the amplifier go into diagnostic mode, simply disconnect all RCA and speaker leads, while keeping +12 volt, power ground and remote leads connected.
1. Now turn the amplifier back on, and if the diagnostic LED lights, the amplifier has an internal fault.
2. If not, plug the RCA cables back, and reset the amplifier. If it goes into diagnostic now, the fault lies in the input, either with bad cables or source unit.
3. If the amplifier seems fine with RCA cables plugged in, connect the speakers, one at a time, and if a speaker or its wiring is faulty, it will activate the diagnostic
system.
Amplifier heatsink overheating
The amplifiers will shut down when the heatsink temperature reaches 80 degrees centigrade, and turn back on once the unit has cooled down below that point.
Causes of overheating:
1 - Inadequate cooling - relocate or remount to provide better natural airflow over the fins.
2 - Driving high power levels into low impedances - back off on the volume control, and/or make sure you are not loading the amplifier with less than the
recommended loudspeaker impedance.
Low output power
1 - Check that level controls have been set up properly.
2 - Make sure that the battery voltage, as measured at the amplifier's +12 volt and ground terminals, is 11 volts or more.
3 - Check all +12 volt and ground connections.
Fuses blowing
1 - The use of loudspeaker impedances below the recommended minimums will draw more current - check.
2 - À short on the main +12 volt cable from the battery to the vehicle chassis will cause the main fuse to blow.
3 - If an amplifier fuse blows continually, with only +12 volt, ground and remote leads connected, the amplifier may be faulty.
System does not turn on
1 - Check all fuses.
2 - Check all connections.
3 - Measure the +12 volt and remote turn on voltages at the amplifier terminals. If these are non existent or low, take voltage measurements at fuse holders,
distribution blocks, the head unit's +12 volt and remote leads to localize the problem.
Noise problems
System noise can be divided into two categories, hiss, and electrical interference.
Hiss, or white noise
1 - High levels of white noise usually occurs when amplifier level controls are turned up too high - readjust according to the procedures in section "Setting up systems
after installation for best performance”
2 ot major problem that can cause excessive hiss, is a noisy head unit - unplug the amplifier input RCA cables, and if the hiss level reduces, the source unit is
at fault.
Electrical interference
The inside of an automobile is a very hostile electrical environment. The multitude of electrical systems, such as the ignition system, alternator, fuel pumps, air
conditioners, to mention just a few, create radiated electrical fields, as well as noise on the +12 volt supply and ground. Remember to isolate the problem - first
unplug amplifier input RCA cables, if the noise is still present, check the speaker leads, if not, plug the RCAs back, and investigate the source driving the amplifier,
one component at a time.
A ticking or whine that changes with engine RPM:
1 - This problem could be caused by radiation pickup of RCA cables too near to a fuel pump or a distributor, for instance, - relocate cables.
2 - Check that the head unit ground is connected straight to the vehicle chassis, and does not use factory wiring for ground.
3 - Try to supply the head unit with a clean +12 volt supply directly from the battery +, instead of using a supply from the in dash wiring/fusebox.
A constant whine:
This type of noise can be more difficult to pinpoint, but is usually caused by some kind of instability, causing oscillations in the system.
1 - Check all connections, especially for good grounds.
2 - Make sure that no speaker leads are shorting to exposed metal on the vehicle chassis.
3 -RCA cables are notorious for their problematic nature, so check that these are good, in particular the shield connections.
10
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HIF ONIC
21st ANNIVERSARY EDITION
ANDROMEDA
SERIES
Maxxsonics Limited Warranty
As the manufacturer of Maxxsonics, Crunch and Hifonics car audio products, Maxxsonics
USA Inc. Warrants to the original consumer purchaser the amplifier to be free from
defects in material and workmanship for one (1) Year from date of purchase.
All other parts and accessories of the system are warrantied to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for one (1) year from date of purchase. Maxxsonics will
repair or replace at it’s option and free of charge during the warranty period, any system
component that proves defective in materials and workmanship under normal installation,
use and service provided that the product is returned to the authorized Maxxsonics dealer
from where it was purchased. A photo copy of the original receipt must accompany the
product being returned.
Valid purchase receipts will contain the name and address of the authorized reseller.
Any damage to the product as a result of misuse, abuse, accident, incorrect wiring,
improper installation, alteration of date code or bar code labels, revolution, natural
disaster, or any sneaky stuff because someone messed up, repair or alteration out side
of our factory or authorized service centers and any thing else you have done that you
should not have done is not covered.
This warranty is limited to defective parts and specifically excludes any incidental
or consequential damages connected therewith. This warranty is not to be construed
as an insurance policy.
Warranty on installation labor, removal, re-installation and freight charges are not the
responsibility of Maxxsonics USA Inc.
Warranty products damaged as a result of insufficient or improper packing materials
are not covered by this limited warranty and such damaged product will be returned
“as is” at the expense of the owner.
MARX XX SONICS"
Designed and Engineered in the USA
www.maxxsonics.com