QUALITY, RELIABILITY, & PURE BLISS
CLASS D AMPLIFIERS
A18001DT A12001DT A8001DT
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
PLEASE RETAIN MANUAL FOR FUTURE USE AND REFERENCE
The Audiobahn Way
To bring the product to market that excites the consumer through sound and vision from an orientation of integrity and customer service. We make you look as good as you sound. We strive to take car audio to an extreme the world has never seen, and a world that never stops evolving.
Audiobahn was established in 1997 with one long-term goal in mind,
" Build it Bigger, Badder, & Better, and the people will take notice!" We back this statement with an engineering team that has brought home several
Innovations, Design & Engineering Showcase Awards, and a marketing team from around the world that spends countless hours developing our no compromise products to satisfy the most discriminating enthusiasts.
Our global manufacturing facilities feature ISO9002 ratings (the highest level of quality control awarded in the electronics manufacturing industry), fully robotic assembly lines and a state of the art, California based R & D laboratory.
Due to overwhelming response from our competitors, and our goal to participate in even more events this year, we created *"TEAM AUDIOBAHN."
This organization is designed to create a support network along with shirts and perks for team members. "TEAM AUDIOBAHN" is not only for the diehard competitor, but also for anyone that loves car audio as much as we do. With four levels of play, one is right for you to get started in the Audiobahn family.
Our Technical Department and entire staff look to strive above and beyond the rest of the pack by going that extra mile to help you out. Whether you happen to be a veteran competitor, or a beginner car audio enthusiast who does not know a voice coil from a spider. We are all her to help you get the best system you can with what you have.
Judge for yourself, and remember what it's all about, "If it's not
Bigger, Badder & Better, it's not Audiobahn." If audio is your life,
Audiobahn is the brand for you! We make you look as good as you sound.
People never stop trying to get the best product, so we will never stop making it.
*To learn more about "TEAM AUDIOBAHN" please give us a call, see our website at www.audiobahn.com, or email us at [email protected] to learn about all the details.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
Features and Specifications
Control and Functions
Planning / Mounting Your System
Wiring Diagram
Bridging 2 Amplifiers
Adjusting and Tuning
Troubleshooting
Warning and Disclaimer
Warranty
13-14
15
16
17
18-19
3
4
5-10
11
12
2
Introduction
Dear Customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of the worlds finest brand of car audio products. Here at
Audiobahn Inc. we are devoted to making our musical reproduction the vert best, and we are pleased you have chosen our product. Through years of engineering expertise, hand craftsmanship, and critical testing procedures, we have created a wide range of products that reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.
For maximum performance we recommend you have your Audiobahn product installed by an
Authorized Audiobahn Dealer, as we provide specialized training through our Audiobahn
Installer Training Programs. Please read your warranty, keep your receipt, and original carton for possible future use.
To get a free brochure on Audiobahn products in the US call (714) 988-0400 or e-mail us at [email protected].
WARNING
Continuous exposure to sound pressure levels over 100dB may cause permanent hearing loss. High powered autosound systems may produce sound pressure levels well over 135dB. Need we say more! Use common sense.
If after reading this manual you still have questions regarding your product, we recommend that you see your nearest Audiobahn Dealer. A list of Authorized
Audiobahn Dealers can be found on our web page. If you need further assistance, feel free to call us at (800) 488-8595 and ask for the Technical Department. Be sure to have the model number, date of purchase, and invoice number available when you call.
The model number can be located on the outside of the carton. Record this in the space provided below along with the date of purchase. It is a good idea to keep your receipt with this as you will need it if you require a warranty, repair service or exchange.
Model Number:___________________ Date of Purchase: _____________________
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Features and Specifications
FEATURES
1-CHANNEL HIGH OUTPUT CLASS D AMPLIFIER
DOUBLE SIDED CIRCUIT BOARD
DUAL COOLING FANS
VARIABLE LOW PASS FILTER
REMOTE BASS BOOST CONTROL
DIGITAL DISPLAY VOLT-METER
ILLUMINATED CIRCUIT BOARD
L.E.D. ILLUMINATED HEAT SINK
VAIRIABLE LOW PASS FILTER
VARIABLE SUBSONIC FILTER
VARIABLE BASS BOOST
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO
INPUT SENSITIVITY
TYPICAL CURRENT DRAW
50Hz - 150Hz
15Hz - 40Hz
0 - 18dB
+ 3dB FROM 15Hz to 150Hz
> 100dB
200mV to 8V
1.4 AMPS
SPECIFICATIONS
Fuse Ratings
A8001DT:
A12001DT:
A18001DT:
30A x 3
30A x 4
30A x 5
Dimensions
A8001DT
A12001DT
A18001DT
(W x H x L) : 11 15/16" x 2 1/2" x 13 3/8"
(W x H x L) : 11 15/16" x 2 1/2" x 14 3/4"
(W x H x L) : 11 15/16" x 2 1/2" x 16 7/8"
POWER OUTPUT
A8001DT 1600 WATTS ACH POWER
INTO 4 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 300 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 2 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 500 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 1 OHM @ 12.5V DC.........................................................1 x 800WATTS RMS Power
A12001DT 2400 WATTS ACH POWER
INTO 4 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 400 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 2 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 750 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 1 OHM @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 1200 WATTS RMS Power
A18001DT 3600 WATTS ACH POWER
INTO 4 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 600 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 2 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 1200 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 1 OHM @ 12.5V DC.........................................................1 x 1800WATTS RMS Power
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Controls and Functions
5
Controls and Functions
1. Bass Boost Gain Remote Control
This plug connects the amplifier and the remote bass knob using the supplied cable.
2. Input Sensitivity Control
This control adjusts the amplifier's input sensitivity. The input sensitivity is variable from 200 Millivolts to 8 volts. Turning clockwise increases sensitivity. Turning counter clockwise decreases sensitivity.
This knob is not a volume control for the amplifier . The amplifier can be driven to full power with a wide range of input signals. A lower signal level will require increased sensitivity to reach full power. A higher signal level will require decreased sensitivity.
3. Low level Input RCA Jacks
These inputs are for signal cables from the source. Always use high quality, shielded RCA cables.
6
Controls and Functions
4. Low Level LINE OUT RCA Jacks
The LINE OUT allows you to build a multiple amplifier system without having to use splitter cords or
Y-adapters to distribute the signal. Now it is simply a matter bringing one set of RCAs into the first amplifier, then using the line out RCA jacks as the feed to the next amplifier.
5. Bass Boost Control
By using the bass boost function, bass notes at 45Hz are emphasized as much as 18dB.
6. Phase Shift Control
Allows you to change the phase of your subwoofer from 0 to 180 degrees to help compensate for timing differences between drivers.
7
Controls and Functions
7. Low-Pass Filter Control
For use as a dedicated subwoofer channel, set the filter switch to the "LPF" (Low Pass Frequency).
Adjust the variable crossover frequency with control knob as desired. The amplifier input circuit filters out everything above 50Hz ... 150Hz (dependant on the adjustment of the frequency control), so only the lowest bass notes are amplified.
8. Sub Sonic Control
The sub sonic control will cut all frequencies below what it is set to from going to your sub(s). This will prevent your subs from playing any frequencies that may harm them.
9. Bridged Connection
This is the connection used to bridge 2 two of the same class D amplifiers together. Later in this manual it is explained how to bridge the amps and what settings to use.
10. Light Switch
This switch is used to tun the extrnal lights on and off. When set to the off position, only the power/protection lights, volt-meter and clipping lights will stay on.
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Controls and Functions
11. Speaker Terminals
These terminals are used to wire your subwoofer(s) to the amplifier.
12. B- Terminal (Chassis Ground)
To avoid unwanted ignition noise caused by ground loops, it is essential that the amplifier be grounded to a clean, bare, metal of the vehicle's chassis. This metal surface should be solid, strong and connected directly to the frame of the car.
Note: GROUND WIRE SHOULD NOT BE EXTENDED MORE THAN 3 FEET (1 METER)
13. B+ Terminal (Battery Positive)
Due to the power requirements of the amplifier, this connection should be made directly to the positive (+) terminal of the battery. For safety purposes, install an in-line fuse holder (not included) as close to the battery positive (+) terminal as possible with an ampere rating not to exceed the total value of fuses in the amplifier.
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Controls and Functions
14. Remote Turn-on Input
The remote terminal needs to be wired to the car's stereo or source unit remote turn on wire. This amplifier is turned on remotely when the vehicle's stereo is turned on.
NOTE: iF YOUR RADIO DOES NOT HAVE A +12 VOLT OUTPUT LEAD WHEN THE CAR IS TURNED
ON, THE "REMOTE" TERMINAL ON THE AMPLIFIER CAN BE CONNECTED TO THE VEHICLE'S
ACCESSORY CIRCUIT THAT IS LIVE WHEN THE KEY IS TURNED ON.
15. LED Indicators
PWR (Power): This BLUE LED will illuminate when the amplifier is turned on. If it fails to illuminate, check the fuses and power connections to the amplifier.
PROT (Protection): The amplifier protection circuitry will disable the amplifier if there is an imput overload, sort vircuit, or extremely high temperature conditions are detected. When the protection mode is in operation, the LED indicator on the side panel will be illuminated RED, indicating the amplifier has gone into a self-preservation mode.
If you observe that the protection LED is lit, please check the system carefully to fetermine what has caused the protection circuit to engage. The amplifier can be reset by turning the remote power off and then on again. If the amplifier shut down due to a thermal overload condition, please allow time for the amp to cool down before restarting. If the amplifier shut down because of an input overload or short circuit, be sure to repair these conditions before attempting to power up the amplifier again.
10
Planning and Mounting Your System
Planning Your System
Before beginning the installation, consider the following: a. If you plan to expand your system by adding other components sometime in the future, ensure that adequate space is left, and cooling requirements are met.
If your radio/source is equipped with Pre-Amp outputs, it is possible to utilize them to drive an Amplifier and connecting (Amplifier) to the 2 rear speakers.
Then, use the built-in power of your radio to drive the 2 front speakers.
NOTE:
DISTORTION LEVEL IS CONSIDERABLY LOWER FROM PRE-AMP (LOW LEVEL)
OUTPUTS, THAN SPEAKER (HIGH LEVEL) OUTPUTS.
b. Are your components matched? The RMS power rating of your speakers must be equal or greater than the Amplifier's. They also must be 1-8 Ohms impedance
(this information is normally printed on the speaker magnet).
c. Consider both the length of your leads, and routing when determining the mounting location. Pre-Amp input Jacks require a length of high quality shielded male to male
RCA patch cord.
Mounting Your System
The mounting position of your Amplifier will have a great effect on its ability to dissipate the heat generated during normal operation. It has an ample heat sink for heat dissipation, and also is designed with a thermal shut-down (for heat protection)circuit, having enough air directed over the cooling fins will improve heat dissipation dramatically.
DO NOT enclose the amplifier in a small box or cover it so that air can not flow around the fins. Temperatures in car trunks have been measured as high as (155 F) in the summer time. Since the thermal shut-down point for the Amplifier is (158 F) it is easy to see that it must be mounted for maximum cooling capability. To achieve the maximum advantage of convection air flow in an enclosed trunk, mount the amplifier in a horizontal position. Cooling requirements are considerably relaxed when mounting inside the passenger compartment since the driver will not allow temperatures to reach a critical point. Floor mounting under the seat is usually satisfactory as long as there is at least 1 inch (2.54 cm) above the Amplifier's fins for ventilation.
a. Select a suitable location that is convenient for mounting, accessible for wiring and has ample room for air circulation and cooling.
b. Use the amplifier as a template to mark the mounting holes. Remove the amplifier and drill holes. Use extreme caution. Inspect underneath the surfaces before drilling!
c. Secure the Amplifier using the screws provided.
CAUTION: Before connecting any wires to the amplifier, disconnect the ground lead from the battery. Leave the ground lead disconnected until you are done wiring the amplifier.
11
Wiring Diagram
12
Bridging 2 Amplifiers
IF BRIDGED SWITCH POSITION IS ON SLAVE, ALL CONTROLS ARE NON-FUNCTIONAL.
ALL CONTROLS ARE NOW CONTROLLED BY THE MASTER AMPLIFIER.
13
Bridging 2 Amplifiers
14
Adjusting and Tuning
ADJUSTING THE GAIN / LEVEL SETTING
Below you will find information on adjusting the amplifiers gains. Adjusting the gain correctly is essential to proper operation of the amplifier. If the gain is not adjusted properly it can and will lead to damage of the amplifier and connected speakers and will void your MANUFACTURER WARRANTY . The gain on an amplifier is not a volume control. It is a signal level setting that tells the amplifier how strong of a signal is coming from the head unit. Your amplifier has an input sensitivity of 200mV-8V. The minimum setting is 8V and the maximum setting is 200mV. Minimum meaning the head unit or processor has an 8V output and the maximum meaning it has a 200mV output.
When using Low-Level (RCA) inputs you MUST know what the pre-out or line-out voltage of your head unit is rate din Volts. This is not the wattage rating. This can be found in the manaul of the head unit or by contacting the manufacturer. If you are using a line-driver or another type of processor that adjusts the output voltage of the signal to the amplifier you will nee dto know what the output is adjusted to. the gain on the amplifier needs to be set proportionately to th pre-out or line-out voltage rating of the head unit or processor.
If the signal strength is 4V then the gain would be adjusted to about 45-50%. Below is a list of commonly found voltage ratings and their appropriate gain adjustments. When adjusting the gains you want to start with the bass boost setting on the amp set to minimum and bass adjustments on the head unit or processor are set at 0 or flat. As these other settings for bass adjustments are increased, the gain setting will need to be adjusted lower.
2V 70%
4V 45%
5V 32.5
8V 5% (Bass boost must be left at minimum on the amp and 0 or flat on the head unit or processor)
If your amplifier includes Hi-Level (speaker wire) inputs and you are using them for the audio signal connection, please use the below steps to adjust the amplifier. Start with a song with good bass that you know very well.
1. Use a screwdriver to turn GAIN (8V/0.2V) fully counterclockwise to 8V
2. Turn the auto sound system's volume control to about 3/4 of its full range. Any higher normally leads to the
signal being distorted.
3. Turn up the amplifiers gain / level control until the sound begins to distort, then immediately gain / level
down to a point just before where the distortion began.
4. Adjust the auto sound system's volume control to a comfortable listening level and you are good to go.
Note: The steps to adjusting the gain / level control need to be repeated when you adjust any bass boost settings on the amplifier, processors or significantly on the head unit. Adjusting bass boost settings significantly without adjusting the gain / level can lead to a distorted signal and damage to the amp and speakers.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you should have any questions concerning the installation or settings on your amplifier or are unsure of anything discussed in this manual, please contact out Technical Support department at 1-800-488-8595 for help. It is much better to take 5 minutes today to get it right then to adjust the settings incorrectly and have a problem with your amp or speakers.
15
Troubleshooting
SYMPTOMS
NO SOUND
AMP NOT
SWITCHING
ON
NO SOUND
IN ONE
CHANNEL
CHECK POINTS
Is the power
LED illuminated ?
( NO )
Is the Diagnostic
LED illuminated ? ( YES )
No power to power wire
No power to remote wire with receiver on
Fuse broken
Check Speaker Leads
Check Audio Leads
AMP
TURNING OFF
MEDIUM/HIGH
VOLUME
Check speaker load impedance
CURE
Check fuses in amplifier.
Be sure Turn-on lead is connected
Check signal leads. Check gain control.
Check Tuner/Deck volume level.
Clean contacts on fuse holders.
Check for speaker short or
Amplifier overheating.
Repair power wire or connections.
Check connections to radio.
Replace fuse.
Inspect for short circuit or an open connection.
Reverse Left and Right RCA inputs to determine if it is occurring before the amp.
Be sure proper speaker load impedance recommendations are observed.
(If you use an ohmmeter to check speaker resistance, please remember that DC resistance and
AC impedance may not be the same.)
STATUS
LAMP ON
Temperature shut down
Speaker wires short
Turn radio down
Separate speaker wires and insulate
16
Warning / Disclaimer
WARNING
Investigate the layout of your automobile thoroughly before drilling or cutting any holes.
Take care when you work near the gas tanks, lines, hydraulic lines, and electrical wiring.
Do not use the power amplifier unmounted. Attach the system securely to the automobile to prevent damage, particularly in the event of an accident. Do not mount the system so that the wire connections are unprotected or are subject to pinching or damage from nearby objects.
The +12V DC power wire must be fused at the battery positive terminal connection.
Before making or breaking power connections at the system power terminals, disconnect the +12V wire at the battery end. Confirm your radio/head unit and/or other equiptment is turned off while connecting the input jacks and speaker terminals.
If you need to replace the power fuse, replace it only with a fuse identical to that supplied with the system. Using a fuse of different type or rating may result in damage to this system which is not covered by the warranty.
Disclaimer
Specifications are subject to change with out notice.
For the most updated Specifications call Audiobahn,
your local Authorized Audiobahn Dealer, or check the Audiobahn website.
www.audiobahn.com
17
Warranty
18
Warranty Continued
How to receive warranty service: Contact your local Authorized Audiobahn Dealer , or call Audiobahn at
(800) 488-8595 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM PST.
If you are having problems with your system, we recommend you check the product carefully and thoroughly to confirm that the product truly has a manufacturer defect; as opposed to abuse, or other components in the system causing the failure. This might include having an Authorized Audiobahn
Dealer look at the product to confirm the source of the problem. Any product found to have a manufacturer defect will be replaced with a new piece of the same or similar model, or repaired at the discretion of Audiobahn . Any product found to have no manufacturer defect will be returned to the sender at their cost.
You must acquire a Return Authorization Number ( #) prior to returning ANY product to
Audiobahn. That Return Authorization Number (RA#) must be prominently and clearly marked on the outside of the shipping carton, or product delivery will be refused (no exceptions will be made).
Please note: All shipping and handling (to and from) charges will be the sole responsibility of the consumer.
Please record and keep your Return Authorization Number (RA#) in the event that further communication is required.
Return Authorization Number (RA#):
Date product was sent:
______________________________
______________________________
Contact Information
Audiobahn Headquarters
114 South Berry St.
Brea, CA 92821
Phone (800)488-8595 Fax. (714)988-0433
Pacific Coast Time : 9am-5pm Mon. - Fri.
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