This symbol is intended to
alert the user to the presence
of uninsulat ed “dan gerou s
voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
IMPORTANT! FOR YOUR PROTECTION, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:
WATER AND MOISTURE: Appliance should not be used near water (near a bathtub, washbowl,
kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc). Care should be taken
so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
POWER SOURCES: The product should be connected to a power supply only of the type
described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or
polarization is not defeated.
POWER CORD PROTECTION: Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely
to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to
cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
SERVICING: The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
FUSING: If your unit is equipped with a fuse receptacle, replace only with the same type fuse.
Refer to replacement text on the unit for correct fuse type.
This symbol is
intended to alert the
user to the presence
of important operating
and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Your Carvin product is guaranteed against failure for 3 YEARS unless otherwise stated. Carvin
will service and supply all parts at no charge to the customer providing the unit is under warranty. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. CARVIN DOES NOT PAY FOR
PARTS OR SERVICING OTHER THAN OUR OWN. A COPY OF THE ORIGINAL INVOICE IS
REQUIRED TO VERIFY YOUR WARRANTY. Carvin assumes no responsibility for horn drivers
or speakers damaged by this unit. This warranty does not cover, and no liability is assumed,
for damage due to: natural disasters, accidents, abuse, loss of parts, lack of reasonable care,
incorrect use, or failure to follow instructions. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties,
expressed or implied. No representative or person is authorized to represent or assume for
Carvin any liability in connection with the sale or servicing of Carvin products.
NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
SERVICE:
In the USA, please go to www.carvinservice.com
Outside the USA, contact your dealer or go to http://www.carvinworld.com for your nearest
service center. Include a written description of the problem with serial number and date
of purchase.
MAINTAINING YOUR EQUIPMENT
Avoid spilling liquids or allowing any other foreign matter inside the unit. The panel of your
unit can be wiped from time to time with a dry or slightly damp cloth in order to remove dust
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (EUROPEAN)
The conductors in the AC power cord are colored in accordance with the following code.
GREEN & YELLOW—Earth BLUE—Neutral BROWN—Live
U.K. MAIN PLUG WARNING: A molded main plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe.
NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT MAIN PLUG
INTO A POWER SOCKET.
TS 1/4” Unbalanced
Tip-Sleeve
XLR
TipSleeve
Ring
Tip
Ground
TRS 1/4” Balanced
Tip-Ring-Sleeve
1 GND
3 - SIGNAL (BAL.)
2 + SIGNAL (BAL.)
Sleeve
Ring
Tip
Neg.
Pos.
Ring
Tip
Ground
and bring back the new look.
ments (salt air). When used in such an environment, be sure the amplifier is adequately
protected by rack, covers, etc..
2+
2-
1-
1+
Twist-Lok
Housing
MIN IMPEDANCE
DCM2000L/DCM2500L/DCM3000L and DCM3800L minimum is 2 ohm per channel and 4 ohm bridged.
DCM1540L minimum is 4 ohms per channel and 8 ohms bridged.
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
per channel
INPUT INPUT
INPUT
BRIDGE
OUTPUT
2
1
speaker imp.
8 ohm
speaker imp.
8 ohm
speaker imp.
8 ohm
speaker imp.
8 ohm
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
1
speaker imp.
8 ohm
speaker imp.
8 ohm
speaker imp.
8 ohm
speaker imp.
8 ohm
per channel
BRIDGE
1
speaker imp.
4 ohm
speaker imp.
4 ohm
INPUT INPUT
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
INPUT
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
OUTPUT
2
1
speaker imp.
speaker imp.
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
2
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
2
4 ohm
4 ohm
As with all pro gear, avoid prolonged use in caustic environ-
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
Solder tinned wires 1/4"
Strip cable insulation back 3/4"
• Slip "Securing Hub" then "Cable Clamp" over cable before attaching wires.
• Connection Configuration:
Black (1+) / positive
White (1-) / negative
Red (2+) / positive
Green (2-) / negative
• Solder wires in contacts or use hex screws provided.
Contact
Insert
Bridged
BRIDGE
1
INPUT INPUT
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
INPUT
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
OUTPUT
2
speaker imp.
4 ohm
1
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL! THIS UNIT CONTAINS HIGH
VOLTAGE INSIDE!
Cable
Clamp
2
Mixed Impedance
4 ohm CH1, 8 ohm CH2
BRIDGE
1
INPUT INPUT
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
INPUT
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
OUTPUT
2
speaker imp.
1
8 ohm
2
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
speaker imp.
4 ohm
CARVIN SHALL
Securing
Hub
CARVIN ENGINEERING DATA
HD1000, HD1500, HD2000
HD1500
The HD power amps deliver exceptional sound/reliability, ultra-light weight
9lb (4.1kg) and it’s made in the USA. You’ll appreciate the ultra-light feature,
which comes in part from its heavy-duty aluminum frame. High power, uncompromised sound and maximum reliability is at its best for both touring
systems and fixed installations. The concert stage is the ultimate test of professional audio. Concert audio has to be uncompromising, reliable and efficient
and that’s where the HD performs night after night, year after year. The HD is an
American made workhorse backed by 40 years of manufacturing excellence.
HIGH POWER TOPOLOGY
The CLASS D topology features high current MOSFET output devices produceing huge output currents when needed while delivering high slew rate performance for crystal clear highs and chest pounding bass – every note is vibrant,
pure and natural. The HD’s headroom reveals its high dynamic power from
the Switchmode power supply that operates at 100,000 Hz. The high efficient
Switchmode supply is a league above toroids saving not only AC power from
the wall but reducing internal heat. The HD easily handles the most difficult
mismatched or reactive loads and is AC generator friendly. The soft-start gently
turns the HD on to prevent tripping AC breakers.
COOL EFFICIENT DESIGN
The Class D output design raises power amp efficiency to the xtreme. The high
efficiency heat transfer system offers the most advanced cooling. Together
these features are the keys to the HD high reliable power. The internal aluminum
heat sink is nearly running cool with just convection, but the added multi-speed
fan keeps it cool and runs quiet under 2 ohms loads in high power operation.
Air is pulled from the rear and exhausted to the front to keep the rear of your
rack cool.
FRONT PANELS & CONNECTING UP
The HD Series feature front panel signal ladder, peak, protect, and bridge LEDs
which let you monitor the status of the amp fast. Both channels use detente
level controls allowing you to see your settings at a glance. Balanced TRS & XLR
input connectors are used to eliminate hum & noise. Speaker outputs feature
heavy-duty binding posts, and combo Speakon™ and 1/4” jacks.
The rear professional accessory group offers a PARALLEL input switch connects
the inputs together eliminating Y cables for patching multiple amp systems. The
accessory group also features a BRIDGE MODE switch to deliver twice the power
into a “mono” load or a 70V distribution system, and a 100HZ 18DB/OCT LOW
PASS CROSSOVER switch for each channel for fast Subwoofer setups.
CONSTRUCTION
The HD construction starts with a heavy 2RU aluminum chassis. All printed circuit
cards are double-sided FR4 military-grade fire retardant with plated through holes
- soldered under, on top and through each component. SMT - surface mount
technology offers “shock-proof” protection. The CB and CE safety seal assure that
each HD meets strict standards for service anywhere in the world. Auto switches
from 120VAC 60Hz or 240VAC 50Hz - no manual switch to change.
OPERATING MANUAL
RECEIVING INSPECTION—read before getting started
INSPECT YOUR UNIT FOR ANY DAMAGE which may have occurred during shipping. If any
damage is found, please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.
SAVE THE CARTON & ALL PACKING MATERIALS. In the event you have to re-ship your
unit, always use the original carton and packing material. This will provide the best possible
protection during shipment. CARVIN and the shipping company are not liable for any damage
caused by improper packing.
SAVE YOUR INVOICE. It will be required for warranty service if needed in the future.
SHIPMENT SHORTAGE. If you find items missing, they may have been shipped separately.
Please allow several days for the rest of your order to arrive before inquiring.
RECORD THE SERIAL NUMBER on the enclosed warranty card for your records. Keep your
portion of the card and return the portion with your name and comments to us.
USA customers register online at: www.carvin.com/registration
All other countries register online at: www.carvinworld.com/registration
HD POWER AMP SPECIFICATIONS:
MODEL HD1000 HD1500 HD2000
1 Channel RMS Continuous
8Ω (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 200w 300w 400w
4Ω (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 350w 500w 600w
2Ω (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 600w 800w 1000w
Both Channels RMS Continuous
8Ω (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 160w/160w 210/210w 260w/260w
4Ω (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 280w/280w 400/400w 500w/500w
2Ω (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 500w/500w 700/700w 850w/850w
Bridged RMS Continuous
8Ω, (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 560w 800w 1000w
4Ω, (20-20k Hz, <1.0%) 1000w 1400w 1700w
All ratings EIA 1% THD at 1 kHz
4Ω Bridge (peak power) 1400w 2000w 2350w
Net Weight:
Topology: CLASS D
THD (20-20k Hz 50% power) 0.1%, (20-20k Hz 90% power) 0.2%
Power Supply: Switchmode
Damping Factor: >500
Slew Rate: bridged mode >50v/µs
Sensitivity: (4 ohm rated power) 1.0 V
Signal to Noise Ratio: above 106dB
Frequency Response: +0/ -3 db 20Hz - 20kHz
Input Impedance: >20K Ω, balanced
Protection Circuits: Short Circuit • No Load Protection • SpeakerGuard™ • Thermal Shut-Off • Mute On/Off
Control/Indicators:
Front: Power switch • Recessed detente attenuators • Signal LED -30dB • 40% & 80% output LEDs • Clip LED
• Protect LED • Power LED • Bridge LED
Rear: Parallel Input Switch • Speaker Output Bridge Switch • Channel 1 and 2 100Hz crossover switches •
Input Connectors: Balanced XLR & 1/4” • Speaker Output Connectors: Dual heavy duty binding posts, two
Speakon™ & 1/4” combo connectors
Internal Fuse: SLOW BLOW HD1500: 10A,
Dimensions: 2U rack units: 3 1/2” High x 19” Wide x 10.5” Depth; 8.8 x 48.3 x 26.7cm
9 lbs (4.1kgs) 9 lbs (4.1kgs) 9 lbs (4.1kgs)
76-01600B 0512
FRONT & REAR PANEL CONTROLS
Right Full Range
For (stereo) the PARALLEL
switch must be OFF (OUT).
Left (Mono) Full Range
Ch 1 Left
Ch 2 Right
BRIDGE switch
must be OFF (OUT).
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
BRIDGE
OUTPUT
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
INPUT
INPUT INPUT
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
1
2
1
2
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
BRIDGE
OUTPUT
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
INPUT
INPUT INPUT
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
1
2
1
2
HD1500
PARALLEL
switch must be OFF (OUT).
Ch 1 Low Frequencies
Ch 2 High Frequencies
BRIDGE switch
must be OFF (OUT).
4-pin Speakon
2-pin
2-pin
8
7
FRONT PANEL
1. POWER SWITCH
Check the power amp AC making sure the rear plug is fully inserted before engaging the
power switch.The blue POWER LED indicates that all circuits are properly powered up.
2. FRONT PANEL BRIDGE LED INDICATOR
For fast front pannel indication of bridge mode or not. When the yellow LED is lit
the amplifier is in bridge mode. See 11 (rear panel) for more about bridge mode.
3. PROTECT RED LED INDICATOR
The RED PROTECT LED provides the operator with information about the status of
the amplifier. The PROTECT LED can come on under 3 different conditions (when this
happens, both channels are muted and the amplifier shut down to protect the speakers);
1) During power-up, the amplifier stays in a muted state for approx. 3 sec until
it determines that everything is functioning normally (no output shorts or over
temp conditions).
2) The RED PROTECT LED will illuminate when the output load draws excessive
current or a direct short is detected caused by a shorted speaker cable or speaker
system. When the short is removed the amplifier will resume operation. Check
for shorted cables and that the total speaker impedance is not below 2 ohms per
channel - 4 ohms bridged.
3) Overheating is usually determined when the amp stops in the middle of a
performance and the RED PROTECT LED comes on. If this is the cause, leave
the amp on for the fan to cool the amp down. The amp will automatically reset
within 3 minutes. The PROTECT LED will turn off when ready. Check for the
following conditions; a) The rear intake air is not restricted, b) The intake air
is not extremely warm, c) The front exhaust vents are not restricted, or d) No
excessive speaker load (try other speakers or remove speakers if you have more
than one connected to each channel).
Power supply protections are not indicated by the protection LED, but by the power
turning off completely. If the protected state is a thermal power supply issue or an
over current power supply issue, the power supply with reset it self and go through
the same turn on cycle as when first turned on.
4. CHANNEL LEVEL CONTROL
A precision input LEVEL attenuator is used to adjust the volume levels. To deliver the
amps maximum power without reducing the headroom of the signal source, the level
controls should be turned full on. For multi-speaker systems, the volume levels can be
used to match loudspeakers with different output sensitivity levels and room locations.
5. CHANNEL SIGNAL INDICATOR, 40% & 80% OUTPUT
You have a 3 meter segment per channel to indicate levels. The green SIGNAL LED
indicator will start to flash when there is a low input signal (-30dBµ). The 40% and 80%
LED’s will light solid when output power has reached 40% and 80% levelsof full power.
6. CHANNEL CLIP INDICATOR
The RED CLIP LED indicators flash when each channel has reached its maximum
output. Occasional flashing caused by low frequency peaks are difficult to prevent and
will not harm speakers capable to handle the amplifiers output. However, consistent
flashing (excessive clipping/square wave) will damage speakers if not reduced. This
does not cause damage to the amp.
7. COOLING VENTS/FAN
Upon rack installation, the rear of the amp must be fully exposed to room temperature
air. The surrounding air should not be warmer than 120° with full loading and heavy
usage, or the thermal protection could active early. The front cooling vents are not to
be restricted. Air flows from back to front. The use of external fans need to flow the
same direction or the amplifier will starve for air and may thermal off.
2
3
4
56
1456
WARNING
This product produces high
sound pressure levels that could
damage your hearing. Use with
REAR PANEL
8. CHANNEL INPUTS
The XLR balanced inputs will help reduce signal interference and allow longer cable
runs from your signal source (mixer, etc). Because this is a balanced input, the gain
will be 6 dB higher than using an unbalanced 1/4” cable on the 1/4” TRS input jacks.
XLR pin configuration: Pin 1: Ground, Pin 2: positive balanced signal, Pin 3: negative
balanced signal.
The 1/4” TRS jacks are balanced and designed to receive unbalanced input signals.
Balanced signals coming into these jacks should be wired with the connector’s tip
going to signal + and the connector’s ring to signal -. The connector’s sleeve is tied
internally to ground.
9. PARALLEL “Y” INPUTS
The rear PARALLEL switch connects both channels together from either input. This
eliminates Y adapter cables. This feature is used to “daisy chain” one piece of equipment to another. Just plug into the unused INPUT (TRS or XLR) and it will become the
output for other equipment.
10. 100Hz LOW PASS FILTER SWITCHES
Each channel has a third order (18DB/oct)100Hz Low pass filter subwoofer crossover.
This makes it easy to add subwoofers to your system. In Bridge mode the channel
one low pass filter can still be used for full amplfiier power into a single bridged sub.
11. BRIDGE MODE
With your amplifier off, push “in” the rear (recessed) BRIDGE switch then make your
connections to the RED binding posts (ch 1 is + and ch 2 is-). In bridged mode, the
amplifier channels are out-of-phase from each other. Accidental pressing of the switch
will not cause damage, but the outputs will be out of phase and channel 2 input will
take in signal. WARNING: No other speaker connectors or binding posts may be used
at the same time! Use channel 1 INPUT and LEVEL for bridge mode. Channel 2 is not
used, except for parallel to another amplifier (see 9 PARALLEL). The minimum speaker
impedance is 4 ohm. CAUTION: The power developed by bridging your amp can
destroy most speakers.
12. SPEAKER 1/4” AND SPEAKON™ COMBO OUTPUTS
The speaker connectors feature a combination of both 1/4” SPEAKER jacks for low
power applications and Speakon™ connectors for high power application. Secure the
Speakon™ connection by turning to the right to the lock position. Turn the amp off
before connecting your speakers.
13. SPEAKER BINDING POSTS
For wire (banana connectors), use the rear BINDING POSTS to connect your speakers.
Wire sizes up to 7 gauge (50 amps) can be inserted into the binding post “side holes”.
Larger cable can be used with “banana” plugs which plug into the end of the binding posts.
Binding posts are spaced on ISO standards.
For BRIDGE speaker connections (see 11 BRIDGE MODE).
14. AC POWER Your amp is designed to auto switch to either 120V 60 Hz or 240V
50Hz. The voltage range for 120V is 95V to 132V and for 240V is 195V to 255V. The rear
heavy-duty AC receptacle will accept a universal grounded AC cord. Be sure to check
your power source before plugging into a grounded (3 prong) outlet. Firmly push the
AC cord all the way into the receptacle or the amp will not function. WARNING: Never
defeat the grounded connection or electrocution may result! FUSE: The fuse is located
within the main chassis near the AC connector on the PC card. Normaly if the fuse fails,
the amp will require service. See specifications chart for fuse values. NOTE: Each amp
will require a dedicated circuit breaker for the amp to achieve its full output.
caution.
14
13
11
9
10
12
Bridged Mono
Using the internal 100Hz crossover into a single sub bridged,
press the channel one 100Hz switch.
Typical STereo SeTup (or mono bi-amp)
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
1
Use either the
Bridged Speakon™
connector or the
binding posts. No
other connections
can be used while in
Bridged mode.
To signal socket XLR or 1/4" 2 or 3 cond. shielded
INPUT INPUT
BRIDGE
2
Ch 1 Input
Activate the BRIDGE switch
(IN). Control the level by Ch 1
(Ch 2 does not function.)
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
INPUT
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
OUTPUT
1
PARALLEL switch OFF (OUT).
2
Single speaker or
system connected
in BRIDGE mode.
Minimum imp. 4
BiaMping MUST USE AN ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER OR SPEAKER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM TO SEPARATE HIGH AND LOW FREQUENCIES
Ch 2 High Frequencies
Ch 1 Low Frequencies
PARALLEL
switch must be OFF (OUT).
HD1500
8 OHM 300W/CH - 900W BRIDGE
4 OHM 450W/CH - 1500W BRIDGE
2 OHM (MIN) 750W/CH
120-240VAC 50/60Hz 1000VA
1
4-pin Speakon
LEFT
BRIDGE
INPUT INPUT
PARALLEL100Hz BRIDGE
INPUT
OUTPUT
2
2-pin
BRIDGE switch
must be OFF (OUT).
SPEAKONS™ ACCEPT 1/4 INCH JACKS
1
2
2-pin
RIGHT
HELPFUL HINTS
1) NO SOUND FROM CH 2: The rear (recessed) BRIDGE
switch has been inadvertently pushed in.
2) STEREO CHANNELS SOUND THE SAME: The rear
PARALLEL switch has been inadvertently pushed in.
3) NO HIGH FREQUENCIES: Tweeters or midrange drivers have
been damaged or blown from feedback or to much power.
4) POOR SOUND (BASS): The speaker systems are wired out
of phase to each other. To correct, check polarity and if necessary reverse the wires on one speaker connector only and
your sound, especially the bass will improve.
5) DEDICATED CIRCUIT BREAKER: Each amp will require
a dedicated circuit breaker for its full output. There will be
a sustained loss of power if the AC voltage falls below the
rated 120V or 230/240V input. Normally a 2000w amp or
higher would require its own 20 amp circuit to deliver its
full power at 2 ohms/channel or 4 ohms bridged.
7
W