Clark Synthesis TA1501C User Manual

Owner’s Manual

TA1501C Clark Synthesis Amplifier

Table of Contents

PROFESSIONAL

INSTALLERS:

QUICK SETUP

INSTRUCTIONS

ON PAGE 13!

NOTE: READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE

OPERATING THE AMPLIFIER. FAILURE
TO FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS
MANUAL MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE
AMPLIFIER AND/OR THE SOUND EQUIPMENT
BEING POWERED BY THE AMPLIFIER.

Company Overview

Warranty

Safety Instructions

Product Introduction

Unpacking Your Amplier

Product Overview

Setting Up Your Amplier

Operating Your Amplier

Specications

Troubleshooting

Glossary of Terms

Index

Contact Information

2
3
4
5
6

7
13
20
22
23
24
26
28

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TA1501C Amplier

2

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Thank you for purchasing a Clark Synthesis Tactile Sound Amplier! We are condent this product will be a
welcome addition to your audio system.

For many years, Clark Synthesis has been providing Tactile Sound Transducers for use in home theaters,

listening rooms, outdoor decks, military simulators, theme park attractions, game chairs, professional music,

and swimming pools. With such a variety of products, it is likely that Clark Synthesis has the right type of
transducer for your application.

Because Clark Synthesis transducers require amplication to operate properly, we offer the TA1501C
amplier. The TA1501C is designed for a wide variety of uses, including home theater, professional music,
and outdoor living applications.

With a focus on providing complementary products that provide quality sound and professional-grade
performance, Clark Synthesis is committed to designing products that will take your audio experience to
the next level. We are glad you chose a Clark Synthesis TA1501C amplier and we hope that you will enjoy
many years of listening enjoyment using our products.

The Clark Synthesis products shown below can be powered with the TA1501C Amplier.

TST429 Platinum Transducer TST329 Gold Transducer

TST239 Silver Transducer

AW339 All-Weather Transducer

AQ339 Aquasonic

Underwater Speaker

TA1501C Amplier

3

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WARRANTY

United States Warranty and Return Policy

TA1501C CLARK SYNTHESIS AMPLIFIER WARRANTY

Clark Synthesis, Inc. warranties the TA1501C Amplifer to be free from defects and workmanship under normal use for a period of two (2) years from
date of original purchase.

Should warranty service be necessary, Clark Synthesis, Inc. will (at its discretion) repair or replace the defective merchandise with equivalent
merchandise at no charge.

This warranty is valid for the original purchaser and is not extended to subsequent owners. Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to
a period of the express warranty as provided herein beginning with the date of the original purchase at retail, and no warranties, whether expressed or
implied, shall apply to this product thereafter. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties; therefore these exclusions may not apply to
you. This warranty gives you specic legal rights; however, you may have other rights that vary from state to state.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

This warranty is valid only if the product is used for the purpose for which it was designed. It does not cover the following:

Damage caused by excessive heat•
Damage through negligence, misuse, accident, or abuse•
Damage caused by incorrectly connecting the amplier to an output device or an electrical source•
Freight damage•
Items repaired by an unauthorized repair facility•
Items purchased from unauthorized individuals or dealers•
Cost of shipping product to Clark Synthesis, Inc.•
Return shipping on non-defective items•

RETURN POLICY

New, unused items purchased from us may be returned within 7 days of the purchase date. Please note: Clark Synthesis will only accept returns
for items that are received in their original packaging, in undamaged and re-sellable (new) condition. Manuals, accessories, warranty cards, and
everything else that came with the unit must be included as well. If your return does not meet these conditions, you will be charged a 15% restocking
fee or have the merchandise returned to you at your expense. Non-defective merchandise can also be returned for a 15% restocking fee. Shipping
charges for all non-defective returns or exchanges are not refundable.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED WARRANTY OR SERVICE

If it becomes necessary for you to return defective merchandise, call Clark Synthesis Customer Service at [phone] and you will be given a
Return Authorization Number. Follow the instructions provided by our customer service staff, use suitable packing materials (preferably the original
shipping boxes), and make sure to write your Return Authorization Number on the outside of your box when sending your return to us. Orders that are
returned without an Return Authorization Number may be refused by our returns department! Remember to include a dated proof of purchase from
an authorized dealer. Return freight must be prepaid by the customer: items received freight collect will be refused. If the returned product is found to
contain a manufacturing defect not caused by the customer and a replacement product is sent to the customer, Clark Synthesis, Inc. will pay to ship
the replacement product to a domestic location (within the USA) via ground shipping methods. Costs associated with a) shipping replacement products
intended to replace defective merchandise not caused by a manufacturing defect, b) replacement products shipped outside the USA, or c) replacement
products shipped via shipping methods other than ground shipping will be paid for by the customer.

Make sure the following is included in your package:

• Product to be returned (repacked in original shipping containers)

• Return Authorization Number printed on the outside of the box

• Copy of original invoice with Return Authorization Number printed on it

Return to our Service Department:

RA#: _______________
Clark Synthesis, Inc.
8020 Southpark Circle, Suite 600
Littleton, Colorado 80120

INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY

Contact your International Clark Synthesis dealer or distributor concerning specic procedures for your country’s warranty policies.

www.clarksynthesis.com

TA1501C Amplier

4

!

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS.1.
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.2.
HEED ALL WARNINGS.3.
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS.4.
DO NOT USE THIS AMPLIFIER NEAR WATER.5.
CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.6.
DO NOT BLOCK ANY VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE 7.

MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
DO NOT INSTALL NEAR HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT REGISTERS, STOVES, OR 8.

OTHER EQUIPMENT.
DO NOT DEFEAT THE SAFETY PURPOSE OF THE POLARIZED OR GROUNDING TYPE PLUG- 9. A

polarized plug has two blades, with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t into
your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

PROTECT THE POWER CORD FROM BEING WALKED ON OR PINCHED, PARTICULARLY AT THE 10.
POINTS NEAREST THE OUTLET AND WHERE THE CORD ENTERS THE AMPLIFIER.

ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS OR ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER.11.
USE ONLY WITH A CART, STAND, TRIPOD, BRACKET, OR TABLE SPECIFIED BY THE 12.

MANUFACTURER OR SOLD WITH THE AMPLIFIER. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart

to avoid damaging the amplier.

UNPLUG THE AMPLIFIER DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN UNUSED FOR LONG 13.
PERIODS OF TIME.

REFER ALL SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. 14. Servicing is required when the amplier has been

damaged in any way, such as the power supply cord has been damaged, liquid has been spilled/objects have fallen
into the amplier, the amplier has been exposed to rain or moisture, the amplier does not operate normally, or the
amplier has been dropped.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE 15.
THIS AMPLIFIER TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DO NOT EXPOSE TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING. DO NOT PLACE OBJECTS FILLED WITH 16.
LIQUID, SUCH AS VASES, ON THIS AMPLIFIER.

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE TOP OR BOTTOM COVERS. NO USER 17.
SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS EQUIPMENT FROM THE AC MAINS, DISCONNECT THE 18.
POWER SUPPLY CORD PLUG FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE. THE MAINS PLUG OF THE POWER
SUPPLY CORD SHALL REMAIN READILY OPERABLE.

THE EXCLAMATION POINT WITHIN THE EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE IS INTENDED 19.
TO ALERT THE USER TO THE PRESENCE OF IMPORTANT OPERATING AND
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS.

THE LIGHTNING BOLT TRIANGLE IS INTENDED TO ALERT THE USER TO THE RISK 20.
OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.

SPECIAL SAFTEY CONSIDERATION FOR THE AQUASONIC SWIMMING POOL 21.
SPEAKER: WHEN USING THE TA1501C AMPLIFIER WITH THE CLARK SYNTHESIS AQUASONIC
SWIMMING POOL SPEAKER, WE RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING:

- The amplier must be plugged into a GFI-protected outlet.

- Use an isolation transformer. Contact Clark Synthesis for more information.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

!

TA1501C Amplier

5

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PRODUCT INTRODUCTION

OVERVIEW OF THE AMPLIFIER

The TA1501C amplier is the rst audio amplier designed exclusively for use with Clark Synthesis
transducers. This amplier incorporates the latest digital technology and provides features not available on
many ampliers. Please read this manual in its entirety so you can get the maximum enjoyment from your
Clark Synthesis product(s).

USING THIS AMPLIFIER WITH A CLARK SYNTHESIS TRANSDUCER

The TA1501C amplier works with all Clark Synthesis transducers. This manual outlines how to use this
amplier with our transducers.

CAUTION: This amplier is designed to provide power to one (1) transducer.

!

Please note, the TA1501C can provide more continuous power than the transducer can handle. Why do we
do this? Special effects audio signals often contain peaks that require extra power to be delivered to the
transducer. This amplier will supply those peaks without damaging the transducer, providing you, the user,
with a true Tactile Sound experience.

FEATURES

The Clark Synthesis TA1501C Amplier has the following features:

Class D design for powerful, clean sound•
All-metal cabinet•
Crisp, clean, and compact body design•
Built-in Crossover Control that enables control of the cutoff point from • 40 Hz to 400 Hz
Bypass control that disables the Crossover Control, allowing the amplier to reproduce full-frequency audio•
Front LED that indicates the amplier is connected to AC power•

• Auto/On saves power by turning the amplier stage on only when an audio signal is present
Powered • loop-through allows you to connect multiple ampliers together to a single audio source
Stereo inputs allow you to connect the amplier to multiple sources. The audio is automatically combined •
inside the amplier.
IEC-601 • Connector allows you to use a power cord other than the power cord supplied. This is especially
helpful if you live in a country that requires a different AC plug.
Amplier automatically runs on AC power from 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz•
The audio input section works with high-level and low-level line signals. This feature permits the amplier •
to work with studio-level and consumer-level audio signals

• 5-way binding posts for connecting the transducer wires

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TA1501C Amplier

6

UNPACKING YOUR AMPLIFIER

PACKAGE CONTENTS

Please remove the amplier and accessories from the carton. You should have the following:

(1) TA1501C Amplier•
(1) AC Power Cord•
(4) Amplier • Feet
(1) • Y Adapter Cable (Color may vary from the image shown here)
(1) Operating Manual•

CONTACT INFORMATION IF PARTS ARE MISSING

If you are missing any items, please contact Clark Synthesis at 1-800-898-1945.

We recommend that you save the original carton to use if you ever have to ship the amplier.

WARNING: Before you set up this amplier, make sure you read and observe the Important Safety
Instructions in this manual.

!

TA1501C Amplier

7

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PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Front Panel

Rear Panel

Ventilation Threaded Foot Hole

Vents

Threaded

Foot Hole

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TA1501C Amplier

8

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Front Panel Overview

Gain (Volume) Control

Crossover (X-Over) Control

Auto/On Switch

Low Pass/Bypass

Switch

Power Indicator Light

TA1501C Amplier

9

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PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Front Panel Overview

GAIN (VOLUME) CONTROL

The Gain (Volume) Control on the face of the TA1501C amplier controls the degree to which the
input signal is amplied. The gain level, combined with the level of the input signal, determines
the actual volume output.

CROSSOVER (X-OVER) CONTROL

The Crossover Control on the face of the TA1501C amplier controls the range of low-frequency
(bass) sound sent to the output device, i.e. transducer, speaker, etc. This control is only
functional when the Low Pass/Bypass Switch is in the “Low Pass” position. The range of low­frequency sound controlled by this dial is 40 Hz to 400 Hz.

AUTO/ON SWITCH

The Auto/On Switch allows the user to place the amplier into either Auto On/Standby mode or
On.

When the switch is set to “Auto” and no input signal is received by the amplier, the amplier
stage will power down and go into Standby mode. Upon sensing an input signal, the amplier will
power on automatically.

When the switch is set to “On,” the amplier will remain powered on, regardless of whether an
input signal is present or not.

LOW PASS/BYPASS SWITCH

The Low Pass/Bypass Switch enables and disables the Crossover function and control dial
of the amplier. When the switch is in the “Low Pass” position, the amplier only passes low­frequency sounds. When the switch is in the “Bypass” position, the amplier passes the full
range of audio frequencies.

POWER INDICATOR (LED)

The Power Indicator LED displays the power mode. If the LED is:

RED- The amplier is plugged into AC power and the power switch on the back of the •
amplier is switched to “On.” If the Auto/On switch is set to “Auto,” a red LED indicates no
audio input signal has been received by the amplier.
GREEN- The amplier is plugged into AC power and the power switch on the back of the •
amplier is switched to “On.” If the Auto/On switch is set to “Auto,” a green LED indicates an
audio input signal is being received by the amplier, or, if the Auto/On switch is set to “On,”
the amplier is on.

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TA1501C Amplier

10

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Rear Panel Overview

AC Power Switch

Audio Input/Output Connectors

High/Low Input Signal Switch

AC Power Cord Connector

(IEC-601)

Transducer

Connector

TA1501C Amplier

11

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PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Rear Panel Overview

AC POWER SWITCH

The AC Power Switch controls the AC power to the amplier. The round circle on the switch
represents “OFF” and the line represents “ON.” This switch works independently from the Auto/
On Switch, which is discussed in the Front Panel Overview section.

AUDIO INPUT/OUTPUT CONNECTORS

The Audio Input/Output Connectors accept standard RCA plugs. These connectors are split into
Left and Right channels, as indicated by L and R on the panel. The Left and Right sides each
have one Audio Out and one Audio IN.

HIGH/LOW INPUT SIGNAL SWITCH

The High/Low Switch allows the user to select the voltage level of the audio input source. For
example, if the input source is a standard home theater or stereo receiver, the switch should be
set to “High.” If the input source is an MP3 player or portable CD player, the switch should be
set to “Low.” For any other type of input source, begin by using the “High” setting. If you are not
receiving enough output, try the “Low” setting.

AC POWER CORD CONNECTOR (IEC-601)

The AC Power Cord Connector is an adaptable connector that allows users to connect
IEC-601 compatible AC cords to the amplier. This type of connector is especially benecial
for international compatibility. The connector also houses a fuse used to protect the unit from
surges.

TRANSDUCER CONNECTOR

The Transducer Connector is used to connect the transducer to the amplier. This connector
uses 5-way binding posts, which allow for a variety of ways to connect the transducer wire (see
“Connecting the Transducer to the Amplier” on page 18).

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TA1501C Amplier

12

SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

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TA1501C Amplier

13

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SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Quick Setup Instructions

The following instructions are a quick overview of the steps necessary to install your new
amplier. For more detailed instructions, please refer to the sections in the manual that are
referenced below.

Remove the amplier from its package (for package contents, see “Unpacking Your 1.
Amplier” on page 6).

Insure you have set the amplier to the following settings: 2.

• AC Power Switch is set to “Off”

• Gain (Volume) Control is set to “Min”

• High/Low Input Signal Switch is set to “High”

For more detail on these settings, including pictures, see “Initial Settings Prior to
Making Connections” on page 14.

Install the amplier 3. feet if you are installing on a at surface. Do not install the feet if
you are installing in a Clamping Rackshelf (see “Placing/Mounting the Amplier” and
“Mounting the Amplier(s) on a Clamping Rackshelf” on pages 14-15).

Connect the audio input source to the amplier. Insure you are connecting to both the 4.
Left and Right Input Connectors (see “Connecting the Audio Source” on page 16).

Connect the transducer to the amplier (see “Connecting the Transducer to the 5.
Amplier” on page 18).

If you using multiple TA1501C ampliers to run multiple transducers, connect the loop-6.
through connections using RCA cables (see “Using the Powered Loop-Through to Run
Multiple Transducers” on page 19).

Plug the AC Power Cord into an electrical outlet.7.

Once connected, turn your system on and 8. balance the sound (see “Balancing the
Transducer with the Subwoofer” on page 20).

Your system is now ready for use.9.

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TA1501C Amplier

14

SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Initial Settings Prior to Making Connections

CAUTION: Before connecting any wires or input/output lines, insure all equipment is
off and no signals are being sent from the input device.

!

In order to reduce the chances of accidentally damaging the amplier or transducer, please set the
amplier controls to the safety positions described and shown below:

Set the • AC Power Switch on the back of the amplier to the “Off” position (see photo #1)
Set the • Gain (Volume) Control to “Min” (completely counter-clockwise, see photo #2)
Set the • Input Signal Switch on the back of the amplier to the “High” position (see photo #3)

Photo #1

Placing/Mounting the Amplier

If you are placing the amplier on a at surface (not including mounting the amplier on a
Clamping Rackshelf), you must install the feet supplied with the amplier. Installing these feet will

!

help provide sufcient cooling to the bottom plate of the amplier.

To install the feet, follow the steps listed below:

Gently place the amplier on a non-abrasive surface with the bottom of the amplier •
facing up.
Hand thread one of the feet into a receiving hole, insuring the threads do not crossthread.•
When properly threaded, tighten the foot by hand until it is snug.•

CAUTION: Do not overtighten the feet. The bottom plate of the amplier is made of soft metal

!

and the threads can easily be stripped if the feet are improperly threaded or overtightened.

CAUTION: The bottom of the amplier can get hot. Do not place anything directly under the
amplier that is ammable or can be damaged by heat. Failure to install the feet may result in

!

damage to the amplier and/or the surface upon which it is sitting (not including a Rackshelf).

Photo #2

Photo #3

CAUTION: Insure there are two (2) inches of clearance around the sides and top of the amplier.

!

DO NOT block the top or side air vents.

TA1501C Amplier

15

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SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Mounting the Amplier(s) on a Clamping Rackshelf

Up to three (3) TA1501C Ampliers may be installed in a 2U rack space using a Clamping Rackshelf.

When mounting in a Clamping Rackshelf, DO NOT install the feet provided with the amplier. The
bottom of the amplier MUST be in full contact with the metal rackshelf.

CAUTION: Insure even spacing between the ampliers and the side walls of the shelf. This
will aid in providing adequate ventilation for the amplier(s).

!

CAUTION: To prevent overheating, insure the entire rack has adequate ventilation.

!

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TA1501C Amplier

16

SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Connecting the Audio Source

HOME THEATER

There are several different ways to hook up your system in terms of which source material (signal)
is delivered to the amplier(s) and transducer(s). Since our inception, we have discovered that
approximately half of our customers prefer using the LFE/SUB signal with their transducers. The other
half prefer using the Right Front (RF) and Left Front (LF) signals. Additionally, there are a few people
who like to use multiple signals concurrently. In the following instructions, we provide you with general
diagrams for each of these hookup methods.

LFE/SUB Hookup

The LFE, SUB, or Subwoofer output is the signal that you send to the subwoofer.

If your receiver has only one LFE/SUB/Subwoofer output port, connect a “Y” adapter to that output.
This will allow you to split the signal between the transducer and the subwoofer. To do this properly,
connect your subwoofer to one side of the “Y” adapter. Connect the TA1501C amplier to the other
side of the “Y” adapter. To reduce the amount of noise produced when using this signal, use another
“Y” adapter cable when connecting to the amplier. This will allow you to connect the signal into both
the Left and Right input connectors on the amplier.

L

R

Transducer Output

Transducer

OUT

Surround-Sound ReceiverTA1501C Amplier

IN

–

+

Y Adapter

Y Adapter

LFE/SUB

Subwoofer

To Input of

Powered

Subwoofer

TA1501C Amplier

17

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SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Right Front (RF) and Left Front (LF) Hookup

For this hookup, connect the RF and LF Pre-Amp Outputs to the TA1501C amplier inputs.

NOTE: Not all receivers have Pre-Amp outputs for the Right Front and Left Front outputs. If you
have a question about your receiver’s outputs, please consult your owner’s manual or contact your
receiver’s manufacturer.

TA1501C Amplier

L

R

OUT

IN

–

+

Transducer Output

Transducer

Multiple Signal Hookup

This conguration is a little more complicated. You will need a small mixer to make this work.
Connect the signals you want to use to the mixer input. Then, connect the mixer output to the
TA1501C amplier input using a “Y” adapter.

TA1501C Amplier

L

R

OUT

IN

Surround-Sound Receiver

Pre-Amp Audio Out

LF

Surround-Sound Receiver

Pre-Amp Audio Out

LF CENTER LFE/SUB

RF

RF

Transducer Output

Transducer

–

+

CH4CH3CH2CH1

OUTPUT

Mixer

Y Adapter

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TA1501C Amplier

18

SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Connecting the Transducer to the Amplier

If you are able to locate the amplier within 3 feet of the transducer (3 ft. is the approximate length of
the speaker wire attached to the transducer), connect the transducer wires directly to the amplier.
This can be done by unscrewing the wire binding posts, inserting the wire through the hole in the post
(see photo #1 on this page), and then retightening the binding posts (see photo #2). To insure you
have a secure connection, make sure the insulation on the wire does not get pinched when tightening
the cap on the binding post.

Photo #2Photo #1

NOTE: The 5-Way binding posts can be connected to in several ways. You can insert banana plugs
into the end of the posts, insert pin connectors or bare wire through the hole in the post (as shown in
photo #1), wrap bare wire around the posts and tighten the post caps, or install lug terminals around
the posts.

If you are unable to locate the amplier within 3 feet of the transducer, you will need to splice the
speaker wire coming out of the transducer with another comparable wire of the correct length. Once
spliced, attach the ends of the added wire to the amplier as discussed above.

NOTE: Our general wire size recommendations for additional wire are as follows:

0 to 25 feet, 16 AWG
25 to 50 feet, 14 AWG
50 to 75 feet, 12 AWG

TA1501C Amplier

19

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SETTING UP YOUR AMPLIFIER

Using the Powered Loop-Through

to Run Multiple Transducers

The TA1501C has powered loop-through. This feature enables the user to take the signal from an
audio source and pass it to a series of TA1501C ampliers in order to drive multiple transducers.

The drawing for this type of hookup is shown below. Use a standard “Y” adapter to get the signal from
the audio source (e.g., from the LFE/SUB output). If the input signal is coming from two ports (e.g.,
from the RF and LF outputs), the “Y” adapter is not needed. The wires from those connectors can be
connected directly to the “Audio In” connectors of the TA1501C.

Subsequent wiring between the ampliers can be done with single or paired wire connectors. The
wiring for the transducers is the same as that for a single transducer hookup (see “Connecting the
Transducer to the Amplier” on the previous page).

Audio Source

TA1501C Amplier #1TA1501C Amplier #2TA1501C Amplier #3

LLL

RRR

OUTOUTOUT INININ

–––

+++

Transducer OutputTransducer OutputTransducer Output

Transducer #1Transducer #2Transducer #3

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TA1501C Amplier

20

OPERATING YOUR AMPLIFIER

Balancing the Transducer with the Subwoofer

Once you have properly set up your amplier, it is important to take time to balance the transducer and
subwoofer sound. The volume of the transducer is controlled by the receiver and will rise or fall in direct
proportion to that of the primary speakers. This proportion is determined by both the volume setting on the
receiver and the gain setting on the TA1501C amplier.

NOTE: Some receivers have internal, automatic balancing systems. These systems rely on microphones
that sense the sound levels within the room. Since tactile sound transducers are heard through your body,
instead of through the air, automatic balancing systems may be ineffective when balancing the subwoofer
volume. We suggest using the following procedure, rather than activating the automatic balancing system.

STEPS:

Set the TA1501C 1. Power Switch on the back of the amplier to “OFF” (see photo #1 below).

Photo #1

If you are using a low-level signal, such as an MP3 player, set the 2. High/Low Switch to “LOW.” If you are
connecting to a high-level signal, such as an A/V receiver, set the switch to “HIGH.” (see photo #2).

Photo #2

Turn the 3. Gain Control counter-clockwise to the “MIN” position (see photo #3).

Photo #3

TA1501C Amplier

21

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OPERATING YOUR AMPLIFIER

If you are using the LFE/SUB signal as your input for the transducer, insure the 4. Low Pass/Bypass Switch
is set to “Low Pass” (see photo #4) and the Crossover Control on the TA1501C is set to 400 Hz (photo #5).
If you are using the RF/LF signal, set the switch to “Bypass.”

Photo #4

Select an action-based DVD and play your favorite action scene.5.
While the scene is playing, set your home theater speakers to a level equivalent to the maximum level 6.
where you would listen to them.
Stop the action scene from playing, leaving the volume setting at the level you just determined.7.
Turn the subwoofer volume on the powered subwoofer(s) all the way down.8.
Turn on the TA1501C AC 9. Power Switch on the back of the amplier.
Set the TA1501C 10. Auto/On Switch to “Auto” (see photo #6).

Photo #6

Playing your favorite action scene again, turn up the 11. Gain Control until you feel the action playing through
the transducer.

CAUTION: If you hear distortion from the transducer, immediately reduce the Gain level.

Photo #5

!

NOTE: If the TA1501C amplier is located some distance from the furniture, it may be helpful to have
someone else adjust the volume.

With the scene still playing, increase the subwoofer volume on the powered subwoofer(s) until the low 12.
frequency sound is balanced.
Finally, if using the LFE/SUB signal as the input for the transducer and you have selected the “Low Pass” 13.
setting, adjust the TA1501C Crossover and Gain Controls until the experience is at its peak.

NOTE: Some people are uncomfortable hearing dialogue through their bodies. Use the Crossover Control
to remove the dialogue from the audio signal by adjusting the Hz range reproduced by the amplier. This is
only possible if the amplier is set to “Low Pass,” which activates the Crossover Control.

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TA1501C Amplier

22

SPECIFICATIONS

General

Power Supply................................................................................................................100 – 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, Auto•

Standby Current (110 VAC / 220 VAC)....................................................................................................0.12 A / 0.11 A•

Max Current (110 VAC / 220 VAC)..............................................................................................................2.4 A / 1.1 A•

Total Amplier Efciency..........................................................................................................................................70%•

• Dimensions, without Feet (W x H x D).......................5.125 in x 2.75 in x 8.875 in (130.2 mm x 69.9 mm x 225.4 mm)

Dimensions, with • Feet (W x H x D)............................5.125 in x 3.25 in x 8.875 in (130.2 mm x 82.6 mm x 225.4 mm)

Weight................................................................................................................................................3.5 lbs. (1.588 kg)•

Fuse..............................................................................................................................................................T3AL 250V•

Input Section

Input Impedance...................................................................................................................................................16 kΩ•

Input Sensitivity (1 W, Input switch set to Low)...................................................................................................30 mV•

Input Sensitivity (1 W, Input switch set to High)................................................................................................100 mV•

Input Sensitivity (150 W, Input switch set to Low).............................................................................................360 mV•

Input Sensitivity (150 W, Input switch set to High)...................................................................................................1 V•

Loop Through Amplication.......................................................................................................................................x 1•

Auto-On..............................................................................................................................................Switch Selectable•

Crossover Section

• Crossover Frequency Selection.............................................................................................................40 Hz – 400 Hz

Crossover Frequency Selection (+ 0 dB, -3 dB)....................................................................................35 Hz – 420 Hz•

Amplier Section

• Output Power....................................................................................................................150 Watts RMS into 4 Ohms

Total Harmonic Distortion (at 1 Watt into 4Ω).......................................................................................................0.15%•

Total Harmonic Distortion (at 150 Watts into 4Ω).................................................................................................0.08%•

• Frequency Response..............................................................................................................................5 Hz to 36 kHz

Frequency Response (+0 dB, -3 dB)....................................................................................................28 Hz to 36 kHz•

5.125 in (130.2 mm) 7.375 in (187.3 mm)

3.25 in

(82.6 mm)

.5 in

(12.7 mm)

.625 in

(15.9 mm)

.875 in

(22.2 mm)

TA1501C Amplier

23

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TROUBLESHOOTING

Symptom Troubleshooting Question Remedy

No Power Is the power cord plugged into the wall? Plug the power cord into the wall.

Is the power cord plugged into the back of
the amplier?

Is the power switch on the back of the
amplier switched on?

Is the fuse blown? Replace the fuse with a fuse of the same

No Sound Is the transducer connected? Connect the transducer properly.

Is the input source connected to the

amplier input?

Is the source outputting a signal? Connect the source to another amplier

Is the Gain (Volume) Control turned up? Slowly turn up the Gain (Volume) Control.

Is the input signal from the source too

weak to turn on the amplier?

Did the transducer stop working? Turn the Gain Control down, wait a few

Plug the power cord into the back of the
amplier.

Switch on the power switch.

rating.

Connect the input source.

to verify the source is working.

Set the Auto/On Switch to “On.” If sound
is produced, set the switch back to “Auto”
and either increase the source volume or
set the input switch to “LOW.” Depending
on the source, it is possible you may have
to do both.

minutes, then try again.

Not Enough Sound Is the Gain (Volume) Control adjusted

properly?

Sound Comes and Goes Is the input signal from the source too

weak to turn on the amplier?

Did the transducer stop working? Turn the Gain Control down, wait a few

Output Contains High­frequency Material

NOTE: This assumes

you DO NOT want high­frequency material.

Output Does Not Contain
High-frequency Material

NOTE: This assumes you

DO want high-frequency
material.

Is the amplier set to Low Pass only? Set the Low Pass/Bypass Switch to “Low

Is the Crossover set correctly? (If using
the Low Pass setting)

Is the LFE/SUB signal connected to the
amplier input?

Is the amplier set to Bypass mode? Set the Low Pass/Bypass Switch to

Is the Crossover set correctly? (If using
the Low Pass setting)

Is a full-frequency signal connected to the
amplier input?

Turn up the source volume and the Gain
(Volume) Control or set the input switch to
“LOW.” You may need to do both.

See remedy for the same troubleshooting
question in “No Sound Output” (above).

minutes, then try again.

Pass.”

Turn the Crossover Control counter­clockwise to eliminate high frequency
material.

Connect the home theater receiver’s LFE/
SUB signal to the amplier’s input.

“Bypass.”

Turn the Crossover Control clockwise to
include more high-frequency material.

Connect the home theater receiver’s RF
and LF signals to the amplier’s input.

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TA1501C Amplier

24

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Term Denition

2U Rack Space With U (Unit), being a standard unit of measurement for audio/video racking

systems, a 2U rack is a standard rack that occupies 2 units within the rack
system. A 2U rack is 3.5 inches (88.9 mm) high.

Audio Input/Output Connectors Audio connectors on the amplier that receive or transmit the main signal.

Auto/On Switch The switch under the Gain Control that allows the user to place the amplier

into either Auto On/Standby mode or On.

When the switch is set to “Auto” and no input signal is received by the
amplier, the amplier will go into Standby mode. Upon sensing an input
signal, the amplier will power on automatically.

When the switch is set to “On,” the amplier will remain powered on,
regardless of whether an input signal is present or not.

Automatic Balancing System Included in some Home Theater Surround-Sound Receivers, this feature

uses microphones to measure room sound levels in order to properly
balance low, mid, and high level sound output from the receiver.

AWG Abbreviation for American Wire Gauge. Commonly used to designate wire

size. The smaller the AWG number, the larger the wire size.

Crossover (X-Over) Control The control on the face of the TA1501C amplier that controls the range

of low-frequency (bass) sound sent to the output device, i.e. transducer,
speaker, etc. This dial is only functional when the Low Pass/Bypass Switch
under the control is set to “Low Pass.” The range of low-frequency sound
that is controlled by this dial is 40 Hz to 400 Hz.

Gain Control The control on the face of the TA1501C amplier that controls the degree to

which the input signal is amplied. The gain level, combined with the level of
the input signal, determines the actual volume output.

High/Low Input Signal Switch A switch on the TA1501C that allows the user to use 1 V RMS or 316 mV

RMS inputs. Examples include a home theater receiver (“High” Level) vs. an
MP3 player (“Low” Level).

IEC-601 Connector An adaptable AC connector that allows users to connect IEC-601 compatible

AC cords to the amplier. This type of connector is especially benecial for
international compatibility.

TA1501C Amplier

25

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GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Term Denition

LFE/SUB Signal A low-frequency signal that is often associated with subwoofer (bass) sound.

Loop-through The ability to connect multiple amplifers to a single audio source.

Low Pass/Bypass Switch A switch on the TA1501C that enables and disables the Crossover function

of the amplier.

Multiple Signal Hookup Using multiple audio input signals, e.g., RF, LF, Center, and LFE/SUB

signals, as the source signal for the amplier. This type of hookup requires a
mixer.

Pre-Amp A low-voltage, internal amplier within audio receivers that prepares the

signal to be sent to a powered amplier.

Receiver As used in this manual, a receiver is a general term for the audio source. An

example would be a Home Theater Surround Sound Receiver.

RF/LF Signals Right Front and Left Front signals.

Tactile Sound A term used to describe the effect of hearing sound by making physical

contact with a surface that has been activated with an audio transducer.

Transducer (Audio) An audio device that reproduces sound by physically activating a resonant

surface.

X-Over Control (see denition under Crossover Control)

Y Adapter An adapter cable that takes an audio input signal from a single connector

and splits the signal so it can be sent to two connectors.

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TA1501C Amplier

26

INDEX

Symbols

5-Way binding post 5, 18

A

AC Power Cord Connector 5, 10, 11
AC Power Switch 10, 11, 13, 14, 20, 21, 23
Audio Input/Output Connectors 10, 11, 13, 16, 17, 19, 24
Auto/On Switch 5, 8, 9, 21, 23, 24

B

Balancing 13, 20

C

Contact Information 6
Crossover Frequency 5, 9, 21, 22, 23
Crossover (X-Over) Control 8, 9, 21, 23, 24

D

Dimensions 22

F

Features 5
Feet 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, 22
Frequency Response 22
Front Panel 7, 8, 9

G

Gain (Volume) Control 8, 9, 13, 14, 20, 21, 23, 24
Glossary 24

H

High/Low Input Signal Switch 10, 11, 13, 14, 20, 23, 24

I

IEC-601 Connector. See AC Power Cord Connector
Impedance 22

L

Left Front (LF) 25
LFE/SUB Hookup 16
Loop-Through 5
Low Pass/Bypass Switch 8, 9, 21, 23, 25

TA1501C Amplier

27

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M

Mixer 17
Mounting 14

Clamping Rackshelf 14, 15

Multiple Signal Hookup 17

P

Package Contents 6
Placing/Mounting 14
Power Indicator (LED) 8, 9
Power (Output) 22
Pre-Amp 17, 25

Q

Quick Setup Instructions 13

R

Rear Panel 7, 10, 11, 14, 20
Return Policy 3
RF/LF Hookup 17
Right Front (RF) 25

INDEX

S

Specications 22

T

Transducer Connector 10, 11, 18
Troubleshooting 23

W

Warranty 3

International Warranty 3

Wire size 18

Y

Y Adapter 6, 16, 17, 19

05/2008 Ver. 1 ©2008 Clark Synthesis, Inc.

For additional questions/concerns/issues, contact Clark Synthesis or visit our web site.

Clark Synthesis, Inc.
8020 Southpark Circle, Suite 600
Littleton, CO 80120
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web: www.clarksynthesis.com
Email: [email protected]

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