Owner’s Manual for 320QE, & 480QE
Four Channel Power Amplifiers
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Welcome
…to the Coustic world of power and clarity. These new Coustic QE Series 4-channel power amplifiers deliver the cleanest music you’ve ever heard at any power level in the 12-volt environment.
Besides their sleek contoured design, the new 320/480QE power amplifiers offer the latest and most sophisticated audio features. This booklet offers you a guided tour of all these exciting features. For the best sonic reproduction, please follow the installation suggestions and recommendations as closely as possible. The time you spend will prove to be worthwhile when you sit back and enjoy the high fidelity music!
To further explore the potential of your Coustic amplifier, we recommend you match it with our full-feature high performance AM/FM CD/cassette source units, dynamic full-range speakers or subwoofers, state-of-the-art equalizers and electronic crossovers.
Whatever you need for your ultimate car audio system, look to Coustic - we have the fullest range of car audio components to meet the most critical demands.
Coustic...a sound investment.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronically, mechanically, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Mitek Corporation or Coustic.
Please take a moment to complete and mail in the Owners’ Registration Card. (The serial number of your amplifier is marked on the bottom of its metal chassis.) Please also record the serial number of your amplifier in the space provided below and keep this manual for future reference.
Serial Number: ________________________________________________________________
Date of Purchase: ______________________________________________________________
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FEATURES
MULTI-FUNCTION / MULTI-CHANNEL CIRCUIT DESIGN
The 4-channel 320/480QE amplifier can be configured as a 4-, 3- or 2-channel amplifier with built-in high-pass/low-pass filters. Each of the front and rear stereo amplifiers can be bridged to provide maximum system design flexibility. With the filters switched off, this amplifier can be configured as 2 separate quasi 3-channel amplifiers where each amplifier is capable of simultaneous mono (subwoofer) and stereo (mid-range) operation.
BUILT-IN ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER WITH CONTINUOUSLY ADJUSTABLE CROSSOVER
FREQUENCIES
You have the choice of selecting full-range, high-pass only or low-pass only. These filters feature 18 dB per octave high-pass and low-pass. Furthermore, the crossover frequencies are continuously variable for fine-tuning of your audio system.
OVER-CURRENT, SHORT CIRCUIT AND DC OFFSET PROTECTION
The sophisticated circuitry monitors abnormal conditions such as voltage spikes, oscillation, DC offset or short circuit. When any of these undesirable conditions exceed their respective preset limits, the circuit will shut down the audio system briefly and light up the protection indicator to identify the problem for immediate attention. Once the problem is resolved, the amplifier will resume operation automatically.
TRIPLE DARLINGTON HIGH CURRENT/HIGH VOLTAGE FULLY COMPLEMENTARY OUTPUT
STAGE
Complementary output stage audio circuitry has long been a hallmark of "exotic" home amplifier design. Coustic is one of the very few car audio manufacturers to incorporate such elaborate audio circuitry into its power amplifiers. Triple Darlington configuration ensures the audio amplifier is always operating under optimum conditions.
LINE OUTPUTS
The full-range line outputs can be used to feed signals to another amplifier for your future expansion or for setting up a more sophisticated system.
WIDE RANGE INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT
The input sensitivity level of the Coustic QE Series amplifiers can be easily varied from as low as 100 mV to as high as 5.0 volts by adjusting the control on the End Panel.
HIGH/LOW IMPEDANCE INPUT
If you are using a floating or common ground car stereo, these amplifiers are the best fit for your system. They are compatible with floating or common ground car stereo speaker outputs even without a floating ground adapter. If, in the future, you decide to change to a higher quality after market source unit with RCA pre-amp outputs (like the Coustic CD527), this same amplifier is there to give you improved frequency response and better sonic performance.
STABLE INTO 2-OHM LOADS
With the over-designed power supply section and a sophisticated power management circuitry, these amplifiers can maintain their stability even in the highly reactive low impedance environment.
ADJUSTABLE BASS BOOST
This feature allows you to enhance the bass performance of your sound system. The control is continuously variable with a maximum boost level of 18 dB.
BUILT-IN REMOTE SUBWOOFER LEVEL CONTROL PORT (not available on 320QE)
This amplifier has a built-in remote subwoofer level control input port. With the optional RS remote control, the subwoofer output level can be adjusted to compensate for bass fluctuations in a moving vehicle.
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CONTROLS, INDICATORS, AND TERMINALS
FRONT PANEL
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FREQ180 |
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FREQ180 |
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HPF OFF LPF |
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Figure 1: Front Panel Terminals and Controls |
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1. FRONT CHANNEL FILTER MODE SELECT SWITCH (MODE) |
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"HPF": |
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a mid/tweeter amplifier. |
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"OFF": |
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a full-range amplifier. |
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"LPF": |
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a subwoofer amplifier. |
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2.FRONT CHANNEL HIGH-PASS / LOW-PASS FREQUENCY SELECTOR KNOB (FREQ) Select a high or low-pass crossover frequency between 30 to 300Hz.
3.FRONT CHANNEL BASS BOOST CONTROL (BOOST)
Select a boost level between 0 dB and +18 dB to enhance the bass performance of your sound system.
4.FRONT CHANNEL INPUT SENSITIVITY LEVEL CONTROL (SENS)
The input sensitivity level can be varied from 5.0 volts to 100 mV depending on the output voltage of the source unit (refer to sub-section titled INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT).
5.FRONT CHANNEL HIGH IMPEDANCE INPUT
To be connected to RCA pre-amp outputs from a source unit (i.e., radio, tape deck or CD player).
6.FRONT/REAR CHANNEL LOW IMPEDANCE INPUT
To be connected to speaker outputs from a source unit when pre-amp outputs are not available.
7.LINE LEVEL OUTPUT
This output can be used to connect to another amplifier for system expansion.
Note: This line level output is full range.
8.REAR CHANNEL FILTER MODE SELECT SWITCH (MODE)
"HPF": |
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a mid/tweeter amplifier. |
"OFF": |
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a full-range amplifier. |
"LPF": |
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a subwoofer amplifier. |
9.REAR CHANNEL HIGH-PASS / LOW-PASS FREQUENCY SELECTOR KNOB (FREQ)
Select high or low-pass crossover frequency between 30 to 300Hz.
10.REAR CHANNEL BASS BOOST CONTROL (BOOST)
Select a boost level between 0 dB and +18 dB to enhance the bass performance of your sound system.
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11.REAR CHANNEL INPUT SENSITIVITY LEVEL CONTROL (SENS)
The input sensitivity level can be varied from 5.0 volts to 100 mV depending on the output voltage of the source unit (refer to sub-section titled INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT).
12.REAR CHANNEL HIGH IMPEDANCE INPUT
To be connected to RCA pre-amp outputs from a source unit (i.e., radio, tape deck or
CD player). If there is only one input available, connect it to the front input so that signals can automatically be directed to the rear channels.
13.REMOTE SUBWOOFER LEVEL INPUT (not available on 320QE)
To be connected to the optional RS remote subwoofer volume control.
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REAR PANEL |
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PWR /PRT |
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FUSE |
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GRD REM B+ |
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Figure 2: Rear Panel Terminals and Indicators
14.POWER AND PROTECT INDICATOR (PWR/PRT) Green light indicates that the amplifier is "ON."
Red light indicates either a high current, short circuit or DC offset is detected at the speaker outputs. The amplifier will revert to normal operation once the problem is rectified.
This indicator also lights up at a high operating temperature. Under this condition, the amplifier will automatically shut down. As soon as the temperature falls to a safe level, the amplifier will automatically resume operation.
15.POWER INPUT TERMINAL (B+)
To be connected to the positive terminal of the vehicle’s battery or other constant +12 V source.
16.GROUND INPUT TERMINAL (GND)
To be wired to the vehicle’s chassis for ground.
17.REMOTE TURN-ON INPUT TERMINAL (REM)
To be connected to the remote control wire or power antenna lead of the source unit for remote ON/OFF.
18.FUSE RECEPTACLE
19.FRONT CHANNEL LEFT/RIGHT SPEAKER OUTPUT TERMINAL
For connection to the front speaker system.
20.REAR CHANNEL LEFT/RIGHT SPEAKER OUTPUT TERMINAL
For connection to the rear speaker system.
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SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
By purchasing the 4-channel 320/480QE amplifier, you are already one step closer to experiencing the purest and most natural sound quality in the automobile environment. To take full advantage of the potential of this amplifier, before installation, we strongly recommend that you acquaint yourself with all its available features and then spend some time in designing a system most suitable for you. Take into consideration the components you have now and those that you plan on adding or upgrading in the future.
BUILT-IN ASYMMETRICAL ELECTRONIC CROSSOVERS
An electronic crossover has many advantages over passive crossovers - lower cost, simplified, yet more flexible system design, lower distortion and higher gain structure. The 320/480QE power amplifiers are equipped with built-in 18 dB per octave continuously adjustable electronic crossovers. The front and rear channels can be configured separately for full-range, high-pass or low-pass applications.
The line output is designed to provide additional expansion capability to your sound system.
BI-AMPLIFICATION
A bi-amplified system normally consists of an active crossover and two amplifiers. The active crossover divides the audio frequency spectrum into two ranges: frequencies below the crossover point are directed to the amplifier driving the subwoofer(s), while all frequencies above the crossover point are directed to the amplifier driving the mid-range/tweeters.
Because of the versatility of the Coustic 4-channel amplifier - the capability of being a 4-, 3- or 2-channel amplifier - you are quite free to build whatever mobile audio system you want or to plan a long term expansion scheme for your car’s audio system.
For example, with the low impedance input, you can use the 320/480QE as a 4-channel amplifier to upgrade your existing factory sound system to drive the stock front and rear speakers.
Or you can bi-amp your system using the front amplifier to drive a pair of high-passed mid/tweeter speakers while using the rear amplifier to drive a pair of woofers/subwoofers
You can also configure the 320/480QE as front and rear high-passed mid/tweeter amplifiers and use the output for connection to another subwoofer amplifier.
If you need more power, you can use the amplifier as a 2-channel subwoofer amplifier to drive a pair of subwoofers. The full-range line output can be used to drive an additional amplifier driving the rear full-range speaker.
3 CHANNEL CONFIGURATION
When the mode switches are set at the OFF position, the amplifier can be configured as two separate amplifiers. Each amplifier can be configured as either a 1-channel, bridged, mono amplifier driving a single speaker, a 2-channel, stereo amplifier driving a pair of speakers, or with the addition of passive crossovers, a quasi 3-channel amplifier driving a pair of leftand right-channel, full-range mid-tweeters and a mono woofer simultaneously. Care must be taken to choose capacitors and inductors of correct value; otherwise damage could be done to the speakers and/or the amplifier.
For the approximate passive crossover components’ value, please refer to Coustic’s website, http//:www.coustic.com.
MULTI-FUNCTION PROTECTION INDICATOR
When the red protect indicator lights up it signifies a high operating temperature is detected and the amplifier is temporarily shut down to allow for a cooling period. As soon as the temperature returns to a safe level, the amplifier will restart and resume normal operation.
This indicator also lights up when the amplifier detects either an over-current situation, shorted speaker outputs or a DC offset at the outputs. Turn off the amplifier, double-check all inputs and speaker connections to make sure there is no short or inappropriate inputs. If all connections are in order, turn on the amplifier to resume operation.
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SPEAKER IMPEDANCE
Although extremely low impedance speaker loads will not damage the amplifier, for stereo mode, we recommend speaker loads of 2, 4 or 8 ohms; for bridged mono mode, 4 or 8 ohms.
(Note: In bridged mono mode, the amplifier sees only half of the speaker impedance).
NOTE: Remember that we are not defying the laws of Physics! IF you decide to connect ANY Coustic amplifier into a bridged mono load BELOW 4 ohms, Physics dictates that current draw doubles! This is not too big a problem with the 320QE. But with the 480QE this is DANGEROUS. The current draw could be as great as 150 amps (peak). Make sure you wire your system properly.
POWER CABLES
Power cables are as important as battery capacity. Use only high quality power cables of gauge size AWG 8 (AWG 4 for the 480QE) or bigger for installation.
YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO BIG OF A POWER/GROUND WIRE!
CIRCUIT BREAKER/FUSES
It is also advisable to install a circuit breaker/fuse close to the battery. This would effectively lower the risk of the power cable catching fire should a short circuit occur in the audio system.
A circuit breaker or fuse with 50% the rating of the main batteries amp hour rating is recommended. Going larger in circuit breaker or fuse value means that you have NO protection. DO NOT over fuse! Fuses on the amplifier DO NOT protect the amplifier, they protect the car.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS & ACCESSORIES
Quality equipment, and proper system design and installation are the ingredients for the ultimate car audio system. With your wise decision to purchase this Coustic amplifier, you are already one big step closer to realizing your dream. The next step is simple - have an experienced professional Coustic dealer install your audio system. However, if you prefer to install the system yourself, we have the following recommendations for your reference:
Caution: Improper installation will void the product warranty and Coustic is not responsible for any consequential damage to the amplifier and/or other audio components and/or electrical components of the vehicle.
TERMINALS, LUGS AND CONNECTORS
High current terminals, lugs and/or connectors are also required to ensure a safe and sure electrical connection and conduction.
NEGATIVE GROUNDING SYSTEM
The 320/480QE power amplifiers are designed for use with a 12-Volt negative ground system. Installing this amplifier in a vehicle with a POSITIVE ground system will result in severe damage to the amplifier, other audio components and/or the vehicle’s electrical components.
If your vehicle happens to run on a positive ground system, please consult your Coustic dealer.
WARNING: The 320/480QE power amplifiers are very powerful. We strongly recommend installation in the following manner:
(1)by professional mobile audio installers; and
(2)incorporating all of the above special precautions and accessories.
Failure to comply with either one or both of the above conditions will render the warranty void and Coustic is not responsible for any consequential damage to the amplifier, other audio components and/or electrical components of the vehicle.
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