IT-4000
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series
I-T4000
I-T6000
I-T8000
Obtaining Other Language Versions:
local Crown Distributor. If you need assistance locating your local distributor, please contact Crown at 574-294-8000.
This manual does not include all of the details of design, production, or variations of the equipment. Nor does it cover every possible
situation which may arise during installation, operation or maintenance.
The information provided in this manual was deemed accurate as of the publication date. However, updates to this information may have
occurred. To obtain the latest version of this manual, please visit the Crown website at www.crownaudio.com.
Trademark Notice:
and TCP/IQ are trademarks of Crown International. HiQnet is a trademark of Harman International Industries, Inc. Other trademarks are
the property of their respective owners.
©2006 by Crown Audio® Inc., 1718 W. Mishawaka Rd., Elkhart, Indiana 46517-9439 U.S.A. Telephone: 574-294-8000
Crown, Crown Audio, IQ, IQ System, BCA, and Amcron are registered trademarks of Crown International. IQwic
To obtain information in another language about the use of this product, please contact your
Some models may be exported under the name Amcron.
®
137289-8C
3/06
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Important Safety Instructions
Importantes Instructions de Sécurité
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with a dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. 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 fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched,
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12) Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/
apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in
any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged,
liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.
15) WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELE CTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN
OR MOISTURE.
16) DO NOT EXPOSE TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING. DO
NOT PLACE OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUID, SUCH AS
VASES,ON THIS APPARATUS.
Wichtige Sicherheitsinstruktionen
Instrucciones de Seguridad Importantes
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE TOP OR
BOTTOM COVERS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
À PRÉVENIR LE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE N’ENLEVEZ PAS LES
COUVERCLES. IL N’Y A PAS DES PARTIES SERVICEABLE À
L’INTÉRIEUR. TOUS REPARATIONS DOIT ETRE FAIRE PAR
PERSONNEL QUALIFIÉ SEULMENT.
PARA PREVENIR UN CHOQUE ELÉCTRICO, NO RETIRE LAS
CUBIERTAS SUPERIOR O INFERIOR. NO EXISTEN PARTES
QUE PUEDAN SER REPARADAS POR EL USUARIO AL INTERIOR. REMITA EL SERVICICO AL PERSONAL TÉCHNICAL
CALIFICADO.
TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS EQUIPMENT FROM
THE AC MAINS, DISCONNECT THE POWER SUPPLY CORD
PLUG FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE. THE MAINS PLUG OF
THE POWER SUPPLY CORD SHALL REMAIN READILY
OPERABLE.
POUR DÉMONTER COMPLÈTEMENT L'ÉQUIPEMENT DE
L'ALIMENTATION GÉNÉRALE, DÉMONTER LE CÂBLE D'ALIMENTATION DE SON RÉCEPTACLE. LA PRISE D'ALIMENTATION RESTERA AISÉMENT FONCTIONNELLE.
PARA DESCONECTAR COMPLETAMENTE EL EQUIPO DEL
SUMINSTRO ELECTRICO, DESCONECTE EL CABLE DE ALIMENTACION DE LA TOMA DE CA. LAS PATAS DEL CONECTOR DEL CABLE DE ALIMENTACIÓN DEBERAN
MANTENERSE EN BUEN ESTADO.
WATCH FOR THESE SYMBOLS:
The lightning bolt triangle is used to alert the user to the risk
of electric shock.
The exclamation point triangle is used to alert the user to
important operating or maintenance instructions.
REGARDEZ CES SYMBOLES
La triangle avec le sigle ‘’foudre’’ est employée pour alerter
l'utilisateur au risque de décharge électrique. Le triangle avec
un point d'exclamation est employée pour alerter l'utilisateur
d’instruction importantes pour lors opérations de maintenance.
ATENCION CON ESTOS SÍMBOLOS
El triángulo con el símbolo de rayo eléctrico es usado para
alertar al usuario de el riesgo de un choque eléctrico.
El triángulo con el signo de admiración es usado para alertar
al usuario de instrucciones importantes de operación o mantenimiento.
IMPORTANT
I-Tech Series amplifiers require Class 2 output wiring.
Les amplificateurs de série de I-Tech exigent des câbles de sortie de
classe 2.
I-Tech-Reihe-Verstärker verlangen Klasse die 2 Produktionsverdrahtung.
Los amplificadores de la Serie I-Tech requieren de un cableado de
salida Clase 2.
MAGNETIC FIELD
CAUTION! Do not locate sensitive high-gain equipment such as
preamplifiers or tape decks directly above or below the unit.
Because this amplifier has a high power density, it has a strong
magnetic field which can induce hum into unshielded devices that
are located nearby. The field is strongest just above and below the
unit.
If an equipment rack is used, we recommend locating the amplifier(s) in the bottom of the rack and the preamplifier or other sensitive equipment at the top.
FCC COMPLIANCE NOTICE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
page 2
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Crown International, Inc.
ISSUED BY: Crown International, Inc.
1718 W. Mishawaka Road
Elkhart, Indiana 46517 U.S.A.
European Representative's Name and Address:
Nick Owen
35, Bassets Field
Thornhill
Cardiff. South Glamorgen
CF14 9UG United Kingdom
Equipment Type: Commercial Audio Power Amplifiers
Family Name: I-Tech
Model Names: I-T4000, I-T6000, I-T8000
EMC Standards:
EN 55103-1:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional Use, Part 1: Emissions
EN 55103-1:1997 Magnetic Field Emissions-Annex A @ 10 cm and 20 cm
EN 61000-3-2:2001 Limits for Harmonic Current Emissions (equipment input current less than or equal to 16 A per phase)
EN 61000-3-3:2002 Limitation of Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker in Low-Voltage Supply Systems Rated Current less than or equal to16A
EN 55022:2003 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of ITE: Radiated, Class B Limits; Conducted, Class A
EN 55103-2:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional Use, Part 2: Immunity
EN 61000-4-2:2001 Electrostatic Discharge Immunity (Environment E2-Criteria B, 4k V Contact, 8k V Air Discharge)
EN 61000-4-3:2001 Radiated, Radio-Frequency, Electromagnetic Immunity (Environment E2, criteria A)
EN 61000-4-4:2001 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Immunity (Criteria B)
EN 61000-4-5:2001 Surge Immunity (Criteria B)
EN 61000-4-6:2003 Immunity to Conducted Disturbances Induced by Radio-Frequency Fields (Criteria A)
EN 61000-4-11:2001 Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Voltage Variation
Safety Standard:
IEC 60065: 2001 7th Ed. Safety Requirements - Audio Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus
I certify that the product identified above conforms to the requirements of the EMC Council Directive 89/336/EEC as amended by 92/31/EEC, and the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EES as amended by 93/68/EEC.
DECLARATION of CONFORMITY
FOR COMPLIANCE QUESTIONS ONLY:
Sue Whitfield
574-294-8289
swhitfield@crownintl.com
Signed
Date of Issue: May 1, 2004
Title: Senior Vice President of Manufacturing
Operation Manual page 3
Due to line current harmonics, we recommend that you contact your supply authority before connection.
Getting Started With I-Tech
Welcome! Operating your I-Tech amplifier can be as simple or advanced as you wish. Right out
of the box, it works like any other amplifier with stereo loudspeaker loads.
• For bridge-mono operation, see page 5.
• If you want to control and monitor the amplifier with Crown’s IQ
Section 4.5.4. If you are going to use SystemArchitect, please follow the information included
with System Architect.
• If you want to load DSP presets or perform diagnostics using the amplifier’s LCD control
screen (Figure A.3), see Section 4.2.
You can refer to this Quick-Start Guide to get up and running quickly. To learn about I-Tech’s
many advanced features, please see the rest of this manual.
System® software, see
Quick-Start Guide: Stereo Wiring
Let’s assume that you unpacked and installed your amplifier with the proper cooling. If not, see
Section 2 in this manual. We’ll also assume that you will operate the amplifier in stereo.
want to operate your amplifier in bridge-mono, skip to page 5.
1. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier. Unplug its power cord from the AC outlet.
The amplifier must be grounded when plugged into AC power.
2. See Figure A.1. Connect two cables from your mixer output to the amplifier’s XLR input con-
nectors.
3. Using Class 2 wiring, connect speaker cables either to the amplifier’s Speakon
(as in Figure A.2) or to the binding posts (as in Figure A.1.)
If you
®
connectors
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Figure A.1 Rear-panel Connections
for Stereo Wiring
4. Turn down your mixer master faders. Plug the power cord into the amplifier and then into an
AC outlet. Turn on the front-panel power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up (Figure
A.3).
5. Using both Encoder knobs (Level controls), set Attenuation to 0 dB. Press the Menu/Exit
button, then the Next button, to access CH1 Sensitivity. Turn an Encoder knob fully down
(CCW) until the minimum dB gain is displayed. Then press Next and repeat for CH2 Sensitivity.
See Appendix B for details.
6. Play a program through your mixer. Set its level to peak at 0 dB or 0 VU maximum on the
mixer meters. Gradually turn up (CW) the amplifier Encoder knobs (Level controls) to the
desired volume for CH2. Press Prev and repeat for CH1. Press Exit when done.
Note: If the SPL is too high at the beginning of Step 6, press Menu/Exit, then press Next until
you see ADVANCED MENU. Push an Encoder knob. Press Next until you see MAXIMUM ANALOG INPUT. Press an Encoder knob so the display reads 21 dBu. Press Menu/Exit twice. Press
Next. CH1 Sensitivity will be displayed. Gradually turn up (CW) the left Encoder knob to the
desired volume for CH1. Press Next and repeat for CH2. Press Exit when done.
CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is turned on and is passing a signal.
page 4
Wiring Two Speakers
Figure A.2
to Two Speakon Con-
nectors for Stereo
Operation
Channel 1
Loudspeaker
Bottom
Speakon
(Channel 2)
Top Speakon
(Channel 1)
Channel 2
Loudspeaker
Figure A.3
The LCD Control Screen
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Quick-Start Guide: Bridge-Mono Wiring
Let’s assume that you unpacked and installed your amplifier with the proper cooling. If not,
see Section 2 in this manual. We’ll also assume that you will operate the amplifier in BridgeMono. Basically you will turn on the amp, enable Bridge-Mono mode with the LCD Control
Screen, turn off the amp, wire it, and turn it back on.
1. Be sure that no cables are connected to the amplifier. Plug the amplifier power cord into
the amplifier, then into an AC outlet.
2. Turn on the amplifier power switch on the front panel. The LCD Control Screen will light
up (Figure A.4).
3. Under the LCD Control Screen, press the Menu/Exit button. Press the Next button until
you see Output Mode on the screen.
4. Press either Encoder knob to select BRIDGE MONO. Press and hold the knob to confirm
your choice. Press the Menu/Exit button.
5. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier. Unplug its power cord from the AC out-
let. The amplifier must be grounded when plugged into AC power.
6. See Figure A.5. Connect a cable from your mixer output to the amplifier’s Channel-1 XLR
input connector.
7. Using Class 2 wiring, connect the speaker cable either to the amplifier’s top Speakon
connector (terminals 1+ and 2+, Figure A.6) or across the red binding posts of both channels
(Figure A.5). Do not use the black binding posts in bridge-mono mode.
8. Turn down your mixer master faders. Plug the power cord into the amplifier and then into
an AC outlet. Turn on the front-panel power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up
(Figure A.3).
9. Using both Encoder knobs (Level controls), set Attenuation to 0 dB. Press the Menu/
Exit button, then the Next button, to access CH1 Sensitivity. Turn an Encoder knob fully
down (CCW) until the minimum dB gain is displayed. See Appendix B for details.
10. Play a program through your mixer. Set its level to peak at 0 dB or 0 VU maximum on
the mixer meters. Gradually turn up (CW) the left Encoder knob (Level control) to the desired
volume for CH1. Press Exit when done.
Note: If the SPL is too high at the beginning of Step 10, press Menu/Exit, then press Next
until you see ADVANCED MENU. Push an Encoder knob. Press Next until you see MAXIMUM ANALOG INPUT. Press an Encoder knob so the display reads 21 dBu. Press Menu/
Exit twice. Press Next. CH1 Sensitivity will be displayed. Gradually turn up (CW) the left
Encoder knob to the desired volume for CH1. Press Exit when done.
Figure A.5 Rear Panel Connections
for Bridge-Mono Wiring
CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal
voltages exist at the output
connectors when the
amplifier is turned on and
is passing a signal.
Figure A.4
The LCD Control Screen
Figure A.6
Wiring a Speaker to the Top
Speakon Connector for
Bridge-Mono Operation
Operation Manual page 5
Table of Contents
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Important Safety Instructions ............................................................2
Declaration of Conformity..................................................................3
Getting Started with I-Tech ................................................................4
Quick Start Guide: Stereo Wiring.......................................................4
Quick Start Guide: Bridge-Mono Wiring............................................5
Table of Contents...............................................................................6
1 Welcome ........................................................7
1.1 Features ................................................................................7
1.2 How to Use This Manual .......................................................7
2 Setup ............................................................8
2.1 Unpack and Install Your Amplifier ........................................8
2.2 Connecting to AC Mains ......................................................9
2.3 Wire Inputs and Outputs .......................................................9
3 Operation .......................................................13
3.1 Protecting Your Speakers......................................................13
3.2 Startup Procedure .................................................................13
3.3 Precautions ..........................................................................13
3.4 Front Panel Controls and Indicators .....................................14
3.5 Back Panel Controls, Indicators and Connectors ..................15
4 Advanced Operation............................................16
4.1 Advanced Operation Table of Contents..................................16
4.2 Navigating the LCD Control Screen.......................................17
4.3 Presets..................................................................................22
4.4 Digital-Audio Options (AES/EBU)..........................................22
4.5 Network Setup Wizard ...........................................................23
4.6 Software-Controllable Onboard DSP ....................................24
5 Troubleshooting ................................................ 27
6 Specifications .................................................. 29
6.1 Performance...........................................................................29
6.2 Charts.....................................................................................31
7 AC Power Draw and Thermal Dissipation .................. 32
8 Advanced Features ............................................ 35
8.1 Protection Systems ...............................................................35
8.2 Global, Switching Power Supply with PFC ...........................35
8.3 3rd Generation Class I Circuitry............................................35
8.4. Color-Coded Rear Overlay ...................................................35
8.5 Rear Rack Ears with Integral EZ-Rack Pin..............................35
9 Appendix A: Network Basics.................................. 36
Appendix B: Setting Sensitivity for Best Gain Staging.... 38
10 Service ......................................................... 39
11 Warranty ....................................................... 40
Crown Factory Service Information Form .........................................43
page 6
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
20 Hz - 20 kHz
I-T4000
2-ohm Dual (per ch.)
4-ohm Dual (per ch.)
8-ohm Dual (per ch.)
4-ohm Bridge
8-ohm Bridge
20 Hz - 20 kHz Power refers to guaranteed
minimum power in watts with 0.35% THD.
Power
1,800W
2,000W
1,250W
3,600W
4,000W
1
Menu/Exit Prev Next
2
20 Hz - 20 kHz
I-T6000
2-ohm Dual (per ch.)
4-ohm Dual (per ch.)
8-ohm Dual (per ch.)
4-ohm Bridge
8-ohm Bridge
20 Hz - 20 kHz Power refers to guaranteed
minimum power in watts with 0.35% THD.
I-T8000
2-ohm Dual (per ch.)
4-ohm Dual (per ch.)
8-ohm Dual (per ch.)
4-ohm Bridge
8-ohm Bridge
20 Hz - 20 kHz Power refers to guaranteed
minimum power in watts with 0.35% THD.
Power
2,500W
3,000W
1,500W
5,000W
6,000W
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Power
3,500W
4,000W
2,100W
7,000W
8,000W
1 Welcome
The Crown® I-Tech Series offers amazing
power, light weight and ease of use for touring
sound applications. Unlike other amplifiers, it
includes onboard DSP, an LCD control screen,
and a built-in network connection.
Modern power amplifiers are sophisticated
pieces of engineering capable of producing
extremely high power levels. They must be
treated with respect and correctly installed if
they are to provide the many years of reliable
service for which they were designed.
In addition, I-Tech Series amplifiers include a
number of features which require some explanation before they can be used to their maximum advantage.
Please take the time to study this manual so
that you can obtain the best possible service
from your amplifier.
1.1 Features
• Global Power Supply with PFC (Power Factor Correction) works anywhere in the world.
• High power density, up to 8000 watts in a 2U
chassis.
• Highest output voltage in the industry (200V
peak) provides clean transient peaks.
• 3rd-generation patented Class I (BCA
cuitry couples power efficiently to the load and
provides low AC current drain.
• Onboard DSP with 24-bit, 96 kHz Cirrus
Logic A/D and D/A converters.
• Pushbutton presets simplify setup. Custom
presets for various loudspeakers can be downloaded.
• AES/EBU digital audio input. Ethernet connector accepts RJ-45 connector for HiQnet™ or
TCP/IQ networking.
• Analog and digital thru connectors.
• LCD Control Screen is used to adjust the
amplifier's attenuation and muting, configure
the amp, set up and view error monitoring, and
recall DSP presets to reconfigure the amp for
various applications.
• Comprehensive array of indicators provide
accurate diagnostics: Power, Data, Bridge,
along with Ready, Signal, Clip, Thermal and
Fault for each channel.
• AC mains indicator in power switch glows
green when AC power is present.
• Light weight due to aluminum chassis, special internal construction and switching power
supply.
®
) cir-
• Thermal management controller and two discrete thermal zones with variable-speed fans,
forced-air cooling.
• Advanced protection circuitry guards
against: shorted outputs, DC, mismatched
loads, general overheating, under/over voltage, high-frequency overloads and internal
faults.
• Three-Year, No-Fault, Fully Transferable
Warranty completely protects your investment
and guarantees its specifications.
1.2 How to Use This Manual
This manual provides you with the necessary
information to safely and correctly setup and
operate your amplifier. It does not cover every
aspect of installation, setup or operation that
might occur under every condition. For additional information, please consult Crown’s
Amplifier Application Guide and I-Tech
Application Guide (available online at
www.crownaudio.com), Crown Technical Support, your system installer or retailer.
We strongly recommend you read all instructions, warnings and cautions contained in this
manual. Also, for your protection, please send
in your warranty registration card today. And
save your bill of sale — it’s your official proof
of purchase.
Operation Manual page 7
2 Setup
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
2.1 Unpack and Install Your
Amplifier
Please unpack and inspect your amplifier for
any damage that may have occurred during
transit. If damage is found, notify the transportation company immediately. Only you can initiate a claim for shipping damage. Crown will
be happy to help as needed. Save the shipping
carton as evidence of damage for the shipper’s
inspection.
We also recommend that you save all packing
materials so you will have them if you ever
need to transport the unit. Never ship the
unit without the factory pack.
YOU WILL NEED (not supplied):
• Input wiring cables
• Output wiring cables
Rack for mounting amplifier (or a stable surface
for stacking)
WARNING: Before you start to set up
your amplifier, make sure you read and
observe the Important Safety Instructions found at the beginning of this
manual.
CAUTION: Before you begin, make sure
your amplifier is disconnected from the
power source, with the power switch in
the “off” position and all level controls
turned completely down (counterclockwise).
Use a standard 19-inch (48.3 cm) equipment
rack (EIA RS-310B). See Figure 2.1 for amplifier dimensions.
You may also stack amps without using a
cabinet.
NOTE: When transporting, amplifiers should be
supported at both front and back.
MAGNETIC FIELD
CAUTION! Do not locate sensitive high-gain
equipment such as preamplifiers or tape decks
directly above or below the unit. Because this
amplifier has a high power density, it has a
strong magnetic field which can induce hum
into unshielded devices that are located nearby.
The field is strongest on the right side and right
bottom of the amplifier (facing the amplifier).
If an equipment rack is used, we recommend
locating sensitive equipment at least 20 cm
(8 inches) away from the amplifier.
When using an equipment rack, mount units
directly on top of each other. Close any open
spaces in rack with blank panels. DO NOT
block front or rear air vents. The side walls of
the rack should be a minimum of two inches
(5.1 cm) away from the amplifier sides, and the
back of the rack should be a minimum of four
inches (10.2 cm) from the amplifier back panel.
Figure 2.2 illustrates standard amplifier airflow.
page 8
19 In.
48.3 cm
16.2 In.
41.1 cm
Figure 2.1
Dimensions
1.5 In.
3.8 cm
3.5 In.
8.9 cm
Figure 2.2 Airflow
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
2 Setup
2.2 Connecting to AC Mains
WARNING: The third (ground) prong of the supplied AC power
cord connector is a required safety feature. Do not attempt to
disable this ground connection by using an adapter or other
methods.
Amplifiers don’t create energy. The AC mains voltage and current must be
sufficient to deliver the power you expect. You must operate your amplifier
from an AC mains power source with not more than a 10% variation above
or a 15% variation below the amplifier’s specified line voltage range and
within the specified frequency requirements (indicated on the amplifier’s
back panel label). If you are unsure of the output voltage of your AC mains,
please consult your electrician.
2.3 Wire Inputs and Outputs
2.3.1 Wiring basics
• Always use shielded wire for input wiring. The higher the density of the
shield (the outer conductor) the better. Spiral wrapped shield is not recommended.
• When using unbalanced lines keep the cables as short as possible.
Avoid lengths greater than 10 feet (3 meters).
• Do not run the audio input cables together with the high-level wiring
such as loudspeaker wires or AC cords. (This lessens the chance of hum
and noise being induced into the input cables.)
• Turn the entire sound system off before changing any connections.
Crown is not liable for damage incurred when any transducer or component is overdriven.
THE CHANNEL 2 INPUT IS IGNORED if the amplifier is used in BridgeMono mode.
For additional information on audio input wiring please refer to the Crown
Amplifier Application Guide available online at www.crownaudio.com. It
contains helpful information on preventing unwanted subsonic frequencies, radio frequency interference, ground loops, and feedback oscillation.
Operation Manual page 9
2 Setup
2.3.2 Choose Input Wire and Connectors
Crown recommends using pre-built or professionally wired, balanced line (two-conductor plus shield), 22-24 gauge cables and
connectors. Use 3-pin male XLR connectors.
Unbalanced line may also be used but may result in noise over
long cable runs.
Figure 2.1 shows connector pin assignments for balanced analog
wiring or AES/EBU digital wiring. The use of standard analog
cable with AES/EBU will result in diminished performance. For
best results, 110 ohm shielded twisted-pair cable for AES/EBU
signals is highly recommended. Figure 2.2 shows connector pin
assignments for unbalanced analog wiring.
NOTE: Custom wiring should only be performed by qualified personnel.
2.3.3 Choose Output Wire and Connectors
Crown recommends using pre-built or professionally wired,
high-quality, two- or four-conductor, heavy gauge speaker wire
and connectors. Use Class 2 output wiring. You may use a 4-pole
Speakon connector (Figure 2.3) or banana plugs for your output
connectors (Figure 2.4). To prevent the possibility of short-circuits, wrap or otherwise insulate exposed loudspeaker cable connectors.
CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages
exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is
turned on and is passing a signal.
Using the guidelines below, select the appropriate size of wire
based on the distance from amplifier to speaker.
Distance Wire Size
up to 25 ft. 16 AWG
26-40 ft. 14 AWG
41-60 ft. 12 AWG
61-100 ft. 10 AWG
101-150 ft. 8 AWG
151-250 ft. 6 AWG
CAUTION: Never use shielded cable for output wiring.
Figure 2.1
Balanced Analog Input Connector Wiring or
AES/EBU Digital Connector Wiring
Figure 2.3
Left: Speakon
Right: Speakon
Output Connector on Back Panel
Cable Connector
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Figure 2.2 Unbalanced Analog Input Connector Wiring
page 10
Figure 2.4
Binding Post Connections
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
2 Setup
2.3.4 Stereo Mode Wiring
Typical input and output wiring is shown in Figure 2.5.
IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier and unplug its power cord.
INPUTS: Choose one of these options:
• Connect analog input wiring for both channels.
• Connect an AES/EBU digital signal to the AES/EBU connector.
OUTPUTS: Maintain proper polarity (+/–) on output connectors. Use
Class 2 output wiring.
Figure 2.5 shows how to wire stereo speakers to the binding posts. Con-
nect Channel 1 loudspeaker’s positive (+) lead to Channel 1 positive
(red) terminal of amp; repeat for negative (–). Repeat Channel 2 wiring
as for Channel 1.
To wire stereo speakers to the Speakon
methods:
Method 1 (Table 1 and Figure 2.6): Wire one Speakon cable connector
to two speakers. Insert the Speakon cable connector into the amplifier’s
top Speakon connector.
Method 2 (Table 2 and Figure 2.7): Plug the Channel 1 speaker into the
Channel 1 (top) Speakon connector, and plug the Channel 2 speaker
into the Channel 2 (bottom) Speakon connector.
connectors, use one of these
Figure 2.5
System Wiring,
Stereo Mode
Table 1
Stereo Wiring Method 1: Use Top Speakon Only
PIN1+1–2+2–
CH 1+ 1– 2+ 2–
Figure 2.6 Wiring Two Stereo Speakers
to the Top Speakon Connector
Table 2
Stereo Wiring Method 2: Use Both Speakons
PIN 1+ 1–
Top Speakon
CH 1+ 1–
PIN 1+ 1–
Bottom Speakon
CH 2+ 2–
Channel 1
Loudspeaker
Bottom
Speakon
(Channel 2)
Top Speakon
(Channel 1)
Figure 2.7
Stereo Wiring Using
Both Speakon
Connectors
Channel 2
Loudspeaker
Operation Manual page 11
2 Setup
2.3.5 Bridge-Mono Mode
Overview: Turn on the amp, enable Bridge-Mono mode using the LCD Control
Screen, turn off the amp, wire it, and turn it back on.
1. Be sure that no cables are connected to the amplifier. Turn on the front-panel
power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up (Figure 2.8).
2. Under the LCD Control Screen, press the Menu/Exit button. Press the Next
button until you see OUTPUT MODE on the screen.
3. Press an Encoder knob to select BRIDGE MONO. Press the knob again to confirm
your choice. Press Menu/Exit. Turn down both level controls (Encoders) until you
reach maximum attenuation.
4. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier and unplug its power cord.
INPUTS: There are three ways to connect an input signal to the amplifier (Figure 2.9):
• Connect an analog signal source to the Channel-1 amplifier input.
• Connect an AES/EBU digital signal source to the Digital Input IN connector.
NOTE: Crown provides a reference of wiring pin assignments for commonly used
connector types in the Crown Amplifier Application Guide available at
www.crownaudio.com.
OUTPUTS: Use Class 2 output wiring. There are two ways to wire the amplifier output
connectors for Bridge-Mono mode:
1) Wire the speaker across the red binding post of each channel (Figure 2.9). Do not
use the black binding posts when operating in Bridge-Mono mode.
2) Wire the speaker only to the top Speakon connector as shown in Table 3 and Fig-
ure 2.10.
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
Figure 2.9 Bridge-Mono Wiring to Binding Posts
page 12
Figure 2.8
The LCD Control Screen
NOTE: In Bridge-Mono
mode, the Channel 1
Level control sets the
level; the Channel 2 Level
control is defeated.
Table 3
Top Speakon Wiring for Bridge-Mono
PIN 1+ 2+
SPKR+ –
Figure 2.10
Wiring a Speaker in Bridge-Mono Mode to
the Top Speakon Connector
Operation Manual
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
3 Operation
3.1 Protecting Your Speakers
It's wise to avoid clipping the amplifier signal. Not only does clipping
sound bad, it can damage high-frequency drivers. To prevent clipping,
use IQwic™ or System Architect software to enable or display the peak
voltage limiter and average power limiter in your amplifier’s built-in
DSP. That way, no matter how strong a signal your mixer produces, the
amplifier output will not clip. Set the limiter threshold so that mixer
signals above 0 dB or 0 VU on the mixer meters do not quite drive the
amplifier into clipping.
Also, avoid sending strong subsonic signals to the amplifier. High-
level, low-frequency signals from breath pops or dropped micro-
phones can blow out drivers. To prevent subsonic signals, use one of
these methods:
• Insert a highpass filter between mixer output and amplifier input (or
between mixer and limiter).
• Use the I-Tech’s onboard DSP to set up a highpass filters.
• Switch in highpass filters at your mixer. Set the filter to as high a fre-
quency as possible that does not affect your program. For example, try
35 Hz for music and 75 Hz for speech. On each mixer input channel,
set the filter frequency just below the lowest fundamental frequency of
that channel's instrument.
3.2 Startup Procedure
When first turning on your amplifier, follow the procedures in the
Quick-Start Guide on page 4 (stereo) or page 5 (bridge-mono).
If you ever need to make any wiring or installation changes, don’t forget to disconnect the power cord.
For help with determining your system’s optimum gain structure (signal levels) please refer to the Crown Amplifier Application Guide,
available online at www.crownaudio.com.
3.3 Precautions
Your amplifier is protected from internal and external faults, but you
should still take the following precautions for optimum performance
and safety:
1. Before use, your amplifier first must be configured for proper
operation, including input and output wiring hookup. Improper
wiring can result in serious operating difficulties. For information
on wiring and configuration, please consult the Setup section of
this manual or, for advanced setup techniques, consult Crown’s
Amplifier Application Guide available online at
www.crownaudio.com.
2. Use care when making connections, selecting signal sources and
controlling the output level. The load you save may be your own!
3. Do not short the ground lead of an output cable to the input signal
ground. This may form a ground loop and cause oscillations.
4. WARNING: Never connect the output to a power supply,
battery or power main. Electrical shock may result.
5. Tampering with the circuitry, or making unauthorized circuit
changes may be hazardous and invalidates all agency listings.
6. Do not operate the amplifier with the red Clip LEDs constantly
flashing.
7. Do not overdrive the mixer, which will cause clipped signal to be
sent to the amplifier. Such signals will be reproduced with
extreme accuracy, and loudspeaker damage may result.
8. Do not operate the amplifier with less than the rated load impedance. Due to the amplifier’s output protection, such a configuration may result in premature clipping and speaker damage.
9. CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages
exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is
turned on and is passing a signal.
Remember: Crown is not liable for damage that results from overdriving other system components.
Operation Manual page 13
3 Operation
I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers
3.4 Front Panel Controls
and Indicators
A. Cooling Vents
Front-to-rear forced airflow through foam dust filter.
LCD Control Screen and Controls
B. LCD Control Screen
Integrated LCD with white backlight, controls amplifier setup and operation.
The LCD Control Screen and its controls let the user
adjust the amplifier's attenuation and muting, configure the amp, set up and view error monitoring
(such as temperature and load supervision), and
recall DSP presets. The presets allow the user to
quickly reconfigure the amp for various applications.
A
C. Level Controls (Encoders)
Speed-sensitive, 0.5 dB steps, range 0 to –100 dB.
These two knobs affect the Channel-1 and
Channel-2 output levels. They also select Menu
items and adjust parameter values that are displayed
on the LCD control screen.
D. Menu/Exit Button
“Menu” enters the main menu. “Exit” leaves the
menu.
E. Prev Button
Selects the previous item in the menu.
F. Ne x t Button
Selects the next item in the menu.
Thermal and Fault Indicators
G. Clip Indicator
Red LED, one per channel, illuminates when the
channel’s output signal reaches the onset of audible
clipping. The Clip Indicator also will illuminate during Thermal Level Control (TLC) limiting.
H. Thermal Indicator
Red LED, one per channel, illuminates when the
channel has shut down due to thermal stress or
overload.
I. Fault Indicator
Red LED, one per channel, flashes when the amplifier output channel has stopped operating. Usually
this means that the amplifier must be serviced.
Signal Indicators
Three green LEDS per channel indicate the amplifier’s input and output signal levels. From top to bottom the LEDs are:
J. –10 dB: amplifier output is 10 dB below clipping.
K. –20 dB: amplifier output is 20 dB below clipping.
L. Signal: input signal is above –40 dBu.
B
M. Ready Indicator
Green LED, one per channel, illuminates when the
channel is initialized and ready to produce audio output. Indicator is off when the channel is set to standby
mode via System Architect or the IQ system.
N. Power Indicator
Blue LED indicates amplifier has been turned on and
AC power is available. The LED will flash when the AC
line voltage is 15% above or below the nominal rated
range.
O. Bridge Mode Indicator
Yellow LED illuminates when the amplifier is set to
Bridge-Mono mode.
P. Data Indicator
Yellow LED indicates HiQnet or IQ data activity. Data
indicator flashes only when the amplifier is polled for
data, or is polled to see whether it is online.
Q. Power Switch
Push-on/push-off switch glows green when AC power
is present at the power cord and the amplifier circuit
breaker is in the “on” position.
O
P
N
page 14
G
C
I
D
E
H
Figure 3.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators
K
F
M
L
J
Q
Operation Manual
Loading...