Crown Macro-Tech 5002VZ Reference Manual

Model: Macro-Tech 5002VZ

Some models may be exported under the name

©2000 by Crown International, Inc., P.O. Box 1000, Elkhart, IN 46515-1000 U.S.A. Telephone: 219-294-

8000. Fax: [phone]. Macro-Tech amplifiers are produced by the Professional Audio Unit of Crown
International, Inc. Trademark Notice:

Amcron

,®

Crown

,®

International, Inc. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Macro-Tech

,®

IOC

,®

ODEP

PIP,™ SmartAmp

®

,

IQ System

™

and

Grounded Bridge

®

and

P.I.P.

®

Amcron

are registered trademarks of Crown

Approved for
THX Theatre
Systems

®

.

™

are trademarks and

128313-2

8/00

3

Y

E

A

THREE YEAR

R

FULL WARRANTY

3

YEAR

WORLDWIDE

The Crown Audio Division of Crown International, Inc., 1718 West
Mishawaka Road, Elkhart, Indiana 46517-4095 U.S.A. warrants to you, the
ORIGINAL PURCHASER and ANY SUBSEQUENT OWNER of each
NEW Crown
purchase by the original purchaser (the “warranty period”) that the new
Crown product is free of defects in materials and workmanship, and we
further warrant the new Crown product regardless of the reason for failure,
except as excluded in this Crown Warranty.

1

Note: If your unit bears the name “Amcron,” please substitute it for the

name “Crown” in this warranty.

ITEMS EXCLUDED FROM THIS CROWN WARRANTY

This Crown Warranty is in effect only for failure of a new Crown product
which occurred within the Warranty Period. It does not cover any product
which has been damaged because of any intentional misuse, accident,
negligence, or loss which is covered under any of your insurance contracts.
This Crown Warranty also does not extend to the new Crown product if the
serial number has been defaced, altered, or removed.

We will remedy any defect, regardless of the reason for failure (except as
excluded), by repair, replacement, or refund. We may not elect refund
unless you agree, or unless we are unable to provide replacement, and
repair is not practical or cannot be timely made. If a refund is elected, then
you must make the defective or malfunctioning product available to us free
and clear of all liens or other encumbrances. The refund will be equal to the
actual purchase price, not including interest, insurance, closing costs, and
other finance charges less a reasonable depreciation on the product from
the date of original purchase. Warranty work can only be performed at our
authorized service centers. We will remedy the defect and ship the product
from the service center within a reasonable time after receipt of the
defective product at our authorized service center.

You must notify us of your need for warranty service not later than ninety
(90) days after expiration of the warranty period. All components must be
shipped in a factory pack. Corrective action will be taken within a
reasonable time of the date of receipt of the defective product by our
authorized service center. If the repairs made by our authorized service
center are not satisfactory, notify our authorized service center
immediately.

DISCLAIMER OF CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES

YOU ARE NOT ENTITLED TO RECOVER FROM US ANY INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE NEW CROWN
PRODUCT. THIS INCLUDES ANY DAMAGE TO ANOTHER PRODUCT
OR PRODUCTS RESULTING FROM SUCH A DEFECT.

No person has the authority to enlarge, amend, or modify this Crown
Warranty. This Crown Warranty is not extended by the length of time which
you are deprived of the use of the new Crown product. Repairs and
replacement parts provided under the terms of this Crown Warranty shall
carry only the unexpired portion of this Crown Warranty.

We reserve the right to change the design of any product from time to time
without notice and with no obligation to make corresponding changes in
products previously manufactured.

No action to enforce this Crown Warranty shall be commenced later than
ninety (90) days after expiration of the warranty period.

THIS STATEMENT OF WARRANTY SUPERSEDES ANY OTHERS

CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL FOR CROWN PRODUCTS.

Telephone: [phone]. Facsimile: 219-294-8301

SUMMARY OF WARRANTY

1

product, for a period of three (3) years from the date of

WHAT THE WARRANTOR WILL DO

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE

WARRANTY ALTERATIONS

DESIGN CHANGES

LEGAL REMEDIES OF PURCHASER

9/90

NORTH AMERICA

The Crown Audio Division of Crown International, Inc., 1718 West Mishawaka
Road, Elkhart, Indiana 46517-4095 U.S.A. warrants to you, the ORIGINAL
PURCHASER and ANY SUBSEQUENT OWNER of each NEW Crown product,
for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase by the original purchaser
(the “warranty period”) that the new Crown product is free of defects in materials
and workmanship. We further warrant the new Crown product regardless of the
reason for failure, except as excluded in this Warranty.

ITEMS EXCLUDED FROM THIS CROWN WARRANTY

This Crown Warranty is in effect only for failure of a new Crown product which
occurred within the Warranty Period. It does not cover any product which has
been damaged because of any intentional misuse, accident, negligence, or loss
which is covered under any of your insurance contracts. This Crown Warranty
also does not extend to the new Crown product if the serial number has been
defaced, altered, or removed.

We will remedy any defect, regardless of the reason for failure (except as
excluded), by repair, replacement, or refund. We may not elect refund unless you
agree, or unless we are unable to provide replacement, and repair is not practical
or cannot be timely made. If a refund is elected, then you must make the defective
or malfunctioning product available to us free and clear of all liens or other
encumbrances. The refund will be equal to the actual purchase price, not
including interest, insurance, closing costs, and other finance charges less a
reasonable depreciation on the product from the date of original purchase.
Warranty work can only be performed at our authorized service centers or at the
factory. We will remedy the defect and ship the product from the service center
or our factory within a reasonable time after receipt of the defective product at our
authorized service center or our factory. All expenses in remedying the defect,
including surface shipping costs in the United States, will be borne by us. (You
must bear the expense of shipping the product between any foreign country and
the port of entry in the United States and all taxes, duties, and other customs fees
for such foreign shipments.)

You must notify us of your need for warranty service not later than ninety (90)
days after expiration of the warranty period. All components must be shipped in
a factory pack, which, if needed, may be obtained from us free of charge.
Corrective action will be taken within a reasonable time of the date of receipt of
the defective product by us or our authorized service center. If the repairs made
by us or our authorized service center are not satisfactory, notify us or our
authorized service center immediately.

DISCLAIMER OF CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES

YOU ARE NOT ENTITLED TO RECOVER FROM US ANY INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE NEW CROWN
PRODUCT. THIS INCLUDES ANY DAMAGE TO ANOTHER PRODUCT OR
PRODUCTS RESULTING FROM SUCH A DEFECT. SOME STATES DO

NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR
EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

No person has the authority to enlarge, amend, or modify this Crown Warranty.
This Crown Warranty is not extended by the length of time which you are
deprived of the use of the new Crown product. Repairs and replacement parts
provided under the terms of this Crown Warranty shall carry only the unexpired
portion of this Crown Warranty.

We reserve the right to change the design of any product from time to time without
notice and with no obligation to make corresponding changes in products
previously manufactured.

THIS CROWN WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, YOU
MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
No action to enforce this Crown Warranty shall be commenced later than ninety
(90) days after expiration of the warranty period.

THIS STATEMENT OF WARRANTY SUPERSEDES ANY OTHERS

CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL FOR CROWN PRODUCTS.

Telephone: [phone]. Facsimile: 219-294-8301

SUMMARY OF WARRANTY

WHAT THE WARRANTOR WILL DO

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE

WARRANTY ALTERATIONS

DESIGN CHANGES

LEGAL REMEDIES OF PURCHASER

9/90

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

Important Safety Instructions

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 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 grounding­type 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, 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 tip­over.

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) To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not ex­pose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

Reference Manual

Page 3

The information furnished in 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. If your unit bears the name “Amcron,” please substitute it for the name “Crown” in this manual. If you need
special assistance beyond the scope of this manual, please contact our Technical Support Group.

Crown Audio Technical Support Group

Plant 2 SW, 1718 W. Mishawaka Rd., Elkhart, Indiana 46517 U.S.A.

Phone: [phone] (North America, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) or 219-294-8200

Fax: [phone] Internet: http://www.crownaudio.com

DANGER: This amplifier can produce lethal levels of

output power! Be very careful when making connections. Do

The lightning bolt

triangle is used to

alert the user to the

risk of electric shock.

not attempt to change the output wiring unless AC power has
been removed from the amplifier for at least 10 seconds.

WARNING: This unit is capable of producing very high

sound pressure levels. Continuous exposure to high sound

The exclamation

point triangle is

used to alert the

user to important

operating or

maintenance

instructions.

pressure levels can cause permanent hearing impairment or
loss. Caution is advised and ear protection recommended
when playing at high volumes.

C A U T I O N

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO

NOT REMOVE TOP OR BOTTOM

COVERS. NO USER SERVICEABLE

PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO

QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

DISCONNECT POWER CORD BE-

FORE REMOVING REAR INPUT

MODULE TO ACCESS GAIN SWITCH.

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE!

A V I S

RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE

N’OUVREZ PAS

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.

DÉBRANCHER LA BORNE AVANT

D’OUVRIR LA MODULE EN ARRIÈRE.

Magnetic Field

CAUTION! Operation of high power amplifiers

generates magnetic fields which may distort sig­nals in sensitive equipment. To avoid magneti­cally induced noice in highly sensitive equipment
such as audio processors, mixers, or other equip­ment having high gain and low signal levels, do
not mount or use these products within 19.7
inches (50 cm) of this Crown amplifier.

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

CONTENTS

1 Welcome ................................................................................. 8

1.1 Why So Much Power? ....................................................... 8

1.2 Unpacking ........................................................................ 8

1.3 Features ........................................................................... 9

2 Facilities................................................................................ 10

3 Installation ............................................................................ 13

3.1 Mounting ........................................................................ 13

3.2 Cooling ........................................................................... 13

3.3 Wiring ............................................................................ 14

3.3.1 Stereo (Two-Channel) Operation .......................... 14

3.3.2 Bridge-Mono Operation ....................................... 15

3.3.3 Parallel-Mono Operation ...................................... 16

3.3.4 Input Connection ................................................. 17

3.3.5 Output Connection .............................................. 18

3.3.6 Additional Load Protection ................................... 20

3.4 AC Mains Power Requirements ...................................... 21

4 Operation .............................................................................. 22

4.1 Precautions..................................................................... 22

4.2 Indicators ....................................................................... 22

4.3 Protection Systems ......................................................... 24

ODEP ..................................................................

4.3.1

4.3.2 Standby ............................................................... 24

4.3.3 Transformer Thermal Protection ........................... 25

4.3.4 Power Supply Fuses ............................................ 25

4.4 Controls .......................................................................... 26

4.5 Filter Cleaning ................................................................. 27

5 Technical Information ........................................................... 28

5.1 Overview ........................................................................ 28

5.2 VZ Power ........................................................................ 28

5.2.1 Background ......................................................... 28

5.2.2 The VZ Supply ..................................................... 29

5.3 Circuit Theory ................................................................. 29

5.3.1 Stereo Operation ................................................. 29

5.3.2 Bridge-Mono Operation ....................................... 32

5.3.3 Parallel-Mono Operation ...................................... 32

5.3.4 Terminator Module ............................................... 32

5.3.5. Display Module.................................................... 32

6 Specifications ....................................................................... 33

7 AC Power Draw and Thermal Dissipation ............................ 39

24

8 Accessories .......................................................................... 40

PIP

8.1

8.2 Level Control Security Kit ................................................ 42

Page 6

Modules ................................................................... 40

Reference Manual

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

9 Service .................................................................................. 43

9.1 Worldwide Service .......................................................... 43

9.2 North American Service .................................................. 43

9.2.1 Service at a North American Service Center ........ 43

9.2.2 Factory Service .................................................... 43

1.1

Macro-Tech 5002VZ

2.1 Front Facilities ......................................................................... 10

2.2 Front Facilities behind the Filter Grille ..................................... 11

2.3 Rear Facilities ......................................................................... 12

2.4 International Output Binding Posts .......................................... 12

2.5 Output Cover .......................................................................... 12

3.1 Mounting Dimensions ............................................................. 13

3.2 Top View of a Rack-Mounted Unit ........................................... 13

3.3 Proper Air Flow in a Rack Cabinet ........................................... 13

3.4 Stereo Wiring .......................................................................... 14

3.5 Bridge-Mono Wiring ................................................................ 15

3.6 Parallel-Mono Wiring ............................................................... 16

3.7 Unbalanced Input Wiring ........................................................ 17

3.8 Balanced Input Wiring ............................................................ 17

3.9 Balanced and Unbalanced Phone Plug Wiring ....................... 17

3.10 Loudspeaker Offset Integration Switch ................................... 18

3.11 Input Ground Lift Switch .......................................................... 18

3.12 Wire Size Nomograph ............................................................. 19

3.13 Loudspeaker Fuse Nomograph .............................................. 20

4.1 Indicators ................................................................................ 22

4.2

Macro-Tech 5002VZ

4.3 Input Sensitivity, LOI and Compressor Switches ..................... 26

4.4 Channel 1 VZ Mode Switch (Behind Filter) .............................. 27

5.1 A Typical Power Supply .......................................................... 29

5.2 Music Waveforms.................................................................... 29

5.3 VZ High-Current Mode ............................................................ 29

5.4 VZ High-Voltage Mode ............................................................ 29

5.5 Circuit Block Diagram ............................................................. 30

6.1 Minimum Power Matrix ............................................................ 35

6.2 Maximum Power Matrix ........................................................... 36

6.3 Typical Frequency Response .................................................. 37

6.4 Typical Damping Factor .......................................................... 37

6.5 Typical Output Impedance ...................................................... 37

6.6 Typical Phase Response ......................................................... 38

6.7 Typical Crosstalk ..................................................................... 38

7.1 Power Draw, Current Draw and Thermal Dissipation ............... 39

8.1 PIP2 Adaptor Connection ........................................................ 40

8.2 Installing a PIP Module ............................................................ 40

8.3 Installing a PIP2 Module .......................................................... 40

8.4 Installing MA-LOCK Level Control Shaft Locks ....................... 42

Contents continued...

ILLUSTRATIONS

Amplifier ................................................... 8

Indicator States ...................................... 23

Printed on

recycled paper.

Reference Manual

Page 7

Fig. 1.1 Macro-Tech 5002VZ Amplifier

1 Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of a Macro-Tech
5002VZ.® You have selected one of the most reliable,
powerful and cost-effective professional amplifiers ever
made. From now on, you can enjoy the advantages of
having the highest level of innovation available in any
amplifier at any price.

The Macro-Tech 5002VZ is the most advanced ampli­fier to offer Crown’s patented Variable Impedance (VZ)
power supply technology. New semiconductor technol­ogy is combined with superior VZ power supplies to
enable the Macro-Tech 5002VZ to pack unprecedented
power levels into 5¼ inches (13.3 cm) of vertical rack
space. And because it is a Macro-Tech, you have the
benefit of ODEP® protection to keep the show going
long after other amplifiers have failed—even under the
most severe conditions. In addition, your amplifier pro­vides enhanced PIP2 compatibility, which makes it easy
to customize with a variety of popular input modules
(see Section 8.1 for a list of available PIPTM and PIP2
modules).

This manual will help you successfully install and use
your new amplifier. Please read all instructions, warn­ings and cautions. Be sure to read Sections 3.3.2 and

3.3.3 if you plan to use one of the amplifier’s two mono
modes. Also for your protection, please send in your
warranty registration card today and save your bill of
sale because it is your official proof of purchase.

1.1 Why So Much Power?

The Macro-Tech 5002VZ can deliver up to 2,500 watts
per channel into 2-ohm stereo loads or 5,000 watts
bridged into a single 4-ohm load.* That’s a lot of power
for a unit that is only 5¼ inches (13.3 cm) tall and weighs
less than 80 pounds (36.3 kg).

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

®

There are many reasons to use amplifiers with an ex­tremely high power density. As more loudspeakers are
driven with fewer amplifiers, audio systems become
more compact and efficient. If the system is used for
touring, this can reduce shipping costs and setup time.
But concentrating so much power in one amplifier cre­ates potential hazards that can permanently ruin your
day. Your amplifier is capable of delivering enough elec­trical power at the output terminals to produce a lethal
shock. If used improperly, it can also drive loudspeak­ers to levels that will cause permanent hearing dam­age. For these reasons, we have included appropriate
warnings and cautions in this manual.

1.2 Unpacking

Please unpack and inspect your new amplifier for any
damage that may have occurred during transit. If dam­age is found, notify the transportation company imme­diately. Only you, the consignee, may initiate a claim for
shipping damage. Crown will be happy to cooperate
fully as needed. Save the shipping carton as evidence
of damage for the shipper’s inspection.

Even if the unit arrived in perfect condition, as most
do, 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.

*Minimum guaranteed standard 1 kHz power with 120 volt,

60 Hz AC mains. See Section 6 for other AC mains

voltages and frequencies.

Page 8

Reference Manual

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

1.3 Features

The Macro-Tech 5002VZ uses the very latest technology
and miniaturized design to provide the highest power and
value for its size, weight and price. Its patented Grounded
Bridge™ circuitry offers many advantages over conven­tional designs. In Stereo mode, the amplifier’s separate
high-voltage supplies and ultra-low crosstalk make it pos­sible to treat each channel as an independent amplifier.
Here are some more of its impressive features:

❏ Patented Variable Impedance (VZ) power supplies for

each channel provide the best power matching to your
load. Three special modes are provided to control how
and when the supplies shift impedance modes.

❏ Crown’s Grounded Bridge design delivers extreme volt-

age swings without using easily stressed output transistor
configurations like conventional amplifiers. The results
are lower distortion and superior reliability.

❏ Patented ODEP (Output Device Emulation Protection) cir-

cuitry detects and compensates for overheating and
overload to keep the amplifier working when others would
fail. In addition, ODEP can be used to control the VZ
power supplies by shifting them into high-current mode
based on the requirements of the immediate conditions.

❏ IOC

❏ Enhanced PIP2 (Programmable Input Processor) design

❏ Convenient front panel indicators include an Enable indi-

❏ Full protection against overvoltage, shorted outputs, mis-

❏ “Standby” mode protects loudspeakers from low-

❏ Innovative Loudspeaker Offset Integration (LOI) circuitry

®

(Input/Output Comparator) circuitry immediately
alerts you of any distortion that exceeds 0.05%, providing
dynamic proof of distortion-free performance.

accepts accessory modules that tailor the amplifier to suit
individual applications, including wide-band load current
monitoring.

cator for the low-voltage power supply, and an ODEP,
Signal Presence/IOC and I

Load/ILimit

indicator for each

channel.

matched loads, general overheating, DC and
high-frequency/RF overloads. Full internal fault protec­tion.

frequency/DC output, turn-on/turn-off transients and other
transients that can occur during an AC brownout.
Standby mode also provides overvoltage protection from
AC mains of more than 11% over the rated voltage.

prevents asymmetrical audio waveforms from causing
off-center woofer cone movement.

sor that can be set for fast or slow attack and release
times.

❏ Two custom toroidal power transformers (one per chan-

nel) provide maximum power transfer with minimum
electromagnetic fields.

❏ The soft-start feature slowly brings the power supplies up

to full voltage to avoid tripping the breaker that protects
your AC wiring.

❏ Universal power supplies can be easily reconfigured for

different AC mains voltages, making the amplifier conve­nient for use around the world.

❏ Low harmonic and intermodulation distortion give the

best dynamic transfer function in the industry.

❏ Superior damping factor delivers maximum loudspeaker

motion control.

❏ Balanced inputs for each channel have independent

three-way input sensitivity switches.

❏ The factory-installed PIP2-FXQ includes a ground lift

switch that can be used to isolate the AC (chassis)
ground from the XLR and phone jack input grounds.

❏ Internal test ports provide rapid manufacturing and ser-

vice diagnostics.

❏ Internal diagnostics LEDs make it easy to identify internal

operating conditions in the field.

❏ Modular design makes service and maintenance much

more convenient.

❏ The super-efficient cooling system features front-to-back

air flow with cutting edge heat sinks and proportional on­demand forced-air cooling to prevent overheating and
prolong component life.

❏ New touring chassis is extremely rugged and has been

torture-tested with over 100,000 miles of simulated road
abuse—even passing mil. spec. shock and vibration
testing.

❏ Extruded aluminum front panel provides extra strength to

resist physical damage.

❏ Rack mountable in a standard 19-inch (48.3-cm) equip-

ment rack (the back of the amplifier should be supported)
or units can be stacked directly on top of each other.

❏ Three year “No-Fault” full warranty completely protects your

investment and guarantees its specifications.

❏ Each channel has an independent, error-driven compres-

Reference Manual

Page 9

2 Facilities

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

Fig. 2.1 Front Facilities

A. Dust Filters

The dust filters remove large particles from air drawn in
by the cooling fans. Check the filters regularly to pre­vent clogging (see Sections 3.2 and 4.5).

B. Level Controls

The output level for each channel is set with these con­venient front panel level controls. Each control has
31 detents for precise adjustment (see Section 4.4). A
security option is also available to prevent tampering
(see Section 8.2).

C. I

Load/ILimit

The flow of current to the loudspeakers (“load current”)
and the maximum current limit of the amplifier (“limit
current”) are monitored by these two-color front panel
indicators. Normally, the I
green to show that load current is flowing. They turn off
when there is no significant load current. This happens
when there is no input signal, the input signal is at an
extremely low level, or there are no loads connected to
the amplifier’s outputs. They turn red if the amplifier has
reached its maximum output current capacity.

The I

Load/ILimit

the amplifier for maximum output. Just continue to connect
additional loudspeakers in parallel with each output until
the I

Load/ILimit

conditions. The optimum load is achieved just before the
indicator turns red (see Section 4.2).

D. Signal/

These green multifunction indicators show both signal
presence and distortion for each channel. As signal
presence indicators, they flash synchronously with the
amplifier’s audio output. As IOC (Input/Output Com-

Indicators

Load/ILimit

indicators are very useful when loading

indicator turns red under normal operating

IOC

Indicators

indicators glow

parator) indicators, they flash brightly with a 0.1 second
hold delay if there is a difference of 0.05% or more be­tween the input and output audio waveforms. IOC “er­rors” occur most commonly when a large input signal
causes an input overload or output clipping. The IOC
function is also provided as

formance

E.

During normal operation of the ODEP (Output Device
Emulation Protection) circuitry, these amber indicators
glow brightly to show the presence of reserve thermal­dynamic energy. They dim proportionally as energy re­serves decrease. In the rare event that energy reserves
are depleted, the indicators turn off and ODEP propor­tionally limits output drive so the amplifier can safely
continue operating even under severe conditions.
These indicators also help to identify more unusual op­erating conditions (see Section 4.2).

(see Section 4.2).

ODEP

Indicators

proof of distortion-free per-

F. Enable Indicator

This indicator lights when the amplifier has been turned
on (enabled) and has AC power (see Section 4.2).

G. Enable Switch

This push button is used to turn the amplifier on and off.
When turned on, the output is muted for about four sec­onds to protect your system from start-up transients.
This is why a power sequencer is rarely needed for mul­tiple units. (The length of the turn-on delay can be
changed. Contact Crown’s Technical Support Group for
details.)

H. VZ Mode Switches

A four-position switch is used to control the switching

Page 10

Reference Manual

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

Fig. 2.2 Front Facilities behind the Filter Grille

mode for each power supply. The switches are located
behind the top dust filter about 1.75 inches (4.5 cm)
behind the front panel. Always turn off the power be-
fore changing either switch. To access the VZ mode
switches, remove the top dust filter and reach upward
through the grille opening with a long narrow noncon­ductive object like a plastic pen. The switches are easy
to locate with the aid of a flashlight. The switch for Chan­nel 1 is located to the left side of the amplifier, while the
switch for Channel 2 is located to the right.

From left to right, the four switch settings are VZ-ODEP,
Lock Low, VZ and VZ (the third and fourth switch posi­tions are identical). The first switch position sets the
power supply to the VZ-ODEP switching mode, which
is the default setting from the factory. The VZ-ODEP
mode automatically shifts between high-current and
high-voltage modes as needed, except when ODEP
actively limits output drive, in which case the power sup­ply is locked in its high-current mode. The second
switch position is called “Lock Low.” It locks the power
supply in high-current mode so the amplifier will always
be ready to deliver maximum current to low-impedance
loads. The third and fourth switch positions set the
power supply to standard VZ mode. Standard VZ mode
automatically switches between high-current and high­voltage modes as needed, but is not affected by ODEP
(see Section 4.4).

I. Stereo/Mono Switch

This switch is used to select one of three output modes.
Stereo mode is used for normal two-channel operation,
Bridge-Mono mode is used to drive a single channel
with a load impedance of at least 4 ohms, and Parallel­Mono mode is used to drive a single channel with a
load impedance less than 4 ohms. WARNING: The

amplifier should be off for at least 10 seconds be­fore changing this switch (see Section 3.3).

J. Compressor Switches

A three-position back panel switch is provided to con­trol each channel’s “error-driven” input compressor. At­tack and release times can be set to either “fast” or
“slow,” or compression can be turned off for output clip­ping errors. The “fast” setting yields a 4-millisecond at­tack time and 300-millisecond release time. The “slow”
setting yields a 12-millisecond attack and 600-millisec­ond release (see Section 4.4).

K. Loudspeaker Offset Integration Switches

Each channel has a two-position back panel on/off
switch used to control the Loudspeaker Offset Integra­tion (LOI) circuitry. LOI compensates for asymmetrical
audio waveforms that cause off-center woofer cone
movement (see Sections 3.3.4, 3.3.5 and 4.4).

L. Input Sensitivity Switches

These three-position back panel switches are used to
select the input sensitivity for each channel. Available
settings include 0.775 volts or 1.4 volts for standard
1 kHz output power, or a 26 dB voltage gain (see Sec­tion 4.4).

M. Power Cord

Units configured for 100 to 120 VAC have a 10-AWG,
30-amp line cord, while units set up for 200 to 240 VAC
have a 12-AWG, 20-amp line cord. North American
units configured for 120 VAC, 60 Hz power are shipped
with a grounded 125-volt, 30-amp NEMA TT30P plug;
units shipped outside North America are provided with­out a plug. See Sections 3.4 and 7 for AC requirements.

Reference Manual

Page 11

Fig. 2.3 Rear Facilities

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

N. Output Connectors

This high-current output block is provided for output
connection. Its connectors accept banana plugs,
spade lugs or bare wire. The detachable output cover
(S) shown in Figure 2.5 is used to protect against acci­dental short circuits and dangerous electrical shock.

DANGER: The outputs can produce lethal energy
levels! Do not change the output wiring unless the
amplifier has been off for at least 10 seconds.

Some international models include high-current bind­ing posts for output connection rather than the output
block shown in Figure 2.3. The international binding
posts are shown below in Figure 2.4:

Fig. 2.4 International Output Binding Posts

O.

PIP

Module

The standard PIP2-FXQ is included with your amplifier.
It provides female XLR and ¼-inch (6.35-mm) phone
jack input connectors. Each pair of XLR and phone jack
connectors is wired in parallel, so the unused connec­tor can be used as a “daisy chain” output to connect a
source to multiple amplifiers. Other
ules can be used in place of the PIP2-FXQ to provide
additional features that customize the amplifier for dif­ferent applications. Your amplifier is a
which means it can take advantage of the many ad­vanced features found in
your amp can also use standard
the

PIP2

logo). See Section 8.1 for available

PIP2

modules.

PIP2

PIP

and

PIP2

mod-

PIP2

amplifier,

modules. In addition,

PIP

modules (without

PIP

and

P. Balanced Phone Jack Inputs

A balanced ¼-inch (6.35-mm) phone jack for each
channel is provided on the PIP2-FXQ. These phone
jacks can be used for signal input, or for “daisy­chained” output to other amplifiers. The phone jacks
may be used with either balanced (tip, ring and sleeve)
or unbalanced (tip and sleeve) wiring (see Section 3.3).

Note: The Channel 2 input is bypassed in either mono
mode.

Q. Balanced XLR Inputs

A balanced 3-pin female XLR connector is provided on
the PIP2-FXQ for input to each channel, or for “daisy­chained” output to other amplifiers.

Note: The Channel 2

input is bypassed in either mono mode.

R. Input Ground Lift Switch

This ground lift switch is located on the PIP2-FXQ. It is
used to isolate the input signal grounds from the AC
(chassis) ground to help prevent ground loops that can
result in unwanted hum and noise.

S. Output Cover

This protective cover is provided to prevent an electri­cal shock or short circuit at the output terminals.

Fig. 2.5 Output Cover

Page 12

Reference Manual

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

3 Installation

3.1 Mounting

The

Macro-Tech 5002VZ

19 inch (48.3 cm) rack mounting and “stack” mounting
without a cabinet. For optimum cooling and rack sup­port, multiple units should be stacked directly on top of
each other.

Important: Always support the back of the unit. Pro­vide extra support if the unit will be transported.

Fig. 3.1 Mounting Dimensions

3.2 Cooling

NEVER block the air vents in the front or back of the
amplifier.
mounted with space between them. If you must leave
open spaces in a rack for any reason, close them with
blank panels or recirculation will result. Allow for air flow
of at least 75 cubic feet (2.1 cubic meters) per minute

Macro-Tech

is designed for standard

amplifiers do not need to be

per unit. Additional air flow may be required when driv­ing low-impedance loads at consistently high output
levels. Refer to Section 7 for detailed information on ther­mal dissipation.

When mounting the amplifier in a rack cabinet, the back
wall of the rack should be at least 3 inches (7.6 cm)
away from the back of the amplifier chassis as shown in
Figure 3.2.

Tip: An easy way to verify adequate cooling is to ob­serve the ODEP indicators while the amplifier is operat­ing under worst-case conditions. If the indicators dim,
additional cooling is recommended.

If your rack has a door that could block air flow to the
amplifier’s air intakes, you must provide adequate air
flow by installing a grille in the door or by pressurizing
the air behind the door. Wire grilles are recommended
over perforated panels because they tend to cause less
air restriction. A good choice for pressurizing the air
behind the rack cabinet door is to mount a “squirrel
cage” blower inside the rack (Option 1 below). At the
bottom of the rack, mount the blower so it blows outside
air into the space between the door and front of the
amplifiers, pressurizing the “chimney” behind the door.
This blower should not blow air into or take air out of the
space behind the amplifiers. For racks without a door,
you can evacuate the rack by mounting the blower at
the top of the rack so that air inside the cabinet is drawn
out the back (Option 2 below).

WARM

EXHAUST

BLOWER

(OPTION 2)

FRONT

OF

RACK

DOOR

Fig. 3.2 Top View of a Rack-Mounted Unit

Reference Manual

EQUIPMENT

RACK

(SIDE VIEW)

COOL AIR

INLET

BLOWER

(OPTION 1)

Fig. 3.3 Proper Air Flow in a Rack Cabinet

If the air supply is unusually dusty, you might want to
pre-filter it using commercial furnace filters to prevent
rapid loading of the unit’s own air filters. When needed,
the unit’s filters can be cleaned with mild dish detergent
and water (see Section 4.5).

Page 13

Macro-Tech 5002VZ Power Amplifier

3.3 Wiring

The following instructions describe the most common
ways to install your amplifier in a sound system. The
input and output terminals are located on the back
panel. Please use care when making connections, se­lecting signal sources and controlling the output level.
The load you save may be your own! Crown assumes
no liability for personal injury or damaged loads from
careless amplifier use or deliberate overpowering. All
units include an output cover to prevent accidental elec­trical shock and short circuits. We strongly recommend
that you use this safety feature.

DANGER: The outputs can produce lethal energy
levels. Do not change the output wiring unless the
amplifier has been off for at least 10 seconds. Turn-

ing off the amplifier also reduces the chance of blasts
that can damage your hearing or loudspeakers.

Your amplifier can be operated in Stereo, Bridge-Mono,
or Parallel-Mono mode by switching the back panel ste-

STEREO

PARALLEL

MONO

CAUTION

BEFORE CHANGING THIS SWITCH!

BRIDGE

MONO

: TURN OFF AMPLIFIER

STEREO MODE

reo/mono switch. Turn off the amplifier and wait at
least 10 seconds before changing this switch or in­ternal damage to the circuitry may result. There are

VERY IMPORTANT wiring differences among the three
operating modes that will be discussed next.

3.3.1 Stereo (Two-Channel) Operation

In Stereo mode, installation is intuitive: input Channel 1
feeds output Channel 1, and input Channel 2 feeds out­put Channel 2. To activate Stereo mode, first turn off the
amplifier and wait 10 seconds for the power supply to
discharge. Then, slide the stereo/mono switch to the
center position, and connect the output wiring as shown
in Figure 3.4.

CAUTION: In Stereo mode, never parallel the two
outputs by directly tying them together, and never
parallel them with the output of another amplifier.

Such a connection does not result in increased power
output, but may result in overheating and premature ac­tivation of the protection circuitry.

MIXER

Macro-Tech 5002VZ

PARALLEL

MONO

STEREO

BRIDGE
MONO

CH-2 OUTPUTS CH-1 OUTPUTS

+

–

CHANNEL 2

LOUDSPEAKERS

CHANNEL 2 CHANNEL 1

FXQ

PUSHPUSH

+– +– +–

CHANNEL 1

LOUDSPEAKERS

Fig. 3.4 Stereo Wiring

Page 14

Reference Manual