Crunch PZA700.2, PZA1400.2, PZA1800.2, PZA900.4, PZA1200.4 Instruction Manual
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PZA700.2 / PZA1400.2 / PZA1800.2 PZA900.4 / PZA1200.4 / PZA1600.4 PZA1500.1 / PZA2000.1
POWERZONE PZA SERIES AMPLIFIERS
The PowerZone Series products have been designed to a very high level of performance, with features unavailable in any other product. All of the amplifiers have variable crossovers built in, with added touches such as subsonic filter, bass equalization and a remote Level control module (some models) that allows subwoofer Level control from the drivers seat.
To ensure years of listening pleasure, all amplifiers have a built in diagnostic mode that will detect shorted speaker leads, low impedance, dangerous high temperatures, DC shorts and will shut down the amp to prevent serious damage.
INDEX |
PAGE |
General Installation Procedure.......................................................................................................................................................................................... |
1 |
Amplifier Feature Descriptions........................................................................................................................................................................................... |
2 |
PZA700.2 / PZA1400.2 / PZA1800.2 2-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS............................................................................................................ |
3 |
Full range stereo / mono |
|
PZA900.4 / PZA1200.4 / PZA1600.4 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS......................................................................................................... |
4-5 |
4, 3 and 2 channel operation / front/rear high pass using a 2 channel model for mono sub bass |
|
PZA1500.1 / PZA2000.1 1 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS............................................................................................................................... |
6 |
Basic mono amplifier application |
|
Features and Specifications............................................................................................................................................................................................... |
7 |
Setting Up Systems After Installation For Best Performance............................................................................................................................................... |
8 |
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics....................................................................................................................................................................................... |
9 |
Product Warranty............................................................................................................................................................................................................. |
10 |
Check out our videos of new products,
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The contents of this manual may not be reproduced or copied with out the written consent of MAXXSONICS USA, Inc.
GENERAL INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
System Design
The success of any car stereo system relies on several factors, such as the system design, execution of the installation, and system setup. Please remember that any system is only as good as its weakest link.
Please remember that higher power systems are not necessarily useful purely for high sound pressure levels, but also to establish a headroom capability, to reproduce musical peaks cleanly without distortion. Lower power amplifiers will clip earlier than their more powerful cousins, and cause loudspeaker failure when overdriven, due to the harmonics generated by a clipped signal, thus overheating voice coils.
Amplifiers should be mounted with the fins running horizontally for best convection cooling, to minimize overheating. Purchase the best quality RCA cables you can afford, for reliability and less engine noise interference in the audio system.
Installation
WOOD
It is highly recommended that the amplifier be mounted to a board of MDF or other solid structure using the 4 mounting screws provided. Avoid mounting the
amplifier to metal as this can introduce noise and other unwanted issues. When mounting the amplifier, ensure that it is mounted HORIZONTALLY, as shown in the diagram above, for optimal heat dissipation. Mounting amplifiers to speaker enclosures is not recommended as this can cause damage to the amplifier components. When choosing a location for mounting the amplifier, ensure that you check for clearance from wires, gas tank, electrical devices and brake lines etc.
General:
Run the wiring so that RCA cables are at least 18“ away from power and speaker cables. Keep RCA cables away from electrical devices in the vehicle that can cause electrical noise, such as electric fuel pumps, emission control modules and other on-board electronic modules.
Power and ground connections(see the features matrix on page 7 for proper gauge cables per amplifier):
Use a sufficient gauge power cable and ground cable using the chart below as reference to what size wire you require. PowerZone series amplifiers require at least 4 gauge power wire. In a multi amplifier system, add the total value of the manufacture recommended fusing to get your total system amperage. Some applications may require multiple runs of power wire to meet the system requirements. In multi amplifier systems it is advisable to mount a large enough fuse right at the battery, and run one or multiple +12 volt power cables to a fused distribution block near the amplifiers. It is then a simple matter to connect the +12 volt terminal of each amplifier to the distribution block. During this process, please ensure that the main power fuse is removed to avoid shorting the electrical system. The main fuse must be within 12” of the vehicles battery.
Ground each amplifier with as short a ground lead as possible directly to the vehicle chassis using at least 4 gauge wire or equivalent to the size of the amplifiers’ power wire. Use a ground distribution block, if you wish, but it is extremely important to keep the main ground lead from this distribution block to the chassis as short as possible , not more than 12“. The ground connection integrity to the chassis is very important, and the best way to achieve a good, solid electrical and mechanical contact is to use a large round crimp lug, crimped and soldered to the ground cable. The next step is to scrape the paint off the vehicle chassis , slightly larger than the ground lug, at the connection point. Drill a clearance hole in the chassis, the same size as the lug hole, and use a bolt, spring washer and nut to securely fasten the ground lug. Use petroleum jelly to coat the bolt/lug connection, to prevent oxidization with time.
TIP: Use the same approach when installing head units, equalizers or any audio equipment for that matter - run short individual grounds from each piece directly to the vehicle chassis, to minimize ground loops and system noise. All power, ground and speaker connections should be crimped and soldered for reliability. Make sure that none of the cable insulation can chafe against exposed metal in the vehicle, causing short circuits to the chassis.
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WIRE LENGTH |
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SYSTEM |
7-10 ft. |
10-13 ft. |
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13-16 ft. |
16-19 ft. |
19-22 ft. |
22-28 ft. |
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AMPERAGE |
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||||||
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35-50 |
8 |
6 |
|
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
WIRE |
50-65 |
6 |
4 |
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4 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
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GAUGE |
85-105 |
4 |
2 |
|
2 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
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68-85 |
4 |
4 |
|
2 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
105-125 |
4 |
2 |
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
125-150 |
2 |
0 |
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
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|
|
|
|
|
NOTE: This Matrix is a general rule of thumb. Please refer to the manufacturers specific requirements. PZA specifications can be found on page 7.
Safe connection sequence:
After all cables are run, connect speaker wires to the speakers and amplifiers, then run and plug in RCA cables. Next, connect all power, ground, and remote turn on leads. Now connect all +12 volt cables to the amplifier/s and distribution blocks and fuse holders. Finally, connect the main +12 volt cable to the battery, with the main fuse removed, and we are almost ready to power up the system.
Power up the system:
The following procedure may seem like overkill, but there is nothing more frustrating when turning on a system for the first time, and it does not work properly immediately.
First, make sure the head unit is off, and turn all level controls to minimum (counterclockwise), including the head unit volume control. Set all equalizers to 0 dB (no boost), and all crossover frequency controls at approximate frequencies, as recommended by the loudspeaker manufacturer. Set all input selector and crossover switches as required for the application. Remove all amplifier fuses, and insert the main fuse at the battery. If the fuse does not blow, you can insert the fuse in one of the amplifiers, and we are ready to turn on the system. Turn the head unit on, insert a CD, or select a radio station, and increase the head unit volume control. If the system sounds fine, turn off the head unit, and install fuses in the remaining amplifiers, one by one, till the complete system is powered up and functioning properly.
1
AMPLIFIER FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS
POWERZONE AMPLIFIERS:
Each model is capable of 4 & 2-Ohms stereo per channel, or 4-Ohms mono bridged operation except the mono amps which are capable of 4, 2 and 1-Ohm loads.
The input sensitivities for rated output powers are variable from 0.2V to 5V on the multi channel amplifiers and 0.2V to 6V on the mono models.
All crossovers are fully variable in their respective ranges. Crossover filters are 12dB/Octave.
A POWER LED indicates the powered up and turned on condition.
All Crunch amplifiers feature a comprehensive diagnostic system, with speaker lead short circuit, and amplifier DC faults indicated by the red “PROTECT” LED.
CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE ANY AMPLIFIER BELOW THE INTENDED IMPEDANCE. YOU WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER THAT WILL NOT BE COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY PRINTED IN THE BACK OF THE MANUAL. 2 & 4 Channel amps are capable of 4 and 2-Ohms wired stereo and 4-Ohms wired mono bridged. The mono amps are capable of 4, 2 and 1-Ohm.
PZA700.2 / PZA1400.2 / PZA1800.2 2-CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS
L L
LEVEL |
BASS EQ HPF |
LPF |
X-OVER |
MODE |
+ - gnd - + |
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HI INPUT |
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5V 0.2V |
0dB 12dB 60Hz 1.2KHz |
30Hz 250Hz |
FULL LPF HPF |
MONO STEREO |
R R
LINE OUT LINE INPUT
The X-OVER slide switch selects the internal crossover functions:
-The input signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, regardless of the X-OVER setting simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers. -HPF: Selects the built in HIGH PASS filter, variable from 60 Hz to 1.2kHz.
-FULL: Bypasses all crossovers for full frequency range operation. -LPF: Selects the built in LOW PASS , variable from 30 Hz to 250Hz. -BASS EQ: Adjustable 45Hz bass boost from 0dB to 12dB.
MODE: The mode switch allows you to choose Stereo for full range 2 channel operation or MONO for bridging operation HIGH INPUT: If your radio/CD player does not have unbalanced (RCA) outputs, you can use the HIGH level (wire) inputs. LINE INPUT: The line input accepts unbalanced (RCA) inputs from 0.2V to 5V.
LINE OUTPUT: The line output passes through signal from the line inputs which allows you to daisy chain multiple amplifiers from one signal.
Note that the LOW PASS signal is MONO.
-In the LPF position, the HIGH PASS filter acts as a subsonic filter.
-When the LPF mode is selected, a 0 to +12dB, at 45Hz, BASS -EQ is also switched in.
PZA900.4 / PZA1200.4 / PZA1600.4 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS
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CHANNEL 3 / 4 |
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CH3/4 CH1/2 |
LEVEL BASS EQ HPF |
LPF |
X-OVER |
MODE |
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Ch3 Ch4 |
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R |
R |
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2 3 4 |
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+ - gnd - + |
5V |
0.2V |
0dB |
12dB |
60Hz 1.2KHz 30Hz 250Hz |
FULL LPF HPF |
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HI INPUT |
LEVEL |
BASS EQ |
HPF |
LPF |
X-OVER |
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L |
+ - gnd - + |
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L |
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LINE INPUT |
Ch1 Ch2 |
5V |
0.2V |
0dB |
12dB |
60Hz 1.2KHz 30Hz 250Hz |
FULL LPF HPF |
LINE OUTPUT |
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CHANNEL 1 / 2
The 4 channel amps have the same features as the 2 channel models accept that there are 2 sets of controls. 1 set for channels 1 & 2 and 1 set for channels 3 & 4.
In addition, the 4 channel models have a Mode switch which allows you to select 2, 3 or 4 channel operation. Switch to 2 channel if you only have 1 set of RCA’s in CH 1/2 and the unit will automatically supply signal to channels 3/4. Select 3 channel when you only have RCA’s in CH 1/2 but plan to run channels 3/4 bridged. Select 4 channel if you are providing RCA’s to channels 1/2 and 3/4.
The X-OVER slide switch selects the internal crossover functions:
-The input signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, regardless of the X-OVER setting simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers. -HPF: Selects the built in HIGH PASS filter, variable from 60 Hz to 1.2kHz.
-FULL: Bypasses all crossovers for full frequency range operation. -LPF: Selects the built in LOW PASS , variable from 30 Hz to 250Hz. -BASS EQ: Adjustable 45Hz bass boost from 0dB to 12dB.
LINE INPUT: The line input accepts unbalanced (RCA) inputs from 0.2V to 5V.
LINE OUTPUT: The line output passes through signal from the line inputs which allows you to daisy chain multiple amplifiers from one signal.
Note that the LOW PASS signal is MONO.
-In the LPF position, the HIGH PASS filter acts as a subsonic filter.
-When the LPF mode is selected, a 0 to +12dB, at 45Hz, BASS -EQ is also switched in.
PZA1500.1 / PZA2000.1 MONO BLOCK AMPLIFIERS
|
REMOTE |
BASS |
SUB |
LOW |
OUTPUT |
INPUT |
POWER |
CONTROL |
BOOST |
SONIC |
LEVEL |
L |
L |
PASS |
||||||
PROTECT |
|
0dB 12dB |
15Hz 55Hz |
40Hz 150Hz 6V 0.2V |
R |
R |
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-The LINE INPUT signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, regardless of the X-OVER setting simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers. -SUBSONIC: Allows you to adjust the crossover filter from 15Hz to 55Hz.
-LOWPASS: Allows yo to adjust the LOW PASS crossover filter from 40Hz to 150Hz. LEVEL: Adjusts the input sensitivity from 0.2 volts to 6 volts.
BASSBOOST: 45Hz bass boost adjustable from 0db to 12dB. REMOTE CONTROL: This is the input jack for the remote Level control.
LINE INPUT: The line input accepts unbalanced (RCA) inputs from 0.2V to 6V.
LINE OUTPUT: The line output passes through signal from the line inputs which allows you to daisy chain multiple amplifiers from one signal.
The mono amps are capable of 4, 2 & 1-Ohm loads.
Operating the amp below 1-Ohm can cause damage to the amp not covered in the warranty.
2
PZA700.2 / PZA1400.2 / PZA1800.2 2 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
FULL RANGE STEREO
This is the most basic application for the PZA Series 2 channel amplifiers.
1. Interconnect cable checklist:
Connect the LINE INPUTS to the Radio/CD with good quality RCA cables.
2. Crossover Switch:
The X-OVER switch must be in the FULL position.
3. Crossover frequency control checklist:
N/A for full range operation.
FULL RANGE |
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STEREO LINE INPUT |
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OUTLINE |
R |
L |
LINE |
R |
L |
INPUT |
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- + HI |
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+ - gnd INPUT |
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2V.0 5V |
LEVEL |
|
12dB 0dB |
EQ BASS |
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2KHz.1 60Hz |
HPF |
|
250Hz 30Hz |
LPF |
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HPF LPF FULL |
OVER-X |
|
STEREO MONO |
MODE |
4. MODE:
Should be in the STEREO position.
5. Line Level:
Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best performance”
NOTE: Minimum final loudspeaker impedances: 4 & 2 Ohms stereo mode or 4-Ohms mono mode
This amplifier will not do 1 Ohm stereo or 2/1 Ohm mono operation.
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FULL RANGE |
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SPEAKERS |
SPEAKER OUTPUT |
BRIDGED |
- LEFT + - RIGHT + |
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POWER PROTECT |
INPUTPOWER |
FUSE |
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REMGNDBATT+12V |
CHASSIS GROUND |
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TO BATTERY +12v |
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VIA FUSE |
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REMOTE TURN-ON |
MONO
This application illustrates the basic mono bridging method for all Crunch amplifiers.
Interconnect cable checklist:
A MONO signal source is required, such as would be available from the mono sub bass output of an active crossover, whether stand alone, or built into a head unit or equalizer. Important: Do not be tempted to connect the hot, or positive outputs, from any source together to obtain a mono signal, as this could very well damage the output stage of that source.
It is necessary to feed the SAME signal to both left and right inputs via a Y-adapter RCA cable. Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the RIGHT +, and its negative terminal to LEFT -.
FULL RANGE |
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MONO LINE INPUT |
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VIA Y-ADAPTER |
OUTLINE |
R |
L |
FROM MONO SOURCE |
LINE |
R |
L |
INPUT |
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- + HI |
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+ - gnd INPUT |
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2V.0 5V |
LEVEL |
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12dB 0dB |
EQ BASS |
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2KHz.1 60Hz |
HPF |
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250Hz 30Hz |
LPF |
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HPF LPF FULL |
OVER-X |
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STEREO MONO |
MODE |
Switch setting checklist:
- The AMPLIFIER X-OVER switch should be in the LPF position and the MODE should be in the MONO position.
Crossover frequency control setting checklist:
LPF: 11 o’clock
Minimum final loudspeaker impedance: - 4 ohm mono.
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MONO SPEAKER |
SPEAKER OUTPUT |
BRIDGED |
- LEFT + - RIGHT + |
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POWER PROTECT |
INPUTPOWER |
FUSE |
|
REMGNDBATT+12V |
CHASSIS GROUND |
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TO BATTERY +12v |
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VIA FUSE |
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REMOTE TURN-ON |
The HIGH LEVEL inputs are used when the radio/CD player does not have RCA cable outputs. You can connect the radio/CD player speaker wires directly to the amplifier via the high Level Inputs.
Use this connector for 2 CH amplifiers |
Use both connectors for 4 CH amplifiers |
GRAY: CH 1 Speaker Input + |
ORANGE: CH 3 Speaker Input + |
BROWN: CH 1 Speaker input - |
PINK: CH 3 Speaker input - |
Black: Chassis Ground |
Black: Chassis Ground |
GREEN: CH 2 Speaker Input - |
BLUE: CH 4 Speaker Input - |
White: CH 2 Speaker Input + |
YELLOW: CH 4 Speaker Input + |
3
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