Hybrid Audio Technologies U4A, U5A, U6A, U1A Owner's Manual & Installation Manual

1240 Oak Industrial Lane Cumming Georgia 30041 United States

Unity-Series Ampliﬁers

Owner’s Manual & Installation Guide

(T) +1 770 888 8200 (F) +1 888 886 4605

hybrid-audio.com

High-end mobile audio is our passion! When installed and set-up properly, the Unity Amplier you have purchased will make a remarkable improvement in the sound quality of virtually any mobile audio sound system and give years of superior performance.

With the publication of this manual, it is our goal to assist the “do it yourself” enthusiast and professional installer alike in getting the highest level of performance out of this Unity Amplier, using straight-forward installation advice.

Thank you, and happy listening!

Welcome and Introduction

by Scott Buwalda - Founder

We realize that you have a choice in ampliers, and are thrilled that you have chosen the Unity Ampliers. For more information about Hybrid Audio Technologies, our philosophies regarding high-end mobile audio, and for information about our other products, please visit us at: hybrid-audio.com

Congratulations on your Unity

Amplier purchase,

and welcome to the world of Hybrid Audio Technologies!

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Your new high delity bridgeable/stereo amplier is designed to deliver maximum enjoyment and years of trouble-free service. Please take a few moments to read this manual thoroughly as it will explain the features and operation of your Unity amplier and help ensure trouble free installation.

Features

Unity U4A / U5A / U6A

• Class “D” High-Current Operation

• Dual Discrete Drive Stages

• MOSFET PWM Power Supply

• Bridgeable & Tri-Mode Operation

• Continuously Variable 12dB/Octave High Pass & 12dB/Octave Low Pass Crossovers

• Subwoofer Variable Crossover for Bass Control

• Nickel Plated RCA, Power & Speaker Terminals

• Soft Start & Muting

• DC, Thermal and Short Circuit Protection

Unity U1A

• Class “D” High-Current Operation

• 2 Ohm Stable

• Spec Audiophile Grade Components

• High Eciency PWM Power Supply

• Multi-Stranded Power Toroid

• MOSFET Transistors

• Oversized Capacitor Banks

• Discrete Mount Power & Speaker Terminals

• Variable Low Pass Crossover 50 - 250 Hz

• Circuit, Thermal and Overload Protection

• Power and Protection Indicator

• Remote Level Control

CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO SOUND PRESSURE

LEVELS OVER 100dB MAY CAUSE PERMANENT

HEARING LOSS. HIGH POWERED AUTO SOUND

SYSTEMS MAY PRODUCE SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS

WELL OVER 130dB. USE COMMON SENSE AND

PRACTICE SAFE SOUND.

Precautions

If after reading this manual you are uncomfortable about installing the amplier into your vehicle, or not equipped to do so, the amplier should be installed by an authorized installer.

You must disconnect the negative battery terminal before making any electrical connections.

Choose a location that provides substantial ventilation for the amplier. The best locations are in your vehicle’s trunk, under the front seats or on the back wall of a truck.

The location chosen should provide at least 2” of clearance above the amplier for proper ventilation.

If the amplier is mounted vertically make sure it is in a place where adequate air will ow along the length of its heatsink ns for cooling.

Never mount the amplier upside down, this will cause the heat to rise back into the amplier causing thermal shutdown or possibly cause permanent damage.

Never mount the amplier in a location that is subject to direct sunlight or exposed to moisture.

Be sure to mount the amplier to a strong, solid surface which will not give way under the stress of a sudden stop or accident.

Make sure that the mounting screws will not penetrate the gas tank, brake and fuel lines, wiring or other critical parts of your car when installed.

Never operate the amplier without the proper power and ground wire, 10-gauge minimum.

Never operate the amplier without proper fusing. Proper fusing requires the location of the fuse holder to be within 18-inches of the battery. This fuse is to protect the vehicle, not the electronics. In the case of a short, the fuse will blow instead of the wire burning up. Using anything other than the recommended fuse ratings at the battery and the amplier may cause damage to the amplier and will void your warranty.

Do not run wiring underneath or outside the car since exposure to the elements may cause the insulation to deteriorate rapidly, resulting in short-circuits and intermittent operation. All cables should be run beneath carpets and inside trim pieces.

It is best to run the power cables along the opposite side from the audio cables to minimize interference with the audio signal.

Wherever wires pass through metal, rubber or plastic grommets must be used to prevent the metal from wearing through the installation and causing a short.

Wherever possible, use cable ties, mounting clamps and similar wiring aids (available from an electrical supply or auto parts store). Adding stress relief loops to wiring is also advisable to prevent straining or breakage.

It is best to test the system before the amplier is permanently mounter and the interior of the car is reassembled.

If the temperature inside the vehicle reaches extreme levels (such as sitting locked for several hours in the hot sun or exposed to a very cold winter day) the amplier may go into protection mode and shut o. Leave the unit o until the ambient temperature returns to normal.

The amplier operates with any vehicle using a 12-volt negative ground system. If you are not sure of the type of electrical system in your vehicle, consult your authorized dealer or qualied mechanic.

Never ground the speaker leads and NEVER allow the speaker leads to come in contact with each other. Speaker wire should be 18 gauge or larger.

Remote turn on wire must be switched by the radio does not have a remote turn on or antenna output, connect to wire that has a positive 12 volts when the key is turned to the accessory. If the amplier does not turn o the battery will die.

Do not listen to high volumes for extended periods of time as hearing damage may occur.

Unity Ampliﬁers

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Mounting

1. After reading the precautions on the previous page, please decide where you are going to install the unit. Also, see Fig.1.

2. Once the location is determined, place the amplier into position. Using a felt tip pen or pencil mark the four holes to be drilled for mounting. Never use the amplier as a template for drilling. It is very easy to damage the amplier surface in the manner.

3. Remove the amplier. Drill four 3.5 mm holes into the mounting surface. If you want to mount the amplier to MDF or a wood panel, drill four 3.0 m/m diameter holes into the mounting surface.

4. If possible, test the system to ensure it is operating correctly before nal mounting of the amplier.

5. Mount the amplier using the (4) supplied self-tapping screws.

Your new high delity bridgeable/stereo amplier is designed to deliver maximum enjoyment and years of trouble-free service. Please take a few moments to read this manual thoroughly as it will explain the features and operation of your Unity amplier and help ensure trouble free installation.

Unity Ampliﬁers

FIG.1

Input Connections

This amplier will accept low-level inputs and speaker level input. Never use low-level input and speaker level simultaneously. Low level is the same as line level. The RCA cables carry the low-level signal. It is preferred to use low-level inputs to the amplier if the head unit is equipped with the low-level outputs. If not, you can use speaker level input. Connect the low level/ line level RCA cables from the head unit, or signal processor, to the line level input of the amplier. See g. 2 system wiring diagrams (next page).

Power Connections

It is important to have good quality power and ground connections to the amplier. Remember, to complete an electrical circuit; the ground connection is just as important as the positive power connection. Before making any power connections, disconnect the ground cable at the battery.

When the power supply lead, memory backup lead or ground lead are extended use a 4 AWG or larger automotive grade cable which will withstand friction and heat.

GND = Connect the proper gauge ground wire to the amplier “GND” terminal. Locate the position on the chassis of the car to which the amplier is to be grounded. The surface must be free from any paint or dirt, which may be accomplished with a small grinding bit, sandpaper, or a wire wheel.

NOTE: Do not ground the amplier to the “frame of the car” the frame on most cars and trucks is not grounded to the chassis(body). Use Solder or a clamp ring to connect the ground wire. Pre-drill the prepped chassis to bolt the ground ring terminal with nut, bolt and lock washers. Insulate metal and connector with paint or silicon to prevent rust and oxidation. Silicon also works great to prevent nuts and bolts from working loose in a harsh environment of an automobile. Upon completion of the ground connection, grab the wire or connector and conrm that it is a solid connection. To prevent engine noise in the audio system, it is recommended to ground the head unit and other audio electronics in the same location.

REM = Connect the remote wire (power antenna output) from the head unit to the remote turn-on wire of the amplier. If the head unit is not equipped with a remote/ antenna output, locate a wire that is controlled by the accessory position of the key. It is important to have the amplier turn o with the radio or key. If the amplier remains on, the result will most likely be a dead battery.

12v = connect the proper gauge power wire to the amplier “B+” terminal. Run wire towards the fuse holder that is no greater than 0.5 meters from the battery. Remember, the fuse is to protect the safety of the car in the case of a short. Connect the power cable to the fuse holder to the battery, but do not install the fuse at this time.

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4-Channel System

Wiring Diagram

(U4A)

INPUT MODE

2CH: Connect input signals only to LINE IN CH1/CH2 RCA jacks or speaker level inputs CH1/CH2, the unit will sum CH1/CH2 signals to CH3/CH4 and you can get 4CH outputs.

4CH: Connect input signals to LINE IN CH1/ CH2/CH3/CH4 RCA jacks or speaker level inputs CH1/CH2/CH3/CH4 respectively, the unit will amplify the input signals and you can get outputs from CH1/CH2/ CH3/CH4.

Unity Ampliﬁers

5-Channel System Wiring Diagram (U5A)

INPUT MODE

SUB: Accepts only low level input. The input MODE selector doesn’t function on SUB channel.

CH1/CH2/CH3/CH4

2CH: Connect input signals only to LINE IN CH1/CH2 RCA jacks or speaker level inputs CH1/CH2, the unit will sum CH1/CH2 signals to CH3/CH4 and you can get 4CH outputs.

4CH: Connect input signals to LINE IN CH1/ CH2/CH3/CH4 RCA jacks or speaker level inputs CH1/CH2/CH3/CH4 respectively, the unit will amplify the inputs signals and you can get outputs from CH1/CH2/ CH3/CH4.

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6-Channel System

Wiring Diagram

(U6A)

INPUT MODE

2CH: Connect input signals only to LINE IN CH1/CH2 RCA jacks or speaker level inputs CH1/CH2, the unit will sum CH1/CH2 signals to CH3/CH4/CH5/CH6 and you can get 6CH outputs.

4CH: Connect input signals to LINE IN CH1/ CH2/CH3/CH4 RCA jacks or speaker level inputs CH1/CH2/CH3/CH4, the unit sum CH1/CH2 CH3/ CH4 signals to Ch5/ CH6 and you can get 6CH outputs.

6CH: Connect input signals to LINE IN CH1/ CH2/CH3/CH4/CH5/CH6 RCA jacks respectively, the unit will amplify all the 6CHs signals and you will get 6CH outputs.

Unity Ampliﬁers

1-Channel System Wiring Diagram (U1A)

NOTE: Do not connect both the high level and low level inputs from your receiver to your amplier at the same.

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Speaker Connections

4-Channel (U4A)

This amplier can operate in one, two, or three channel mode. The minimum impedance for single channel (bridged/ mono) operation is 4 or 8 ohms. Tri-channel power is referred to stereo and mono at the same time. Minimum impedance remains the same for three channel (front /subwoofer) systems as long as proper passive crossovers are used. Connect right and left speaker wire to the corresponding speaker output terminals of the amplier. Be sure to have the positive wire from the speaker connected to the speaker terminal of the amplier and the negative wire from the speaker must connect with the negative speaker terminal of the amplier. Reversing any of these connections will result in the speaker cones moving out of phase which causes bass cancellation. See Fig.3 Speaker Output Connections.

Unity Ampliﬁers

Speaker Connections

5-Channel (U5A)

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Speaker Connections

6-Channel (U6A)

This amplier can operate in one, two, or three channel mode. The minimum impedance for single channel (bridged/ mono) operation is 4 or 8 ohms. Tri-channel power is referred to stereo and mono at the same time. Minimum impedance remains the same for three channel (front /subwoofer) systems as long as proper passive crossovers are used. Connect right and left speaker wire to the corresponding speaker output terminals of the amplier. Be sure to have the positive wire from the speaker connected to the speaker terminal of the amplier and the negative wire from the speaker must connect with the negative speaker terminal of the amplier. Reversing any of these connections will result in the speaker cones moving out of phase which causes bass cancellation. See Fig.3 Speaker Output Connections.

Unity Ampliﬁers

Speaker Connections

1-Channel (U1A)

The Class “D” amplier is a SINGLE CHANNEL dedicated subwoofer amplier. Unlike other ampliers, the Class “D” operates as a single channel and cannot be bridged. Don’t be fooled by the outputs. Two outputs are used strictly for convenience and are paralleled internally on the amplier. This means that if both outputs are used with one driver each. The amplier sees the same load as if the same drivers are connected to only one output terminal. See diagram below.

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U4A U5A U6A U1A

4 Ohm RMS Output 75W x4 75W x4 +

400W x1

75W x6 600W x1

2 Ohm RMS Output 110W x4 110W x4 +

600W x1

110W x6 1000W x1

4 Ohm Bridged RMS Output 220W x2 220W x2 220W x3 N/A

Low Pass Filter (Variable) 60 Hz - 6 kHz

(Ch 1/2)

60 - 600 Hz

(Ch 3/4)

600 Hz - 6 kHz

(Ch 3/4)

50 - 200 Hz

(Ch 5)

60 Hz - 6 kHz

(Ch 3/4)

50 - 500 Hz

(Ch 5/6)

50 - 250 Hz

High Pass Filter (Variable) 50 - 200 Hz

(Ch 1/2)

15 Hz - 6 kHz

(Ch 3/4)

15 Hz - 6 kHz

(Ch 1/2)

50 - 500 Hz

(Ch 3/4)

15 Hz - 6 kHz

(Ch 1/2)

50 - 500 Hz

(Ch 3/4)

15 - 200 Hz

(Ch 5/6)

N/A

Subsonic Filter N/A N/A 15 - 200 Hz 10 - 40 Hz

Phase N/A N/A N/A 0 - 180 Degrees

Frequency Response (+/- 1dB) 10 Hz - 30 kHz 10 Hz - 30 kHz

(Ch 1-4)

10 - 250 Hz

(Ch 5)

10 Hz - 30 kHz 10 - 250 Hz

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (‘A’ Weighted) >100 dB

Input Sensitivity 350 mV - 6 V

Input Impedance 22k Ohm

Minimum Speaker Impedance @ Stereo 2 Ohm 2 Ohm (Mono)

Fuse Rating 25A x2 30A x3 35A x2 30A x3

Dimensions (185 x 55 x D) mm 290 410

Unity Ampliﬁers

Specications & Parameters

CAUTION always check your speaker load with a multimeter before hooking up to the amplier. These digital ampliers are only 2 Ohm stable. Any impedance (load) smaller than 2 Ohm will damage the amplier. Such damage is not covered under warranty either, so pay strict attention to what connections are made to the amplier.

ADJUSTMENTS

1.Set to the “HPF” position when the amplier is used to drive a tweeter/ midrange system. The frequencies below the crossover point will be attenuated at 12dB/octave. Permits adjustment of the crossover frequency, by rotating the knob to select any frequency between MIN and MAX value marked on the panel.

2. Set to the “LPF” position when the amplier is used to drive a subwoofer. The frequencies above the crossover point will be attenuated at 12dB/octave. Set adjustment of the crossover frequency, by rotating the knob to select any frequency between the MIN and MAX value marked on the panel.

3. Set to the “FULL” position when the amplier will be used for driving full-range speakers. The full frequency bandwidth (20Hz – 20kHz) will be output to the speakers without high or low-frequency attenuation.

4. Level adjustment – The sensitivity adjustment is to allow the amplier to work with many dierent brands of head units. It allows the input signal to vary between 250 millivolts to 8 volts from the head unit or other signal processor. Start by setting the sensitivity adjustment to the “MIN” (8 volts) Using a cassette or compact disc that you are familiar with, turn on the head unit to the 3/4 volume setting. Slowly turn up sensitivity adjustment towards the “MAX” (250 millivolts) using a at head screwdriver. Stop turning on the onset of distortion and turn back just slightly. The 3/4 volume setting is now the “maximum” volume for the head unit. The goal is to keep the level control to the lowest setting yet still have enough signal to drive the amplier. This is done to prevent overdriving the amplier and to maintain the system noise to a minimum. It is important not overdrive speakers (at the point of distortion) this will cause permanent damage to the speakers. Also, if the amplier itself is over driven it could be damaged.

5.The “BASS” function can be selected to increase low-frequency response output, or decrease frequency response output. The “BASS” function will be working at only “FULL” or “LPF” position. The BASS is adjustable from 0 ~ 12dB boost at 45Hz.

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SYMPTOM PROBABLE CAUSE SOLUTION

No Audio Low or N.C Remote.

Turn-on connections.

Blown Fuse.

Power wires not connected.

Blown or non-speakers connected.

Check remote turn-on voltage at amp and head unit.

Replace with new fast-blow fuse.

Check butt splices or solder joints Check ground and battery connections.

Use VOM or DVM to measure speaker coil impedance; check speaker wiring connections.

Distorted Audio Input Sensitivity not set properly or damaged speaker cones.

Low turn-on voltage.

See adjustment procedure and check each step;

Inspect each speaker for damage and repair or replace suspected component.

Refer to head unit owner’s manual.

Audio Level Low Mute circuit on head unit is on. Check electrical system for low voltage;

Check ground connection.

Audio Lacks Output Speakers wired with wrong polarity, causing cancellation of bass fre-

quencies.

Check polarity of wires from amplier to each speaker as dened by the system design.

Check battery voltage at amplier during operation.

External Fuse Blow-

ing

Incorrect wiring or short circuit. Refer to electrical installation and check each installation step.

Whining noise on

audio with engine

running

Amplier is picking up alternator noise. Install in line noise lter on the head unit’s power wire;

Check alternator routing diodes or voltage regulator for proper operation.

Check all grounds, battery voltage, and RCA cables.

Ticking noise on

audio with engine

running

Amplier is picking up radiated spark noise. Check RCA audio cable; Install an inline noise lter on the head unit’s power wire.

Check spark plug wires.

Unity Ampliﬁers

Troubleshooting Guide

This section provides you with various amplier symptoms and their probable causes with solutions. Please make sure the vehicle’s electrical system is working properly by verifying that other electrical items (such as headlights, power windows, etc.) still function correctly.

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Hybrid Audio Technologies extends a limited

one year warranty to the original purchaser

when self-installed, and three years warranty

when installed by a certied Hybrid Audio

Technologies dealer (United States only), and

hereby certies that this product will be free

from defects in materials and workmanship

under normal and proper use for one year

from the date of purchase.

Hybrid Audio Technologies’ responsibility

under this warranty is limited to replacing

or repairing, at Hybrid Audio Technologies’

option, products or parts determined by

Hybrid Audio Technologies to be defective

either in materials, or workmanship. To

attain warranty service, the customer

must deliver the product or the defective

part(s), appropriately packed with proof

of purchase date, to an authorized Hybrid

Audio Technologies dealer. In the event that

a direct return from a consumer is required,

the consumer must obtain from Hybrid Audio

Technologies a return authorization number,

and ship the defective product directly to

Hybrid Audio Technologies. All shipping

expenses are the customer’s responsibility. If

the product has been updated or superseded,

a replacement will be made with a current

model of the same quality and function.

Warranty of the replacement parts is limited

to 90 days or the unexpired portion of the

warranty period of the product on which the

parts are being used, whichever is longer.

This warranty does not cover any defects or costs caused by: (1) modication, alteration, repair or service of this product by any persons or company other than Hybrid Audio Technologies; (2) physical abuse to, overload of, or misuse of, the product or operation thereof in a manner inconsistent with the use indicated in the instructions; (3) any use of the product other than that for which it was intended; or (4) shipment of the product to Hybrid Audio Technologies for service. This warranty does not cover labor costs.

Hybrid Audio Technologies is not liable for any special incidental or consequential damages, including, but not limited to, personal injury, property damage, damage to or loss of equipment, loss of prots or revenue, costs of renting or buying replacements and/or any other additional expenses, even if Hybrid Audio Technologies has been informed of the prospect of such damages. Any express warranty not provided herein, and any remedy which other than the warranty contained herein might arise by inference or operation of law, is hereby excluded and disclaimed including the implied warranties of merchantability and of the tness for a particular purpose.

Unity Ampliﬁer

Warranty

Thank You!

Hybrid Audio Technologies is delighted that you have chosen a Unity Amplier for your high-end mobile audio sound system. We are convinced that a great product oering, backed up with unsurpassed customer service and technical support will advance the Hybrid Audio Technologies namesake in the coming years. We are pleased that you have joined us in our “new generation of in-car audio.”

If there is anything we can do to help you get the most out of your Unity installation, please do not hesitate to email us:

support@hybrid-audio.com,

by phone: 770.888.8200, or by visiting us at: hybrid-audio.com

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1240 Oak Industrial Lane Cumming Georgia 30041 United States

(T) +1 770 888 8200 (F) +1 888 886 4605

hybrid-audio.com