MTX Thunder4250D, Thunder6500D, Thunder81000D Owner's Manual

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i

CONGRATULATIONS

on your purchase of a new MTX
Thunder Amplifier! MTX has long
been the industry leader in mobile
enclosures and speakers, and we
have reached new heights with the
development of the new MTX Thunder

amplifiers. You couldn’t have chosen
a more reliable, powerful, or better
performing amplifier - In fact, we
back up every Thunder amplifier with
a three-year warranty if installed by
an authorized MTX retailer (see the

warranty statement on page 34).

Your new MTX Thunder amplifier was
designed, built and thoroughly tested at our
state-of-the-art electronics manufacturing
facility in Phoenix, Arizona. We manufacture
every amplifier using the latest intelligent

Surface Mount Technology. Some of the
advantages of the new design are its signifi­cant improvements to the amplifier’s electri­cal and mechanical properties. ISMT
devices feature substantially shorter internal
and external lead lengths. This reduces stray
capacitance and inductance, which results
in cleaner and more accurate musical repro­duction with significantly less noise interfer­ence. The ISMT mounter produces amplifier

boards with smaller and lighter components,

which are more resistant to vibrations inher-

ent in the automotive environment.

A word about power ratings. It is important for you
to know how they stack up. MTX has chosen the

most honest, most conservative way to rate our
amps. We show you the RMS power, at 12.5 volts,
and dynamic power at 14.4 volts. However, we go
above and beyond the call of duty. We test each

amplifier. The technician records the “actual”

power output, and records this number on your
Certified Performance Certificate. The amplifier
must meet or exceed the rated specification
before we’ll ship it. No questions. No exceptions.

We want to ensure you get continuous
high performance from your MTX Thunder
amplifier, so we recommend that you
have it professionally installed by your
authorized MTX dealer.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

If you are installing this amplifier yourself, we

recommend that you read the manual cover­to-cover before you install it. Familiarize
yourself with the features and details on the

input and output panels. Make sure you have

all the equipment you need. Sample installa­tion diagrams may be found on our website:

WWW.MTXAUDIO.COM

If you have any questions, write or call us at:

MTX

4545 E. Baseline Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85040

l-602-438-4545

P

I-800~CALL-MTX

technicalQmtxaudio.com

www.mtxaudio.com

Register your warranty online

Features

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Intelligent Surface Mount Technology

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Patented PWM MOSFET Switching Power Supply (#5,598,325)

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Adaptive Class D Technology

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High Powered Transformer

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High Powered stacked inductor

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Pure N-Channel Design

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Doubles power into 2 ohms

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Real lime Computerized Protection Circuit

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Color-coded wire harness for speaker-level input installation on Thunder4250D and 65000

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Smart-EngageTM auto turn on for easy integration with factory head units Thunder4250D and 6500D

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Acoustically Seamless Turn-on/Turn-off (i.e. no noise)

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Variable frequency low-pass crossover, 40Hz to 200Hz. 24dB/octave low pass

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Defeatable compression circuit included on Thunder6500D and Thunder810000

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Continuously adjustable and defeatable Bass EQ enhancement circuitry, centered at 40Hz

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Low level inputs

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EBC - External Bass Control Port with an additional 3dB of gain when used, and 23dB attenuation

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Adjustable input sensitivity

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Buffered RCA Outputs for daisy-chaining additional bass amplifiers

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Nickel-plated, heavy duty terminal block type connectors

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Unique rubber Insulated Iso-FeettM

Smecifications

THUNDER4250D

THUNDER81000D

RMS Power measured at 12.5 Volts DC:
125 Watts x 1 into a 4 Ohm load with less than 1% ThdrN
250 Watts x I into a 2 Ohm load with less than 1% ThdtN
Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC
200 Watts x 1 into a 4 Ohm load
350 Watts x 1 into a 2 Ohm load
S~goal to Noise Ratio: >lOOdB A-Welghted
Damping Factor: ,200
Frequency Response: ZOHz-200Hz
Maximum Input: avrms
Thunder E(1: Variable Bass Boost IO-lad61 centered at 40Hz
Crossover: Variable 4OHz to 200Hz. 24dBioctave low pass
Dimensions: 7” x 9 15” x 2” (17.8cm x 24.&m x 5.lcm)

9.9’ x 9.75” x 2.1” (23.6cm x 24&m x 5.3cm) Including lsoFe@

RMS Power measured at 12.5 Volts DC:
500 Watts x I into a 4 Ohm load with less than 2% ThdtN
1000 Watts x I into a 2 Ohm load with less than 2% ThdtN
Oynamfc Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC
a50 Watts x I into a 4 Ohm load
1500 Watts x 1 into a 2 Ohm load
Signal to Noise Ratio: tlOOdB A-Welghted
DampIng Factor: >I00
Frequency Response: ZOHz-200Hz
MaxImum Input: BVrms
Thunder E(1: Variable Bass Boost IO-l8dB) centered at4OHz
Crossover: Variable 40Hz to 2WHz. 24dBioctave low pass
0imenslons:lM” x 9.75” x 2”.(40.lcm x 24.8cm x 5.lcm)

17.K x 9.W x 2.1’ I45 2cm x 24.8cm x 5.3cm) Including IsoFeerM
Recommended Fuse = 150A

THUNDER6500D

RMS Power measured at 12.5 Volts DC:
250 Watts x I into a 4 Ohm load with less than 1% ThdtN
500 Watts x 1 mto a 2 Ohm load with less than I% ThdtN

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC
450 Watts x I mto a 4 Ohm load
775 Watts x I mto a 2 Ohm load
Signal to Noise Ratio: >lOOdB A-Welghted
Damping Factor: ,200
Frequency Response: ZOHz-200Hz
Maximum Input: BVrms
Thunder EtI Variable Bass Boost IO-18dBl centered at40Hz
Crossover: Variable 40Hz to 2WHz. 24dBloctave low pass
Dimensions: 11.5” x 9.75” x 2” (29.2cm x 24.8cm x 5.lcm)

13.9” x 9.75” x 2.1” (36.6cm x 24.8cm x 5.3cm) Including lsoFeeCM

1. Gain Controls -These controls are used to match the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the particular
source unit that you are using. The controls are factory set to IVrms.

2. Thunder EQ - This equalization circuit is used to enhance the low frequency response of the vehicle’s
interior. With up to 18 dB of boost and centered at 40Hz, the Bass EQ can be adjusted to meet your

own

personal taste.

3. Frequency Control -This control is continuously adjustable from 40Hz through 200Hz at 24dB per octave.
Factory setting is at 40Hz.

4. RCA Input Jacks - RCA type input jacks for use with source units that have RCA or Line Level Outputs.
A source unit with a minimum output level of 200mV is required for proper operation. However, this input
will accept levels up to 8Vrms.

5. EBC 2- The EBC, or Electronic Bass Control, allows a remote bass control to be adjusted from the dri­ver’s seat, If the optional EBC is installed, the bass level will be able to be adjusted to overcome noise and
other interference. With EBC 2 multiple amplifiers can be controlled.

6. RCA-Output Jacks-These RCA outputs allow for a signal to be sent to other amplifiers in a daisy-chain
configuration. The RCA outputs also allow for multiple bass amplifiers to be level controlled using one EBC.

7. Speaker level Inputs - This input will allow the Thunder425D and 6500D to operate from source units
with speaker-level outputs. Output speaker leads from the source unit should be tied directly to the wire
harness provided with the amplifier.
Wire harness color codes:

Grey / Black = Source units right negative (-) White / Black = Source units left negative (-)
Solid Grey = Source units right positive (t) Solid White = Source units left positive (t)

With the Smart-EngageTM auto-turn circuit, a remote turn-on wire is not necessary when connecting the
speaker-level input wire harness to a high powered source unit. The amplifier will automatically turn on
when music is received.

8. Compression Circuit - This new circuit, found on the Thunder6500D and ThunderSlOOOD,
prevents the amplifier from going into clipping, even at high SPL levels. The compression circuit allows the
listener to play the amplifier at high volume levels, yet protects the speakers against the potential damage
that can occur during dynamic musical passages. The circuit is switchable on/off, for those SPL competi­tors who run their amplifiers into clipping on purpose. Warning; Damage to speakers may occur when the

compression circuit is in the off position.

1nm.d Panel Lavout

1. Fuses- For convenience, all amplifiers utilize ATC type fuses. For continued protection in the eventthat a fuse blows,
replace the fuse only with the same value.
Caution - The power fuses on the amp are for protecting the amp against overdrive. To protect the vehicle’s

electrical system, an additional fuse is required within 18” of the battery on the 12Vt cable.

Thunder42500 - 20A x 2
Thunder65OOD - 25A x 3
Thunder81000D - 150 Amps (not supplied)

2. Power Terminal -This terminal is where the power source of the vehicle is connected. The 12Vt must be con­nected directly to the positive battery post. It is highly recommended that you place an additional fuse within 18”
of the battery connection, Be sure to use the correct gauge of power cable! If wire of insufficient size is used,
there will be a voltage drop and the amp will starve, causing poor performance. In an extreme case, the amp may
shut down due to the low battery voltage protection feature. The terminal closest to the fuse(s) is where the power

cable with connector should be installed. Be sure to make your connection clean to avoid any shorting to the other

terminals. Always double check all of the connections for any discrepancies.08

Thunder42500 - 6-8 Gauge
Thunder6500D - 4-6 Gauge
Thunder81000D - l/O Gauge only

3. Remote Terminal-This is the wire thatturns the amplifier on and off. This terminal connects to the amp turn-on lead
or the power antenna lead coming from the source unit. If the source unit doesn’t have one of these wires, you can
either run a wire to the battery with a switch or use an ignition controlled wire to power up the amp. If you use the
ignition controlled wire, be aware that the amplifier will be on, as long as the car is on. When using the Smart
Engage” feature, a high powered radio, and speaker level inputs it is not necessaryto connectthe Remote Terminal.

4. Ground Terminal -The ground terminal connects the amplifier to the vehicle ground. Be sure to use the same size
wire gauge or larger as the t12V connection. A strong ground point is very important. A little screw through the body

is not acceptable. The cable should be as short as possible and connected to the chassis of the vehicle. The contact
point should be free of paint and debris for best results. All precautions for the 12Vt connection apply to this con­nection as well.

5. Power LED (top oi heatsink)- A lighted LED indicates that power has been applied to the amplifier. t12V from the
battery to the tBAll terminal (#lo) and t12V from a switched ignition or remote lead from a head unit. An
unlighted LED indicates power has been removed or the amplifier has overheated. In the case of the overheat

condition, the amplifier will turn back on after it cools down.

P

6. 4 Term Block- The t and - terminals connect the speaker to the amplifier. 2 ohm minimum
impedance is allowed.

Outnut Panel Lavout

Adiustina the? Gain

1. Turn the gain control on the amplifier all the way down.

2. Turn up the volume control on the source unit to
approximately 3/4 of maximum.

3. Adjustthe gain control on the amplifier until audible distor­tion occurs.

4. Adjust the gain control down until audible distortion dis-

appears.

5. The amplifier is now calibrated to the output of the

source unit.

Definitions of

Common Terms

The following list of terms with their definitions is offered as
help in understanding the set-up and operation of your
amplifier.

1. Crossover fxover) - an electrical filter with hrgh-pass or
low-pass characteristics that divides the frequency range
into playable bands for certain speakers. Subwoofers, mid­bass, midrange and tweeters are all designed to play differ­ent frequencies and should do so to avoid damage. The
xover point is where the playable frequencies cross from
one speaker to the next at -3dB below reference level.

2. Full-range - refers to signals which cover the entire audio
frequency span from 20Hz to 20kHz.

3. High-pass - simply put, this blocks lower frequencies
which damage smaller speakers, and passes the higher
frequencies for smaller speakers like the midrange and
tweeter.

4. Low-pass-You got it, this is the inverse of a high-pass. It

blocks higher frequencies and passes the playable lower

frequencies to the larger speakers, like subwoofers.

Tvmical Sneaker

Wirinq

Confiuurations

Mono Amplifier
Impedance Requirement

2 ohm minimum

5. Impedance - the resistance to the flow of current in an
alternating current circuit (such as with music). Line level
circuits are typically a high impedance of several thousand
ohms, while speaker level circuits are usually a low imped­ance of a few ohms.

6. Line level - The tYpe of signal produced at the outputs of
tape decks, CD tuners, preamplifiers, etc., with a typical
value of a volt or less in a high impedance circuit.

7. Speaker level - The type of output that is meant to drive
speaker= These signals are sometimes called high level
and are usually connected by two conductor speaker wires.

8. Signal - The signal of an audio system is what is heard
from the speakers. These signals may be high pass, low
pass or full-range.

We don’t have enough space for Electronics 101, so if you
have a good, bad or amusing question, please call us TOLL
FREE at 800-CALL-MTX! (800-225-5689)

Troubleshooting Guide

Read this if you wanna be a do-it-yourselfer -- or give us a callat I-BOO-CALLMTX

&!A!&

No LED indication

LED on, no output

Output distorted

Balance reversed

Some balance reversed

Bass is boomy

Bass is weak

No t12V at remote connection
No t12V at Power connection
Insufficient ground connection
Blown power fuse

Volume on head unit off
Speaker connections not made
Gain control on amplifier off
Signal processing units off
All speakers blown

Head unit volume settoo high
Amplifier gain settoo high

Speakers wired L t R reversed
RCA inputs reversed

Some Speakers wired L t R
reversed
Some RCA inputs reversed

Thunder EQ too high

Thunder EQ too low
Speakers wired out
of phase

Not using MTX woofers

Excessive output levels
Amplifier defective

&&jLo
Supply t12V to terminal
Supply t12V to terminal

Verify ground connection

Replace fuse

Increase volume on head unit

Make speaker connections

Turn up gain

Apply power to signal processor

Replace speakers

Lower head unit volume

Lower amplifier gain

Wire speakers with correct orientation

Reverse RCA inputs

Wire speakers with correct orientation

Reverse appropriate RCA inputs

Lower setting

Raise setting

Wire with correct phase

Buy MTX woofers

Lower volume

Return for service

Blowing fuses

Warranty

All MTX Thunder Amplifiers purchased in the USA are guaranteed against defects in
material and workmanship for a period of three years from the date purchased by the
end user, if the amplifier is installed by an authorized MTX dealer (one year, if
installed by the consumer). This warranty is limited to the original retail purchaser of

product. MTX disclaims any liability for the other incurred damages resulting from
product defects. Any expenses incurred in the removal and reinstallation of
amplifiers are not covered by this warranty. MTX’s total liability will not exceed the
purchase price of the amplifier. This warranty is valid only in the USA.

To ensure efficiency and full benefit on any warranty claim during the warranty

period stated above, MTX requests the return of the warranty registration card,
completed in full immediately following purchase. Proof of purchase must be
provided at time of warranty claim. If there is no proof of purchase provided with the

warranty claim, MTX reserves the right not to honor the warranty set forth above.
Therefore, labor and parts may be charged to you.

This warranty does not apply to product exterior and cosmetics. Misuse, abnormal

service or handling, improper alterations or modifications in design or construction

void this warranty.

No sales personnel of the seller, or any other person is authorized to make any

warranties other than those described above or to extend the duration of any
warranties on behalf of MTX beyond the time period described above.

For Warranty Inquiries, please call:

l-800-225-5689
l-602-438-4545

MTX

4545 E. Baseline Rd.

Phoenix, Arizona 85040

Register Warranty On-line:

www.mtxaudio.com

Please fold and seal with tape

WARRANTYREGlSTRATlON&CUSTOMERSURVEY

NAME
PHONE

ADDRESS

AGE

OCCUPATION
DEALER NAME
MTX MODEL NO.
DATE PURCHASED
VEHICLE TYPE

CITY

INSTALLED BY

YEAR

MAKE MODEL

1. WAS THIS UNIT

CI

Purchased for personal use

0

Received as a gift

2. HOW DID YOU FIRST LEARN OF MTX?
0 Dealer D Radio

0 TV

m Newspaper 0 Catalog

m Friend/Family

0 Store display

CI Magazine (Circle the magazine)

Motor Trend

Car and Track

Rolling Stone

Lowrider

Truckin’ Autosound and Security Car Sound

Car Audio and Electronics Car Stereo Review

Q Other

3. IS THIS:

D Your first car stereo

CI Replacement/Upgrade

4. WHAT WAS THE MAIN REASON YOU SELECTED THIS MTX PRODUCT?

Ll Dealer recommendation

B MTX Name/reputation a Friend/family recommendation

a Product Appeal

U Sound

0 Price D Other

5. WHAT ARE THREE THINGS YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THIS MTX PRODUCT?

It Styling

It Sound Quality U Power handling

m Bass Reproduction

D Durability

0 Installation Flexibility

6. HOW SATISFIED ARE YOU WITH THIS PRODUCT?

13 Very Satisfied

a Satisfied c3 Neutral

CII Not Satisfied

7. WHERE DO YOU BUY YOUR TAPES AND CD’S?

COMMENTS

TiiMW#f~E~~~OOOD

Amplifier Input Connections

AMPLIFIER

CAR STEREO

(SOURCE UNIT)

Remote/Power Antenna

Turn-On Wire

REQUIRED INSTALLATION

TOOLS:

Power Drill

Utility Knife

Adjustible Wrench l

Crimpers l

Screw Driver

For installation options go to www.mtxauciio.com

r

r,,~~~E~S10000

Amplifier Output Connections

1

AMPLIFIER

Connect to Car Stereo
Remote/Power Antenna
Turn-On Wire

Ground To Metal

Disconnect

Battery Negative (-) Cable

Prior to Installing Amplifier

Power: l/O AWG. Ground: l/O AWG.

CAUTION: This amplifier may draw in excess of 150 Amps of current.

Upgrading the vehicle’s factory battery and alternator is required.

(For specific details, contact your local authorized MTX dealer, or call l-800~CALL-MTX.)

Remove Paint J

from Metal

For installation options go to mtxaudio.com