Rockford Fosgate P300X1, P300X2, P400X1, P400X2, P400X4 operation manual

AMPLIFIERS

P300X1 P300X2 P400X1

P400X2 P400X4 P500X1BD

P500X2 P600X4 P1000X1BD

P1000X2 P1000X5

Installation & Operation

Introduction

Specications

Dear Customer,

Congratulations on your purchase of the world’s finest brand of car audio
products. At Rockford Fosgate we are fanatics about musical reproduc­tion at its best, and we are pleased you chose our product. Through
years of engineering expertise, hand craftsmanship and critical testing
procedures, we have created a wide range of products that reproduce
music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.

For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford
Fosgate product installed by an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer,
as we provide specialized training through Rockford Technical Training
Institute (RTTI). Please read your warranty and retain your receipt and
original carton for possible future use.

Great product and competent installations are only a piece of the puzzle
when it comes to your system. Make sure that your installer is using
100% authentic installation accessories from Rockford Fosgate in your
installation. Rockford Fosgate has everything from RCA cables and
speaker wire to power wire and battery connectors. Insist on it! After all,
your new system deserves nothing but the best.

To add the finishing touch to your new Rockford Fosgate image order
your Rockford accessories, which include everything from T-shirts to
jackets.

Visit our web site for the latest information on all Rockford products;

www.rockfordfosgate.com

or, in the U.S. call 1-800-669-9899 or FAX [phone]. For all other
countries, call +001-480-967-3565 or FAX [phone].

Table of Content

2 Introduction

3 Specifications

4-5 Design Features

6-17 Installation

Installation Considerations

Mounting Locations

Battery and Charging

Wiring the System

18-19 Operation

Clip Indicator Setup

Adjusting Crossover Frequency

2/4 Channel Switch

Subwoofer Input Switch

Infrasonic Filter

Punch EQ

20 Troubleshooting

21 Limited Warranty Information

If, after reading your manual, you still have questions regarding this prod­uct, we recommend that you see your Rockford Fosgate dealer. If you need
further assistance, you can call us direct at 1-800-669-9899. Be sure to
have your serial number, model number and date of purchase available
when you call.

PRACTICE SAFE SOUND

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.

Safety

This symbol with “WARNING” is intended
to alert the user to the presence of important
instructions. Failure to heed the instructions
will result in severe injury or death.

This symbol with “CAUTION” is intended to
alert the user to the presence of important
instructions. Failure to heed the instructions
can result in injury or unit damage.

•To prevent injury and damage to the unit, please read and follow the
instructions in this manual. We want you to enjoy this system, not get
a headache.

•If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself, have it installed
by a qualified Rockford Fosgate technician.

•Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to
prevent damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.

300x1 @ 4 ohms

600x1 @ 2 ohms

1000x1 @ 1 ohms

150x1 @ 4 ohms

300x1 @ 2 ohms

500x1 @ 1 ohms

250x1 @ 4 ohms

400x1 @ 2 ohms

200x1 @ 4 ohms

300x1 @ 2 ohms

75x4 @ 4 ohms

125x4 @ 2 ohms

250x2 @ 4 ohms*

Sub:

150x1 @ 4 ohms

75x4 @ 4 ohms

150x4 @ 2 ohms

300x2 @ 4 ohms*

50x4 @ 4 ohms

100x4 @ 2 ohms

200x2 @ 4 ohms*

300x2 @ 4 ohms

500x2 @ 2 ohms

1000x1 @ 4 ohms*

150x2 @ 4 ohms

250x2 @ 2 ohms

500x1 @ 4 ohms*

125x2 @ 4 ohms

200x2 @ 2 ohms

400x1 @ 4 ohms*

100x2 @ 4 ohms

150x2 @ 2 ohms

300x1 @ 4 ohms*

300x1 @ 2 ohms

500x1 @ 1 ohm

12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct 12 dB/Oct

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz, Sub: 28Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz, Sub: 28Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Sub: 28Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

Variable 50Hz-

250Hz

18dB

+

Variable 0-

@ 45Hz

18dB

+

Variable 0-

@ 45Hz

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

14dB

+

18dB @ 45Hz

+

Variable 0 -

@ 12.5kHz and

0-

9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC 9-16VDC

20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-250Hz 20Hz-250Hz

50A 60A 80A 140A 60A 100A 150A 50A 60A 80A 140A

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 1 ohm

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 1 ohm

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

F/R:

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

Sub:

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 4 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 2 ohms

<1.0% @ 1 ohm

150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V 150mV-12V

20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k

>85dB >85dB >80dB >80dB

>105dB >105dB >100dB >100dB

Sub: >80dB

>85dB >85dB >85dB >85dB >85dB >85dB F/R: > 85dB

>105dB >105dB >105dB >105dB >105dB >105dB F/R: >105dB

Sub: >100dB

>50dB >50dB >50dB >50dB >50dB >50dB >50dB N/A N/A N/A N/A

>55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB >55dB

>500 >500 >300 >300

Sub: >300

>500 >500 >500 >500 >500 >500 F/R: >500

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

13.3”

(33.7cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

11”

(28cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

9.9”

(25cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

* Rated power when amplifier is wired in a bridged configuration.

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

9.9”

(25cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

15”

(38.2cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

13.3”

(33.7cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

11”

(28cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

15”

(38.2cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

13.3”

(33.7cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

11”

(28cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

2.4”
x

7.8”
x

9.9”

(25cm x 19.7cm x 6.1 cm)

CEA 2006

Power ratings on Rockford Fosgate amplifiers conform to CEA-2006 industry standards. These guidelines

mean your amplifier’s output power ratings are REAL POWER numbers, not inflated marketing ratings.

©2013 Rockford Corporation. All Rights Reserved. ROCKFORD FOSGATE, PUNCH, and associated logos where applicable are registered trademarks of Rockford
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Specifications subject to change without notice.

Mode P300X2 P400X2 P500X2 P1000X2 P400X4 P600X4 P1000X5 P300X1 P400X1 P500X1BD P1000X1BD

Continuous

Rated Power -

@ 14.4V

Power Rating

(RMS) Measured

Slope

Crossover

Crossover

Frequency

Punch EQ

Voltage

Operating

Response

Frequency

Rating (not

Battery Fuse

supplied)

THD+N @

Rated Power

ance

Input Imped-

Input Sensitivity

2006

S/N Ratio @

S/N Ratio CEA

Channel

Rated Power

Separation

Common Mode

Rejection Ratio

Damping Factor

(LxWxH)

Dimensions

32

Design Features

Design Features

Power/Protect LED

Power LED illuminates blue when the unit is turned on. Protect
LED illuminates yellow if a short circuit or to low of an impedance
is detected at the speaker connections. Thermal LED illuminates
red when amplifier overheats. The amplifier will automatically shut
down if this occurs.

Output Clip Indicator Chart

Reference chart for the output clip in­dicator LED illumination color during
input level setup.

Input Level Knob

The input level control is used to match
the output of the audio source.

Output Clip Indicator

The output clip indicator works in conjunction with
the input level knob, illuminating to appropriate
color depending on the audio content used for the
setup.

Crossover Switch

Selectable switch for High-Pass (HP) or
All Pass (AP) or Low-Pass (LP)

Variable Crossover

Is a built-in 12dB/octave Butterworth filter with
a crossover point variable from 50Hz to 250Hz.

Punch EQ

A Gyrator based Punch EQ that eliminates frequency
shift with boost. This works along with the crossover
switch on the amplifier.

Infrasonic Filter

A fixed 28Hz 12dB/octave filter designed to prevent
frequencies below the audio range from being applied
to the subwoofer from the amplifier. Consequently
improving subwoofer performance and power han­dling, particularly in vented enclosures. (P500X1BD,
P10001BD, P1000X5)

Subwoofer Input

Setting this switch to the “On” position, utilizes the
“Sub” inputs. (P1000X5)

Centering Indicators

Indicators are located on the bottom side of the
amplifier.

FRONT REAR

RIGHTLEFT

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

SPEAKERS

RIGHTLEFT

SUB

Intput Clip Indicator

The input clip indicator works in con­junction with the audio source volume

Speaker Terminals

The Speaker Terminals are nickel-plated

knob, illuminating red when audio

source reaches it’s clipping point.

captive c-clamp wire connectors (+ and -)
will accommodate 8 AWG.

RCA Input/Pass-Thru

The RCA inputs are capable of accepting signal from either high-level(speaker) to low­level(RCA). When utilizing high-level for input signal the auto turn-on feature is active.
The pass-thru RCA’s are passive, including full input signal range and auto turn-on
functionality when active.

Remote Punch Level Switch

When activated, this allows the use of a optional re-

LEFT

LEFT

RIGHT

RIGHT

INPUT

BA

INPUT CLIP

REAR SUBFRONT

2CH. - 4CH.

REMOTE

PUNCH LEVEL

REM GND

PLC-OUTPLC-IN

B+

Remote Punch Level Control - In/Out

Remotely control the output level of the amplifier. The
PLC-OUT is used to daisy-chain additional amplifiers
controlled by a single remote.

Power/REM Terminals

The power and ground will accommodate 4 AWG,
while the remote will accommodate 12 AWG.(The
REM terminal is used to remotely turn-on and

mote Punch Level Controller. (P500X1BD, P10001BD,
P1000X5)

turn-off the amplifier when +12V DC is applied.)

2/4 Channel Switch

Setting this switch to the 2CH. position, switches the
inputs to a 2-channel mode, allowing connection to
only the front inputs with a 4-channel output. (P400X4,
P600X4, P1000X5)

illus.-1.1

54

Installation Installation

Contents

•Punch Amplifier

•Mounting Hardware

•Allen Wrench

•Quick Setup Guide

•Installation & Operation Manual

•Operation CD- (Test Tones &

Installation Manual)

Installation Considerations

The following is a list of tools needed for installation:

•Fuse-holder and fuse. (See
specifications for fuse rating)

•Volt/Ohm Meter

•Wire strippers

•Wire crimpers

•Wire cutters

•#2 Phillips screwdriver

•Battery post wrench

This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for install­ing your new amplifier. Pre-planning your system layout and best wiring
routes will save installation time. When deciding on the layout of your new
system, be sure that each component will be easily accessible for making
adjustments.

If you feel unsure about installing this sys­tem yourself, have it installed by a qualified
technician.

Before installation, disconnect the battery neg­ative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit,
fire and/or possible injury.

Before beginning any installation, follow these simple rules:

1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before
attempting to install the unit.

2. For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
beginning the installation.

3. For easier assembly, we suggest you run all wires prior to mounting
your unit in place.

4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any high
current wires.

5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to minimize
signal or power loss.

•Hand held drill w/assorted bits

•Assorted connectors

•Adequate Length—Red Power

Wire

•Adequate Length—Remote
Turn-on Wire

•Adequate Length—Black
Grounding Wire

6. Think before you drill! Be careful not to cut or drill into gas tanks, fuel
lines, brake or hydraulic lines, vacuum lines or electrical wiring when
working on any vehicle.

7. Never run wires underneath the vehicle. Running the wires inside the
vehicle provides the best protection.

8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or
plastic grommets to protect any wires routed through metal, especially
the firewall.

9. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage with
proper fusing. Install the appropriate fuse holder and fuse on the +12V
power wire within 18” (45.7 cm) of the battery terminal.

10. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle, scrape all paint from
the metal to ensure a good, clean ground connection. Grounding
connections should be as short as possible and always be connected
to metal that is welded to the main body, or chassis, of the vehicle.
Seatbelt bolts should never be used for connecting to ground.

Mounting Locations

To ensure optimal performance, mount the amplifier with at least 1”
(2.54cm) of air gap around the amplifier’s heat sink to provide proper
cooling.

Amplifier Centering Indicators

Centering indicators have been incorporated into the amplifier’s
heatsink to aid in the installation process.

Trunk Mounting

Mounting the amplifier vertically or inverted will provide adequate cool­ing of the amplifier. Mounting the amplifier on the floor of the trunk will
provide the best cooling of the amplifier.

Passenger Compartment Mounting

Mounting the amplifier in the passenger compartment will work as long as
you provide a sufficient amount of air for the amplifier to cool itself. If you
are going to mount the amplifier under the seat of the vehicle, you must
have at least 1” (2.54cm) of air gap around the amplifier’s heat sink.

Never mount this unit in the engine compart­ment. Mounting the unit in the engine com­partment will void your warranty.

Battery and Charging

Amplifiers will put an increased load on the vehicle’s battery and charging
system. We recommend checking your alternator and battery condition
to ensure that the electrical system has enough capacity to handle the
increased load of your stereo system. Stock electrical systems which are
in good condition should be able to handle the extra load of any Prime
Series amplifier without problems, although battery and alternator life can
be reduced slightly. To maximize the performance of your amplifier, we
suggest the use of a heavy duty battery and an energy storage capacitor.

Wiring the System

If you do not feel comfortable with wiring your
new unit, please see your local Authorized
Rockford Fosgate Dealer for installation.

Before installation, disconnect the battery neg­ative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit,
fire and/or possible injury.

Avoid running power wires near the low level
input cables, antenna, power leads, sensitive
equipment or harnesses. The power wires car­ry substantial current and could induce noise
into the audio system.

1. Plan the wire routing. Keep RCA cables close together but isolated
from the amplifier’s power cables and any high power auto accessories,
especially electric motors. This is done to prevent coupling the noise
from radiated electrical fields into the audio signal. When feeding
the wires through the firewall or any metal barrier, protect them with
plastic or rubber grommets to prevent short circuits. Leave the wires
long at this point to adjust for a precise fit at a later time.

2. Prepare the RED wire (power cable) for attachment to the amplifier by
stripping 1/2” of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the bared
wire into the B+ terminal and tighten the set screw to secure the cable
in place.

NOTE: The B+ cable MUST be fused 18” or less from the vehicle’s battery.
Install the fuse holder under the hood and ensure connections are water
tight.

3. Trim the RED wire (power cable) within 18” of the battery and splice in
a inline fuse holder (not supplied). See Specifications for the rating of
the fuse to be used. DO NOT install the fuse at this time.

4. Strip 1/2” from the battery end of the power cable and crimp an
appropriate size ring terminal to the cable. Use the ring terminal to
connect to the battery positive terminal.

5. Prepare the BLACK wire (Ground cable) for attachment to the amplifier
by stripping 1/2” of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the bare
wire into the GROUND terminal and tighten the set screw to secure the
cable in place. Prepare the chassis ground by scraping any paint from
the metal surface and thoroughly clean the area of all dirt and grease.
Strip the other end of the wire and attach a ring connector. Fasten the
cable to the chassis using a non-anodized screw and a star washer.

NOTE: Keep the length of the BLACK wire (Ground) as short as possible.
Always less than 30”.

6. Prepare the Remote turn-on wire for attachment to the amplifier by
stripping 1/2” of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the bared
wire into the REMOTE terminal and tighten the set screw to secure the
wire in place. Connect the other end of the Remote wire to a switched
12 volt positive source. The switched voltage is usually taken from the

source unit’s remote amp on lead. If the source unit does not have this
output available, the recommended solution is to wire a mechanical
switch in line with a 12 volt source to activate the amplifier.

NOTE: When utilizing high-level for input signal the auto turn-on feature

is active. With the auto turn-on active, the REM becomes an output to turn

on/off up to two additional amplifiers or other accessories.

7. Securely mount the amplifier to the vehicle or amp rack. Be careful not
to mount the amplifier on cardboard or plastic panels. Doing so may
enable the screws to pull out from the panel due to road vibration or
sudden vehicle stops.

8. Connect from source signal by plugging into the RCA input jacks
at the amplifier. The input sensitivity ranges from 150mV-12V
to accommodate signal from either high-level(speaker) to low­level(RCA).

NOTE: All “ACTIVE” inputs must have RCA jacks connected. Switch in
2CH. position,“ACTIVE” - Front channel inputs only. Switch in 4CH.
position,“ACTIVE” - All Front and Rear channel inputs. Switch in FRONT.
position,“ACTIVE” - Front channel inputs only for sub output. Switch in
SUB position,“ACTIVE” - Sub inputs for sub output. When connecting
to the 5-Channel inputs, be sure to route front, rear and sub RCA cables
tightly together.

Always ensure power is off or disconnected at
the amplifier before connecting RCA cables.
Failure to do so may cause damage to the am­plifier and/or connected components.

9. Connect the speakers. Strip the speaker wires 1/2” and insert into the
speaker terminal and tighten the set screw to secure into place. Be
sure to maintain proper speaker polarity. DO NOT chassis ground any
of the speaker leads as unstable operation may result.

10. Perform a final check of the completed system wiring to ensure that all
connections are accurate. Check all power and ground connections
for frayed wires and loose connections which could cause problems.
Install inline fuse near battery connection.

NOTE: Follow the diagrams for proper signal polarity.

This amplifier is not recommended for im­pedance loads below 2-Ohm stereo/4-Ohm
bridged for the multi-channel amplifiers and
1-ohm for mono amplifiers.

76