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SpeakerCraft
Big Bang
Digital Power Amplifiers
DBB12100
Owner’s Manual
®
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Thank you for purchasing the SpeakerCraft DBB12100 digital power
amplifier. The DBB12100 contains the excellent performance and
reliability that SpeakerCraft products have been recognized for. The
DBB12100 features the flexibility needed for demanding custom
installation applications. It is ideal for use in home theater, stereo,
multi-room, multi-zone and commercial applications. For best performance, please carefully read the instructions in this manual.
WARNING: This amplifier uses Bridged (BTL) outputs. Speaker
connections must be completely separate for each channel and
have NO common ground connections through any connected
Speaker Selectors, VCs, etc. Failure to observe this may void the
warranty.
Front Panel Diagram 4
Rear Panel Diagram 6
System Design & Operation Considerations 8
System Design Examples 9
Installation Considerations 20
Installation 20
Operation 22
Troubleshooting 23
Specifications 25
Warranty 27
Table Of Contents Page
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Explanation of Graphical Symbols
1. Read Instructions - All the safety and operating
instructions should be read before the appliance
is operated.
2. Retain Instructions - The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance
and in the operating instructions should be
adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions - All operating and other
instructions should be followed.
5. Water and Moisture - The appliance should
not be used near water - for example, near a
bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in
a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.
6. Carts and Stands - The appliance should be
used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.
PORTABLE CART
WARNING
7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting - The appliance
should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as
recommended by the manufacturer.
8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so
that its location or position does not interfere with
its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance
should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or
similar surface that may block the ventilation
openings; or placed in a built-in installation, such
as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the
flow of air through the ventilation openings.
9. Heat - The appliance should be situated away
from heat sources such as radiators, stoves, or
other appliances that produce heat.
10. Power Source - The appliance should be
connected to a power supply only of the type
described in the operating instructions or as
marked on the appliance.
11. Power-Cord Protection - Power-supply cords
should be routed so that they are not likely to
be walked on or pinched by items placed upon
or against them, paying particular attention to
cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and
the point where they exit from the appliance.
12. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned
only as recommended by the manufacturer.
13. Nonuse Periods - The power cord of the
appliance should be unplugged from the outlet
when left unused for a long period of time.
14. Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be
taken so that objects do not fall into and liquids
not spilled into the inside of the appliance.
15. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance
should be serviced by qualified service personnel
when:
a. The power-supply cord or the plug has been
damaged; or
b. Objects have fallen onto, or liquid has been
spilled into the appliance; or
c. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or
d. The appliance does not appear to operate
normally or exhibits a marked change in
performance; or
e. The appliance has been dropped, or the
cabinet damaged.
16. Servicing - The user should not attempt to
service the appliance beyond those means
described in the operating instructions. All other
servicing should be referred to qualified service
personnel.
17. Grounding or Polarization - The precautions
that should be taken so that the grounding or
polarization means of an appliance is not
defeated.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
you to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous
voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may
be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert you to the presence of
important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying the
appliance.
APPLICABLE FOR USA, CANADA OR WHERE
APPROVED FOR USAGE
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH
WIDE BLADE PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, INSERT FULLY.
ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, INTRODUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE
LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE
LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU AU FOND.
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove
cover (or back). No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing
to qualified service personnel.
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Diagram 1 - Front Panel
Master power switch. Turns off power
to amplifier and Power Mode Circuitry.
Protection LEDs indicate that either a fault in
the wiring, the speaker, or the amplifier has
caused the related amplifier to shut down.
Active LED indicates that the amplifier is working.
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Gold plated “LINE” inputs
allow individual channel
inputs to be driven by
any audio source. Useful
for connection to the
Zone Outputs of multizone Preamp Controllers.
Input Selector
switch allows you
to switch between
the common BUS,
the common AUX,
or the individual
LINE inputs.
This switch allows you to
select which stereo input
channel from the BUS or
Aux inputs will play
through to the speaker
outputs: L, R, or L+R.
L+R combines both Right
and Left input channels
(mono) and feeds them
to the speaker outputs.
Speaker Output Binding Posts. These allow the use of
stripped speaker wire, spade connectors, or banana plugs.
WARNING: This amplifier uses Bridged (BTL) outputs.
Speaker connections must be completely separate for
each channel and have NO common ground connections through any connected Speaker Selectors, VCs,
etc. Failure to observe this may void the warranty.
3-prong removable
power plug.
15A/250V Fuse
Level controls for
each channel.
Main bus inputs allow pre-out levels
from receivers, preamps, etc. to be
amplified across all channels for
easy common source multi-room
applications. Auxiliary inputs allow
an additional audio source to be
played on any channel that is
switched to AUX.
Bus and Aux outputs allow the
Bus and Aux inputs to be sent
to other amplifier inputs or a
daisy chain without the need
for ‘Y’ cables or splitters.
3-30V AC or DC applied to this input will trigger
the amplifier On. The amplifier will go Off when
the voltage drops below 1V. A trigger source
could be the STAT output of the Eazy6 6-Zone
Preamplifer. The font panel power switch must be
in the depressed ON position for this to operate.
Diagram 2 - Rear Panel
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TRIGGER Input Jack
3-30V AC or DC applied to this input will trigger the amplifier On. The amplifier
will go Off when the voltage drops below 1V. Some components have voltage
outputs, usually labeled “Trigger”, “Control Out” or “Status Out” that are
designed for this use. They are intended to be part of an automated system to
enable power ON/OFF control of connected amplifiers. A trigger source could
also be the STAT output of the Eazy6 6-Zone Preamplifier.
NOTE: The front panel power switch on the DBB12100 must be in the
depressed ON position for the Trigger mode to operate
There are many ways to configure the DBB12100 amplifier. The following
pages contain some typical installation examples. Use these examples to
generate ideas for your system design.
Multi-Room Installation Example (Diagram 3)
This illustrates the simplest use of the DBB12100, distributing audio throughout
the home. In this example only one source can be selected at a time, all pairs of
speakers have the same audio signal available. The Input Selection switch is set
to “BUS” on all channels. Adjacent channels are assigned left and right.
Multi-Zone Example #1 (Diagram 4)
This illustrates the simplest way to provide an audio signal to one area that is
independent of the main audio signal. Zone 2 uses a CD player connected to
just that Zone. The rest of the system operates Zone 1 and is connected to
the preamplifier / receiver. The Input Selection switch on channels 1-10 is set
to “BUS” with adjacent channels assigned left and right. The Input Selection
Switch on channels 11 and 12 are set to “LINE”.
Multi-Zone Example #2 (Diagram 5)
This illustrates the ability to listen to different audio signals in each zone, independent of every other zone. The system relies on a multi-zone preamplifier
or up to 6 independent preamplifiers. The Input Selection switch on each
channel is set to “LINE”
Home Theater / Multi-Room Example (Diagram 6)
This configuration allows the user to access the sources connected to a home
theater receiver for use in a multi-room installation. It relies on the home theater
receiver having a multi-room or similar output. The Input Selection switch on
each channel is set to “BUS” with adjacent channels assigned left and right.
Home Theater Example (Diagram 7)
This example uses the power amplifier to drive the speakers in the home
theater system. The two channels remaining are used to provide music to a
separate area or room.
To best understand system design and operation of the DBB12100, it is useful
to understand the following terms and features:
Multi-Room
A system design that plays the same source at the same time in all rooms. If a
change is made in one room, the same change takes place in all other
rooms. For example, if a listener changes from CD to Tuner in the bedroom,
the same change will be heard in the kitchen.
Multi-Zone
A system design that allows different sources to be played in each room. A
change in one room can be made without changing the other rooms. For
example the CD player can be heard in the bedroom while the kitchen is
playing the tuner.
Source
Component, audio or video, that provides an audio signal. Examples are CD,
VCR, DVD, tape deck and tuner. The source provides the audio information
that is amplified by the DBB12100.
Channel
A distinct unit of the amplifier that provides output to one speaker. On the
DBB12100, the input to each channel can be configured to select from the
BUS INPUT, the AUX INPUT or that channel’s unique CHANNEL INPUT.
Level Controls
Allows any of the channels to be adjusted independently to raise or lower the
output of each channel. This may be used to control the speaker output in
order to balance different rooms or areas of the system.
BUS•AUX•LINE Switch
Allows each channel to play a variety of different inputs. Depending on the
switch position the channel amplifies the signal connected to the BUS input,
the AUX input, or its own LINE input.
R•R+L•L Switch
When either a BUS or AUX input is selected, this switch is used to direct the
channel to play the left signal from the input “L” or the right signal from the
input “R”, or a combined right and left signal from the input “R+L”.
Bus Input
Allows the signal from a source to be distributed to any of the 12 channels
on the amplifier.
Auxiliary Inputs
Allows a the signal from a secondary source to be distributed to any of the 12
channels of the amplifier.
SYSTEM DESIGN & OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS
SYSTEM DESIGN EXAMPLES
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Diagram 3 - Multi-Room Installation
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Diagram 4 - Multi-Zone Installation #1
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Diagram 5 - Multi-Zone Installation #2
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Diagram 6 - Home Theater/Multi-Room Installation
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Diagram 7 - Home Theater Installation
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PLACEMENT
DO:
• Place the amplifier with the feet resting on a solid flat level surface.
• Place the amplifier in a well-vented area to provide proper cooling. In
areas that lack proper ventilation, such as tight cabinets or racks, it may
be necessary to install small fans to create air movement.
DON’T:
• Don’t block the ventilation holes on the top or bottom of the amplifier.
Never place it on carpeting or similar material.
• Don’t place the amplifier in any other position other than horizontal
with the feet down. Never place on its side or resting on the back
where the terminals are located.
• Don’t the amplifier near heat sources, or in an area that it would be
exposed to moisture.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
• The power supply is very large and therefore may cause a hum to be
heard in some components if they are placed very close to the amplifier.
CAUTION: All connections and switching must be done with the amplifier’s
master power switch positioned to “off”.
TRIGGER INPUT JACK SETUP
Refer to the chart below for Trigger Voltage setup:
2120
SELECTING INPUTS (See Diagrams 8 & 9)
Each channel is capable of delivering the source from many inputs. The three
main inputs are BUS, AUX and LINE IN. The selection for these inputs is done
via the Input Selection switch, marked “BUS•AUX•LINE”. To select a source for
each channel, follow the steps below:
1. Select the desired source input. Set the Input Selection switch to BUS (will
play source connected to the BUS INPUT), AUX (will play source connected to the AUX INPUT) or LINE (will play source connected to the LINE IN).
2. The BUS and AUX inputs each have a left and right input. The left, right
or combined left and right signal from these may be selected via the
switch marked “R•R+L•L”. Select the side you want the channel to deliver. Selecting “R” will play the right channel of the selected input.
Selecting “L” will play the left channel of the selected input. Selecting
“R+L” will play the combined signals of right and left.
CONNECTING THE SPEAKER WIRES (See Diagram 10)
CAUTION: Only make connections when the amplifier is turned off.
For best performance, use high quality speaker cables. The banana plug outputs on the back of the amplifier allow for a variety of ways to connect your
speakers to the amplifier.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Diagram 9
Diagram 8
Switch Settings Active Light
Connections
Insert 3.5mm mini-plug
from an external source
into the “Trigger” 3.5mm
mini-plug jack on the
back of the DBB12100.
Leave the Master Power
Button in the “On” position
(Button in).
Will light up only when
the amplifier receives a
voltage indicating the
amplifier is “On/Active”.
Will turn off once the
voltage has stopped.
Diagram 10 - Binding Post Detail
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The amplifier is designed to function trouble-free. Most problems occur
because of operating errors. If you have a problem please check the
troubleshooting list first. For technical inquires, please call 1-800-448-0976 or
e-mail us at techsupport@speakercraft.com
.
CONNECTING THE LINE LEVEL AUDIO INPUTS
CAUTION: Only make connections when the amplifier is turned off.
There are three areas that an input signal can be connected: BUS, AUX and
LINE IN. Refer to the System Design Examples to determine which is best suited
for your application.
AUDIO OUTPUTS
Sources connected to the BUS or AUX inputs can be forwarded to other
components or amplifiers by connecting to the corresponding output sections
to the right of each input section. By using standard audio patch cables, you
can connect these outputs to the inputs of another amplifier. Up to 5
SpeakerCraft amplifiers can be daisy-chained together.
AC POWER
Plug the AC cord supplied with the amplifier into the 3-prong IEC receptacle
on the rear of the amplifier. Plug the 3-prong line cord plug directly into a
120V 60 Hz wall outlet.
CAUTION: Do not plug the amplifier into the preamplifier or receiver’s
switched AC outlet. If you wish to have the amplifier turn on once the preamplifier or receiver is activated, use the TRIGGER Input.
See Diagram 1 for the location of the following:
Power Switch
The switch marked “Power” on the front panel of the amplifier will turn off all
amplifier circuitry, including the TRIGGER Input.
Active LED
When lit, the Active LED indicates that the amplifier is operating.
Protection LEDs
When lit the “Protection” LEDs located on the front of the amplifier indicate
that either a fault in the wiring, the speaker, or the amplifier has caused the
channels associated with the LED to shut down.
Level Adjustment Knobs
The level adjustment knobs on the back panel of the amplifier can be used to
adjust the level of each channel in order to closely match other levels in the
system, or to limit the maximum volume level in certain rooms.
OPERATION
TROUBLESHOOTING
No sound is heard on all channels. Audio cable to the source component
is not connected properly or the cable
is bad. Use another cable that you
know is good.
The Input Selection switch is positioned incorrectly. Refer to installation
instructions for proper settings.
Some or all of the internal fuses are
blown. Return the amplifier to your
SpeakerCraft dealer for servicing.
No sound is heard on one or some
channels.
Audio cable to the source component
is not connected properly or the cable
is bad. Use another cable that you
know is good.
The Input Selection switch is positioned incorrectly. Refer to installation
instructions for proper settings.
Check the termination points of the
speaker cable at both the amplifier
and speaker.
A speaker is not working. Make sure
by connecting the channel to a
speaker that you know to be working.
The level adjustment on the channel
is turned all the way down. Turn it
clockwise to raise the volume.
Some or all of the internal fuses are
blown. Return the amplifier to your
SpeakerCraft dealer for servicing.
The Problem Possible Causes And Solutions
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Hum or buzzing sound is heard. The sound may be caused by a
ground loop in the system. Try to
eliminate this by reversing the AC
plugs of other components in the
system.
Other causes include faulty cables.
Amplifier will not turn on. The amplifier must be plugged into a
live outlet. The power switch on the
front panel must be on.
The Power Mode switch may be positioned incorrectly.
The Problem Possible Causes And Solutions
Rated Power Output (into 8Ω, 1kHz):
100 Watts per channel
THD+N (Rated power into 8Ω, 1kHz):
<0.25%
Power Bandwidth (Rated power into 8Ω):
20Hz-20kHz ± 0.5dB
Power Output into 4Ω:
190 Watts
(Short term, one channel driven at 1kHz)
Frequency Response (1 Watt into 8Ω):
10Hz-20kHz ± 0.5 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
>95dB
Input Sensitivity:
2V RMS for Rated Power Output
(Input level pots set to Max.)
Input Impedance:
27 kOhm
Amplifier Efficiency:
>90%
Dimensions:
H 5
1
⁄4" (133mm) [+ 1⁄2" (13mm) for feet] x W 17" (432mm) x D 16" (406mm)
SPECIFICATIONS DBB12100
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NOTES
W
A
R
R
A
N
T
Y
Limited
2 YEAR
Limited Two-Year Warranty
SpeakerCraft Inc. warrants to the original retail purchaser only that this SpeakerCraft product
will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years, provided
the product was purchased from a SpeakerCraft Authorized Dealer.
Defective products must be shipped, together with proof of purchase, prepaid insured to the
SpeakerCraft Authorized Dealer from whom they were purchased, or to the SpeakerCraft factory at the address listed on this installation instruction manual. Freight collect shipments will
be refused. It is preferable to ship this product in the original shipping container to lessen
the chance of transit damage. In any case, the risk or loss or damage in transit is to be
borne by the purchaser. If upon examination at the Factory or SpeakerCraft Authorized
Dealer it is determined that the unit was defective in materials or workmanship at any time
during this warranty period, SpeakerCraft or the SpeakerCraft Authorized Dealer will, at its
option, repair or replace this product at no additional charge, except as set forth below. If
this model is no longer available and can not be repaired effectively, SpeakerCraft, at its sole
option may replace the unit with a current model of equal or greater value. In some cases
where a new model is substituted, a modification to the mounting surface may be required.
If mounting surface modification is required, SpeakerCraft assumes no responsibility or liability
for such modification. All replaced parts and product become the property of SpeakerCraft
Inc. Products replaced or repaired under this warranty will be returned to the original retail
purchaser, within a reasonable time, freight prepaid.
This warranty does not include service or parts to repair damage caused by accident, disaster,
misuse, abuse, negligence, inadequate packing or shipping procedures, commercial use, voltage inputs in excess of the rated maximum of the unit, or service, repair or modification of
the product which has not been authorized or approved by SpeakerCraft. This warranty also
excludes normal cosmetic deterioration caused by environmental conditions. This warranty
will be void if the Serial number on the product has been removed, tampered with or
defaced.
This warranty is in lieu of all other expressed warranties. If the product is defective in materials or workmanship as warranted above, the purchaser’s sole remedy shall be repair or
replacement as provided above. In no event will SpeakerCraft be liable for any incidental or
consequential damages arising out of the use or inability to use the product, even if
SpeakerCraft Inc. or a SpeakerCraft Inc. Authorized Dealer has been advised of the possibility
of such damages, or for any claim by any other party. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages, so the above limitation and exclusion may not
apply.
All implied warranties on the product are limited to the duration of this expressed warranty.
Some states do not allow limitation on the length of an implied Warranty. If the original retail
purchaser resides in such a state, this limitation does not apply.
WARRANTY
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SpeakerCraft
LITD12100
940 Columbia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507
(800) 448-0976 Fax (951) 787-8747
www.speakercraft.com
®
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