Need help?Do you have a question about the Alpine 3522S and is the answer not in the manual?
Explains 2/1 channel, multimode, and 3-channel setups.
Covers Active Dividing Network, Duo-B, S.T.A.R., and no current limiting.
Details Input Mode Selector, Gain Control, and Status Monitor.
Covers DC-DC supply, heavy-duty construction, speaker/RCA inputs, and filtering.
Identifies and explains the function of each terminal and switch.
Details correct connection of speaker leads and input signals.
Instructions for connecting power, ground, and remote turn-on leads.
Details alternative remote turn-on connections based on head unit features.
Explains settings for stereo, mono, and bridged modes.
Guides on setting input gain for optimal volume without distortion.
Settings for low-pass, high-pass, and full-range filter modes.
Explanation of the status indicator light behavior.
Shows power output versus total harmonic distortion.
Illustrates audio frequency range amplification.
Defines terms and lists components for Main P.C. Board, Diodes, ICs, Transistors, Coils, Thermistors, Switches.
Lists all capacitor and resistor components.
Lists components for IN-OUT and Idling PC Boards, and miscellaneous items.
Important notes and illustration on product packaging.
Lead identification for µPC4570HA ICs.
Lead identification for µPC1270H ICs.
Lead identification for µPC494C IC.
The Alpine 3522S is a bridgeable power amplifier designed to enhance car audio systems. It offers flexible operation modes, advanced audio circuitry, and robust construction, making it a versatile component for various sound setups.
The Alpine 3522S functions primarily as a power amplifier, boosting audio signals to drive speakers. Its core capability lies in its 2/1 Channel Operation, allowing it to be configured as either a 2-channel amplifier or a 1-channel amplifier. In a 2-channel setup, it can power two speakers in stereo. When configured as a 1-channel amplifier, it can be bridged to deliver higher power output to a single speaker, typically a subwoofer.
A key feature is its Multimode Capability, which enables the 3522S to operate in both 2-channel stereo and bridged mono modes simultaneously. This allows for a flexible system where the amplifier can drive a pair of satellite speakers in stereo while also powering a bridged mono subwoofer or a center channel speaker. This 3, 2, or 1 Channel Operation provides users with the flexibility to create a 3-channel system (stereo satellites plus mono subwoofer/center), a conventional 2-channel stereo system, or a high-power 1-channel bridged system.
The amplifier incorporates an Active Dividing Network, a built-in, switchable electronic crossover network operating at 80 Hz with an 18 dB per octave slope. This network can be configured for low-pass (subwoofer) or high-pass (tweeter/midrange satellite) applications, allowing for precise frequency management. It can also be switched off for full-range signal amplification, providing flexibility for different speaker types.
Audio quality is further enhanced by DUO-B Feedback Circuitry. This proprietary circuit stabilizes the amplifier, eliminates DC offset, and contributes to excellent total harmonic distortion (T.H.D.) characteristics. It also ensures low T.I.M. (Transient Intermodulation Distortion), excellent slew factor, stability, and overall musicality, aiming for a clean and accurate sound reproduction.
The design emphasizes sound purity with No Current Limiting in the audio section. This absence of current limiters helps maintain low T.I.M., excellent transient response, and superb sonic quality, preventing signal compression or distortion that can occur with traditional current limiting circuits.
S.T.A.R. Circuitry (Signal Transit for Accurate Response) is another Alpine-developed technology integrated into the 3522S. This circuit topology is designed to improve sonic properties by reducing interaction between different sections of the circuitry, leading to a clearer and more defined audio output.
The amplifier also features an Input Mode Selector switch. This allows the user to specify the input signal type, eliminating the need for RCA-type Y-adaptors when bridging the amplifier, simplifying installation and reducing potential signal degradation.
The Alpine 3522S is designed for ease of use and flexible integration into various car audio setups. Its DC-to-DC Switching Mode Power Supply ensures consistent power output across the entire audio bandwidth (20 Hz to 20 kHz), with soft clipping characteristics for smooth transient response.
For connectivity, the amplifier offers both RCA Input Connectors for line-level signals from head units with preamp outputs and Speaker Input Leads for head units without preamp outputs. This broad compatibility allows it to be integrated into almost any car audio system. The input gain is continuously adjustable, allowing users to match the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output level of their head unit, preventing distortion and maximizing dynamic range.
The amplifier's Gold-Plated, Screw-Down Power and Speaker Terminals ensure secure and corrosion-resistant connections for both power and speaker wires, which is crucial for maintaining signal integrity and power delivery. Insulation tubes are provided to cover these terminals after connections, preventing inadvertent short circuits.
The Active Dividing Network Mode Selector Switch allows users to easily configure the crossover for low-pass (subwoofer), high-pass (tweeter/midrange satellite), or full-range operation. This is essential for optimizing the sound stage and protecting speakers from inappropriate frequencies.
A Remote Turn-On Lead (Blue/White) connects to the head unit's remote turn-on or power antenna lead, ensuring the amplifier powers on and off with the rest of the system. A dedicated Ground Lead (Black) is provided for a secure connection to the vehicle's chassis, minimizing ground loops and noise.
The Input Gain Adjustment Control is a crucial feature for proper system setup. After setting the head unit's volume to about 1/4 of its maximum output, users can adjust this control with a flat blade screwdriver to achieve maximum volume without distortion.
The Alpine 3522S is built with durability and user-friendly troubleshooting in mind. Its Extra Heavy Duty Construction ensures robust performance and longevity in the demanding automotive environment.
A key maintenance and troubleshooting feature is the Status Monitor. This indicator illuminates green when the amplifier is on and operational. If any internal protection circuitry is activated due to an issue, the light will turn orange. This visual cue helps users quickly identify if there's a problem with the amplifier. The manual advises users to turn off the system, find the cause of the problem (e.g., checking connections and wiring), and remedy the situation. It also notes that the indicator may briefly turn orange during power-on as the turn-on muting circuit activates, which is normal.
The amplifier includes a 15A Fuse for battery protection, located on the power terminal block. This fuse safeguards the vehicle's electrical system in case of a short circuit. The manual recommends adding an in-line 25A fuse as close as possible to the battery's positive terminal for additional protection.
The internal design features High Performance, Low Noise, Audiophile Quality Active and Passive Components, along with Voltage Regulated/Filtered Input Stages and Third-Order (18 dB per Octave) Capacitive/Inductive Power Supply Input and Output Filtering. These components and design choices contribute to the amplifier's reliability and consistent performance, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
The Fully Discrete, Complementary Output Circuitry is a robust design choice that enhances performance and reliability, making the amplifier less prone to common failure modes.
For troubleshooting, the manual provides a "Before you think it's a malfunction..." section, guiding users through common issues like no power, protection indicator lighting up, or no sound. This self-help guide covers checks for power connections, fuses, speaker impedance, and input mode settings, empowering users to resolve minor issues before seeking professional service.
General| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Power at 4 Ohms | 30W x 2 |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz - 50kHz |
| THD | 0.08% |
| Input Impedance | 10k ohms |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 100dB |
| Input Sensitivity | 200mV - 4V |
| Power Output (RMS) | 30W x 2 (4 Ohms, 20Hz - 20kHz, 0.08% THD) |
To Next Page
