Audio Control LC1i - User Manual

TWO CHANNEL LINE OUTPUT CONVERTER &
LINE DRIVER WITH IMPEDANCE MATCHING
FACTORY SYSTEM UPGRADE

Summary

Quick Start Guide

Power and Ground Connections

Explains the necessity of constant +12V power and ground connections for the LC1i operation.

GTO Signal Sense Activation

Details how the LC1i uses DC offset from the factory head unit to turn on.

Audio Sense Activation

Describes activating the LC1i by detecting an audio signal from the head unit.

Remote Input Activation

Explains the traditional method of using a remote turn-on wire for activation.

Device Configuration and Features

Ground Isolation Switch

Allows adjustment for "ground buzz" or "alternator whine" with three positions: GND, ISO, and 200 ohms.

Load Selection Switch

Tricks factory amps into detecting a speaker load to pass audio, with settings for 20, 60 ohms, and 20 kΩ.

Line Level Inputs

Details connecting Line Level inputs for use as a line driver and setting the Load Selection Switch.

Setting Output Levels

Guidance on using the Output Level knob to adjust the output level for optimal performance.

Maximized Light Indicator

Explains the function of the Maximized Light to indicate output clipping.

Remote Output Function

Describes using the Remote Output to trigger aftermarket amplifiers, with a limit of two amplifiers.

Specifications and Warranty

LC1 i Specifications

Lists technical specifications including input handling, output level, frequency response, and power draw.

Warranty Information

Details the 5-year warranty and provides the website for claims.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Power and Ground Connections
5. Remote Turn-On Options
6. Ground Isolation Switch
7. Load Selection Switch
8. Input Connections
9. Output Level Knob
10. Maximized Light
11. Remote Output (Rmt Out)
12. Installation Considerations
13. Maintenance Features

The AudioControl LC1i is a two-channel line output converter and line driver with impedance matching, designed to integrate aftermarket amplifiers with factory sound systems. It is part of the "FACTORY SYSTEM UPGRADE" series, emphasizing its role in enhancing existing vehicle audio setups.

Function Description:

The primary function of the LC1i is to convert high-level speaker signals from a factory head unit or amplifier into low-level RCA signals suitable for aftermarket amplifiers. It also acts as a line driver, boosting the signal strength to ensure a clean and robust signal reaches the amplifier. A key feature is its impedance matching capability, which "tricks" factory amplifiers into detecting a speaker load, preventing them from shutting off or reducing output when an aftermarket device is connected. This is crucial for maintaining audio output from sensitive factory systems. The device offers three different methods for remote turn-on: GTO™ Signal Sense, Audio Sense, and a traditional remote input, providing flexibility for various installation scenarios.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Max Input Handling: 40V / 400W (at 20 kΩ setting) for speaker level inputs.
• Max Output Level: 9.5 Vrms.
• Output Gain: +/- 18 dB.
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 50 kHz.
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.01%.
• Signal to Noise Ratio: >110 dB.
• Input Impedance (Speaker Level): Selectable (20 Ω, 60 Ω, 20 kΩ).
• Input Impedance (Line Level): 7 kΩ.
• Output Impedance: 150 Ω.
• Power Draw: 120 mA.
• Recommended Fuse Rating: 1 Amp.
• Weight & Dimensions (with connectors): 0.55 lbs. / 4.8"L x 3"W x 1"H.
• Warranty: 5 Years (details available on www.audiocontrol.com/warranty/).

Usage Features:

Power and Ground Connections:

The LC1i requires a constant +12V power connection and a ground connection. It is recommended to use 16 to 14 AWG wire for these connections, connecting to the vehicle battery or a distribution block. Proper grounding is essential to prevent noise.

Remote Turn-On Options:

• GTO™ Signal Sense: This mode detects a DC offset from the head unit when it's on, even if no audio is playing. It's suitable for factory systems that output a DC offset upon activation.
• Audio Sense: In this mode, the LC1i turns on only when audio is actively playing from the head unit (e.g., radio, CD, Bluetooth streaming). If the head unit is on but no audio is playing, the LC1i remains off.
• Remote Input (Rmt In): This is the traditional method, connecting the LC1i to a 12V remote turn-on source from the vehicle's ignition, fuse box, or another switched 12V source. This provides precise control over when the unit powers on.

Ground Isolation Switch:

This switch helps eliminate "ground buzz" or "alternator whine" that can interfere with audio quality. It offers three positions:

• GND: Power ground and audio ground are tied together.
• ISO: Power ground and audio ground are separate (default factory setting).
• 200Ω: Introduces 200 ohms of resistance between power ground and audio ground.

Load Selection Switch:

This feature is critical for impedance matching with factory amplifiers. It presents a simulated speaker load to prevent the factory amp from shutting off.

• 20 Ω: Best suited for late model Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep/Ram/Fiat vehicles with OEM base sound systems (no separate factory amplifier).
• 60 Ω: Best suited for late model Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep/Ram/Fiat vehicles with separately amplified OEM "premium" sound systems.
• 20 kΩ: Required setting for Line Level Inputs and suitable for all other applications.

Input Connections:

• Speaker Level Inputs: Connect to the output of the factory head unit or amplifier. The unit can handle up to 40V / 400W.
• Line Level Inputs: Can be used to connect to the output of an aftermarket source. When using line level inputs, the Load Selection Switch must be set to 20 kΩ. Signals from speaker level and line level inputs are mixed if used concurrently.

Output Level Knob:

Used to adjust the output level of the LC1i. This allows matching the LC1i's output to the input sensitivity of the aftermarket amplifier.

Maximized Light:

An indicator light that helps achieve optimal output level. It illuminates when the LC1i's output is close to clipping (distorting). Users should turn down the output level until the light turns off to ensure a clean signal. If the light never turns on, it simply means the output is not clipping.

Remote Output (Rmt Out):

Provides a 12V remote turn-on signal to trigger aftermarket amplifiers. This output is active whenever the LC1i is on, regardless of the turn-on method. It is recommended not to connect more than two amplifiers to this output to prevent damage to the LC1i.

Installation Considerations:

• Choose a mounting location that protects the LC1i from heat, moisture, and dirt, while allowing access to controls and connections.
• Use the integrated mounting brackets for secure installation.
• Exercise caution when drilling holes to avoid damaging vehicle components like fuel lines, electrical wiring, or hydraulic brake lines.
• Designate red RCA plugs for the right channel and white, black, or gray plugs for the left channel for consistent wiring.

Maintenance Features:

The manual does not explicitly detail maintenance features. However, the 5-year warranty suggests a focus on product reliability and customer support for any potential issues. Keeping the unit protected from environmental factors (heat, moisture, dirt) as recommended during installation will contribute to its longevity.

Audio Control LC1i Specifications

General

Brand	Audio Control
Model	LC1i
Category	Media Converter
Language	English