The AudioControl Pantages G4 is a high-performance 5-channel power amplifier designed for home theater audio systems, offering exceptional power and adaptability. Manufactured in the U.S.A., this amplifier is built for durability and long-term, trouble-free service, backed by AudioControl's 5-year warranty.
Function Description
The Pantages G4 serves as a versatile power amplifier capable of driving 3, 3.1, or 5 channels in a home theater setup. It can power five speakers in a traditional surround sound configuration, or it can be configured for a 3.1 setup, powering Left, Center, and Right channels while bridging two channels for a subwoofer. This flexibility allows users to adapt the amplifier to various speaker configurations and power demands.
The amplifier features a Class H design, which intelligently adjusts the power supply to match the power demands of the moment. This design ensures cooler operation without the need for bulky heatsinks or excessive fan use, contributing to its energy efficiency and longevity.
A key protective feature is the Lightdrive Protection System. This circuitry safeguards the amplifier and connected speakers from clipping, distortion, and damage, even during prolonged high-volume use. Each channel is independently protected, meaning an issue in one channel will not affect the performance of the others.
The Pantages G4 also incorporates High Definition BiMOS Output Design, providing high current drive capabilities to deliver substantial power into various impedance loads while maintaining cool operation.
Usage Features
The Pantages G4 offers a range of features designed for ease of use and optimal audio performance:
- Configuration Flexibility: Users can choose between a 5-channel setup for surround sound or a 3.1-channel configuration where two channels are bridged to power a passive subwoofer. The amplifier can also be configured as a 3-channel amp by bridging two pairs of channels for high-power front speakers.
- Inputs: It includes both Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, allowing connection to a variety of preamplifier outputs. The STATUS LED for each channel lights blue when operating normally.
- RCA Thru Outputs: These line-level outputs allow users to loop the audio input signal to another pair of inputs on another device or a different section of the Pantages G4, facilitating daisy-chaining for multiple amplifiers or zones.
- Level Controls: Individual channel gain adjustments are provided to calibrate the optimal signal level for driving the amplifier to full output. These controls have detents for easy matching of SPL across channels, especially for stereo signals.
- Stereo/Mono Switches: Each channel pair (1-2 and 4-5) has a switch to select between stereo operation or a combined mono output. In mono mode, the inputs are summed, requiring only one input for the pair.
- Speaker Outputs: High-current terminal blocks are designed to accept large gauge audiophile speaker wiring, pin connectors, and standard 0.75" spaced banana plugs. Polarity markings are clearly indicated for both stereo and bridged mono connections.
- Minimum Speaker Load: In stereo operation, the minimum speaker impedance is 4 Ohms. When bridged mono, the minimum impedance is 8 Ohms.
- Ground Isolation Switch: This switch allows selection of the isolation level between the audio signal ground and the AC earth ground, helping to resolve AC ground hum issues. The chassis remains connected to earth ground for safety regardless of the switch setting.
- Master Trigger: TS 1/8" connectors are available for external 12V DC trigger signals, allowing the amplifier to be turned on or placed into standby mode by an external control system, such as a home theater receiver. A blue LED indicates when the master trigger input is active.
- Power Button (Front Panel): A large button on the front panel toggles the amplifier between on and standby modes. This button functions only when the rear panel Main AC Power switch is engaged.
- Light Bar Brilliance Setting: A button on the rear panel allows users to adjust the luminescence of the front panel blue light bar to bright, dim, or off.
- Rack Mount Ears (Optional): The unit can be rack-mounted in a standard 19" wide rack with a 3U height using optional rack ears. These ears can be removed for a 17" wide chassis.
- Ventilation: The amplifier features efficient switch-mode power supplies and requires adequate ventilation. It is recommended to allow a free rack space above and below if stacking more than two units to ensure proper cooling.
Maintenance Features
- AC Power Switch (Rear Panel): This switch controls the main AC power to the unit. It is typically left on, with the front panel power button or master trigger inputs used for daily on/standby control. It should be turned off for extended periods of non-use or during electrical disturbances.
- AC Fuse: The main power supply fuse can be checked and replaced. Users are warned to unplug the power cord before checking or replacing the fuse and to use only the exact same type of fuse indicated on the unit. If the fuse blows again immediately, professional service is recommended.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a troubleshooting section to help users diagnose common issues such as no sound, speaker channels cutting in and out, or buzzing/crackling at high volume. It provides steps to verify connections, settings, and speaker impedance.
- LED Function Table: A table explains the meaning of the different LED colors on the front panel (Blue for on, Red for standby, Off for powered off, Bright Red for DC Error, Yellow for "Jumping to Hyperspace" - a humorous placeholder).
- Service Information: Detailed instructions are provided for obtaining service, including contact information for AudioControl Tech Support, hours of operation, and requirements for returning a unit for repair (RA number, proof of purchase, problem description, return address, and proper packaging).
- Warranty: The amplifier comes with a conditional warranty of five years if installed by an authorized AudioControl dealer, or one year otherwise. Conditions include product registration within 15 days of purchase, retention of the sales receipt, and proper installation and use. The warranty is void if the serial number is altered, defaced, removed, or if the product has been improperly used or serviced by unauthorized personnel.
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