The B² Audio SLD5K is a high-efficiency Class D amplifier designed to deliver clean and dynamic sound for a variety of audio applications, whether for SPL (Sound Pressure Level) or SQ (Sound Quality) systems. This owner's manual provides comprehensive instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the amplifier. The philosophy behind B² Audio, "Better Bass," emphasizes adding something extra to your audio experience, while also cautioning users about the potential for hearing damage from continuous exposure to SPL above 100 dB. Modern high-power auto sound systems can easily exceed 140 dB, so enjoying music responsibly is encouraged.
Function Description
The SLD5K amplifier serves as a powerful audio amplification device, taking a low-level audio signal from a head unit and boosting it to drive subwoofers or speakers. Its Class D design is optimized for high efficiency, allowing for substantial power output even at lower voltages, making it suitable for demanding car audio setups. The amplifier features a range of adjustable controls to fine-tune the audio output, including gain, crossover frequencies, bass boost, and phase shift, enabling users to customize the sound to their specific preferences and system requirements. It also supports a "strapped mode" for linking two amplifiers to work as a single, more powerful unit, effectively doubling the output power for extreme performance.
Usage Features
The SLD5K offers a comprehensive set of features for precise audio control and flexible system integration:
- Input (RCA Signal Input): The amplifier accepts RCA signal input for Left & Right channels. A minimum input signal of 0.2V is required for correct operation. High-quality RCA cables are recommended to prevent amplifier malfunction or alternator whine.
- Gain (Input Sensitivity): This control adjusts the signal input voltage from the source unit to match the amplifier's input stage. It operates within a range of 0.2V to 6V. Setting the gain correctly is crucial for optimal performance and to avoid signal clipping or distortion.
- Subsonic Crossover: A variable subsonic filter from 10 Hz to 50 Hz helps protect subwoofers by filtering out extremely low frequencies that they cannot reproduce effectively. Setting this according to the tuning of your subwoofers is highly recommended to prevent unnecessary strain on your sound system.
- Bass Boost Frequency: This adjustable control allows users to select a specific frequency between 30 Hz and 90 Hz for bass enhancement.
- Bass Boost: Once a bass boost frequency is chosen, this control allows for variable signal boost from 0 dB to 9 dB at that frequency. Caution is advised when using bass boost, as boosting the wrong frequency can conflict with the performance of your enclosure design.
- LPF (Low Pass Filter): A 24 dB/octave low pass crossover, adjustable from 35 Hz to 250 Hz, allows users to set the cut-off point for the low-pass signal, ensuring that only desired low frequencies are sent to the subwoofers.
- Phase Shift: This control allows for phase adjustment from 0 to 180 degrees, which can be critical for achieving optimal sound staging and blending with other speakers in the system.
- Remote Level Control Port: This port allows for the connection of an external signal level control, providing convenient adjustment of the amplifier's output from the driver's seat. It's important to gain the amplifier in accordance with the remote to avoid excessive signal boost.
- Master / Slave Switch: This feature enables the daisy-chaining or "strapped mode" of two SLD5K amplifiers. In strapped mode, the minimum warranted impedance is 2 ohms. Detailed instructions are provided for setting up amplifiers in this linked configuration.
- Speaker Output: The amplifier connects to the speaker(s) leads. It's essential to ensure correct polarity. The speaker terminals are internally bridged, and the minimum impedance for a single amplifier is 1 ohm. In strapped mode, the minimum load is 2 ohms. High-quality speaker cable of at least 12 Ga. is recommended.
- Power and Protection Indicator: A blue LED indicates correct operation, while a red LED signifies a general malfunction, faulty connection, or thermal protection.
Maintenance Features
The SLD5K is designed with protection circuits to prevent severe damage from faulty conditions and improper use. Understanding these features and following recommended practices can significantly extend the life of the amplifier:
- Thermal Protection: If the amplifier shuts down due to excessive heat, the protection indicator will light up. Allowing the unit to cool off before resuming operation is crucial. Proper mounting that allows for vertical positioning of the heatsink fins and good ventilation is essential to prevent overheating. Avoid areas with excessive vibration or upside-down installation.
- Short Circuit Protection: The protection circuits activate if a short circuit connection is detected, turning off the amplifier. Regularly checking speaker wires and power cables for shorts is a key maintenance step.
- Speaker Overload Protection: The amplifier will enter protection mode if the connected load impedance is below the specified minimum (1 ohm for single amp, 2 ohms for strapped mode). Operating below minimum impedance will stress the amplifier, generate excessive heat, and void the warranty.
- Voltage Protection: The amplifier operates within a voltage range of 10V to 18V. Voltages outside this range will cause the amplifier to go into protect mode. Ensuring a stable and correctly dimensioned electrical system is vital.
- Fuse Rating: The SLD5K requires external fuses with a total rating of 500A. These fuses should be placed within 8 inches (20 cm) of the battery and at the amplifier's power input to protect the system and vehicle from short circuits.
- Ground Connection: A secure and short ground connection (less than 20 inches / 50 cm) to the vehicle's chassis, free of corrosion, is critical for stable operation and to prevent noise. Using minimum 0 Ga cable for ground is recommended.
- Wiring Practices: Routing RCA cables away from high-current power and speaker wires helps prevent noise and interference. Using grommets where cables penetrate the vehicle's chassis protects them from damage.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a detailed troubleshooting section to help users diagnose common issues such as the amplifier not turning on, the protection LED being lit, fuse blowing, overheating, insufficient audio output, distorted sound, and turn-on thump. This guide encourages users to check connections, impedance, gain settings, and crossover frequencies before seeking professional assistance.
By adhering to the installation guidelines, understanding the usage features, and performing regular checks as outlined in the maintenance section, users can ensure their B² Audio SLD5K amplifier delivers powerful and reliable performance for years to come.
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