DS18 ZXI Series - User Manual

This document is an owner's manual for DS18/ZXI Series amplifiers, providing comprehensive information on their function, installation, technical specifications, and warranty.

The DS18/ZXI Series amplifiers are designed for high-quality music reproduction in automobiles. They feature fully variable crossovers with 12 dB per octave slopes, allowing users to tailor the sound to their speakers and listening preferences. These crossovers promote installation ease and can be used in conjunction with outboard passive or active crossovers, depending on system complexity. The 12 dB per octave slope ensures a steep roll-off above or below the selected frequency. The amplifiers also incorporate platinum finish connections for solid electrical connections that resist corrosion.

Important Technical Specifications (across various models like ZXI.2, ZXI.2XL, ZXI.4, ZXI.4XL, ZXI.1, ZXI.1XL, ZXI.1XXL, ZXI.5, ZXI.6):

• Channels: Available in 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6 channel configurations.
• RMS Power Output:
  • @ 4 Ohm: Ranges from 100W x 2CH (ZXI.2) to 1500W x 1CH (ZXI.1XXL) for single-channel models, and up to 200W x 6CH (ZXI.6) for multi-channel models.
  • @ 2 Ohm: Ranges from 185W x 2CH (ZXI.2) to 2400W x 1CH (ZXI.1XXL) for single-channel models, and up to 320W x 6CH (ZXI.6) for multi-channel models.
  • @ 1 Ohm: Available on some models, reaching up to 3000W x 1CH (ZXI.1XXL).
  • @ 4 Ohm Bridge: Ranges from 370W x 1CH (ZXI.2) to 800W x 2CH (ZXI.4XL) for multi-channel models, and up to 640W x 3CH (ZXI.6).
• Peak Power Output: Significantly higher than RMS, with @ 1 Ohm reaching up to 4000W x 1CH (ZXI.1XXL).
• Minimum Impedance: Typically 2 Ohm for multi-channel models and 1 Ohm for monoblock models. ZXI.5 supports 2 Ohm for F&R CHS and 1 Ohm for SUB.
• Frequency Response: Generally 20-20KHz for multi-channel models and 20-500Hz for monoblock models.
• THD %: 0.10% across most models, with ZXI.6 at <0.3%.
• Input Sensitivity: 0.2-6V.
• Signal/Noise Ratio: >90 dB across all models.
• Subsonic Frequency: 10-55Hz for monoblock and 5-channel models.
• Crossover High Pass: 40-4KHz for multi-channel models, 50Hz-5KHz for ZXI.6.
• Crossover Low Pass: 40-4KHz for multi-channel models, 50-250Hz for monoblock and 5-channel models, 50Hz-5KHz for ZXI.6.
• Phase: 0-180 degrees for monoblock and 5-channel models.
• Bass Boost: 0-18dB across all models.
• Operation Voltage: 8.5-16.8V.
• Fuse Rating: Varies significantly by model, from 35A (ZXI.2) to 300A (ZXI.1XXL).
• Power Input Size: 4GA or 0GA (for higher power models).
• Remote Knob: Available on monoblock and 5-channel models.
• Dimensions (LxDxH): Vary by model, e.g., 7.1 x 5.7 x 1.9 inches (ZXI.2) to 15.4 x 5.7 x 1.9 inches (ZXI.1XXL).

Usage Features:

• Adjustable Input Sensitivity ("Gain"): Allows the amplifier to be more sensitive to the input from the stereo. Users are advised to run the gain at the lowest possible setting to minimize noise from the car's electrical system.
• Protection Circuitry: Designed to protect the amplifier from overload, short circuit, thermal issues, low voltage, high voltage, and reverse polarity, preventing common causes of amplifier failure.
• Multi-channel Design: Equipped with large block-style terminals for secure speaker connections. Users must ensure no loose or frayed wire strands to prevent short circuits.
• Crossover Controls: Essential for filtering unwanted frequencies from speakers. Proper adjustment ensures each speaker plays the correct frequency range, preventing damage to tweeters from bass notes and ensuring natural sound from subwoofers.
• Installation Flexibility: Amplifiers can be mounted in the hatch/trunk or under/behind seats, with a focus on adequate ventilation. Fins should face up, either vertically or horizontally.
• First-time Setup: Instructions guide users to start with the head unit volume low and gradually increase it, making one adjustment at a time for optimal tuning.

Maintenance Features:

• Professional Installation Recommended: To ensure optimal performance and potentially extend the product warranty, professional installation by an authorized DS18/ZXI Series amps dealer is highly recommended.
• Wiring Precautions: The manual emphasizes careful wiring, including disconnecting the car battery, using appropriate gauge wire with a fuse close to the battery, and securing a good ground connection. It warns against short circuits and improper wiring that could lead to fire or amplifier protection mode.
• Battery Voltage Monitoring: During the tuning process, users are advised to check battery voltage periodically and recharge if it gets low, as the amplifier draws current.
• Warranty Information:
  • Service requires consulting the dealer or DS18 CAR AUDIO Local Dealer and obtaining a Return Authorization Number.
  • A copy of the purchase receipt from an authorized dealer is required for in-warranty service.
  • The warranty is non-transferable and does not apply to products purchased from unauthorized dealers.
  • It does not cover removal/reinstallation costs or shipping to DS18.
  • The warranty is void if the product is abused, misused, improperly powered, or damaged due to accident, mishandling, improper installation, negligence, normal wear and tear, excessive water/heat, or freight damage.
  • DS18 is not responsible for damages to a vehicle or person from product failure or for incidental/consequential damages.

Elite Z Amps General Features (highlighted on the back cover):

• Compact size for easy installation.
• Surface mount component technology.
• Audio precision quality control verification.
• Stable/reliable four layers traces PCB layout design.
• LED lights indicate working status: power/protection/clipping.
• Tiffany RCA jack and directed insert terminals.