The Fusion MS-AM504 is a marine amplifier designed to provide powerful and clean audio amplification in a marine environment. This 4-channel amplifier is engineered with features that ensure durability, performance, and ease of integration into various marine audio systems.
Function Description
The primary function of the MS-AM504 is to amplify audio signals from a head unit or other audio source and deliver them to speakers. It is a Class-AB amplifier, which means it combines the efficiency of Class-B amplifiers with the linearity of Class-A amplifiers, resulting in a balance of power and sound quality. The amplifier boasts a 2-Ohm stable MOSFET design, allowing it to drive multiple speakers per channel effectively. Specifically, it can connect an extra pair of speakers in parallel, accommodating up to two speakers per channel at 2-Ohms, for a total of eight speakers in a stereo configuration. This flexibility makes it suitable for various speaker setups on a boat.
The amplifier includes variable electronic crossovers for both low-pass (LP) and high-pass (HP) filtering. The low-pass filter, adjustable from 40Hz to 160Hz at 18dB/octave, is ideal for subwoofers, ensuring that only low frequencies are sent to them, preventing damage from higher frequencies. Conversely, the high-pass filter, adjustable from 40Hz to 600Hz at 18dB/octave, is used for full-range speakers, particularly those smaller than 6 inches, to block damaging low bass frequencies. A crossover selector allows users to choose between OFF, LP, and HP modes, providing precise control over the frequency range delivered to the speakers.
A variable bass boost control, ranging from 0 to +18dB at 45Hz, allows users to enhance the low-frequency output, adding depth and impact to the audio. Additionally, a variable subsonic filter, adjustable from 20Hz to 55Hz at 18dB/octave, helps protect subwoofers by filtering out extremely low, inaudible frequencies that can cause damage.
The MS-AM504 features nickel-plated RCA input and output connections, ensuring optimal signal flow and resistance to corrosion, which is crucial in a marine environment. The RCA output is a pass-through, summed output, enabling the linking of multiple amplifiers for more complex and powerful audio systems.
Usage Features
Installation and setup of the MS-AM504 are designed to be straightforward, though careful attention to detail is required for optimal performance and longevity. The amplifier requires 4-gauge power and ground connections, which are robust enough to handle the power demands. The power connection should be wired directly to the battery via an inline fuse or circuit breaker, while the ground connection should be secured to a suitable ground point. The remote turn-on terminal connects to a switched +12V source, typically from the head unit, to power the amplifier on and off automatically with the audio system.
The amplifier's input level control (gain) is critical for matching the amplifier's input sensitivity to the head unit's output level. Proper adjustment involves setting the amplifier's level to minimum, the head unit to 3/4 volume with bass and treble at zero, and then slowly increasing the amplifier's level until the desired volume is achieved without distortion. This process prevents speaker damage and ensures clean audio.
The MS-AM504 supports various channel configurations:
- Two-Channel Installation: This setup typically involves bridging two channels to power a single subwoofer or a pair of speakers with higher power.
- Three-Channel Installation: This configuration might involve two channels powering a pair of full-range speakers and the remaining two channels bridged to power a subwoofer.
- Four-Channel Installation: This is the most common setup, where each of the four channels powers a separate speaker, allowing for a stereo sound stage with front and rear speakers.
The amplifier includes power and status LEDs that provide visual feedback on its operational status. A green light indicates correct power-up, while a red light signals a fault, such as overheating or a short circuit. This diagnostic feature helps in troubleshooting potential issues.
Maintenance Features
The MS-AM504 is built with marine-grade components and construction to withstand the harsh marine environment.
- Conformal Coated Circuitry: The internal circuit boards are conformally coated, providing added protection against salt air and moisture, which are common causes of electronic failure in marine applications. This significantly extends the product's life.
- Marine Grade Chassis: The amplifier features stainless steel end and bottom plates. This robust chassis not only provides a stunning finish but also offers superior environmental protection compared to standard materials.
- Nickel Plated Connections: All RCA connectors and other critical components are nickel-plated, enhancing their resistance to corrosion and ensuring reliable signal integrity over time.
- Fuses: The amplifier is equipped with two 25A fuses, which are crucial for protecting the amplifier and the vessel's electrical system from overcurrents. Users are advised to replace fuses with the correct type and rating as specified in the manual.
- Thermal Protection: The amplifier is designed with thermal protection to prevent damage from overheating. If the amplifier gets too hot, it will enter protection mode. Proper mounting, ensuring at least 2.5 inches of clearance around the amplifier for airflow, is essential for maximizing heat dissipation and preventing the thermal protection circuit from engaging. Mounting the amplifier upside down is explicitly discouraged as it compromises heat dissipation.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a troubleshooting section to help users diagnose common issues such as the power LED not turning on, the status LED indicating a fault, or the amplifier overheating. This guide provides solutions like checking fuse integrity, verifying connections, and ensuring adequate ventilation.
Overall, the Fusion MS-AM504 marine amplifier is a robust, feature-rich device designed for high-quality audio amplification in marine settings, offering both performance and durability through its specialized construction and protective features.