The provided document is a user manual for Lightning Audio mono amplifiers, specifically covering the LA-600M, LA-1000MD, LA-2000MD, and LA-3000MD models. It details their functions, technical specifications, installation procedures, operation, troubleshooting, and warranty information.
Function Description
These devices are mono amplifiers designed to boost audio signals for car audio systems, primarily for subwoofers. They feature various controls for signal input, output, and sound shaping, including level control, crossover filters, bass boost, and subsonic filters. The "MD" models (LA-1000MD, LA-2000MD, LA-3000MD) also support a Master/Slave configuration for linking multiple amplifiers.
Important Technical Specifications
The manual provides detailed power ratings (MAX and RMS) at different impedance levels (4Ω, 2Ω, 1Ω), crossover characteristics, and physical dimensions for each model:
LA-600M:
- Power Rating:
- MAX: 400 x 1 @ 4Ω, 600 x 1 @ 2Ω
- RMS: 200 x 1 @ 4Ω, 300 x 1 @ 2Ω
- Crossover: 12dB/Oct HP/FULL/LPBP (High-Pass/Full/Low-Pass/Bandpass)
- Crossover Frequency: Variable, 40Hz - 150Hz
- Subsonic Filter: Variable, 15Hz - 55Hz
- Bass Boost: 0 to +12dB @ 45Hz (Remote Included)
- Inputs: RCA
- Fuse(s): 25A(2)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 9.8" x 9.4" x 2.3"
LA-1000MD:
- Power Rating:
- MAX: 500 x 1 @ 4Ω, 750 x 1 @ 2Ω, 1000 x 1 @ 1Ω
- RMS: 250 x 1 @ 4Ω, 375 x 1 @ 2Ω, 500 x 1 @ 1Ω
- Crossover: 12dB/Oct Low Pass
- Crossover Frequency: Variable, 35Hz - 250Hz
- Subsonic Filter: Variable, 15Hz - 55Hz
- Bass Boost: 0 to +18dB @ 45Hz (Remote Included)
- Inputs: RCA / Balanced Input
- Fuse(s): 30A(2)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 11" x 9.4" x 2.3"
LA-2000MD:
- Power Rating:
- MAX: 1000 x 1 @ 4Ω, 1500 x 1 @ 2Ω, 2000 x 1 @ 1Ω
- RMS: 400 x 1 @ 4Ω, 700 x 1 @ 2Ω, 1000 x 1 @ 1Ω
- Crossover: 12dB/Oct Low Pass
- Crossover Frequency: Variable, 35Hz - 250Hz
- Subsonic Filter: Variable, 15Hz - 55Hz
- Bass Boost: 0 to +18dB @ 45Hz (Remote Included)
- Inputs: RCA / Balanced Input
- Fuse(s): 50A(2)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 13.8" x 9.4" x 2.3"
LA-3000MD:
- Power Rating:
- MAX: 1500 x 1 @ 4Ω, 2250 x 1 @ 2Ω, 3000 x 1 @ 1Ω
- RMS: 600 x 1 @ 4Ω, 1000 x 1 @ 2Ω, 1400 x 1 @ 1Ω
- Crossover: 12dB/Oct Low Pass
- Crossover Frequency: Variable, 35Hz - 250Hz
- Subsonic Filter: Variable, 15Hz - 55Hz
- Bass Boost: 0 to +18dB @ 45Hz (Remote Included)
- Inputs: RCA / Balanced Input
- Fuse(s): 70A(2)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 15" x 9.4" x 2.3"
All models feature a Level Control, Crossover Filter Switch (FULL, HP, LP), Adjustable Crossover Frequency Control (12dB/Oct), and Speaker Connector Terminals. The MD models additionally include Pass Thru Outputs, Subsonic Control, Extended Bass Control (Bass Boost, Q-Control, Phase & Frequency Range), and an Output Mode Switch (Master/Slave).
Usage Features
The manual outlines comprehensive usage features, from initial installation to fine-tuning audio output:
- Installation:
- Safety First: Emphasizes disconnecting the battery negative terminal before installation and cautioning against drilling into vehicle components (gas tanks, fuel lines, etc.).
- Mounting: Recommends a secure location with ample cooling space, avoiding cardboard or plastic panels.
- Wiring: Provides detailed steps for connecting power (B+, GND, REM), ensuring proper fusing and grounding. It advises keeping RCA cables isolated from power cables to prevent noise.
- Signal Input: Supports both RCA inputs (line level) and Balanced Inputs (for source units with speaker line outputs). Users should only use one input configuration.
- Speaker Connection: Instructions for connecting speakers, emphasizing proper polarity and avoiding chassis grounding of speaker leads.
- Master/Slave Configuration (MD models only): Explains how to set up multiple MD amplifiers, designating one as master and others as slaves, with RCA cables connecting the slave in/out jacks from the master's slave in/out jacks. Only adjustments made to the master amplifier affect the output in this setup.
- Operation:
- Adjusting Level: Guides users on setting the amplifier gain level by turning the source unit volume up until distortion is audible, then slowly down, and then increasing the amplifier level until distortion is audible again, and slowly down until it's inaudible. It notes that proper level setting is best done by a professional using an oscilloscope.
- Adjusting Crossover: Instructions for selecting the appropriate crossover filter switch position (HP/FULL/LPBP or Low Pass) and adjusting the crossover frequency knob to achieve the desired crossover point (e.g., 80Hz for subwoofers, 100Hz for full-range).
- Subsonic Filter: Explains the variable 15-55Hz high-pass filter designed to prevent frequencies below the audio range from being applied to the subwoofer, allowing users to set it to personal preference.
- Extended Bass Control (MD models only): Allows for fine-tuning bass boost, Q-control, phase, and frequency range.
Maintenance Features
The manual provides troubleshooting steps and warranty information, which can be considered maintenance-related:
- Troubleshooting:
- Amplifier Does Not Turn On: Suggests checking B+ or REM voltage (should be between 10.5 and 15.5V) and inspecting the alternator, battery, fuse, and wiring.
- Amplifier Noise: Recommends checking wiring and repairing grounding issues.
- Turn-On Pop: Advises connecting a relay turn-on module to the REM terminal if pops are eliminated with no input signal.
- Engine Noise: Suggests re-routing signal cables away from sources of high current.
- Warranty Information:
- Length of Warranty: One year replacement warranty from the date of original purchase for both speakers and amplifiers, requiring proof of purchase.
- Coverage: Applies to Lightning Audio products sold by authorized dealers in the USA. Products purchased outside the USA are covered by the authorized distributor for that country. It covers only the original purchaser and requires a dated copy of the sales receipt for service. Defective products will be replaced at Lightning Audio's discretion.
- Exclusions: Damage from accident, misuse, improper installation, water/moisture, excessive heat, theft, shipping, removal/reinstallation costs, unauthorized repairs, defaced serial numbers, subsequent damage to other components, products purchased outside the U.S., or from unauthorized dealers are not covered.
- Implied Warranties: Limited to the duration of the express warranty.
- Obtaining Service: Defective products should be returned to an authorized Lightning Audio Dealer or by calling customer service to obtain a Return Authorization (RA#). An RA# is valid for 30 days. Users are responsible for shipping defective products with valid proof of purchase and the RA# marked clearly on the shipping carton. Products without a valid RA# will be refused.
The document serves as a comprehensive guide for users to install, operate, and troubleshoot their Lightning Audio mono amplifiers, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to warranty terms.
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