Pioneer BP-540 - User Manual

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Summary

Features and Operation

System Configurations

Describes 2-way high-power systems, fader control for front/rear volume, and input selector options.

7-Band Equalizer Control

Details the 7 frequency bands (60Hz-10kHz) for precise audio adjustment to match car acoustics.

Control Panel Functions

Explains the DEFEAT, Fader, and Equalizer controls for sound adjustment and operation.

Connecting the Unit

Pre-Connection Checks

Advises on correct selector settings and test connections to prevent unit damage.

Input and Speaker Mode Setup

Details setting Input (COMPO, BOOSTER, PIN JACK) and Speaker Mode (4SP, 2SP) selectors.

Speaker Connections

4-Speaker System Wiring

Illustrates the wiring diagram for connecting four speakers to the unit.

2-Speaker System Wiring

Illustrates the wiring diagram for connecting two speakers for high-power output.

Component Car Stereo Connection

Car Stereo with Pin Jacks Connection

Installation Guide

Pre-Installation Steps

Lists necessary tools and the crucial step of disconnecting the negative battery terminal.

Installation Cautions & Examples

Warns about unit placement and shows recommended vs. not recommended installation positions.

Important Information

Precautions for Use

Lists essential precautions for proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Technical Specifications

Provides detailed technical specifications of the graphic equalizer amplifier.

Summary

Features and Operation

System Configurations

Describes 2-way high-power systems, fader control for front/rear volume, and input selector options.

7-Band Equalizer Control

Details the 7 frequency bands (60Hz-10kHz) for precise audio adjustment to match car acoustics.

Control Panel Functions

Explains the DEFEAT, Fader, and Equalizer controls for sound adjustment and operation.

Connecting the Unit

Pre-Connection Checks

Advises on correct selector settings and test connections to prevent unit damage.

Input and Speaker Mode Setup

Details setting Input (COMPO, BOOSTER, PIN JACK) and Speaker Mode (4SP, 2SP) selectors.

Speaker Connections

4-Speaker System Wiring

Illustrates the wiring diagram for connecting four speakers to the unit.

2-Speaker System Wiring

Illustrates the wiring diagram for connecting two speakers for high-power output.

Component Car Stereo Connection

Car Stereo with Pin Jacks Connection

Installation Guide

Pre-Installation Steps

Lists necessary tools and the crucial step of disconnecting the negative battery terminal.

Installation Cautions & Examples

Warns about unit placement and shows recommended vs. not recommended installation positions.

Important Information

Precautions for Use

Lists essential precautions for proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Technical Specifications

Provides detailed technical specifications of the graphic equalizer amplifier.

The Pioneer BP-540 is a graphic equalizer/amplifier designed for car stereo systems, offering enhanced sound control and amplification capabilities.

Function Description:

The BP-540 serves as both a graphic equalizer and an amplifier. As a graphic equalizer, it allows users to precisely adjust the sound frequencies to match their car's acoustic characteristics and personal preferences. It features a 7-band level control, enabling adjustments at specific frequencies: 60Hz, 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 3.5kHz, and 10kHz. This granular control provides a higher quality sound adjustment than typical tone controls. The unit also includes an "Equalizer Switch (DEFEAT)" which, when pressed, activates the equalizer control function and illuminates an indicator on the equalizer control lever.

As an amplifier, the BP-540 supports both 2-speaker and 4-speaker, 2-way high-power systems. In a 4-speaker configuration, it allows for front and rear volume adjustment via a fader control, creating a "concert hall presence." The fader control's indicator lights up when active. For 2-speaker high-power systems, it utilizes the BPTL (Balanced Power Transfer Link) method to deliver a powerful 20W + 20W output.

The device is equipped with a three-input selector, allowing connection to various car stereo systems:

COMPO: For connecting with a component car stereo.
BOOSTER: For connecting with a regular car stereo.
PIN JACK: For connecting with a car stereo equipped with pin jacks.

A "Speaker Mode Selector" (4SP for 4-speaker system, 2SP for 2-speaker high-power system) must be set correctly before connection to prevent damage.

Important Technical Specifications:

Power source: 14.4V DC (10.8-15.6V allowable)
Grounding system: Negative type
Max. current consumption: 4A
Dimensions: 150(W) × 35(H) × 163(D)mm [5-3/8(W) × 1-3/8(H) × 6-3/8(D)in.]
Weight: 0.9kg (2.0lbs.)
Continuous power output (2 speaker): 12W per channel min. into 4 ohms, both channels driven 50 to 15,000Hz with no more than 5% THD.
Continuous power output (4 speaker): 3.2W per channel min. into 4 ohms, both channels driven 50 to 15,000Hz with no more than 5% THD.
Maximum power output (2 speaker): 20W × 2
Maximum power output (4 speaker): 6.5W × 4
Load impedance (2 speaker): 4Ω (4-8Ω allowable)
Load impedance (4 speaker): 4Ω (2-8Ω allowable)
Frequency response: 20-30,000Hz (±3dB)
Signal-to-noise ratio: 90dB (IHF-A network, at 1W)
Distortion: 0.5% (at 1.5W, 1kHz)
Input level:
- COMPO: 70mV/22kΩ
- LINE IN: 200mV/15kΩ
- BOOSTER: 3V/120Ω
Equalization frequency: 60Hz, 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 3.5kHz, 10kHz
Gain: 0dB
Equalization range: ±11dB

Speakers connected to this unit must be high-power type with over 20W maximum input power and have an impedance between 4 and 8 ohms. Using speakers outside these specifications can cause damage. A special BPTL circuit ensures that speakers are not directly connected to ground and that left and right speaker (-) leads are not joined.

Usage Features:

7 Band Level Control: Allows precise adjustment of sound frequencies (60Hz, 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 3.5kHz, 10kHz) to customize the audio output to the car's acoustics and user preference. Each equalizer control slides up and down, with an indicator illuminating when the equalizer switch is pressed.
Equalizer Switch (DEFEAT): Activates or deactivates the equalizer function. When active, an indicator on the lever illuminates.
Fader Control: In a 4-speaker system, this lever adjusts the balance between front and rear speaker volume. Raising the lever decreases rear speaker volume, while lowering it decreases front speaker volume. The fader control only functions in a 4-speaker system, and its indicator lights up when in use.
Three Input Selector: Provides flexibility in connecting to different car stereo types (component, regular, or pin jack equipped).
2-Way High-Power System: Supports both 2-speaker (20W+20W BPTL output) and 4-speaker (6.5W+6.5W+6.5W+6.5W output) configurations.

Maintenance Features:

Fuse Replacement: Fuses should only be replaced with the types stipulated on the fuse holder.
Heat Sink Cleaning: Dust the heat sinks occasionally to prevent clogging, which can affect performance.
Temperature Control: To ensure proper operation, maintain the vehicle's interior temperature within a normal range using the air conditioner or heater.
Battery Overdischarge Prevention: Be mindful of battery overdischarge, which can occur from prolonged operation at high sound levels when the engine is off or idling.
Installation Precautions:
- Use only supplied parts for secure installation to prevent loosening or damage.
- Install the unit in a location that does not obstruct the driver and poses no injury risk to passengers during sudden stops.
- Consult a dealer before drilling any holes in the car.
- When installed with a separately sold car stereo, this unit (BP-540) should always be positioned on top to prevent heat generated by the amplifier from damaging cassette tapes in the stereo below.
- Before installation, disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent shorts.
- Ensure all components are test-connected and operating correctly before final securing.
- Connect only a single component as shown in the diagram to avoid internal circuit damage.
- Do not remove the cap on the red lead (female plug) when not in use to prevent shorting.
- Route connecting cords away from high-temperature areas like the heater exhaust port.
- Properly connect the main power supply cable (red) and all color-coded leads to ensure correct operation and prevent malfunctions.

The serial number is located on the bottom of the unit and should be recorded on the warranty card for security and convenience. In case of trouble, users are advised to contact their dealer or the nearest authorized Pioneer Service Station.