This document describes the USW-80L 8" Powered Subwoofer, a compact audio device designed to enhance bass frequencies in a vehicle's sound system. The subwoofer features an integrated amplifier and a distinctive blue LED lighting effect.
Function Description
The USW-80L is an active subwoofer, meaning it has a built-in amplifier, eliminating the need for a separate external amplifier. Its primary function is to reproduce low-frequency sounds (bass) to complement existing car audio systems, providing a fuller and more impactful sound experience. The device can accept both low-level (RCA) and high-level (speaker level) audio inputs, offering flexibility for integration with various head units.
A key feature is its LED lighting system, which can operate in a constant light mode or dynamically change color and flash in sync with the music. This adds a visual element to the audio experience.
Important Technical Specifications
- Model: USW-80L (also referred to as PUB-8L in specifications)
- Subwoofer Size: 8-inch, 4-ohm
- RMS Power: 100W
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 150Hz
- Low Pass Filter (LPF): Adjustable from 50Hz - 150Hz. This filter allows users to define the upper frequency limit the subwoofer will reproduce, ensuring it only handles bass frequencies.
- Subsonic Filter: 20Hz. This filter helps protect the subwoofer by removing extremely low frequencies that are often inaudible and can cause damage.
- Bass Boost: Adjustable from 0 to +12dB. This feature allows users to enhance the sound level in the bass frequencies.
- Input Sensitivity (High Level): 0.9V. This is for connecting directly to speaker outputs from a head unit.
- Input Sensitivity (Low Level): 300mV. This is for connecting to RCA outputs from a head unit or signal processor.
- THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): <0.4%. A low THD indicates high audio fidelity.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB. A high signal-to-noise ratio indicates a cleaner audio signal with less background noise.
- Fuse Rating: 25A. This fuse protects the amplifier from overcurrent conditions.
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 345mm x 260mm x 68mm. Its slim profile makes it suitable for under-seat or trunk installations.
Usage Features
The USW-80L offers several controls and input options for tailored audio performance:
- Power/Status LED (A): A bi-color LED that glows green for normal operation and red if a protection circuit is activated.
- Phase Shift (B): A switch (0°/180°) to compensate for time alignment issues, ensuring the subwoofer's output is in phase with other speakers.
- Flash Lighting (C): A switch to control the LED lights. It can be set to constant light or music-reactive mode.
- Low Pass Filter (D): A variable control (50Hz-150Hz) to set the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer.
- Bass Boost (E): A variable control (0-12dB) to increase bass intensity.
- Input Gain Control (F): Used to match the subwoofer's input sensitivity with the head unit's output level. It should be set carefully to avoid distortion.
- Remote Level Control Port (G): Allows connection of an included wired remote control for independent volume adjustment of the subwoofer from the driver's seat.
- High Level (Speaker Level) Inputs (H): Used when the head unit lacks RCA outputs. A supplied cable and wire harness connect directly to the speaker outputs.
- Low Level RCA Inputs (I): The recommended input method for best audio performance when RCA outputs are available from the head unit or signal processor.
- Fuse (J): A 25A fuse for protection. It's crucial to use only the specified fuse value.
- Power Input Terminal (K): For connecting the main power, ground, and remote turn-on wires.
Installation and Wiring:
- Low Level Input Wiring (Fig.1): Connect RCA cables from the head unit's audio outputs to the subwoofer's RCA inputs. High-quality RCA cables are recommended, with lengths typically ranging from 6-12 feet for under-seat installations to 15-20 feet for trunk installations.
- High Level Input Wiring (Fig.2): If RCA outputs are not available, connect the head unit's speaker outputs to the subwoofer's high-level inputs using the supplied harness. Proper polarity must be observed.
- Power Connections (Fig.3 & Fig.4):
- Ground: Connect an 8-gauge (or heavier) wire from the subwoofer's ground terminal to a clean, unpainted metal point on the vehicle's chassis. Keep this wire under 39 inches (100 cm).
- Remote Turn-On: Connect a 16-gauge (or heavier) wire from the subwoofer's remote terminal to the head unit's remote output. The manual shows two options for the AUTO TURN ON switch:
- ON position (Fig.3): The subwoofer turns on automatically when an audio signal is detected, without needing a separate remote turn-on wire from the head unit.
- OFF position (Fig.4): Requires a remote turn-on wire from the head unit to activate the subwoofer.
- +12V Power: Run an 8-gauge (or heavier) cable from an empty fuse holder (located within 18 inches/45 cm of the car battery) to the subwoofer's +12V connection.
Maintenance Features
- Fuse Replacement: The device uses a 25A fuse. If the fuse blows, it must be replaced with a fuse of the exact same value. Never use a fuse with a different value or bypass it with a wire or coin, as this can lead to severe damage or fire.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting section to address common issues such as:
- Amplifier not powering up: Check ground connection, remote input voltage, battery power, and fuse.
- Protection LED on: Check for short circuits on speaker leads, reduce head unit volume, and reset the amplifier.
- No output: Check all fuses, ground connection, remote input, RCA cable connections, and speaker wiring.
- Low output: Reset level control and check crossover settings.
- High hiss/squealing noise: Disconnect RCA inputs to identify the source, check RCA interconnects, and ensure proper input level settings.
- Distorted sound: Adjust input level control, check crossover frequencies, and inspect speaker leads for shorts.
- Amplifier getting very hot: Ensure minimum speaker impedance is met, and there is adequate air circulation. An external cooling fan may be necessary in some cases.
- Engine noise (static/alternator whine): Use high-quality RCA cables routed away from power cables, ensure RCA grounds are not shorted to the chassis, and verify the head unit is properly grounded.
- Limited 90-Day Consumer Warranty: Applies if the unit is installed by anyone other than a Power Acoustik authorized retailer.
- Limited One-Year Consumer Warranty: Applies if the unit is purchased and installed by a Power Acoustik authorized retailer. This warranty covers defects in workmanship or material under normal use.
- Warranty Exclusions: The warranty does not cover damage from accidents, unreasonable use, neglect, improper service, modifications, external noise, speaker damage, cosmetic damage, environmental causes (floods, fire, etc.), theft, or damage due to improper connection or tampering. Thermally damaged voice coils due to abuse are also not covered.
- Claim Process: For warranty service, the unit must be returned to Power Acoustik, postage pre-paid, with proof of purchase and installation (if applicable), and contact information. An RMA (Return Authorization Number) is required prior to shipping.
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