The Sound Storm Laboratories EVOLUTION series introduces two new high-power car audio amplifier models, the EV2.200 (2-channel) and the EV4.400 (4-channel), both designed in the USA. These amplifiers are engineered to deliver a high level of performance and quality, ensuring years of listening pleasure for car audio enthusiasts.
Function Description:
The EVOLUTION amplifiers are designed to boost the audio signal from your car's head unit or signal processor, driving speakers with increased power and clarity. The EV2.200 is a 2-channel amplifier, suitable for powering a pair of speakers or a single subwoofer in bridged mode. The EV4.400 is a 4-channel amplifier, offering more flexibility for multi-speaker setups, such as powering front and rear speakers, or a combination of speakers and subwoofers.
Both models feature built-in fixed crossovers to optimize sound delivery to your speakers. The EV2.200 includes a fixed low-pass crossover set at 120Hz, ideal for subwoofer applications. The EV4.400 provides a fixed low-pass crossover at 120Hz for channels 3/4, and a fixed high-pass crossover at 200Hz for channels 1/2. This allows for precise frequency distribution, ensuring that each speaker receives the appropriate range of sound, which helps prevent distortion and improves overall audio quality.
The amplifiers are designed for 2 Ohm stable stereo operation, meaning they can efficiently handle speaker loads down to 2 Ohms. This capability allows for greater flexibility in speaker configurations, such as connecting multiple 8 Ohm speakers per channel using parallel wiring, which can significantly increase output power. Operating at 2 Ohms can boost the amplifier's output power by approximately 50%, although it also increases current draw, so adequate current supply is crucial to avoid distorted music reproduction.
Usage Features:
The EVOLUTION amplifiers offer versatile input options, featuring both high-level and RCA low-level inputs on the front panel. Low-level (RCA) input wiring is preferred for optimal audio performance, and users are advised to use high-quality RCA cables. High-level inputs should only be utilized when the head unit lacks RCA outputs. It is crucial not to connect both high-level and low-level inputs from the receiver to the amplifier simultaneously to prevent damage and ensure proper operation.
Input level can be precisely controlled by variable input gain controls. These controls are designed to match the output level of your audio source to the input level of the amplifier, not to act as a volume control. It is recommended to set the input level as low as possible while still achieving the desired output, to prevent input overload and excessive audio distortion, which could also trigger the protection circuit.
The amplifiers incorporate a remote turn-on/turn-off circuit, allowing them to power on and off in sync with your head unit, simplifying system integration. LED power and protection indicators provide visual feedback on the amplifier's status, alerting users to potential issues such as short circuits or overheating.
Maintenance Features:
The EVOLUTION amplifiers are built with several features to ensure reliability and ease of maintenance. They include thermal and speaker short protection, which safeguard the amplifier and connected speakers from damage due to excessive heat or electrical shorts. A soft turn-on circuit prevents abrupt power surges when the amplifier is activated, extending its lifespan and protecting other audio components.
The black anodized heatsink efficiently dissipates heat, contributing to stable operation and preventing thermal overload. In some applications, if the amplifier consistently runs very hot, adding an external cooling fan may be necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
For troubleshooting, the manual provides comprehensive guidance on common issues such as the amplifier not powering up, the protection LED coming on, no output, low output, audio present in only one channel, high hiss, squealing noise, distorted sound, the amplifier getting very hot, and engine noise (static or alternator whine). These tips help users identify and resolve problems by checking connections, fuse status, ground connections, input levels, crossover settings, and speaker wiring.
In case of a blown power fuse, it is critical to replace it only with a fuse identical to that supplied with the amplifier. Using a fuse of a different type or rating can lead to damage to the audio system or the amplifier, which would not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Users are strongly advised against opening the case of the product or attempting repairs themselves, as dangerous high voltages are present within the unit, and there are no user-serviceable parts. All repairs should be referred to a qualified service technician. Additionally, to prevent electronic shock or damage, the amplifier should not be exposed to dampness or wetness from water or drinks. If such an incident occurs, the power wires should be immediately unplugged, and the amplifier sent to a local dealer or service center. Similarly, if smoke or a peculiar odor is detected, or if there is damage to any component enclosures, the power cord should be unplugged immediately, and the amplifier serviced.