XETEC Gravity MK2 5G-900 - User Manual

The XETEC GRAVITY MK2 SERIES 5G-900 is a state-of-the-art 5-channel car audio amplifier, meticulously engineered for top-quality speaker systems and subwoofers. This innovative and professional high-end product is designed to deliver exceptional music enjoyment for many years, combining advanced electronics with a modern product design that remains ahead of its time. XETEC's extensive experience, supported by car audio magazines and professional installers, is reflected in every aspect of its design.

Function Description:

The 5G-900 serves as the central amplification unit for a car audio system, providing power to both satellite speakers and subwoofers. Its 5-channel configuration allows for versatile system setups. The four satellite channels can be operated in bridged mode, effectively more than doubling the output power to drive mid-bass speakers or high-power component systems. The amplifier is designed to optimize sound quality by compensating for the vehicle's acoustical problems through an optional carEQ module, which contains up to 10 independent equalizer bands for front and rear channels.

Important Technical Specifications (XETEC 5G-900 MK2):

• RMS Output power @ 4 Ohms: 4x100 W
• RMS Output power @ 4 Ohms (bridged mode): 2x200 W
• RMS Output power @ 2 Ohms: 4x130 W
• Peak output power: 1200 W total
• Max input Current (@ 13,8 V): 85 A
• Idle current (no signal): 1.4 A
• Max Current (@ 13,8 V): 100 A
• Fuse: 2x40 A
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.02%
• SNR: >92 dB(A)
• Freq. Response (bypass mode): 5 Hz-30,000 Hz
• Damping Factor: >200 (50 Hz)
• Stability: >2 Ohm, (>4 Ohm in bridged mode!)
• Input Sensitivity: 250 mV-6 V
• Crossover frequencies:
  • Lowpass: 40-200 Hz
  • Highpass: 15-200 Hz
  • Subsonic: 10-50 Hz
• Ground lift: Balanced / Unbalanced input mode operation
• Subwoofer gain adjust: With Bass level controller (BLC)
• Warranty: 1 year (2 years in EU)

Usage Features:

The 5G-900 offers a wide array of features for precise system configuration and sound tuning:

• High efficiency Class D Digital subwoofer amplifier: Ensures powerful and efficient bass reproduction.
• Four HPAA (High Precision Analog Amplifier) in satellite channels: Delivers high-fidelity sound for the main speakers.
• BLC (Bass Level Controller): Allows for convenient adjustment of subwoofer gain.
• Input Select (6-, 4- or 2-channel input modes): Provides flexibility for various head unit configurations.
• Independent low- and highpass filters (bandpass possible): Enables precise frequency shaping for each channel.
• Bridgeable satellite channels: Increases power output for demanding speaker setups.
• Optional carEQ module: A car-specific parametric equalizer module (see chapter 5. "carEQ") that compensates for the vehicle's unique acoustical problems, enhancing sound quality.
• Balanced/Unbalanced input mode operation: Selector switches prevent noise induction by ground loops, offering flexibility to mitigate alternator whine and other noise.
• Adjustable controls: All controls (Level, Highpass, Lowpass, Subsonic, Parametric EQ) are accessible under the aluminum top cover, requiring a hexa screwdriver for adjustment.
• Phase shift (0°-180°): For subwoofer output, allowing optimal integration with other speakers.
• Parametric EQ: Center frequency, Q-factor (bandwidth), and gain are adjustable for fine-tuning.
• Input connections: RCA line inputs for front, rear, and subwoofer channels.
• Output connections: Speaker terminals for front, rear, and subwoofer.
• Remote terminal: For integration with the head unit's remote turn-on signal.
• Power input: +12 V and ground power input with two 40A fuses.

Maintenance Features:

• Protection circuit: Includes safeguards against overload, short-circuit, DC offset, and overheat, indicated by a RED LED on the logo/diagnostic LED.
• Diagnostic LED: A blue LED indicates normal operation, while a red LED signals protection activation, guiding troubleshooting efforts.
• Fuse protection: Equipped with two 40A fuses to protect the amplifier itself. It is crucial to install a main fuse in the +12 V wire within 12 inches of the battery's positive terminal to protect the battery and the car.
• Troubleshooting guide: The manual provides a comprehensive guide for common issues such as the power indicator LED not lighting, lighting red, distortions at medium level, and alternator whine/noise, offering solutions like checking fuses, wiring, speaker connections, and ground connections.
• Module exchange: The optional carEQ module can be replaced by removing the top cover and scale plate. It is critical to switch off the amplifier before exchanging modules to prevent damage.

Safety Precautions:

• Always disconnect the battery before making any connections.
• Install a main fuse in the +12 V wire within 12 inches of the battery's positive terminal.
• Maintain a minimum speaker impedance of 2 Ohms (4 Ohms in bridged mode).
• Do not use defective speakers or subwoofers.
• Ensure proper mounting and fixation of the amplifier to the car body.
• Avoid drilling holes without knowing what's behind the surface.
• Run signal wires away from power cables to prevent noise induction.
• Use cables of sufficient diameter for power connections.
• Always replace fuses with the same value.
• Adjust level controls to minimum before first power-on.
• Be aware that high sound pressure levels can cause hearing loss; use restraint on the volume control.