American Audio ELX Series User manual

©American Audio® - www.americanaudio.eu ELX Series User Manual Page 1
Professional Power Amplifier

©American Audio® - www.americanaudio.eu ELX Series User Manual Page 2
Please Note: All specifications and improvements to and in the design of this unit and this manual are subject to change at any time without any
prior written or published noticed.

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6122 S. Eastern Ave
Los Angeles Ca. 90040
www.americanaudio.eu

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1. TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Table of Contents....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
2. Safety Precautions ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
3. Important Precautions............................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
4. Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
4.1 Unpacking.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Installation............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
4.3 Customer Support................................................................................................................................................................................................. 11
5. Front Panel ELX Series ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
6. Rear Panel................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 14
7. Set Up....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
7.1 Inputs .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
7.2 Outputs ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
7.3 Bare Wire Connections ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
7.4 Mono Bridge Connections .................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
7.5 Stereo Connections (Using the Neutrik Speakon output connectors) ................................................................................................................. 17

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7.6 Operating Modes .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
7.7 Protection.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 21
7.8 Amplifier Features................................................................................................................................................................................................. 23
7.9 Typical Stereo Output Connections ...................................................................................................................................................................... 24
7.10 Typical Mono Bridge Setup ................................................................................................................................................................................. 25
8. ROHS –A Contribution to the Conservation of Environment ................................................................................................................................. 26
9. WEEE –Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment ........................................................................................................................................... 27
10. ELX Series Specs ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28

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2. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of non-insulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that
may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the product.
CAUTION!
Risk of the electrical shock - DO NOT OPEN!
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not remove cover.
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
WARNING!
To prevent electrical shock or fire hazard, do not expose this amplifier to rain or moisture. Before using this amplifier, read the user manual for
further warnings.

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CAUTION
Do not open - Risk of Electric Shock
CAUTION!
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER.
THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER ALL SERVICE TO YOUR AUTHORIZED AMERICAN AUDIO® DEALER.
The lightning flash with an arrow triangular symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of non-insulated “dangerous voltage”
within the products enclosure, and may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.
The exclamation point triangular symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the user manual accompanying the amplifier.
FOR OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY DO NOT PRESENT THE AMPLIFIER WITH A SPEAKER LOAD OF LESS THAN 2 OHMS OR ANY
COMBINATION OF SPEAKERS THAT TOGETHER ARE LESS THAN 2 OHMS!
USING ONE SPEAKER, IT MUST BE RATED AT 4 OR MORE OHMS. USING ONE SPEAKER IN STEREO MODE THE SPEAKER MUST BE RATED AT
LEAST 2 OHMS. IF THE AMP IS IN BRIDGE MODE THEN ONE SPEAKER HAS TO BE AT LEAST 4 OHMS.
USING TWO SPEAKERS, THEY MUST RATED EACH AT 4 OR MORE OHMS.
USING THREE SPEAKERS, THEY MUST BE RATED EACH AT 8 OR MORE OHMS.

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3. IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS
To reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire, do not expose this unit rain or moisture.
Do not spill water or other liquids into or on to your unit.
Do not attempt to operate this unit if the power cord has been frayed or broken.
Do not attempt to remove or break off the ground prong from the electrical cord. This prong is used to reduce the risk of electrical shock and
fire in case of an internal short.
Disconnect main power before making any type of connection.
Do not remove the cover under any conditions. There are no user serviceable parts.
Never plug this unit in to a dimmer pack.
Always be sure to mount this unit in an area that will allow proper ventilation. Allow about 6” (15cm) between this device and a wall.
Do not attempt to operate this unit, if it becomes damaged.
This unit is intended for indoor use, use of this product out-doors voids all warranties.
During long periods of non-use, disconnect the unit’s main power.
Always mount this unit in a safe and stable manner.
Power cords should be routed so they are not likely to be walked on, pinched by items placed upon or against them.
Cleaning - The outside of the unit should be wiped down with a soft cloth and mild cleaner when needed.

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Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
The amplifier should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
oThe power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged.
oObjects have fallen on, or liquid has been spilled into the unit.
oThe appliance has been exposed to rain or water.
oThe unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.

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4. INTRODUCTION
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing this American Audio® ELX Series amplifier! This amplifier is a representation of American Audio’s
continuing commitment to produce the best and highest quality products all at an affordable price. Please read and understand this manual
completely before attempting to operate your new amplifier. This booklet contains important information concerning the proper and safe
operation of your new amplifier.
4.1 UNPACKING
Every ELX Series amplifier has been thoroughly tested and has been shipped in perfect operating condition.
Carefully check the shipping carton for damage that may have occurred during shipping. If the carton appears to be damaged, carefully inspect
your unit for any damage and be sure all accessories necessary to operate the unit has arrived intact. In the event damage has been found or parts
are missing, please contact our toll free customer support number for further instructions. Please do not return the amplifier to your dealer
without contacting customer support first.
4.2 INSTALLATION
This amplifier is designed to mount into a standard 19” rack.
The front panel provides four holes used to screw the unit into a rack. The unit also provides a way to rear mount the unit into a rack for added
security. Rear mounting the unit is especially recommended for this amplifier if the unit is mounted into a mobile rack.

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4.3 CUSTOMER SUPPORT
American Audio® provides a toll free customer support line, to provide set up help and to answer any question should you encounter problems
during your set up or initial operation. You may also visit us on the web at www.americanaudio.us for any comments or suggestions. For service
related issue please contact American Audio®.
Service Hours are Monday through Friday 08:30 to 17:00 GMT+1.
Voice: 0031 45 546 85 30
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]

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5. FRONT PANEL ELX SERIES
(1) Indicator LEDs
Channel Protect Indicator –The yellow Protect LED will begin to glow when the channel goes into Protect Mode. When the channel goes into
Protect Mode, all output for that channel will turn off. This is to protect any speakers connected to the channel.
Channel Clip Indicator –This red LED will begin to flash when channel one begins to overload (clip). At this point channel one will begin to
distort. Under heavy clipping activity lower the channel one gain control to reduce the risk of damage to your speakers and amplifier. This
LED may glow when the unit has been turned off, this is normal.
Channel Signal Indicators –These green LEDs will glow according to the average signal output.
Active Indicators –These green LEDs will glow when the amp is switched on.

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(2) Power Switch –This switch is used to control the units’main power.
NOTE: The amp must always be turned on last in an audio set up, and turned off first in an audio set up. Before powering down the Amp, turn the
gain controls to the lowest position.
(3) Channel B Gain Control –This rotary knob is used to control the output signal of channel two. Turning the knob in a clockwise direction will
increase signal output. Before powering down the Amp, turn the gain control to the lowest position.
(6) Channel A Gain Control –This rotary knob is used to control the output signal of channel one. Turning the knob in a clockwise direction will
increase signal output. This gain control is also used when the Amp is in Bridge Mode. Before powering down the Amp, turn the gain control to the
lowest position.
(7) Air Inlet –These air inlets draw in air from the outside to help cool down the amp as it is running. Do not place anything in front or obstruct
these inlets. Keep these air inlets clean for maximum air flow.

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6. REAR PANEL
(8) Channels A & B Speakon Outputs –Optional speaker output connections.
Use pins 1+ and 1- of this 4-pole Speakon connector to connect to your speakers’Speakon input jack.
(9) Channel A & B Output Jack/5 way Binding Post –Connect to your speakers’input jack.
Red is positive signal and Black is negative signal. When using Bridge Mode, use Channels A & B.
(10) AC Cord –Plug this cable into a standard wall outlet. Check that the voltage in your area matches the amplifiers required voltage.
Fuse Holder –This housing stores a 12 amp protective fuse. Never defeat the fuse, the fuse is designed to protect the electronics in the
event of severe power fluctuations. Always be sure to replace the fuse with an exact match as the one being replaced, unless otherwise told
to do so by an authorized American Audio® service technician.

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(11) Channel A & B XLR Inputs –Channel A & B 3-pin XLR balanced input jack. See chapter 7 (Set Up) for more details.
Channel A & B XLR THRU Inputs –These inputs are parallel outputs of the inputs used to link multiple amps.
(12) Ground Lift Switch –This switch allows the ground signal or chassis ground to be separated in case of a ground conflict. For the safety of the
amp, it is recommended to keep the switch in the GND FLOATING position. In case of a ground conflict please set the switch to GND LIFT.
(13) Mode Switch –This switch controls the amplifiers’operating mode. The amplifier can operate in two different modes; Mono Bridge or Stereo.
The amplifier is shipped in Stereo Mode.
(16) Air Vents –These vents allow hot air to exit the amp. Do not place anything in front or obstruct these vents.

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7. SET UP
7.1 INPUTS
The ELX Series amplifier allows you to use two types of input connector per a channel, a XLR jack
for balanced connections and a 1/4” female jack that will accept balanced and unbalanced
connectors. Use these connections to connect the output signal from a mixer, cross-over or EQ to
your XLT Series amplifier.
A balanced connection is recommended for cable runs longer that 20ft. When constructing your
own XLR cables follow the pin configuration described below for proper connections.
7.2 OUTPUTS
Binding Post –Connect your speakers to the binding post outputs on the rear of the amplifier. The speaker wire may be connected by bare wire
(directly connected, usually for permanent connections). Connections are made to Channels A and B outputs for Stereo Mode or across the red
terminals of Channels A and B for Mono Bridge Mode.
Important Notice: Although a speaker will operate with the positive and negative leads plugged into either terminal on the amplifier binding post,
be sure to plug the negative lead into the black terminal and positive lead into the red terminal. Ensuring proper polarity will avoid speakers being
out of phase that can cause a loss of bass response.
7.3 BARE WIRE CONNECTIONS
When connecting your speakers to the amplifier using bare wire:
Unscrew the red and black caps on the binding post, be sure not to completely remove or unscrew the red and black caps.

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Strip back the wire insulation 1/2” (13mm).
Insert the bare wire into the hole that was revealed by unscrewing the binding post cap. After inserting the wire into the binding post hole,
screw the binding post cap down on the wire.
Important: To reduce the risk of shock or damage to your amplifier, be sure that the wire connected to one binding post does not come in contact
with that of another.
Typical speaker output using bare wire.
Insert bare wire into the binding post and tighten.
7.4 MONO BRIDGE CONNECTIONS
Mono Bridge operation connections will follow the above descriptions however, when operating in Mono Bridge operation the speaker
connections will run between the two positive (red) leads. Use channel two positive output terminal for the negative connection and the channel
one positive output terminal for the positive connection.
7.5 STEREO CONNECTIONS (USING THE NEUTRIK SPEAKON OUTPUT CONNECTORS)
Recent regulatory requirements in Europe have outlawed the use of the dual banana plug and forced amp users to terminate their speaker cables
with spade lugs or bare wire ends. This is not advantageous to most users that want to reconfigure their systems or quickly change out an amp.

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The Neutrik Speakon® connector provides the most convenient solution to this problem, eliminating the need for spade plugs or bare wire end
cables.
Major speaker manufacturers have been using Speakon connectors on their products for years, so chances are you are ready to use the Speakon
connection. With Speakon connectors, you can connect straight from the amplifier to the speaker. The Speakon connector used on this amplifier
meets all known safety regulations. Once wired correctly, the connector cannot be plugged in backwards, causing the type of inverted polarity
situations that have become common with banana hookups.
This connection will provide a safe, secure and reliable method of connecting your speakers to your new amplifier. You can purchase the
Speakon® NL4FC connectors from your local audio dealer.
7.5.1 SPEAKON ASSEMBLY
You will need a pair of Neutrik Speakon® NL4FC connectors.
You will also need high-quality two or four conductor speaker cable, a pair of needle-nosed pliers and a 1.5-mm Allen key to assemble the
Speakon connectors to your speaker wire. To assemble the Neutrik Speakon NL4FC connector, complete the following steps:
1. Strip back 3/4-inch of the cable casing. Strip off 1/4-inch from the end of
each of the conductors down to bare wire, and insert the brass fittings.
See Figure 8.

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2. Slide the cable tension clip (D) and the Speakon coupler (E) through the
cable end.
See Figure 9.
3. Insert each wire with the brass fittings into the top of appropriate slot of the
connector insert (B) as shown in Figures 9 and 10. Use a 1.5-mm Allen key to
tighten the connection.
See Figure 10.
4. Be sure to properly match the positive (+) and negative (–) leads of each
wire.
See Figure 11.
5. Slide the connector insert (B) into the connector housing (A), making sure that the large notch on the outer edge of the insert lines up with
the large groove on the inside of the connector housing. The insert should slide easily through the housing and out the other side until it
extends approximately 3 /4-inch from the end of the housing.
6. Slide the cable tension clip (D) along the cable and insert into the housing (A), making sure that the large notch lines up with the large groove
on the inside of the connector housing (A). The cable tension clip (D) should slide easily into the housing until only 3 /8-inch of the cable
tension clip (D) extend from the back end of the connector.

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7. Slide the coupler (E) along the cable and screw it onto the end of the housing (A). Before tightening, you may want to test the connector to
make sure it has been assembled properly.
7.6 OPERATING MODES
Always configure your amplifier operating mode before beginning operation. If you want to change it during performance, you must decrease the
gain controls to their lowest levels to protect the speakers from any popping noise.
7.6.1 STEREO OPERATION
Chapter 7.9 Typical Stereo Output Connections) details an example of a typical stereo set-up.
Connect your inputs into channels one and two of the amplifier.
Connect your speakers to the outputs on the rear of the amplifier. Be sure that your front gain controls are turned down to their lowest level
(full counter-clockwise).
Turn your amp on.
Turn your input source level up. Use your front gain controls to regulate the output volume. Be sure not to raise the volume to the clip level;
however an intermittent clip signal is acceptable.
7.6.2 MONO BRIDGE OPERATION
Chapter 7.10 Typical Mono Bridge Setup details a mono bridge set-up.
Be sure your amplifier and all other audio equipment is powered down.
Flip the Stereo/Bridge switch to the Bridge position.