Atlantic Technology SA-380 User manual

Instruction Manual
InWall Subwoofer System
SA-380 THX Ultra Mono Subwoofer Amplifier
For use with Atlantic Technology IWTS-8 SUB Woofer Module Only
This manual covers installation and operation of SA-380 Mono Subwoofer
Amplifier. Installation of the IWTS-8 SUB Woofer Module is covered sepa-
rately by an instruction sheet included with the woofer.

2
InWall Subwoofer System
For Future Reference
Record your serial numbers and date of purchase here:
Model Number
Serial Number
Date of Purchase
The amplifier serial number is found on the back panel.The subwoofer
serial number is found on the back of the magnet assembly.
Table of Contents
Safety Precautions
IMPORTANT NOTE
These instructions are for Atlantic Technology InWall Subwoofer
systems using the SA-380 Mono Subwoofer amplifiers. Note that
the SA-380 amplifier is designed to work with a single 8 SUB
woofer module.
The unique design of these drivers and amplifier means that they
must only be used together, with each other. You should never
attempt to use a different amplifier with these woofers or different
woofers with this amplifier.
3 Features
3 IWTS-8 SUB Woofer Module
3 SA-380
3 Unpacking
3 THX Ultra Certified
4 InWall Subwoofer Systems
5 Amplifier Front Panel
6 Amplifier Back Panel
7 Installation and Configuration
7 Power Control Connections
7 Remote Turn-On From An External Device Using The Low
Voltage Trigger
8 SA-380 Low Level Connections -Unbalanced Input
9 Remote Turn-On Using Music Sense
9 Speaker Wire Connections
10 Audio Signal Connections
10 AC Power Connection
10 Operation
10 Bass Level Control
10 Phase
11 Caring For Your Subwoofer
11 Subwoofer Troubleshooting Guide
11 Specifications
Copyright © 2008 Atlantic Technology International.
Specifications are those in effect at the time of printing. Atlantic Technology reserves the
right to change specifications or designs at any time without notice. THX and THX Ultra
are trademarks of THX Inc. Manufactured under license from THX Ltd. THX is a trademark
of THX Ltd. which may be registered in some jurisdictions. All rights reserved.
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock,do not remove the
cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside. Refer to qualified per-
sonnel.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock,do not expose
this appliance to rain or moisture.This device generates a fair amount of
heat. Make sure nothing blocks the ventilation openings on the top and
bottom of the unit.
The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an equilat-
eral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to consti-
tute a risk of electrical shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
Safety Precautions

3
Instruction Manual
Features
Features
IWTS-8 SUB Woofer Module
■
Ultra-long-throw 8" Coated Composite Molded Graphite poly-
mer cone drivers with vented 8 pound motor structure and
1-3/4" high temperature, 4 layer voice coil
A massive magnetic motor assembly and high temperature parts
combined with a bumped out rear plate and compliant suspension
allow very long travel capability for the cone. The result is amazing
bass performance from a relatively small footprint. One of the most
powerful 8" subwoofer drivers ever designed, the motor assembly is
much more consistent with 15" woofers!
■Sealed enclosure design provides for low distortion deep bass
output
This design is inherently low in distortion and naturally delivers deep,
smooth bass response with a gradual and predictable roll-off below
resonance, ensuring accurate musical bass reproduction along with
terrific special effects.
SA-380
■Linear power high current discrete Class G amplifier conserva-
tively rated at 380 watts RMS per channel with short term peak
output ability in excess of 550 watts
The design utilizes audiophile grade component parts including a
high-current custom-wound, low-hum toroidal transformer. Class
G design means the power supply is dual mode in operation,one for
long term operation and the second for short term very high power
peaks. High peak current delivers exceptional driver control.
■Servo-control circuitry
This circuit monitors woofer performance.If the servo-control detects
driver distortion it immediately corrects it,resulting in very high out-
put levels at unusually low distortion levels.
■A useful in room working frequency range of 20 Hz to 150Hz
■Low-level balanced and unbalanced inputs
Using a balanced cable can help eliminate hum and noise pickup.
■Two position Phase Invert switch
Allows precise acoustic matching with satellite speaker systems
whose output may be phase reversed. May also help to compensate
for unusual room acoustics that can occur, causing a lack of or too
much bass at the listening position.
■A convenient front panel mounted Level Control with a click-
stop THX/REF input sensitivity setting
■Automatic standby operation with LED indicator
Features signal sensing turn-on with 7-10 minute turn-off delay; can
also be controlled by an external 12 Volt trigger.
■Heavy-Duty detachable AC power cord and input socket
■Meets all current UL/CSA and European safety requirements
Unpacking
The carton and packing materials used in shipping your new amplifier
were specially designed to cushion it from the shocks and vibration
of shipping.We strongly suggest that you save the carton and packing
materials to use if you move, or if the unit ever needs to be shipped
back to us for any reason.To minimize the size of the carton in storage,
you may wish to flatten it by carefully opening the top and bottom flaps
and folding the carton flat.Other cardboard inserts may be stored in
the same manner.Packing materials that cannot be collapsed should be
saved along with the carton in a plastic bag.
THX Ultra Certified
THX is a group of performance standards and technologies developed
by Lucasfilm Ltd.(of Star Wars fame).These are intended to ensure that
what you hear (and see) on your home system, as closely as possible,
matches what the director heard and saw during the final production
mixdown of the film. THX is intended to enhance all surround formats
including the latest discrete multi-channel digital types. Please note that
THX is not a surround format itself.
THX Ultra standards are based upon a room size of 3000 cubic feet
(LxWxH). This doesn’t mean certified components must be used in
rooms this exact size. The room sizes simply provide a frame of refer-
ence, as they indicate that these systems must deliver a minimum level
of performance in the specified area.
Please note that two dual IWTS-8 subwoofer modules and SA-380
amplifiers are required for the THX Ultra performance level.

4
InWall Subwoofer System
InWall Subwoofer Systems
Congratulations on your purchase of an Atlantic Technology InWall
Subwoofer System. This unique“invisible subwoofer”will enhance your
listening pleasure dramatically, by providing the bass foundation upon
which most music and special effects are built. In addition, its flexible
control capability brings new meaning to the terms system and room
integration, providing unheard of fine tuning capability to optimize its
performance and your enjoyment.
The InWall Subwoofer System is capable of delivering very high output
levels and wide dynamic range.When properly set up and adjusted it will
provide smooth in-room bass response down to approximately 25 Hz,
with a peak SPL capability in excess of 105dB (using two dual woofer
modules and two SA-380 amplifiers, in a 3000 cubic foot space).
SA-380 Servo Controlled Subwoofer Amplifier
BASS LEVEL PHASE
MIN MAX
REF
0180
The system consists of an in-wall enclosure (Fig. 1) designed to be
installed in your walls before the sheetrock is put up,a dual 8 inch woofer
driver assembly (Fig. 2) and a separate dedicated amplifier(Fig. 3) to
power the woofers. The combination of two subwoofer assemblies and
two SA-380's is THX Ultra certified.
Your Atlantic Technology powered subwoofer system is designed to
smoothly integrate with virtually all other brands of loudspeakers on
the market.And from its premium gold plated connectors to its superb
high-quality electrical components, this is one of the most unique high
performance subwoofers ever produced.
InWall Subwoofer Systems
Figure 1
3½"
Figure 2
Figure 3
14½"
81"

5
Instruction Manual
3-Color LED Status Indicator
The front panel LED indicator has three modes:
Amber: Indicates the SA-380 is connected to an AC power source
and the rear-panel Main Power switch is turned on. When the
indicator is amber, the unit is in the Standby mode and is ready
to turn on when a control signal is received at the trigger jack or
from the music sense circuitry.
Green: Indicates the SA-380 is on and operational.
Red: Indicates the SA-380 is in Protect mode. Turn the unit off
and check for the source of the condition that caused the overload.
This may be a shorted speaker lead or other similar condition.In
the event of repeated appearance of the red LED you may have a
chronic system failure with either the SA-380 or another compo-
nent in your system. In this case disconnect the SA-380 from AC
power and the rest of your system and consult Atlantic Technolo-
gies Customer Service Department for assistance.
12
3
Amplifier Front Panel
SA-380 Servo Controlled Subwoofer Amplifier
BASS LEVEL PHASE
MIN MAX
REF
0180
Amplifier Front Panel
Figure 4
1 2 3
BASS LEVEL control
Sets the volume level of the connected subwoofer.A detent setting
is provided for THX/REF operation.
PHASE control
Sets correct subwoofer phase (0° or 180°) to best match your sat-
ellite speakers and room.

6
InWall Subwoofer System
Amplifier Back Panel
Balanced Input jack
Connect this jack to the output of a source equipped with balanced
outputs.This is a professional-style connection that carries the plus
and minus audio signal separately from the ground signal. This
arrangement automatically cancels out any noise that enters the
cable connecting the source to the SA-380.
Unbalanced Input jack
Connect this jack to the output of the source used to feed the
SA-380.
NOTE: When connecting a source to the Model SA-380, use either the
balanced or unbalanced connector, but not both. Also, remember that
if the Trigger Mode switch is turned to Music, the Model SA-380 will
turn on whenever an audio source is present at either jack.
Trigger Input Jack
Connect this jack to the trigger output jack of a compatible product
such as an audio processor or receiver that is capable of provid-
ing a 6-volt to 35-volt control signal at turn-on.When the Trigger
Mode switch is set to the 12 Volt position,the Model SA-380 will
turn on when the control signal is present. Tip of plug is positive.
See page 9 for more details.
Trigger Output Jack
When more than one Model SA-380 is used in an system, this
jack may be used to pass the low voltage control signal through
to the Trigger Input Jack of an additional SA-380. (See pg 9 for
more details)
NOTE: Connecting more than two SA-380 to a single source control-
ler may overload the system and is not recommended. If you wish to
automatically turn on more than two Model SA-380 units, we recom-
mend the use of either the music sense circuitry or an externally pow-
ered relay controller. Contact Atlantic Technology Customer Service for
more information on using the Model SA-380 in multiple unit systems
to avoid damage to your processor, receiver or controller.
Trigger Mode Switch
This three-position switch determines the method by which the
SA-380 will be placed in the active, or ON,position:
• Whentheswitchisinthefarleftposition,undertheword“ON,”
the unit will be turned on whenever the Main Power Switch is
turned on.
Amplifier Back Panel
1
4
5
3
2
6
7
8
9
10
•Whentheswitchisinthemiddleposition,undertheword
“MUSIC,”the unit will automatically turn on when an audio sig-
nal is present at the Input Jacks.The unit will automatically turn
off when the signal is no longer present for 5-10 minutes.
• Whentheswitchisinthefarrightposition,underthe“12V”
indication,the unit will automatically turn on when a 6-volt to
35-volt signal is applied to the Trigger Input Jack.The unit will
turn off shortly after that signal is removed.
Speaker Output Jacks
These jacks provide the amplified signal for connection to your
subwoofer module.
Input Voltage Switch
This switch selects the power AC input voltage for the SA-380,
depending on the AC power system used in your area.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not make any change to this switch setting
unless the ac power cord is removed from the unit so that the amplifier
is totally disconnected from any AC power source.
AC Power Switch
Turn this switch to the ON position to operate the SA-380.
Fuse
This fuse is used to protect the power supply only and is NOT part
of the speaker protection circuitry.If you suspect that the fuse has
blown, first disconnect the SA-380 from the AC power source by
removing the power cord, and then correct the condition that led
to the blown fuse.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The replacement fuse should have the proper
rating for the voltage setting in use and must be of the correct type.
Consult the data printed on the amplifier’s rear panel for fuse informa-
tion.
If the fuse blows repeatedly, discontinue use of the product and
contact Atlantic Technology Customer Service for further assis-
tance.
AC Power Cord Receptacle
Connect the AC power cord supplied with the unit to this recep-
tacle,and connect the power cord plug to an AC outlet.
IMPORTANT NOTE: A replacement power cord's rating must be
equal to or better than the cord supplied with the unit.
Figure 5
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCETO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PASOUVRIR
1 2 3 4 65 7 8 9 10

7
Instruction Manual
Installation and Configuration
SAFETY NOTE: When making connections between any source
components such as A/V Receivers, surround processors or multi-
room controllers and the Model SA-380, or when making any con-
nections to speakers, be certain that both the source device and
the Model SA-380 are turned off. To ensure that there will be no
unwanted signal transients that can damage equipment or speak-
ers, it is always best to unplug all equipment before making any
connections. Modern electronic products often have a “standby”
mode that may be unintentionally activated even though they
product may appear to be turned off.
Power Control Connections
The Model SA-380 features a built-in remote turn on system that will
automatically turn on the amplifier in one of two ways. Depending on
your specific application,the unit may also be turned on manually using
the Rear Panel AC Power Switch, or automatically via sensing of either
an input source or a low voltage trigger signal.For manual operation,no
special installation is required.
For automatic turn-on, follow the instructions below for the chosen
method.
Remote Turn-On From An External Device Using
The Low Voltage Trigger
To configure the Model SA-380 so that it turns on
automatically in response to a low voltage trigger
signal, follow these steps:
1. Place the Trigger Mode Switch in the far right position, so
that the switch is under the words “12V”.
2. To trigger the amplifier from a device such as a surround
processor, A/V Receiver or multi-room controller with a
built-in trigger jack, connect one end of a cable with a
3.5mm mono mini-plug to the Trigger Input Jack on the
Model SA-380. Connect the other end to a matching jack
on the device that will be provide a 6 to 35 volt signal
when the unit is to be turned on.
3. If the source controller does not have a trigger jack, you
may use the music sense option to automatically turn
on the Model SA-380, however, you may also use the
trigger switch if the source controller has a switched AC
Accessory outlet. If that is the configuration you wish
to use, purchase a small AC to DC power converter,
as typically used to replace the batteries in portable
electronics devices. Select a model that is capable of
delivering 6 to 35 volts DC, and make certain that one
of the “tips” provided with the unit is a 3.5mm mini-
plug. Plug the transformer end of the converter into the
switched AC output on the source product, and connect
the 3.5mm mini-plug to the Trigger Input Jack. The tip of
the plug is positive.
4. Set the Power Switch to the on position.
When the source control unit providing the power is turned on,the Model
SA-380 will automatically turn on.When the source unit is turned off,
the Model SA-380 will return to the standby mode.
Installation and Configuration
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

8
InWall Subwoofer System
Connections
SA-380 Low Level Connections - Unbalanced Input
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAMETYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V,USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USET2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+
-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS ATRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING:TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THISAPPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS:RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
+ –
+ –
Sub Out/LFE
IWTS-30 SR IWTS-30 SR
Figure 8

9
Instruction Manual
Installation and Configuration
Remote Turn-On Using Music Sense
To configure the Model SA-380 so that it will automati-
cally turn on when the amplifier is receiving an audio
signal, follow these steps:
■Connect the audio input as normal to either the
Balanced Input Jack or Unbalanced Input Jack .
■Turn the Trigger Mode Switch so that it is in the
center position under the word“Music.”
■Make sure the AC Power Switch is turned on.The front panel LED
will turn amber, indicating that the unit is in the Standby mode,
awaiting a signal that will activate the operational mode.
In this configuration, the Model SA-380 will automatically turn on
whenever it is receiving an audio input signal.The unit will return to the
standby mode a few minutes after the audio signal stops.
Speaker Wire Connections
It is always best to connect the ampli-
fier to your speakers using high quality
cable. The Model SA-380 is equipped
with five-way binding post terminals
that accept bare wire, spade lugs or
banana type plugs (when permitted
by local safety agencies).To assure that
the high quality signals produced by your Model SA-380 are carried to
your speakers without loss of clarity or resolution, we recommend that
you use high quality speaker cable.Many brands of cables are available,
your choice may be influenced by a number of factors; i.e.: the distance
between your speakers and the amplifier; the type of speakers you use;
personal preferences; and other factors.
Regardless of the brand or type of cable selected,we recommend using
a cable constructed of fine, multi-strand copper with a gauge of 14 or
larger.Remember,that in specifying cable,the lower the number,the
thicker the cable.Cables with a gauge of 16 may be used for short runs
of less than ten feet.We do not recommend that you use any cables with
an AWG equivalent of 18 or higher due to the power loss and degrada-
tion in performance that will occur.
Cables that are run inside walls should have the appropriate markings
to indicate listing with,and approval by,UL,CSA or other testing agency.
Questions about cables inside walls should be referred to a qualified
installer or a licensed electrical contractor who is familiar with the NEC
and/or the applicable local building codes in your area.
As a general rule,always avoid running input signal or speaker wire con-
nections in parallel with each other, or with AC power cords. This can
result in undesired hum or other interference that will greatly degrade
signal performance.
The terminals of the SA-380 are designed to allow the use of heavy
speaker wire or connectors. Be sure to tighten them securely, but don’t
over-tighten them.
WARNING: To prevent risk of electrical shock or damage to your equipment, always switch
off the amplifiers when making any system connections.
You can connect your subwoofer to the SA-380 by using a variety of audio
connectors such as banana plugs (single or double), pin connectors,
spade lugs,etc; or you may simply use the bared wire itself:
1. Remove ½” of insulation from each wire end.
2. Twist the strands of each of the wires together, keeping
the two wires separate.
3. Place the appropriate wire through the hole in the
appropriate connector. This hole is revealed when you
loosen the connector’s knob.
4. Screw down the knob firmly to clamp the wire, but be
careful not to over tighten it.
5. Check the tightness of these knobs 24 hours after hookup
and occasionally after that, as they can loosen over
time.
When using any wire connector,follow the manufacturer's assembly and
usage instructions.We recommend that you check your local electrical
codes to make sure that you are not using improper connectors (for
example, "banana" plugs are not allowed in some areas).
It’s important to observe polarity while making speaker connections:
red (+) terminal on the amplifier to red (+) on the speaker,black (–) on
the amplifier to black (–) on the speaker. Look carefully at the wire you
are using and note that one of the conductors of the pair will typically
be identified by color, printing on the outer jacket, ridges on the outer
jacket, or a thread intertwined with the wire strands. By convention,the
marked wire is connected to the red (+) terminal.
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

10
InWall Subwoofer System
Operation
Audio Signal Connections
Connections with RCA type plugs:
When making connections with the“RCA”type plugs
on interconnect cables, make certain to gently, but
firmly insert them into the jack marked Unbalanced
Input on the back of the Model SA-380. Loose con-
nections can cause intermittent sound and may damage your speakers.
The barrel assembly of some high quality RCA plugs may be very tight,
and it is important to ensure a proper connection between the intercon-
nect cable and the input jack.
Connections with XLR (Balanced) audio type plugs:
When making connections with “XLR” type
plugs on balanced interconnect cables, make
certain to gently, but firmly insert them into
the jacks marked Balanced Input on the back
of the Model SA-380. Loose connections can
cause intermittent sound and may damage
your speakers.
When releasing an XLR connector from an
input jack,press the“plate”style tab on the input jack and pull the inter-
connect straight out.When releasing an XLR connector from an output
jack,press the“button”on the XLR connector's body and pull the inter-
connect straight out.
NOTE: Unlike “coaxial” style RCA cables, twisting the XLR connec-
tor will damage the cable and/or input jack on your amplifier.
AC Power Connection
The final step in the installation of the
Model SA-380 is to connect the power
cord.First,connect the female end of the
cord into theAC Power Receptacle on the
rear panel. Once the cord as been firmly
connected to the SA-380, insert the plug
end into an AC power outlet.
Safety Notes
■Due to the current draw of the Model SA-380,DO NOT connect the
power cord to the accessory outlet of an audio/video component.
■Shouldthepowercordbecomelostordamaged,becertaintoreplace
it with a cord that meets or exceeds the original specifications. Use
of power cords with insufficient capacity, such as those used with
computers or office equipment,may create a safety hazard.
Operation
Operation of the Model SA-380 is simple. In normal use there are no
controls other than LEVEL and PHASE to adjust once the installation is
complete.After all connections have been made to the amplifier’s inputs
and speaker terminals, and the AC power cord has been connected,the
way in which the unit turns on is determined by the setting of the Trig-
ger Mode Switch.Depending on the setting, as described on page 7, the
amplifier will turn on in one of these three ways:
■When the Trigger Mode Switch is set to the left,in the“On”position,
the Model SA-380 will turn on when theAC Power Switch is turned
on. Use the AC Power Switch to turn the Model SA-380 off when
you're finished listening.
■When the Trigger Mode Switch is set in the center, in the “Music”
position, the AC Power Switch should be turned ON to place the
ModelSA-380intheStandbyMode.Theunitwillautomaticallyturn
on whenever an audio signal is present. The unit will return to the
Standby mode a few minutes after the audio signal is removed.
■When the Trigger Mode Switch is set to the right,in the“12V”posi-
tion,the AC Power Switch should be turned ON to place the Model
SA-380 in the Standby Mode. The unit will automatically turn on
when a low voltage trigger signal is present at the Trigger Jack and
return to the Standby Mode when the trigger signal is removed.
As a general rule,it is always a good idea to turn on your amplifier LAST.
This avoids the possibility of any turn on-pops or transients from other
equipment being amplified and sent to your speakers where they may
cause damage.
Always start with a low volume level on your receiver, controller or pre-
amp to avoid damage to your speakers.
SAFETY NOTE: To prevent unintended operation, remember
to turn the unit completely off when it will not be used for an
extended period of time. This is done by turning the AC Power
Switch OFF and noting that the front panel LED indicator goes off.
This will prevent the automatic turn-on circuits from accidentally
turning the amplifier on during your absence.
Bass Level Control
In most installations, this is set to the "REF"
position , and the subwoofer's level is con-
trolled via the preamp/processor's subwoofer
level function.This front-panel control is used
when the preamp/processor has no such
capability, or when the desired setting is out-
side the available range of the receiver's control.
Phase
The correct setting of this control is that which
provides the smoothest transition between the
subwoofer and the rest of the system. Try both
positions,and use the one which sounds best;in
most systems,0° is preferred.
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
115V
115V 60Hz / 230V 50Hz
AC INPUT 600W MAX
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
HAZARD, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 250V FUSE
FOR 115V, USE T5AL 250V FUSE
FOR 230V, USE T2.5AL 250V FUSE
POWER
INPUT
VOLTAGE
OFFON
FUSE
OUTPUT12V TRIGGER TRIGGER
MODE
IN OUT
MUSIC
ON 12V
INPUT
BALANCED UNBALANCED
+-
MANUFACTURED UNDER LICENSE FROM THX LTD.
THX IS A TRADEMARK OF THX LTD, WHICH MAY BE REGIS-
TERED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
SA-380 Servo Controlled Subwoofer Amplifier
BASS LEVEL PHASE
MIN MAX
REF
0180
SA-380 Servo Controlled Subwoofer Amplifier
BASS LEVEL PHASE
MIN MAX
REF
0180

11
Instruction Manual
Specifications
Caring For Your Subwoofer
IMPORTANT: Save Your Boxes! If you can do so, save the carton,
packing pieces and plastic bags that came with your subwoofer.
They will be useful in case you move or have to ship your subwoofer
for any reason. In any case, save all packing materials until you are
certain that the system has suffered no damage in shipment. If you find
such damage,either visible or internal, contact your dealer immediately
for the proper return procedure.
Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution
No bass output AC power cord unplugged or Plug into a working outlet.
plugged into a non-working outlet.
Input cables not securely Check all connections, then try another
connected or defective. input cable.
Audible buzz or hum Input cable not securely connected Check all connections, then try another
or defective. input cable.
Ground loop through antenna or Test by disconnecting antenna and/or cable
cable TV system input. system input leads. If hum goes away, install
isolation balun(s) at that point.
Weak bass: vague stereo image; Acoustic phase of subwoofer(s) doesn't Check speaker wire connections and/or
especially when using dual sub/amp setup match rest of system. phase switch settings.
Specifications
RMS Power (before limiting and servo) 380 W @ 4 Ohms, <.025%THD
Signal to Noise Ratio (-90dB hum) -97dB @ full power
Frequency Response (typical, in room) 20-150 Hz ±3 dB
Low Level Input Sensitivity 250mv @ full output, 100Hz
Low Level Input Impedance 15K Ω
Power Supply Storage 22K microfarads
Toroidal Transformer 400VA
Peak Output Stage Current 40amps rated
Dimensions W x H x D 17" x 1.5" x 11.5" (430 x 40 x 330mm)
Weight (lbs) 18lbs. (8.2kg)
Subwoofer Troubleshooting Guide
Once your subwoofer is set up, you should have many years of mainte-
nance free enjoyment from your system.However,if you should encoun-
ter a problem,referto the following guide to help find the solution.If the
problem persists,please contact your local authorized Atlantic Technol-
ogy dealer.

010-1780
343 Vanderbilt Avenue Norwood, MA 02062 [phone] www.atlantictechnology.com