AudioBahn A12001DT User manual

CLASS D AMPLIFIERS
A18001DT A12001DT A8001DT
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
PLEASE RETAIN MANUAL FOR FUTURE USE AND REFERENCE
QUALITY, RELIABILITY, & PURE BLISS

The Audiobahn Way
To bring the product to market that excites the consumer through
sound and vision from an orientation of integrity and customer service. We
make you look as good as you sound. We strive to take car audio to an
extreme the world has never seen, and a world that never stops evolving.
Audiobahn was established in 1997 with one long-term goal in mind,
"Build it Bigger, Badder, & Better, and the people will take notice!" We
back this statement with an engineering team that has brought home several
Innovations, Design & Engineering Showcase Awards, and a marketing team
from around the world that spends countless hours developing our no
compromise products to satisfy the most discriminating enthusiasts.
Our global manufacturing facilities feature ISO9002 ratings (the highest
level of quality control awarded in the electronics manufacturing industry), fully
robotic assembly lines and a state of the art, California based R & D
laboratory.
Due to overwhelming response from our competitors, and our goal to
participate in even more events this year, we created *"TEAM AUDIOBAHN."
This organization is designed to create a support network along with shirts and
perks for team members. "TEAM AUDIOBAHN" is not only for the diehard
competitor, but also for anyone that loves car audio as much as we do. With
four levels of play, one is right for you to get started in the Audiobahn family.
Our Technical Department and entire staff look to strive above and
beyond the rest of the pack by going that extra mile to help you out. Whether
you happen to be a veteran competitor, or a beginner car audio enthusiast
who does not know a voice coil from a spider. We are all her to help you get
the best system you can with what you have.
Judge for yourself, and remember what it's all about, "If it's not
Bigger, Badder & Better, it's not Audiobahn." If audio is your life,
Audiobahn is the brand for you! We make you look as good as you sound.
People never stop trying to get the best product, so we will never stop making
it.
*To learn more about "TEAM AUDIOBAHN" please give us a call, see our website at
www.audiobahn.com, or email us at [email protected] to learn about all the details.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
2
Introduction
Features and Specifications
Control and Functions
Planning / Mounting Your System
Adjusting and Tuning
Troubleshooting
Wiring Diagram
Warning and Disclaimer
Bridging 2 Amplifiers
3
4
5-10
11
12
16
15
17
13-14
Warranty 18-19

Introduction
Dear Customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of the worlds finest brand of car audio products. Here at
Audiobahn Inc. we are devoted to making our musical reproduction the vert best, and we are
pleased you have chosen our product. Through years of engineering expertise, hand
craftsmanship, and critical testing procedures, we have created a wide range of products that
reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.
For maximum performance we recommend you have your Audiobahn product installed by an
Authorized Audiobahn Dealer, as we provide specialized training through our Audiobahn
Installer Training Programs. Please read your warranty, keep your receipt, and original carton
for possible future use.
To get a free brochure on Audiobahn products in the US call [phone] or e-mail us at
[email protected].
WARNING
Continuous exposure to sound pressure levels over 100dB may cause permanent
hearing loss. High powered autosound systems may produce sound pressure levels
well over 135dB. Need we say more! Use common sense.
If after reading this manual you still have questions regarding your product, we
recommend that you see your nearest Audiobahn Dealer. A list of Authorized
Audiobahn Dealers can be found on our web page. If you need further assistance, feel
free to call us at [phone] and ask for the Technical Department. Be sure to have
the model number, date of purchase, and invoice number available when you call.
The model number can be located on the outside of the carton. Record this in the space
provided below along with the date of purchase. It is a good idea to keep your receipt
with this as you will need it if you require a warranty, repair service or exchange.
Model Number:___________________ Date of Purchase: _____________________
3

1-CHANNEL HIGH OUTPUT CLASS D AMPLIFIER
DOUBLE SIDED CIRCUIT BOARD
DUAL COOLING FANS
VARIABLE LOW PASS FILTER
REMOTE BASS BOOST CONTROL
DIGITAL DISPLAY VOLT-METER
L.E.D. ILLUMINATED HEAT SINK
VAIRIABLE LOW PASS FILTER 50Hz - 150Hz
VARIABLE BASS BOOST 0 - 18dB
INPUT SENSITIVITY 200mV to 8V
TYPICAL CURRENT DRAW 1.4 AMPS
POWER OUTPUT
A8001DT 1600 WATTS ACH POWER
INTO 4 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 300 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 2 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 500 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 1 OHM @ 12.5V DC.........................................................1 x 800WATTS RMS Power
A12001DT 2400 WATTS ACH POWER
INTO 4 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 400 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 2 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 750 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 1 OHM @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 1200 WATTS RMS Power
A18001DT 3600 WATTS ACH POWER
INTO 4 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 600 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 2 OHMS @ 12.5V DC........................................................1 x 1200 WATTS RMS Power
INTO 1 OHM @ 12.5V DC.........................................................1 x 1800WATTS RMS Power
FEATURES
SPECIFICATIONS
ILLUMINATED CIRCUIT BOARD
Features and Specifications
4
VARIABLE SUBSONIC FILTER 15Hz - 40Hz
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO > 100dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE + 3dB FROM 15Hz to 150Hz
Fuse Ratings
Dimensions
A8001DT: 30A x 3
A12001DT: 30A x 4
A18001DT: 30A x 5
A8001DT (W x H x L) : 11 15/16" x 2 1/2" x 13 3/8"
A12001DT (W x H x L) : 11 15/16" x 2 1/2" x 14 3/4"
A18001DT (W x H x L) : 11 15/16" x 2 1/2" x 16 7/8"

Controls and Functions
5

Controls and Functions
6
This plug connects the amplifier and the remote bass knob using the supplied cable.
This control adjusts the amplifier's input sensitivity. The input sensitivity is variable from 200 Millivolts to 8
volts. Turning clockwise increases sensitivity. Turning counter clockwise decreases sensitivity. This knob
is not a volume control for the amplifier. The amplifier can be driven to full power with a wide range of
input signals. A lower signal level will require increased sensitivity to reach full power. A higher signal level
will require decreased sensitivity.
These inputs are for signal cables from the source. Always use high quality, shielded RCA cables.
1. Bass Boost Gain Remote Control
2. Input Sensitivity Control
3. Low level Input RCA Jacks

Controls and Functions
7
The LINE OUT allows you to build a multiple amplifier system without having to use splitter cords or
Y-adapters to distribute the signal. Now it is simply a matter bringing one set of RCAs into the first
amplifier, then using the line out RCA jacks as the feed to the next amplifier.
By using the bass boost function, bass notes at 45Hz are emphasized as much as 18dB.
Allows you to change the phase of your subwoofer from 0 to 180 degrees to help compensate for timing
differences between drivers.
4. Low Level LINE OUT RCA Jacks
5. Bass Boost Control
6. Phase Shift Control

8
Controls and Functions
For use as a dedicated subwoofer channel, set the filter switch to the "LPF" (Low Pass Frequency).
Adjust the variable crossover frequency with control knob as desired. The amplifier input circuit filters out
everything above 50Hz ... 150Hz (dependant on the adjustment of the frequency control), so only the
lowest bass notes are amplified.
The sub sonic control will cut all frequencies below what it is set to from going to your sub(s). This will
prevent your subs from playing any frequencies that may harm them.
7. Low-Pass Filter Control
8. Sub Sonic Control
9. Bridged Connection
10. Light Switch
This is the connection used to bridge 2 two of the same class D amplifiers together. Later in this manual it
is explained how to bridge the amps and what settings to use.
This switch is used to tun the extrnal lights on and off. When set to the off position, only the
power/protection lights, volt-meter and clipping lights will stay on.

Controls and Functions
9
These terminals are used to wire your subwoofer(s) to the amplifier.
To avoid unwanted ignition noise caused by ground loops, it is essential that the amplifier be grounded to
a clean, bare, metal of the vehicle's chassis. This metal surface should be solid, strong and connected
directly to the frame of the car.
Note: GROUND WIRE SHOULD NOT BE EXTENDED MORE THAN 3 FEET (1 METER)
Due to the power requirements of the amplifier, this connection should be made directly to the positive (+)
terminal of the battery. For safety purposes, install an in-line fuse holder (not included) as close to the
battery positive (+) terminal as possible with an ampere rating not to exceed the total value of fuses in the
amplifier.
11. Speaker Terminals
12. B- Terminal (Chassis Ground)
13. B+ Terminal (Battery Positive)

Controls and Functions
10
The remote terminal needs to be wired to the car's stereo or source unit remote turn on wire. This
amplifier is turned on remotely when the vehicle's stereo is turned on.
NOTE: iF YOUR RADIO DOES NOT HAVE A +12 VOLT OUTPUT LEAD WHEN THE CAR IS TURNED
ON, THE "REMOTE" TERMINAL ON THE AMPLIFIER CAN BE CONNECTED TO THE VEHICLE'S
ACCESSORY CIRCUIT THAT IS LIVE WHEN THE KEY IS TURNED ON.
PWR (Power): This BLUE LED will illuminate when the amplifier is turned on. If it fails to illuminate, check
the fuses and power connections to the amplifier.
PROT (Protection): The amplifier protection circuitry will disable the amplifier if there is an imput overload,
sort vircuit, or extremely high temperature conditions are detected. When the protection mode is in
operation, the LED indicator on the side panel will be illuminated RED, indicating the amplifier has gone
into a self-preservation mode.
If you observe that the protection LED is lit, please check the system carefully to fetermine what has
caused the protection circuit to engage. The amplifier can be reset by turning the remote power off and
then on again. If the amplifier shut down due to a thermal overload condition, please allow time for the
amp to cool down before restarting. If the amplifier shut down because of an input overload or short
circuit, be sure to repair these conditions before attempting to power up the amplifier again.
14. Remote Turn-on Input
15. LED Indicators

b. Are your components matched? The RMS power rating of your speakers must be
equal or greater than the Amplifier's. They also must be 1-8 Ohms impedance
(this information is normally printed on the speaker magnet).
c. Consider both the length of your leads, and routing when determining the mounting
location. Pre-Amp input Jacks require a length of high quality shielded male to male
RCA patch cord.
NOTE:
DISTORTION LEVEL IS CONSIDERABLY LOWER FROM PRE-AMP (LOW LEVEL)
OUTPUTS, THAN SPEAKER (HIGH LEVEL) OUTPUTS.
Before beginning the installation, consider the following:
a. If you plan to expand your system by adding other components sometime in the
future, ensure that adequate space is left, and cooling requirements are met.
If your radio/source is equipped with Pre-Amp outputs, it is possible to utilize them
to drive an Amplifier and connecting (Amplifier) to the 2 rear speakers.
Then, use the built-in power of your radio to drive the 2 front speakers.
a. Select a suitable location that is convenient for mounting, accessible for wiring and
has ample room for air circulation and cooling.
b. Use the amplifier as a template to mark the mounting holes. Remove the amplifier
and drill holes. Use extreme caution. Inspect underneath the surfaces before drilling!
c. Secure the Amplifier using the screws provided.
The mounting position of your Amplifier will have a great effect on its ability to dissipate
the heat generated during normal operation. It has an ample heat sink for heat
dissipation, and also is designed with a thermal shut-down (for heat protection)circuit,
having enough air directed over the cooling fins will improve heat dissipation dramatically.
DO NOT enclose the amplifier in a small box or cover it so that air can not flow around
the fins. Temperatures in car trunks have been measured as high as (155 F) in the
summer time. Since the thermal shut-down point for the Amplifier is (158 F) it is easy
to see that it must be mounted for maximum cooling capability. To achieve the maximum
advantage of convection air flow in an enclosed trunk, mount the amplifier in a horizontal
position. Cooling requirements are considerably relaxed when mounting inside the
passenger compartment since the driver will not allow temperatures to reach a critical
point. Floor mounting under the seat is usually satisfactory as long as there is at least 1
inch (2.54 cm) above the Amplifier's fins for ventilation.
CAUTION: Before connecting any wires to the amplifier, disconnect the ground lead from
the battery. Leave the ground lead disconnected until you are done wiring the
amplifier.
Planning Your System
Mounting Your System
Planning and Mounting Your System
11

Wiring Diagram
12
MONO MODE

Bridging 2 Amplifiers
13
Master Slave
Master Slave
BRIDGED BRIDGED
IF BRIDGED SWITCH POSITION IS ON SLAVE, ALL CONTROLS ARE NON-FUNCTIONAL.
ALL CONTROLS ARE NOW CONTROLLED BY THE MASTER AMPLIFIER.
HEAD UNIT

Bridging 2 Amplifiers
14

Adjusting and Tuning
15
ADJUSTING THE GAIN / LEVEL SETTING
Below you will find information on adjusting the amplifiers gains. Adjusting the gain correctly is essential to
proper operation of the amplifier. If the gain is not adjusted properly it can and will lead to damage of
the amplifier and connected speakers and will void your MANUFACTURER WARRANTY. The gain on
an amplifier is not a volume control. It is a signal level setting that tells the amplifier how strong of a signal is
coming from the head unit. Your amplifier has an input sensitivity of 200mV-8V. The minimum setting is 8V
and the maximum setting is 200mV. Minimum meaning the head unit or processor has an 8V output and the
maximum meaning it has a 200mV output.
When using Low-Level (RCA) inputs you MUST know what the pre-out or line-out voltage of your head unit
is rate din Volts. This is not the wattage rating. This can be found in the manaul of the head unit or by
contacting the manufacturer. If you are using a line-driver or another type of processor that adjusts the output
voltage of the signal to the amplifier you will nee dto know what the output is adjusted to. the gain on the
amplifier needs to be set proportionately to th pre-out or line-out voltage rating of the head unit or processor.
If the signal strength is 4V then the gain would be adjusted to about 45-50%. Below is a list of commonly
found voltage ratings and their appropriate gain adjustments. When adjusting the gains you want to start with
the bass boost setting on the amp set to minimum and bass adjustments on the head unit or processor are
set at 0 or flat. As these other settings for bass adjustments are increased, the gain setting will need to be
adjusted lower.
2V 70%
4V 45%
5V 32.5
8V 5% (Bass boost must be left at minimum on the amp and 0 or flat on the head unit or processor)
10V Can not be used with this amplifier
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you should have any questions concerning the installation or
settings on your amplifier or are unsure of anything discussed in this manual, please
contact out Technical Support department at 1-800-488-8595 for help. It is much
better to take 5 minutes today to get it right then to adjust the settings incorrectly and
have a problem with your amp or speakers.
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If your amplifier includes Hi-Level (speaker wire) inputs and you are using them for the audio signal
connection, please use the below steps to adjust the amplifier. Start with a song with good bass that you
know very well.
1. Use a screwdriver to turn GAIN (8V/0.2V) fully counterclockwise to 8V
2. Turn the auto sound system's volume control to about 3/4 of its full range. Any higher normally leads to the
signal being distorted.
3. Turn up the amplifiers gain / level control until the sound begins to distort, then immediately gain / level
down to a point just before where the distortion began.
4. Adjust the auto sound system's volume control to a comfortable listening level and you are good to go.
Note: The steps to adjusting the gain / level control need to be repeated when you adjust any bass boost
settings on the amplifier, processors or significantly on the head unit. Adjusting bass boost settings
significantly without adjusting the gain / level can lead to a distorted signal and damage to the amp and
speakers.

Separate speaker wires and
insulate
Speaker wires short
STATUS
LAMP ON
Temperature shut down
Be sure proper speaker load
impedance recommendations
are observed.
(If you use an ohmmeter to check
speaker resistance, please
remember that DC resistance and
AC impedance may not be the
same.)
AMP
TURNING OFF
MEDIUM/HIGH
VOLUME
impedance
Check speaker load
Reverse Left and Right RCA inputs
to determine if it is occurring
before the amp.
Check Audio Leads
NO SOUND
IN ONE
CHANNEL
Inspect for short circuit or an
open connection.
Check Speaker Leads
Fuse broken
wire with receiver on
No power to remote
AMP NOT
SWITCHING
ON
No power to power wire
Is the Diagnostic
LED illuminated ? ( YES )
NO SOUND Is the power
LED illuminated ?
( NO )
Check fuses in amplifier.
Be sure Turn-on lead is connected
Check signal leads. Check gain
control.
Check Tuner/Deck volume level.
Clean contacts on fuse holders.
CHECK POINTS CURESYMPTOMS
Check for speaker short or
Amplifier overheating.
Repair power wire or connections.
Turn radio down
Replace fuse.
Check connections to radio.
Troubleshooting
16

Investigate the layout of your automobile thoroughly before drilling or cutting any holes.
Take care when you work near the gas tanks, lines, hydraulic lines, and electrical wiring.
Do not use the power amplifier unmounted. Attach the system securely to the automobile
to prevent damage, particularly in the event of an accident. Do not mount the system
so that the wire connections are unprotected or are subject to pinching or damage
from nearby objects.
The +12V DC power wire must be fused at the battery positive terminal connection.
Before making or breaking power connections at the system power terminals,
disconnect the +12V wire at the battery end. Confirm your radio/head unit and/or other
equiptment is turned off while connecting the input jacks and speaker terminals.
If you need to replace the power fuse, replace it only with a fuse identical to that
supplied with the system. Using a fuse of different type or rating may result in damage to
this system which is not covered by the warranty.
Disclaimer
Specifications are subject to change with out notice.
For the most updated Specifications call Audiobahn,
your local Authorized Audiobahn Dealer,
or check the Audiobahn website.
www.audiobahn.com
Warning / Disclaimer
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17
WARNING

Warranty
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18

How to receive warranty service: Contact your local Authorized Audiobahn Dealer, or call Audiobahn at
[phone] between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM PST.
If you are having problems with your system, we recommend you check the product carefully and
thoroughly to confirm that the product truly has a manufacturer defect; as opposed to abuse, or other
components in the system causing the failure. This might include having an Authorized Audiobahn
Dealer look at the product to confirm the source of the problem. Any product found to have a
manufacturer defect will be replaced with a new piece of the same or similar model, or repaired at the
discretion of Audiobahn. Any product found to have no manufacturer defect will be returned to the sender
at their cost.
You must acquire a Return Authorization Number ( #) prior to returning ANY product to
Audiobahn. That Return Authorization Number (RA#) must be prominently and clearly marked on the
outside of the shipping carton, or product delivery will be refused (no exceptions will be made).
Please note: All shipping and handling (to and from) charges will be the sole responsibility of the
consumer.
Please record and keep your Return Authorization Number (RA#) in the event that further communication
is required.
Return Authorization Number (RA#): ______________________________
Date product was sent: ______________________________
Warranty Continued

Brea, CA 92821
114 South Berry St.
Audiobahn Headquarters
Phone [phone] Fax. [phone]
Pacific Coast Time : 9am-5pm Mon. - Fri.
[email protected]
Contact Information
19