AudioBahn ABC525V User manual

MATCHED COMPONENT SPEAKER SYSTEM
ABC680V ABC600V ABC525V
OPERATING INTSTRUCTIONS
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
website at www.audiobahn.com, or email us at [email protected] to learn about all the
details.

2
Getting Started-----------------------------------------------------
Introduction----------------------------------------------------------
Features and Specifications-------------------------------------
Mounting and Setup------------------------------------------------
Choosing a Location-----------------------------------------------
Installation------------------------------------------------------------
Wiring------------------------------------------------------------------
Securing the Speaker----------------------------------------------
Troubleshooting------------------------------------------------------
Warning and Disclaimer-------------------------------------------
Warranty---------------------------------------------------------------
Welcome to Audiobahn Inc.. This manual has been designed to provide information for
the owner, salesperson, and installer. For those of you who want quick information on
how to install this product, please turn to the installation section of this manual. Other
information can be located by using the table of contents. We at Audiobahn Inc. have
worked very hard to make sure that all of the information in this manual is current, but,
as we are costantly finding new ways to improve our product, this information is subject
to change without notice. All updated information can be found on our web page in the
technical support section.
Getting Started
Table of Contents
2
3
4
5-8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15-16

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 in the case of needing a warranty, repair service or
exchange.
Model Number:___________________ Date of Purchase: _____________________
3

Features and Specifications
�
SPUN ALUMINUM 1 PIECE CONE
BUTYL RUBBER SURROUND
2-LAYER HIGH-TRMP ASV VOICE COIL
4 OHM IMPEDANCE
COMPONENT MATHED 12dB PER OCTAVE CROSSOVER NETWORK
1" SILK DOME TWEETER (SURFACE OR FLUSH MOUNT)
COMPLETE WITH MOUNTING HARDWARE
STRONTIUM MID-WOOFER MAGNET
NEODYNIUM TWEETER MAGNET
FEATURES
SPECIFICATIONS
POWER HANDLING
ABC680V: 160 RMS POWER
320 ACH POWER
ABC600V: 140 RMS POWER
280 ACH POWER
ABC525V120 RMS POWER
240 ACH POWER
FREQUENCY
ABC680V: 25Hz - 25kHz
ABC600V: 30Hz - 25kHz
ABC525V: 35Hz - 25kHz
MAGNET WEIGHT
ABC680V: 15oz
ABC600V: 15oz.
ABC525V: 15oz.
SENSITIVITY
ABC680V: 93dB
ABC600V: 91dB
ABC525V: 90dB

Mounting
�
Amplifier
Tweeter
Midwoofer
Tweeter
Amplifier / Source

Wiring and Controls
6
From left to right you have three sets of terminals. The left terminal in each set
is negative (-) and the right terminal is positive (+). (1) is the input terminals. This is the
speaker wire coming from your amplifier or source unit. (2) is the tweeter output. This is
the speaker wire going to the tweeter. (3) is the midwoofer output. This is the speaker
wire going to the midwoofer.
(4) is the tweeter gain switch. This allows you to adjust the gain of your
tweeter. It allows you to switch between 0dB and -3dB. Setting the switch in the left
position (5) sets it at 0dB, and setting the switch in the right position (6) sets it at -3dB.
1 2 3

It is always best to plan the complete installation prior to attempting to install any product. The routing of wires,
power connections and mounting locations should be planned first. As with any car stereo installation, and all
work performed should be checked thoroughly and carefully prior to the operation of the system.
The placement of your Audiobahn speakers within your vehicle will greatly affect the overall performance of
your audio system. Every vehicle is different, so installation into particular locations of the vehicle may not be
possible without modifications. Factory provided locations are generally preferable due to ease of installation. In
all cases speakers should be placed in a location free of obstruction by body panels, window cranks, storage
compartments or anything that may hinder the speakers performance. Avoid areas that do not provide a flat,
sturdy mounting surface.
Audiobahn AS series speakers are designed to fit into almost any factory location. Again, if at all possible it is
recommended that you use a factory location. This applies mostly to later model vehicles. For those earlier
models that do not have factory locations or are limited to front locations, it is recommended that you choose an
are with sufficient airspace.
If you allow an insufficient amount of airspace, the speaker may not reproduce low frequencies very well. It is
recommended to mount the speakers in door panels, kick panels, rear decks, etc. Ideally the speaker should be
mounted where it will be in a n enclosed airspace allowing for extended bass response.
Choosing A Location
7

Installation
Note: Audiobahn Strongly recommends that you operate your system at low volumes prior to the completed
installation of your Audiobahn speakers. This will allow a test of the speaker before securing it to its permanent
location.
Caution: Make sure that all speaker wiring is fully protected from cuts, tears and possible wear. All short circuits
developing as a result could severely damage the source unit or possibly the amplifier as well as the speakers
themselves. Makes sure all speaker wires are placed easily within reach of the speaker terminal with no stress
on the wire or connectors.
1) Confirm the mounting location and depth requirements by inspecting the area where the speaker will be
mounted. Most speakers will fit into stock locations on the vehicle. In this case only depth consideration is
important.
2) If the location you have picked does require cutting, you may use the supplied template to help you locate
and mark the mounting location and cuts to be made. Be careful when cutting out the template. If you cut the
template properly, the speaker will be a perfect fit.
3) If there is a cosmetic panel where the speaker will be mounted, we recommend using a utility knife to
carefully cut a hole in it. Confirm the cut by placing the speaker in the hole. You may need to modify the hole
cut as necessary.
4) If it is necessary to cut steel, reinstall the cosmetic panel in place and use the hole you have previously cut
as a template. This will help to insure proper cutting and a good fit. Mark the locations for the speaker mounting
screws. Then remove the panel and drill the screw holes. When finished you can replace the panel.
5) After cutting and drilling all holes, inspect the mounting areas for any metal burrs or rough edges. File any
area that may interfere with the mounting of the speaker.
6) Clean any metal shavings from the mounting area and check for areas in which water may enter the speaker
cavity. Treat the area for water protection when necessary.
Make sure your source unit (Cassette, CD, DAT, DVD etc.) is turned off while connecting the speaker terminals.
Turn on the various components and slowly advance the volume. Remember to check and recheck all
connections to insure you have a secure fitting.
Mounting
Installation
8

Wiring
Audiobahn recommends using at least 18-gauge wire with your new speaker system. Thinner gauge wire may
easily be severed and can cause damage to your system should any bare wires come in contact with the
vehicles chassis.
Makes sure that your audio system is off while installing and connecting your new Audiobahn Speakers.
Failure to do so could result in damaging the speaker beyond repair. This is not something that would be
covered under the manufacturer warranty.
Be sure to route the wires to the speakers with the insulated terminal ending at the speaker. This will insure a
good contact with the speaker. If you need to shorten the speaker lead, do so on the opposite end of the
insulated terminals or the bare end.
Be sure the polarity is correct at all times. The speaker leads are color coded for negative and positive. Make
sure that the leads connected to the positive terminal of your amplifier or source unit is correctly connected to
the positive terminal of the speaker.
To insure long-term reliability all bare wires and wire-to-wire connections should be soldered and insulated
with heat shrink or electricians tape. Under no circumstances should you leave any bare wires uncovered, as
this can and will lead to the failure of your speakers and possibly other components.
When mounting in a door it is imperative to have the right amount of slack in the connecting wire as to not get
crimped or torn when the door is opened or closed. Avoid areas of the door jam that pinch. This will cause
damage to the speaker and other components over long-term use.
Once the speaker wiring is complete, you can connect the opposite end to the amplifier or source unit. Again,
be sure to observe correct polarity. Solder and wrap all stripped connections.
Wiring
9

Securing the Speaker
Once you have tested your system and confirmed that it is operating properly, turn off your system and
prepare for the final mounting of the speakers.
1) Position the speaker into the mounting hole and confirm the correct mounting location and hole
placement. Screw clips are provided to insure a snug fit. Place screw clips over the metal surface
and line up the hole with the hole you have previously drilled. Place the speaker into the hole. Align
the mounting holes and proceed to insert the screws. Be sure to tighten the screws evenly as
not to warp the speaker frame.
2) Turn your system back on to confirm the speakers proper operation. First test at low volume and
then you may steadily increase the volume as desired
3) The next steps will aid in the proper mounting of the speaker grills. Follow these steps carefully
and be patient. First, locate the special bonding rubber which is located between the wax paper in
the hardware package.
4) Carefully inspect the mounting ring where the grill will be inserted. You will notice 4 to 6
channeled areas. This is the area where the bonding rubber will secure the grill to the speaker.
5) Break off pieces of the bonding rubber that correspond to the size of the channels and insert it
snugly in place. Once all of the channels have been filled, carefully insert the grill and press firmly
into place.
Warning
It is extremely important that the mounting ring is correctly installed around the speaker. You may notice
differences in the inner shape of the grill. These cutouts are so the bridges holding the tweeters and or mids
do not touch. You should be able to see the bridge unobstructed when the ring is mounted.
Securing the Speaker
10

In the event that your Audiobahn speakers appear to require service we ask that you first do a little trouble
shooting to determine if the problem is actually the speaker, or a problem located in a different part of the vehicle
such as the amplifier, wiring, fusing or possibly the source unit.
If your Audiobahn speakers have been installed professionally by an authorized Audiobahn Dealer, we
recommend that you return to the dealer and demonstrate the problem to a qualified installer or repair technician.
If you installed the speaker yourself, use the following guidelines to help find the problem.
1) No Sound
*Check the source or amplifier for power and be sure they are operating properly
*Check all signal Connections
*Check for any wiring that may be shorting together or touching the metal chassis
*Check all ground connections
2) Distorted Sound at All Volumes
*Check for bad speaker connections
*Check wiring for correct polarity
3) Distorted Sound at High Volumes Only
*Check for loose mounting of the speaker
*Inspect the speaker for debris in the cone or other obstructions
*Check the woofer cone for any damage or defects
4) Poor Bass Response
*Check wiring for correct polarity
*Check for unstable or loose mounting surface
*Check bass & treble controls as the source unit or amplifier
5) Poor High Frequency Response
*Check wiring for correct polarity
*Check treble control or EQ settings
*Check the tweeter for possible damage
Troubleshooting
11

Investigate the layout of your automobile thoroughly before drilling or cutting any holes.
Take care when you work near gas tanks, gas 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 a 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 web site.
www.audiobahn.com
Warning / Disclaimer

12
WARNING

Audiobahn Consumer
Product Warranty Policy
Audiobahn products are manufactured with the highest quality components and some of
the most advanced technology available. Because of this, we recommend that you have
your new products installed by an Authorized Audiobahn Dealer. (A list of Authorized
Audiobahn Dealers can be found on our web page).
Warranty Period: One year from the original date of purchase.
Warranty Coverage: This warranty covers manufacturer defects only. The warranty is
applicable to the original purchaser, and is non-transferable. You must provide a receipt
from an Authorized Audiobahn Dealer that shows the location of purchase, price paid,
and date of purchase.
(Products purchased by consumers from an Authorized Audiobahn Dealer outside the
United States are covered only by the Distributor of that specific country and are not
covered by Audiobahn).
Notes:
Complete subwoofer enclosures (Audiobahn will replace defective subwoofers,
plexiglass, or neon only. Do not send the entire enclosure, unless the enclosure is
defective itself. You must receive prior authorization and an RA# before sending in any
complete enclosure).
AUDIOBAHN DOES NOT WARRANTY ANY PRODUCTS NOT PURCHASED
THROUGH AN AUTHORIZED DEALER.
(A list of Authorized Audiobahn Dealers can be found on our web page).
Any product not purchased from an Authorized Audiobahn Dealer (including Internet
dealers)
Damage caused by abuse, misuse, accident, water / flood, or theft (including any
cosmetic damage to the body of the product)
Damage caused by improper installation
Any cost or expense related to removal or reinstallation
Any unauthorized services
Any product that has the serial number removed, altered, or defaced
Subsequent damage to any other components
Pinched, cut, or stripped wires / terminals
Any product that is new, and/or found to be in working condition
L.E.D. indicators on electronics (Audiobahn will only replace L.E.D.(s) found to be
defective at the time of purchase)
Warranty

13
AUDIOBAHN WARRANTIES DO NOT COVER THE FOLLOWING: