EarthQuake Nova PA-600 Operation manual Quick start guide

Nova
Power From The Heavens PA-600
Professional Amplifier
Operation Manual
& Technical Guide
Earthquake Sound Corporation. 2727 Mc Cone Avenue, Hayward, CA 94545. www.earthquakesound.com.
POWER
PROTECT PEAK SIGNAL
CH
1
LEVEL
MIN MAX
MONO
CH
2
LEVEL
SIGNAL PEAK PROTECT
MIN MAX
CH2 CH1
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+ CH 1 -
120W/8 Ohm
200W/4 Ohm
+ CH 2 -
120W/8 Ohm
200W/4 Ohm
FUSE
T3.15A~230V/50Hz
T6.3A~115V/60Hz 230VAC,50Hz
115VAC,60Hz
750W
VOLTAGE SELECT
115V 230V
CH2 CH1
CH2
CH1
2 C H A N N E L S / 6 0 0 W A T T S P R O F E S S I O N AL B R I D G E A B L E AM P L I F I E R
M A N U FA C T U R E D B Y E A R T H Q UA K E S O U N D C O R P O R A T I O N. BRIDGED(MONO)
400W/8 Ohm
LINE LEVEL INPUT

Earthquake Sound Corporation specializes in manufacturing high end Home and Car
audio products ranging from the smallest driver to the loudest subwoofer system. In its
dedication to excellence, Earthquake has maintained extensive programs in research and
developmenttoprovideyouwiththehighestqualityaudioproducts.
This owners manual is designed to better acquaint you with the PA-600 pro-
amplifier. It is imperative that you read this manual in its entirety. EARTHQUAKE
technicians and staff are looking forward to answer any questions you might have, please
call(1-800-576-7944).
channel @ 4 ohms stereo mode or 110 watts per channel @ 8 ohms (stereo mode); 560 watts
@ 4 ohms, 380 watts @ 8 ohms (bridged mono mode). Several "professional" features, such
as 1/4" and XLR input jacks with electronically balanced Low or Medium impedance
operation have been built into the amplifier. Limiting circuitry with LED indicators
constantlymonitorstheoutput levelof each channel and provides protection from clipping,
thus preventing the generation of speaker-damaging square waves. A built-in protection
The PA-600 is a ruggedly constructed high quality professional amplifier. The amplifier circuit protects the amplifier from overloads, short circuits, and overheating. In addition,
mounts into a standard 19" rack, requiring only two rack spaces (3-1/2 inches, vertically). each channel features a Signal LED to assist in hookup and troubleshooting and a Fault
Two automatic variable-speed internal cooling fans use the sides, rear and the front of the LEDwhichindicateswhentheinternalprotectioncircuitry isactivated.
amplifier - not the top and bottom - for its air intake and exhaust, allowing you to stack
multiple amplifierclosertogetherinarack mount situation.Additionalracksupportholes
have been provided along the rear of the amplifier for the most secure installation
possible.(Useoftheseadditionalsupportsisstronglyrecommended.)
The PA-600 produce up to 300 watts of power per channel @ 2 ohms, 200 watts per
CAUTION: the PA-600 is capable of generating high sound
pressure levels. You should exercise caution when operating this
amplifier system. Long term exposures to high levels of sound
pressure will cause permanent damage to your hearing. Sound
pressure levels exceeding 85dB can be dangerous with constant
exposure. Set your audio system to a comfortable loudness level.
Earthquake Sound Corporation does not assume liability for
damages resulting from the direct use of the PA-600 , and urges
userstoplaythePA-600 inmoderatelevels.
DEAR VALUED CUSTOMER.
THE CHART (ON THE SIDE) SHOWS THE U.S. GOVERNMENTS
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA)
REGULATIONS WHICH WERE IN EFFECT AT THE TIME OF THIS
PUBLICATION FOR PERMISSIBLE NOISE EXPOSURE,
PER 29CFR1910.95, TABLE G-16.
97
100
102
105
110
115
3
2
1 - 1 1/2
1
1/2
1/4 or less
SOUND LEVEL
DBA
90
92
95
8
6
4
DURATION
IN HOURS
-3-
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

POWER
PROTECT PEAK SIGNAL
CH
1
LEVEL
MIN MAX
MONO
CH
2
LEVEL
SIGNAL PEAK PROTECT
MIN MAX
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com
PA-600 AMPLIFIER FRONT & REAR PANELS FUNCTIONS/CONNECTION.
5 64
231
6 5
7 10 14 14 158
11 1112 12 13 13 16 1718
7
1.POWERSWITCH: 4.POWER INDICATORLED:
This switch turns the amplifier on in the up position ("I" pressed in ) and off in the down ThisLedilluminateswhenACpowerisappliedbymeansofthePowerSwitch(#1)
position. When AC power is applied to the amplifier, the power indicator led (#4)
illuminates. 5.PROTECT INDICATOR LED'S:
TheseLED's illuminatewheneverthe internalprotectionrelayfor thechannelis activated.
2.LEVELCONTROL(CH-1)&MONO: The protection relay is activated for a short period upon initial turn-on and at turn-off to
This rotary potentiometer controls the sensitivity or gain of (CH-1). Set them to the level preventtransient"spikes"frombeingreproducedthroughyourspeakers.Aprotectcondition
neededfor thedesired output.When amplifierisset inthe bridgemonomode, onlythis level is also indicated if the unit gets too hot, or if DC voltages are present at the output. During
control(CH-1)isactivein thismode. thermal protection, both channels are shut down. In the event of DC voltage on the output,
only the affected channel will be disconnected. The circuitry associated with the LED
indicatorsprovidesvaluableprotectionforboththeamplifierandyourspeakers.
3.LEVELCONTROLCH2:
This rotary potentiometer controls the sensitivity or gain of CH2. Set them to the level
needed for the desired output. When amplifier is set in the bridge mono mode, this level
controlisnotactive.
-4-
2 C H A N N E L S / 6 0 0 W A T T S P R O F E S S I O N AL B R I D G E A B L E A M P L I F I E R
9

PA-600 AMPLIFIER FRONT & REAR PANELS FUNCTIONS/CONNECTION.
Thesejacksacceptlinelevelsignalsourcesbymeansofcablesfittedwithstandard¼”phone
6.SIGNALINDICATORLEDS: plugs. Low or medium impedance balanced or unbalanced sources are acceptable for these
These LED's illuminate when signal is detected at the amplifier's output terminals, inputs. Balanced inputs are wired as follows: Tip = Signal (+), Ring = Signal (-), Sleeve
providing accurate visual confirmation of signal presence, which is helpful in hookup, and = Ground. Unbalanced inputs may be wired: Tip = Signal, Sleeve = Ground, using a
troubleshooting. The output signal must be at least 5% of the amplifier's full rated output to “mono”plug.
maketheLED'silluminate. NOTE: The input channel circuitry requires a line level signal of 1.1V RMS or greater to
drivetheamplifiertofulloutput.
7.COOLINGFANEXHAUSTVENT:
The PA 600 employs a pair of variable-speed internal cooling fans to draw air through the 13.BINDINGPOSTOUTPUT:
unit and keep it running cool even under extreme operating conditions. The air is drawn in These output connectors offer an excellent method of connecting the amplifier to your
through the unit's side and rear intake vents and is forced out through the front panel speakers using cables terminated with spade lugs, banana plugs, or bare wire. When using
exhaustvent.Thismethod ofcoolingdraws airoutfrom theinteriorof therackandprovides the amplifier in the Mono Mode, you must use either the two red binding posts or the
more efficient cooling methods, which bring air in from the front and exhaust it through the BIAMP/MONO (middle) Phone jack (#13). The Binding Posts are wired in parallel with
back.Keeptheseventsclearandfreefromobstructionatalltimestoinsurepropercooling. thePhoneJacks.
8.STEREO/MONOSWITCH: 14.SPEAKEROUTJACKS:
This switch connects the channels to work together for more power output. In the Theseheavy-dutyoutput jacksareto beusedtoconnectthe amplifiertoyour speakersusing
“STEREO”positiontheamplifier is inthe STEREO MODE; withthe switch in“MONO” cables terminated with Phone type plugs. These jacks are wired in parallel with the
MODE the amplifier is in the Bridge MONO MODE. In the Bridge Mono Mode, connect BINDING POSTS:channel1and 2 Phone Jacks are wired with pin#1(+) positiveor“in
inputto Channel 1(Channel 2's inputs are disconnected.)Bothamp channels are internally phase”,andpin#1(-)groundor“outofphase"(wired1+1-).TheMONO/BIAMPjackhas
bridgedtogether tocreatea single-channelamplifier of increasedoutput power.Usethetwo channel1wiredto1+and2+,with1+"inphase”.
red BINDING POSTS (labeled ”Mono/Biamp”) or pins 1+/2+ of the BIAMP/MONO
(middle)Phonejack. 15.VOLTAGESELECTOR:
9. AUTOON/OFF: Selection of AC 115V/60Hz or AC 230V/50Hz voltage source. Before connecting the power
The new auto sensing circuitry immediately senses signal as it reaches the amplifier, when plug to the wall AC outlet, make sure your local power line AC voltage matches the voltage
the music stops it will automatically fall asleep. While in sleep mode the PA-600 consumes settingofamplifier.
lessenergythancommonlysoldProAmps. 16.FUSE:Useonlythetypeoffusespecifiedonthebackofamplifier.
10.LIMITSWITCH:
Switch to “ON” position to activate the limit circuit to prevent the amplifier from clipping. 17.POWERCORD:
Signal indicator LED's will all be illuminated whenever the input signal attempts to This heavydutypowercordmust beconnectedtoagroundedAcoutlet ofthepropervoltage
overdrive the amplifier's output section. Not only does clipping produce harsh sounding for the amplifier to operate. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTREC SHOCK, DO
distortion, it is also capable of damaging speaker components-particularly high frequency NOTREMOVEORBYPASSTHEGROUNDPRONGOFTHEPOWERCORD.
drivers.
18.RCA INPUT: this isthe simplest / mostcommon way to drive an audio signal intothe
11.XLRBALANCEDINPUTJACKS: PA-600amplifier.
These jacks will accept any balanced or unbalanced low or medium impedence line level
source by means of a three-pin XLR plug. The wiring for the plug is as follows: :
Pin#1=Ground, Ultra sensitive input pre-amp stage circuitry. Some products on the market can produce
Pin#2=Signal(+), enough voltage to drive an amp but most don't. Earthquake increased sensitivity by giving
Pin#3=Signal(-). youmoreoutput withlessinput signal.This newcircuitrywill allowyouto drivethe ampto
fullstagewithaslittleas60milivolt.
12.¼”PHONEJACKINPUTS:
NEW
NEW
-5-
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

PA-600 AMPLIFIER CONNECTION (STEREO & MONO)
From audio source
From audio source
From audio source
2 to 8 ohms range
NOTE: Use both
Red Terminals ONLY
in Mono Mode
2 to 8 ohms range
4 to 8 ohms range
The PA-600 can be used in Stereo Mode as
two separate power amplifiers, each capable
of driving loads down to 2 ohms. Each
channel operates independently and has its
own input connectors, sensitivity level
controls, signal indicator LEDS, limiter
circuitry, fault protection circuitry, power
amp, and speaker outputs.
In Stereo Mode, the STEREO/MONO
SWITCHE must be in the "STEREO"
position. Either the binding posts or the
Phone jacks may be used to connect the
amplifier to the speakers. Both inputs must be
active (plugged) in stereo mode; either XLR
input, RCA input, or the Phone Jack input
can be used.
The two internal power amplifiers may be
bridged together to form a single, higher-
powered amp. In the Bridged Mono Mode,
the amplifier uses channel #1 INPUT jacks
and LEVEL CONTROL; channel #2 inputs
are disconnected. Channel #2 power amp
receives its signal from channel #1 input
This signal is connected to channel 2 prior to
its Limiter, so each channel is independently
protected. The STEREO/MONO SWITCH
must be in the MONO position. Because both
channels are being used (bridged in series),
the minimum load impedance is 4 ohms.
The RED binding post terminals (ch
1="+", ch 2=" + ") or the middle Phone jack
(ch #1) must be used to connect the amplifier
to the speakers.
-6-
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

PA-600 AMPLIFIER OPERATION
Stereo Mode:
Bridge Mono Mode:
The following diagrams are excerpts from the
system block diagrams and are intended to
provide a simplified view of the operating modes
of the amplifier.
BRIDGE MONO SWITCH: This switch connects
the channels to work together for more power
output. With the switch in "MONO" Mode the
amplifier is in the Bridge Mono Mode. In the
Bridge Mono Mode, connect input to Channel 1
(Channel 2's inputs are disconnected). Both amp
channel are internally bridged together to create a
single-channel amplifier of increased output power.
Use the two red BINDING POSTS (labeled
"Mono/Biamp") or pins 1+/2+ of the
BIAMP/MONO (middle) Phone jack.
-7-
CH 1
LEVEL
CH 1
LEVEL
CH 1
INPUTS
CH 1
INPUTS
RING
RING
TIP
TIP
2
2
3
3
1
1
PARALLEL
MONO
PARALLEL
MONO
CH 1
AMP
CH 1
AMP
CH 2 OUTPUTS
CH 2 OUTPUTS
CH 1 OUTPUTS
CH 1 OUTPUTS
+
+
+
+
1+
1+
1+
1+
2-
2-
2-
2-
CH 2
INPUTS
CH 2
INPUTS
RING
RCA#2
RING
TIP
TIP
2
2
3
3
1
1
BRIDGE
MONO
BRIDGE
MONO
CH 2
LEVEL
CH 2
LEVEL
STEREO
STEREO
STEREO
STEREO
CH 2
AMP
CH 2
AMP
BRIDGE
MONO
BRIDGE
MONO
BRIDGE
MONO
BRIDGE
MONO
STEREO
STEREO
RCA#1
RCA#2
RCA#1
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

17.06"
433.3mm
19.00"
482.6mm
3.49"
88.8mm
1.85"
46.9mm
INDICATES CENTER OF GRAVITY
1.54"
39.1mm
15.43"
392mm
PA-600 AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION & MOUNTING
The PA-600 is specifically designed to be rack mounted, either as a permanent
fixture or in a "mobile" rack. As with any large, heavy object, a proper
installation could mean the difference between success and disaster. The front of
the unit is designed to attach to standard rack rails. The four outermost holes
correspond to the screw on standard rack rails (2 rack spaces in height). Use only
10-32 threaded rack screws with large heads (such as a truss heads). The use of
nylon rack mount washers between the screw heads and the faceplate will keep
the faceplate from being scratched. Due to the depth and weight of the PA-600 a
set of rear support holes have been provided. It is highly recommended that the
installer use these holes to support the rear of the amplifier. A support rail, shelf,
or bracket can be attached to the amplifier and then to the installation
enclosure. One thought to keep in mind when considering the related hardware
for this: more is better when it comes to a secure installation - a little extra time
spent on installing a heavy object more than offsets the possible losses that
could be incurred if the object were to be damaged due to inadequate support.
The dimensions below are provided to assist you and/or your installation
engineer in mounting the amplifier securely.
-8-
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

POWER OUTPUT
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION
SLEW RATE
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO
LOAD IMPEDANCE
DAMPING FACTOR
CONTROLS
INPUT CONNECTIONS
OUTPUT CONNECTIONS
MODE SWITCHES
PROTECTION CIRCUITRY
COOLING
POWER REQUIREMENTS
SIZE AND WEIGHT
2 x 120 watts RMS @ 8 ohms 20Hz-20kHz (stereo mode)
2 x 200 watts RMS @ 4 ohms 20Hz-20kHz (stereo mode)
2 x 300 watts RMS @ 2 ohms 1kHz (stereo mode)
380 watts RMS @ 8 ohms 20Hz-20kHz (mono mode)
600 watts RMS @ 4 ohms 1kHz (mono mode)
+0/-0.5dB, 20Hz-20kHz
<0.05%, 20Hz-20kHz
40 volts / microsecond
> 89dB ref 200 watts /4 ohms (20kHz equivalent bandwidth)
2 ohms or greater in stereo mode
4 ohms or greater in mono mode
Typical 300 (1kHz, 8 ohms)
Two Front panel level setting knobs, one power switch
XLR, RCA and 1/4" phone (tip/ring/sleeve), one each channel
Binding posts each channel, Phone jacks(one each channel)
Mono Bridge mode select, Limiter "on"/"off"
Short circuit, open circuit, RF burnout, over temp, speaker protection relays,
turn on/off transient protection, DC protection, limiter circuitry
Variable speed forced air fan cooling rear/side intake, front exhaust
110 VAC 60Hz, 750VA
100-120 VAC 50/60Hz, 750VA
220-240 VAC 50/60Hz, 750VA
19" W x 3.49" H x 15.43" D; 29 lbs.
PA-600 AMPLIFIER SPECIFICATIONS
482.6mm W x 88.8mm H x 392mm D; 13.2 Kg.
-9-
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

Earthquake warrants the original purchaser that all Factory Sealed New Audio - Subsequentdamagetootherproducts.
Products be free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal and proper use, A warranty claimwill notbe validif thewarrantyregistration cardis notproperly filled&
for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase (as shown on the original bill of sale returned toEarthquakewithacopyofthesalesinvoice.
withserial numberaffixed/written on it).Thefive(5)yearswarranty periodis validonlyif
the product is properly installed by an Earthquake authorized party, and the warranty (E)ServiceRequest:
registration card is properly filled out and sent to Earthquake Sound Corporation. If the To receive product/sservice,contactEarthquakeservicedepartmentat(510)732-
productisinstalledbyanon-authorizedparty,aninety(90)dayswarrantyperiodapplies. 1000andrequestanRMAnumber(ReturnMaterialAuthorization),itemsshippedwithout
avalid RMAnumberwillberefused. Makesureyouprovideus withyourcomplete/correct
(A)Five(5)yearslimitedwarrantyplancoverageguidelines: shipping address, a valid phone number, and a brief description of the problem you are
- Firstyear:Earthquakepaysforlabor,parts,andgroundfreight(onlyin U S experiencing with the product. In most cases, our technicians might be able to resolve the
mainland,notincludingAlaskaandHawaii)backtocustomer. problemoverthephone,thuseliminatingtheneedtoshiptheproduct.
- Secondyear:Earthquakepaysforlaborandpartsonly,customermustpayfreight
bothways. (F)ShippingInstructions:
- Third, fourth & fifth year: Earthquake pays labor only. Customer must pay for Product/smustbepackagedinitsoriginal protectiveboxe/stominimizetransport
partsandfreightbothways. damage. Shipper claims regarding items damaged in transit must be presented to carrier.
Earthquake Sound Corporation reserves the right to refuse product improperly packed.
(B)Warning: Original bill of sale must accompany product returned for service. We encourage you to
Products (sent for repair) that are tested by Earthquake technicians and deemed include withthepackagea writtendescriptionoftheproblem.Shipproduct to:Earthquake
tohavenoproblem,willnotbecoveredbythefive(5)yearslimitedwarranty.Customerwill Sound Corp. 2727 Mc Cone Avenue, Hayward, CA 94545. Ph [phone]. You are
bechargedaminimumofone(1)houroflabor(ongoingrates)plusshippingchargesbackto responsibleforthecostofshippingtheproducttoEarthquakeSoundCorporation.
customer. (G)DisputesResolution:
(C)Earthquake agreesto repairorreplace-at ouroption -allsuchdefectiveproducts/parts Alldisputes-betweenclientsandEarthquakeSoundCorporation-resultingfrom
subjecttothefollowingprovisions: the five (5) years limited warranty policy must be resolved according to the laws &
- Defectiveproducts/partshavenotbeenalteredorrepairedbyotherthan a n regulationsofthecountyofAlameda-California.
Earthquakefactoryapprovedtechnician.
- Products/parts are not subjected to negligence, misuse, improper use, or accident,
damaged by improper line voltage, used with incompatible products, or have its
serial number or any part of it altered, defaced or removed, or have been used in
anywaythatiscontrarytoEarthquake'swritteninstructions.
(D)WarrantyLimitations:
Earthquakewarrantydoesnotcoverproductsthathavebeenmodifiedorabused.Including
butnotlimitedtothefollowing:
- Damagestospeakercabinetandcabinetfinishduetomisuse,abuse,or u s e
ofimproperuseofcleaningmaterials/methods.
- Bentspeakerframe,brokenspeakerconnectors,holesinspeakercone,surround&
dustcap,burntspeakervoicecoil.
- Fading,deteriorationofspeakercomponents& finishdueto improperexposureto
elements.
- Bent amplifier casing, damaged finish on the casing due to abuse, misuse, or
improperuseofcleaningmaterial.
- BurnttracersonPCB.
- Product/partdamagedduetopoorpackagingorabusiveshippingconditions.
5-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
-10-
Specifications & features are subject to change without notice. www.earthquakesound.com

WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD
Cut along dotted line & return to Earthquake Sound Corporation. 2727 Mc Cone Avenue, Hayward , CA 94545.
Required Information:
First name:___________________________________________________________________________
Last name:___________________________________________________________________________
Street address:________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
City:_________________________________________State:_______________ Zip:______________
Phone number: (_______)______________________________________________________________
Model number:_______________________________________________________________________
Date of purchase:_____________________________________________________________________
Purchase price:_______________________________________________________________________
Serial number: _______________________________________________________________________
Dealer name:_________________________________________________________________________
Dealer address:_______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
City:______________________________________ State:________________ Zip:_________________
Signature:____________________________________________________ Date:_________________
Your Comments: ______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
LIMITED
5
YEARS
WARRANTY
(Valid In U.S. Mainland Only- Excluding Alaska & Hawaii)
Apply Serial Number Here

To: Earthquake Sound Corporation. 2727 Mc Cone Avenue,
Hayward, California 94545. Ph [phone].
Place
Stamp
Here
From: _______________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________
LIMITED
5
YEARS
WARRANTY
(Valid In U.S. Mainland Only- Excluding Alaska & Hawaii)