EarthQuake XJ-300 FR User manual

User’s Manual
Earthquake Sound Corp. | [phone] | www.earthquakesound.com
XJ-300 FR
2 Channel or Monoblock Class “J” Amplifier

2 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Earthquake Sound Corporation
2727 McCone Avenue
Hayward, CA 94545
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Customer Support
[email protected]
US Toll Free: 1-800-576-7944
Fax: [phone]
© 2011-2012 Earthquake Sound Corporation. All rights reserved.
ThisdocumentshouldnotbeconstruedasacommitmentonthepartofEarthquake
SoundCorporation.Theinformationissubjecttochangewithoutnotice.Earthquake
Sound Corporation assumes no responsibility for errors that may appear within
this document.
The Sound That Will Move You.
Safety Instructions
Safety First
This documentation contains general safety, installation, and operating
instructions for XJ-300FR. It is important to read this user’s manual before
attempting to use these products. Pay particular attention to the safety
instructions.
Symbols Explained:
Note:
Appears on the component to indicate the presence of
uninsulated, dangerous voltage inside the enclosure –
voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.
Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the like
that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in
injury or death.
Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the like
that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in
damage to or destruction of part or all of the product.
Calls attention to information that is essential to highlight.

XJ-300FR Manual 3Specifications are subject to change without notice
Safety Instructions
1) Read these instructions in their entirety.
2) Store this manual and packaging in a safe place.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow instructions (do not take short cuts).
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with a dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatuses that produce heat.
9) Donotdefeat the safety purpose of the polarizedor grounding-type plug.A
polarized plus has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-
type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or
the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not
fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete
outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the pint where they exit from the
apparatus.
11) Only use attachments & accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12) Use only compatible rack or cart for final resting position.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightening storm or when unused for a long
period of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required
when the apparatus has been damaged in anyway, such as: power-
supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15) To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus
to rain or moisture.

4 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Unpacking System Components
• Keep the original carton and packing materials for future shipment or
storage.
• Check for any visual signs of damage. If you encounter any concealed
damage, consult your Earthquake Sound dealer before proceeding with unit
installation.
• Retain the sales receipt as it establishes the duration of the limited warranty
and provides information for insurance purposes.
System Installation Considerations
There are several factors to consider before installing Earthquake Sound’s
XJ-300FR.
• What are the intended listening zones?
• What system options and accessories might be required for features such
as local sources, etc.?
• Fromwherein each zone will the listenerprefer to controlthe system? Where
will the remote gains be located? Where will the speakers be located?
• Where will the source equipment be located?
Connection Tips
• Keep all power cords away from all signal cables to prevent humming from
induced noise.
• Choose reliable signal cable cords (Earthquake Sound also specializes in
high-performance RCA cables and patches).
• All speaker wires that are ran through the walls should be twisted to reduce
potential hum noise pick up.
• Label both ends of all wires with the corresponding room location.
• It is best to use a grounded electrical outlet to power the amplifier. Lack of
input ground reference could be unsafe. Consult your electrical contractor
about proper grounding.

XJ-300FR Manual 5Specifications are subject to change without notice
Included in the Box
1 XJ-300FR Stereo Class “J” Amplifier
4 Short Mounting Ears
1 Bracket
4 Screws for the Bracket
1 Power Cord
Introduction
The XJ-300FR amplifier is an extremely versatile and modular amplifier. It can
be used as a two channel, 2.1 channel, or bridged as a 1 channel amplifier.
The XJ-300FR runs completely cool while outputting twice the power of most
amplifiers its size. Therefore, it is extremely flexible and can be used in many
different applications.
Multiple Mounting Options
The XJ-300FR is only one rack space tall and has a half-rack width chassis.
This smart design features a patented interlocking design so two XJ-300FRs
can be connected side by side and be rack mountable. Other amplifiers of
the same size run too hot to mount them near anything else which defeats
the purpose of their size. Because the XJ-300FRs run completely cool, you
can comfortably mount other components directly above or below them in
the rack. This means ultimate convenience for the installer. There are also
additional mounting holes on the sides of the amplifier so that short brackets
can be attached and the amp can be mounted directly to a wall or inside a
cabinet.
Speaker Set-up Options
One or two XJ-300FRs can power a 2.1 channel system. This depends on
how much power you want to output to your speakers. One XJ-300FR can
be used for two speakers while the other can be bridged as a monoblock.
Alternatively, you can use two linked XJ-300FRs as a 4 channel system. For
a more high powered system, bridge both of them and designate one speaker
or sub to one amplifier and another speaker or sub for the other. The installer
is completely in charge of how the amplifier’s power is distributed.
Applications
The XJ-300FR has countless applications because of how customizable the
channel set-up is. If you need to install in-ceiling speakers in the kitchen,
tower speakers in the living room, or rock speakers outside, the XJ-300FR
can perform accurately in every situation.

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Front Features
3) Auto Signal Sensing:
When in “AUTO ON”, the amplifier will turns on
once signal is sent to it. When in “AUTO OFF”,
the amplifier will stay on regardless of signal
presence.
1) Power Switch:
Turns the amplifier unit ON or OFF
2) LED Status Light:
When amplifier is ON, the LED will light green.
3) Auto Signal Sensing:
When set to “AUTO ON”, the amplifier will only turn on whenever
signal (50mV minimum) is present. Once signal is no longer present for
about 8 minutes, the amplifier will shut off automatically.
If set to “AUTO OFF”, the amplifier will stay on whether or not there
is signal present.
Note that the amplifier needs to be powered ON in either case.
4) Bypass/Lowpass Toggle Switch:
When set to ”BYPASS”, the amplifier crossover control is OFF.
This setting is best when using the XJ-300FR in the 2-channel or 2.1
configuration.
When set to “LOWPASS”, the crossover control is ON. This setting
is best when using the XJ-300FR as a mono block or subwoofer amplifier.
5) Phase Setting:
If you are using the XJ-300FR to power a subwoofer, you will need to
set the arrival time of the subwoofer’s frequencies to that of your speakers.
To do this with the highest accuracy, you will need an SPL meter supplied
at most electronics stores.
1) Power Switch:
Turns the amplifier unit
ON and OFF
2) LED Light:
Greenlightsignifies
the amp is on.
4) Bypass/Lowpass:
Set to BYPASS to use as
a 2 channel or 2.1 channel
amplifier. Set to LOWPASS
to use as a 1 channel or
subwoofer amplifier.

XJ-300FR Manual 7Specifications are subject to change without notice
5) Phase Setting:
Use to correct subwoofer
frequency arrival times.
Can only be used when in
“LOWPASS” setting.
7) Volume Setting:
Set based on the input
level and power rating of
your load.
To set the phase:
A) Send a 50Hz continuous tone signal through the speakers and the
subwoofer at the same time.
B) Turn the phase knob to zero and place the meter in the listening
position.
C) While the system is playing the 50Hz tone, read the meter.
D) Rotate the phase knob until the meter reads the highest
possible.
E) Take note of the position for future reference.
6) Crossover Setting:
As a rule of thumb:
A) If you are powering the THOR In-Wall SUB10, the Q10B tactile
transducer, or a large subwoofer (12” - 18”), set the crossover to
50Hz - 100Hz.
B) If you are powering a MQB-1 tactile transducer, a 10” subwoofer,
or small front speakers, set the crossover to 70Hz, or the 9 o’clock
position.
C) If you powering a small subwoofer (8”) or small speakers, set the
crossover to 100Hz, or the 12 - 2 o’clock position.
7) Volume Setting:
Always start at MIN position and slowly increase the volume to reach
the desired sound level.
6) Crossover Setting:
Sets the 3dB down maximum
frequency range. Note that the
amplifiermustbesetto“LOWPASS”
for this feature to work.

8 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Back Features
1) RCA Inputs
The most common
audio input
1) RCA Inputs:
If you are using the XJ-300FR as a mono block (1 channel amplifier),
connect to both L and R RCA terminals. Be sure the toggle switch is set
to “RCA” in order to use this input.
2) Input Toggle:
The XJ-300FR is capable of receiving signal through either the RCA
or USB input. Be sure to set the toggle switch to the audio input being
used.
3) USB Port:
Capable of receiving power and signal, the USB port is optimized for
use with the SWAT-2.4X Wireless Transceiver. It uses the standard 5.5V
USB. Be sure the toggle switch is set to “USB” in order to use this input.
2) Input Toggle
Switches between
RCA and USB
input.
3) USB Port:
Can receive both power
and signal.
4) Speaker Outputs:
Can be outputted to 2 speakers,
two speakers and a subwoofer, or
bridged to 1 channel.
USB Port
(+)
5.5V(L) (R) (–)
The four metal contacts enable the USB
to be used for both power and signal. The
outer metal contacts receive the positive
and negative currents while the inner
metal contacts receive the left and right
audio.

XJ-300FR Manual 9Specifications are subject to change without notice
4) Speaker Outputs:
A) To use the XJ-300FR as a two channel amplifier, connect the right
speaker to the R+ and R- terminals and the left speaker to the L+
and L- terminals.
B) To bridge the XJ-300FR as a one channel amplifier (or mono
block), connect the positive speaker wire to the L+ terminal and
connect the negative speaker wire to the R- terminal. Do not
connect anything to the two lower black terminals.
C) To use the XJ-300FR as a 2.1 channel amplifier, connect the right
speaker to the R+ and R- terminals and the left speaker to the L+
and L- terminals. Then, connect the subwoofer positive to the L+
terminal and the subwoofer negative to the R- terminal.
5) 110V/220V:
Do not attempt to change the voltage setting. The amplifier should
already be set to the correct voltage depending on your region. If not,
please contact your local Earthquake Sound dealer.
6) Power Supply:
Toaccessthe6A/250V replacementfuse,useaflathead screwdriver
to pry off the plastic cover. Make sure that the amplifier is not connected to
any power source when doing so.
5) 110V/220V Option:
Shouldalreadybesettothe
correct voltage depending
on your region.
6) Power Supply:
Comes with a 6A/250V
replacement fuse directly
under power inlet.

10 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Mounting Options for 1 XJ-300FR
The XJ-300FR also comes with four rubber feet to not damage the bottom in
the instance that it simply sits on a shelf or cabinet.
Then bolt to any vertical or horizontal
surface.
The XJ-300FR can uniquely be mounted to a wall or inside a cabinet. Simply
screw in the four short ears to the matching holes on the sides of the amplifier
chassis.
Wall (or Anywhere) Mountable

XJ-300FR Manual 11Specifications are subject to change without notice
Linking 2 XJ-300FRs
The XJ-300FR’s ingenious design lets the user link two amplifiers together
depending on the desired channel set-up.
1) Match the bolts on the left side of one amp with the linking holes on the right
side of the other amp.
2) Once they are connected, push the right amp forward while pushing the
left amp backwards until they are locked together. They are linked correctly
when the face plates are flush.
3) Bracket the back plates of the amps together for added reinforcement.
1
2
1
WHEN LINKING THE AMPS, DO NOT APPLY PRESSURE
ONTO THE FRONT PLATES OR BACK PLATES. THIS
COULD DAMAGE THE TERMINALS, KNOBS, OR TOGGLE
SWITCHES. AMPS DAMAGED IN THIS WAY ARE NOT
COVERED BY THE WARRANTY.
3

12 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Mounting 2 XJ-300FRs
Screw short mounting arms to the outer sides of the amplifiers so they are
rack mountable.
Or screw two mounting arms on each side so the set is wall mountable.

XJ-300FR Manual 13Specifications are subject to change without notice
Connecting to a Subwoofer/Tactile Transducer
Wiring with the THOR In-Wall Subwoofer
Receiver/Processor
+_
Wiring with the Q10B Tactile Transducer
Receiver/Processor
+_
Make sure the front toggle switch is set to “Low Pass” if
connecting to a subwoofer or tactile transducer.
Note:

14 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Connecting to Tactile Transducers
Make sure the front toggle switch is set to “LOWPASS” if
connecting to a subwoofer or tactile transducer.
Note:
Wiring with 2 MQB-1 Tactile Transducers
Receiver/Processor
+_
+_
Do not wire 1 MQB-1
with the mono bridge
setting. Use either the
left or right speaker
output.
Connecting to Outdoor Speakers
Make sure the front toggle switch is set to “BYPASS” if
connecting to speakers or a 2.1 channel system.
Note:
Receiver/Processor
Wiring with AWS All Weather Speakers
+_
+_
AWS 602 or AWS 802
This may overload the
speakers. Be sure to
not set the volume too
high.

XJ-300FR Manual 15Specifications are subject to change without notice
Wiring with the ROCK-on 2.1 channel system
Series Wiring
+_
+_
Connecting to Outdoor Speakers (cont.)
Granite-52 Speakers
Granite-10D Subwoofer
+_
+
_
Receiver/Processor
Though 1 XJ-300FR is capable of powering the Granite 2.1 system, you
can use 2 linked XJ-300FRs for more power. Set the bridged amplifier to
“LOWPASS” to power the subwoofer and set the other amp to “BYPASS” to
power the speakers.
Option 2
Granite-52 SpeakersGranite-10D Subwoofer
_
+_ +
_
+_+
This may overload the
speakers. Be sure to
not set the volume too
high.
This may overload the speakers.
Be sure to not set the volume too
high.

16 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
Connecting to SWAT-2.4X Wireless Transceiver
SWAT-2.4X Wireless Receiver
SWAT-2.4X Wireless Transmitter
Music Source
with audio output
The XJ-300FR is optimized for use with the SWAT-2.4X Wireless Transceiver.
After the amplifier is wired to the speakers, connect the SWAT-2.4X Receiver
to the USB inputs on the XJ-300FR using a USB cable. This will also power
the SWAT-2.4X Receiver, eliminating the use of the power supply.
Connect the SWAT-2.4X Transmitter to your
audio source, processor, or computer with a
USB cable. Now you can wirelessly transmit
audio to the XJ-300FR.
Make sure the back input toggle switch is set accordingly
when connecting to the SWAT-2.4X
Note:
NOTE:
If you choose to connect your audio source
using an RCA or mini-jack cable, be sure to
switch the toggle to “RCA” and power the
SWAT-2.4 with either the USB or the sup-
plied power supply.

XJ-300FR Manual 17Specifications are subject to change without notice
Specifications
Model No. XJ-300FR
Output Power 8-ohm load: 2 x 110 WRMS
4-ohm load: 2 x 170 WRMS
Mono Bridged:
8-ohm load: 170 WRMS
4-ohm load: 300 WRMS
Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz
THD 0.08%
Damping Factor >400
Signal to Noise Ratio >97dB
Power Line Voltage 110 - 120C ~ AC/60Hz/180W
(110/220V)
Input Sensitivity for
Full Output max/min: 0 - 5V
Input Impedance 10kOhm
Fuse Rating 6A/250V
Weight 3.8lbs/1.7kg
Dimensions
Short Ear
1-7/8”
1”
7/8”
8-1/2”
8” (chassis)
9-1/2” (including knobs)
1-7/8” (no feet)
2-1/16” (w/ feet)

18 XJ-300FR Manual Earthquake Sound Corp. | www.earthquakesound.com
5 Year Limited Warranty
Earthquake warrants the original purchaser that the speaker or
amplifier (product) is free from defects in material and workmanship, under
normal and proper use, for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase
(as shown on the original sales receipt with the serial number affixed/written
on it).
Thefive(5)yearswarrantyperiodisvalidonlyiftheproductisproperly
installed by an Earthquake authorized party, and the warranty registration
card is properly filled out and sent to Earthquake Sound Corporation. If the
product is installed by a non-authorized party, a thirty (30) days warranty
period applies.
(A) Five (5) years limited warranty plan coverage guidelines (If installed by an
authorized Earthquake dealer):
• First year: Earthquake pays for labor, parts, and ground freight
(only in the U.S. mainland, not including Alaska and Hawaii)
back to the customer.
• Second, third, fourth, and fifth year: Earthquake pays for labor
only. Customer must pay for parts and freight both ways.
(B) Warning:
• Products(sentforrepair) that are tested by Earthquake technicians
and deemed to have no problem, will not be covered by the five
(5) years limited warranty. Customer will be charged a minimum
of one (1) hour of labor (ongoing rates) plus shipping back to the
customer.
• Each product sent for repair must be packaged in its original
packaging. Otherwise, there will be a repackaging charge in
addition to labor, parts, and shipping charges.
(C) Earthquake agrees to repair or replace, at our option, all such defective
products/parts subject to the following provisions:
• Defectiveproducts/partshave not been altered or repaired by other
than an Earthquake factory approved technician.
• 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, removed, or have been used in anyway that is
contrary to Earthquake’s written instructions.
(D) Warranty Limitations:
Earthquake warranty does not cover products that have been modified and/or
abused, including but not limited to the following:
• Damagestounitcoverandfinishduetomisuse, abuse,orimproper
use of cleaning materials/methods.
• Bent casing, damaged finish on casing due to abuse, misuse, or
improper frame or broken connections.

XJ-300FR Manual 19Specifications are subject to change without notice
5 Year Limited Warranty (cont.)
• Fading, deterioration of components and finish due to improper
exposure to elements.
• Burnt tracers of PCB.
• Product/part damaged due to poor packaging or abusive shipping
conditions.
• Subsequent damage to other products.
Awarrantyclaimwillnot be valid if the warranty registration card is not properly
filled and returned to Earthquake with a copy of the sales invoice.
(E) Service Request:
To receive product(s) service, contact Earthquake Sound’s service
department at [phone] and request an RMA number (Return Material
Authorization), item(s) shipped without a valid RMA number will be refused.
Make sure you provide us with your complete and correct shipping address, a
validphonenumber,andabriefdescriptionoftheproblemyouareexperiencing
with the product. In most cases, our technicians might be able to resolve the
problem over the phone, thus eliminating the need to ship the product.
(F) Shipping Instructions:
Product(s) must be packaged in its original protective box(es) to
minimize transport damage. Shipper claims regarding item(s) damaged
in transit must be presented to the carrier. Earthquake Sound Corporation
reserves the right to refuse improperly packed product(s). A copy of original
sales receipt must accompany product(s) returned for service. We encourage
you to include a written description of the problem inside the package. Ship
product to: Earthquake Sound Corp.
2727 McCone Avenue
Hayward, CA 94545 USA
Ph: [phone]
You are responsible for the cost of shipping the product to Earthquake Sound
Corporation.
(G) Disputes Resolution:
All disputes, between clients and Earthquake Sound Corporation,
resulting from the five (5) years limited warranty policy must be resolved
according to the laws and regulations of the county of Alameda, California.

The Sound That Will Move You.
Earthquake Sound reserves the right to amend details of the
specifications without notice.
© Copyright Earthquake Sound Corporation
Earthquake Sound Corporation
2727 McCone Avenue, Hayward CA, 94545
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]