MartinLogan MP500 User manual

Operating ManualMulti-Purpose Amplier
MP500
®
MP500
POWER STEREO SUB
®

1
WARNING: To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not
expose this apparatus to rain or moisture, and objects lled
with liquids, such as vases, should not be placed on this ap-
paratus.
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug
to wide slot, fully insert.
CAUTION: For continued protection against risk of re, re-
place the fuse only with the same amperage and voltage type.
Refer replacement to qualied service personnel.
WARNING: Unit may become hot. Always provide adequate
ventilation to allow for cooling. Do not place near a heat
source, or in spaces that can restrict ventilation.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any of the 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 apparatus (including am-
pliers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.
A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the
other. The wide blade is provided for your safety. When
the provided plug does not t 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
point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use the attachments/accessories specied by the
manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket
or table specied by the manufacturer, or
sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servic-
ing is required when the apparatus has been damaged
in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is dam-
aged, 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.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not
expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Avoid installing
this unit where foreign objects may fall onto this unit and/or
this unit may be exposed to liquid dripping or splashing. On
the top of this unit, do not place:
• Burning objects (i.e. candles), as they may cause re dam-
age to this unit, and/or personal injury.
• Containers with liquid in them, as they may fall and liquid
may cause electrical shock to the user and/or damage to
this unit.
Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and
no objects lled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on
the apparatus.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN
The lightning ash with arrowhead
symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may
be of sucient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of
important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
CAUTION

2
Do not install this equipment in a conned space such as a
case or similar. Install it away from direct sunlight, heat sources,
vibration, dust, moisture, and/or cold.
Do not cover this unit with a newspaper, tablecloth, curtain,
etc. in order not to obstruct heat radiation. If the temperature
inside this unit rises, it may cause re, damage to this unit,
and/or personal injury.
Install this unit near the AC outlet and where the AC power
plug can be reached easily.
This unit is not disconnected from the AC power source when it
is turned o. This state is called the standby mode. In this state,
this unit is designed to consume a very small quantity of power.
CAUTION: Top surface can become hot.
CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualied
service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock,
do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the
operating instructions unless you are qualied to do so.
CAUTION: Changes or modications to this equipment not
expressly approved by MartinLogan for compliance could void
the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
FCC WARNING: Changes or modications not expressly ap-
proved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential instal-
lation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that inter-
ference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equip-
ment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment
o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the inter-
ference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
MP500.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent
from that to which the MP500 is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technician
for help.
DO NOT LOCATE IN THE FOLLOWING PLACES:
To ensure long-lasting use, do not locate the unit:
• Exposed to direct sunlight.
• Near sources of heat such as heaters.
• Highly humid or poorly ventilated.
• Dusty.
• Subjected to mechanical vibrations.
• On wobbly, inclined, or otherwise unstable surfaces.
• Near windows where there is a chance of exposure to rain,
etc.
• On top of an MP500 or another component which dissi-
pates a great deal of heat.
To ensure proper heat radiation, ensure clearance from walls
and other equipment according to the diagram.
Left: 63mm
(2.5 in) or more
Above: 15mm
(0.6 in) or more
Right: 63mm
(2.5 in) or more
MP500
POWER STEREO SUB

3
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR UK CUSTOMERS: DO NOT cut
o the mains plug from this equipment. If the plug tted is not
suitable for the power points in your home or the cable is too
short to reach a power point, then obtain an appropriate safety
approved extension lead or consult your dealer. If, nonetheless,
the mains plug is cut o, REMOVE THE FUSE and dispose of the
PLUG immediately, to avoid possible shock hazard by inadver-
tent connection to the mains supply. If this product is not pro-
vided with a mains plug, or one has to be tted, then follow the
instructions given below:
IMPORTANT: DO NOT make any connection to the larger ter-
minal which is marked with the letter “E” or by the safety earth
symbol or colored GREEN or GREEN AND YELLOW.
The wires in the mains lead on this product are colored in accor-
dance with the following code:
• BLUE — NEUTRAL
• BROWN — LIVE
As these colors may not correspond with the colored markings
identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
• The BLUE wire must be connected to the terminal marked
with the letter “N” or colored BLACK.
• The BROWN wire must be connected to the terminal marked
with the letter “L” or colored RED.
When replacing the fuse, only a correctly rated and approved
type should be used, and be sure to ret the fuse cover. If in
doubt, consult a competent electrician.
NOTES ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
At the end of its useful life, this product must not be disposed
of with regular household waste but must be returned to a
collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic
equipment. The symbol on the product, the user’s manual,
and the packaging point this out. The materials can be reused
in accordance with their markings. Through reuse, recycling of
raw materials or other forms of recycling of old products, you
are making an important contribution to the protection of our
environment. Your local administrative oce can advise you
of the responsible waste disposal point.
CdHgPb
RECYCLING AND REUSE GUIDELINES (Europe)
In accordance with the European Union WEEE (Waste Electri-
cal and Electronic Equipment) directive eective August 13,
2005, we would like to notify you that this product may con-
tain regulated materials which, upon disposal, require special
reuse and recycling processing. For this reason, MartinLogan
has arranged with its distributors in European Union mem-
ber nations to collect and recycle this product at no cost to
you. To nd your local distributor, please contact the dealer
from whom you purchased this product or go to our website
at www.martinlogan.com.
Please note that only the product falls under the WEEE direc-
tive. When disposing of packaging and other shipping materi-
al, we encourage you to recycle through the usual channels.
MartinLogan and any related party assume no liability for the
user’s failure to comply with any requirements.
MartinLogan is registered trademarks of MartinLogan, Ltd.
©MartinLogan, Ltd. All rights reserved.
The information contained herein may not be reproduced in
whole or in part without our express written permission. We
reserve the right to change specications or features without
notice as design improvements are incorporated.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective
owners.

4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction and Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.1 Before Making Connections ..................5
1.2 Box Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 In-Use Notices ..............................5
1.4 Rack and Shelf Mounting .....................5
1.5 Front Panel (Status Lights) ....................6
1.6 Back Panel .................................7
1.7 Quick Start .................................8
2. Connections and Back Panel Controls .............9
2.1 Speaker Connections ........................9
2.2 Connecting Stereo Speakers (or MartinLogan
Outdoor Living Foundation 8.1 System) ..........9
2.3 Connecting A Passive (Non-Powered)
Subwoofer ................................10
2.4 Connecting Dual Dynamo IW Subwoofers .....10
2.5 Digital Input ...............................11
2.6 Analog Inputs..............................11
2.7 Subwoofer Input ...........................11
2.8 Power ....................................11
2.9 Trigger Connections ........................11
2.10 Master Power Switch .......................11
2.11 USB Connection............................11
3. DSP Presets....................................12
3.1 DIP Switch Functionality.....................12
3.2 DSP Preset Dip Switch Positions ..............12
4. Fault Modes ...................................13
4.1 Front Panel Power LED......................13
4.2 Front Panel Zone LEDs ......................13
5. Frequently Asked Questions.....................14
 6.Specications..................................15
7. Limited Warranty ..............................16
8. The Big Picture: MP500..........................18

5
1. INTRODUCTION AND QUICK START
Thank you for purchasing the MartinLogan MP500. All
MartinLogan products are engineered to recreate the passion
of a live musical performance and emotional involvement
experienced in the best movie theaters by utilizing the highest
level of circuit design, superior parts and manufacturing
techniques, innovative features, and intuitive ergonomics.
We are condent that their inclusion in a system signicantly
enhances the enjoyment of recordings.
1.1 BEFORE MAKING CONNECTIONS
Check that you have received all items listed below and report
discrepancies to your dealer as soon as possible. In case
the MP500 needs to be transported in the future, keep the
packing materials. Retain the invoice that you received from
your authorized MartinLogan dealer at time of purchase. The
invoice is necessary to obtain service under warranty.
1.2 BOX CONTENTS
• MP500 Amplier
• Rack Mount Ears
• Euroblock Connectors (Preinstalled)
• Power cord
1.3 IN-USE NOTICES
• Disconnect the power cord or ip the AC switch to OFF
before connecting or disconnecting any components.
• If the MP500 was transported or stored in the cold, let it
reach room temperature before use.
• Do not remove the top cover.
• Do not modify the product.
• Due to continuing advances, operational characteristics
may change. If this manual contains discrepancies, please
check www.MartinLogan.com for the latest manual.
1.4 RACK AND SHELF MOUNTING
The MP500 ships with both rack mount ears and feet for shelf
mounting. Before rack mounting the unit, it is recommended
to remove the feet on the bottom of the unit. To attach the
rack mount ears, install as shown in the following diagram.
If a dual amplier installation is desired, an optional MPX500CB
Connector Bracket (sold separately) is available. This bracket
connector axes two ampliers side-by-side, as shown in the
following diagram.

6
MP500
POWER STEREO SUB
1 2 3
MP500 Front Panel
1.5 FRONT PANEL (STATUS LIGHTS)
Power:
Blue = Unit is on and ready to play
Red = Unit is in standby or a fault condition has occurred
O = No AC power/AC power switch turned o
Stereo
Blue = Amplier playing in Stereo mode
Red = A Fault Condition has occurred
O = No stereo input signal detected (or amplier is
operating in Subwoofer mode)
Sub:
Blue = Amplier playing in Subwoofer mode
Red = A fault condition has occurred
O = No subwoofer input signal detected (or amplier is
operating in Stereo mode)
For more information, please refer to sections 6 (Fault
Modes) and 7 (Troubleshooting).

7
1.6 BACK PANEL
Trigger input
Coaxial digital audio input
Analog RCA stereo inputs
Power cord inlet (IEC C18 type)
Power: Main power switch ON/OFF
Volume: -60dB to 0dB
Subwoofer input
Optical digital audio input
Trigger Pass-through
DIP Switches: Digital Input and DSP Preset Selection
PC Update (USB) for Firmware Updates
Euroblock speaker terminals
For more information, please refer to section 3 (Connections
and Back Panel Controls).
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
MIN MAX
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
120-240VAC at 50-60Hz 500W
INPUT
VOLUME
MP500
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
SUB
COAX
F 8A H 250V
L
R
L
1
12 11 8 7 6 5910
2 3 4
MP500 Back Panel

8
1.7 QUICK START
This quick start section includes just enough information to
get the MP500 operational. For a deeper understanding of
speaker and subwoofer connection options, please review the
rest of this manual.
1. The MP500 comes out of the box with the shelf/tabletop
feet installed. When rack mounting is desired, these feet can
be removed using a Phillips screwdriver. The included rack
mount ears can be attached using a T10 Torx driver (not
included).
2. Speaker Connection(s):
Connect a pair of speakers using a Euroblock (aka PhoenixTM)
connector (included) which accepts speaker wire from 28 up
to 12 gauge.
a. Pull both sides of the Euroblock connector to remove it
from the MP500.
b. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten
each contact on the Euroblock when inserting the
speaker wire.
c. Follow positive (+) and negative (-) indications shown
on the Euroblock connector.
d. After attaching speaker wires to the Euroblock connector,
insert it back into the MP500.
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
COAX
L
R L
3. Subwoofer Connection:
Follow the steps in “Step 2” except use the positive (+) and
negative (-) indicators for “Bridge Mode” as shown on the
text printed below the Euroblock connector on the MP500
chassis.
*Stereo and Bridge mode cannot be used simultaneously*
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
COAX
L
SUB
4. Input Connection(s):
Connect Analog sources using RCA cables. Connect Digital
sources using a Digital Coax or Optical cable. When being
used to drive a subwoofer, connect the subwoofer out of
your source device to the subwoofer input on the MP500.
If using the digital inputs, you must select Coax or Optical
using the DIP switch on the back of the MP500 (#10 on the
image on page 8).
5. Power Connection:
Insert a power cord into the MP500’s AC input. Plug the
cord into a wall outlet. Make sure to respect the voltage
rating shown beside the AC receptacle.
6. Volume Control:
The MP500 has an onboard volume control if needed. How-
ever, typically the MP500 will be used with a source that of-
fers its own volume control (like a streaming device or used
with an AV Receiver when driving a subwoofer). In this case
the MP500’s onboard volume control can eectively be used
as a basic volume limiter instead. When being used in this
manner, you can set the MP500’s volume control to max-
imum, and then control the overall volume through your
source. If audible distortion occurs, turn down the volume
control on the MP500 until the sound no longer distorts.

9
2. CONNECTIONS AND BACK PANEL CONTROLS
2.1 SPEAKER CONNECTIONS
Depending on the level of the input signal, the
voltage at the outputs can be high enough to cause
electric shock — be sure that power is o when
connecting or disconnecting anything. As well, be
sure to use speakers rated for use with this MP500
— an overdriven speaker can pose a re hazard.
MP500 oers options to power either a stereo pair of speakers
(or a system like the MartinLogan Outdoor Living Foundation
8.1 System), or a passive subwoofer (custom install subwoofer.)
When powering a custom installation subwoofer, the MP500 can
be congured in “bridged mode” which combines the output of
both amplier channels in order to provide this speaker with
more power.
2.2 CONNECTING STEREO SPEAKERS
(or MartinLogan Outdoor Living Foundation 8.1 System)
Connect a pair of speakers to the MP500 using a Euroblock
(also known as a PhoenixTM) connector. These connectors are
included with the MP500 and come preinstalled.
Euroblock connectors accept speaker wire up to 12 gauge. Use
speakers as low as 4 Ohms in this conguration.
1. Remove the Euroblock connector from the MP500 by
gently pulling it until it releases.
2. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each
contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.
3. Connect the red (+) connection on the left speaker to
the positive (L+) contact on the Euroblock connector as
indicated by the printing located on the MP500 (above
the connector) or on the connector itself.
4. Connect the black (-) connection on the left speaker to
the negative (L-) contact on the Euroblock connector as
indicated by the printing located on the MP500 (above
the connector) or on the connector itself.
5. Repeat for the right channel.
6. After attaching speaker wires to the Euroblock connector,
insert it into the MP500 by gently pressing it into place.
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
COAX
L
R L

10
2.3 CONNECTING A PASSIVE
(NON-POWERED) SUBWOOFER
This mode only supports subwoofers rated at 8 Ohms or
higher. Bridged Mode increases the amplier power available
for a single speaker. This function is designed for passive
subwoofers that require external amplication and can be
enabled using the below method:
1. Remove the Euroblock connector from the MP500 by
gently pulling it until it releases.
2. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each
contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.
3. Connect the red (+) connection of the subwoofer to
the positive (Bridge Mode +) contact on the Euroblock
connector as indicated by the printing located on the
MP500 (below the connector).
4. Connect the black (–) connection of the subwoofer to
the negative (Bridge Mode -) contact on the Euroblock
connector as indicated by the printing located on the
MP500 (below the connector).
5. After attaching subwoofer wires to the Euroblock connector,
insert it into the MP500 by gently pressing it into place.
2.4 CONNECTING DUAL DYNAMO IW
SUBWOOFERS
For maximum performance, MartinLogan recommends using
an MP500 for each subwoofer in the system. When running
2 subwoofers from a single amplier is required, the MP500
can drive dual subs in a “bridged parrallel” conguration.
Note: This conguration is only recommended with
MartinLogan Dynamo IW subwoofers and you must use
the “Dual Subwoofer DSP Preset Proles” as outlined in
theDSPProleSection.
1. Remove the Euroblock connector from the MP500 by gen-
tly pulling it until it releases.
2. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each
contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.
3. Connect the red (+) connection of each subwoofer to
the positive (Bridge Mode +) contact on the Euroblock
connector as indicated by the printing located on the
MP500 (below the connector).
4. Connect the black (-) connection of each subwoofer to
the negative (Bridge Mode -) contact on the Euroblock
connector as indicated by the printing located on the
MP500 (below the connector).
5. After attaching subwoofer wires to the Euroblock connector,
insert it into the MP500 by gently pressing it into place.
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
COAX
L
SUB
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
COAX
L
SUBSUB
Bridge +: Connect to + on both subwoofers.
Bridge -: Connect to - on both subwoofers.

11
2.5 DIGITAL INPUT
Stereo digital audio sources can be connected using coaxial
or optical cables. The MP500 has one digital optical input, and
one digital coaxial input. Both of these inputs support the
PCM stereo format (up to 24-bit / 96kHz). If using sources that
have an option for selecting between PCM and Bitstream (or
Dolby Digital) audio output, select PCM. If the source outputs
a non-PCM stream (such as a Dolby or DTS stream), the audio
will mute.
Using the DIP switch on the back of the MP500 (See image on
Pg. 7) you can select either the Coax or Optical inputs, but only
1 may be used at a time.
2.6 ANALOG INPUTS
Connect stereo analog sources using RCA cables.
2.7 SUBWOOFER INPUT
The MP500 has multiple subwoofer preset congurations to
simplify connection to an AV Receiver or AV Preamp (or source
component) with a subwoofer output. Connect the subwoofer
output of your preamp/processor/source using an RCA cable
to either the Analog RCA (R — right), Analog RCA (L — left),
or Subwoofer Input. The Analog RCA (R — right), Analog RCA
(L — left) inputs will pass through a low-pass lter before being
passed to the amplier. The Subwoofer Input signal is passed
directly to the amplier. If needed, all three RCA inputs can be
used simultaneously.
2.8 POWER
Insert a power cord into the MP500’s AC input. Plug the cord
into a wall outlet. Ensure that the AC supply matches the
voltage rating shown on the back of the MP500.
2.9 TRIGGER CONNECTIONS
The trigger connection allows the MP500 to be turned on or
o via the trigger input. When the Trig In 3.5mm (1/8”) mini-
jack receives power (5–24 volts DC or AC) from an upstream
component, the MP500 turns on (Auto-On delay applies). When
it stops receiving power, the MP500 turns o immediately. The
Trig Out jack allows you to run a cable out to daisy-chain and
trigger additional MP500’s or another component that uses a
trigger in. The trigger out on the MP500 passes through the
signal received from the trigger input.
2.10 MASTER POWER SWITCH
This switch is wired directly to the AC mains and turns on and
o all power going to the MP500.
2.11 USB CONNECTION
A USB connection is present for updating the DSP presets
available on the amplier. Instructions for updating the
DSP presets will be provided with the DSP Update le. This
connection can otherwise be ignored.
2. CONNECTIONS AND BACK PANEL CONTROLS

12
3. DSP PRESETS
The MP500 is loaded with a variety of DSP presets to both
improve performance of the speaker, but also to protect it
from being overdriven by the amplier.
DSP preset availability will change over time, and can be
updated via the USB connection on the back of the amplier.
For the most up to date list of presets, please refer to the
MP500 product page on martinlogan.com.
Using the bank of dip switches on the back of the amplier you
may choose from the following DSP preset options:
3.1 DIP Switch Functionality
Pin1: SPDIF select. Optical/Coaxial
Pins 2-5: 16 groups of EQ presets
ex: Pins 2-6: 00000=EQ0
ex: Pins 2-6: 10000=EQ16
ex: Pins 2-6: 11111=EQ31
3.2 DSP PRESET DIP SWITCH POSITIONS
MP500 ships in its Flat EQ, 2 Channel, Full Range, Stereo output
mode. To view the most up to date list of custom DSP Preset
options available, please visit the MP500 product page on
martinlogan.com: www.martinlogan.com/en/product/mp500
The rmware update section of this page will always contain
the latest DSP Preset list and the DSP/Firmware update le.
Updating your MP500’s DSP/Firmware is easily done using
a Windows PC and a commonly available Micro USB cable
(Not Included) by following the instructions posted with the
update le.

13
4. FAULT MODES
4.1 FRONT PANEL POWER LED
Power LED Status or Fault
Blue On
Red Standby or Fault
O No AC power
4.2 FRONT PANEL ZONE LEDS
Power LED Stereo LED Subwoofer LED Status or Fault Clear Fault
Blue O — MP500 enabled, no music detected. —
Blue Blue — Stereo operation: MP500 enabled, music playing. —
Blue — o MP500 enabled, no music detected. —
Blue — Blue Subwoofer operation:
MP500 enabled, music playing.
—
Blue Red ashing — AMP fault. over current / DC Fault. /
Stereo operation.
Self-recovery
Blue Blue ashing — AMP over temp. Stereo operation. Self-recovery
Blue Red — AMP mute. When AMP temp over upper limit.
Stereo operation.
Self-recovery
Red Red — Power supply over current.
Stereo operation.
To clear this fault condition, cycle the power
by turning o AC power. Wait 1 minute before
turning the MP500 back on.
Blue — Red ashing AMP fault. over current / DC Fault.
Subwoofer operation.
Self-recovery
Blue — Blue ashing AMP over temp. Subwoofer
operation.
Self-recovery
Blue — Red AMP mute. When AMP temp over upper limit.
Subwoofer operation.
Self-recovery
Red —Red Power supply over current.
Subwoofer operation.
To clear this fault condition, cycle the power
by turning o AC power. Wait 1 minute before
turning the MP500 back on.
Blue / Red — — Software error. Initialization error.(DSP/Codec
failure).
To clear this fault condition, cycle the power
by turning o AC power.
Red — — Standby —
MP500
POWER STEREO SUB

14
5. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Whatisthedierencebetweenthestereoanaloginputs
and the subwoofer input?
The Subwoofer Input
• This input connects to the subwoofer output of an AV pro-
cessor or AV receiver with bass-management functions as
part of its signal routing. It is only active when a subwoofer
speaker preset is selected.
The Analog RCA (R — right) and Left (L — left) Inputs
• With a subwoofer speaker preset, the Analog RCA (R —
right) and Left (L — left) inputs allow a stereo signal source
to drive a subwoofer without the voices or other high-
frequency content being heard through the subwoofer.
This preset enables the subwoofer to be connected to
these inputs even when the signal source contains a full
range of information. This preset is ideal when the source
equipment does not have built-in bass management.
• With a Stereo Speaker Preset, the full range signals play
through the main speakers.

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6. SPECIFICATIONS
MP500
Warranty 2 Years (Parts and Labor)
Channels 2 Channels
Power Output Per Channel
(8 Ohm)
140 Watts
Power Output Per Channel
(4 Ohm)
250 Watts
High Output Mode (Bridged)
Per Channel (8 Ohm)
500 Watts
Frequency Response 20Hz – 20kHz +1/-3dB (when set to preset 0)
Analog Audio Inputs 1 RCA Pair (Left/Right)
1 RCA Subwoofer
Digital Audio Inputs 1 Optical
1 RCA Coax
12V Trigger Controls 1 Input 3.5mm
1 Pass-Through Connector 3.5mm
Speaker Level Outputs Removable Phoenix™ Style (Left/Right) Accommodate Wire Up to 12AWG
Firware Update Port Micro-USB Connector
Back Panel Controls Main Power Switch (On/O)
Volume Control (Min/Max)
Preset Prole Selection (Dip Switches Position 2 Through 6) (32 Presets)
Coax or Optical Selection (Dip Switch Position 1)
AC Voltage 120V-240VAC at 50-60Hz
Maximum Power Draw 500 Watts
Standby Power Less than 0.5 Watts
Rack Mount Ears / Feet Included
Rack Space (feet removed) 1U Height x 1/2 Width
Dimensions (H x W x D, with feet,
no rack mount ears)
2.17” x 8.5” x 12.5” (5.5 x 21.6 x 31.8 cm)
Weight 7.22 lb (3.28kg)
Specications are subject to change.

16
7. LIMITED WARRANTY
SERVICE
Should you be using your MartinLogan product in a country
other than the one in which it was originally purchased, we ask
that you note the following:
1. The appointed MartinLogan distributor for any given
country is responsible for warranty servicing only on units
distributed by or through it in that country in accordance
with its applicable warranty.
2. Should a MartinLogan product require servicing in a coun-
try other than the one in which it was originally purchased,
the end user may seek to have repairs performed by the
nearest MartinLogan distributor, subject to that distribu-
tor’s local servicing policies, but all cost of repairs (parts,
labor, transportation) must be born by the owner of the
MartinLogan product.
3. If, after owning your MP500 for six months, you relocate
to a country other than the one in which you purchased
your MP500, your warranty may be transferable. Contact
MartinLogan for details.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Thank you for purchasing a MartinLogan product. All Martin-
Logan products meeting the conditions set forth here are eli-
gible to receive the Limited Warranty. Please retain your sales
receipt for proof of warranty terms and proof of purchase
from an authorized MartinLogan dealer or distributor in the
United States or Canada. Please register your purchase on the
Online Warranty Registration system (https://www.martinlo-
gan.com/register) on MartinLogan.com.
Limited Warranty and Duration
MartinLogan, Ltd. warrants the product designated herein to
be free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship,
subject to the conditions and for a period set forth below. This
Warranty expires on the anniversary of the date of delivery. The
Limited Warranty period on MartinLogan products is as follows:
• Five (5) Years — Floorstanding, bookshelf, and on-wall
speakers;
• Five (5) Years — On-wall, in-wall, and in-ceiling speakers;
• Three (3) Years — Powered subwoofers;
• Three (3) Years — Outdoor Living Series satellite speakers
and subwoofers;
•
Two (2) Years — Installer Series outdoor/all-weather speakers;
• Two (2) Years — Soundbars, separate power ampliers
and pre-ampliers, and fully powered speakers;
• One (1) Year — Headphones.
HowcanyoubesuretondacurrentauthorizedMartinLo-
gan Dealer?
Only dealers found on the following pages are current autho-
rized MartinLogan dealers. Goods purchased from any entity
not found on these lists list are not entitled to MartinLogan
Limited Warranty coverage:
• Authorized Online Dealers
https://www.martinlogan.com/locator
• Authorized United States Dealers
https://www.martinlogan.com/locator
• Authorized Canadian Dealers
https://www.martinlogan.com/locator
What is required for the Limited Warranty of MartinLogan
products?
• Purchase of a new MartinLogan product from an autho-
rized MartinLogan dealer or distributor in the United
States or Canada;
• A copy of the original receipt of sale from an authorized
MartinLogan dealer or distributor in the United States or
Canada.
Limitations
• Warranty begins on the date of delivery;
• A copy of the original sales receipt from an authorized
MartinLogan dealer or distributor in the United States or
Canada is required for any warranty work;
• This Warranty is for the sole benet of the original purchaser
of the covered product, is restricted to the original purchas-
er, and requires the purchase of a new product;
• This warranty is not transferable to a subsequent pur-
chaser of the product;
• Warranty applies to product in normal home use only. If
product is subjected to any conditions outlined in the next
section, warranty is void;
• Warranty does not apply if the product is used in profes-
sional or commercial applications.
The Warranty is Void or Inapplicable if:
• The product was not purchased from an authorized Martin-
Logan dealer or distributor in the United States or Canada;
• The serial number has been removed or defaced;
• The product has been used or handled other than in ac-
cordance with the instructions in the owner’s manual;
• The product has been used in conjunction with unsuitable
or faulty equipment;
• The product has been abused or misused, damaged by
accident or neglect, or in being transported;
• The defect is due to the product being repaired or tam-
pered with by anyone other than MartinLogan or an au-
thorized MartinLogan repair center.

17
Owner Responsibilities:
• Provide normal/reasonable operating care and mainte-
nance;
• Prior to returning a product to MartinLogan for repairs
covered by the Limited Warranty, the dealer from whom
the speaker was purchased should rst be contacted to
see if they can resolve the issue;
• If a product is returned to MartinLogan for warranty work:
o The product must be properly packaged and shipped
to Martinlogan or an authorized MartinLogan repair
center by the customer at his or her sole expense;
o The product must be accompanied by an RMA num-
ber, obtained from the MartinLogan service depart-
ment ([email protected]);
o The product must be accompanied by a written
description of the defect and proof of the date of
purchase in the form of a copy of the original sales
receipt from an authorized MartinLogan dealer or
distributor.
Warranty Outside of the United States and Canada
This warranty applies only to purchases made from authorized
MartinLogan dealers and distributors in the United States and
Canada. For warranty terms, conditions, and support else-
where, please contact the authorized MartinLogan distributor
in the country where your purchase was made. Warranty out-
side the US and Canada is established and provided by autho-
rized MartinLogan distributors around the world.
Refurbished Products Warranty Information
MartinLogan refurbished products may be lightly pre-owned,
demonstration, test products, or factory closeouts that have
undergone rigorous inspection to ensure they meet MartinLo-
gan’s strict quality standards for both sonic performance and
mechanical integrity. We back every refurbished product with
a Refurbished product warranty.
Our refurbished products are packaged in factory packaging,
complete with all documentation and where applicable, the
accessories that normally ship with the product. On occasion,
refurbished products may contain minor cosmetic blemishes,
but will sonically perform to our industry leading full perfor-
mance standards.
Each refurbished product:
• Has undergone rigorous inspections to ensure it meets
our strict quality standards.
• Is put through full testing to guarantee optimal sonic per-
formance and mechanical integrity.
• Is supplied with complete documentation.
• Is supplied with a one (1) year non-cosmetic warranty
(Headphones oer a 30 day warranty).
• Where applicable, is supplied with cables, remote control
and accessories.
• Where applicable, rmware is updated to the latest version.
• Is given a new refurbished serial number.
• Comes in factory product packaging with a “Refurbished”
label.
• May have minor cosmetic blemishes.
Remedy
In the event the product fails during the warranty period and
the above conditions are met, the purchaser’s sole remedy
under this Warranty shall be to return the product to Martin-
Logan or an authorized MartinLogan repair center where the
defect will be rectied without charge for parts or labor.
Conditions
MartinLogan reserves the right to modify the design of any
product without obligation to purchaser of previously manu-
factured products and to change the prices or specications of
any product without notice or obligation to any person.
Exclusions
Any implied warranties relating to the above product shall be
limited to the duration of the above Warranty. This Warranty
does not extend to any incidental or consequential costs or
damages to the purchaser. Some states do not allow limita-
tions on how long an implied warranty lasts or an exclusion
or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This
Warranty gives you specic legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state. This Warranty
represents a limited warranty as per denition by the Federal
Trade Commission (Magnuson-Moss Act).

18
8. THE BIG PICTURE: MP500
MP500
POWER STEREO SUB
OPTICAL
PASS-
THROUGH
TRIG IN
MIN MAX
OPTICAL
PC
UPDATE
EQ
120-240VAC at 50-60Hz 500W
INPUT
VOLUME
MP500
BRIDGE MODE
–+
–R+
–+
SUB
COAX
F 8A H 250V
L
R
L

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