Polk Audio PA200.4 User manual

ENGLISH
Polk Audio-A Passion for Sound
Please take a moment and read through this manual before
you get started. Installing a car audio system is a serious
project. If you have any doubts about your ability to execute
any of the installation steps found in this manual. save
yourself a lot of grief and contact your local authorized
Polk Audio AutoSound dealer. He (or shel is a professional
installer and ready to help you get the most for your
autosound dollar.
More information-including audio how-to articles, FAQs,
and online manuals-is available on our award-winning
website www.polkaudio.com/car. And if you ever have a
question or comment, please feel free to call us or email
us. In North America and Canada, call Polk Audio Customer
Service 800-377-7655 (M-F, 9-6 EST) or via email
[email protected] Outside the US, call 410-358-3600.
We love to hear from you!
Here at Polk Audio, building loudspeakers and audio equip-
ment is more than just our business-it's our passion.
We're happy to share it with you.
Sincerely,
Matthew S. Polk
Co-Founder
FRANCAIS
Polk Audio-La passion du son
L'installation d'une chaine audiophonique dans un vehicule
est un projet d'envergure. Veuillez donc prendre Ie temps
de lire ce manuel attentivement avant de proceder. Si apres
avoir etudie les instructions contenues dans ce manuel vous
ne croyez pas avoir la competence necessaire pour installer
tous les composants de la chaine, contactez votre revendeur
agree Polk AutoSound. Les professionnels de Polk Auto
Sound sauront installer votre nouvelle chaine selon les
regles de I'art et vous permettront d'en profiter au maximum.
Pour plus d'information-incluant des conseils pratiques,
des FAQ et des manuels en ligne, visitez notre site web
prime: www.polkaudio.com/car. Si vous avez des questions
ou de commentaires, n'hesitez pas a contacter notre Service
a la Clientele-en Amerique du Nord et au Canada, par
telephone au: 800-377-7655 (L-V, 9-18 HE) ou par courriel
a: [email protected]. A I'exterieur des E.U., signalez
Ie 410-358-3600.
Chez Polk Audio, la fabrication de haut-parleurs, d'enceintes
et de composants audio est beaucoup plus qu'une entreprise
commerciale-c'est une veritable passion. II nous fait plaisir
de la partager avec vous.
Cordialement,
Matthew S. Polk
Cofondateur
WWW.POLKAUDIO.COM/AMPS 3

ESPANOL
Polk Audio-Pasion por el Sonido
Lea todo este manual antes de comenzar. Instalar un sistema
de sonido de automovil es un proyecto serio. Si tiene dudas
sabre su capacidad de lIevar a cabo alguno de los pas as de
instalacion indicados en este manual, ahorrese problemas y
comunfquese can su distribuidor local autorizado Polk Audio
de son ida de automoviles. EI (0 ella) es un instalador profe-
sional preparado para ayudarle a usted a aprovechar al
maximo su dinero invertido en sonido de automovil.
Hay mas informacion (artfculos sabre procedimientos, pre-
guntas frecuentes y manuales en lineal en nuestro galardon-
ado sitio Web www.polkaudio.com. Y si alguna vez tiene
preguntas a comentarios, no dude en lIamarnos a escri-
birnos par correa electronico. En Estados Unidos y Canada,
comuniquese can el servicio al c1iente de Polk Audio lIaman-
do aI800-377-7655 (Iunes a viernes, de 9a 6, hora del
Este) a escribiendo un mensaje de correa electronico a
[email protected] Fuera de Estados Unidos y Canada,
lIame aI41O-358-3600. Nos encantaria saber de usted.
Aqui en Polk Audio, construir altavoces y equipos de son ida
es mas que una actividad comercial; es nuestra pasion.
Nos encanta compartirla can usted.
A tentamente,
Matthew S. Polk
Cofundador
4 PA 12V AMPLIFIERS
DEUTSCH
Polk Audio-Eine Leidenschaft fUr Sound
Lesen Sie sich bitte dieses Handbuch durch, bevor Sie anfan-
gen. Die Installation eines Audiosystems in ein Auto ist kein
Kinderspiel. Wenn Sie Zweifel haben, ob Sie einen der in
diesem Handbuch beschriebenen Installationsschritte aus-
fOhren kiinnen, sollten Sie sich Arger ersparen und Ihren
iirtlichen Polk Audio AutoSound-Fachhandler kontaktieren.
Er (oder sie) kennt sich mit der Installation aus und kann
Ihnen helfen, Ihre Audiosound-Investition optimal zu nutzen.
Weitere Information, darunter Audio-Anweisungen,
Antworten auf haufig gestellte Fragen und Online-
HandbUcher finden Sie auf der preisgekriinten Website
www.polkaudio.com/car. Wenn Sie je eine Frage oder
einen Vorschlag haben, kontaktieren Sie uns bitte per
Telefon oder E-Mail. In Nordamerika oder Kanada erreichen
Sie den Polk Audio-Kundendienst telefonisch unter 800-377-
7655 (M-F, 9-18 Uhr Ostklistenzeit) oder per E-Mail unter
[email protected]. Au!!'erhalb der USA rufen Sie
[phone] an. Wir freuen uns auf Ihren Anruf
l
Bei Polk Audio ist die Fertigung von Lautsprechern und
Audiogeraten mehr als unser Geschaft-es ist unsere
Leidenschaft. Wir freuen uns, diese Leidenschaft mit
Ihnen zu teilen.
Mit freundlichen Grli!!'en,
Matthew S. Polk
Mitbegrlinder

ITALIANO
Polk Audio-La Passione del Suono
Prima di cominciare, accertatevi di aver letto questa man-
uale. L'installazione di un impianto audio per auto e una
cosa seria. In caso di dubbi sull'esecuzione di alcune
delle fasi di installazione contenute in questo manuale, vi
invitiamo a rivolgervi subito al rappresentante Polk Audio
AutoSound autorizzato di zona. I nostri rappresentanti
sono installatori professionali a vostra disposizione
per farvi otten ere il massimo dal vostro investimento.
Ulteriori informazioni, tra cui articoli su apparecchiature
audio, domande frequenti e manuali online, sono disponibili
sui nostro premiato sito web, www.polkaudio.com/car. In
caso di domande 0 commenti, vi invitiamo a contattarci per
telefono 0 e-mail. In Nord America e Canada, chiamate iI
servizio Assistenza c1ienti Polk Audio al numero verde 800-
377-7655 (Iunedl-venerdl. 900-6:00 fuso orario della costa
orientalel 0 via e-mail [email protected].
Fuori degli Stati Uniti, chiamate il numero 001410-358-3600.
Apprezziamo i vostri commenti I
Alia Polk Audio, la creazione di altoparlanti e apparecchia-
ture audio e molto piu che la nostra attivita-e una pas-
sione! Siamo lieti di condividerla con voi.
Cordialmente,
Matthew S Polk
Co-Fondatore
PORTUGUES
Polk Audio-Paixao por Som
Reserve um pouco de tempo para ler este manual antes de
come~ar. A instala~ao de um sistema de audio de veiculo e
um projeto complexo Se tiver alguma duvida quanta a sua
capacidade de realizar qualquer uma das etapas de insta-
la~ao descritas neste manual, evite a frustra~ao e entre em
contato com 0 revendedor local autorizado pel a Polk Audio
para este tipo de instala~ao. a revendedor conta com instal-
adores profissionais prontos para ajuda-Io a maximizar seu
investimento em um sistema sonoro para veiculo.
Nosso website premiado contem informa~6es mais detal-
hadas, incluindo artigos informativos com procedimentos
passo a passo, perguntas frequentes e manuais eletr6nicos.
Para obter essas e outras informa~6es sobre audio, visite
www.polkaudio.com/car. E caso tenha alguma duvida ou
comentario, basta entrar em contato conosco por telefone
ou e-mail. Na America do Norte e no Canada, ligue para
o Departamento de Atendimento ao Cliente da Polk Audio
em [phone] (de segunda a sexta-feira, das 9:00 as
18:00, horario de Nova York) ou por e-mail pelo endere~o
[email protected]. Caso esteja em outro pars, ligue
para 1-410-358-3600. Adorariamos ouvir as suas opini6es!
Na Polk Audio, fabricar caixas acusticas e equipamentos
de audio e mais do que nosso neg6cio-e nossa paixao.
Ficamos felizes em compartilha-Ia com voce.
Atenciosamente,
Matthew S Polk
Co-fundador
WWW.POLKAUDIO.COM/AMPS 5

ENGLISH
WARNING
High-powered car audio systems may produce sound
pressure levels that exceed the threshold at which
hearing loss may result.
They may also impair a driver's ability to hear traffic
sounds or emergency vehicles. Use common sense and
practice safe listening habits when listening to or
adjusting your audio system.
FEATURES
• Super-efficient Class D PWM design runs much
cooler than conventional amps (PA 1100.5 only).
• High-speed MOSFET switching power supply
and complementary bi-polar outputs
• Stereo, mono, or simultaneous stereo/mono operation
• Thermal, DC offset, reverse polarity, (short circuit and
over/under voltage protection-PA5oo.4 and PA 1100.5)
• Selectable 12dB/octave two-way crossover (PA20oA)
• Continuously variable 12dB/octave low-pass crossover
(PA500.4 and PA 1100.5)
• Switchable subsonic filter 24dB/octave
(PA500A and PA 1100.5)
• Switchable 8 dB bass EO function.
• Switchable 180
0
phase inversion
(PA50o.4 and PA 11005)
• Remote subwoofer level control function
(PA5004 and PA 1100.5)
• Variable input sensitivity optimizes match
with different signal sources.
• Chrome-plated wire terminals and RCA
connectors ensure maximum signal transfer.
• Rugged heatsink and cover.
• Unity gain pass-through RCA jacks.
GETTING STARTED
Take Inventory
Check to ensure you have everything in your Polk Audio
amplifier carton to start enjoying your system. Inside,
you should find:
1. Polk Audio Amplifier
(either PA200A, PA5oo.4 or PA 1100.5)
2. Hex Key
3. Screws (4)
4. Mounting Washers (4)
5. Locking Washers (4)
6 PA 12V AMPLIFIERS
6. Rubber Washers (4)
7. Fuse Replacements
8. 4mm Allen Wrench
9. Wire Harness
10. Owner's Manual
11. Online Registration Card
12. Remote Volume Module - (PA50oA/PA 1100.5 only)
13. Phone Line Cord - (PA500A/PA 1100.5 only)
Important Note: If anything is missing or damaged, or if
your Polk Audio amplifier fails to operate, notify your dealer
immediately. We recommend keeping your original carton
and packing materials in case you need to ship the unit in
the future.
In the event that your amplifier requires service or is ever
stolen, you will need to have a record of the product's
serial number. Please take the time to enter that number
in the space provided below. The serial number can be
found on the bottom panel of the amplifier and on the
amplifier packaging.
Serial Number: _
Polk Audio Customer Service 800-377-7655
(M-F, 9-6 EST, US & Canada only) or via email
[email protected]. Outside the US &
Canada, call 410-358-3600. To learn more about
Polk Audio 12V amplifiers go to www.polkaudio.com
Polk Audio, Inc. 5601 Metro Drive Baltimore, MD 21215
READ THIS FIRST
Installing a car audio system is a serious project. If you have
any doubts about your ability to execute any of the installa-
tion steps found in this manual. save yourself a lot of grief
and contact a professional installer. Your Polk Audio dealer
is a good place to find one. If you intend to do the installa-
tion yourself we assume you possess some skill in the proper
use of hand and power tools. No matter how much installa-
tion experience you have, we recommend that you ...
•
Read this manual thoroughly before you begin.
• Plan your installation carefully.
• Allow enough time to complete the installation
without rushing.
• Take steps to protect your car and upholstery
from unwanted scratches and punctures.
• Wear proper protective safety gear.

Tools You May Need
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Panel pry tool
• Electric drill and 3/16' and 1/8' drill bits
• Permanent ink marker or pencil
• Solderless, crimp-on connectors and a crimping tool
• Safety glasses
• Wire strippers and cutters
• Electrical tape
• Grommets for passing wires through metal car walls
• Amplifier Power Wire Kit (available at your authorized
Polk Audio Dealer)
SAFE LIMITS OF OPERATION
Polk Audio specifies the recommended amplification
range for each of its passive (non-amplified) loudspeakers.
Typi-cally that specification will be expressed as a range
of power such as 20-200 Watts (per channel). It is important
to understand what those numbers mean when choosing
a receiver or amplifier for your Polk loudspeakers. The lower
number indicates the lowest continuous rated power that
will yield acceptable performance in a typical listening
environment The higher number indicates the highest
per channel power that should be used with your Polk
speakers. That number should not be confused with a
"Power Handling" specification and it does not imply that
the speaker will safely handle that full amount of power
on a long-term basis. We specify a wide range of power
ratings because not all electronics manufacturers use the
same method for rating power. In fact. high quality lower-
rated amplifiers sound better and play louder than low
quality units with higher power rating.
Automobile horsepower is good analogy. Your car probably
has far more horsepower than it needs for your daily com-
mute and is likely capable of going well over 120 MPH
(190KM/hr) Having that extra power is good for on-ramp
acceleration and danger avoidance (like getting away from
brain-eating zombies) but that doesn't mean that it is advis-
able to operate your car on North American highways at
full power and maximum speed for an extended period of
time. Just ask your local state trooper if you are in doubt
Similarly, we recommend using amplifiers and receivers
with rated power above the Power Handling limits of our
speakers because having extra power available for short
terms peaks is conducive to better sound quality, maximum
dynamic range and effortless high volume output But we
strongly urge you not to use the full power of your amp or
receiver for daily listening.
ENGLISH
Loudspeakers can be damaged when an amplifier, regard-
less of its wattage, is made to play at higher listening levels
than its power can clearly produce. Operation at this level
can result in very high levels of audible distortion originating
in the amplifier, which can add a harsh, gritty sound to your
listening material. If you hear distortion-turn the vol-
ume down or risk damaging your speakers. You can
damage just about any speaker, regardless of power rating,
if you drive an amplifier to or beyond the point of distortion.
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
1. Please read this owner's manual carefully before
installing this amplifier.
2. Disconnect the battery ground terminal prior
to making any electrical connections.
3. Check for any hazards or obstructions such as gas
tanks, fuel or brake lines, and wiring harnesses before
mounting the amplifier.
4. Pick a mounting location that will provide adequate
access and ventilation and protect the amplifier from
heat. moisture, and dirt.
5. To securely mount your amplifier you must first remove
the top cover assembly. Unscrew the four (4) top cover
assembly retaining screws using the supplied 4mm
Allen Wrench.
6. Avoid sharp metal areas when routing cables to the
amplifier, and run RCA cables away from the power
cables and other potentially noisy car harnesses.
7. The amplifier should be grounded with a short, heavy
gauge wire connected directly to the car at a bare metal
surface, preferably scraped body sheet metal. Do not
use factory ground locations, seat bolts, or brackets
that are spot welded.
8. Always fuse your power connection within 8 to 10 inches
of the battery terminal. Use a fuse or circuit breaker rated
slightly more than the on-board fuse(s) of the amplifier(s).
The gauge of power wire used should take into account
the total current draw of the system, and the length of
wire used. IASCA and other auto sound competition
organizations have charts available for this; you can
also find a chart in the MECP study guide. Minimum
wire gauge recommendations for the individual ampli-
fiers are listed on the specification page. Always use
the same gauge wire for the amplifier ground that you
use for the power wire. Be sure to examine the battery
ground cable of the vehicle, and if necessary, upgrade
it by adding an additional ground wire that is the same
gauge as the amplifier's power wire. Remember, the
amplifier can only deliver its rated output when it is not
current limited by the power and ground supply wires.
9. This amplifier is designed to drive a speaker load that
measures from 2 to 8 Ohms (1 Ohm on the PA 1100.5
Sub Output). Keep in mind that heat is the long-term
WWW.POLKAUDIO.COM/AMPS 7

enemy of automotive electronics and the lower your
speaker load, the more heat is generated. For low-
impedance speaker applications or restricted ventilation
installations, an external cooling fan may be advisable.
10. Battery and ground connections to the vehicle should
be made with crimped ring terminals of the appropriate
size (surface area is what counts;) soldering the termi-
nals after crimping is also recommended.
11. Due to the high-frequency MOSFET switching power
supply, filtering the power cable is not generally required
(remember that the amp can't deliver full output if the
power supply is restricted). Proper grounding of the
signal source is mandatory for the amplifier to reach
its performance peak. If the RCA inputs are not grounded
adequately via the signal source, electrical noise from
the vehicle may be picked up in the system.
FIGURE 1-AMPLIFIER CONNECTIONS/CONTROLS-FRONT (PA200.4)
PA200.4
@
0000
o 00000
000000
FRONT PANEL CONNECTIONS/CONTROLS
1. RCA InputJacks-Accepts line level outputs from
head units or signal processors at voltages between
250mV and 7.5 volts. (The PA500A and PA 1100.5
also have a Rear Input)
2. RCA Line Output Jacks-These pass-through
RCA jacks can be used to send the input signal
to a second amplifier.
3. Line Out Switch (PA1100.5~three positions:
sum LJR-Ieft front and rear and right front and
rear channels are summed.
sub L+R-set the switch to this position when
using an additional PA600.1 amplifier connected
in Parallel mode.
sub 1SD-set the switch to this position when
using an additional PA600.1 amplifier connected
in External Bridge mode.
4. Gain Control-Controls the amplifier's sensitivity
and is used to match the input level of the amplifier
to the output level of the signal source (front and
rear on PA500A and PA 1100.5)
5. Subsonic Switch-The OFF position takes the filter
out of the system. the IN position places the filter into
the system (PA 1100.5)
6. Sub Gain- Subwoofer channel gain adjustment
7. Bass EO Switch-Adds 8dB additional bass boost
(pA200A and PA5004) Allows 8db additional bass
boost on the sub channel (PA 11005).
8 PA 12V AMPLIFIERS
0000 @
00000 0
000000
8. X-Over Selection Switch (HPF, Flat, LPF~
The HPF attenuates low frequencies and is used
with mid-range speakers and tweeters. Flat does
not attenuate any frequencies and is for full range
speaker systems. LPF attenuates high frequencies
and is used for subwoofers.
9. X-Over Frequency-adjusts the crossover point
(50-500Hz) for the on-board active crossover
(PA500A and PA 1100.5).
10. Remote-Optional accessory which allows the level
to be adjusted remotely (usually located for control
by the vehicle's driver). (PA5004 and PA 1100.5)
11. LPF ControI(PA1100.5~Sets high frequency limit
of subwoofer channel.
12. LED/FAN-Allows connection of an optional LED
light bar or optional cooling fan for the amplifier.
13. Status LED-Will illuminate GREEN to indicate the
amplifier is on and operating normally, and will be
illuminated RED if the amplifier shuts down due to
short circuit, DC offset. or overheating detected by
onboard protection circuitry.
14. Sub Inpuf/line Out-selects RCA jacks (4) (Sub/
Line Out) as either Subwoofer Input or Line Output
(PA11005).
15. Input Mode Switch-Selects 2 or 4 channel
operation (PA200A and PA5004).

ENGLISH
FIGURE 1a-AMPLIFIER CONNECTIONS/CONTROLS-FRONT (PA500.4/PAll00.5)
PA500.4
@ 0000
o0 0 0 0 a1100 ~CI1 QO<
o00000 FRONT RfAR FRONT
PA1100.5
@
FIGURE 1b-
REMOTE (PA500.4/PAll00.5)
Remote-Controls the subwoofer amplifier gain,
from a remote location for ease of adjustment
during listening.
FIGURE 2-LED/FAN HARNESS
REMOTE
....... f---@)
........ ~-- Phone Line Cord
o0 ........ ~- Remote Volume Module
~ BLACK
l:J~========:~~~~;=K============:=J=~= ~ :: :::'
WWW.POLKAUDIO.COM/AMPS 9

REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS
1. Fuses-These fuses protect the amplifier against
internal electrical damage and are meant to protect
the amplifier only. All other power connections should
be fused at the source. The PA200.4 uses 1-30A fuse,
the PA500.4 uses 2-40A fuses and the PA 100.5 uses
3-40A fuses.
2. (+) 12 Volt Power-Connect this terminal through
a FUSE or CIRCUIT BREAKER to the positive terminal
of the vehicle battery or the positive terminal of an
isolated audio system battery.
WARNING: Always protect this power wire by install-
ing a fuse or circuit breaker of the appropriate size
within 12 inches of the battery terminal connection.
3. Remote Turn On-This terminal turns on the amplifier
when (t) 12 volt is applied to it. Connect it to the remote
turn on lead of the head unit or signal source.
4. Ground-Connect this terminal directly to the sheet
metal chassis of the vehicle, using the shortest wire
necessary to make this connection. Always use wire
of the same gauge or larger than the (t) 12 volt power
wire. The chassis connection point should be scraped
free of paint and dirt. Use only quality crimped and/or
soldered connectors at both ends of this wire. DO NOT
connect this terminal directly to the vehicle battery
ground terminal or any other factory ground points.
5. Speaker Tenninals-Connect subwoofers to these
terminals. (Refer to the Speaker Wiring Diagrams
section of this guide.)
FIGURE 3-AMPLIFIER CONNECTIONS-REAR (PA200.4/PA500.4/PA1100.5)
PA200.4
@
0000
o 00000
000000
PA500.4
PA1100.5
@
@ ~ ~ ~ ~ 0 on ~ @.@@I-+'::'='+~---+'='='+---t-?='+-~ 0 ~ ~~~ @
000000 000000
10 P A 1 2 V AMP L I FIE R S

ENGLISH
Rear
Left
+,
(Left)
Channel
--a
Q)
en
LJ
+
"-
co
Rear Right
(Right)
Channel
-~
FIGURE 4-SPEAKER WIRING DIAGRAMS (PA200.4)
Stereo Operation-2 Channel (top view)
+
+,
Left
Channel
~
-
LJ
Front
Q)
en
(Right)
LJ
~
"-
+
co
Right
Channel
-~
+
+,
Left
Channel
~
Rear
LJ
Q)
en
(Left)
LJ
~
"-
+
co
Right
Channel
-~
Stereo Operation~ Channel (top view)
+
+,
Front
Left
(Left)
Channel
-
LJ
Q)
en
--a
"-
+
co
Front
Right
(Right)
Channel
-~
WWW.POLKAUDIO.COM/AMPS 11

FIGURE 4-SPEAKER WIRING DIAGRAMS (PA200.4)
Passive Tri-Mode (top view)
Inductor
NOTE: Consult your loudspeaker manufacturer
for recommended inductor and capacitor values.
+
Cap
+1
Left
Channel
-""Cl
Q)
Front
0)
""Cl
"-
Cap
+
co
Right
Channel
-~
Cap
+1
Left
Channel
""Cl
Rear
Q)
0)
""Cl
Cap
"-
+
co
Right
Channel
-~
2 Channel Stereo with Mono Sub
(top view) with active crossovers
+
+1
Sub
Left
Channel
~
-""Cl
Q)
0)
""Cl
~
+
"-
co
Right
Channel
-~
+
+1
Rear
Left
(Left)
Channel
""Cl
Q)
0)
""Cl
+
"-
co
Rear
Right
(Right)
Channel
-~
12 P A 1 2 V AMP L I FIE R S

ENGLISH
FIGURE 4-SPEAKER WIRING DIAGRAMS (PA500.4)
Stereo Operation (top view)
+
+
Left
Channel
Right
Channel
+r------------H
Bridged Operation (top view)
"-
+ co
~
Right 1-~_--1
Channel
Left
t----i
Channel
+
NOTE: The PA500A amplifier connections are the same
as shown above, except that there are outputs for Front
and Rear Speakers.
www. POL K A U 0 I 0 . COM / AMP S13

FIGURE 4-SPEAKER WIRING DIAGRAMS (PA11 00.5)
+
+
Channel 1 Front
Channel 2 Front
+r----------__+_4
Front/Rear Operation (top view)
+
+
Channel 3 Rear
Channel 4 Rear
+r-----------+-i
Front/Rear Bridged Operation (top view)
+,
Channel 1
(S)
-
--0
Q.)
OJ
--0
(S)
.....
+
CD
Channel 2
-~
Front
+
+
+,
Rear
Channel 3
(S)
- --0
Q.)
OJ
--0
(S)
.....
+
CD
Channel 4
-~
14 PA 1 2 V AMP L I FIE R S

ENGLISH
FIGURE 4-SPEAKER WIRING DIAGRAMS (PA1100.5)
Subwoofer Opera In (top view)
(S)
Channel 1
(S)
(S)
Channel 2!
(S)
.........
Subwoofer
/'
(S)
Channel 3
(S)
(S)
Channel 4
(S)
+,
- -0
Q)
OJ
-0
+ co
-~
SUB +
+,
- -0
Q)
OJ
-0
+~
-~
SU B -
CROSSOVER SETTINGS
AND GAIN ADJUSTMENT
Your Polk Audio power amplifier needs to be adjusted
carefully to achieve maximum performance. These are
some guidelines to follow when fine-tuning the amplifier.
• For full-range and simultaneous stereo/mono bass
applications, the crossover selection switch should
be set to FULL If the amplifier is driving your sub-
woofers, set the switch to LOW, and for mid-bassi
midrange output, set to HIGH.
• The crossover frequency control needs to be adjusted
to suit your particular system. For subwoofer appli-
cations, try and keep the setting low enough to prevent
image smearing (you should not be able to hear male
voices from the subwoofer) but not so low as to create
a gap between the subwoofer and the mid-bassi
midrange speakers. For mid-bass/midrange settings,
try to keep the setting low enough to keep your sound
stage in front of you, without overdriving the speaker.
It will be to your advantage to spend some extra time
with this adjustment, listening to familiar music or
system set-up discs to achieve the kind of musical
reproduction that you prefer.
• The gain adjustment allows you to set proper signal match
for clean, quiet amplifier operation. For full-range and
simultaneous stereo/mono bass applications, start
by playing some music you are familiar with. With the
gain adjustment on the amplifier in the middle of its
rotation, bring up the volume on your head unit to the
3/4 volume setting or until you start to hear distortion
or clipping. If you hear distortion before you reach the
3/4 volume setting of your head unit, reduce the gain
setting on the amplifier and start to raise the head unit
volume again. When you can listen to the music at or
slightly above 3/4 on your head unit without audible
distortion, slowly raise the gain of the amplifier until
distortion is heard, then back off the gain until the
distortion is not audible. This setting will allow you
to reach full output with all but the quietest of source
material, while avoiding excessive noise in the system.
NOTE: Polk amplifiers use a digital gain control with
a finite number of adjustment steps. A very small adjust-
ment may not cause any audible change in level.
www. POL K A U D I 0 . COM / AMP S : 15

LED TUBE INSTALLATION (OPTIONAL)
These Polk Audio amplifiers have been designed with
a custom heat sink that can accommodate two
(optional-not supplied) VARAD LED tubes.
1. Before installing the LED tubes, remove and discard
the mounting feet from the VARAD LED tubes.
2. Slide each LED tube assembly into your Polk Audio
amplifier heat sink. Ensure that the LEOs are facing
out for optimal visibility. The wires from the LEO tube
assembly should be on the signal input end of the
amplifier. The Black wire from the LEO tube is ground
and the Black/White wire from the LED tube is power.
3. Run the two wires from the tube assembly and
connect them to the 4-pin LED/FAN input connec-
tor. Refer to the LEO/FAN harness diagram given
earlier in this manual.
NOTE: If the optional fan IS NOT being used, we recom-
mend that the second LEO tube be wired to this circuit.
If the optional fan is being used, we recommend that the
second LED tube be wired in parallel with the first LEO tube.
CEA SPECIFICATIONS
SUBSONIC FILTER ADJUSTMENT
(PA1100.5 only)
This amplifier uses a subsonic filter to maximize the perfor-
mance of a subwoofer. The subsonic filter is a high-pass
filter that removes unwanted bass output at very low
frequencies form the woofer. This increases the output
of a subwoofer by as much as 3 dB by increasing the
mechanical power handling of the subwoofer. Depending
on the type of enclosure the subsonic filter can increase
the useable low frequency output by an additional1OdB!
Acceptable boost levels are determined by the type
of enclosure used, wattage of the amplifier, and the
subwoofer's excursion capability.
The following guidelines should be used for proper set
up of the subsonic filter to provide optimum performance
and reliability from your system.
•.
-~
o ~~
'l ......
PA200.4 Power Output: 45 Watts RMS x4 channels at 4 Ohms and ~ 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: -80 dBA (reference 1 Watt into 4 Ohms)
Additional Power: 50 Watts RMS x4 channels at 2 Ohms and ~ 1% THD+N
PA500.4 Power Output: 90 Watts RMS x4 channels at 4 Ohms and ~ 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: -81 dBA (reference 1 Watt into 4 Ohms)
Additional Power: 125 Watts RMS x4 channels at 2 Ohms and ~ 1% THD+N
PA1100.5 Power Output: 80 Watts RMS x4 channels at 4 Ohms and ~ 1% THD+N
280 Watts RMS X1 channel at 4 ohms ~1 % THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: -80 dBA (reference 1 Watt into 4 Ohms)
Additional Power. 125 Watts RMS x4 channels at 2 Ohms ~ 1% THD+N
Additional Power Subchannel: 600Watts RMS x1 channel at 1 Ohm ~ 1% THD+N
16 P A 1 2 V AMP L I FIE R S

ENGLISH
SPECIFICA nONS
PA200.4 PA500.4
PA11DO.5
80W x4 200W x4 200W x4@2 Ohms
Dynamic Power Rating
@2 Ohms @2 Ohms
1200W x 1@1 Ohm
RMS Continuous Power
250W x2
1
DOW x2 250W x2
Bridged @4 Ohms
600W x 1@1 Ohm
RMS Continuous Power
125W x4
50W x4 125W x4
@2
Ohms
2
600W x 1@1 Ohm
RMS Continuous Power
80W x4
35W x4 90W x4
@4
Ohms!
280W xl
Conversion Efficiency
>66% @4 ohms >66% @4 ohms
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz 20Hz-20kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio >90dBA >98dBA >98dBA
Separation
65db @1 kHz 65db @1 kHz 65db @1 kHz
Damping Factor
>100 >150 >150
(>50 sub channel)
Crossover Type/Range
Switchable
2-way Butterworth
2-way Butterworth
high or low pass 50 to 500Hz
50 to 500Hz
Crossover Slope 12dB/octave 12dB/octave 12dB/octave
Bass Equalization
+8dB, centered
o to +8dB
o to +8dB
@40Hz
Subsonic Filter Variable
RCA Input/Output Jacks
2-channel in/2-channel
paralleled full range out
Input Impedance 20K ohms 20K ohms 20K ohms
Input Sensitivity
Variable from
Variable from
Variable from
250mV to 7.5V 250mV to 8V
250mV to 8V
Supply Voltage 10-16VDC 10-16VDC 10-16VDC
FusingfType 1x 30A 2x 40A
3x 40A
Minimum Cable Required
#10 #8 #8
Port Output (Optional Fan)
12V @ <200mA
12V@ <200mA
LED(Optional)
12V @ <200mA
1 RMS continuous power driven into 4 Ohms from 20 to 20,000 Hz @ 14.4VOC with less than 0.08% THO+N.
2 RMS continuous power driven into 2 Ohms from 20 to 20,000 Hz @ 14.4VOC with less than 0.15% THO+N
www. POL K A U D I 0 . COM / AMP S17

ENGLISH
ABOUT POLK AUDIO
Polk Audio is an award-winning designer and manufacturer
of high performance audio products and the largest audio
brand of Directed Electronics, Inc. (NASDAQ, DEIX) Founded
in 1972 by three Johns Hopkins University graduates, Polk
Audio holds over 50 patents for advances in loudspeaker
design and technology. Polk's products include loudspeakers
and electronic components for home, auto and mari ne appli-
cations, the first satellite radio home component tuner, the
world's first audiophile-grade active IP-addressable loud-
speaker, the first THX'" Ultra2 Certified in-ceiling loudspeak-
er, and !-Sonic"'-the first entertainment system to include
HD Radio';' XM Connect & Play capability and a DVD player.
Polk products are available through authorized specialist
consumer electronics retailers worldwide.
For more information and the location of a Polk retailer or
distributor in your area please visit www.polkaudio.com or
call us at 1-800-377-7655 IM-F, 9-6 EST, US & Canada
only). Outside of North America call [phone].
Polk Audio, Inc.
5601 Metro Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215
www.polkaudio.com
FRANCAIS
POLK AUDIO
Polk Audio est une compagnie specialisee dans la concep-
tion et la fabrication de produits audio de haute perfor-
mance. Elle est la marque de produits audio la plus impor-
tante de Directed Electronics, Inc. (NASDAQ, DEIX). Fondee
en 1972 par trois gradues de l'Universite Johns Hopkins,
Polk Audio detient plus de 50 brevets pour ses innovations
en technologie et design audio. Les produits Polk primes
comprennent des haut-parleurs et composants electroniques
pour la maison, I'automobile et Ie bateau, Ie premier syn-
toniseur radio satellite pour la maison, Ie premier haut-par-
leur actif de qualite audiophile adressable par IP, Ie premier
haut-parleur encastrable pour plafond certifie THX'" Ultra2,
et Ie premier systeme de loisir comprenant la Radio HD';'
la compatibilite au «XM Connect & Play)) et un lecteur
DVD Les produits Polk sont disponibles chez les revendeurs
agrees specialises dans la revente de composants electron-
iques pour consommateurs.
Pour plus d'information et I'adresse d'un revendeur
ou d'un distributeur Polk Audio dans votre region, visitez
www.polkaudio.com ou communiquez avec nous au
1-800-377-7655 IL.-V .• 9-18. HNE. Canada et t-U. seul).
A I'exterieur des E.-U. et du Canada, composez Ie
[phone]
Polk Audio. Inc.
5601 Metro Drive, Baltimore. MD 21215
www.polkaudio.com
78 PA 1 2 V AMP L I FIE R S
ESPANOL
ACERCA DE POLK AUDIO
Polk Audio es un fabricante y disefiador galardonado de pro-
ductos de sonido de alto rendimiento y la mayor marca de
sonido de Directed Electronics, Inc. (NASDAQ, DEIX). Polk
Audio fue fundada en 1972 por tres graduados de la Johns
Hopkins University y tiene mas de 50 patentes por avances
de disefio y tecnologfa de altavoces. Entre los productos de
Polk se encuentran los altavoces y componentes electr6nicos
para aplicaciones en el hogar, el autom6vil y la embarcaci6n,
el primer sintonizador componente residencial de radio por
satelite, el primer altavoz del mundo con direcci6n de protoco-
10 de Internet activo y calidad audi6fila, el primer altavoz
empotrado en cielo raso con certificaci6n THX'" Ultra2 y el
I-Sonic"', primer sistema de entretenimiento con capacidad
HD Radio@y XM Connect & Play y un reproductor de CD. Los
productos de Polk estan a su disposici6n a traves de minoris-
tas especialistas autorizados de productos electr6nicos para
el consumidor en todo el mundo.
Para obtener mas informaci6n y la ubicaci6n de un distribuidor
o minorista de Polk cerca de usted, visite www.polkaudio.com
o lIame al 800-377-7655 (Iunes a viernes, de 9a 6, hora
del Este. s610 Estados Unidos y Canada). Fuera de Estados
Unidos y Canada, lIame al 410-358-3600.
Polk Audio. Inc.
5601 Metro Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215
www.polkaudio.com
DEUTSCH
UBER POLK AUDIO
Polk Audio ist ein preisgekriinter Entwickler und Hersteller
von Hochleistungs-Audiogeriiten und die grii~te Audiomarke
von Directed Electronics, Inc. (NASDAQ, DEIX). Polk Audio
wurde 1972 von drei Absolventen der Johns Hopkins
University gegrUndet und besitzt mehr als 50 Patente fUr
Entwicklungen im Design und der Technologie von Laut-
sprechern. Die Produkte von Polk umfassen Lautsprecher und
elektronische Geriite fUr den Heim-, Auto-und Bootseinsatz,
den ersten Satellitenradio-Komponententuner fUr den
Heimgebrauch, den ersten audiophilen Aktivlautsprecher
der Welt mit IP-Adressierung, den ersten THX'" Ultra2-zerti-
fizierten Deckenlautsprecher und I-Sonic"'--das erste
Unterhaltungssystem mit HD Radio';' XM Connect & Play-
Fiihigkeit und einem DVD-Player. Polk-Produkte sind
weltweit Uber autorisierte Unterhaltungselektronik-
Fachhiindler erhiiltlich.
Weitere Informationen und den Standort eines Polk-Handlers
oder Vertriebs finden Sie unter www.polkaudio.com. oder
telefonisch unter 1-800-377-7655 1M-F. 9-18 Uhr
Ostkiistenzeit, nur USA und Kanada). Au~erhalb
Nordamerikas rufen Sie bitte [phone] an.
Polk Audio, Inc.
5601 Metro Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215
www.polkaudio.com

ITALIANO
INFORMAZIONI SU POLK AUDIO
Polk Audio e una premiata ditta che progetta e costruisce
prodotti audio ad alte prestazioni e la piu affermata marca
audio di Directed Electronics, Inc. (NASDAQ, DEIX) Fondata
ne11972 da tre studenti della Johns Hopkins University, Polk
Audio detiene oltre 50 brevetti ottenuti per miglioramenti
al design e alia tecnologia degli altoparlanti. I prodotti Polk
includono altoparlanti e componenti elettronici per la casa,
I'auto ed applicazioni nautiche, il primo sintonizzatore satel-
litare per componenti per uso domestico, il primo altopar-
lante al mondo can indirizzo IP attivo di tipo audiofilo, il
primo altoparlante asoffitto omologato THX'" UltraZ e
I-Sonic'", il primo sistema audiovisivo che include HD Radio~
funzionalita XM Connect & Play e un lettore di DVD.
I prodotti Polk sono disponibili in tutto il mondo presso
rivenditori autorizzati specializzati in elettronica.
Per ulteriori informazioni e per trovare un rivenditore 0 dis-
tributore Polk di zona, visitare www.polkaudio.com a chia-
mare il nostro numero verde 1-800-377-7655 (dallunedi
al venerdi dalle 9:00 aile 18:00, fuso orario della costa
orientale, solo USA e Canada). Fuori dal Nord America
chiamare il numero 001 410 358-3600.
Polk Audio, Inc.
5601 Metro Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215
www.polkaudio.com
Polk Audio is a Directed Electronics company which trades on
NASDAQ under the symool DEIX. Investor information can be
found at http://investordirected.com.
·Polk Audio· and ·I-Sonic· are registered trademarks of Britannia
Investment Corporation used under license by Polk Audio, Inc.
Polk Audio est une compagnie de la Directed Electronics inscrite
ilia NASDAQ sous Ie symoole DEIX. Pour des informations
ooursieres visitez: http://investordirected.com.
«Polk Audio» et «I-Soniol sont des marques de commerce enregistrees
de la Britannia Investment Corporation utilisees sous licence par
Polk Audio Inc.
Polk Audio es una empresa de Directed Electronics, la cual tiene opera-
ciones bursatiles en el fndice NASDAQ bajo el simoolo DEIX. Hay
informaci6n para inversionistas en http://investordirected.com.
·PolkAudio" y "'-Sonic· son marcas comerciales registradas de la
Britannia Investment Corporation que Polk Audio, Inc. usa bajo licencia.
PORTUGUES
SOBRE A POLK AUDIO
A Polk Audio e uma empresa que projeta e fabrica produtos
de audio de alto desempenho premiados, sendo a maior
marca de audio da Directed Electronics, Inc. (NASDAQ,
DEIX). Fundada em 1972 par tres formandos da Universidade
Johns Hopkins, a Polk Audio detem mais de 50 patentes por
avan~os realizados em projetos e tecnologias de caixas
acusticas. Entre as produtos da Polk estao caixas acusticas
e componentes eletr6nicos para aplica~6es residenciais,
automotivas e marftimas, a primeiro sintonizador de radio
via satelite para uso residencial, a primeira caixa acustica
do mundo com endere~o IP ativo e qualidade que satisfaz
ao mais exigente entusiasta de audio, a primeira caixa acus-
tica de teto com certifica~ao THX'" UltraZ, e0I-Sonic'"-
a
primeiro sistema de entretenimento a oferecer capacidade
para HD Radio~ XM Connect & Play e um toca-DVD.
as produtos da Polk estao disponfveis em lojas de varejo
que vendem produtos eletr6nicos especializados destinados
ao mercado consumidor no mundo inteiro.
Para obter mais informa~6es e localizar um revendedor
au distribuidor da Polk em sua area, visite 0 site
www.polkaudio.com au ligue para 1-800-377-7655
(de segunda a sexta-feira, da 9:00 as 18:00, horario
de Nova York, apenas nos EUA e Canada). Fora da
America do Norte, ligue para [phone].
Polk Audio, Inc.
5601 Metro Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215
www.polkaudio.com
Polk Audio ist ein Untemehmen der Directed Electronics-Gruppe,
die bei NASDAQ unter dem Symool DEIX gehandeit wird. nvestoren-
informationen finden Sie unter http://investordirected.com.
.PolkAudio" und .I-Sonic· sind eingetragene Marken der Britannia
Investment Corporation, die unter Lizenz von Polk Audio, Inc.
verwendet werden.
Polk Audio e un'azienda Directed Electronics, quotata sullistino
NASDAQ con il simoolo DEIX. Per informazioni concementi
gli investitori visitare il sito http://investordirected.com.
"Polk Audio" e "I-Sonic" sono marchi registrati di Britannia
Investment Corporation, utilizzati su licenza da Polk Audio, Inc.
A Polk Audio e uma empresa da Directed Electronics, negociada
na NASDAQ com 0 sfmoolo DEIX. Informac6es para investidores
estao disponfveis em http://investordirected.com.
·PolkAudio· e ·I-Sonic· sao marcas registradas da Britannia
Investment Corporation usadas sob licenca pela Polk Audio, Inc.
w w w . POL K A U D I 0 . COM / AMP S 79

LIMITED WARRANTY
Polk Audio, Inc., warrants to the original retail purchaser only. This warranty will terminate automatically prior to its stated expiration if the original
retail purchaser sells or transfers the Product to any other party.
Polk Audio, Inc, warrants, to the original retail purchaser only, that the LOUDSPEAKER(S), PASSIVE CROSSOVER COMPON-ENT(S) and ENCLOSURE
on this Polk Audio Loudspeaker Product will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original
retail purchase from a Polk Audio Authorized Dealer, and 2 years if installed by the same dealer.
To allow Polk Audio to offer the best possible warranty service, please register your new product online at www.polkaudio.com/registration or call
Polk customer service 800-377-7655 in the USA and Canada (outside the USA 410-358-3600) within ten (101 days of the date of original purchase
Be sure to keep your original purchase receipt
Defective Products must be shipped, together with proof of purchase, prepaid insured to the Polk Audio Authorized Dealer from whom you pur-
chased the Product, or to the Factory at 2550 Britannia Boulevard, Suite A, San Diego, Califomia 92154. Products must be shipped in the original
shipping container or its equivalent; in any case the risk of loss or damage in transit is to be bome by you. If upon examination at the Factory' or
Polk Audio Auth-orized Dealer it is determined that the unit was defective in materials or workmanship at any time during this Warranty period,
Polk Audio or the Polk Audio Authorized Dealerwill, at its option, repair or replace this Product at no additional charge, except as set forth below.
All replaced parts and Products become the property of Polk Audio Products replaced or repaired under this warranty will be retumed to you,
within a reasonable time, freight prepaid.
This warranty does not include service or parts to repair damage caused by accident, disaster, misuse, abuse, negligence, inadequate packing
or shipping procedures, commercial use, voltage inputs in excess of the rated maximum of the unit, cosmetic appearance of cabinetry not directly
attributable to defect in materials or workmanship, or service, repair, or modification of the Product which has not been authorized or approved
by Polk Audio. This warranty shall terminate if the Serial number on the Product has been removed, tampered with or defaced.
This warranty is in lieu of all other expressed Warranties. If this Product is defective in materials or workmanship as warranted above, your
sole remedy shall be repair or replacement as provided above. In no event will Polk Audio, Inc. be liable to you for any incidental or consequential
damages arising out of the use or inability to use the Product, even if Polk Audio, Inc. or a Polk Audio Authorized Dealer has been advised of the
possibility of such damages, or for any claim by any other party Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages,
so the above limitation and exclusion may not apply to you
All implied warranties on this Product are limited to the duration of this expressed Warranty. Some states do not allow limitation on how long
an implied Warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you also may have
other rights which vary from state to state
This Warranty applies only to Products purchased in Canada, the United States of America, its possessions, and U.S. and NATO armed forces
exchanges and audio clubs.
The Warranty terms and conditions applicable to Products purchased in other countries are available from the Polk Audio Authorized Distributors
in such co untries.
80 PA 12V AMPLIFIERS