Power bass ASA3-200.2 User manual

ASA SERIES CLASS A/B AMPLIFIER
Owners Manual
Please read through this manual to familiarize yourself with your new amplifier. Should your PowerBass
AutoSound mobile amplifier ever require service, you will need to have the original dated receipt.
ASA3-200.2
ASA3-300.2
ASA3-400.2
ASA3-600.2
ASA3-800.2
ASA3-1200.2
ASA3-400.4
ASA3-600.4
ASA3-700.5
ASA3-1100.5

Thank you and Congratulations
Thank you for your decision to purchase a PowerBass USA Autosound mobile amplifier! Our Autosound
amplifiers are the result of extensive engineering, testing, and bullet proof construction. Their versatility
enables compatibility with optional signal and audio processors. These high quality MOSFET amplifiers
may be configured to allow maximum flexibility in designing different types of speaker systems.
A/B CLASS FULL RANGE AMPLIFIERS
The PowerBass ASA3 Series are high quality MOSFET amplifiers that are capable of running a system full
range, or they may be selected only to power subwoofers. It is important that you closely follow the wiring
instructions contained in this Owners Manual so that you get the most from your PowerBass AutoSound
mobile amplifier.
∆Caution ∆
High powered audio systems in a vehicle are capable of generating higher then “Live Concert” levels of sound pressure. Continued
exposure to excessively high volume sound levels will cause hearing loss or damage. Also, operation of a motor vehicle while listening
to audio equipment at high volume levels may impair your ability to hear external sounds such as horns, warning signals, or emergency
vehicles—thus creating a potential traffic hazard. In the interest of safety, PowerBass USA highly recommends listening at lower volume
levels when driving.

TECHNICAL FEATURES
• Low Profile Aluminum Finned Heatsink
• PWM MOSFET Power Supplies for High Power Output and Best Stability into Low Impedance Loads
• Variable High Pass and Low Pass Electronic Crossovers
• Soft Delay Remote Turn On/Off Circuit to Eliminating Pops and Clicks
• Fully Adjustable Bass EQ at 45Hz (18dB)
• Self Diagnostic Multi Protection Circuit with LED Status Indicator for Impedance Over-load, Speaker
Short Circuit, Thermal Overheating, and DC Output.
• 2-ohm Stereo Stable (4-ohm Mono Bridgeable)
• Custom Tooled Speaker and Power Terminal Blocks
• Variable Gain Control
• Level Control Port (for Optional Remote Level Control - model PB-GAIN1 sold separately)
• Low Level Line Inputs and Outputs
INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE
Installation of PowerBass mobile amplifiers requires detailed knowledge of electronics wiring and proper
speaker impedance. We strongly recommend installation by an authorized PowerBass dealer. This Own-
ers Manual only provides general installation and operation instructions. If you have any reservations
about your installation skills, please contact your local PowerBass dealer for assistance.
IMPORTANT : This amplifier is designed for operation in vehicles with 12-volt Negative ground
electrical systems only.
PREPARING FOR INSTALLATION
NOTE: The tools listed below may be required for basic installation
• An electric drill with bits
• Philips head and standard screwdrivers
• Wire strippers
• Crimping tool
• VOM (electronic volt ohm meter)
• Heat shrink tubing and heat gun
• Soldering iron
• Electronic (Rosen Core not Acid Core) Solder
3

INSTALLATION PRECAUTIONS
NOTE: Proceed only if you are a qualified installer, otherwise; see your Authorized PowerBass
Dealer to professionally install this amplifier. Always wear protective eyewear when using
tools.
• Turn off all electrical devices before you begin.
• Disconnect the negative (-) lead from your vehicles battery.
• Locate all fuel lines, brake lines, oil lines, and electrical cables when planning the install.
• Make sure there is at least 2-inches (5 cm) around the air vents on the amplifier.
• When connecting ground points, make sure all paint is carefully scrapped away from the auto body
and contact is make with bare metal.
• Use a utility knife to trim away fabric from hole locations before drilling or cutting.
• When running power cables through sheet metal, be sure to use grommets to properly insulate the
metal edges from the wire insulation.
• If possible, use tubing through grommets.
To keep your PowerBass Autosound amplifier running at top performance, choosing the proper location
is of utmost importance. For this reason the amplifier should be mounted in a location which will allow
air to circulate freely. A clearance of at least 2-inches (5 cm) to all sides of the amplifier is necessary
not only for proper cooling, but also for gaining access to the inputs and other variable controls. Be sure
that the power and signal cable connections can enter and leave the amplifier in a straight line to avoid
the risk of kinked wires causing malfunction.
Fig.1 Mounting Amplifier
MOUNTING THE AMPLIFIER

MOUNTING LOCATION
Find a clear and well ventilated area to mount your amplifier that is unobstructed by any objects that will cause
harm or block ventilation. Do not mount under a carpet or in an area with no air circulation. Without proper
airflow the amplifier may over heat and go into protection where the thermal overload circuitry will shut down
the amplifier.
You may use the amplifier as a template and mark the four screw locations with a felt tip pen. Set the amplifier
aside before drilling. Use caution to make sure there are no objects behind the installation surface that may
become damaged during drilling.
If mounting under a seat, make sure there is at least 1-inch (2.5 cm) of space above the amplifier’s heatsink
to permit proper cooling.
The amplifier should be protected from exposure to moisture and direct sunlight. The best places to mount
your amplifier are: The floor of the trunk, under a seat, or on the back of the rear seat. For alternate installation
locations, please consult your authorized PowerBass Dealer.
*** WARNING ***
• Do not install in a place where it could injure the driver or passengers if the vehicle
stops suddenly.
• Upside down mounting will compromise heat dissipation through the heatsink and
could engage the thermal protection circuit.
• Try to avoid mounting the amplifier on a subwoofer enclosure, as extended exposure
to vibration may cause malfunction of the amplifier.
• Don’t mount the amplifier so that the wire connections are unprotected or are sub-
ject to pinching or damage from nearby objects.
• The DC power wire must be fused at the battery positive (+) terminal connection.
Before making or breaking power connections at the amplifier power terminals,
disconnect the DC power wire at the battery end.
• The battery of the car audio system must be disconnected until the entire wiring and
installation is completed.
• Don’t use a power drill to tighten the Power, Ground, Remote or Speaker output
terminals on the amplifier to avoid stripping the terminal screws. It is best to hand
tighten these connections.
5
NOTE: Do not use a drill with driver bit to mount the amplifier. Excessive force could
cause the plastic mounting feet to crack.

CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT
NOTE: Panel Layout and Controls may differ by model.
1. Line OUTPUT (RCA) Jacks
RCA style pass through output jacks allow for a signal to be sent to other amplifiers.
2. Line INPUT (RCA) Jacks
These RCA style input jacks are for use with source units that have RCA line level outputs. A source unit
with a minimum output of 200mV is required for proper operation. However, this input will accept levels up
to 6Vrms.
3. GAIN Control
This control is used to match the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the particular source unit that you are
using.
4. HPF (High Pass Filter) Control
This control is continuously adjustable from 40Hz through 250Hz at 12dB per octave.
Fig.2 Panel Layout

5. X-OVER Switch for FULL/HPF/LPF
Activates the built in electronic crossover network. Works in conjunction with the HPF and LPF adjustable
controls.
6. LPF (Low Pass Filter) Control
This control is continuously adjustable from 40Hz through 250Hz at 12dB per octave.
7. BASS EQ Control
This equalization circuit is used to enhance the low frequency response of the vehicle’s interior. With up to
18dB of boost centered at 45Hz, the BASS EQ can be adjusted to meet your own personal taste.
8. REMOTE LEVEL Port
This is the connector port for the optional Remote Level Control. Now the amplifiers secondary gain circuit
can be adjusted from the driver’s seat. (See your local PowerBass dealer and ask for model PB-GAIN1 sold
separately.)
9. BADGE Switch
Controls the lighting of the top mounted PowerBass logo badge.
10. POWER/STATUS Indicator
The BLUE L.E.D. lights up when the power is on. This L.E.D. turns RED constantly or flashes when the built-in
protection circuitry is activated. This indicates a problem with the system in relation to the amplifier (see
Troubleshooting Tips).
11. SPEAKER Output Terminals
As shown in the wiring diagrams, be sure to observe speaker polarity through the system and speaker im-
pedance. This specially tooled solderless terminal is designed to accommodate up to 10 gauge speaker wire.
12. FUSES
For convenience most PowerBass AutoSound amplifiers utilize common automotive ATC type fuses. For
continued protection in the event that a fuse blows, replace the fuse only with the same value. (See
speficification tables)
CAUTION: These power fuses on the amplifier chassis are for protecting the amp against over
current situations. To protect the vehicles electrical system, an additional fuse should be
installed within 18-inches of the battery on the 12V+ cable.
13. BATT+ (Power Input Connection)
This terminal is the main power input for the amplifier and must be connected directly to the positive (+)
terminal of the car battery. (see Power Cable Selection Chart on page 20 for recommended wire gauge for
each model). 7

14. REM (Remote Input Connection)
All PowerBass AutoSound amplifiers can be turned on by applying 12 volts to this terminal. This can be
found on the rear of the source unit in the form of an electric antenna output, or a remote output. If this is
not available you can wire to the ACC position on the key. An 18 gauge wire is sufficient to run the REMOTE.
15. GND (Ground Input Connection)
A good quality ground is required for your PowerBass AutoSound amplifier to operate at peak performance.
A short length of cable the same gauge as your power cable should be used to attach the ground terminal
directly to the chassis of the vehicle. Make sure that all of the paint is sanded or scraped away to ensure a
quality ground connection.
*** WARNING ***
Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal before you start any wiring work! The
battery of your car audio system must be disconnected until the entire wiring installation
is completed.
Your PowerBass Autosound amplifier requires unrestricted current to deliver peak performance, so do not
“starve” your amplifier by using small power cable. Using under sized power cable can result in unnecessary
over-heating of the amplifier, distortion at high volume levels and might even cause the thermal protection
circuitry to shut-off the amplifier. For best results we recommend a PowerBass amplifier install kit, available
at your local PowerBass dealer.
• Use rubber grommets when running cables through any metal or sharp plastic, to prevent accidental
shorting or shearing. Make sure the cables do not interfere with normal operation of the vehicle.
• The audio signal cables (RCA interconnects) should be kept far away from any potential sources of
electrical interference such as electronic vehicle management systems (relays, engine computers etc.),
wiring harnesses, fuel pumps etc.
POWER WIRING AND SIGNAL CONNECTIONS

These amplifiers are designed to work within a 9 to 17 volt DC range. Before any wires are connected, the
vehicles electrical system should be checked for correct voltage supply with the help of a voltmeter.
First, check the voltage at the battery with the ignition in the OFF position. The voltmeter should read no
less than 12V. If your vehicles electrical system is not up to these specifications, we recommend having it
checked by an auto electrician before any further installation. Once the vehicle is checked, make certain the
correct gauge cable is used. We recommend using as large a gauge cable as possible, use the Power Cable
Selection Chart on page 20 to calculate the correct power wire size for your application. Remember Bigger is
Better!
BATT+ (POWER)
This amplifier should be wired directly to the vehicle battery using the appropriate size cable. Start at the
vehicle battery and run the power cable through to the amplifier. Avoid running the power cable over engine
components and near heater cores. The use of an inline fuse or circuit breaker is a must; this will
prevent the risk of a potential fire caused by a short in your power cable. Connect the fuse holder or circuit
breaker as close to the battery positive (+) terminal as possible (no farther then 18” from the battery). This
fuse or circuit breaker should be no greater then the sum of the fuses found on the chassis of your amplifier
(also see specifications chart). You may now connect the cable to the battery, but remember to leave the fuse
out or circuit breaker “off” until all other cable connections are made.
Fig.3 Power Input Connection
9

GND (Ground)
When grounding your amplifier, locate a metal area close to the amplifier that is good source of ground
(preferable the floor pan). Once again, investigate the area you wish to use for electrical wires, vacuum lines,
and brake or fuel lines. Use either a wire brush or sandpaper to eliminate unwanted paint for better contact
of the ground.
Secure the ground cable to the body using a bolt, star washer and nut. Spread silicon over the screw and
bare metal to prevent rust and possible water leaks.
Now it’s time to connect the power and ground cables to the amplifier. Cut both cables to length.
Strip off 1/2 inch (12mm) of the insulation so that the bare wire fits all the way in the terminal block on the
side panel of the amplifier, seating it firmly so no bare wire is exposed. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the
BATT+ and the GND connection on the amplifier. Insert the ground first, and then the +12V and please make
sure that you place them into the correctly marked terminals. Then tighten the screws down securely - use
care not to over tighten and damage the wire.
REM (Remote Trigger)
This terminal must be connected to a switched +12V source. Typically, remote turn-on leads are provided
at the source unit that will turn on and off the amplifier in correspondence with the source. If the source unit
does not have a remote TURN on lead, then a switched +12V supply must be used, like the ACC, +12V.
Run a minimum of 18 gauge wire from the amplifier location to the source of the switched +12V lead. If
possible, route this wire on the same side of the vehicle as your power cable. Connect the source remote
output to the wire. Go back to the amplifier and cut the wire to length. Loosen the screw terminal marked
REM on the amplifier using an Allen wrench. Insert the stripped (bare) portion of the wire into the terminal
and tighten the screw securely.
Fig.4 A good ground is essential to proper operation

FUSE REQUIREMENTS
While the panel on your PowerBass amplifier incorporates one or more fuses, these do nothing to protect
the vehicle from a dangerous short circuit. It is absolutely vital that the main power lead to the amplifier(s)
in the system be fused within 18-inches (45cm) of the connection to the vehicle battery. The value of this
fuse (or circuit breaker) should be no greater than the sum of the fuses found on all of the equipment being
connected to that power wire.
NOTE: It is highly recommended that a hand screw driver and NOT a power drill is used to
tighten the set screws on the terminal blocks. This will prevent stripping or other possible
damage to the amplifier.
11

RCA INTERCONNECT WIRING
Fig.5 Low Level Input using RCA
Choose the correct length and style of RCA interconnects for your needs. Always use high quality RCA audio
cables (not supplied) for signal connections—those with multiple layers of shielding or a twisted pair variety
for better noise rejection.
Be extra careful when routing your RCA audio interconnect cables. Car environments are notorious for poorly
insulated wires. This means that hiss, engine noise, and fan noise can easily be picked up through RCA
cables if run incorrectly.
Make sure that the cables for power and audio signal are not on the same side of the vehicle and that they
do not cross each other; this will help reduce any noise that may radiate from the power cable and the signal
cable. If an audio cable is too close to a power cable, it may pick up the magnetic field generated by the
power cable, which could lead to a loss of quality in your signal.

This control allows you to match the input level of the amplifier to the output level of your head unit. Matching
the input can be accomplished in three simple steps:
1. Set the volume of GAIN on the amplifier to Min (completely counter clock wise).
2. Turn on the head unit and adjust volume to 2/3 maximum, and set the BASS and TREBLE to zero.
3. Adjust the GAIN control clockwise until the sound just begins to distort, then back off slightly to cut
distortion and operate at optimum gain.
Remember, the GAIN control is not a volume control. Ignoring the three steps above may leave you with
damaged speaker and/or a damaged amplifier.
SET UP ADJUSTMENTS
Input GAIN Adjustment
Fig.6 GAIN Control
GAIN
MINMAX
HPF (High Pass Filter) Adjustment
When you are using coaxial or component speaker system, this allows you to adjust high-pass X-over fre-
quency from 40Hz to 250Hz. To get better sound quality from coaxial or component speaker system, we
recommend the frequency should be higher than 65dB. Make sure the X-OVER switch is positioned at “HPF”.
BASS EQ Adjustment
This special feature is designed to provide you more powerful sound quality, and it allows you to boost the real
Bass EQ up to +18dB. Keep in mind that more is not always better. Setting the control to the max (18dB) will
stress the amplifier and the speakers and could result in damage.
Fig.7 Bass EQ Control
Fig.8 High Pass Control (HPF)
40Hz 250Hz
0dB+18 dB
13
65Hz

LPF (Low Pass Filter) Adjustment
Using this control, adjust the LPF frequency for your subwoofer speaker(s) operation. The X-OVER switch posi-
tion should be at “LPF”.
REMOTE LEVEL Port
This is for the optional Remote Gain Control (part# PB-GAIN1 see your Authorized PowerBass dealer for
details). Plugging in the remote Bass Control overrides the BASS EQ Control on the amplifier side panel.
Fig.9 Low Pass Control (LPF)
40Hz 250Hz
Fig.11 Sub Sonic Adjustment
Fig.10 Input Mode Switch
15Hz 40Hz
SUB SONIC Adjustment
The sub sonic control will filter out all frequencies below where the control it is set from going to your
subwoofer(s). This will prevent your subs from playing any low frequencies that may harm the speaker.
INPUT MODE
The INPUT MODE switch conviniently allows you to select the number of input channels from the source
(head unit) to the amplifier. The designations 2,4, and 5 refer to the number of channels or “pairs” of low
level RCA style inputs (ex: 1pr, 2pr, and 3pr).
This allows you to drive each channel individually for increased performance while at the same time
eliminates the need to use “Y” adaptors.
SPECIAL CONTROLS FOR THE ASA3-1100.5
The following instructions apply to the model ASA3-1100.5 only. You will not find these controls on any
of the other models in this series.
5

Fig.12 Sub Sonic Adjustment
SUB SONIC Switch
When set to the ON position, the sub sonic control will filter out all frequencies below 28 Hz from
going to the speaker(s). This will prevent your subwoofer or other speaker from playing any ultra low
frequencies that may potentially harm them from over excursion.
SPECIAL CONTROLS FOR THE ASA3-1200.2
The following instructions apply to the model ASA3-1200.2 only. You will not find this switch on any
of the other models in this series.
15

SPEAKER WIRING AND CONFIGURATIONS
Speaker Load
Keep in mind your PowerBass Autosound amplifier is a high power amplifier and not a high current amplifier.
In other words this amplifier requires a minimum impedance of 2 ohms STEREO and 4 ohms bridged
MONO to operate trouble free.Lower impedance will send the amplifier into protection and may possibly
damage the electronics inside.
NOTE: Know your impedance load before connecting speakers.
Speaker Wiring
Choose the correct speaker wire for your application. Most applications will require a minimum of a quality
16 gauge wire. Route these using the same precautions as you did when you ran the power cable. Terminate
these wires at the speaker end using insulated speaker terminals (not supplied) or by soldering the connection.
Make sure the speaker connections are positive-to-positive and negative-to-negative.
At the amplifier end, it is very important that the wires are making solid contact. Strip the wires insulation back
approximately 1/2 inch (12mm) and insert the wires into the appropriate openings. Check to make sure you’ve
maintained proper polarity and balance.
CAUTION:
Maintaining proper impedance is critical when wiring the Class AB model amplifiers. Improper wiring can
cause severe damage to BOTH the speaker and the amplifier. Detailed wiring diagrams are supplied with all
PowerBass woofers. IF YOU ARE NOT EXPERIENCED OR UNCOMFORTABLE READING THE WIRING DIAGRAMS
CONSULT YOUR AUTHORIZED POWERBASS DEALER BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT TO WIRE THE SYSTEM.

Speaker Output Configurations 2 Channel Models (ASA3-200.2, ASA3-300.2,
ASA3-400.2, ASA3-600.2, ASA3-800.2, ASA3-1200.2)
2. 1-Channel (Bridged Mode) Speaker Output Connection
1. 2-Channel Speaker Output Connection
Fig.13 2-CH Speaker Connection
(Do not connect total impedance under 2 ohms)
Fig.14 1-CH (Bridged Mode) Speaker Connection
(Do not connect total impedance under 4 ohms)
17

Speaker Output Configurations 4 Channel Models (ASA3-400.4, ASA3-600.4)
3. 4-Channel Speaker Output Connection
4. 3-Channel Stereo/Mono Speaker Output Connection
5. 2-Channel (Bridged Mode) Speaker Output Connection
Fig.16 3-CH Speaker Connection
Fig.17 2-CH Speaker Connection / 4 ohms minimum
Fig.15 4-CH Speaker Connection / 2 ohms minimum
FRONT REAR
FRONT REAR

Speaker Output Connections 5 Channel Models (ASA3-700.5, ASA3-1100.5)
6. 5-Channel Speaker Output Connection
7. 3-Channel Speaker Output Connection
Fig.19 3-CH Speaker Connection
Fig.18 5-CH Speaker Connection / 2 ohms minimum
19
FRONT
FRONT
REAR
REAR

RECOMMENDED WIRE SIZES
Power Cable Selection Chart
Fuse Total 4Ft 4-7Ft 7-10Ft 10-13Ft 13-16 Ft 16-19 Ft 19-22 Ft
In Amperes Length of Wire/Gauge
150A - 200A 2 GA 2 GA 2 GA *1/0* *1/0* *1/0* *1/0*
125A - 150A 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 2 GA 2 GA 2 GA
105A - 125A 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 2 GA
85A - 105A 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA
65A - 85A 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA
50A - 65A 10 GA 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA
35A - 50A 10 GA 10 GA 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA
PowerBass makes several types of amplifier wiring kits to assist with the installation of your PowerBass amplifier. Consult
your local PowerBass dealer for details. For more information about recommended power wire check out our website at
www.powerbassusa.com.
PERSONAL NOTES:
Name: ______________________________________________________________
Date Purchased: ______________________________________________________
Dealer: _____________________________________________________________
Installed By: _________________________________________________________
Model: _____________________________________________________________
Serial Number: ______________________________________________________
Miscellaneous: ______________________________________________________
This manual is the exclusive property of PowerBass USA, Inc. Any reproduction of this manual, or use other than its intentions
is strictly prohibited without the express consent of PowerBass USA, Inc. © Copyright 2014 PowerBass USA, Inc.