Power bass RTA-112 User guide

Amplified Bass System
Application Guide
Please read through this manual to familiarize yourself with your new speakers. Should your PowerBass
Autosound speaker system ever require service, you will need to have the original dated receipt.
RTA-110
RTA-112

Thank you and Congratulations
Congratulations on your purchase of a PowerBass Autosound speaker system. You now own a
speaker of uncompromising design and engineering from a factory that truly believes in the relent-
less pursuit of perfection. Incorporating the highest quality parts and state-of-the-art materials,
these speakers display the ultimate balance between high fidelity, performance and long-lasting
reliability.
At PowerBass USA, Inc. we are confident you will have many years of outstanding enjoyment from
this great SPEAKER investment. For maximum performance we recommend that you have your new
PowerBass Autosound product installed by an Authorized PowerBass Autosound Dealer.
To learn more about PowerBass, please visit us on the World Wide Web at
http://www.powerbassusa.com
∆Warning ∆
Continuous exposure to sound pressure levels in excess of 100 dB can cause permanent hearing loss. PowerBass Autosound
Speakers are capable of producing sound pressure levels well over 170 dB. Please observe all local sound ordinances while
listening to your PowerBass Autosound system. PowerBass USA, Inc. accepts no liability for hearing loss, bodily injury, or
property damage due to the result of use or misuse of this product.

POWERBASS AMPLIFIED BASS SYSTEM FEATURES
Built-in High Powered Amplifier: Contains a high power Class A/B monaural amplifier
complete with chassis mounted adjustable Gain, Low Pass Filter and Bass Eq controls for sonic
integration into most existing factory or aftermarket car stereo systems and engineered perfectly
to power the subwoofer.
Heavy-duty Box Design: This enclosure is constructed from non-resonant 5/8” panels that
have been glued, braced and sealed. Each box is finished in a stylish two tone RFG aviation
grade vinyl covering.
Bass Reflex Single Port System: Utilizing a Bass Reflex design offers increased efficiency
of low frequencies. To accomplish this, a flared Venturi port tube is used for exact tuning and
virtually no port noise (breathing) resulting in tight bass.
Remote Subwoofer Level Control: This wired remote functions as a Bass Level control and
can provide 0-12dB of gain at 45Hz. The remote will not increase the output beyond the GAIN
setting on the amplifier. Supplied with 18ft of cable it can reach your dash even when the bass
enclosure is mounted in the trunk.
Polypropylene Cone with Rubber Surround: A thermoplastic polymer cone was selected to
help resist moisture and other elements while the rubber surround offers more excursion as well
as protection against deterioration than other materials.
KSV High Temperature Voice Coil: These specially designed resin coated high temperature
Kapton® voice coils measure a full 2-inches in diameter to ensure high power handling and
precise linear excursion while maximizing thermal heat dissipation.
Additional Features: Vinyl enclosure, professional mounting hardware and wiring harness
adds further value to your investment.
Kapton® is a registered trademark of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
3

SPECIFICATIONS FOR RTA SERIES SUBWOOFER SYSTEM
(Due to Constant Improvements, Specifications and Parameters are subject to change without notice.)
Model Size System
Impedance
Frequency
Response
Sensitivity
1W/1M
Magnet
Size
Voice Coil
Dia.
Amp Power
RMS/Peak
RTA-112 Single 12” 4-ohm 30Hz-250Hz 87dB 45 oz. 2.0” 200W/400W
RTA-110 Single 10” 4-ohm 33Hz-250Hz 86dB 40 oz. 2.0” 175W/350W
UNPACKING THE ENCLOSURE
Every attempt has been made to transport your new PowerBass RTA subwoofer system safely. Carefully
unpack the enclosure and inspect it thoroughly for any damage that may have occurred during ship-
ping. Notify your local PowerBass dealer immediately should you notice any damage prior to installing
the unit. Be sure to keep the carton and packing material until your system is operational. The original
boxes will do the best job of protecting your speaker system if they need to be transported.
INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE
Installation of PowerBass Autosound Speakers requires experience with a variety of mechanical and
electrical procedures. This manual only provides general installation and operating instructions. If you
have any reservations about your installation skills or lack the proper tools, please contact your local
PowerBass Autosound dealer for assistance.
IMPORTANT: This amplified subwoofer system is designed for operation in vehicles with 12-
volt Negative ground electrical systems only.
ENCLOSURE PLACEMENT TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Your PowerBass Amplified Bass system must be properly placed in the vehicle for optimum per-
formance. Choose a structurally sound location to mount your PowerBass amplified subwoofer
enclosure. The output of the woofer needs to be “corner loaded” against the walls of the vehicle to
produce the most bass (hard surfaces work best). Since the output of the woofer will be “corner
loaded”, the best location is likely to be to the front or rear corner of a trunk or luggage compart-
ment. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with the placement as a little time and effort can have
a great effect on the amount of bass produced. Below are some placement suggestions:

5
1) The amplifier heatsink end (opposite the woofer and port tube end) should be facing into a
corner. See Fig 1.
2) Ideally there should be several inches clearance between the amplifier heatsink and the corner it
is backed up to. Make sure the open port beside the woofer is not obstructed.
3) When all connections are made the final step should be to secure the enclosure using the mount-
ing brackets provided so it remains securely in place.
WARNING: Make sure where ever you choose to place the enclosure it’s a dry location on a solid
surface. Take care that none of the mounting screws will pierce any wiring harnesses, brake or fuel
lines, the vehicles fuel tank, spare tire or any other parts of the vehicle. Some or all of these may
be located behind or under the mounting surface.
Fig.1
amplifier side
woofer/port side
NOTE: Do not obstruct the
port opening

ENCLOSURE DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS
NOTE: The speaker system must be secured to protect the enclosure from moving. Before final
mounting, be sure to check the sound one last time and make sure the enclosure is properly placed
to produce the desired bass output. Use the two mounting brackets provided and secure them to
the enclosure as shown in the drawing above.
When mounting in a trunk, try to make sure the enclosure is positioned in a manner that packages
and luggage will not slide and hit the enclosure or the woofer.
In some cases where there is no flat or even mounting area, it may be necessary to use a wooden
board to fasten the enclosure to and properly secure the mounting brackets.
NOTE: Do not obstruct the port opening.
12.25" (311mm)
14.4" (366mm)
13.5" (343mm)
11.4" (290mm)
13.75"
(349mm)
12.25" (311mm)
RTA-112
RTA-110
* Dashed white lines indicate recommended mounting bracket location.
PORT
MOUNTING
BRACKET
WOOFER
18.75" (476mm)
17" (432mm)

RTA AMPLIFER CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT
Fig.2
1. LOW INPUT (RCA) Jacks
These RCA style input jacks are for use with source units that have RCA line level inputs. A source unit with
a minimum output of 500mV is required for proper operation. However, this input can accept levels up to
4Vrms.
2. PHASE Switch
This switch will reverse the phase of the speaker output without having to touch any wiring. 0 is normal.
180 reverses the output. Select whichever setting provides the most bass.
3. HIGH INPUT
Use the High Input 4-pin Molex style jack when connecting to the speaker leads directly from a factory radio
without the use of a low level convertor. Be sure to observe the correct speaker polarity. (Do not use if you
are using the LOW INPUT from the RCA jacks).
7

4. REMOTE LEVEL (RJ45 Jack)
This is the connector port for the RTA Remote Level control. Now the amplifiers secondary gain circuit can
be adjusted from the driver’s seat.
5. GND (Ground Input Connection)
A good quality ground is required for the amplifier to operate a peak performance. A short length of cable
the same gauge as your power cable (8ga is recommended) 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
good quality ground connection.
6. REM (Remote)
The amplifier in your RTA enclosure can be turned on by applying 12 volts to this terminal. This can be on
the rear of the source unit (radio) in the form of an electric antenna output or remote output. If this is not
available you can wire up to the ACC position on the ignition key switch. An 18ga wire is sufficient to run the
remote.
7. BATT+ (12 Volt Positive)
This terminal is the main power input for the amplifier and must be connected directly to the positive (+)
terminal of the battery. A minimum of 10ga cable is required.
8. LPF (Low Pass Filter) Control
This filter allows the low pass of frequency and has an adjustable crossover point from 50Hz to 200Hz. A
setting of 50Hz will produce only the low frequencies (deep bass). A max setting of 200Hz will allow the
amplifier to produce a more punchy (higher) bass response.
9. BASS EQ Control
This equalization circuit is used to enhance the low frequency response of the vehicles interior. With up to
12dB of boost centered at 45Hz the Bass EQ can be adjusted to meet your personal taste. Please note that
by boosting the Bass EQ to its full +12dB you are asking the amplifier to work 10 times harder!
10. GAIN Control
This control is used to match the sensitivity of the amplifier to the particular source unit (radio) that you are
using up to 4 volts. Please note the GAIN control is not a volume control, it is a level match.
11. POWER Indicator
This RED L.E.D. lights up when the power is on and the system is wired correctly.
12. FUSE
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. RTA-110
uses a 15A fuse, RTA-112 uses a 20A
CAUTION: These power fuses on the amplifier chassis are for protecting the amp against over current
situation. To protect the vehicles electrical system, an additional fuse should be used within 18-inches of the
battery on the 12V+ cable.

POWER WIRING AND SIGNAL CONNECTIONS
POWER CONNECTION
BATT+ The amplifier should be wired directly to the vehicle battery using a 8ga power cable. Start
at the vehicle battery and run the power cable through the vehicle’s firewall using grommets to the
amplifier’s BATT + screw terminal. If factory grommets are not available install grommets yourself to
protect the cable from sharp metal edges.
Avoid running the power cable over the engine components and near heater cores. The use of an in-
line fuse or circuit breaker is a must, this will prevent the risk of potential fire caused by a short in the
power cable. Connect the fuse holder or circuit breaker as close to the battery positive (+) terminal as
possible (no farther than 18-inches from the battery).
The fuse or breaker amperage should be no greater than the fuse rating found on the amplifier control
panel located on the side of the RTA enclosure. You can now connect the cable to the battery, but
remember to leave the fuse out or the circuit breaker “off” until the other cable connections are made.
It is highly recommended that the cable end connecting to the amplifier is terminated with a spade or
ring terminal.
IMPORTANT—You MUST install a fuse holder with an appropriate fuse in line with the power cable
no further than 18-inches from the battery.
REM Run 18ga wire (not included) to the radio power antenna lead or remote output. This wire is
responsible for turning the amplifier on and off. If the source unit (radio) is not equipped with a Remote
lead you can connect this wire to an accessory or ignition point at the vehicle fuse block. In this type
of installation, the amplifier will be on whenever the ignition is on.
GND A cable of the same size (gauge) as the power cable should be used to ground the amplifier.
Connect the ground wire from the screw terminal marked GND on the amplifier control panel to the
nearest bare-metal surface on the vehicle. Keep the length of the ground cable to an absolute mini-
mum using a spade terminal at the amplifier end and ring terminal as shown in below at the chassis
end (Fig 3).
Bolt
Note: Remove any paint
below ring connector
Star Washer
Ring Connector
Ground Wire
9
Fig.3

INPUT SIGNAL (Choosing the High or Low Inputs)
The RTA amplifer control panel input signal connects to the head unit’s High Level (speaker wire)
output OR Low Level (RCA) output—provided the radio is so equipped with Line Out. A dedicated
subwoofer or low level signal will deliver the best performance. If unavailable use the high level
inputs, as will be the case with most factory head units. (Note once you have chosen whether
you will use the High Level or Low Level inputs follow the corresponding wiring diagrams on the
following pages)
NOTE: Never use BOTH High and Low Level inputs at the same time. You must select one or the
other!
High Level Input Connections (fig 4)
For radios with only speaker outputs (including most Factory source units). Using the 4-pin Molex
style wiring harness provided, splice directly into the radio’s speaker outputs. Do not break the
connection with the source (radio) and the speakers. Be sure to maintain proper speaker polarity.
Another option is to tap off the existing front or rear full range speakers. Once again be sure to
follow the correct polarity
Wire Color Connect to
Red
Black
Red
Black
Left +
Left -
Right +
Right -

Fig.4 High Level Connections
NOTE: Use 8ga power/ground wire for BATT+ and GND connections
11

Low Level Input and RCA Interconnect Wiring (fig 5)
For radios that have RCA line outputs. You will need to connect the low-level RCA style inputs
from the RTA to the line-outputs from the radio (source) via an RCA interconnect commonly called
a “stereo patch cord”. 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 be easily picked
up through RCA cables if run incorrectly. Take care to make sure the power and audio signal are
not on the same side of the vehicle and they do not cross each other.

Fig.5 Low Level Connections
13
NOTE: Use 8ga power/ground wire for BATT+ and GND connections

SET UP ADJUSTMENTS
Your RTA enclosure uses several controls to provide sonic integration with virtually any vehicles
unique acoustic properties. Please read the following section carefully to familiarize yourself with
the function of each control.
The following adjustment sequence is recommended to properly tune your RTA enclosure. By first
adjusting the GAIN, the LPF, then the PHASE switch, followed by the BASS EQ (in this order) will
give you the best results.
Input GAIN Control
This control allows you to match the input level of the amplifier to the output level of your head unit
(Fig 6). Matching the input can be accomplished in four simple steps:
1. Make sure the remote gain control is not plugged in until after the master gain control is set.
2. Set the GAIN control on the amplifier to MIN (completely counter clock wise).
3. Turn on the head unit and adjust the volume to 2/3 maximum, and set the BASS and TREBLE
on the radio (source) to zero or flat.
4. Turn 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 these four steps above may leave you
with a damaged woofer and/or damaged amplifier.
LPF (Low Pass Filter) Crossover Adjustment
Since musical tastes vary, adjust the crossover by ear while listening to the music of your choice.
Turn the crossover LPF adjustment all the way down to 50Hz. Then slowly turn the knob up until
desired sound is achieved. Normal listening level should be right around 100Hz to 150Hz. Use
common sense when adjusting the crossover. When properly adjusted, the bass from the RTA
enclosure should blend in with the rest of your speakers and not overpower the music. Be sure to
set the tone controls of your radio (source unit) to flat while dialing in the crossover. (Fig 7)
Fig.6 GAIN Control
GAIN
MINMAX
Fig.7 Low Pass Control (LPF)
50Hz
LPF
200Hz

Setting the PHASE switch
Start with the PHASE switch set at 0˚ and play a favorite music track that contains some solid bass
(make sure the BASS EQ control is set at the 12 o’clock position). Then flip the switch to 180˚ and
listen to the same musical track again. Choose the setting that provides the best bass response
according to your taste.
BASS EQ Adjustment
This special feature is designed to provide you with more powerful sound quality and it allows you
to increase the Bass up to +12dB. Keep in mind that more is not always better. Adjusting the
control to the MAX (12dB) position will stress the amplifier and the woofer which could result in
damage. (Fig 9)
NOTE: Although this adjustment sequence will in most cases provide the best tuning results, the
actual process may include several readjustments of each of the controls since their settings
interact with each other. If necessary, consult your Authorized PowerBass dealer for help tuning
your system.
Fig.9 Bass EQ Control
Fig.8 PHASE Switch
15

Remote Level Controller
Your PowerBass RTA enclosure includes a wired Remote Level Subwoofer control module. It uses
standard telephone wire and telephone RJ45 connectors. To connect the Remote Subwoofer Gain
control to the amplified enclosure, simply insert one end of the telephone plug into the REMOTE
gain port. Plug the other end into the back of the remote module. Mount the module within easy
reach or under your dash. (Fig 10)
NOTE: DO NOT plug in or disconnect the remote bass level controller when the amplifier is on!
Break In Period
To get the most from your woofer we recommend a "break-in" period of at least 40 hours (typically
2 weeks) at no more than 1/3 of maximum volume.
During this time the cone and spider assembly will gradually break in resulting in greater performance
and more listening enjoyment.
Fig.10 Connection with RJ45 Jack
Product Disposal – Certain international, national and/or
local laws and/or regulations may apply regarding the disposal
of this product. For further detailed information, please contact
the retailer where you purchased this product or the PowerBass
Importer/Distributor in your country.

TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Problem Solution
Power LED not ON With a Volt OHM Meter (VOM) check:
• +12 Volt power terminal (should read +12 to +16VDC
• Remote turn-on terminal (should read +12 to +16VDC)
• Ground Terminal
Power LED lights RED, no output • Check RCA connections
• Test speaker outputs with known good speaker
• Substitute known good Source Unit
• Check for signal on the RCA cable with VOM in AC po-
sition
Power LED lights RED, but volume
reduces automatically.
• Advanced Protection Circuitry is engaging due to high
internal temperature of the amplifier. Amplifer requires
more air flow around the chassis. If this continues
choose a better ventilated mounting location.
• High operating temperature can be caused by incorrect
input sensitivity level. Reset the GAIN contol.
The RED LED is ON, no output and
1. Amp is VERY HOT
2. Amp shuts down ONLY when the
vehicle is running
3. Amp plays at very low volume
• Thermal protection is engaged. Check for proper im-
pedance at speaker terminals. Also check for adequate
air flow around the amplifier.
• Voltage protection engaged. Voltage to the amp is not
within the 10-16 VDC operating range. Have the bat-
tery/charging system inspected.
• Short circuit protection is engaged.Check for speaker
wires shorted to each other or the vehicle chassis.
Speakers operating below the minimum impedance
can cause this to occur.
Alternator noise (varies with RPM) • Check for damaged RCA cable.
• Check routing of RCA cable
• Check Source Unit for good ground
• Check amp gain setting, turn down if set too high
Poor Bass Response •Checkspeakerpolarity,reversetheconnectionofone
speaker only using the amplifier's PHASE switch.
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 2013 PowerBass USA, Inc.
17

WE WANT YOU LISTENING FOR A LIFETIME
Dear Customer,
Selecting fine audio equipment such as the speakers you’ve just purchased is only the start of your musical
enjoyment. Now it’s time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment
offers. PowerBass and the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) want you to get the most out of
your equipment by playing at a safe level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without
annoying, blaring or distortion- and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing.
Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing " comfort level" adapts to higher volumes of sound. So
what sounds "normal" can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing. Guard against this by setting your
equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.
PowerBass and the CEA want you to listening for a lifetime!
WARRANTY NOTES
Should a warranty issue arise with our amplified subwoofer system PowerBass will replace the de-
fective woofer only. Do not send the entire enclosure, unless the enclosure or amplifier is defective
itself. PowerBass does not warranty the cosmetics of the enclosure once installed in the vehicle.

POWERBASS AUTOSOUND LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY
PowerBass USA, Inc. offers limited warranty on PowerBass products under normal use on the following
terms:
PowerBass Autosound Speakers are to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a
period of one (1) year.
This warranty applies only to PowerBass products sold to consumers by Authorized PowerBass
Dealers in the United States of America. Products purchased by consumers from a PowerBass dealer
in another country are covered only by that country’s Distributor and not by PowerBass USA.
This warranty covers only the original purchaser of PowerBass product. In order to receive service, the
purchaser must provide PowerBass with the receipt stating the consumer name, dealer, product and
date of purchase.
Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced (with a product
deemed to be equivalent) at PowerBass’s discretion and will not be liable for incidental or consequential
damages. PowerBass will not warranty this product under the following situations:
• Ampliers received with apparent rust or corrosion
• Any evidence of liquid damage or exposure to excessive heat
• Abuse such as holes in the cone, surround or ripped spider
• Voice coil damage due to amplier clipping or distortion
• Product that has not been installed according to this owners manual
Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are limited in duration
to the period of the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow limitations on the
length of an implied warranty, so this limitation may not apply. No person is authorized to assume for
PowerBass any other liability in connection with the sale of this product.
Please call [phone] for PowerBass Customer Service. You must obtain an RA# (Return
Authorization Number) to return any product to PowerBass. The RA number must be prominently
marked on the outside of the shipping carton or the delivery will be refused. Please pack your
return carefully; we are not responsible for items damaged in shipping. Return the defective product
along with a copy of the original dated retail sales receipt, plus $12.00 for handling and diagnostic
evaluation to:
PowerBass USA, Inc., Attn: Returns (RA#__________)
2133 S. Green Privado, Ontario, CA 91761
Residents of HI, AK and US territories will be charged for return shipping. All inquires regarding service
and warranty should be sent to the above address.

PowerBass Autosound – A division of PowerBass USA, Inc.
2133 S. Green Privado – Ontario, CA 91761
Tel. [phone] – Fax [phone]
www.powerbassusa.com