Power bass XAX 500D User manual

XAX 500D
XTREME SERIES MINI AMPLIFIER
Owners Manual
Please read through this manual to familiarize yourself with your new amplifier. Should your PowerBass
Xtreme mobile amplifier ever require service, you will need to have the original dated receipt.

3
Thank you and Congratulations
Thank you for your decision to purchase a PowerBass USA Xtreme mobile amplifier! Our new mini amplifiers
are the result of extensive engineering, testing, and bullet proof construction. Their versatility enables compat-
ibility 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.
D CLASS MINI AMPLIFIERS
The PowerBass XAX 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 Xtreme 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 could 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.
AMPLIFIERS

TECHNICAL FEATURES
• Class D Mono Amplifier
• Philips/NXP Chip Set
• Ultra Low Current Draw
• High Damping Control Circuit
• High Efficiency SMD Circuit Technology
• Double Sided Copper Plated PCB
• Digital Sound Optimization Circuitry
• Dead Zero Switching
• High Current Voltage Ripple Rejection Circuitry
• Virtual Silence Turn On/Off Mute Circuit
• Temperature Controlled Output Current Limiting Protection
• Subsonic Filter (variable 10Hz-50Hz)
• Dual Link Power Doubling Circuitry
• Platinum Tiffany RCA Connectors
• Wired Remote Gain Control
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 (not Acid Core) Solder

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 stereo and other 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.
Due to the high power output of the PowerBass Xtreme Class D amplifiers, considerable heat may be
produced when the unit is in operation. 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 the Amplifier
MOUNTING THE AMPLIFIER
5

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. You may use the amplifier as a template and mark the four screw locations with a
felt tip pen. Use caution to make sure there are no objects behind the installation surface that may become
damaged during drilling.
The amplifier should be protected from exposure to moisture and direct sunlight. The compact size of the
PowerBass XAX series amplifier allows greater flexibility in mounting. The best places to mount your amplifier
are: The floor of the trunk, under the driver’s seat, or on the back of the rear seat. For alternate installation
locations, please consult your authorized PowerBass Dealer.
*** WARNING ***
• 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.

CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT
Fig.2 Panel Layout
7
NOTE: Panel Layout and Controls may differ by model.
1. 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 500mV is required for proper operation. However, this input will accept levels up to 6Vrms.
2. GAIN Control
This control is used to match the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the particular source unit that you are
using up to 6 volts.
3. SUB SONIC Control
This control is continuously adjustable from 10Hz - 50Hz at 12dB per octave to provide an extra level of
speaker protection from bass robbing power at unheard frequencies.

4. PHASE Switch
This switchable control can be used to correct any “phase” or “time delay” effect in the system by bringing the
low frequency from the rear of the vehicle to the front.
5. BRIDGED CONNECTION Port
For linking two of the same model PowerBass Autosound Class D amps together. Connect the INPUT of the
MASTER to a suitable source via a standard telephone wire with RJ45 modular connectors to the jack on the
SLAVE amplifier. Then select the MASTER/SLAVE switch properly (see Speaker Output Configuration diagram).
6. BASS FREQ Control
This control is variable from 40Hz to 100Hz and allows you to choose the exact frequency you want to boost
using the BASS EQ feature.
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. SLAVE / MASTER Switch
Two like amplifiers can be connected together and bridged into a single 2-ohm (min) load. The level and fre-
quency controls on the SLAVE amp will be disabled. Only the amplifier you select as the MASTER will control
these functions. The Dual Link Power Doubling Circuit increases the output power as follows:
XAX 500D x 2 = 1,000 watts RMS (2 ohms min)
NOTE: If using only one amplifier this switch should remain in the MASTER position.
9. LPF (Low Pass Filter) Control
This filter allows low pass of frequency and is adjustable from 25Hz through 250Hz to eliminate unwanted
high frequencies.
10. REMOTE Gain (RJ45 Jack)
This is the connector port for the Remote Gain Control. Now the amplifiers secondary gain circuit can be
adjusted from the driver’s seat.
11. POWER Indicator
The clear L.E.D. lights BLUE when the power is on.
12. STATUS Indicator
This L.E.D. glows RED when the built-in protection circuitry is activated. This indicates a problem with the
system in relation to the amplifier (see Troubleshooting Tips).

9
13. SPEAKER Output Terminals
As shown in the wiring diagrams, be sure to observe speaker polarity through the system and speaker imped-
ance. This specially tooled terminal is designed to accommodate up to 10 gauge speaker wire.
14. FUSES
For convenience all PowerBass Xtreme mini amplifiers utilize common automotive ATC type fuses. For con-
tinued protection in the event that a fuse blows, replace the fuse only with the same value. CAUTION: These
power fuses on the amplifier chassis are for protecting the amp against overdrive. To protect the vehicles
electrical system, an additional fuse should be used within 18-inches of the battery on the 12V+ cable.
XAX 500D 25A x 2
15. BATT+ (Power Input Connection)
This solderless terminal is the main power input for the amplifier and must be connected directly to the positive
(+) terminal of the car battery. This terminal accepts up to 2 gauge wire. (see Power Cable Selection Chart for
recommended wire gauge for each model).
16. REMOTE (Remote Input Connection)
All PowerBass Xtreme 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.
17. GND (Ground Input Connection)
A good quality ground is required for your PowerBass Xtreme D Class amplifier to operate at peak perfor-
mance. 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.

This amplifier is designed to work within a 10 to 16 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
cable gauge is used. We recommend using as large a gauge cable as possible, use the Power Cable Selection
Chart to calculate the correct power wire size for your application.
*** WARNING ***
Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal before you start any wiring work! The bat-
tery of your car audio system must be disconnected until the entire wiring installation is
completed.
Your PowerBass Autosound Class D amp will draw large levels of current, so use the largest gauge power/
ground cable as possible. Using too small of power cable can result in unnecessary over-heating of the am-
plifier, distortion at high volume levels and might even cause the thermal protection circuitry to shut-off the
amplifier. Remember, bigger wire is better!
• 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 wiring
harnesses, fuel pumps etc.)
POWER WIRING AND SIGNAL CONNECTIONS
Fig.3 Power Input Connection
SPEAKER
SUBWOOFER
OUTPUT
FUSE
BATT+
25A 25A
REMOTE GND
FUSE HOLDER
Battery Within 18"
of Battery
Remote Turn ON
To Power Antenna
Chassis
Ground
(–)

POWER WIRING
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 that 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.
GND (Ground)
When grounding your amplifier, locate a metal area close to the amplifier that is good source of ground (pref-
erable 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 a Philips screwdriver to loosen the BATT+ and the
GND connections 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.
11
Note: Remove any paint
below ring connector
Star Washer
Ring ConnectorFactory Bolt
Ground Wire

REMOTE (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 power antenna wire can be used. If neither of these leads is available
at the source unit, 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 pos-
sible, 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 REMOTE
on the amplifier. Insert the stripped (bare) portion of the wire into the terminal and tighten the screw securely.

RCA INTERCONNECT WIRING
Fig.4 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 no 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.
13

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 four simple steps:
1. Make sure that 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 volume to 2/3 maximum, and set the BASS and TREBLE to zero.
4. Adjust the LEVEL 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 steps above may leave you with dam-
aged speaker and/or a damaged amplifierr.
LPF (Low Pass Filter) Adjustment
The crossover frequency adjustment filters out frequencies that you don’t want your speaker(s) to reproduce.
Using the LPF control, adjust the Low Pass Frequency to limit the amount of mid range you want going to your
woofer(s). Since musical tastes vary, adjust the crossover by ear while listening to the music of your choice.
Be sure to set the tone controls of your source unit to flat before adjusting the crossover
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
SET UP ADJUSTMENTS
Input GAIN Adjustment
Fig.5 GAIN Control
Fig.7 Low Pass Control
Fig.6 Sub Sonic Adjustment
GAIN
MIN MAX
Input Sensitivity Control
25Hz 250Hz
10Hz 50Hz

Adjusting the BASS EQ and BASS FREQ Controls
The BASS EQ is adjustable from 0-18dB, thus allowing you to tailor your sound system to your particular tastes.
The BASS FREQ lets you choose the frequency that the BASS EQ will boost. You will want to experiment with
both controls—begin your adjustments at low volume. First turn the BASS EQ control about half-way up. Next,
vary the BASS FREQ control up and down. Adjust both controls until you find the right combination that sounds
best with the music you listen to most.
NOTE: More is not always better. By turning the BASS EQ all the way up to 18dB you can overwork
the amplifier and send the unit into thermal protection.
Remote Gain Controller Connection
Your PowerBass Xtreme Class D amp includes a Remote Gain control module. It uses standard telephone wire
and telephone RJ45 connectors. To connect the Remote Gain Control to the amplifier, simply insert one end of
the telephone plug into the REMOTE Gain port. Plug the other end into the remote module. Install the module
within easy reach on or under your dash.
Fig.8a Bass EQ Control Fig.8b Bass FREQ Control
0dB +18dB
Fig.9 Connection with RJ45 Jack
15
40Hz 100Hz

SPEAKER WIRING AND CONFIGURATIONS
Speaker Load
Keep in mind your PowerBass Autosound Class D amp is a high power amplifier and not a high current ampli-
fier. In other words it requires a minimum impedance of 1 ohm. If you are unsure of calculating impedance
loads please consult your Authorized PowerBass Autosound Dealer before damaging your amplifier.
Too low of an impedance could send your amplifier into protection mode and/or damage the amplifier
Speaker Wiring
Choose the correct speaker wire for your application. We recommend a minimum of 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 to the speaker. Be
certain to maintain correct polarity throughout the system. Make sure the speaker connections are positive-
to-positive and negative-to-negative. Most speaker wire has some indicator (color code, ribbing, or printing) on
one of the two wires to help you distinguish the positive (+) and negative (-) leads.
At the amplifier end, insert the stripped (bare) speaker wires into the properly marked terminals. Use a Phil-
lips screw driver to loosen the speaker terminals on the amplifier. Make certain that no bare wire ends touch
each other. Such contact could result in an electrical short and cause the amplifier to turn off (short circuit
protection) or malfunction.
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.

Fig.10 A Single Voice Coil Subwoofer (1~4 ohm)
Fig.11 Two 4 ohm Subwoofers with Single Voice Coil
Speaker Output Configurations
1. A SINGLE VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER SPEAKER
2. TWO SINGLE VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER SPEAKERS
(Note: Don’t connect speaker impedance under 1 ohm)
17

CAUTION:
Maintaining proper impedance is critical when wiring the Class D model amplifiers. Improper wiring can cause
severe damage to BOTH the woofer 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.
3. ONE DUAL VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER SPEAKER
(Note: Don’t connect speaker impedance under 1 ohm)
Fig.12 One Subwoofer (2~4 ohms) with Dual Voice Coil
2-4 ohms DUAL VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER
Dual 4 ohm becomes 2 ohm as shown above
Dual 2 ohm becomes 1 ohm as shown above
SPEAKER
SUBWOOFER
OUTPUT
FUSE
BATT+
25A 25A
REMOTEG ND

4. DUAL LINK AMP TO AMP BRIDGED CONNECTION
Bridging two amplifiers ( of same model) can be done via the SLAVE/MASTER switch, BRIDGED CONNEC-
TION cable and speaker wiring the two amplifiers as follows:
Fig.13 Dual Link minimum 2 ohm load
NOTE: SPEAKER CONNECTION FOR BRIDGING TWO AMPS
• The mono woofer must be connected between the speaker (+) terminals of the two amplifiers and use
at least #12 gauge speaker wiring.
• Install a #12 gauge wire link between the speaker (–) terminals of the two amplifiers. If this is not done,
the system will not function properly, and damage to the amplifiers may result.
• Total impedance of speakers must be over 2-ohms. If the impedance drops under 2-ohms, critical dam-
age to the amplifier will occur.
19

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
PowerBass makes several types of amplifier wiring kits to assist with your installation. 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 2010 PowerBass USA, Inc.