Power bass XMA-1205D User manual

XMA-1205D
XMA-2000D
XMA MINI CLASS D MONO 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.

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.
CLASS D MINI AMPLIFIERS
The PowerBass XMA 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 than “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
• International Rectifier®Chip Set
• Ultra Low Current Draw
• High Damping Control Circuit
• High Efficiency SMD Circuit Technology
• Double Sided Copper Plated PCB
• Digital Sound Optimization Circuitry
• Quiet Switching
• High Current Voltage Ripple Rejection Circuitry
• Virtual Silence Turn On/Off Mute Circuit
• Temperature Controlled Output Current Limiting Protection
• Dual Link Power External Bridging Capable (set to set bridgeable at 2-ohms min)
• Wired Remote Level Control
• Balanced RCA Input Connectors
• 40 Click Bass Freq Control
• 40 Click Sub Sonic Filter Control
• 40 Click LPF Control
• Auto Turn-On Circuitry
• Fan Cooling (XMA-1205D only)
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 Owners
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 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 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.
WARNING: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual before disconnecting the battery. Disconnecting
the battery on some vehicles may require an anti-theft code when reconnecting the battery and
require the on-board computer to be reset at the dealership. Check with your local dealer if you
are uncertain.
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
Fan (XMA-1205D only)

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. Despite the fact that this amplifier is compact, it still needs air to cool the heatsink
fins. Do not mount under a carpet or an area with dead or stagnant air. Without proper air flow the amplifier
may overheat and go into protection where the thermal overload circuitry will shut down the amplifier.
NOTE: Make sure not to block the cooling fan (XMA-1205D only)
The amplifier should be protected from exposure to moisture and direct sunlight. The compact size of the
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.
If mounting under a seat, make sure there is at least 1-inch (2.5cm) of space above the amplifiers heatsink
to permit proper cooling.
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.
NOTE: Do not use a drill with driver bit to mount the amplifier. Excessive force could cause
the plastic mounting feet to crack.
*** 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.
5

CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT
Fig.2 Panel Layout
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 250mV is required for proper operation. However, this input will accept levels up to 10Vrms.
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. AUTO-TURN ON
Eliminates the need to run a dedicated remote wire for amplifier power on/off. Works with high level only (HL-
AD2 adapter required as shown on page 13)

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 externally bridging two of the same model PowerBass Xtreme Class D amps together. Connect the INPUT
of the MASTER to a suitable source via a standard telephone wire with RJ11 (4-pin) modular connectors to the
jack on the SLAVE amplifier. Then select the MASTER/SLAVE switch properly (see Speaker Output Configura-
tion diagram).
6. SUB SONIC Control 40 Click Detent 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.
7. 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.
8. SLAVE / MASTER Switch
Two like amplifiers can be connected together and externally bridged into a single 2-ohm (min) load. The
preamp 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. NOTE: If using
only one amplifier this switch should remain in the MASTER position.
XMA-1205D x 2 = 2,400 watts RMS (2 ohms min)
XMA-2000D x 2 = 4,000 watts RMS (2 ohms min)
9. 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 varied by the BASS FREQ control, the BASS EQ can be adjusted to meet your own personal taste.
10. LPF (Low Pass Filter) Control 40 Click Detent Control
This filter allows low pass of frequency and is adjustable from 25Hz through 250Hz to eliminate unwanted
high frequencies.
11. REMOTE LEVEL (RJ12 Jack)
This is the 6-pin connector port for the Remote Level Control. Now the amplifiers secondary gain circuit can
be adjusted from the driver’s seat.
12. POWER/STATUS Indicator Light
This clear LED lights BLUE for power and normal operation, or lights RED when there is a problem. This LED
will light RED when the built-on protection circuitry is activated. This indicates there is a problem with the
system in relation to the amplifier (see Troubleshooting Tips pg 25).
7

13. SPEAKER Output Terminals
As shown in the wiring diagrams, be sure to observe speaker polarity through the system and speaker
impedance. This specially tooled solderless terminal is designed to accommodate up to 10 gauge speaker
wire.
14. COOLING FAN
Variable speed fan pulls cool air in - do not block so air can enter (XMA-1205D only)
15. FUSES
For convenience most PowerBass Xtreme mini amplifiers utilize common automotive ATC type fuses. For contin-
ued protection in the event that a fuse blows, replace the fuse only with the same value. CAUTION: These pow-
er 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.
XMA-1200D 40A x 3
XMA-2000D 150A (Requires external fuse - not supplied)
NOTE: Due to space limitations, the XMA-2000D does NOT use chassis mounted protective fuses.
Therefore you must add a fuse and fuse holder (not included) rated at 150A for each XMA-2000D
installed.
16. 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 solderless terminal accepts up to 2 gauge wire. (see Power Cable Selection
Chart for recommended wire gauge for each model).
17. REM (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 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.
18. GND (Ground Input Connection)
A good quality ground is required for your PowerBass Xtreme Class D 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.

This amplifier is designed to work within a 9-16 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
battery of your car audio system must be disconnected until the entire wiring
installation is completed.
Your PowerBass Xtreme 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 amplifier,
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
9

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
(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 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 by hand.
Fig.4 Ground Connection

REM (Remote Trigger)
This terminal must be connected to a switched +12V source. Typically, a remote turn-on lead is provided at
the source unit that will turn on and off the amplifier in correspondence with the source. If this lead is not 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 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.
Insert the stripped (bare) portion of the wire into the terminal and tighten the screw securely.
FUSE REQUIREMENTS
While the panel on your PowerBass amplifier may use 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 con-
nected to that power wire.
NOTE: Due to space limitations, the XMA-2000D does NOT use chassis mounted protective fuses.
Therefore you must add a fuse and fuse holder (not included) rated at 150A for each XMA-2000D
installed.
AUTO TURN-ON Button
This unit features a High Level Auto Turn-on circuit that eliminates the need to run a separate Remote
Turn-on Lead to the terminal marked REM located between the amplifiers BATT+ and GND power terminals.
To engage this circuitry make sure the AUTO TURN-ON button is in the ON (out) position. Requires optional
HL-AD2 wiring Harness (see page 13). When this button is the OFF (in) position the amplifier will require a
dedicated remote wire to power the amplifier. If you are using the RCA Low Level inputs you will need to run
the Remote Turn-on wire and set the button to the OFF (in) position.
11

RCA INTERCONNECT WIRING
Low Level Input - 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.
NOTE: This is the preferred method.
Fig.5 Low Level
Input using RCA

13
HIGH INPUT PLUG
The balanced input of this XMA series amplifier can receive either low RCA or high speaker lead level signals
from the source unit (radio). A high level signal can be run from the source units speaker lead outputs to
the low level RCA amplifier inputs via the PowerBass HL-AD2 wiring harness (available separately as shown
below).
Fig.6 Optional High Level Input

Input GAIN Adjustment
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 level 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 GAIN control clockwise until the sound just begins to distort, then back off slightly to cut distor-
tion 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 amplifier.
SUB SONIC 40 Click Detent Control
The subsonic control will filter out all frequencies below where the control is set and prevent those frequencies
from going to your subwoofer(s). This will prevent your subs from playing any low frequencies that may harm
the speaker. When this amplifier is used with a subwoofer in a Vented Woofer application it is important to set
the frequency of the filter to cutoff ½ octave below the vent frequency. This will prevent the woofer unloading
from bass notes which are too low for the vented woofer. Once the woofer is unloaded it is operating as a free
air driver and may experience damage by striking the back plate or by shearing off the spider. Proper setting
of the subsonic filter is critical.
See the chart on page 23 to set the subsonic filter to the precise cutoff frequency.
SET UP ADJUSTMENTS
Fig.7 GAIN Control
Fig.8 Sub Sonic Adjustment
GAIN
MINMAX
10Hz 50Hz

LPF (Low Pass Filter) Adjustment
The crossover frequency adjustment filters out frequencies that you don’t want your subwoofer(s) to repro-
duce. 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.
See the chart on page 23 to set the Low Pass filter to the precise frequency.
Fig.9 Low Pass Control
250Hz
15
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 control has 40 click detents that allow you to choose precisely the frequency the BASS EQ will
boost. Refer to the chart on page 23 and find the setting of the BASS FREQ and determine what frequency you
want the BASS EQ to boost. You will want to experiment with both controls—begin your adjustments at low
volume. Next turn the BASS EQ control about half-way up. Adjust the controls until you find the right combina-
tion 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.
Fig.10a Bass EQ Control Fig.10b Bass FREQ Control
0dB+18 dB 40Hz 100Hz
25Hz

REMOTE LEVEL Controller Connection
Your PowerBass Xtreme Class D amp includes a Remote Level control module. It uses standard telephone wire
and telephone RJ12 connectors. To connect the Remote Level Control to the amplifier, simply insert one end
of the 6-pin telephone plug into the REMOTE LEVEL port. Plug the other end into the remote module. Install
the module within easy reach on or under your dash.
Fig.11 Connection with RJ12 Jack

SPEAKER WIRING AND CONFIGURATIONS
Speaker Load
Keep in mind your PowerBass Xtreme Class D amp is a high power amplifier and not a high current amplifier.
In other words it requires a minimum impedance of 1 ohm. Unless you are externally bridging two
XMA amplifiers in which case the minimum load is 2-ohms. If you are unsure of calculating impedance
loads please consult your Authorized PowerBass Dealer before damaging your amplifier.
Lower impedance will send the amplifier into protection and possibly damage the electronics inside.
Note: Know your load before connecting speakers.
XMA-1205D SPEAKER OUTPUT CONFIGURATIONS
Speaker Wiring
Choose the correct speaker wire for your application. We recommend a minimum of 14 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 an Allen
wrench 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 an Allen wrench is used to tighten the set screws
in the terminal blocks by hand and NOT a power drill. This will prevent stripping or other
possible damage to the amplifier.
17

Fig.12 A Single Voice Coil Subwoofer (1~4 ohm)
Fig.13 Two 2 ohm Subwoofers with Single Voice Coil (1 ohm min)
XMA-1205D SPEAKER OUTPUT CONFIGURATIONS
1-OHM STABLE DESIGN Minimum Impedance Load is 1-Ohm
1. A SINGLE VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER SPEAKER
2. TWO SINGLE VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER SPEAKERS
(Note: Don’t connect speaker impedance under 1 ohm)

19
Fig.14 Subwoofer Outputs on the XMA-2000D
XMA-2000D SPEAKER OUTPUT CONFIGURATIONS
SUBWOOFER OUTPUT 1 and SUBWOOFER OUTPUT 2
Although the XMA-2000D has two sets of speaker outputs, these are mono outputs that cannot be bridged.
The two sets of outputs are paralleled inside the amp to a single channel. This give you ease during the
installation of wiring multiple voice coils or woofers.
The speaker outputs on this Class D amplifier are internally paralleled and are NOT to be bridged. The
speaker’s impedance is divided between both output connections.
SPEAKER LOAD
The XMA-2000D is a Class D amplifier that requires a minimum impedance of 1 ohm. Both subwoofer
OUTPUT 1 and OUTPUT 2 are internally paralleled, thus a minimum impedance of 2 ohms is required when
using more than one of the outputs. If you are unsure of calculating impedance loads please consult your
PowerBass Xtreme dealer before damaging the amplifier.
*** WARNING ***
Do not try to bridge the speaker outputs on this amplifier. The two sets of speaker output
terminals are internally paralleled on the circuit board of the amplifier. This means if both
outputs are used with one driver each the amplifier sees the same load as if the same two
drivers were connected to only one output terminal.
OR

1-OHM STABLE DESIGN Minimum Impedance Load is 1-Ohm
Unless you are externally bridging two XMA amplifiers in which case min load is 2 ohms. Maintain-
ing 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 woof-
ers. IF YOU ARE NOT EXPERIENCED OR UNCOMFORTABLE READING THE WIRING DIAGRAMS CONSULT YOUR
AUTHORIZED POWERBASS DEALER BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT TO WIRE THE SYSTEM.
1. TWO SINGLE VOICE COIL SUBWOOFER SPEAKER
(Note: Don’t connect speaker impedance under 1 ohm)
Fig.15 Two Single Voice Coil Subwoofer (2~4 ohms)
For additional wiring information visit our website www.powerbassusa.com
SU BWOOFER
OUTPU T 1
SU BWOOFER
OUTPUT 2
XMA-2000D SPEAKER OUTPUT CONFIGURATIONS
1-OHM STABLE DESIGN Minimum Impedance Load is 1-Ohm