Power bass Xtreme XEQ-5X0 User manual

PARAMETRIC EQUALIZER/ PREAMP
Owners Manual
Please read through this manual to familiarize yourself with your new equalizer. Should your PowerBass
Xtreme equalizer ever require service, you will need to have the original dated receipt.
XEQ-5X0

Thank you and Congratulations
Thank you for your decision to purchase a PowerBass USA Parametric Equalizer with Subwoofer Output,
commonly called an EQ. A parametric equalizer is a high fidelity audio control that automatically adjusts the
bandwidth or “Q” as you change frequencies. The built-in preamplifier stage raises the signal level of your
head unit and increases the dynamic range of your system. All this housed in an attractive ½ DIN chassis with
a fully isolated DC to DC power supply.
PARAMETRIC EQUALIZER/PREAMP
This installation manual contains valuable information on how to get the most out of your new PowerBass AEQ-
5XO Parametric Equalizer. Designed and engineered using the latest in signal processing technology, virtually
any car stereo system will benefit from the addition of this unique and versatile product.
∆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 equip-
ment at high volume levels may impair your ability to hear external sounds such as horns, warning signals, or emergency vehicles—thus cre-
ating a potential traffic hazard. In the interest of safety, PowerBass USA highly recommends listening at lower volume levels when driving.
EQUALIZER
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FEATURES
Parametric Stereo Equalization with Variable Subwoofer: Combine these controls for maximum flexibil-
ity and “sweep” frequency to turn your dashboard into a mini-mixing board. This specially designed parametric
control gives you ultimate bass response.
Master Volume Control: This one knob allows the user to raise the volume on your source units to their
maximum level, eliminating the need to adjust multiple controls.
Selectable Dual Illumination: Switches the back lit illumination to either Red or Green.
Auxiliary Input Selector: The SOURCE switch on the front of the equalizer allows the user to switch back and
forth between two sources. If you are thinking about adding a video system, DVD player, or extra CD player this
feature makes hook-up easy and functional.
Fader Control: Allows easy balancing between the front and rear speakers when used with separate ampli-
fiers for the front and rear channels.
Pre-Amp Line Driver: Boosts the output voltage of your Radio (head unit) and increases it up to 20dB (10-13
volts peak) and then deliver it to the amplifier inputs.
Retractable Control Knobs: Allow you to adjust your settings and then “push in” to prevent accidental
movement.
INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE
Installation of your PowerBass mobile equalizer requires detailed knowledge of electronics wiring
and proper installation skills. 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.

1. FADER Control
This control adjusts the volume between the front and rear amplifier channels as desired. Front and rear
fading is now possible even with source units that have only two-channel outputs.
2. VOLUME Control
This control adjusts the output level of the system.
3. SOURCE Button
This faceplate switch selects the equalizer input source: RADIO (Head unit) input or a second AUX (Auxiliary)
as connected to the rear panel RCA style inputs.
4. ILLUMINATION
Backlit night illumination design with your choice of Red or Green color.
5. SUB VOL Control
The Subwoofer Volume control independently adjusts the output level of the woofer to a level you enjoy
(requires use of a dedicated woofer or bass amplifier connected to the rear RCA style inputs).
6. SUB FREQ Control
This control sometimes referred to as a “sweep” is variable between 30Hz to 120Hz. As you change frequen-
cies the Sub Vol control automatically adjusts bandwidth or “Q” to the optimum level.
7. PARAMETRIC EQUALIZER CONTROLS
These four rotary knobs control the frequency response by “boosting” or “cutting” the BASS, MID-BASS,
MID, and HIGH signals by 18dB. These controls can be used to fine tune your system to suit your taste and
listening environment.
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FRONT PANEL LAYOUT
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MOUNTING THE EQUALIZER
INSTALLATION PRECAUTIONS
NOTE: Proceed only if you are a qualified installer, otherwise; see your authorized Pow-
erbass 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.
• Check the mounting depth to make sure there is sufficient room around the EQ.
• When connecting ground points, make sure all paint is carefully scrapped away from the
auto body and contact is made 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 insu-
late the metal edges from the wire insulation.
• If possible, use tubing through grommets.
There are two basic mounting options for your PowerBass equalizer. One is to mount the unit
under the dash with the supplied brackets as shown below:
The other option is to cut a hole through a suitable panel in the dash for a built-in look. If you
choose the in-dash mounting method, be careful to cut the right size hole for the best appearance.
Also take care not to let your EQ and/or its cables interfere with other in-dash components.
Some dash kit manufacturers make a special kit for some vehicle models that will allow the
installation of the EQ with a DIN sized head unit. Check with your local PowerBass dealer for
additional information.
4.0ø WASHER
3.0ø WASHER
4.0ø SPRING WASHER
3.0ø SPRING WASHER
M4.0x15 TAPPING SCREW
M3.0x10 MACHINE SCREW

ADJUSTING THE PREAMP/EQUALIZER INPUT GAINS
Observe the Wiring Connections and hook-up the EQ according to the diagram which suits your
configuration. Before installing your PowerBass equalizer in the dash, the Input Gain controls on
your XEQ-5XO and your amplifier(s) must be matched. This level adjustment located on the top
panel of the EQ is very critical and if not done properly could cause significant damage to your
system. To properly balance the inputs follow these steps:
1. Turn all the gain controls on your amplifier(s) to a minimum.
2. Turn the Input Gains on the top of your XEQ-5XO all the way down (MIN).
3. Turn the front panel Master Volume on the XEQ-5XO all the way up.
4. Disconnect the Remote lead to all amps then, turn ON power to the system.
5. Turn up the volume control on the source unit to 80% of maximum volume.
6. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, slowly turn up the Input Gains on the top of the XEQ-5XO for the
selected input source until you hear distortion in your speakers. LISTEN CAREFULLY FOR WHEN YOUR
SPEAKERS START TO DISTORT. Then turn the Input Gain back slightly from the point where the distortion
began.
7. Turn the Master Volume control on the XEQ-5XO all the way down
8. Reconnect the remote leads to the amplifiers
9. Turn the Master Volume control the XEQ-5XO to the desired listening level.
NOTE: If two different Source units are used, repeat steps 5 and 6 for the other (AUX)
source unit, making sure the Input Selector switch is in the correct position for each
source.
The XEQ-5XO will have enough output to run most amplifiers to full power even when the ampli-
fier gain controls are in the minimum position. If the amplifier doesn’t seem to make full power
then its gain control may be turned up SLIGHTLY to each the desired level. Remember that the
gain control on the amplifier is a matching device. The lowest setting will allow it to make full
power is always the best for sound quality, low noise and reliability.
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1. Power Connections: Use the convenient Power Plug to wire up the Power, Ground and Re-
mote Turn-on as follows
+12 VDC: Insert an 18 gauge or larger wire into the plug for the 12 volt
(+) position. The other end should be connected to a good, fused, con-
stant 12V DC positive source.
GND: Use the same gauge wire as you did for the positive connection and
run it from the “Ground” connector to a good ground (-) location.
REM: Connect a 22 to 18 gauge wire from the Radio’s (head unit) remote
turn-on lead.
Once you have completed wiring the Power Plug, gently push it into the socket on
the rear panel of the PowerBass XEQ-5XO.
2. Input Jacks: The EQ has two sets of RCA style input jacks, RADIO and AUX. The radio inputs should get
their signals from the main source unit/head unit. The auxiliary inputs should get their inputs from a
secondary source such as a video player, DVD, etc.
3. Sub Output Jacks: Next to the inputs are the sub out RCA jacks which should be connected to a dedi-
cated subwoofer or bass amplifier, if applicable.
4. Output Jacks: This final set of RCA outputs are the jacks which should be connected to the front and
rear amplifiers, if applicable.
RCA INTERCONNECTS
Run all of the RCA cables from the amplifiers to the location of the PowerBass XEQ-5XO. Make sure all the
RCA cables are run on the opposite side of the vehicle from where you ran the power cables to the amplifiers.
Attach the RCA cables from the amplifiers to the corresponding Input/Output jacks on the rear panel of the
EQ; the Sub-woofer Output to the sub-woofer amplifier, the Rear Output to the rear amplifier, and the Front
Output to the front amplifier.
Next attach the RCA cable from the output of the source to the Radio Input on the rear of the equalizer.
NOTE: Always take care not to cross power wires with the RCA cables.
REAR PANEL HOOK UP

WIRING CONFIGURATIONS
As you may have already guessed, there are numerous ways to configure your PowerBass EQ into your audio
system. Spending a little time planning out your system will yield the most satisfying results. The following
diagrams are just a few of the possibilities:
ONE SOURCE/ONE AMPLIFIER
The PowerBass XEQ-5XO goes in the signal chain between the main head unit (or AUX) and the system’s
amplifiers. The most basic configuration will be with one source unit and one amplifier:
When only one source unit is used it really doesn’t matter which set of input jacks are used, but the Radio Input
Jacks are the most logical. Mast sure the input selector switch on the XEQ-5XO front panel is in the correct po-
sition. Likewise, if only one set of RCA cables are run to your amplifier(s), make sure the Fader control is turned
to the direction that gives you output to the jacks being used (clockwise for rear, counter-clockwise for front).
NOTE: If you are using a source unit that does not have RCA output (low level) jacks, a optional
Line Level (High/Low) Converter must be connected between the speaker output (high level) leads
and the XEQ-5XO. Direct connection of high level (speaker) outputs to the XEQ-5XO will damage
the source unit.
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RADIO / CD Single Amplifier
speakers
Red to DC +12V
Black to Car Chassis
ANT Lead Blue (control wire)

TWO SOURCE UNITS/ONE AMPLIFIER
Your XEQ-5XO has two separate inputs marked RADIO and AUX. The source units can be just about any kind
of units normally found in a car stereo system; video, video game, minidisk, portable CD, factory radio or
aftermarket radios with or without cassette or CD. This allows the use of two source units in a system. The
diagram below shows the correct wiring configuration when using two source units and one amplifier:
USING FRONT AND REAR OUTPUTS
When used in systems with separate amplifier channels for the front and rear speakers, run two sets of RCA
cables from the XEQ-5XO to the amplifiers. The following wiring configuration will allow for the use of the
built-in fader:
Single Amplifier
RADIO / CDVIDEO
speakers
Red to DC +12V
Black to Car Chassis
ANT Lead Blue (control wire)
Main Amplifier for
Rear output
Main Amplifier for
Front output
Red to DC +12V
Black to Car Chassis
ANT Lead Blue (control wire)
RADIO / CD
speakers
speakers

USING FRONT, REAR, AND SUB OUTPUTS
If you are using a dedicated subwoofer (bass) amplifier run RCA cables to that amplifier as shown (this will
allow use of the Subwoofer Volume control):
TURNING ON THE POWER
The XEQ-5XO has internal ON/OFF circuitry which responds to turning ON or OFF the head unit (radio) of your
car audio system. This requires that your head unit have a remote turn on lead available on the rear panel
(which most aftermarket radios have).
With this convenient remote turn-on/off feature, you never have to worry about turning off the power to the
equalizer when you shut off the audio system.
EQUALIZATION ADJUSTMENT
There are no strict rules to adhere to when setting the main equalizer controls. Common sense says to use
your PowerBass EQ to make your system sound its best. However, don’t try to push your system too hard by
overdriving the amplifiers and speakers resulting in damage to some of the components.
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Red to DC +12V
Black to Car Chassis
ANT Lead Blue (control wire)
RADIO / CDVIDEO
Main Amplifier for
Rear output
Main Amplifier for
Front output
Mono Amplifier for
Subwoofer output
Rear
speaker
Front
speaker
Subwoofer

EQUALIZER BAND RANGES
The equalizer portion of the XEQ-5Xo has four bands carefully placed across the audible spectrum to allow you
to boost or cut specific frequencies and fine-tune your system’s performance. Each band has a control which
moves its center frequency up and down to precisely target the portion of music you wish to control. Each band
also has a control that allows you to boost or cut information at the chosen frequency up to 18dB.
LOW: This control centers at 125Hz and should be used sparingly to avoid a boomy sound.
MID-BASS: This control centers at 500Hz and adjusts the core of music. Male voices, brass, electric guitars
and pianos are in this range. Because there is quite a bit of this “midrange” in most pop and rock (and some
rap), you may find less is more and choose to reduce this control more than you will boost it.
MID: The human ear is most sensitive to the octave centered at 2KHz, where this control is centered. Reduc-
ing it can prevent “audio fatigue” while boosting it will add presence and “attack”.
HIGH: This control is centered at 12KHz and adjusts up to 20KHz which is considered the upper end of what
the human ear can notice. Be careful not to set this control too high resulting in piercing treble.

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TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Problem Solution
No Sound 1. Check “Power” and remote turn-on for the proper
voltage.
2. Center the Fader Control
3. Turn up the “Input Gain” controls
4. Check the Ground connections
5. Push the “Source” button
Hiss 1. Turn down the amplifier gains
2. Adjust the Source unit output
3. Check for kinked or faulty RCA interconnect cables
Distorting Speakers 1. Adjust the equalization levels
2. Adjust gain levels
3. Lower the volume of the Source unit
4. See your Dealer
SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Response: 10Hz-50,000Hz
Pre Graphic Frequency: 40Hz, 200Hz, 2kHz, 20kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.05%
Signal to Noise Ratio: >80dB
Inputs: switchable, 2-source, 2-channel
Equalization Boost/Cut: -/+ 18dB
Subwoofer Frequency Range: 30Hz ~ 120Hz
Channel Separation: 80dB
Maximum Output Voltage: 10Vrms
Power Supply: 11-15V DC negative ground
Dimensions: Chassis 7”W x 1.125”H x 4”D
(177mm x 28mm x 101mm)
Mounting Depth: 4.625”D (117mm)
(Due to continuing improvement, features and specifications are subject to change without notice)
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 2009 PowerBass USA, Inc.

POWERBASS ELECTRONICS LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY
PowerBass USA, Inc. offers limited warranty on PowerBass products under normal use on the following terms:
PowerBass Xtreme Electronics 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:
• The vent is blown or leaking as a result of switched polarity
• Stripped screws or Terminals caused by over tightening
• Damage to the housing due to carelessness or improper installation
• Product that has not been installed according to this owner’s 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 Num-
ber) 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 $9.00 for
handling and diagnostic evaluation to:
PowerBass USA, Inc.,
Attn: Returns (RA#__________)
13936 Mountain Avenue, Chino, CA 91710
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.
Removed or altered serial numbers will void this warranty
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PowerBass Xtreme – A division of PowerBass USA, Inc.
13936 Mountain Avenue – Chino, CA 91710
Tel. [phone] – Fax [phone]
www.powerbassusa.com