RetroSound Technophonic User manual

USER’S MANUAL
Technophonic
5-Channel Amplifier
MODERN SOUND FOR YOUR CLASSIC

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Welcome............................................ 2
What’s in the Box .................................. 3
Precautions ........................................ 4
Mounting the Amplifier ............................. 6
Power and Ground Connections ....................... 7
Fuses.............................................. 9
Wiring: RCA | 5 Channel ............................ 10
Wiring: Speaker Connections | 5 Channel ............ 11
Wiring: Speaker Connections | Bridged .............. 12
Controls ........................................... 13
Mode Select Switch ................................. 15
Troubleshooting .................................... 16
Specifications ..................................... 17
Warranty........................................... 18
Table of Contents

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Thank you for purchasing a RetroSound® Technophonic
5-channel amplier.
General Features
• 5-channel amplifier
• Full-range Class D digital circuitry
• 65-watt RMS x 4 channels full-range @ 4 ohms
(95-watts RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms)
• 225-watts RMS x 1 channel subwoofer @ 4 ohms
(330-watts RMS @ 2 ohms)
• Selectable input mode switch for 2, 4, and 5 channel operation
• Bridgeable
• 2-ohm and 4-ohm stable
• Built-in variable low pass and high pass filters
• Bass boost (0-12db) and remote gain control
• Advanced circuitry and thermal protection
• Easily connects to your RetroSound radio
• Works with any aftermarket radio with low-level RCA outputs
• Dimensions: 12.9 in x 5.3 in x 1.87 in (33 cm x 13.4 cm x 4.75 cm)
• Fuse Rating: 60-amp
The information enclosed in this user’s manual is to be used as a guide to assist you with
installation and operation of your amplier. This guide does not cover every installation
possibility, vehicle, or aspect of the installation process.
Retro Manufacturing, LLC, RetroSound®, or its subsidiaries assume no responsibility for
any installation. Due to continuing improvements, features and specications are subject
to change without notice. This manual may be updated from time to time without notice.
Visit our website for the latest updates: help.retromanufacturing.com.
Welcome

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The items shown below are packaged with your Techno-
phonic amplier.
What’s in the box
Large Metal Screw (x4)
(for mounting the amplifier) (for mounting the Remote Gain Control)
Small Metal Screw (x4)
Technophonic Amplifier
Remote Gain ControlHex Wrench (x2)

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PLEASE OBSERVE THESE PRECAUTIONS WHEN INSTALLING AND
USING THIS UNIT:
This user’s manual does not cover all possible installation scenarios.
Please be sure to follow the instructions carefully while attempting instal-
lation. If you feel you cannot install this unit yourself, consult with a local
car audio professional.
Retro Manufacturing, LLC is not liable for any problems resulting
from improper installation of the unit.
If you have questions about installing your amplifier, contact us at
[e-mail] or visit our help site at
help.retromanufacturing.com
• IMPORTANT: This amplifier is designed for operation in vehicles with
12 volt DC negative ground systems only.
• Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal from your vehicle’s battery
before installation.
• Ensure adequate clearance around the amplifier’s heat sinks for prop-
er air flow. If you’re mounting the amplifier near the radio, always main-
tain at least 2 to 5 inches of clearance between the radio and amplifier.
• Never mount the amplifier directly to the radio body.
• Never install the unit in a location where it interferes with your field of
vision.
• Never install the unit in a place in which the amplifier could injure the
driver or passengers if the vehicle suddenly stops.
• Never install the unit upside down. Mounting upside down will compro-
mise heat dissipation and engage its protection circuitry.
• If the unit does not turn on, check all wiring first. Then check the fuse
in your vehicle’s fuse panel and the two fuses in the unit. If either fuse
has failed, eliminate the cause of the failure, and replace the fuse with
one prescribed for this unit.
Precautions

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• Do not disassemble or modify the unit or attempt to repair it yourself.
If your unit is not working properly please consult your dealer or Retro
Manufacturing, LLC.
• This unit is not designed for a marine environment. Please do not use
the unit where it will be exposed to moisture or excessive dust. Expo-
sure to moisture will damage the unit and void your warranty.
• Use caution when routing wires to prevent them from being caught in
the vehicle’s chassis. Screws and moving parts such as seat rails can
cause damage to the wiring if improperly routed.
• Never splice into the power lead to supply other equipment with power.
• After installation and wiring, always check the normal operation of oth-
er electrical equipment.
• Make sure that no wires interfere with driving or getting in and out of the
vehicle. Insulate all exposed wires to prevent short-circuiting or electric
shock.
• Keep the volume of your radio at a level that allows you to hear outside
noises, such as emergency sirens and train crossing warnings. Pro-
longed exposure to high volume levels may also result in hearing loss.
The following tools may be required for your installation:
• Electric Drill with Bits
• Phillips Screwdriver
• Standard Screwdriver
• Wire Strippers
• Wire Crimper
• Utility Knife
• Digital Multi-Meter
Precautions

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Mounting The Amplifier
It is best to mount the amplifier in a location that allows air to freely circulate
around it and allows access to the end panel controls for adjustments.
Although both thermal and overload protection are built in, if the amplifier
overheats it will reduce its power output to maintain operation.
Find a dry, clear and well-ventilated area in which to mount the amplifier.
The area should be free of any obstructions that might block air flow to the
amplifier. It should be protected from exposure to direct sunlight.
You may use the amplifier as a template to mark the four screw locations
with a felt-tip marker. Set the amplifier aside before drilling the mounting
holes. Use caution to make certain there are no objects behind the
installation area that may become damaged by drilling. Use the four
large metal screws to mount the amplifier. Make sure the amplifier has at
least two to five inches of clearance above the heatsink to allow for heat
dissipation.
Leave 2” to 5” of clearance
for proper airflow.

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Power and Ground Connections
Electrical System Test
The Technophonic amplifier is designed to work within a range of 12 volts
to 14.4 volts DC. Before connecting any wiring, use a multi-meter to test
the vehicle’s electrical system for adequate power supply. First, check the
voltage at the battery with the ignition in the off position. The multi-meter
should read no less than 12 volts. Next, check voltage at the battery with
the engine running. The multi meter should show a reading between 12
and 14.4 volts. If your vehicle’s electrical system does not fall within these
parameters, consult an auto electrician before proceeding with the instal-
lation.
The Technophonic utilizes a very efficient digital Class D design. For most
installations 8 gauge power and ground primary wire is suitable. For runs
longer than 13 feet, use a thicker gauge wire.
Making Proper Speaker Connections
The Technophonic amplifier speaker out-
puts will accept 16AWG - 14 AWG wire.
For best possible connections, strip 1/2
inch (12 mm) of insulation from the end
of each wire and twist the ends. Back
out the set screws 3/4 of the way out and
insert the wire firmly and complete-
ly, leaving no exposed wire. Use the
supplied hex wrench to tighten the set
screws until snug, do not over-tighten.
Ensure each positive and negative
wire is inserted into the correct + or
- terminals.
Bolt
Star Washer
Ground Wire
Ring Connector
Vehicle Chassis
Bare Metal
Grounding Example
NOTE: Remove any paint below the ring
connector for proper grounding.

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Power and Ground Connections
Constant 12 volt (+) Battery Wire
The constant 12 volt (+) battery wire (not included) should be wired directly to
the vehicle’s positive (+) battery terminal using 8 to 4 gauge primary wire de-
pending on run length. Start at the vehicle’s battery, and run the cable back
to the amplifier. Avoid running the wire over engine components and heater
cores. The use of an in-line fuse (not included) is required at the positive (+)
battery terminal. Connect the fuse holder as close to the battery as possible
(within 6-8 inches of the positive (+) battery terminal). This fuse should be 60
amps. Leave the fuse out until the final connections have been made.
Ground (-) Black Wire
Locate a metal area as close to the amplifier as possible (preferably the floor
pan or vehicle chassis). The ground wire should be made using the same
gauge wire as the power connection and be a short as possible. Use a wire
brush or sandpaper to eliminate any paint for a better ground connection.
Secure the ground wire to the vehicle using a bolt, star washer and nut (not
included). See the diagram at the bottom of page 7 for a close-up of a correct
ground connection.
Remote Wire
Connect the remote wire to your radios remote turn-on lead.
60-amp fuse
(not included)
Connect to remote
Turn-on Lead +12 Volt
(16-18 gauge)
Connect to ground
Negative Ground (8-4 gauge)
Connect ground to chassis or
frame close to the amp.
Connect to battery
CONSTANT +12 Volt (8-4 gauge)

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Fuses
Installing a 60-amp in-line fuse near the battery on the + 12 Volt lead is
required to protect your vehicles wiring and the amplifier. A high-quality
barrel fuse holder and 60-amp mini-ANL fuse are available in RetroSound®
Amplifier Wiring kits.
Always check the external fuse for failure first, then the internal fuses on
the bottom of the amplifier. The internal fuses will only blow if the external
fuse fails .
The fuses included with the Technophonic amplifier are to replace the
internal fuses and only protect the amplifier itself in case of short-circuit. To
replace the internal fuses, remove the panel on the bottom of the amplifier
and replace the blown fuses as needed. Use only 35-amp fuses.
Remove the two small screws
from the panel cover to
replace the internal fuses.
A 60-amp in-line fuse is
required on the + 12 Volt lead
(not included).
Fuse Holder and 60-amp mini-ANL
Fuse are available in RetroSound®
Amplifier Wiring Kits

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Wiring: RCA Connections | 5 Channel
Connect the Technophonic amplifier directly to your RetroSound® radio
using the RCA outputs. The front RCA outputs connect to channels 1 and
2 on the amplifier. The rear RCA outputs connect to channels 3 and 4. The
RCA outputs for the subwoofer connect to both inputs on channel 5 of the
Technophonic amplifier. For radios with only 2 or 4 outputs use the mode
select switch (see page 15).
from radio
harness

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Wiring: Speaker Connections | 5 Channel
For five speaker systems, connect the speakers to channels 1-5. Strip 1/2
inch (12 mm) of insulation from the end of each wire and twist the ends.
Back out the set screws 3/4 of the way out and insert each wire firmly and
completely, leaving no exposed wire. Ensure each wire is inserted into
the proper positive or negative terminals. Use the supplied hex wrench to
tighten the set screws until snug, do not over-tighten.
Insert the bare wire completely into the
receptacle and tighten with the hex wrench.
Left Front Speaker
(2 or 4 ohm)
Right Front Speaker
(2 or 4 ohm)
Left Rear Speaker
(2 or 4 ohm)
Right Rear Speaker
(2 or 4 ohm)
SUBWOOFER
(2 or 4 ohm)

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The Technophonic amplifier is bridgeable. The diagram above the channel
labels on the rear of the amplifier illustrates the bridged connection paths.
Bridge CH1 with CH2, and CH3 with CH4. Connect the first bridged speaker
to the positive terminal on channel 1 and negative terminal on channel 2.
Connect the second bridged speaker to the positive terminal on channel 3
and the negative terminal on channel 4. The subwoofer connects to channel
both 5 inputs. The Technophonic amplifier is 2 ohm and 4 ohm stable.
Wiring: Speaker Connections | Bridged
Insert the bare wire completely into the
receptacle and tighten with the hex wrench.
Left Front Speaker
(2 or 4 ohm)
Right Front Speaker
(2 or 4 ohm)
SUBWOOFER
(2 or 4 ohm)

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Controls
A. High Pass Filter (HPF)
The HPF (adjustable between 40Hz and 400Hz) filters out high frequencies
below the designated setting on the amplifier while attenuating frequencies
above that setting.
B. Low Pass Filter (LPF)
The LPF (adjustable between 50Hz and 250Hz) filters out low frequencies
above the designated setting on the amplifier while attenuating frequencies
below that setting.
C. Mode
The Mode Select Switch toggles the input mode of the amplifier between
2-channel, 4 channel, and 5-channel operation (see page 15).
• When set to 2CH, only input channels 1 and 2 will be active
▫ Channels 3 and 4 will be created internally for output.
• When set to 4CH, only input channels 1 - 4 will be active
▫ Channel 5 will be created internally for output.
• When set to 5CH, all input channels active.
D. Bass Boost
The Bass Boost increases the decibel level of the bass at 50Hz. The Bass
Boost control adjusts between 0db (no boost) and 12db (maximum boost).
A
DE
BC

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Controls
E. Gain Controls
This control is used to match the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the
radio. The Gain Control is not a volume control. Use the source unit (radio)
to control system volume. Use these steps to properly set all three gains:
1. 1. Set the Gain Control to minimum by turning the control knobs
completely counter clockwise.
2. 2. On the Radio, set the bass and treble to zero, and adjust the volume
to approximately 2/3 of maximum.
3. 3. Slowly increase the amplifier’s gain by turning the knob clockwise
until the sound has just begun to distort. Then turn the knob counter
clockwise until the distortion goes away. This will allow the amplifier to
operate at maximum efficiency.
Failure to follow these steps could result in damaged speakers and/
or amplifier.
F. Remote
The Remote input is where the Remote Gain Control connects to the
amplifier. The Remote Gain Control can be mounted to a convenient location
and allows the user to reduce the gain on channel 5. This is particularly
useful when listening to poorly recorded music or live recordings where the
bass frequencies may be louder than normal.
Adjusting this control will adjust between the minimum level of gain up to
the point where the amplifier is currently set. When set to MAX, the gain will
be equal to the setting on the amplifier.
REMOTE GAIN
F

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Mode Select Switch
The Technophonic amp can be set to two, four or five channel mode to
match the number of outputs the connected radio has. When set to two or
four channel modes the amplifier will create the additional outputs internally
so all five outputs can be used.
CH1 CH2 CH3 CH4 CH5
5-Channel Operation
If using five channels of input place the mode
switch in 5CH position. 5-Channel mode allows for
full balance and fader control on all four full -range
speaker outputs and any control the radio offers
via the subwoofer outputs.
4-Channel Operation
If your radio only has four low level RCA outputs,
place the mode switch in 4CH position. The Amp
will create the 5th subwoofer output channel
internally. 4-Channel mode allows for control of the
sub channel via the remote gain control.
2-Channel Operation
If only using two channel inputs or if the radio only
has two outputs place the mode switch in 2CH
position. The Amp will create the 3rd, 4th, and 5th
channels internally. 2-Channel mode only allows
for control of the right and left balance on two and
four channel sets with no fading between. The
5th channel can be controlled via the remote gain
control.
When using the amp in any of the mode selections, adjust gains and filter
points as needed.
CH1 CH2 CH3 CH4
CH1 CH2

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Troubleshooting
Problem Solution
Green Power LED
does not turn on
• Check to ensure that the Battery (+)(12
volt constant) wire has 12 to 14.4 volts.
• Check to ensure that the amplifier
turn-on lead has 12 volts.
• Check the fuses at bottom of the
amplifier. (35-amp ATC style)
Red Protect LED
illuminates
• Advanced protection circuitry
is engaged due to high internal
temperature of the amplifier. The
amplifier needs more clearance around
the chassis. If this continues, choose a
better ventilated mounting location.
• High operating temperature can
also be caused by an incorrect input
sensitivity level. Reset the Gain Control.
The amplifier becomes
very hot and shuts
down or plays at a very
low volume
• Thermal protection is engaged.
Check for proper impedance at speaker
terminals and air flow around the
amplifier.
• Voltage protection is engaged. Voltage
to the amplifier is not within the 12 to
14.4 volt operating range. Inspect the
charging system.
• Short-circuit protection is engaged.
Check for speaker wires shorted to each
other or the vehicle chassis.
Alternator noise that
varies with RPM
• Check for damaged RCA cables.
• Check the radio and amplifier ground.
• Turn down the amplifier Gain setting.
Poor bass response • Speakers are out of phase. Ensure
that positive and negative speaker
terminals are wired correctly.

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AmplierAmplier
Full-Range Output Power ................65 Watts x 4 channels RMS @ 4 ohms
Subwoofer Power Output ..........................225 Watts x 1 channel @ 4 ohms
Full-Range Output Power ................95 Watts x 4 channels RMS @ 2 ohms
Subwoofer Power Output ..........................330 Watts x 1 channel @ 2 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio ...........................................................................>95dB
Input Sensitivity ................................................................... 200 mV-6.0 volts
Full-Range Frequency Response ..............................................24Hz-65KHz
Subwoofer Frequency Response .............................................. 24Hz-250Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion ...................................<0.2% @ 65 watts x 4 RMS
Bass Boost ........................................................................... 0-12dB @ 50Hz
FiltersFilters
Low Pass Filter Frequency Range .......................................... 50Hz - 250Hz
High Pass Filter Frequency Range .......................................... 40Hz - 400Hz
Filter Slope .............................................................................................24dB
Other SpecicationsOther Specications
Fuses* (Internal) .........................................................35-amp ATC Style (x2)
Size (W x H x L) .......12.9 in x 5.3 in x 1.87 in (33 cm x 13.4 cm x 4.75 cm)
*An additional 60-amp fuse (not included) must be used on the Battery (+)
wire at the battery. The fuse must be placed as close as possible to the
positive (+) battery terminal (within 6-8 inches away).
NOTE: All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Specifications

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Your unit comes with a manufacturer's warranty covering any defects in materials and
workmanship. Retro Manufacturing, LLC (collectively referred to as "the warranter"), at
its option, will either (a) repair your unit with new or refurbished parts or (b) replace it with
a new or refurbished unit. The warranty period starts from the original purchase date and
is valid for the length of time indicated in the chart below. The decision to repair or replace
will be made by the warranter.
ITEMITEM WARRANTYWARRANTY
Technophonic One (1) Year
During the "Parts" warranty period, there will be no charge for parts. You must mail in your
unit during the warranty period at your expense. This warranty only applies to products
purchased directly from Retro Manufacturing or an authorized dealer. This warranty
is extended only to the original purchaser of a new product that was not sold "as is."
A purchase receipt or other proof of the original purchase date is required for warranty
service.
To handle a warranty issue go to www.retromanufacturing.com/returns-center and fill
out the Returns Form to receive a Return Authorization (RA) number. A RA number must
accompany all returns and warranty issues. Any product received without a RA number
will be refused.
LIMITED WARRANTY-LIMITS AND EXCLUSIONS
This warranty ONLY COVERS failures due to defects in materials and workmanship and
DOES NOT COVER normal wear and tear or cosmetic damage. The warranty ALSO
DOES NOT COVER damages that occurred during shipment, failures which are caused
by products not supplied by the warranter, failures that result from accident, misuse,
abuse, neglect, bug infestation, mishandling, misapplication, alteration, faulty installation,
set-up adjustment, maladjustment of consumer control, improper maintenance,
improper antenna, inadequate signal reception or pickup, power line surge, improper
voltage supply, lightning, modification, commercial use (such as use in hotels, offices,
restaurants, or other business uses) or rental use of the product, or service by anyone
other than Retro Manufacturing, LLC, or damage that is attributable to acts of God.
THERE ARE NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES EXCEPT AS LISTED UNDER
LIMITED WARRANTY. THE WARRANTER IS NOT LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS UNIT
OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY. (As examples, this
excludes damages for lost time, the cost of having someone remove or re-install an
installed unit if applicable, travel to and from the servicer, and loss of media, data, or
other memory contents. The items listed are not exclusive but are for illustration only.)
ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, ARE LIMITED TO THE PERIOD OF THE LIMITED WARRANTY.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the exclusions may not
apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state. If a problem with this unit develops during or after the
warranty period, you may contact your dealer or Retro Manufacturing, LLC.
Warranty

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MODERN SOUND FOR YOUR CLASSIC
7470 Commercial Way | Henderson, NV 89011
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Published: 02/10/2023 | ©2023 Retro Manufacturing, LLC