Rockford Fosgate OEQ2 HIGH Guide

®®
INSTALLATION
& OPERATION
HIGH
PERFORMANCE
PARAMETRIC
EQUALIZER

Dear Customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of the world's finest brand of car audio signal
processors. At Rockford Fosgate we are committed to musical reproduction at its best,
andwearepleasedyouchoseourproduct.Throughyearsofengineeringexpertise,hand
craftsmanshipandcriticaltestingprocedures,wehavecreatedawiderangeofproducts
that reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.
For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford Fosgate
productinstalledbyanAuthorizedRockfordFosgateDealer,asweprovidespecialized
training through Rockford Technical Training Institute (RTTI). Please read your
warranty and retain your receipt and original carton for possible future use.
To add the finishing touch to your new Rockford Fosgate image order your Rockford
accessories,whichincludeeverythingfromT-shirtsandjacketstohatsandsunglasses.
To get a free brochure on Rockford Fosgate products and Rockford accessories, in the
U.S.call602-967-3565orFAX602-967-8132.Forallothercountries,call+001-602-
967-3565 or FAX [phone].
The serial number can be found on the outside of the box. Please record it in
the space provided below as your permanent record. This will serve as
verificationofyourfactorywarrantyandmaybecomeusefulinrecoveringyour
equipment if it is ever stolen.
Serial Number: ____________________
Model Number:____________________
If, after reading your manual, you still have questions regarding this product,
we recommend that you see your Rockford Fosgate dealer. If you need further
assistance, you can call us direct at 1-800-795-2385. Be sure to have your serial
number, model number and date of purchase available when you call.
PRACTICE SAFE SOUND™
CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS OVER
100dB MAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING LOSS. HIGH POW-
ERED AUTO SOUND SYSTEMS MAY PRODUCE SOUND PRES-
SURE LEVELS WELL OVER 130dB. USE COMMON SENSE AND
PRACTICE SAFE SOUND.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ............................................................................................1
Accessory Pack .......................................................................................1
Technical Design Features ......................................................................2
Design Features.......................................................................................3
Installation Considerations ......................................................................5
Mounting Location..................................................................................6
Wiring the System ...................................................................................6
OEQ2Installation....................................................................................8
OEQ2 Operation ...................................................................................13
System Diagrams...................................................................................16
Rockford Fosgate Accessories................................................................20
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................21
Specifications........................................................................................24
Warranty Information............................................................................25
International Information.......................................................................26
Sections marked
TROUBLESHOOTING
include recommendations
for curing
installation problems
Sections marked
INSTALLATION
include “slam dunk”
wiring connections
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Sections marked
ADVANCED OPERATION
include in-depth
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Welcome to Rockford Fosgate! This manual is designed to provide
informationfortheowner,salespersonandinstaller.Forthoseofyouwho
want quick information on how to install this product, please turn to the
InstallationSectionofthismanualorrefertotheiconslistedbelow.Other
information can be located by using the Table of Contents. We, at
RockfordFosgate,haveworkedveryhardtomakesurealltheinformation
in this manual is current. But, as we are constantly finding new ways to
improveourproduct,thisinformationissubjecttochangewithoutnotice.
GETTING STARTED

– 1 –
INTRODUCTION
The OEQ2is an octave equalizer used to help compensate for
acoustical inaccuracies common in the automobile environment.
The OEQ2is a stereo equalizer with ten bands of frequency adjust-
ment spaced at octave intervals. Each band can accommodate up to
12dB of boost or cut to overcome dips and peaks in the response
curve. Frequency Warp controls shift center frequencies half an
octaveupand halfanoctave down forpreciseadjustment. Inputand
output gains are utilized for proper gain settings while a pair of LED
monitors track input levels. The high output voltage available from
the OEQ2allows it to also be used as a line driver, and its low output
impedance supports the connection of several amplifiers without
signal degradation. The OEQ2is a versatile, high performance
equalizerwithconvenient featuresthat willfinetune anysystemand
help solve response problems.
ACCESSORY PACK
Installation and Operation Manual
(4) Mounting Screws
(1) Power Connector

TECHNICAL DESIGN FEATURES
◆High-Q Filters
Hi-Q filters are utilized for adjusting narrow frequency bands in an
equalizer. Filter “Q” or Quality Factor is a measure of the “narrow-
ness”ofthefilterresponse.UsingLow-Q(wide)filtersinanequalizer
allowsadjustmentsmade ononecontrol tostronglyeffect neighbor-
ing frequencies during boost or cut. Hi-Q filters avoid problems like
adjacent band overlap which minimize the time needed to remove
frequency response errors.
THE RESULT: Avoids adjacent band overlap through precise filtering.
◆Frequency Warp
TheFrequencyWarpcontrolsshiftthecenterfrequencyofeachband
higher or lower in frequency (up to 1/2 octave). This enables the
equalizer to pinpoint “dips” and “peaks” in the response curve. The
frequencywarpisusefulwhenusinganRTA(RealTimeAnalyzer)to
find and correct problems located between the equalizer's center
frequencies.
THE RESULT: Easier to equalize response errors by pinpointing
problem frequencies.
◆Balanced Line Inputs
Using the BLT (Balanced Line Transmitter) provides the last word in
achievable rejection of noise induced in the cable between the
source and the signal processor. The differential input circuitry used
inthebalancedinputsystemrejectswhateversignalsarecommonto
both of the shielded, twisted pair conductors. Balanced line is
universally used in concert installations where the stage and mixing
consoles are hundreds of feet apart. Long signal cables and electri-
cally-noisy environments make signal integrity and noise rejection
an extremely difficult challenge.
THE RESULT: Quiet transmission of audio from source to signal
processor.
– 2 –

DESIGN FEATURES
– 3 –
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RIGHT LEFT
LEFT
IN RIGHT IN GND B+ REM
BAL INRCA
BAL
BYPASS
ENGAGE
1432 12
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RIGHT LEFT
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BAL OUT
1. RCA Input Jacks – The industry standard RCA jacks provide easy
connections for signal level input. They are gold-plated to resist the
signal degradation caused by corrosion.
2. Balanced Line Input – This input will allow the optional Balanced
Line Transmitter to be used for better noise rejection.
3. Signal Input Switch– This switch allows selection of either RCA or
Balanced Line inputs.
4. Engage/Bypass Switch–ThisswitchenablestheOEQ2toprocessthe
signal or bypass the Boost/Cut and Frequency Warp controls for a
“dry” output.
5. Input Sensitivity Controls – The input sensitivity controls are preset
for 500mV which will match the output of most source units. They
can be adjusted to match input levels ranging from 500mV to 9.3V .
6. RCA Output Jacks – TheRCAOutputJacksprovideaparalleloutput
and are used to connect the signal to the next component's input
jacks.Theyaregold-platedtoresistthesignaldegradationcausedby
corrosion.
7. BalancedLine Output–Thebalancedoutputallowsabalancedline
cabletobeusedbetweentheoutputoftheOEQ2andtheinputofthe
next component to provide better noise rejection.

– 4 –
8. Output Level Attenuators – The Output Level Attenuators are
usedtocuttheoutputlevelformatchingtheinputoftheamplifier.
They can be adjusted to levels ranging from a minimum ratio of
1:0 (no output) to a maximum ratio of 1:1.
9. Boost/Cut Controls – Thesecontrolsprovide upto 12dBofboost
or cut to the selected frequency.
10. Frequency Warp Controls – These controls provide up to an
octaverange(1/2octaveupand1/2octavedown)fromthecenter
frequency to pinpoint “dips” and “peaks”.
11. LEDLevelIndicators–Thelevelindicatorsmonitortheinputlevel
oftheOEQ2.The indicators utilizegreen,amberand red LEDs to
represent low, high and maximum signal level.
12. Power Connector – The power connector provides a convenient
connection for ground, power and remote. The connector uses
“screw lock” terminals to secure the power wires and is remov-
able for quick disconnects.
13. B+Fuse–TheB+fuseprotectsthepowersupplyandbatteryfrom
short circuits and power failures.
14. DGND/AGND Jumper – This jumper is used for troubleshooting
systems which may exhibit noise due to ground loops or lack of
ground potential.
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– 5 –
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for installing
yournewOEQ2. Pre-planningyoursystemlayoutandbestwiringroutes
will save installation time. When deciding how to lay out your new
system,besurethateachcomponentwillbeeasilyaccessibleformaking
adjustments.
Before beginning any installation, be sure to follow these simple rules:
1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before
attempting to install the OEQ2.
2. For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
beginning the installation.
3. For easier assembly, we suggest you run all wires prior to mounting
your OEQ2in place.
4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any high
current wires.
5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to mini-
mize signal or power loss.
6. Thinkbeforeyoudrill! Becarefulnottocutordrillintogastanks,fuel
lines,brakeorhydrauliclines,vacuumlinesorelectricalwiringwhen
working on any vehicle.
7. Neverrunwiresunderneaththevehicle. Runningthewiresinsidethe
vehicle provides the best protection.
8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or
plastic grommets to protect any wires routed through metal, espe-
cially the firewall.
9. ALWAYSprotectthebatteryandelectricalsystemfromdamagewith
proper fusing. Install the appropriate fuseholder and fuse on the
+12V power wire within 18” (45.7 cm) of the battery terminal.
10. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle, scrape all paint from
the metal to ensure a good, clean ground connection. Grounding
connectionsshould beasshortaspossibleandalways beconnected
to metal that is welded to the main body, or chassis, of the vehicle.
The following is a list of tools you will need for installing the OEQ2
Red power wire Wire strippers
Blue remote turn-on wire Wire cutters
Black grounding wire Voltmeter
Electric hand drill w/assorted bits Jeweler'sslottedscrewdriver
Battery post wrench

MOUNTING LOCATION
The mounting location for the OEQ2should allow easy access to the
controlsformakingnecessaryadjustments.TheOEQ2willmostlikelybe
adjusted only at the time of installation and will not need further
adjustmentunlesschangestotheaudiosystemareperformed.Toensure
optimum performance, care should be taken when mounting the equal-
izer in the following locations:
Engine Compartment
MountingtheOEQ2intheenginecompartmentwillvoidyourwarranty.
Theonlythingthatshouldbemountedintheenginecompartmentisthat
big metal thing that makes the vehicle go fast.
Passenger Compartment Mounting
Mounting the equalizer in the passenger compartment will provide easy
access for making adjustments by ear. Select an area which is free from
excessive dirt or dust. If mounting under the seat, be sure the OEQ2will
avoid misadjustment from driver or passenger seat movement.
Trunk Mounting
Mounting the equalizer in the trunk will provide easy access for making
adjustmentswithan RTA (Real TimeAnalyzer)and pink noise. Selectan
area which will avoid possible damage or misadjustment from loading
andunloadingitems suchas groceries,golfclubs andpackagesfrom the
trunk.
– 6 –
WIRING THE SYSTEM
For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the car battery prior to
beginning the installation.
1. Wire the Power Connector
TheB+leadshouldbeconnectedtoasourceofnon-switched12volts
DC.Preparea lengthof cablefromthe constant+12Vby stripping3/8"
of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the bared wire into the B+
terminal of the power connector and fasten the screw.
NOTE:TheB+leadoftheaudiosystemMUSTbefused18"orlessfrom
the vehicle's battery. Install a fuseholder, along with the necessary
fuse, under the hood. Connections should be water tight.
The REM lead should be connected to the remote turn-on or power
antennaoutputfromthesourceunit.Preparealengthofcablefromthe
sourceofswitchedvoltagebystripping3/8"ofinsulationfromtheend

of the wire. Insert the bared wire into the REM terminal of the power
connector and fasten the screw. Total current consumption through
this lead is negligible.
The GND lead should be connected to the chassis ground of the
vehicle.Preparealengthofcable(approximately12"long)tobeused
for the ground lead by stripping 3/8" of insulation from each end.
Insert one end of bared wire into the GND terminal of the power
connector and fasten the screw. Prepare the chassis ground by
scraping any paint from the metal surface and thoroughly clean the
area of all dirt and grease. Strip the other end of the wire and attach
aringconnector.Fastenthecabletothechassisusinganon-anodized
screw and star washer.
2. Connect the Source Inputs
To accept RCA inputs, the signal input switch should be OUT.
Connect the front RCA outputs from the source unit to the “LEFT IN”
and “RIGHT IN” connectors on the OEQ2.
ToacceptBalancedLineInputs,thesignalinputswitchshouldbeIN.
Connect the front RCA outputs from the source unit to the inputs on
the BLT. Connect the balanced line cable from the BLT to the “BAL
IN” connector on the OEQ2.
3. Connect the Outputs
ConnecttheappropriateoutputsfromtheOEQ2tothecorresponding
inputs on the amplifier(s) or signal processor(s). For greater system
flexibility,alloutputs from theOEQ2areconfiguredin parallel (refer
to the System Diagrams section of this manual for examples).
4. Adjust System Levels
Set the gain controls on the amplifier(s) as well as the input gain and
output attenuators on the OEQ2to minimum. Adjust all Boost/Cut
and Frequency Warp controls to their center position. Adjust 1kHz
Boost/Cut to maximum. Using a 1kHz test tone recorded at ”0dB” or
“all bits high,” adjust the source unit for its maximum unclipped
output.AdjusttheinputsensitivityontheOEQ2untilthefirstredLED
ontheOEQ2startstoilluminate.Stopthetesttoneanddonotreadjust
thevolumecontrol.Readjust1kHzonBoost/Cuttoitscenterposition.
Playamusicaltrackwithhighdynamiccontentandadjusttheoutput
attenuators on the OEQ2to the desired output level (be sure Left and
Right channels are matched). Typically, the amplifier gain controls
will be left at minimum for optimum signal-to-noise ratio. For more
information on adjusting system levels, refer to the Installation
section of this manual.
– 7 –