U.S. Amps Amp Programming manual

Owners’ Manual
and
Installation
Guide
Owners’ Manual
and
Installation
Guide
HAND - CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND - CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.

This manual is written for the experienced installer.
If you are unfamiliar with the terminology and concepts within, we strongly recommend
you seek the assistance of an Authorized U.S. Amps Dealer or other car audio professional.
Authorized Dealers can be located on the U.S. Amps website: , or by
calling the factory Monday-Friday at (352)-338-1926, 9am to 5pm EST.
Please read it in it’s entirety before
installation.
www.usamps.com
Did you buy the right U.S. Amp?
Amplifier Nomenclature:
There is a U.S. Amp for every purpose. If your needs require maximum amplifier power into 4 or 2
ohms per channel, or 4 ohms bridged, use one of the Xterminator “X” models for the best results.
If you have more than a pair of speakers, or if the speakers have multiple voice coils, you may need
the extra current and low impedance stability of the USA Series. The USA Series develops maximum
output when used at 1 ohm per channel or 2 ohms bridged.
If you participate in sound-off events, the “HC” and “VLX” amplifiers are designed to operate at ultra-
low impedances. U.S. Amps has an established track record of success in SPL and sound quality
competition.
With the exception of the Xterminators, The amplifier model numbers indicate the total power of
when rated at 4 ohms.
The Xterminator models are based on the USA Series, but have a higher 4 ohm per channel
power rating. The “X” model nomenclature indicates the power into 4 ohms.
all
channels combined
per channel
Did you buy the right U.S. Amp?
Amplifier Nomenclature:
Thank-you for choosing U.S. Amps! You have purchased the finest product of its type available.
Each U.S. Amp is built in our Gainesville Florida factory. Nothing is done "off shore" or
across the border. You won't just to your U.S. Amp, you will it.
When properly installed, this unit will provide years of trouble-free service..
Remember, , and enjoy your U.S. Amp!
by hand
listen experience
protect your hearing
Thank-you for choosing U.S. Amps! You have purchased the finest product of its type available.
Each U.S. Amp is built in our Gainesville Florida factory. Nothing is done "off shore" or
across the border. You won't just to your U.S. Amp, you will it.
When properly installed, this unit will provide years of trouble-free service..
Remember, , and enjoy your U.S. Amp!
by hand
listen experience
protect your hearing
2
Contents
Installation 3 USA-50HC, USA-150,150x, USA-300, 300x 13
Active Electronic Crossovers 4 USA-5500x 15
Amplifier Power and Fuse 6 USA-400, 400x, VLX-25, USA-100HC 17
Getting Wired 7 Factory Service 18
Batteries 7 Limited Warranty 18
Energy Management 9 Never, Never Land 19
Amplifier Specifications 10 Other Cool Stuff 19
USA-50, USA-100 11
Contents

3
INSTALLATION
Amplifier Mounting:
Ventilation:
Amplifier and Crossover Input:
Choose an appropriate location to mount the amplifier(s). Make sure your choice is free
from excess heat, moisture, and vibration. Under the vehicle seat or in the trunk are common
mounting locations. Be sure the amplifier receives adequate ventilation to it’s heat sink and is
positioned away from flying luggage and people’s feet. Do not mount the amplifier directly to
speaker enclosures.
It is important to provide the amplifier with adequate ventilation to remove heat from the
amplifier heat sink. During high performance applications, in which the amplifier may be exposed
to low impedance loads, it may be necessary to provide external ventilation via a fan or some other
means. With proper ventilation, the “run time” of the amplifier between thermal protection cycles
can be greatly extended.
U.S. Amps feature a unique isolated input section that will accept signal voltages from 250
mv to 10 volts. The input section also provides amplifier ground isolation for the prevention of system
and engine noise. The unique configuration of the U.S. Amps input necessitates a correct input
ground, and is not compatible with external ground-isolation devices.
INSTALLATION
Amplifier Mounting:
Ventilation:
Amplifier and Crossover Input:
Signal Level (BTL) Input:
Gain Control Adjustment:
This product will accept line and signal level, and can be used with most BTL “high powered”
sources. To use a BTL source, observe the following:
BTL outputs have two “hot” non-grounded leads per channel. Select ONE per channel,
and connect it to the “center conductor” of the RCA input cables going to the amplifier input.
Insulate and disregard the second wire of each BTL output pair.
Ground the shield wires of the RCA cable to the metal body of the source unit.
1)
2)
3)
Always start with the gain control fully counter-clockwise (all the way down), or just slightly
open. Adjust the source unit volume as high as possible without distortion. Increase the amplifier
gain until the amplifier distorts, then turn the gain down slightly until the signal becomes clear. It is
desirable to operate the amp at the lowest possible gain setting to help reject spurious system noise.
Signal Level (BTL) Input:
Gain Control Adjustment:
1)
2)
3)
The input of a U.S. Amp MUST be grounded for proper amplifier operation.
The use of external ground isolation dividing devices is unnecessary
and may cause severe amplifier and / or system damage.
The input of a U.S. Amp MUST be grounded for proper amplifier operation.
The use of external ground isolation dividing devices is unnecessary
and may cause severe amplifier and / or system damage.
IMPORTANT NOTICEIMPORTANT NOTICE

US-X2
US-X2
ACTIVE ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER
MODEL US-X2
MADE IN
FLORIDA,
U. S. A.
FREQUENCY
OUTPUT GAIN BASS BOOST
LOW HIGH
INPUT
LOW PASS
LEFT
LEFT
LEFT
RIGHT
RIGHT
RIGHT
HIGH PASS
AMP REMOTE
REMOTE
GROUND
POWER
4
US-X2R
US-X2R
o
POWER
LOW PASS FREQUENCY
REAR HIGH FREQUENCY
FRONT HIGH FREQUENCY
BASS BOOST
REAR GAIN
FRONT GAIN
INPUT
BASS
GAIN
DUAL (FADE)
SINGLE
MODEL US-X2R
Active Electronic Crossover
MIFADE N LORIDA,
U. S. A.
MIFADE N LORIDA,
U. S. A.
!
GROUND
GROUND
To the Vehicle
Chassis
GROUND
POWER
POWER Fuse
at 3 Amps
POWER
REMOTE
REMOTE Positive 12
Volt Trigger From Source
REMOTE
REMOTE BASS GAIN
AMP REMOTE
AMP REMOTE Positive 12
Volt Trigger to Amplifiers
AMP REMOTE
REMOTE
BASS GAIN
Install in
Vehicle
Passenger
Compartment
REMOTE
BASS GAIN
LOW PASS OUTPUT
REAR HIGH PASS OUTPUT FRONT HIGH PASS OUTPUT
REAR INPUT
FRONT INPUT
HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A. HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A. HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.
LOW PASS
OUTPUT
Adjustable
0-9 Volts,
50-500Hz
LOW PASS
OUTPUT
LOW PASS (Bass)
GAIN: Sets the level of
low pass ouput and
regulates the range of
the Remote Bass Gain
LOW PASS (Bass)
GAIN:
LOW PASS (Bass)LOW PASS (Bass)
low pass output and
regulates the range of
the Remote Bass Gain
SINGLE / DUAL INPUT
SWITCH: US-X2R will
accept input from dual
RCA pairs to “fade”
(as shown) Mid / High
levels from front to rear
SINGLE / DUAL INPUT
SWITCH:
REAR MID / HI
OUTPUT
Adjustable
0-9 Volts,
50-500Hz
REAR MID / HI
OUTPUT
FRONT MID / HI
OUTPUT
Adjustable
0-9 Volts,
50-500Hz
FRONT MID / HI
OUTPUT
Source Unit
Front Mid / High
Input Gain
Front Mid / High
Input Gain
Front Mid / High
Rear Mid /High
Low Pass
Crossover
frequency
adjustments
Front Mid / High
Rear Mid /High
Low Pass
REAR Mid / High
Input Gain
REAR Mid / High
Input Gain
Variable Bass Boost
65Hz-0to20Db
Variable Bass Boost
Power LEDPower LED
ACTIVE ELECTRONIC CROSSOVERSACTIVE ELECTRONIC CROSSOVERS
The US-X2 and US-X2R are two-way crossovers that “split” the full-range
audio signal into two groups of frequencies- high and low. Each group
is sent to a dedicated amplifier, which in turn, powers a speaker or
speakers that are best suited to play those frequencies.
Both units have independent controls to adjust the “roll-off” of the high
and low frequencies from 50Hz to 500Hz at 12 Db per octave.
The US-X2 and US-X2R are two-way crossovers that “split” the full-range
audio signal into two groups of frequencies- high and low. Each group
is sent to a dedicated amplifier, which in turn, powers a speaker or
speakers that are best suited to play those frequencies.
Both units have independent controls to adjust the “roll-off” of the high
and low frequencies from 50Hz to 500Hz at 12 Db per octave.
The US-X2R comes with an
optional “Remote Bass Gain”
or “RBG” that can be
mounted in the passenger
compartment to
independently attenuate the
low pass output. The Bass
Gain located on the cut-
away side of the unit is used
both to set the level of the
low pass output and control
the range of the RBG. It
does not matter which way
The US-X2R comes with an
optional “Remote Bass Gain”
or “RBG” that can be
mounted in the passenger
compartment to
independently attenuate the
low pass output. The Bass
Gain located on the cut-
away side of the unit is used
both to set the level of the
low pass output and control
the range of the RBG. It
does not matter which way
The low frequency control limits the high frequency response of the low pass output, and the
high frequency control limits the low frequency response of the high pass output. Both units
feature a variable Bass Boost that emphasizes frequencies in the 65Hz range up to 20Db. The US-
X2R is a more featured unit with dual inputs and high pass outputs that can be
independently adjusted. The US-X2R will “fade” between two mid and high amps, but if only one
input pair is available, the dual input can be defeated.
two
The low frequency control limits the high frequency response of the low pass output, and the
high frequency control limits the low frequency response of the high pass output. Both units
feature a variable Bass Boost that emphasizes frequencies in the 65Hz range up to 20Db. The US-
X2R is a more featured unit with dual inputs and high pass outputs that can be
independently adjusted. The US-X2R will “fade” between two mid and high amps, but if only one
input pair is available, the dual input can be defeated.
two

5
As with other U.S. Amps products, our crossovers feature an isolated input and amplifier section
to keep the system free of noise. It is important to ground the crossover input for proper
operation. Do not use a floating ground isolator with this or any other U.S. Amps product.
As with other U.S. Amps products, our crossovers feature an isolated input and amplifier section
to keep the system free of noise. It is important to ground the crossover input for proper
operation. Do not use a floating ground isolator with this or any other U.S. Amps product.
the RBG cable is connected. Use a common screwdriver tip or something like it to tighten the
RBG knob.
The US-X3 is a three-way unit that further divides the frequencies for three amplifiers. The features
and operation are similar to the others with the addition of the third mid range channel, and its
gain. There are separate high, mid and low mid frequency controls, and the mid range output
can be inverted 180 degrees with a switch to correct for real-life speaker placement.
the RBG cable is connected. Use a common screwdriver tip or something like it to tighten the
RBG knob.
The US-X3 is a three-way unit that further divides the frequencies for three amplifiers. The features
and operation are similar to the others with the addition of the third mid range channel, and its
gain. There are separate high, mid and low mid frequency controls, and the mid range output
can be inverted 180 degrees with a switch to correct for real-life speaker placement.
US-X3
US-X3
o
POWER
LOW PASS
FREQUENCY
HIGH MID
FREQUENCY
LOW MID
FREQUENCY
HIGH PASS
FREQUENCY
BASS BOOST
LOW GAIN
MID GAIN
HIGH GAIN
GROUND
POWER
REMOTE
AMP REMOTE
LOW
OUTPUT
MID
OUTPUT
HIGH
OUTPUT
LOW PASS
INPUT
MAIN
INPUT
o
MIFADE N LORIDA, U. S. A.MIFADE N LORIDA, U. S. A.
MODEL US-X3
HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A. HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A. HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.HAND-CRAFTED IN FLORIDA, U. S. A.
GROUND
To the Vehicle
Chassis
GROUND
POWER Fuse
at 3 Amps
POWER
REMOTE Positive 12
Volt Trigger From Source
REMOTE
AMP REMOTE Positive 12
Volt Trigger to Amplifiers
AMP REMOTE
POWER
LED
POWER
LED
HIGH
OUTPUT
0-9 Volts
HIGH
OUTPUT
LOW
OUTPUT
0-9 Volts
LOW
OUTPUT
MID
OUTPUT
0-9 Volts
MID
OUTPUT
BASS
BOOST
0 - 20Db
BASS
BOOST
LOW PASS FADER
Can be activated or
defeated with this switch
LOW PASS FADER
2-WAY / 3-WAY OPERATION
When used in the 2-Way mode
both the High and Mid Outputs
have Mid / High Output signals
adjustable from 50-500Hz via
the Low Mid Frequency Control
2-WAY / 3-WAY OPERATION
MIDRANGE PHASE INVERSION
Inverts the Midrange Output
phase 180 degrees to correct
for off-axis frequency response
MIDRANGE PHASE INVERSION
FREQUENCY
ADJUSTMENTS:
LOW PASS: HIGH MID: LOW MID: HIGH PASS:50Hz-500Hz 500Hz-5KHz 50Hz-500Hz 500Hz-5Khz
FREQUENCY
ADJUSTMENTS:
LOW PASS: HIGH MID: LOW MID: HIGH PASS:
Source Unit
LOW PASS
OUTPUT
Adjustable
0-9 Volts,
50-500Hz
LOW PASS
OUTPUT
MID RANGE
OUTPUT
Adjustable
0-9 Volts,
50-500Hz
Low Mid
500-5KHz
High Mid
MID RANGE
OUTPUT
HIGH PASS
OUTPUT
Adjustable
0-9 Volts,
500-5KHz
HIGH PASS
OUTPUT
LOW PASS
FADER
MODE
PHASE
ON
OFF
2-WAY
3-WAY
0
180
SUBS MID-BASS/
MIDS
MID-BASS/
MIDS
TWEETS

AMPLIFIER
POWER* and FUSE*
AMPLIFIER
POWER* and FUSE*
Watts per ChannelWatts per Channel
Model
Fuse
4 Ohms 2 Ohms 1 Ohm1 Ohm .5 Ohm .25 Ohm
TM
4200
400
5500
300
10 0
150
50
USA-50HC
USA-100HC
VLX-25
VLX-400
USA-50
USA-100
USA-150
USA-300
USA-400
USA-800
USASERIESUSASERIES
USASERIESUSA
SERIES
(New Model-
June 1999)
(5 Channel Sys-
tem Amplifier)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A 25A
50A
50A
75A
75A
25A
50A
75A
75A
135A
135A
225A
225A
400A
225A
225A
400A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
50W
25W
25W
25W
50W
12.5W
100W
50W
50W
75W
150W
300W
150W
400W
200W
200W
200W
400W
50W
X4
75WX4
250W X 1
95WX4
350W X 1
80W
X4
80W
50W
50W
100W
80W
100W
200W
188W
400W
400W 1200W
175W
100W
100W
158W
150W 225W
250W
450W
300W 405W
750W
400W
800W
800W
600W
1500W
6
Copyright 1999 U.S. Amps Inc. All rights Reserved. *Specifications subject to change without notice

AWG 14 30 AMPS AWG 6 80 AMPS AWG 0 190 AMPS
AWG 12 35 AMPS AWG 4 105 AMPS AWG 00 215 AMPS
AWG 10 45 AMPS AWG 2 135 AMPS AWG 000 245 AMPS
AWG 8 60 AMPS AWG 1 160 AMPS AWG 0000 275 AMPS
GETTING WIRED:
Once you have established the current needs of your system, it will be of the
to properly fuse the amplifier. Remember, power connections are always the last
thing. There cannot be enough emphasis placed on the importance of proper fusing. Fuses
prevent catastrophes.
Another major consideration is wire. If you wish to build a truly high-powered system,
you must take into account the of the system and select your wire
gauge accordingly. The following chart can be used as a guide:
UTMOST
IMPORTANCE
Always fuse each U.S. Amp product at the recommended
amperage.
total amperage requirements
or less than
GETTING WIRED:
These are real numbers, right out of the 1951 It takes real
wire to do real work. Trust us on this one.
Batteries, and the way they operate, is one of the least understood, yet critical element of any
healthy car audio system. Even small, highly efficient systems need a minimum amount of
amperage and voltage to operate properly. The average automotive battery is designed only to
the vehicle, not run the stereo, the lights, or anything else. That job goes to the vehicle
alternator, once the engine has been started.
The alternator also recharges the battery, replacing the energy used to start the engine within a
matter of minutes. The actual work done by the battery is minimal. If the current drawn by the
vehicle lights and other electrical accessories does not exceed the amperage output of the
alternator, the average battery will last for years.
The audio system, particularly the amplifiers, add to the current draw. Most stock alternators have
excess output, anywhere from 30 to 50 amps, maybe more. A safe way to determine whether your
electrical system is adequate to handle your U.S. Amp(s) is to use one-half of the amplifier fuse rating
as a constant to determine the average current draw of the system. Unless you are one of those
people who uses your amplifier to play a sine wave, (in which case you are on your own) your amp
will not draw peak current all the time when playing music. This isn’t rocket science , but it gets the
job done. Another way is to use the charts on pgs.6&10todetermine
based on the impedance that each channel is operating.
For each 100 watts, when playing music, count on 7.5 amps average of average current draw.
U.S. Federal Electrician’s Code Book.
start
actual amplifier output
You have a 40 amp “cushion” with your alternator, and you want to run a USA-5500x 5
channel amplifier. The sub is run at 4 ohms, 250 watts, and the 4 mid-high channels are at 4
ohms each, or 75 watts X 4 for 300 watts. The maximum system power would be 600 watts,
BATTERIES:
EXAMPLE:
BATTERIES:
7

8
(Since we are dealing with maximums, not to mention differing tastes in music and listening
volume, there is a healthy “fudge factor” built in here.)
BUT, if you want two 300xs’ pounding away at 4 ohms bridged,
that’s 1800 possible watts, or 18 X 7.5 amps, for 135 amps. You only have 40 to spare. High-
performance listening requires the right equipment. Either you invest in a more powerful
alternator to make up the extra current, or is going to have to come up with the
additional 95 amps.
This is not a good situation. Most batteries are of marginal construction and made of recycled
materials. Hence, they perform poorly, and break down quickly when used outside their intended
roll of starting the engine. The longer a battery is discharged, the longer it takes to recharge. Most
batteries take a lot longer than you think. Every time a common lead-acid automotive battery is
deeply discharged, it is damaged. The longer it is left discharged, the greater the damage is.
600 watts at 7.5 amps per every 100 is
43 amps. You are home free.
your battery
When compared with “Gell Cell”
batteries as shown on the
accompanying chart, SPL Series
batteries demonstrate superior
discharge capabilities. Because of
their outstanding properties and built-in
safety features, the SPL Series can be
used indoors, or inside the vehicle
passenger compartment.
U.S. Amps SPL Series batteries are used
by NASA, The U.S. Military, and
champion NASCAR* racing teams. SPL
Series batteries are not magic, they are
simply the best batteries available.
to wear the U.S. Amps
name.
They have to be * is a Registered Trademark of the National
Association for Stock Car Auto Racing Inc.
NASCAR
U.S. AMPS SPL SERIES BATTERIES:
By default, we have become battery experts, so
much so that we have our own brand, aptly named
the U.S. Amps SPL Series, sold through our
Motorsports and Consumer Electronics divisions.
The SPL Series consists of two 12 volt models, the SPL-
1000 and SPL-2000. They are the finest lead-acid
batteries available. SPL Series batteries are made of
99.97% virgin lead. They are 30% smaller and
lighter than conventional batteries, and will cycle up
to 10 times more often without losing their
specifications. The pure-lead construction allows for
more powerful discharge, faster recharge, and in
most cases, installation without a battery isolator
when used in parallel with the factory vehicle
battery.
U.S. AMPS SPL SERIES BATTERIES:
SPL-1000

9
SPL Series Batteries are available at your Authorized U.S. Amps Dealer, or they can be ordered
factory-direct using the form at the back of this manual, or from our internet web site,
www.usamps.com. Additional battery information is also posted, with an email address for
technical questions.
As mentioned before, most batteries are built for the relatively light chore of starting the engine.
Unless you have the room and ambition to install an upgraded high-powered alternator, your system
current requirements may exceed the charging capability of your car’s electrical system. When this
happens, you have to rely on the vehicle battery(s) to make up the difference.
Another factor to consider is voltage. Although the electrical system is considered to be “12 volt”, the
battery, when healthy, actually “rests”at 12.6 volts. The average alternator “puts out” when
the engine is on, because it is necessary to “feed” a battery higher voltage in order for it to charge.
All amplifiers operate more efficiently at 14.4 volts, and many, including U.S. Amps, put out more
power at the higher voltage.
U.S. Amps builds two products, one to recharge the batteries, and one to
increase the system voltage. Both units install and look like amplifiers.
The 12V30 is a 7” long that plugs into 110V AC wall current and delivers up to 25
amps of DC current at 14.4 volts. The 12V30 is , meaning that it will charge a
battery until it is full, then maintain a “float” of 14.4 volts.
Floating your batteries at 14.4 volts when they are not in use is the best way to extend battery life.
The concept of the 12V30 is to “plug in” your vehicle when it’s not being driven. The 12V30 will
“slow charge” the batteries and keep them in optimum condition.
It often takes a depleted lead-acid battery over to recharge, sometimes longer. When is
the last time you drove your car for 8 hours without the radio on? The 12V30 will do the job while
you sleep or work.
CARE AND FEEDING OF YOUR BATTERIES
THE US-12V30
THE OPTIMIZER
14.4 volts
Energy Management
power supply
current-limited
8 hours
ENERGY MANAGEMENT PRODUCT
THE OPTIMIZER is a DC to DC , it stabilizes and regulates the vehicle voltage to 14.4 Volts at
100 amps or 16 Volts at 90 amps. THE OPTIMIZER accepts a wide range of input, from 8 to 16 volts
DC. An external voltage monitoring terminal is included to allow THE OPTIMIZER to compensate it's
output voltage for wire loss. Multiple OPTIMIZER units can be used for any current demand.
If the maximum current output of THE OPTIMIZER is exceeded, it will gradually reduce output to slightly
less than the input battery voltage, preventing a total interruption of power. If left inactive, (turned off)
or if the input voltage exceeds 16 volts, THE OPTIMIZER will "bypass" allowing current to "flow through"
without appreciable loss. In addition, like all , THE OPTIMIZER is protected against thermal
damage by a solid-state 10.000 cycle thermostat. Additional information about the 12V30 and THE
OPTIMIZER can be found on the U.S. Amps Internet web page:
converter
in parallel
U.S. Amps
www.usamps.com.
CARE AND FEEDING OF YOUR BATTERIES
THE US-12V30
THE OPTIMIZER
ENERGY MANAGEMENT PRODUCT

Model Bridged Output THD @
4 Ohms
Damping
Factor**
Slew
Rate
S/N Ratio
TM
4200
400
5500
300
10 0
150
50
USA-50HC
USA-100HC
VLX-25
VLX-400
USA-50
USA-100
USA-150
USA-300
USA-400
USA-800
USASERIESUSASERIES
USASERIESUSA
SERIES
(New Model-
June 1999)
(5 Channel Sys-
tem Amplifier)
<.006%
<.006% 102dB
102dB
102dB
102dB
110dB
110dB
110dB
110dB
110dB
115dB
T/B/A* T/B/A* T/B/A*T/B/A*
115dB
115dB
115dB
115dB
115dB
115dB
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
<.006%
>200
>200
>400
>400
>600
>600
>600
>800
>800
>1000
>1000
>1000
>1000
>1000
>1000
30Vus
30Vus
30Vus
30Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
150Vus
160W @ 4 Ohms
350W @ 4 Ohms
500W @ 4 Ohms
900W @ 4 Ohms
160W @ 2 Ohms
315W @ 2 Ohms
450W @ 2 Ohms
810W @ 2 Ohms
1200W @ 2 Ohms
3000W @ 2 Ohms
375W @ 1 Ohm
800W @ 1 Ohm
400W @ .5 Ohms
2400W@1Ohm
1500W @ 4 Ohms
The 5500x Does
Not Bridge
Mid: >200
Sub: >400
160W X 2
@ 4 Ohms
AMPLIFIER
SPECIFCATIONS
AMPLIFIER
SPECIFCATIONS
10
*
*Specifications subject to change without notice. **Measured at 4 ohms at the circuit board.

11
USA-50, 50x, USA-100
and 100x
Controls and Features
USA-50, 50x, USA-100
and 100x
Controls and Features
Smart Amp
Technology
Exclusive
Built-in Active Crossover / Line Level Output:
The 2-way fixed-frequency 100Hz crossover can be configured to input the stereo high pass signal at 18db
and output the summed-mono low pass signal at 24db to another amplifier, or vice-versa. The crossover
can be defeated for full-range in / out.
Built-in Active Crossover / Line Level Output:
Smart Amp Technology:
Both models incorporate a non-computerized version of SAT (U.S. Amps’ exclusive Smart Amp Technology)
that precisely monitors each amplifier channel, the battery voltage, and amplifier temperature. In the
event of a fault condition, SAT will activate to protect the amplifier from damage.
Smart Amp Technology:
Well-Engineered From
Quality Materials:
The USA-50 and 100 feature Mil-
Spec FR-4 plated-through circuit
boards, stuffed with 1% tolerance
parts and U.S. Amps’ own hand-
wound power transformers.
The amplifiers are housed in a
bead-blasted or custom
polished anodized heat
sink. The U.S. Amps logo is
laser-etched or displayed
on a solid zinc emblem.
Well-Engineered From
Quality Materials:
Amplifier Input:
The USA-50 and 100 feature input
isolation and a built-in voltage
divider that will accept input
signals from nearly any source.
It is necessary to provide input
to both channels when operating
the amplifier. Sensitivity
150mv-3Volts. WARNING:
U.S. Amps require a grounded
input connection. DO NOT use
ground-loop isolation devices
on the input of your U.S. Amp!
Amplifier Input:
Gain Control:
The gain control is water and dust-proof for long life and
high fidelity. The input sensitivity can be infinitely adjusted
from 150mv to 10 Volts.
Gain Control:
Connections:
All power and speaker connections are via a heavy-duty barrier
terminal with gold-plated hardware. Use at least 8 gauge wire
for all power and ground connections.
Connections:
Clear Plexiglas Bottom:
U.S. Amps are hand-crafted to a high standard of quality in our Gainesville Florida
factory, and are thoroughly inspected for both cosmetic and operational perfection.
A clear bottom panel displays the attention to detail found in every U.S. Amp.
Clear Plexiglas Bottom:
Power LED Indicator:
The green light in the middle of the palm tree is
connected to the amplifier’s power supply, and
only lights when the amplifier is in working order.
Power LED Indicator:

12
X
GND
Right
Pos Right Neg
REM
Left
Pos Left
Neg 12V
Pos
X
X
GND
GND
Right
Pos
Right
Pos
Right
Neg
Right
Neg
REM
REM
Left
Pos
Left
Pos
Left
Neg
Left
Neg
12V
Pos
12V
Pos
Bridged
Operation:
Right Pos (+)
Left Neg (-)
LEFT
SPEAKER(S)
Left Positive
Left Negative
RIGHT
SPEAKER(S)
Right Negative
Right Positive
Bridged
Speaker(s)
Positive
Negative
Source Unit
Vehicle Battery
11 - 15 Volts DC
Vehicle Ground
F
U
S
E
ALWAYS FUSE AT BATTERY
USA-50: 25 Amps
50x: 25 Amps
USA-100: 50 Amps
100x: 50 Amps
Positive 12 Volt Remote
Turn-on
Positive 12 Volts to Vehicle Battery
Min. 8 Gauge
Negative 12 Volts to
Vehicle Ground. Min. 8 Gauge
USA-50:
4 Ohms: 25 Watts
2 Ohms: 50 Watts
1 Ohm: 80 Watts
Xterminator 50x:
4 Ohms: 50 Watts
2 Ohms: 80 Watts
USA-100:
4 Ohms: 50 Watts
2 Ohms: 100 Watts
1 Ohm: 158 Watts
Xterminator 100x:
4 Ohms: 100 Watts
2 Ohms: 175 Watts
Power Per Channel:
Switched 12 Volts out - 500ma
USA-50, 50x, USA-100, and 100x:
Stereo Operation
USA-50, 50x, USA-100, and 100x:
Stereo Operation
Bridged MonoBridged Mono
Total Bridged Output:
USA-50: 160 Watts @ 2 Ohms
50x: 160 Watts @ 4 Ohms
USA-100: 315 Watts @ 2 Ohms
100: 350 Watts @ 4 Ohms

13
USA-50HC, USA-150,150x,
USA-300 and 300x:
Controls and Features
USA-50HC, USA-150,150x,
USA-300 and 300x:
Controls and Features
Smart Amp Technology:
Both models incorporate a SAT
(U.S. Amps’ exclusive Smart Amp
Technology) that precisely monitors
and tracks vital amplifier information,
including the type and frequency of
fault conditions , battery voltage,
and amplifier temperature. A
built-in computer stores data that
can be read by the Dealer with a
U.S. Amps data port interface to
aid in system problem-solving.
In addition, SAT keeps permanent
record of the amplifiers’ serial
number and time of operation.
Smart Amp Technology:
Amplifier Input:
The USA-300 and 300x feature input isolation and a built-in
voltage divider that will accept input signals from nearly
any source. It is necessary to provide input to both channels
when operating the amplifier. Sensitivity150mv-3Volts.
Amplifier Input: Active 24db Low Pass Crossover:
The low-pass crossover can be infinitely
adjusted to “roll off” at 24db per octave at
frequencies between 50Hz and 500Hz. The
crossover can be defeated for full-range
operation.
Active 24db Low Pass Crossover
Clear Plexiglas Bottom:
U.S. Amps are hand-crafted to a high standard
of quality in our Gainesville Florida factory, and
are thoroughly inspected for both cosmetic and
operational perfection. A clear bottom panel
displays the attention to detail found in every
U.S. Amp.
Clear Plexiglas Bottom:
WARNING:
U.S. Amps require a grounded
input connection. DO NOT use
ground-loop isolation devices
on the input of your U.S. Amp!
WARNING:
Subsonic Filter:
To optimize amplifier power in the
audible frequencies, a defeatable
36 Hz subsonic filter provides a 12db
per octave roll-off.
Subsonic Filter:
Gain Control:
The gain control is water and dust
proof for long life and high fidelity.
The input sensitivity can be infinitely
adjusted from 150mv to 3Volts.
Gain Control:
Remote
Bass Gain:
The amplifier
volume can
be adjusted
remotely from the passenger compartment,
independent of the system volume. The RBG
works within the input volume range set by the
GAIN control, and is about 75% effective. The
RGB comes with a knob and 15’ of cable.
Remote
Bass Gain:
Data
Out
Smart Amp
SAT
Technology
Exclusive

14
GND
GND
GND
GND
Right
Pos
Right
Pos
Right
Neg
Right
Neg
Left
Pos
Left
Pos
Left
Neg
Left
Neg
12V
Pos
12V
Pos
12V
12V
Pos
Pos
GND
GND
Right
Pos Right Neg
Left
Pos Left
Neg 12V
Pos
12V
Pos
LEFT
SPEAKER(S)
Left Positive
Left Negative
RIGHT
SPEAKER(S)
Right Negative
Right Positive
Bridged
Speaker(s)
Positive
Negative
Source Unit
Vehicle Battery
11 - 15 Volts DC
Vehicle
Ground
Positive
12 Volt
Remote
Turn-on
F
U
S
E
ALWAYS FUSE AT BATTERY
USA-50HC, USA-150, 150x:
75 Amps
USA-300, 300x:
135 Amps
Positive 12 Volts
to Vehicle Battery
Min. 8 Gauge
Negative 12 Volts to
Vehicle Ground. Min. 8 Gauge
USA-50C:
4 Ohms: 25 Watts
2 Ohms: 50 Watts
1 Ohm: 100 Watts
½ Ohm: 188 Watts
USA-150:
4 Ohms: 75 Watts
2 Ohms: 150 Watts
1 Ohm: 225 Watts
150x:
4 Ohms: 150 Watts
2 Ohms: 250 Watts
USA-300:
4 Ohms: 150 Watts
2 Ohms: 300 Watts
1 Ohm: 405 Watts
300x:
4 Ohms: 300 Watts
2 Ohms: 450 Watts
Power Per Channel:
USA-50HC, USA-150,150x, USA-300 and 300x:
Stereo Operation
USA-50HC, USA-150,150x, USA-300 and 300x:
Stereo Operation
Bridged MonoBridged Mono
Total Bridged Output:
USA-50HC: 375 Watts@1Ohm
USA-150: 450 Watts @ 4 Ohms
150x: 500 Watts @ 2 Ohms
USA-300: 810 Watts @ 2 Ohms
300x: 900 Watts @ 4 Ohms
REMX
Switched
12 Volts
Out
Bridged
Operation:
Right Pos (+)
Left Neg (-)

15
RBG Bass
Rear Front
Gain
Gain Gain
Bass Rear Front
Freq Freq Freq
On
MAX MAX
i
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i
i
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i
i
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
50 50 50
10 0 10 0 10 0
500 500 500
INPUT REAR FRONT
2-in-4
CHANNEL SYSTEM AMPLIFIER
5
5
USA-5500
Hand-Crafted
In Florida, U. S. A.
UPPER
LOWER
REM GND
GND
X
Sub
Pos
Sub
Neg
12V
12V
Pos
Pos
Data
Out
Five Channel System Amplifier by U.S. AMPS
RR
Pos
RR
Neg
RL
Neg
FL
Neg
RL
Pos
FR
Pos
FL
Pos
FR
Neg
USA-5500x
Controls and Features
USA-5500x
Controls and Features
Remote Bass GainRemote Bass Gain
Crossover Frequency AdjustmentsCrossover Frequency Adjustments
SAT
Five Channel System Amplifier:
The USA-5500x features a two-way electronic crossover with independent front and rear mid-high
frequency adjustment, two ohm per channel stability, and a Remote Bass Gain control that can
be mounted in the vehiclle passenger compartment.
Five Channel System Amplifier:
Front and Rear Inputs:
The 5500x will accept
either single or
dual inputs to
Allow front-to
-rear fading if
the source unit
Is so equipped.
Input for the sub-
woofer channel
comes from the
FRONT pair.
, located
between the front and
rear GAIN controls,
switches between
2 and 4
channel
Input.,
The 2-IN-4
INPUT Switch
Front and Rear Inputs:
The 2-IN-4
INPUT Switch
The USA-5500x comes with an optional “Remote Bass Gain”
or “RBG” that can be mounted in the passenger compartment to
independently attenuate the low pass output.
The “BASS GAIN” located on the terminal endplate of
the unit is used both to set the level of the low pass
output and control the range of the RBG. It does
not matter which way the RBG cable is connected. Use a common
screwdriver tip or something like it to tighten the RBG knob.
The two-way crossover of the 5500x “splits” the full-range audio signal into high and low
frequencies. The highs are reproduced by four 75 watt channels that are 2 ohm stable. The low
frequencies are summed monaural and played by a single 250 watt channel that will produce
350 watts into 2 ohms. Independent frequency controls adjust the “roll-off” of the high and low
frequencies from 50Hz to 500Hz at 12 Db per octave.
The low frequency control limits the
high frequency response of the low
pass output, and the high frequency
control limits the low frequency
response of the high pass output.

16
Xterminator 5500x Five Channel Operation:Xterminator 5500x Five Channel Operation:
X
GND
GND
REM 12V
12V
Pos
Pos
SUB
SUB
NegNeg
Pos
FL
FL
FL
RL
FR
RR
Pos
Pos
Pos
Pos
Pos
Pos
Pos
Pos
FL
FL
FL
RL
FR
RR
Neg
Neg
Neg
Neg
Neg
Neg
Neg
Neg
SUBWOOFER
SPEAKER(S)
Negative
Positive
LEFT FRONT
SPEAKER (S)
RIGHT FRONT
SPEAKER(S)
LEFT REAR
SPEAKER(S)
RIGHT REAR
SPEAKER(S)
Negative Negative
Negative Negative
Positive Positive
Positive Positive
MID-HIGH CHANNELS:
4 Ohms: 75 Watts
SUBWOOFER
CHANNEL OUTPUT:
4 Ohms: 250 Watts
2 Ohms: 350 Watts
Vehicle Ground
Vehicle Ground
Vehicle Battery
11 - 15 Volts DC
Source Unit
Positive 12 Volt Remote
Turn-on F
U
S
E
ALWAYS FUSE AT BATTERY
75 AMPS75 AMPS
Terminal Top ViewTerminal Top View
2 Ohms: 90 Watts
NOT
USED

GROUND REM LEFT RIGHT
+ + +
_ _ _ _ _
POWER
+ + +
Rear View-Terminal Endplate
Bridged Wiring Diagram
Rear View-Terminal Endplate
Bridged Wiring Diagram
17
Vehicle Ground
Vehicle Battery
11 - 15 Volts DC
F
U
S
E
ALWAYS FUSE
AT BATTERY
225 AMPS225 AMPS
Negative
Positive
Negative
Positive
Features and Wiring
USA-100HC, USA-400,
400x, VLX-25
Features and Wiring
USA-100HC, USA-400,
400x, VLX-25
Total Bridged
Output:
USA-100HC
800 Watts @ 1 Ohm
USA-400
1200 Watts @ 2 Ohms
400x
1500 Watts @ 4 Ohms
VLX-25
400 Watts @ .5 Ohms
Total Bridged
Output
Power
MAX
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
i .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
GAIN
Hand-Crafted
In Florida, U. S. A.
OO S DNE HM TABLE ESIGN
hv s a igh oltage tereo mplifier
1200 Watts RMS
USA-400
All four of these amplifiers are
based on the same circuit
board. They use different
transformers and output
components, but they share
many similarities. The input
section is isolated and must
receive an input ground to
function properly. A minimum
of 8 gauge wire must be used
for all power and ground
connections.
Source Unit
Positive 12 Volt Remote
Turn-on

18
Factory Service:
If you have a problem with your U.S. Amp that requires service you can either take it to the
Dealer, who will send it back to the factory, or you can return it to the factory yourself. If you
choose to send it in yourself you must first get a “Return Authorization” number from U.S. Amps
that must be displayed on the outside of the shipping carton.
U.S. Amps will not accept packages for service that do not display a valid Return Authorization
number. We don’t like the red tape any more than you do, but it’s the only way to keep things
straight. There will be a charge for service unless the unit is under warranty accompanied
by a copy of the sales receipt. Remember to double box and insure your amp.
and
Factory Service:
U.S. Amps Inc. warrants all manufactured electronic products to be free from defects in material
and workmanship for a period not to exceed TWO YEARS from the date of purchase when installed
by an Authorized U.S. Amps Dealer.
All other units not installed by an Authorized U.S. Amps Dealer maintain a warranty not to exceed
90 days from the original date of purchase by the original purchaser.
Return Authorization Numbers are available by calling (352)-338-1926 between the hours of
9:00am and 5:00pm EST.
This warranty extends only to the original purchaser and is not transferable. Defective equipment
must be returned within the warranty period, freight prepaid, to the U.S. Amps Factory or an
Authorized U.S. Amps Warranty Station. U.S. Amps Inc. will pay return freight on all warranty repairs.
This warranty covers only defects in materials and workmanship of manufactured electronic
products, i.e. amplifiers and signal processors, and does not extend to batteries or other
accessories bearing the U.S. Amps name. Incidents of misuse, abuse, neglect, or unauthorized
modification will not be covered within the terms of this warranty.
U.S. Amps Inc. reserves the right to refuse warranty service under such conditions.
Any dispute arising from this warranty, or breach thereof, must be entered in the circuit court of
Alachua County, Florida. This warranty gives you specific legal rights that may vary from state
to state.
Limited Warranty:
IMPORTANT WARRANTY NOTICE: U.S. Amps Inc. will only warrant and service product displaying
valid U.S. Amps serial numbers. WARRANTY SERVICE WILL ONLY BE PERFORMED WHEN THE UNIT IS
ACCOMPANIED BY A COPY OF THE ORIGINAL SALES RECEIPT. All product returned to U.S. Amps Inc.
for service MUST be accompanied by a Return Authorization Number, issued by U.S. Amps Inc. in
advance of shipment. The Return Authorization Number must be clearly and conspicuously
displayed on the shipping carton or U.S. Amps Inc. will refuse delivery.
U.S. AMPS INC. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGES, WHETHER INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL, RELATED TO THE USE OF THIS OR ANY OTHER PRODUCT BEARING OR SOLD
UNDER THE U.S. AMPS BRAND NAME. USE THIS PRODUCT AT YOUR OWN RISK. IMPROPER USE OF
THIS PRODUCT CAN RESULT IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, BODILY HARM, AND OR OTHER DAMAGE. U.S.
AMPS INC. ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR HEALTH OR SAFETY.
Limited Warranty:
U.S. AMPS INC. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGES, WHETHER INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL, RELATED TO THE USE OF THIS OR ANY OTHER PRODUCT BEARING OR SOLD
UNDER THE U.S. AMPS BRAND NAME. USE THIS PRODUCT AT YOUR OWN RISK. IMPROPER USE OF
THIS PRODUCT CAN RESULT IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, BODILY HARM, AND OR OTHER DAMAGE. U.S.
AMPS INC. ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR HEALTH OR SAFETY.

19
OTHER COOL STUFFOTHER COOL STUFF
Rush me the following cool U.S.
Amps Items. Enclosed is my check
or money order for the amount of
$________ dollars.
NAME__________________________
ADDRESS_______________________
CITY_________________ST_________
ZIP___________ PH_______________
Email Address___________________
Make sure the amount on your check
equals the GRAND TOTAL amount. Credit
Cards accepted via the U.S. Amps Internet
site: www.usamps.com
NEVER NEVER LAND:
U.S. Amps are input-isolated at the factory and require an input ground for proper operation.
Protect your investment. Use common
sense. Make sure the spot you choose is well-ventilated and free from dirt and moisture.
Remember, when
you bridge your amplifier, each channel "sees" one half of the load, hence at 4 ohms bridged
each channel is operating at 2 ohms, which is the minimum impedance for XTERMINATOR
models. U.S. Amps makes the USA Series of 1 ohm stable amplifiers if you wish to bridge into 2
ohms, plus an array of "high current" products that are purpose-designed to operate at even
lower impedances. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS BASIC RULE WILL RESULT IN A SENSELESS WASTE OF
POWER AND PERFORMANCE, and could damage your amplifier.
NEVER
NEVER
NEVER
USE A U.S. AMP WITH A GROUND LOOP ISOLATOR OR AN ISOLATED INPUT SIGNAL.
INSTALL OR MOUNT YOUR AMPLIFIER DIRECTLY TO A SPEAKER ENCLOSURE OR
ANYWHERE ELSE WHERE SEVERE VIBRATION IS PRESENT.
USE YOUR U.S. AMP BELOW THE RATED MINIMUM IMPEDANCE.
NEVER NEVER LAND:
NEVER
NEVER
NEVER
USE A U.S. AMP WITH A GROUND LOOP ISOLATOR OR AN ISOLATED INPUT SIGNAL.
INSTALL OR MOUNT YOUR AMPLIFIER DIRECTLY TO A SPEAKER ENCLOSURE OR
ANYWHERE ELSE WHERE SEVERE VIBRATION IS PRESENT.
USE YOUR U.S. AMP BELOW THE RATED MINIMUM IMPEDANCE.
ORDER FORMORDER FORM

OTHER COOL STUFFOTHER COOL STUFFOTHER COOL STUFFOTHER COOL STUFF Team U.S. Amps
Six Colors-Front Logo
L, XL 100% Cotton
Amp Guy
5 Colors -Front Logo
L, XL 100% Cotton
Hand-Crafted In Florida, U. S. A.
Painted Metal
U.S. Amps Emblem
w/ Adhesive Back
6.75”L X 2.5”H
SPL SERIES 12 VOLT BATTERIES
State -of-the-Art
Battery Technology
Delivers the Power
You Need!
Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Copyright 1999 U.S. Amps Incorporated. All rights reserved.
email: [e-mail]
U.S. Amps Inc.
7325-100 NW 13th Blvd
Gainesville, Florida 32653
(352)-338-1926 fax[phone]
email: [e-mail]
U.S. Amps Inc.
7325-100 NW 13th Blvd
Gainesville, Florida 32653
(352)-338-1926 fax[phone]
We also have
“Team U.S. Amps” Jackets
In Black With a 5-Color
embroidered logo
Sizes L and XL
We also have
“Team U.S. Amps” Jackets
In Black With a 5-Color
embroidered logo
Sizes L and XL
Embroidered
Hats and
Golf Shirts
Too!
Embroidered
Hats and
Golf Shirts
Too!