Wavtech bassRESTOR User manual

www.wavtech-usa.com
Owner’s Manual
Bass Restoration Processor / LOC / Line Driver
Complete Tuning Control Ÿ Ÿ Multi-Function Remote
bassRESTOR
Auto Turn-On

• DO NOT DRIVE WHILE DISTRACTED. Any function that requires your prolonged attention should not be performed
while driving. Always stop the vehicle in a safe location before performing any such function. Failure to do so may
result in an accident.
• KEEP THE VOLUME AT MODERATE LEVELS WHILE DRIVING. Excess volume levels can obscure sounds such as
emergency vehicle sirens or road warning signals and may result in an accident. Continuous exposure to high sound
pressure levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Use common sense and practice safe sound.
• FOR USE WITH 12V NEGATIVE GROUND VEHICLE APPLICATIONS ONLY. Using this product other than in its
designed application may result in fire, injury or product damage.
•MAKE THE CORRECT WIRING CONNECTIONS AND USE PROPER FUSE PROTECTION. Failure to connect wiring
correctly or use appropriate fuse protection may result in fire, injury or product damage . Ensure proper fusing of all
system power wiring and install a 1-ampere in-line fuse (not included) with the +12V lead to the unit’s power supply
connector.
• DISCONNECT THE NEGATIVE BATTERY TERMINAL BEFORE INSTALLATION. Failure to do so may result in fire,
injury or damage to the unit.
• D O NOT ALLOW CABLES TO BECOME ENTANGLED IN SURROUNDING OBJECTS. Arrange wiring and cables to
prevent obstructions when driving. Cables or wiring that obstruct or hang up on places such as steering wheel, brake
pedals, etc. can be extremely hazardous.
• DO NOT DAMAGE VEHICLE SYSTEMS OR WIRING WHEN DRILLING HOLES. When drilling holes in the chassis for
installation, take precautions so as not to contact, puncture or obstruct brake lines, fuel lines, fuel tanks, electrical
wiring, etc. Failure to take such precautions may result in fire or an accident.
• DO NOT UTILIZE OR CONNECT TO ANY PART OF VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS. Bolts, nuts or wires used in the
brake, airbag, steering or any other safety-related systems or fuel tanks should NEVER be used for mounting, power or
ground connections. Using such parts may disable control of the vehicle or result in fire.
WARNING
WARNING This symbol means important instructions.
Failure to heed them can result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION This symbol means important instructions.
Failure to heed them can result in injury or property damages.
• STOP USE IMMEDIATELY IF A PROBLEM OCCURS. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or damage to the
product. Return it to your authorized Wāvtech dealer.
• HAVE AN EXPERT DO THE WIRING AND INSTALLATION. This unit requires special technical skill and experience for
wiring and installation. To insure safety and proper function, always contact the authorized dealer where you
purchased the product to have it done professionally.
• INSTALL THE UNIT SECURELY WITH SPECIFIED PARTS. Be sure to use only the included parts and specified
installation accessories (not included). Use of other than designated parts may damage this unit. Install the unit
securely so that it will not come loose during a collision or sudden jolt.
• ROUTE WIRING AWAY FROM SHARP EDGES AND MOVING PARTS. Arrange cables and wiring away from sharp or
pointed edges and avoid moving parts such as seat hinges or rails to prevent pinching or wear. Use loom protection
where appropriate and always use a grommet for any wiring routed through metal.
• NEVER RUN SYSTEM WIRING OUTSIDE OR UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. All wiring must be routed, secured and
protected inside the vehicle. Failure to do so may result in fire, injury or property damage.
• INSTALL THE UNIT IN A DRY AND VENTILATED LOCATION. Avoid mounting locations where the unit will likely be
exposed to high moisture or heat without adequate ventilation. Moisture penetration or heat buildup may result in
product failure.
• REDUCE GAIN AND SOURCE VOLUME TO MINIMUM LEVELS FOR INITIAL SYSTEM TUNING AND BEFORE
CONNECTION TO AN AMPLIFIER. Ensure amplifier power is off before connecting RCA cables and follow proper
system gain setting procedure. Failure to do so may result in damage to the amplifier and/or connected components.
CAUTION
Package Contents:
Main Unit
Accessories Required for
Installation (not included):
ŸRCA Interconnects
Ÿ18AWG Wire
ŸIn-line Fuse Holder w/1A fuse
ŸBattery Ring Terminal
ŸWire Crimp Connectors
ŸGrommets and Loom
ŸCable Ties
ŸMounting Screws
1
Remote Level Control
Remote Cable
(16.4ft / 5m)
Terminals
Mounting Tabs
(detachable)
PWR/SPK GND
bassRESTOR
EFFECT
15 50
30
12
BASS PROCESSOR
8030
50
MED
NAR WIDE

Introduction
Welcome to Wāvtech, exceptional mobile audio integration products for audiophiles. Our products are
engineered to provide a truly remarkable listening experience. Built for the professional installer, our
OEM integration and signal processor models are simply the best solution available for unlimited sound
system upgrades while retaining the factory receiver or with an aftermarket source.
ΠPower Indicator: This red LED indicates when the bassRESTOR is powered on. Once illuminated, there
will be a short delay before audio signal output is enabled. During initial power connections, it may
illuminate for a brief period.
Ground Jumper: For selecting between chassis, isolation or 200Ω for the internal audio signal ground.
Chassis ground is the default setting and ideal for most applications due to the differential input
stage. In the rare case there is system noise present after all other installation countermeasures,
changing this jumper to ISO or 200Ω may reduce or eliminate the noise.
ŽPower Supply Terminal: For +12V battery, chassis ground, remote input and remote output wire
connections. A minimum of 18AWG wire is recommended for power and ground connections. Always
protect the +12V power wire with a 1-amp fuse.
Speaker Level Input Terminal: For left and right channel speaker level (a.k.a. high level) connections to
the source. In the default setting, input signals ranging from 4Vrms to 40Vrms will produce up to
10Vrms RCA output from maximum to minimum gain. If after adjusting all other settings the
bassRESTOR’s output is not enough to maximize system levels at the desired source volume range,
internal jumpers are available to increase input sensitivity by two times (+6dB) for 2Vrms to 20Vrms.
RCA Input Jacks: For left and right channel low level (a.k.a. line level) signal connections to the source.
In the default setting, input signals ranging from 1Vrms to 10Vrms will produce up to 10Vrms RCA
output from maximum to minimum gain. If more output is desired after making all other system
adjustments, the input sensitivity range may be increased by two times (+6dB) via internal jumpers for
0.5Vrms to 5Vrms. Additionally, these differential inputs may be set to unbalanced via internal
jumpers if required for a particular source or to midigate potential for coupled noise if left floating.
‘Remote Level Control Jack: This RJ45 jack is for connecting the remote level control to the main unit
with the supplied cable. A standard ethernet cable may also be used.
’RCA Output Jacks: For left and right channel line level signal connections to your amplifier(s). Each
output is capable of driving multiple amplifier input channels in parallel. Use quality interconnects to
ensure stable connection and minimize the possibility for induced noise.
“Mounting Tabs: These mounting tabs are pre-attached and should be used to properly secure the
bassRESTOR during installation with screws or cable ties. They are removable if the unit can be safely
secured by another method.
”Remote Housing: This 2-piece housing design provides both convenient mounting
and simple dissasembly for customization. The integrated screw mount tabs are
pre-scored to aid removal if securing by another method, and the lower housing
can be detatched by removing the two top screws. For custom panel mounting,
the housing can be completely disassembled by also removing the main knob,
outer ring, shaft nut, circuit board screw and relocating the LED. If the housing is
removed, it is recommended to protect the exposed PCB with heat shrink.
Connections & Functions
2
ŸVariable Gain with Clip LED
ŸAuto Turn-On via DC-Offset or Audio Signal Detect
ŸGenerated +12V Remote Output
ŸOEM Load Detect Compatible
ŸSelectable Ground Isolation
ŸLocking Detachable Power/Speaker Terminals
ŸPanel Mount RCA Jacks
ŸCompact Aluminum Chassis
ŸDetachable Mounting Tabs
Features
ŸBass Restoration Processor
 Complete Tuning Control (Effect, Width, Freq)
Variable Subsonic Filter
ŸMulti-Function Remote
Total Output Level
Bass Effect Level with Push On/Off
ŸLine Output Converter or Line Driver
ŸDifferential Balanced Inputs
Ÿ Low Impedance Outputs

‘
’
“
Œ

Ž 
”

SPK IN
REM OUT
RCA OUT
+12V
GND
RLC
bassRESTOR
EFFECT
BASS PROCESSOR
8030
50
MED
NAR WIDE
MID
MIN MAX 15 50
30
REM OUT
SPK IN
RCA OUT
+12V
GND
RLC
bassRESTOR
EFFECT
BASS PROCESSOR
8030
50
MED
NAR WIDE
MID
MIN MAX 15 50
30
Installation & System Wiring
It is important to read this manual thoroughly before starting your installation and always plan
accordingly. Before installing any Wāvtech product, disconnect the negative (ground) wire from the
vehicle’s battery to avoid damage to the vehicle or yourself. Following all guidelines will help provide
years of enjoyment with your Wāvtech bassRESTOR audio interface.
Ground Connection (GND): The GND terminal must be connected to a metal part of the vehicle that is
welded to the vehicle body with ground plane back to the main battery ground attachment point (a.k.a.
chassis ground). This wire should be a minimum of 18AWG and as short as possible to minimize potential
for noise to enter the system. The chassis ground connection point should have all of the paint removed
and be scuffed to the bare metal. The ground wire should be terminated by a ground specific interlocking
terminal such as the included EARL terminal or ring terminal securely bolted to the vehicle with star or
lock washer and nut to prevent from coming loose. Avoid using factory ground points to reduce the
chance of induced noise from other components.
Power Connection (+12V): The constant power connection should be made at the vehicle battery when
possible. For direct battery connection, a 1-amp fuse must be installed in-line with the power wire within
18”of the battery and securely connected to the positive battery terminal bolt with a ring terminal. If
connecting to another available constant +12V power source, a 1-amp in-line fuse must be added at the
connection point. The power wire should be a minimum of 18AWG. Do not install the fuse until all other
system connections have been made.
Speaker Level Input (SPK): Connect the speaker wires from the source unit to corresponding terminals on
the interface. Use the SPK input if your source unit is not equipped with RCA outputs. Always ensure the
correct polarity of each channel when making these connections, as failure to do so can severely effect
sound performance.
Remote Input (REM IN): If the source unit has a remote output wire (provides +12V only when turned on),
connect it to the REM IN terminal. If a remote lead is unavailable, all Wāvtech interfaces also provide
automatic turn-on via DC-offset and audio signal detection. While auto turn-on will work in most
applications, there may be some cases were a +12V trigger is needed for satisfactory results. These signal
detect functions can also be individually defeated via internal jumpers (labeled DC and AUD) if necessary.
Remote Output (REM OUT): Use the remote output to provide a +12V trigger to turn on amplifiers or
other components. This +12V output is generated internally by the interface when turned on either by
REM IN or signal sensing, and will provide over 500mA of constant current for external devices.
Remote Level Control (RLC): Connect the remote to the bassRESTOR’s RLC port with the supplied
16.4ft/5m cable. Plan cable routing before mounting the remote to ensure proper length. If additional
length is required, a standard 8-conductor CAT5 or CAT6 ethernet cable or extension may be used. The
cable may also be shortened and re-terminated with a RJ45 connector and ethernet crimping tool.
Example-1: Speaker Level Input from OEM Radio
System Examples
Note: In vehicles where the factory radio has a fixed level or digital output to a factory amplifier, signal for the
bassRESTOR’s speaker level input should be connected at the amplifier’s output.
Example-2: Speaker Level Input from OEM Amplifier
Note: When using a receiver’s internal power IC to drive speakers directly, note that its speaker outputs will likely clip
below the maximum master volume level. Adjust gain settings accordingly for optimum unclipped volume range.
3

ŒClipping Indicator: This yellow LED
indicates when the output signal is at
maximum level before distortion
(clipping) occurs. It will be dimly lit just
before the onset of clipping, and full
bright at clipping. Since the bassRESTOR
can produce up to 10Vrms at maximum
output, it is likely that gain will need to be
reduced below the illumination point to match your amplifier(s) maximum input capability, optimize
source volume range or compensate for bass restoration applied after initial gain setting.
Gain Adjustment: This adjustment is for matching the output signal level of the bassRESTOR with the
maximum unclipped signal provided by your source and the maximum input capability of your
amplifier(s). Follow proper gain setting procedures to ensure optimum source volume range without
clipping at any point in the signal chain. If using music to set system gains, it is recommended to utilize
a variety of bass content and recording levels to ensure proper headroom and minimize the ability to
overdrive the system. Readjustment may be necessary after any changes to other settings.
ŽBass Processor: This section provides full adjustment over all parameters of the bass restoration
process as well as a subsonic filter. Unlike traditional equilization, this provides tuning flexibility for
how bass restoration is dynamically applied to music content as well as for differences between
vehicles and subwoofer systems.
Effect: Provides adjustment for the maximum amount of boost that can be applied by the bass
restoration process, which depends upon the music content being played as well as the width and
frequency settings. Effect is essentially a limiter to prevent overdriving subwoofers when set
properly. If gain has already been adjusted, adding more effect may cause the output to clip and
require reduction of gain to achieve final desired unclipped output level. After effect level is set, it
is recommended to only use the remote’s outer ring for on-the-fly bass level adjustments.
Width: This adjustment sets the bandwidth of frequencies enhanced by the bass restoration
process. A wide setting will include more adjacent frequencies for a broad bass enhancement,
while a narrow setting will only add frequencies closer to the chosen center frequency. Note that
changing the width may also require readjustment of the effect and/or gain settings to prevent
clipping or overdriving the system.
‘Frequency: This adjustment is for setting the center of the frequency range enhanced by the bass
restoration process, between 30Hz and 80Hz.
’Subsonic: Provides adjustment of the subsonic filter cut-off point (F) below which all frequencies
are filtered out. Very low frequencies can waste amplifier power but this setting is especially
important for preventing damage to subwoofers from large amounts of bass restoration and
potential for over-excursion in ported enclosures below the tuning frequency.
Top Panel Adjustments
Example-3: RCA Input from Aftermarket Radio
+12V
GND
RLC REM IN
RCA IN
RCA
OUT
REM OUT
4
Note: If the source’s output signal is full-range and the bassRESTOR is being used for subwoofer(s) only, a low-pass filter
will need to be engaged at the amplifier to filter out unwanted higher frequencies. Additionally, unless the amplifier
already has an adequate subsonic filter, set the bassRESTOR’s subsonic filter appropriately to prevent over-excursion.
bassRESTOR
EFFECT
BASS PROCESSOR
8030
50
MED
NAR WIDE
MID
MIN MAX 15 50
30
EFFECT
BASS PROCESSOR
8030
50MED
NAR WIDE
MID
MIN MAX 15 50
30
Note:
The bassRESTOR is capable of full-range signal output. When used for a subwoofer system, a low-pass
filter (usually built into amplifiers) will need to be applied and adjusted appropriately to remove
unwanted higher frequencies. If the subsonic and a low-pass filter’s cut-off points are set too closely
together, only a narrow frequency range will pass through and will result in reduced output.

Width
Frequency
Effect
Specifications
18Hz to >75kHz
15Hz to >100kHz
180Ω
20kΩ
2-20Vrms / 4-40Vrms
0.5-5Vrms / 1-10Vrms
Spk Input peak, <5sec cont. 40Vrms
Output Impedance <50Ω
Max Output Voltage >10Vrms
at 1V output >96dBA
at 4V output >107dBA
at 10V output >115dBA
at 1V output >95dBA
at 4V output >106dBA
at 10V output >114dBA
Remote via REM IN >10.5V
DC-offset via Spk Input >1.3V
via Spk Input <100mV
via RCA Input <10mV
Turn-off Delay up to 60sec
>500mA
Within 3% of B+
<300mA
<1.2mA
10.5V-18V
<8.5V
1.1”x3.5”x5.2”
29x90x133mm
Product Dimensions
Main Chassis
Power Off (B+)
Max Draw (w/o REM OUT)
Sleep Current
Power On (B+)
Max Flat (+0/-1dB)
Extended (+0/-3dB)
Spk Input
RCA Input
Spk Input (max-min gain)
RCA Input (max-min gain)
Current Draw
Operating Voltage
Audio Signal
Turn-On Trigger
RCA Input
Spk Input
S/N
Remote Output
at 1% THD+N
Current Capacity
Voltage
Input Impedance
Input Sensitivity
Max Input Voltage
Frequency Response
Narrow - Wide
30Hz - 80Hz
Bass Restoration
up to +18dB
Subsonic Filter
Spk Input at 10V output
RCA Input at 10V output
THD+N <0.05%
<0.1%
5
Notes:
ŸRCA and speaker level input sensitivity ranges are selectable via combined internal jumpers
(10V/40V or 5V/20V). The factory default RCA/Spk input range setting is 10V/40V.
ŸDC-offset and/or audio signal detect functions are defeatable via internal jumpers (DC, AUD).
ŸAll specifications are subject to change without notice.
Slope
Total Ouput Level (Main Knob) 0dB to -30dB
Remote Level Control
(HxWxL not incl. terminals, jacks)
Remote Housing
(HxWxD not incl. knob, tabs)
1.1”x1.5”x1.8”
28x38x45mm
ŒBass Restoration On/Off: By short pressing the main knob, the bass
restoration circuit can be activated or completely bypassed. This function
provides quick ability to defeat the effect for music content that already has
enough bass without changing the bass effect level setting from the outer
ring. The LED will be illuminated only when bass restoration is on.
Total Ouput Level: Rotating the remote’s main knob provides attenuation
adjustment over the total RCA output level, from full output 0dB down to
-30dB. It can be used as a subwoofer level or master volume control and
functions whether or not bass restoration is active.
ŽBass Effect Level: Rotating the outer ring allows on-the-fly adjustment over the amount of bass
restoration applied, from the maximum effect limit set at the main unit (0dB) down to no effect (- ).
Remote Adjustments
Œ

Ž
up to -24dB/oct. @ 15Hz
15Hz - 50Hz
Frequency (F3)
Bass Effect Level (Outer Ring) 0dB to -
∞
∞

6
Warranty & Service Care
Wāvtech warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one
(1) year when purchased from an authorized Wāvtech retailer within the United States. This warranty will
be extended to a period of two (2) years when the installation is performed by an authorized Wāvtech
retailer. A valid sales receipt is required to verify eligibility of purchase and installation.
This warranty is valid only to the original purchaser and is not transferrable to subsequent parties. This
warranty is void if the product serial number has been altered or removed. Any applicable implied
warranties are limited in duration to a period of express warranty as provided herein beginning with the
date of the original purchase at retail, and no warranties, whether expressed or implied, shall apply to
this product thereafter. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, therefore these
exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may also have other
rights which vary from state to state.
If your product needs service, you should contact Wāvtech Customer Service to receive a Return
Authorization (RA) Number. Any product received without an RA number will be returned to sender.
Once your product is received and inspected by customer service, Wāvtech at its sole discretion, will
repair or replace it with a new or remanufactured product at no charge. Damage caused by the following
is not covered under warranty: accident, abuse, failure to follow instructions, misuse, modification,
neglect, unauthorized repair or water damage. This warranty does not cover incidental or consequential
damages. This warranty does not cover the cost of removing or reinstalling the product. Cosmetic
damage and normal wear are not covered under warranty.
For Service within the United States:
Wāvtech Customer Service: [phone]
Monday – Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm MST
Important Notice for International Customers:
For products purchased outside the United States of America or its Territories, please contact your local
distributor concerning specific procedures for your country's warranty policy. International purchases are
not covered by Wāvtech, LLC.
Installation Notes
Vehicle Description
ŸYear, Make, Model:
ŸTrim Level / Package:
OEM Audio System Info
ŸHead Unit (type, BT/AUX in, etc.):
ŸSpeakers (size/location, etc.):
ŸSubwoofer(s) (size/location, etc.):
ŸAmplifier(s) (location, output voltage, etc.):
ŸOther:
bassRESTOR Connections & Settings
ŸInstalled Location:
ŸWiring (connection locations, signal type, turn-on mode, etc):
ŸSettings (gain, max master vol, crossover, etc.):
ŸOther:
System Configuration:
Serial Number:
Installation Date:
Place of Purchase:

©Copyright 2018 Wāvtech, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
7931 E. Pecos Rd
Suite 113
Mesa, AZ 85212
[phone]
v1118