FAQ

If you can't find the answer to your question here, you can contact us at:

AAMP of America
Toll Free: 800.477.2267
Fax: 800.444.6044
CustomerService@aampofamerica.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Amplifiers

 What is the best amplifier for my speakers? How much power do I need?
For optimum speaker performance, the general rule is to match the RMS power output of the
amplifier to the continuous power handling of the speakers. When using multiple speakers on a
single channel, the combined power handling and final impedance of the speakers should be
determined when evaluating an amplifier's output power.
Depending on your system output requirements, less amplification may be adequate, however, the
power will not be sufficient to drive the speakers up to their full power handling potential.
Inadequate power may also result in distortion and speaker damage if gain levels are high enough to
overdrive the amplifier.

If additional headroom is desired to provide reserve power for enhanced clarity and undistorted
reproduction of program “peaks,” use an amplifier with output that is 50% - 100% above the
continuous power handling of the speakers. In this case, the user must exercise care with system gain
to control the amount of amplifier power that is applied to the speakers.

 Can I use only one amplifier to power a pair of speakers and a subwoofer?
A four-channel amp can be used for three-channel operation. With this format, the two front
channels are used to power the full-range speakers in stereo while the rear channels are bridged to
drive the subwoofer(s). Typically, the hi-pass filter (HP) is selected for the front channels and the
low-pass filter (LP) is selected for the rear channels.

 Where should my amplifier be mounted?

The most common location is in the vehicle's trunk. Amplifiers can also be mounting under a seat if
there is enough clearance to allow proper ventilation. Possible exposure to vibration, moisture, or
heat should also be considered. Amplifiers should be located where ventilation is adequate. It should
not be mounted in a location where its ability to dissipate heat is impaired. The unit can be
positioned horizontally or vertically, but not upside-down. You should also make sure the amplifier
is not mounted to a conductive surface. If the amplifier is touching the metal of the vehicle, either
 directly through the case or through the mounting screws, there will likely be a problem. In most
cases this will cause the amplifier to go into protection mode, and sometimes may not allow the amp
to turn on at all.

 Is it ok to mount an amplifier upside down?

Not recommended. The amplifier should be mounted in a horizontal or vertical position. Upside-
down positioning will impair the amplifier's ability to dissipate heat.

 How much space/ventilation does my amplifier need?

Enough to allow the effective dissipation of heat. At least several inches of open space around the
amplifier is recommended.

 Where should my amp be grounded?

It is preferable to connect the ground cable directly to the battery. This helps avoid voltage losses and
minimize the possibility of ground related noise.

The other option is to ground the cable to the vehicle chassis (frame, strut tower, trunk floor). When
grounding to the chassis, the grounding surface should be cleaned of paint, dirt, oil, etc. so that only
bare metal is used. The negative power wire should be as short as possible and of the same gauge as
the positive power cable connected to the battery.

In general, the ground cables of all audio components in the system should be grounded to the same
point on the vehicle. It is recommended that the connection be covered with paint, caulk or a similar
protective coating to prevent rust.

 Where do I connect the remote terminal on my amplifier?

The remote terminal (labeled "R") on your power connector should be connected to the remote
output lead (switched 12 volt power) from the head unit.

 How do I connect my factory head unit to an amplifier?

Factory head units generally do not provide preamp outputs (RCA). Many Phoenix Gold amplifiers
provide high level (speaker level) inputs that will accept a connection from the speaker outputs of a
factory head unit. If your amplifier does not have high level inputs, a line driver such as the SLD44
will accept high level inputs and provide line level outputs to the amplifier inputs.

 What is the LPL port on my amplifier?

The phone jack type connector labeled “LPL” is for connection of an optional remote Low Pass
Level control. Phoenix Gold's LPL44 provides remote control of the bass level from the front dash
and is connected to the amp by a 20 foot cable (included). The LPL does not increase bass output,
but allows 20dB of attenuation. The LPL44 will not affect frequency as this is controlled by the
crossover frequency setting on the amplifier.
 What is the RMD port for?
Phoenix Gold equips many amplifier models with an RMD port. The RMD port is to connect an
 optional Remote Monitor Display unit. The RMD monitors the input voltage to an amplifier and
provides a constant digital display of the voltage.

 How do I set the gain level on my amplifier?

A setup procedure is usually found in the owner's manual for the amplifier.

The basic procedure:

o Configure crossover on amplifier.
o Turn the Sens (sensitivity) control to minimum position
o If using LP (low-pass) mode, set frequency control to 10 O'clock position. Fine tune later.
o Set head unit volume to minimum and power on unit.
o Set head unit's tone controls, balance, and fader to the center position.
o Use a CD that is typical of music to be played. Turn head unit volume to 90% of full or until
distortion is audible (if head unit's internal amplifier is being used.
o Turn amplifier's sensitivity control up until audible distortion is heard and then turn down
until distortion disappears.
o With 4-channel amps, the setup procedure should be performed level on 2 channels at a time.
o With all speakers playing, adjust levels to balance the outputs so that all channels reach
maximum output without distortion at the same high volume setting on the head unit.

 My monoblock amp has two sets of speaker output terminals. Is this amp bridgeable?
No. Monoblock amplifiers have only one channel, so bridging does not apply. Many PG monoblock
amplifiers provide two sets of speaker outputs for wiring convenience. The two outputs are internally
connected in parallel. If both are used, a parallel connection of the two speakers will result. Two 4
ohm speakers become a 2 ohm load.

 How do I bridge a 4 channel amp to drive my left and right front speakers?
In order to avoid summing the left and right channels of the stereo program, two sets of high-quality
y-adaptors (splitters) will be needed. Each channel (Left and Right) from the head unit must be
connected to both amplifier inputs (L and R) of the front or rear pair of channels. The amp can then
be setup for mono operation as normal with the front channels driving one side (Left) and the rear
channels driving the other side (Right).

 How do I connect multiple amplifiers?

Multiple amplifiers can be connected by using the line outputs (auxiliary) of one amp to supply input
signal to the next amp. Most PG amplifiers allow crossover configuration for the line outputs.
Multiple amps can also be directly connected to the outputs of active crossovers or the preamp
outputs (full range and sub) of the head unit.

 What is the function of the sub-sonic filter?

Most Phoenix Gold monoblock amplifiers are equipped with sub-sonic filters. The use of the filter
allows frequencies below the musical audio spectrum to be removed. Frequencies below 20 Hz are
considered sub-sonic since they are below what the human ear perceives as sound.

The use of a sub-sonic filter is especially recommended for subwoofers installed in vented
 enclosures. This limits the possibility of mechanically overdriving the speaker by removing
powerful, but non-musical low frequencies from the signal.

The benefits of the sub-sonic filter:

Conserves amplifier power. Amp power is not consumed by low frequency signal. Results in
improved audio clarity. Speakers are relieved of the burden of reproducing sub-sonic frequencies,
which allows improved accuracy and transient response.

 My amp shuts down. What could be the problem?

There are several conditions that may cause this: thermal shutdown due to heat, over-current due to
low impedance or short. Insufficient power input voltage (<10 volts) may cause amplifier to power
down completely.

 How do I know if my amplifier's getting input power?

Use a volt meter (or digital multi-meter) to read voltage at the power input terminals of the amplifier.
With the head unit on, connect the meter between the B+ and B- terminals. The voltage should
measure between 12.2 and 14.6 volts.

If your amp does not turn on, power on the head unit and connect a voltmeter between the REM
(remote) terminal and the B- terminal to determine if voltage is present.

 What does it mean when the LEDs flash on my amplifier?

With most recently produced Phoenix Gold amplifiers, a flashing/blinking LED is an indication that
the unit is in protect mode, usually due to an overcurrent condition caused by an internal short,
external short (speakers), or low impedance. Overheating will also cause the amplifier to shut down
temporarily.

If amplifier remains in protect mode, power down the amplifier, disconnect the speakers, and power
up again. If LEDs continue to flash, there is probably an internal problem with the amplifier that will
require service attention to fix.

 I am getting engine noise/alternator whine through my system. What is the cause?

There are a variety of causes that produce engine noise. Consult our troubleshooting guide for tips on
solving this problem.

In many cases the problem can be solved by connecting the head unit's ground cable to the
amplifier's ground point on the vehicle. Another possible solution is to reroute the head unit's power
cable (with fuse) directly to the battery and bypass the battery terminal in the fuse box.

 What is the power output of my amplifier?

Power output ratings are found in the specifications section of the operation manual. Manuals for
most models are available at the PG Download Center. The meaningful power output specification is
RMS power or “continuous” power output.
  What is RMS (continuous) power output?
In general terms, RMS is an indication of the average continuous output of an amplifier. More
specifically, "continuous power output" is a measurement of the power output of one channel into a
specified load (typically 4 ohms) below a certain distortion level (usually 1%THD or less) at a
certain frequency (usually 1kHz). An amplifier should be able to sustain the continuous power output
level for extended periods of time without problems such as overheating. The best measure of an
amplifier's power is its continuous power rating.

 What is Peak Power output?

Sometimes stated as “Maximum Power,” peak power output is the maximum power an amplifier can
deliver at a certain impedance for a very short period of time. A peak power test is usually performed
with a 1 kHz signal and may produce a distortion level much higher than that of the RMS power
output. A peak power rating is usually 50-100% higher than the continuous power output rating.

 What is a high current amplifier?

The term “high-current" usually refers to the ability of an amplifier to deliver high levels of current
with low impedance loads. The componentry used in high current amplifiers is capable of sustaining
a high current levels without overheating. This allows the amp to be stable at low impedance loads.

Speakers

 Is a sealed or vented enclosure better for my PG subwoofers?

Most PG subwoofers strongly favor sealed enclosures. Vented enclosures may also be used, but
performance and frequency response may be less than optimal. If a ported box is used, sub-sonic
filtering is recommended.

 Does Phoenix Gold provide dimensions for subwoofer enclosures?

PG provides optimal enclosure volume recommendations that maximize performance and power
handling. We leave it to the user to determine the ideal dimensions and shape for the vehicle and
available space. Many combinations of height, width, and depth can be used as long as resulting
cubic volume is close to the recommendation.

Tips:
All dimensions are internal
H (height) X W (width) X D (depth) = (V) cubic volume
Convert cubic feet to cubic inches (cubic feet X 1728 = cubic inches)
Start with two dimensions (i.e. Height and Width: 14” and 16”)
To find Depth, use formula: D = V / (H X W)

 How do I connect my subs to get the most power from my amplifier?

First determine the load impedance that will allow the most power output from the amplifier.
Consider parallel, series, and series-parallel wiring schemes and their resulting final impedance.
Determine which wiring scheme will optimize amplifier power output. Note: Operation at lower
impedances may increase heat and distortion, and decrease efficiency.
 What are the mounting dimensions for my speakers?
Mounting dimensions for all speaker products are provided in the owner's manual. Manuals are
available at the Download center or from the Support page.

 What gauge speaker wire should I use?

The recommended minimum size for moderate power applications is 16 gauge. We recommend 12
gauge wire as a minimum for bridged mono operation or higher power applications (250 watts or
more).

 Which speakers do I need for my amplifier?

It depends how much of the amplifier's output you plan to use. If full output is to be applied, use
speakers that have continuous power handling that is at least equal to the continuous power output
rating of the amplifier. If less of the amp's output is to be used, speakers with lower power handling
may be adequate.

Determine if you will be using the amplifier with a 1, 2, or 4 ohm load. Calculate the resulting
impedance for different options such as: single voice-coil, dual voice-coil, and number or speakers.

 What is impedance?
Impedance is a measurement of AC electrical resistance. In general, lower impedances allow higher
amplifier output. Amplifiers have a minimum impedance load they are capable of tolerating without
overheating or shutting down.

 What is parallel, series, and series-parallel wiring?

Parallel wiring is a configuration that connects positive-to-positive poles and negative-to-negative
poles that will result in a total impedance that is equal to the impedance of one component divided by
the number of components connected (for components of equal impedance). A parallel connection
allows current to flow through more than one component simultaneously.

A Series connection can be described as a daisy-chain scheme where there is only a single path for
current flow. Components are connected so that current passes through one component and then the
other. Series wiring results in a total impedance that is the sum of all components connected.

A series-parallel wiring scheme is a combination of the two. It is commonly used to produce a total
impedance that is equal to the impedance of one of the components. (See diagram)

 What does the sensitivity spec mean for speakers?

The sensitivity spec is a measurement of how efficiently a speaker converts electrical energy to
acoustic output. Typically, sensitivity is measured by applying 1 watt of power to a speaker and
measuring the output at a distance of 1 meter. Sensitivity is normally stated in terms of SPL (sound
pressure level).
  What's better, a single voice-coil or dual voice-coil subwoofer?
Neither, or it depends on your application. In most cases, a dual voice-coil (DVC) speaker has the
same power handling as a single voice-coil (SVC) speaker. The dual voice-coil format allows more
flexibility for different impedance options. The choice between SVC and DVC subwoofers should be
based on the number of subs to be used and the total impedance needed to maximize amplifier
output.

Power Flow

 What gauge of power cable should I use for my amplifier?

It depends on the amplifier's RMS output, the cable length, and the maximum gauge the connector
terminal will accept. Generally, the minimum size is 8 gauge. 4 gauge cable is recommended for
most amplifiers in the 400 watt to 800 watt range. For amplifiers with output over 800 watts, 2 gauge
cable is recommended. Consult the owner's manual or power cable chart for more information.

 How much capacitance is needed for my amplifiers?

The general rule is to use 1 farad (1,000,000 uf) for every 1000 watts of total amplifier power.

 How do I determine the right value for the battery power fuse?
If your amplifiers are fused, add the combined fuse amperage values of all amps in the system. Use a
value equal to or a little higher than the total.

If your amplifier does not use fuses, the power fuse value will be based on the maximum current
draw of the amplifier, or combined current draw of all amplifiers in the system.

If the maximum current draw spec is not available, you can calculate the current draw by using the
following formula:

Amperage = (RMS Power / Efficiency) / Input Voltage

Amplifier Power Output (RMS) divided by amplifier's efficiency divided by the Input Voltage For
Xenon amplifiers, check the efficiency chart for your model

REFERENCE:

http://www.phoenixgold.com/faq.aspx