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Owner’s Manual
DESCRIPTION
The APX480M uses an unregulated MOSFET power supply for superior
sound and output wattage. In addition, a toroid-coil is used to transfer
power with minimal performance loss due to heat. To avoid unwanted
noise, a double-sided conformal printed circuit board with strategically
placed components keeps AM RFI subdued.
All of the connections and controls for the APX480M are conveniently
located at the ends of the amplifier and labeled appropriately. To ensure
the best possible electrical connections, the power, speaker, and RCA
inputs are gold-plated. An additional benefit of this amplifier is the ability to
create a 2, 3, or 4 channel amplified system with a flip of a switch (see
Application section). In the event of component failure or a short circuit, the
APX480M incorporates safe guards and an outboard ATC fuse to prevent
damage to the amplifier
INPUT CONNECTIONS AND AUDIO CONTROLs
The front panel of the APX480M contains both connections for RCA and
speaker level inputs, along with the audio controls as shown below.
Figure 1-
1. Front RCA Input Jacks
2. Rear RCA Input Jacks
3. Front Gain Control
8. Rear Mode Switch
9. Speaker Level Inputs
10. Front Frequency Control
11. Front X-Over Mode Switch
12. Rear Frequency Control
13. Rear Multiplier Switch
14. Rear X-Over Mode Switch
4. Rear Gain Control
5. Bass Boost Control
6. Rear Channel Input Selector
7. Front Mode Switch
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APX480M Power System Amplifier
The Input Connections are gold-plated RCA Jacks and are labeled as FRONT
RIGHT, FRONT LEFT, REAR RIGHT and REAR LEFT. The Gain Controls
provide a wide adjustment range to accommodate output levels from any
brand of source unit.
• Gain Controls - Seperate Front and Rear Gain Controls allow you to set the
nominal operating level of the amplifier. The amplifier’s range, 250mV to 2.5V
for RCA inputs or 500mV to 5V for speaker level inputs, can accommodate
input levels from virtually any brand of source unit.
• Bass Boost Control - The amplifier also features a “high-Q” (i.e. narrow
frequency band) Bass Boost circuit. It acts much like an equalizer, with
adjustable gain (from 0 to +18dB) fixed at 45Hz. Use this feature to tune low-
frequency audio response to compensate for a less than ideal subwoofer
enclosure design. The added boost produces rich, full bass tones that are
normally difficult to reproduce in the car audio environment. NOTE: If Bass
Boost is undesired, set Bass Boost to 0dB.
High-pass/Low-pass Filter Controls
• Freq (Hz) Controls - The front crossover frequency is fully adjustable
between 55Hz and 550Hz. The rear crossover frequency is fully adjustable
between 55Hz and 5500Hz (via the Rear Crossover Frequency Multiplier) for
a wider range of crossover points. Use this feature, along with your speaker
manufacturer’s recommended crossover frequencies, to quickly design a
more advanced system (see Applications on page 6). NOTE: If either of the
X-Over Mode Switches is set to OFF, varying the Freq (Hz) Control will pro-
duce no effect.
• Rear X-Over Frequency Multiplier Switch - When engaged, this switch
increases the crossover frequency of the rear channels by a factor of 10.
Example: If the Freq (Hz) dial is set for 240Hz, pushing in the Multiplier
Switch changes the setting to 2400Hz.
• X-Over Mode Switches - These switches are equipped with 12dB per
octave electronic filters for precise frequency attenuation with minimal phase
distortion. The steep crossover slopes keep midrange tones out of the sub-
woofer and thereby eliminating an unnatural “nasal” tone quality in the audio
system. Each filter is activated by sliding the X-Over Mode Switch to either LP
or HP.
• Input Mode Switches - These switches allow you to set the input mode for
front and rear channels. Stereo input allows full left and right stereo operation.
Right (bridged) input allows a single channel input for bridged operation. This
is especially useful in high powered systems when using the APX480M as a
bridged 2-channel amplifier. L + R (sum mono) allows a stereo input to be
summed into a mono output.
• Rear Channel Input Select - This switch allows you to use a 2 channel
input to drive all 4 channels of this amplifier.
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Operation/Installation Manual
• Speaker Level Inputs - These provide connections for a high-level stereo
source. In addition, these connections are provided for installations when the
source unit’s RCA outputs are unavailable.
WARNING: When using the speaker (high-level) inputs, the Black wire must
be grounded at the Radio. Failure to do this will result in noise and improper
operation.
CONNECTIONS FOR POWER AND SPEAKERS
The rear panel of the APX480M contains power and speaker connections as
shown below.
Figure 2
1. Left Front Speaker Output
2. Right Front Speaker Output
3. Remote Turn-on Input
4. Ground Input
5. Battery + 12v Input
6. 40 Amp Fuse
7. Left Rear Speaker Output
8. Right Rear Speaker Output
Figure 3 - Electrical connections
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APX480M Power System Amplifier
INSTALLATION
This section suggests Mounting and Wiring Precautions for installing the
Clarion APX480M amplifier. If you do not posses the necessary tools and
installation experience, do not attempt to install this amplifier. Instead, con-
tact your local Clarion dealer to perform the installation.
MOUNTING PRECAUTIONS
Prior to mounting the amplifier, make sure it is safe to mount the amplifier in
that location. Failure to do so can result in serious damage to the boat. In
addition, stainless steel hardware should be used to mount the amplifier and
additional accessories. When possible, use a nut and bolt with a lock wash-
er to secure the amplifier. Extra care and attention is necessary in marine
installations due to the uncertainty of water conditions.
Additional precautions and suggestions:
1. For the most efficient cooling, mount the amplifier so cool air runs along
the length of the heat sink, rather than across them. To increase air
movement and circulation, a cooling fan can be installed.
2. Mount the amplifier on a rigid surface; avoid mounting to subwoofer
enclosures or areas prone to vibration.
3. Prior to drilling and holes, make sure the proposed mounting holes will not
cut into the fuel tank, fuel lines, electrical wiring, or through the boat.
4. Do not mount the amplifier where it is susceptible to water.
WIRING PRECAUTIONS
Read all of the wiring precautions prior to making any connections. If you
are unsure and/or don't have the necessary installation hardware, contact
your local Clarion dealer to perform the installation.
1. Before you begin the installation, make sure the source unit Power switch
is in the OFF position.
2. Disconnect the negative (-) lead of the battery (or batteries) before making
any power connections.
3. When making connections, be sure that each connection is clean and
secure. Insulate final connections with electrical tape or shrink tubing.
Failure to do so may damage your equipment.
4. A good ground is critical for the performance of the amplifier. A ground
wire should be run directly from the battery to the amplifier. Use black
insulated 10-gauge or larger wire for the amplifier's ground (-) power lead.
5. Add an additional fuse holder and fuse at the positive (+) terminal of the
battery. The fuse rating should equal the total current consumption at full
output of the amplifier(s). Use red insulated 10-gauge or larger wire for the
amplifier's positive (+) power lead. Do not install the fuse until the
complete installation has been performed.
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Operation/Installation Manual
6. When replacing the amplifier's fuse, always use one having the same
amperage rating. Substituting a higher rated fuse or a slow-blow type can
result in serious damage to the amplifier.
7. When creating passage holes for power cables, RCA's cords, and speaker
wires, use grommets to eliminate any sharp edges created during drilling.
This will protect the wire from being nicked and causing a short circuit.
8. Extra cable can cause signal loss and act as an "antenna" for noise. Use
only high-quality RCA cords that are no longer than necessary.
9. In multiple amplifier systems, it is recommended to use a relay on the
remote turn-on lead of the radio.
WIRING AND APPLICATIONS
The Clarion APX480M 4-channel marine amplifier can be used in a variety of
system applications. Here are some examples to help plan your own installa-
tion.
4-Channel Full-Range Stereo System
Figure 4
In this application, the APX480M is used as a 4-channel amplifier to drive
four full-range speakers in stereo.
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APX480M Power System Amplifier
4-Channel Stereo System
2-Channel High-Pass, 2-Channel Low-Pass
Figure 5
In this 4-channel system, the APX480M drives a pair of stereo satellites for
the front and a pair of subwoofers for the rear. Note the filter settings.
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Operation/Installation Manual
2-Channel Stereo System with Low-Pass
Bridged Mono Channel
Figure 6
The APX480M can also be used to drive a pair of stereo satellites for the
front and a single mono subwoofer for the rear. Note the filter settings.
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APX480M Power System Amplifier
2-Channel High Power System
(Satellite or Subwoofer)
Figure 7
The APX480M can be set up as a 2-channel high-power amplifier to
drive a pair of satellites (or subwoofers).
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Operation/Installation Manual
Mixed-Mode System On Rear; Full-Range
Speakers On Front
FREQ (hz)
L (mH)
C (uF)
80
8.0
6.4
5.1
4.2
3.2
497
398
318
265
199
100
125
150
200
NOTE: Chart values based on 4 Ohm speakers.
Figure 8
The amplifier can be configured for a mixed-mode operation on either
channels 1/2 or 3/4 amplifier sections. The table provides component
values to create a 6dB per octave crossover at specified frequencies. Use
components that have a + 5% tolerance and capacitors rated at 100V.
NOTE: Choose the same frequency for both LP and HP crossovers. Do
not overlap frequencies, as this may damage the amplifier.
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APX480M Power System Amplifier
SETTING THE GAIN
After completing the installation, follow these steps to set the Gain Control
and then perform the Final System Checks.
1. Turn the Gain Control all the way counter-clockwise.
2. Turn the vehicle’s Ignition Switch to the ON position. Then turn the
ON/OFF Switch on the source units to the ON position. Set all Tone or
Equalization Controls to “flat” positions and turn Loudness off.
3. Play a CD or Tape and set the Volume Control at 75% of full level.
NOTE: If the system uses an equalizer, set its frequency controls to “flat”
positions.
4. Slowly increase the Gain Control. Stop when you hear a slight distortion of
audio.
SETTING THE CROSSOVER
The Clarion APX480M features fully adjustable front and rear crossovers. To
set the crossovers, follow these steps.
1. Using the X-Over Mode Switch, select the desired mode: LP for Low Pass,
HP for High Pass or OFF for Full Range.
2. Using the Freq (Hz) Selection Control, select the desired frequency. If the
desired frequency exceeds the range of the Freq (Hz) Selection Control,
press the Crossover Frequency Multiplier Switch to increase the value by a
multiplier of 10.
• For example, 55Hz x 10 = 550Hz or 550Hz x 10 = 5.5kHz.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for both the front and rear crossovers.
SETTING THE BASS BOOST
1. Initially set the Bass Boost control to its full left position (i.e. 0dB).
2. Listen to a variety of music styles (e.g. Rock, Rap, etc.) and slowly
increase the Bass Boost control until a noticeable increase in low bass
response is perceived.
3. Slowly adjust the Bass Boost control (up or down) to realize the best bass
response.
CAUTION: If you hear a “pop” (due to speaker over-excursion), lower the
Bass Boost to prevent speaker damage. If the system sounds muddy and
distorted (due to amplifier clipping), lower Bass Boost to avoid shutdown from
overheating.
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FINAL SYSTEM CHECK
1. Start the engine and turn on the source unit. After a two-second delay,
slowly increase the Volume Control and listen to the audio. If you hear any
noise, static, distortion or no sound at all, check the connections, and also
refer to Troubleshooting. Depending on your system design, the levels may
become quite loud even at low Volume Control settings. Until you get an
“audio feel” of the system’s power, use care when adjusting controls.
2. Turn the Balance Controls to their extreme positions and listen to the
results. Audio output should match control settings (audio from the left
speaker when balance is left).
3. Increase the volume and verify that the amplifier reproduces audio (at full
frequencies) without distortion. If you hear distortion, check the connections
and verify that the Gain Control is set correctly. Another possibility is
damaged speakers or under-powered speakers. Once again refer to
Troubleshooting for additional help.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem
No Audio.
Solution
Low or no remote turn-on voltage. Check remote connections at amplifier and
source unit.
Blown amplifier fuse. Replace with new fast-blow fuse (same rating).
Power wires not connected. Check battery and ground wiring at amplifier; also
check battery connections.
Speaker leads shorted. Check speaker continuity to ground, it should not show a
common ground.
Speakers not connected or are blown. Check speaker connections at amplifier,
measure coil impedance.
Problem
Audio cycles on and off.
Solution
Thermal protection circuits are shutting amplifier off. Check location for adequate
ventilation; consult an authorized Clarion Audio Dealer.
Problem
Distorted audio.
Solution
Gain is not set properly, or damaged speaker cones. Review Setting Gain; inspect
each speaker cone for signs of damage (i.e. frozen cone, burning smell, etc.)
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APX480M Power System Amplifier
Problem
Amplifier fuse keeps blowing.
Solution
Incorrect wiring or short circuit. Review Installation and check all wiring connections.
Problem
Whining or ticking noise in the audio with engine on.
Solution
Amplifier is picking up alternator noise or radiated noise. Turn down input gain;
move audio cables away from power wires. Check power and ground connections
on amplifier; install an in-line noise filter on source unit’s power wire; check
alternator and/or voltage regulator; test for weak battery or add water to battery.
PRODUCT SPECS
Frequency Response
Signal Noise Ratio
THD
Input Sensitivity Low Level
Input Sensitivity Speaker Level
Max. Power Output
Cont. Power Output
2-Ohm Stereo Output
Bridged Power
20Hz ~ 20kHz
>95db
.05% all channels driven
250mV ~ 2.5V
500mV ~ 5V
640W (160 x4)
320W (80W x4) @.05% THD
115W x 4 @ .5% THD
230W x 2 @ .5% THD
2 1/8” H x 8 1/4” W x 12” L
46A @ 640 Watts
Dimensions
Current Consumption @ Max
Power Output
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Operation/Installation Manual
CLARION LIMITED WARRANTY
For USA and Canada only
If purchased from an authorized Clarion dealer, this product is warranted against all defects in materials
and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase. Clarion ProAudio prod-
ucts, except for speakers, are covered by a two (2) year limited warranty when purchased from and
installed by an authorized Clarion dealer.
ALL PURCHASES OF CLARION PRODUCTS FROM NON-AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALERS ARE
SUBJECT TO FURTHER WARRANTY RESTRICTIONS AS DESCRIBED BELOW.
The conditions of this limited warranty and the extent of responsibility of Clarion Corporation of America
("Clarion") under this limited warranty are as follows :
1. PROOF OF DATE OF PURCHASE WILL BE REQUIRED FOR WARRANTY SERVICE OF THIS
PRODUCT. IN THE CASE OF THE TWO (2) YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY FOR CLARION PROAUDIO
PRODUCT, PROOF OF INSTALLATION BY AN AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALER IS REQUIRED.
INFORMATION ABOUT CLARION AUTHORIZED WARRANTY SERVICE CENTERS MAY BE
OBTAINED BY CONTACTING OR WRITING CLARION AT THE ADDRESS LISTED BELOW.
2. This limited warranty will become void if service performed by anyone other than an approved Clarion
Warranty Service Center results in damage to the product.
3. This limited warranty does not apply to any product which has been subject to misuse, neglect or
accident, or which has had the serial number altered, defaced or removed, or which has been
connected, installed, adjusted or repaired, other than in accordance with the instructions furnished by
Clarion.
4. his limited warranty does not cover car static or other electrical interferences, tape head or laser pick-up
cleaning or adjustments, or labor costs for the removal or reinstallation of the unit for repair.
5. The sole responsibility of Clarion under this limited warranty shall be limited to the repair of the product
or replacement of the product, at the sole discretion of Clarion.
6. Product must be shipped in its original carton or equivalent carton, fully insured, with shipping charges
prepaid. Clarion will not assume any responsibility for any loss or damage incurred in shipping.
7. CLARION PRODUCTS, INCLUDING PROAUDIO PRODUCTS, PURCHASED FROM A SOURCE
OTHER THAN AN AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALER, INCLUDING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES VIA
THE INTERNET FROM A NON INTERNET AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALER, SHALL NOT BE
COVERED BY ANY CLARION LIMITED WARRANTY TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY APPLICABLE
LAW. IN THE EVENT AND TO THE EXTENT APPLICABLE LAW PROHIBITS ELIMINATION OF
WARRANTIES UNDER THESE CIRCUMSTANCES, THE APPLICABLE LIMITED WARRANTY PERIOD
SHALL BE DEEMED TO BE FIFTEEN (15) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE.
8. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW SHALL
HAVE NO GREATER DURATION THAN THE WARRANTY PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE. UNDER NO
CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL CLARION BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE, DIRECT OR
CONSEQUENTIAL, ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT. BECAUSE
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS OR
EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU
9. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE
OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
10.The laws of the State of California shall govern and control this limited warranty, its interpretation and
enforcement.
11. Should you have any difficulties with the performance of this product during the warranty period, please
call or visit our web site for a listing of Authorized Warranty Service Centers in your area. You may also
contact the Clarion Customer Service at the address listed below for any service help you may need
with Clarion products.
In USA:
In Canada:
Clarion Corporation of America
Attn:Customer Service Manager
661 W. Redondo Beach Blvd
Gardena, CA.90247-4201
1-800-GO-CLARION
(310)327-9100
Clarion Canada Inc.
Warranty Service Center
2239 Winston Park Drive
Oakville,Ontario L6H 5R1
(905)829-4600
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