PowerPlus Amplifiers
420, 840, 900, 1150, 1302, 1304
Installation & Operation Manual
Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Features and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Wiring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Speaker Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Indicators and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Remote Input Level Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CEA Power Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
PowerPlus Amplifiers
• Signal to Noise @ 1 kHz: >100dB (rated power)
Features and Specifications
• Channel Separation @ 1 kHz: >60dB
• Frequency Response: 5-60 kHz, -3dB
• Input Impedance: 20 kHz, nominal
Your new PowerPlus Jensen mobile stereo power amplifier is the amplifier of
choice for the high demands of auto sound reproduction. With its deep-bass
reproduction and plenty of reserve power, low harmonic distortion and neutral
reproduction, the PowerPlus series of amplifiers takes Mobile Hi-Fi to new
heights. Like all Jensen products, when it comes to accurate sound
reproduction the PowerPlus series takes a back seat to no one. Jensen will
bring your Hi-Fi experience to new heights with the following features:
• THD+N @ 5 watts: 0.02%, 1 kHz, 14.4VDC
PowerPlus 900 / 1150
• Signal to Noise @ 125Hz: >100dB (rated power)
• Channel Separation not applicable
• THD+N @ 5 watts: 0.02%, 125Hz, 14.4VDC
• Low profile Aluminum extruded heat sink
• Pass-Thru RCA's
• Variable Bass EQ 0 - 12dB @ 45Hz
• 12dB / octave Low Pass and High Pass filters
• Variable Input Level 400mV - 5V
Power Output
RMS Power Output @ 2% THD+N, 1kHz, 14.4VDC
PowerPlus 420
• Encapsulated power and speaker connectors
• Short circuit, DC-offset and Thermal Overload protection circuitry
• Blue illuminated VU level meter(s)
• 75 x 2 Watts, 4-ohm
• 110 x 2 Watts, 2-ohm
• 210 x 1 Watts, 4-ohm Bridged
• Diagnostic LED's - Green: Power, Red: Standby / Fault
PowerPlus 840
PowerPlus 420 / 840 / 1304
• 75 x 4 Watts, 4-ohm
• 110 x 4 Watts, 2-ohm
• 210 x 2 Watts, 4-ohm Bridged Stereo
• Low Pass filter 40 - 240Hz
• High Pass filter 40 - 400Hz
• High Pass/Low Pass/Full Range selector switch
• Stereo/Mono Mode switch (PowerPlus 420)
• 2/3/4 Channel Mode switch (PowerPlus 840 and 1304)
PowerPlus 900
• 275 x 1 Watts, 4-ohm
• 450 x 1 Watts, 2-ohm
PowerPlus 1302
PowerPlus 1302
• Low Pass filter 50 - 250Hz
• 195 x 2 Watts, 4-ohm
• High Pass filter 40 - 500Hz
• 320 x 2 Watts, 2-ohm
• 650 x 1 Watts, 4-ohm Bridged
• High Pass / Low Pass / Full Range selector switch
• Stereo/Mono Mode switch
• Remote Input Level Control w/ 5 meter interface cable
PowerPlus 1304
PowerPlus 900 / 1150
• 125 x 4 Watts, 4-ohm
• 160 x 4 Watts, 2-ohm
• Mono subwoofer amp
• 325 x 2 Watts, 4-ohm Bridged Stereo
• Low Pass filter 40 - 250Hz
• Subsonic filter 10 - 40Hz, 12dB / octave
• Remote Input Level Control w/ 5 meter interface cable
PowerPlus 1150
• 350 x 1 Watts, 4-ohm
• 575 x 1 Watts, 2-ohm
Specifications
PowerPlus 420 / 840 / 1302 / 1304
• Load Impedance: 2-4ohm
Specifications subject to change without notice.
3
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Installation
Before you begin the installation of your PowerPlus series amp remember,
there are two ways to do things – right and twice! Use the proper installation
techniques, tools and accessories to ensure that your Jensen PowerPlus
series amp will put out all the power it was designed to. If necessary, seek a
professional installer to have the amplifier installed correctly. Most mobile amp
installations do not have the proper gauge wire for power and ground – do not
let your amp be a victim of this common installation oversight!
going to the vehicle chassis) and make sure the battery is grounded to the
chassis with at least a #8 gauge wire. Also check the alternator connections,
making sure they are tight and free from corrosion, rust or dirt.
Location and Mounting
The amplifier’s compact design allows great flexibility in mounting. Common
mounting locations include under the front passenger seat or in the trunk area.
When selecting a location, remember that amplifiers generate heat. Select a
location on a flat surface away from heat and moisture where air can circulate
around the amplifier.
NOTE: This device is a high-power audio amplifier intended for
installation in vehicles with a 12-Volt negative ground electrical system.
Attempting to connect or operate the amplifier with another type of
electrical system may cause damage to the amplifier or the electrical
system.
Place the amplifier in the mounting location and mark the positions of the holes
with a marker, pen or pencil. Carefully drill the mounting holes in the marked
positions, then use the supplied mounting screws to securely fasten the
amplifier to the mounting surface.
Installation Assistance
For installation assistance, call 1-800-323-4815 during normal business hours,
WARNING: Do not cover the amplifier with carpets or enclose it behind
interior trim panels, and do not mount the amplifier in an inverted or
upside down configuration. Be sure the mounting location and the
drilling of pilot holes will not damage any wires, control cables, fuel
lines, fuel tanks, hydraulic lines or other vehicle systems or components.
Supplies and Tools Needed
To install the amplifier, you will need tools, supplies and adapters. It is best to
make sure you have everything you need before you start.
Supplies
Routing Wires
• Black electrical tape
• Amplifier Installation Kit
Proper wiring connections are illustrated on the following pages. If wiring
connections are made incorrectly, the unit will not operate properly and could
become permanently damaged. Follow the installation instructions carefully, or
have the amplifier installed by an experienced technician.
Tools
• Cordless drill with assortment of bits
• Flat-head and Philips screwdrivers
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Crimping tool
• 12-volt test light or digital multimeter
• Wire brush, sandpaper or scraping tool (ground connection to vehicle should
be a clean, unpainted metal surface)
Disconnect Battery
Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable before starting the installation. Check
the battery ground (there should be two (2) ground wires coming from the
battery – one going to the starter mounting bolt or engine block and another
4
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Power Wiring
Charging System
Power Terminal (+12V/B+)
In some cases, the installation of just one (1) amplifier could be enough to
overload your factory electrical system (i.e., alternator). Depending on the
state of your electrical system and overall condition of your vehicle, you may
need to upgrade your alternator and battery. After the vehicle is started, the
alternator provides the power to your electrical system, not the battery. When
the engine is running, the alternator is your main source of power. Upgrading
the alternator should be your first consideration if you should experience a
voltage drop in the system when operating your audio system. Adding
capacitors and/or batteries without upgrading the alternator will only make the
problem worse because these devices put an extra load on the alternator. After
upgrading the alternator, capacitors and/or batteries can be installed if desired.
Connect the main power wire to the battery, within 18 inches from the positive
(+) battery post, using an adequate size fuse or circuit breaker capable of
handling the current of the selected power wire. A fuse or circuit breaker must
be installed to prevent a possible electrical fire should the main power wire
short to ground.
Battery Terminal
Adaptor
Fuse or Circuit Breaker
Use the following recommended wire gauge as a guide when installing your
amplifier(s):
Install as close to the
battery as possible.
MODEL NUMBER
MAX CURRENT DRAW
MIN WIRE GAUGE
420
840
30A
50A
90A
120A
60A
80A
#8
#8
#4
#4
#6
#8
Remote Terminal (REM)
900
Connect the power antenna or amplifier turn-on lead from the receiver to the
amplifier remote terminal.
1150
1302
1304
Remote Turn-On (Power Antenna)
L
E
R
C
D
2620
A
L
B
FA
D
E
B
V
O
E
L
R
T
S
S
A
B
CD
-
AU
X
IN
i
EQ
C
D
4
R
E
40
C
E
IV
W
A
JPT
E
R
H
T
T
Sx
4
LOC/DX
1
2 IN
T
SUB-W
B-
3
RPT
W
CHANGER
DN
MONO
O
NO
4
S
H
F
MODE
OD
E
5
i
X
-
BA
SS
AUX
X
6
AS/PS
S/P
UP
S
B
A
DISP
IS
N
D
P
S
C
A
N
i
E
Q
M
U
TE
5
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Ground Terminal (GND)
Make the ground lead as short as possible, leaving enough length to complete
the installation and to allow for any service that may be needed at a later date.
To ensure a good ground, scrape away any paint or undercoating to expose
bare metal. Use a "ring" terminal of the proper gauge and an "outside star
washer" (between the chassis and ring terminal) when making your ground
connection. Although you’ve scraped away the paint to expose bare metal, the
outside star washer will help to "bite into" the chassis for a tight, secure
ground.
Drill hole in chassis sheet metal.
Replacement Fuse Requirements (FUSE)
Model
420
Quantity
Amps
15
Type
ATO
ATO
ATO
ATO
MAXI
MAXI
2
2
3
4
1
1
480
25
900
30
1150
1302
1304
30
60A
80A
6
PowerPlus Amplifiers
PowerPlus 420/1302
Speaker Wiring
The Speaker Wiring diagrams illustrate options for connecting one or two
speakers. Observe the proper speaker polarity.
Two Speakers
One Subwoofer
NOTE: PowerPlus amplifiers can drive speakers with a nominal
impedance range of 2~ 4-ohms. For maximum power, configure your
speakers for a nominal 2-ohm load.
NOTE: Do not overlook the use of the proper gauge speaker wire. The
PowerPlus series of amplifiers require a minimum of 12-gauge wire.
PowerPlus 900/1150
2 ohm nominal
Two Subwoofers
One Subwoofer
4 ohm nominal
–
–
+
+
–
–
+
+
SPEAKER OUTPUT
SPEAKER OUTPUT
Tri-Mode
L
Inductor
2 ohm nominal
4 ohm nominal
C
HPF LPF FULL
L
C
Capacitor
4 ohm minimum
7
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Two Speakers and Bridged Subwoofer
PowerPlus 840/1304
Four Speakers
HPF LPF OFF
HPF LPF OFF
HPF LPF OFF
HPF LPF OFF
SPEAKER OUTPUT
CH4
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+
CH1 – + CH2 – + CH3 – +
–
CH4
+
CH1 – + CH2 – + CH3 – +
–
+ BRIDGED – + BRIDGED –
+ BRIDGED – + BRIDGED –
4 ohm nominal
2 ohm minimum
4 ohm nominal
4 ohm nominal
2 ohm minimum
4 ohm nominal
2 ohm minimum
Two Subwoofers
HPF LPF OFF
HPF LPF OFF
SPEAKER OUTPUT
CH4
+
CH1 – + CH2 – + CH3 – +
–
+ BRIDGED – + BRIDGED –
4 ohm nominal
4 ohm nominal
8
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Input Wiring
Most trunk/hatchback installations will require a 15-20 foot RCA cable, while
pickup trucks and under-seat mounting will require a 6-12 foot RCA cable.
Connect an RCA cable from your receiver to the RCA input on your amplifier.
PowerPlus 840/1304
The PowerPlus 1304 and 840 can be configured for three different input
modes: 2 channel, 3 channel or 4 channel.
PowerPlus 420/900/1150/1302
Input Wiring - Stereo Mode
2 Channel
RCA Cable
MODE
CAR STEREO /
SOURCE UNIT
4 3 2
MODE
CH3
CH4
CH1
Input Wiring - Mono Mode
4
3
2
HPF LPF OFF 40Hz 240Hz 40Hz 400Hz 0dB
12dB 5V
0.4V
5V
0.4V 0dB
12dB 40Hz 400Hz 40Hz 240Hz
HPF LPF OFF
X-OVER
X-OVER LPF
HPF BASS EQ GAIN
3/4 INPUT
OUTPUT
1/2 INPUT GAIN BASS EQ HPF
LPF
RCA Cable
CAR STEREO /
SOURCE UNIT
3 Channel
MODE
4 3 2
MODE
CH3
H4
CH1
CH
4
3
2
HPF LPF OFF 40Hz 240Hz 40Hz 400Hz 0dB
12dB 5V
0.4V
5V
0.4V 0dB
12dB 40Hz 400Hz 40Hz 240Hz
HPF LPF OFF
X-OVER LPF
HPF BASS EQ GAIN
3/4 INPUT
OUTPUT
1/2 INPUT GAIN BASS EQ HPF
LPF
X-OVER
9
PowerPlus Amplifiers
4 Channel
MODE
4 3 2
MODE
CH3
CH1
4
3
2
HPF LPF OFF 40Hz 240Hz 40Hz 400Hz 0dB
12dB 5V
0.4V
5V
0.4V 0dB
12dB 40Hz 400Hz 40Hz 240Hz
HPF LPF OFF
X-OVER
X-OVER LPF
HPF BASS EQ GAIN
3/4 INPUT
OUTPUT
1/2 INPUT GAIN BASS EQ HPF
LPF
NOTE: The use of good quality RCA cables is just as important as power
and speaker wire. Choose a high quality low capacitance cable for the
best results.
Connecting Additional Amplifiers
Pass-Thru RCA connectors are provided to connect additional amplifiers
without the need to purchase "Y" adapters.
10
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Indicators and Controls
Power Indicator (POWER)
speakers (6 1/2", 6 X 9", etc.) by adjusting the crossover to a higher setting
(80–100Hz).
The power indicator provides a visual indication that the amplifier is turned on.
Crossover (X-OVER)
Input Level Control (LEVEL/GAIN)
The Jensen PowerPlus series of amplifiers have built-in low-pass and high-
pass crossover filters for bi-amplifying the system. Adjust the crossover to
accommodate your chosen installation method. Select LPF (low pass filter)
when the amplifier will be driving woofers or subwoofers. Choose FULL or OFF
when crossover mode is not active and the amplifier is in “full range” mode.
Select HPF (high pass filter) when the amplifier will be driving full-range or
separate speakers, and you want to limit the “bass” being transferred to these
speakers.
The INPUT LEVEL control (or GAIN) matches the output of your radio to the
input of the amplifier. After the installation is complete, make sure the input
level control on the amplifier is turned down all the way (counter-clockwise or
all the way to the left). Play a tape or CD (make sure bass and treble settings
or Bass EQ are flat) and turn the volume up slowly until you just start to hear
distortion. Back the volume down just a bit. On the amplifier, slowly turn up the
input level control (clockwise or to the right) until you just start to hear
distortion, then back it down a bit. Now your radio and amplifier levels are
matched.
Mode Switch
PowerPlus 420 and 1302
BASS EQ
The 420 and 1302 come equiped with a ST/MO (stereo/mono) MODE switch.
Use STEREO mode when you have a 2-channel input from the source unit.
Use MONO mode when you have a single input from the source unit. See
“Input Wiring” on page 9.
The Bass EQ is continuously adjustable from 0 to +12dB @ 45Hz. Adjusting
the Bass Boost level allows different subwoofer/enclosure combinations to be
equalized. Use this control to increase the level of low bass available from your
subwoofer/enclosure combination. Ported and Band Pass enclosures should
be limited to about +6dB to +9dB of boost. Sealed enclosures should be able
to accept the full +12dB of boost, if necessary. The full +12dB of boost should
be reserved for special applications since improper use of the Bass Boost
could damage your subwoofers at high volumes.
PowerPlus 840 and 1304
The 840 and 1304 come equiped with a 4/3/2 MODE switch and can be
configured for three different input modes: 2 channel, 3 channel or 4 channel.
Low Pass Filter (LPF)
The Low Pass Filter controls adjust the crossover point. Typical crossover is
between 60Hz and 80Hz for ported and sealed enclosures. Bandpass boxes
will typically use a higher crossover setting between 125Hz and 150Hz. Since
musical tastes vary, you should play music that you would normally listen to in
your vehicle, with the above settings as a starting point. If necessary, set the
crossover by ear.
High Pass Filter (HPF)
The high pass filter will limit the low frequencies being transmitted to your
speakers. This can be useful in number of situations. For example, if you
selected the high pass filter and set the crossover to 40Hz, then you would
have an infra-sonic (sub-sonic) filter at 40Hz, which would be useful with
certain enclosure/subwoofer combinations that were tuned between 45Hz and
50Hz. Other uses might include limiting the low frequencies to smaller
11
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Testing
Remote Input Level Control
Before finishing the installation, perform the following tests to make sure the
wiring is correct and everything is operating properly.
The PowerPlus 900, 1150 and 1302 come equipped with a Remote Input
Level Control. The Remote Input Level Control allows the input level to be
adjusted from an alternate location. It can be mounted under-dash or in-dash.
When the amplifier is used to drive subwoofers and the low pass crossover is
activated, the Remote Input Level Control can be used as a “remote bass level
control”. This enables you to control the bass level independent from the rest
of the system. This is convenient for system tuning and/or when playing many
different types of music.
Reconnect Battery
When wiring is complete, reconnect the battery negative terminal.
Test Power Wiring
Turn on the receiver, but do not turn up the volume. The amplifier power light
should come on. If not, check the REM and +12V (B+) wires. Turn up the
receiver volume slightly. All speakers should operate. If not, check wiring
connections at amplifier and speakers.
The Remote Input Level Control uses a 6-pin modular cable for connectivity.
Simply plug the 6-pin modular cable into the amplifier and then into the
Remote Input Level Control to activate the circuit.
Test Speaker Connections
These tests make sure the speakers are connected properly. If speakers don’t
play at all, one (or both) speaker wires may be disconnected.
Power
Min
Max
50
250
500
12
PowerPlus Amplifiers
Short circuit
protection activated
Blown speakers
Speaker wire(s) shorting Check for faulty wiring
to ground
Defective crossover
Amp connected to
Check all speakers
Troubleshooting
Problem
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
Check fuse(s)
Amplifier does not
turn on
No power to +12V
terminal
Faulty passive crossover
Check speaker connections
Low impedance
protection activated improper load
No power to REM
terminal
Blown main fuse at
battery
Check head unit fuse(s) and
wiring
Replace fuse and identify
cause of failure
Replace fuse and identify
cause of failure
Re-ground main power
ground to bare metal
chassis
Amp will not drive a 1
ohm mono load, 2 ohm connected properly
minimum in mono
configuration
Speakers defective/
blown
Faulty passive
crossovers
Verify that speakers are
Blown fuse at amplifier
Check speakers
Faulty ground
Check crossovers
Volume control too
sensitive
Distorted sound
Input level control
adjusted too high
Input level control
adjusted too high
Re-adjust the input level
(refer to page 8)
Re-adjust the input level
(refer to page 8)
Poor bass response Speakers out of phase
Check speaker polarity;
reverse the connection to
one speaker only if two
subwoofers are connected
to the amplifier.
Blows fuse(s) at amp Power wires connected Reconnect power wires
backwards
properly
Internal problem with
amp
Ground loop(s)
Take unit for service
NOTE: If the protection light is activated with no speakers connected to
the amplifier, and all the power connections are correct, this would
indicate an internal problem with the amplifier.
Engine noise /
Alternator whine
Use good quality shielded
RCA cables
Faulty ground at amp
Re-ground amp to clean
bare metal chassis
Faulty ground at head
unit
Inductive coupling
Re-ground head unit to
clean bare metal chassis
Re-route RCA and/or
speaker wires away from
factory harnesses
Input level on amp set
too high
Re-adjust input level (refer
to page 8)
Thermal protection
activated
Amplifier driving 2 ohm If the amplifier “thermals”
load for long durations
frequently while driving
subwoofers, install fan to
keep amp cool.
13
PowerPlus Amplifiers
CEA Power Output
PowerPlus 1302
Power Output: 175 watts RMS X 2 channels into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dBA below reference (Reference: 1 watt, 4-ohms)
Additional Power Output:
280 watts RMS X 2 channels into 2-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
570 watts RMS X 1 channels (Bridged Mono) into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 60 kHz, -3dB (Reference: 1 watt)
Dimensions: L15.5" x 2.5" x 11.75"
PowerPlus 1304
Power Output: 117 watts RMS X 4 channels into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dBA below reference (Reference: 1 watt, 4-ohms)
Additional Power Output:
145 watts RMS X 4 channels into 2-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
290 watts RMS X 2 channels (Bridged Stereo) into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 60 kHz, -3dB (Reference: 1 watt)
Dimensions: L15.5" x 2.5" x 11.75"
RMS Power Output @ 1% THD+N, 14.4VDC
PowerPlus 420
Power Output: 65 watts RMS X 2 channels into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dBA below reference (Reference: 1 watt, 4-ohms)
Additional Power Output:
90 watts RMS X 2 channels into 2-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
170 watts RMS X 1 channels (Bridged Mono) into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 60 kHz, -3dB (Reference: 1 watt)
Dimensions: L10.5" x H2.5" x W11.75"
PowerPlus 840
Power Output: 70 watts RMS X 4 channels into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dBA below reference (Reference: 1 watt, 4-ohms)
Additional Power Output:
100 watts RMS X 4 channels into 2-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
175 watts RMS X 2 channels (Bridged Stereo) into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 60 kHz, -3dB (Reference: 1 watt)
Dimensions: L14" x H2.5" x W11.75"
PowerPlus 900
Power Output: 260 watts RMS X 1 channels into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dBA below reference (Reference: 1 watt, 4-ohms)
Additional Power Output:
430 watts RMS X 1 channels into 2-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 240Hz, -3dB (Reference: 1 watt)
Dimensions: L17.25" x H2.5" x W11.75"
PowerPlus 1150
Audiovox Electronics Corporation
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Power Output: 330 watts RMS X 1 channels into 4-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dBA below reference (Reference: 1 watt, 4-ohms)
Additional Power Output:
550 watts RMS X 1 channels into 2-ohms @ < 1% THD+N
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 240Hz, -3dB (Reference: 1 watt)
Dimensions: L19" x H2.5" x W11.75"
1-800-323-4815
© 2006 Audiovox
v. 111806
14
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