XM2 & XM4 OWNER’S MANUAL
877 COUSTIC
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
WELCOME
…to the Coustic Car Audio world of hard-hitting, high-quality mobile audio
products. The new Coustic XM series 2-way crossovers utilize the industry's
most advanced sound engineering and manufacturing processes to offer the
highest quality electronic crossovers available on the market today.
Besides their sleek, contoured design, the new XM series 2-way crossovers
offer the latest complementary audio features. This booklet offers you a
guided tour of all these exciting benefits. For optimal sonic reproduction,
please follow the installation suggestions and recommendations as closely
as possible. The time you spend will prove to be worthwhile when you sit
back and enjoy the high fidelity music!
Whatever your needs for your ultimate car audio system, look to Coustic
Car Audio – we have the fullest range of car audio components to meet the
most critical demands.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically, mechanically, or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of Coustic or Mitek
Corporation.
Please also record the serial number of your crossover in the space provided
below and keep this manual for future reference, as well as your sales
receipt as proof of ownership. (The serial number of your crossover is marked
on the bottom of its metal chassis.)
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
3
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
FEATURES
ASYMMETRICAL ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER DESIGN
HIGH PASS AND LOW PASS VARIABLE LEVEL CONTROLS
The advantage of asymmetrical crossovers over “symmetrical” crossovers is
the ability of the former to eliminate undesirable peaks and dips in frequency
response caused by resonant frequencies present in all enclosed space. Since
the crossover points can overlap or underlap the resonant frequencies (i.e.
"asymmetrically"), Coustic XM series allows you to create an acoustically flat
and smooth frequency response environment.
The adjustable high pass and subwoofer output levels allow precise control
of the signals going to the respective amplifier.
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE CROSSOVERS POINTS
This feature allows for individual high pass and low pass crossover settings
that can be selected within a range of frequencies to ensure optimum system
performance.
LINE LEVEL INPUTS
XM series crossovers feature pre-amp inputs for use with source units that have
RCA or line level outputs. An independent set of line level inputs are provided
on the XM4 for front, rear and sub connections. These connections allow for
front to rear fading and independent sub control (see Parallel Input Switch).
BASS BOOST EQ
This feature found on the XM4 enhances the bass performance of the sound
system. The output level is continuously variable with a maximum boost of
18dB @ 45Hz.
SPEAKER LEVEL INPUTS
BASS-DRIVE™ (REMOTE SUB GAIN CONTROL PORT)
The Coustic XM2 features speaker level inputs, allowing the crossover to
work with source units that do not have RCA or line level outputs. The audio
signal can be obtained by simply connecting the XM2’s speaker level input to
the source unit’s speaker level outputs.
The optimum subwoofer output level changes with road noise that varies
according to vehicle speed, wind speed and road surfaces. With our exclusive
Bass-Drive™, the subwoofer output level can be adjusted via the model R S
remote control to minimize the undesirable effect of fluctuating road noise.
PARALLEL INPUT SWITCH
PULSE-WIDTH MODULATED (PWM) SWITCHING POWER SUPPLY
This feature allows all XM4 outputs to be driven with either a 2-, 4- or
6-channel input configuration. An adapter is not needed to split the source
signal to the front, rear, and sub inputs when the XM4 is used with a source
unit that only has a single or dual pair of RCA or line level outputs.
The Coustic XM4 features a Pulse-width modulated (PWM) switching power
supply. The PWM is used to ensure consistent output performance and to
eliminate unwanted noise caused by voltage fluctuation.
STEREO AND MONO LINE LEVEL OUTPUTS
SUB PHASE CONTROL SWITCH
The XM2 and XM4 feature line level outputs allowing for independent stereo
high pass and mono low pass signals to be sent to designated amplifiers.
The XM4 includes dual high pass outputs for front and rear fading capability
while allowing for a constant mono subwoofer output.
Depending on their placement, an acoustical delay may exist between the
time the midrange/ tweeter signals are heard and the time subwoofer signals
are heard. With the XM4’s Phase Inverter, you can compensate for the time
delay by shifting the subwoofer output signals 180 degrees out of phase
relative to the front and rear output signals.
5
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
XM2: CONTROLS, INDICATORS & TERMINALS
1
2
3
Power Input Terminal (B+) – To be connected to the positive terminal of
your vehicle battery or other constant +12V source
Ground Input Terminal (GND) – To be wired to the vehicle’s chassis
ground
1
2
3
4
5
Remote Turn-on Input Terminal (REMOTE) – To be connected to the
remote control wire or antenna lead of the source unit for remote
ON/ OFF
XM2 INPUT PANEL
4
5
6
7
8
9
Line Level Inputs – To be connected to the front channel RCA output
of the source unit
Speaker Level Inputs – To be connected to the front channel speaker
output of the source unit
6
7
8
Bass Drive™ Remote Sub Gain Control Port – Connection for optional
R S remote to control subwoofer output levels
XM2 OUTPUT PANEL
Subwoofer Line Outputs – To be connected to the dedicated
subwoofer amplifier left/ right inputs
High Pass Line Outputs – To be connected to the dedicated high fre-
quency amplifier left/ right inputs
High-Pass Frequency Selector – For selection of high-pass crossover
frequency between 40Hz and 400Hz, 18dB/ Octave
10 Subwoofer Frequency Selector – For selection of the low-pass crossover
frequency between 40Hz and 200Hz, 36dB/ Octave
11 High Pass Output Level Control – For adjusting the high pass output
signal level
12 Subwoofer Output Level Control – For adjusting the low pass output
signal level
9
11
12
13 Power Indicator – This indicator lights up when the internal switching
power supply is activated and the unit is operational
10
13
XM2 CONTROL PANEL
7
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
XM4: CONTROLS, INDICATORS & TERMINALS
1
Power Input Terminal (B+) – Connects to the positive terminal of your
vehicle battery or other constant +12V source
2
3
Ground Input Terminal (GND) – Wires to the vehicle’s chassis ground
Remote Turn-on Input Terminal (REM) – Connects to the remote
control wire or antenna lead of the source unit for remote ON/ OFF
1
2
3
4
5
6
XM4 INPUT PANEL
4
5
6
7
8
9
Front Line Level Inputs – Connects to the front channel RCA output
of the source unit
Rear Line Level Inputs – Connects to the rear channel RCA outputs
of the source unit
Subwoofer Line Level Inputs – Connects to the subwoofer channel
RCA outputs of the source unit
7
8
9
9
Bass Drive™ Remote Sub Gain Control Port – Connection for optional
R S remote to control subwoofer output levels
XM4 OUTPUT PANEL
Subwoofer Line Outputs – Connects to the dedicated subwoofer ampli-
fier left/ right inputs
High Pass Line Outputs – Connects the crossover’s front and rear high
pass outputs to the dedicated high frequency amplifier inputs
10 Parallel Input Switches – “IN”: Set each switch to the “IN” position
when the source unit does not supply rear or subwoofer channel out-
puts. “OUT”: If the source unit has independent front, rear and/ or
sub channel outputs, set each switch to the “OUT” position
11 High-Pass Frequency Selectors – For selection of high-pass crossover
frequency between 40Hz and 400Hz, 18dB/ Octave
12 Subwoofer Frequency Selector – For selection of the low-pass crossover
frequency between 40Hz and 200Hz, 36dB/ Octave
11
11
14
13 Sub Phase Control Switch – Positioning the switch to the “180”
position shifts the subwoofer output signals 180 degrees out of phase
relative to the front and rear output signals
10
10
14
16
14 High Pass Output Level Controls – Adjusts the high pass output signal
15 Sub Bass Boost EQ – Centered at 45Hz with 18dB of adjustment, this
feature will enhance the low frequency output of your audio system
17
12
13
15
16 Subwoofer Output Level Control – For adjusting the low pass output
signal level
17 Power Indicator – This indicator lights up when the internal switching
power supply is activated and the unit is operational
XM4 CONTROL PANEL
9
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
INSTALLATION
Note: Please check with your vehicle’s manual to see if special tools are
necessary for working on your particular vehicle.
FOR SAFETY, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY GROUND BEFORE INSTALLATION.
Check and make sure the vehicle’s main battery and/ or auxiliary battery, if
any, is/ are in good working condition and has sufficient capacity to run the
electrical components of the vehicle plus the complete audio system.
Caution: Please follow all the installation recommendations and instructions
in this manual. Installing and/ or using the XM series electronic crossovers
in methods other than those outlined herein may reduce the performance
capability of the crossovers. Any such installation or usage may render the
product warranty void.
The XM series crossovers are designed for use in 12 Volt NEGATIVE
GROUND electrical system ONLY. Installing the units in a vehicle with positive
ground electrical system could result in serious damage to the electronic
crossover, other audio components and/ or the vehicle’s electrical components.
If your vehicle happens to run on a positive ground electrical system, please
consult your Coustic dealer for specific instructions on installation.
PREPARATION
Before wiring and connecting the XM2 or XM4, please read the entire manual.
Mark down the accessories, tools required and important points as you go
through this manual. Have all the necessary accessories, hardware and tools
on hand. The following basic tools are required:
LOCATION
• Select a mounting location that is easily and conveniently accessible,
e.g. inside the trunk.
• Electric hand drill with assorted bits
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat head)
• Pliers
• To avoid damage to the unit, keep the crossovers away from any heat
source (such as the engine or any heat-generating ducts).
• Leave at least 6" clearance above the unit to allow easy adjustment.
• Wire cutters
MOUNTING
• Wire strippers
• Place the XM series crossover at the desired location and use it as
a template to determine the exact position of the mounting holes.
• Sharp knife
• Crimping tool
• Mark the mounting holes with a felt pen, and put the crossover aside.
• Electrical tape or heat shrink tube for professional finish
• Soldering Iron (propane torch type) with solder
• Nylon tie wraps
• If the mounting surface is carpeted, cut out small circles of the carpet
and padding around the four mounting holes to expose the metal
underneath.
• Use a center punch to ensure drilling the exact position for the screws.
Drill four (4) 1⁄8” pilot holes. DO NOT BEGIN DRILLING UNTIL YOU
HAVE PUT THE CROSSOVER ASIDE. USING THE CROSSOVER AS A
DRILLING GUIDE MAY CAUSE IRREPARABLE DAMAGE TO THE UNIT.
• Volt/ Ohm meter
• Mount the XM series crossover with the Phillips head sheet metal
screws and steel washers provided. (It is best not to tighten the screws
to the maximum at this stage, since you might want to change the
position at a later stage.)
11
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
13
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
See Page 21
XM4 Subwoofer
Phase Adjustment
15
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
See Page 21
XM4 Subwoofer
Phase Adjustment
17
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
WIRING
if using the rear outputs from the
source unit
Caution: Routing audio cables and power cables together would invariably
cause radiated engine noise in your audio system. If possible, run audio
cables on one side of your car and power cables on the other. Never route
these wires underneath the vehicle body.
• Connect the rear outputs of the
source unit to the rear inputs of
the crossover. Slide the parallel
input switch to the “OUT”
position.
• It is best to route all wires of the audio system along with the existing
electrical wires of the vehicle through this would call for the dismounting
of kick panels, door sills, etc. Where possible, the cleanest and safest
route is under the carpet or behind the side panels.
• If you need to dismantle any part of the vehicle during installation,
make notes of the dismantling process to ensure that you would be
able to reassemble those parts afterwards. All the hardware, for example,
screws, dismantled from the vehicle should be kept in a container to
make reassembly easier.
if using the subwoofer outputs from
the source unit
• Run the various wires accordingly while avoiding sharp edges and
door jams.
• Connect the subwoofer outputs of
the source unit to the sub inputs of
the crossover. Slide the parallel
input switch to the “OUT”
position.
• Grommets should be used to protect the wires when they are routed
through bare metal holes. For best protection, we recommend using
automotive flexible plastic tubing, and for ease of handling, use plastic
tie-wraps.
• All wires and cables should be “stress relieved” at various points on
both the input and output side of the crossovers. Cable clamps should
be used to reduce stress on the terminals.
Note: The battery ground should remain DISCONNECTED at all stages
of installation.
AUDIO OUTPUT AND POWER CONNECTIONS
• Connect the high pass and subwoofer outputs of the XM series
crossovers to the inputs of their respective amplifiers.
AUDIO INPUT CONNECTIONS
• Connect the crossovers’ B+ terminals to the positive terminal of the vehicle’s
battery. Cut the supplied fuse loop (so there are now two separate wires
that attach to each end of the fuse holder). Install the fuse holder 18" from
the battery on the power wire that runs through firewall or sheet metal to
protect the battery, the vehicle and more importantly, you.
• Connect the front outputs of the
source unit to the front inputs of
the crossover. If using the XM2’s
speaker level input connection,
use the appropriate speaker wires
from the source unit.
• Connect the GND terminal of the XM series crossover to the vehicle
chassis. For better conductivity, if necessary, scrape paint off of the
chassis to reveal bare metal at the contact point.
• If using the XM4 with source unit
that does not have additional rear
and sub line level outputs, slide
each parallel input switch to the
“IN” position and skip the next
two steps.
• Connect the REM terminal of the crossover to the remote output
terminal of the source unit to establish crossover remote power on/ off
via the source unit. If the source unit does not provide a remote output,
connect to its power antenna terminal.
• Double check all the previous installation steps. If everything is in
order, complete the installation by reconnecting the battery ground to
the vehicle chassis.
19
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
ADJUSTMENTS
2
CROSSOVER FREQUENCY ADJUSTMENT
• Set the volume of the source unit to approximately ⁄
output.
3
of its maximum
To avoid over-crowding the control panel, only four frequencies are shown
on each frequency selector. In reality you can choose any of the frequencies
between the lowest and the highest setting marked on the selectors.
• Starting from their respective preset levels, adjust one output level at
a time. With each of the level controls, turn the level up or down until
distortion develops, then retrace the path until distortion disappears.
• When setting the crossover frequencies, it is best to use source
materials with a lot of bass.
• Optimum output levels vary with the program source (radio, tape or
CD). If the optimum output levels for radio differ considerable from
those for tape/ CD, locate the median levels that are best for both
program sources. (Before making output level adjustment for radio,
first locate a FM station with strong radio signals.)
• Center the tone, balance and fader controls of the source unit
(leaving the other controls at their previous positions).
2
• Set the volume of the source unit to approximately ⁄
3
of its
maximum output.
• The optimum subwoofer output level changes from time to time,
depending on the volume of road noise, which in turn depends on
the vehicle speed, wind speed and road surface. With the XM series
Bass-Drive™ remote sub gain control port and the R S remote control,
the subwoofer output level can be adjusted as and when necessary
from the driver’s seat.
FRONT CHANNEL CROSSOVER FREQUENCY SETTING:
Adjust the fader of the source unit to increase the volume level of the front
speakers. Starting from the preset frequency, adjust the front channel frequency
downward or upward until you get your desired sound quality. Again, there
is no universal optimum setting. It depends on the size and location of the
front speakers.
XM4 SUBWOOFER PHASE ADJUSTMENT
• In a mobile audio system where the distance of the subwoofer to the
listener is different from the distance of the midrange/ tweeter to the
listener, an acoustical time delay might exist due to the different timing
these signals are received by the listener. The overall effect would be
either almost no bass or the bass seems to lag behind the highs
(commonly known as “out of phase”). If this is the case, experiment
with the phase inverter switch for a position that gives you more bass
output from the subwoofer.
XM4 REAR CHANNEL CROSSOVER FREQUENCY SETTING:
Adjust the fader of the source unit to increase the volume level of the rear
speaker. Just like setting the front channels, starting from their respective
preset frequencies, gradually adjust the rear channel frequencies downward
or upward until you get your desired sound quality.
SUBWOOFER CROSSOVER FREQUENCY SETTING
NOISE CHECK
Starting from the preset 200Hz, gradually adjust the subwoofer frequency
downward to 120Hz. If the bass is still “boomy” or soft sounding, adjust it
downward even further until the bass sounds tight and deep. The optimum
setting varies from vehicle to vehicle and from individual to individual.
Before mounting the XM series crossovers and the other audio components
permanently, please conduct the following noise check:
• Start the engine and turn on the power of the source unit.
• Rev the engine and vary the audio volume to check for radiated
engine noise. If there is an alternator whining noise or tic-tic noise,
refer to the TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE for assistance. If the problem
persists, consult your local Coustic dealer or Coustic directly.
OUTPUT LEVEL ADJUSTMENT
As in the case of crossover frequency adjustment, when making the output
level adjustment it is best to use compact discs or cassette tapes with greater
dynamic range.
• If no unwanted noise is detected, double check all the wiring and
cables for safe placement. Then securely tighten the mounting screws
of all the audio components.
• Center the tone, balance and fader controls of the source unit
(leaving the other controls at their previous positions).
21
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
SPECIFICATIONS
XM2 — 2-CHANNEL 2-WAY CROSSOVER
XM4 — 2-/ 4-/ 6-CHANNEL 2-WAY CROSSOVER
High Pass Crossover:
Low Pass Crossover:
Bass Drive:
18dB/ Oct 40Hz-400Hz
Dual High Pass Crossover:
Low Pass Crossover:
Bass Drive:
18dB/ Oct 40Hz-400Hz
36dB/ Oct Mono 40Hz-200Hz
36dB/ Oct Mono 40Hz-200Hz
0dB to 18dB
0dB to 18dB
Max Input/ Output:
Input current:
8Volts RMS
Bass Boost Eq:
0-18dB @ 45Hz
0˚/ 180˚
1 amp max.
Phase Switch:
Frequency response:
limit
20Hz – 20kHz ±1⁄4dB before crossover
Max Input/ Output:
Input current:
8Volts RMS
1 amp max.
Separation:
60dB
Frequency response:
limit
20Hz – 20kHz ±1⁄4dB before crossover
THD+N:
<0.1%
Signal to Noise:
Input Impedance:
Output Impedance:
Dimensions:
>90dB
Separation:
60dB
>10k Ohms
50 Ohms
THD+N:
<0.1%
Signal to Noise:
Input Impedance:
Output Impedance:
Dimensions:
>90dB
23⁄16” H x 81⁄2” W x 57⁄8” L
(55mm x 216mm x 149mm)
>10k Ohms
50 Ohms
23⁄16” H x 81⁄2” W x 67⁄8” L
(55mm x 216mm x 174mm)
Due to continual product development, all specifications
are subject to change without notice.
23
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
WARRANTY
SYMPTOM – No Power
LIMITED WARRANTY
Important Notice to Consumer: Coustic offers the following warranty to the
ORIGINAL PURCHASER of COUSTIC products within the period stated herein:
PROBABLE CAUSE – Check all the ground, B+ and remote terminals
for tight connection.
Coustic warrants the XM2, XM4 and XM6 against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of ONE (1) YEAR from date of original purchase.
The limited warranty is offered as an Over The Counter (OTC) exchange
providing that the product was purchased from an authorized Coustic dealer
a nd is a ccompa nied by va lid sa les receipt a t the time of excha nge.
Replacement units will be warranted for the remaining portion of the original
warranty period.
• Check all fuses.
• Use a Volt/ Ohm meter to check all power wire connections to see
if the system is receiving +12VDC.
SYMPTOM – “Motorboating”: The power indicator going off repeatedly
when the audio system is on.
IMPORTANT: THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER INSTALLATION OR
DAMAGE RESULTING FROM ACCIDENT, MISUSE, ABUSE, IMPROPER
WIRING, INCORRECT VOLTAGE, OPERATING UNIT AGAINST
INSTRUCTIONS IN OWNER’S MANUAL OR ANY PRODUCT WHICH
HAS BEEN OPENED, TAMPERED WITH OR SERIAL NUMBERS REMOVED.
PROBABLE CAUSE – Check if the crossover power wire is connected
directly to the battery.
• Check the battery voltage; if low, recharge or replace it.
• Check if the crossover has good ground connection (i.e. whether the
ground wire is making good contact with a bare metal spot of the
vehicle chassis).
This warranty does not cover labor costs for removal and/ or installation of
the unit for repair. Under no circumstances shall Coustic be liable for any
special, incidental or consequential damages or for any other expenses
incurred by reason of use or implied including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for particular use or otherwise.
SYMPTOM – When the engine is running, the audio system has a whining
noise that remains unchanged or disappears with the increase of audio volume.
This warranty gives the CONSUMER specific legal rights and he may also
have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not follow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, hence the
above exclusions and limitations may not apply.
PROBABLE CAUSE – Check all the power wires to see if they are all
connected directly to the battery.
For additional information, call us at 602-438-2020, or visit our website at
• Check all the ground connections to the entire system for good contact
with bare metal of the vehicle chassis. Check if the source unit and the
crossover are grounded at the same reference point.
SYMPTOM – Obvious distortion at low volume.
PROBABLE CAUSE – Output level of various channels not compatible,
refer to section titled OUTPUT LEVEL ADJUSTMENT.
25
WWW.COUSTIC.COM
NOTES:
27
|