Owner’s Manual
for 320QE, & 480QE
Four Channel Power Amplifiers
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Welcome
FEATURES
…to the Coustic world of power and clarity. These new Coustic QE Series 4-channel power
amplifiers deliver the cleanest music you’ve ever heard at any power level in the 12-volt environ-
ment.
Besides their sleek contoured design, the new 320/480QE power amplifiers offer the latest and
most sophisticated audio features. This booklet offers you a guided tour of all these exciting fea-
tures. For the best sonic reproduction, please follow the installation suggestions and recommen-
dations as closely as possible. The time you spend will prove to be worthwhile when you sit back
and enjoy the high fidelity music!
To further explore the potential of your Coustic amplifier, we recommend you match it with our
full-feature high performance AM/FM CD/cassette source units, dynamic full-range speakers or
subwoofers, state-of-the-art equalizers and electronic crossovers.
Whatever you need for your ultimate car audio system, look to Coustic - we have the fullest
range of car audio components to meet the most critical demands.
MULTI-FUNCTION / MULTI-CHANNEL CIRCUIT DESIGN
The 4-channel 320/480QE amplifier can be configured as a 4-, 3- or 2-channel amplifier with
built-in high-pass/low-pass filters. Each of the front and rear stereo amplifiers can be bridged to
provide maximum system design flexibility. With the filters switched off, this amplifier can be
configured as 2 separate quasi 3-channel amplifiers where each amplifier is capable of
simultaneous mono (subwoofer) and stereo (mid-range) operation.
BUILT-IN ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER WITH CONTINUOUSLY ADJUSTABLE CROSSOVER
FREQUENCIES
You have the choice of selecting full-range, high-pass only or low-pass only. These filters feature
18 dB per octave high-pass and low-pass. Furthermore, the crossover frequencies are
continuously variable for fine-tuning of your audio system.
OVER-CURRENT, SHORT CIRCUIT AND DC OFFSET PROTECTION
The sophisticated circuitry monitors abnormal conditions such as voltage spikes, oscillation, DC
offset or short circuit. When any of these undesirable conditions exceed their respective preset
limits, the circuit will shut down the audio system briefly and light up the protection indicator to
identify the problem for immediate attention. Once the problem is resolved, the amplifier will
resume operation automatically.
Coustic...a sound investment.
TRIPLE DARLINGTON HIGH CURRENT/HIGH VOLTAGE FULLY COMPLEMENTARY OUTPUT
STAGE
Complementary output stage audio circuitry has long been a hallmark of "exotic" home amplifier
design. Coustic is one of the very few car audio manufacturers to incorporate such elaborate
audio circuitry into its power amplifiers. Triple Darlington configuration ensures the audio
amplifier is always operating under optimum conditions.
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 permis-
sion of Mitek Corporation or Coustic.
Please take a moment to complete and mail in the Owners’ Registration Card. (The serial num-
ber of your amplifier is marked on the bottom of its metal chassis.) Please also record the serial
number of your amplifier in the space provided below and keep this manual for future reference.
LINE OUTPUTS
The full-range line outputs can be used to feed signals to another amplifier for your future
expansion or for setting up a more sophisticated system.
Serial Number: ________________________________________________________________
Date of Purchase: ______________________________________________________________
WIDE RANGE INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT
The input sensitivity level of the Coustic QE Series amplifiers can be easily varied from as low as
100 mV to as high as 5.0 volts by adjusting the control on the End Panel.
HIGH/LOW IMPEDANCE INPUT
If you are using a floating or common ground car stereo, these amplifiers are the best fit for your
system. They are compatible with floating or common ground car stereo speaker outputs even
without a floating ground adapter. If, in the future, you decide to change to a higher quality after
market source unit with RCA pre-amp outputs (like the Coustic CD527), this same amplifier is
there to give you improved frequency response and better sonic performance.
STABLE INTO 2-OHM LOADS
With the over-designed power supply section and a sophisticated power management circuitry,
these amplifiers can maintain their stability even in the highly reactive low impedance environment.
ADJUSTABLE BASS BOOST
This feature allows you to enhance the bass performance of your sound system. The control is
continuously variable with a maximum boost level of 18 dB.
BUILT-IN REMOTE SUBWOOFER LEVEL CONTROL PORT (not available on 320QE)
This amplifier has a built-in remote subwoofer level control input port. With the optional RS
remote control, the subwoofer output level can be adjusted to compensate for bass fluctuations
in a moving vehicle.
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11. REAR CHANNEL INPUT SENSITIVITY LEVEL CONTROL (SENS)
CONTROLS, INDICATORS, AND TERMINALS
The input sensitivity level can be varied from 5.0 volts to 100 mV depending on the output
voltage of the source unit (refer to sub-section titled INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT).
FRONT PANEL
5 12
1
7
2
8
9
12. REAR CHANNEL HIGH IMPEDANCE INPUT
To be connected to RCA pre-amp outputs from a source unit (i.e., radio, tape deck or
CD player). If there is only one input available, connect it to the front input so that signals
can automatically be directed to the rear channels.
FRONT
60
REAR
60
INPUTS
OUTPUT
FRONT
REAR
MODE
MODE
FREQ
FREQ
180
180
HPF OFF LPF
HPF OFF LPF
L
R
30
300
30
300
13. REMOTE SUBWOOFER LEVEL INPUT (not available on 320QE)
REMOTE
SENS
SENS
SPKR
LEVEL
BOOST
BOOST
To be connected to the optional RS remote subwoofer volume control.
MIN
MAX
0
MIN
MAX
+18
0
+18
REAR PANEL
4
3
10 13
11
6
16 17 15 14 18
19
Figure 1: Front Panel Terminals and Controls
1. FRONT CHANNEL FILTER MODE SELECT SWITCH (MODE)
BRIDGE
PWR / PRT
FUSE
"HPF":
"OFF":
"LPF":
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a mid/tweeter amplifier.
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a full-range amplifier.
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a subwoofer amplifier.
+
+
L
L
-
+
R
R
-
-
GRD REM
B+
FRONT
REAR
-
+
2. FRONT CHANNEL HIGH-PASS / LOW-PASS FREQUENCY SELECTOR KNOB (FREQ)
Select a high or low-pass crossover frequency between 30 to 300Hz.
BRIDGE
20
3. FRONT CHANNEL BASS BOOST CONTROL (BOOST)
Select a boost level between 0 dB and +18 dB to enhance the bass performance of your
sound system.
Figure 2: Rear Panel Terminals and Indicators
14. POWER AND PROTECT INDICATOR (PWR/PRT)
Green light indicates that the amplifier is "ON."
4. FRONT CHANNEL INPUT SENSITIVITY LEVEL CONTROL (SENS)
Red light indicates either a high current, short circuit or DC offset is detected at the speaker
outputs. The amplifier will revert to normal operation once the problem is rectified.
This indicator also lights up at a high operating temperature. Under this condition, the ampli-
fier will automatically shut down. As soon as the temperature falls to a safe level, the amplifi-
er will automatically resume operation.
The input sensitivity level can be varied from 5.0 volts to 100 mV depending on the output
voltage of the source unit (refer to sub-section titled INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT).
5. FRONT CHANNEL HIGH IMPEDANCE INPUT
To be connected to RCA pre-amp outputs from a source unit (i.e., radio, tape deck or CD player).
15. POWER INPUT TERMINAL (B+)
6. FRONT/REAR CHANNEL LOW IMPEDANCE INPUT
To be connected to the positive terminal of the vehicle’s battery or other constant +12 V source.
To be connected to speaker outputs from a source unit when pre-amp outputs are not available.
16. GROUND INPUT TERMINAL (GND)
7. LINE LEVEL OUTPUT
To be wired to the vehicle’s chassis for ground.
This output can be used to connect to another amplifier for system expansion.
Note: This line level output is full range.
17. REMOTE TURN-ON INPUT TERMINAL (REM)
To be connected to the remote control wire or power antenna lead of the source unit for
remote ON/OFF.
8. REAR CHANNEL FILTER MODE SELECT SWITCH (MODE)
"HPF":
"OFF":
"LPF":
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a mid/tweeter amplifier.
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a full-range amplifier.
Slide switch to this position if the amplifier is used as a subwoofer amplifier.
18. FUSE RECEPTACLE
19. FRONT CHANNEL LEFT/RIGHT SPEAKER OUTPUT TERMINAL
For connection to the front speaker system.
9. REAR CHANNEL HIGH-PASS / LOW-PASS FREQUENCY SELECTOR KNOB (FREQ)
Select high or low-pass crossover frequency between 30 to 300Hz.
20. REAR CHANNEL LEFT/RIGHT SPEAKER OUTPUT TERMINAL
For connection to the rear speaker system.
10. REAR CHANNEL BASS BOOST CONTROL (BOOST)
Select a boost level between 0 dB and +18 dB to enhance the bass performance of your
sound system.
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SPEAKER IMPEDANCE
SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
Although extremely low impedance speaker loads will not damage the amplifier, for stereo mode,
we recommend speaker loads of 2, 4 or 8 ohms; for bridged mono mode, 4 or 8 ohms.
(Note: In bridged mono mode, the amplifier sees only half of the speaker impedance).
NOTE: Remember that we are not defying the laws of Physics! IF you decide to connect ANY
Coustic amplifier into a bridged mono load BELOW 4 ohms, Physics dictates that current draw
doubles! This is not too big a problem with the 320QE. But with the 480QE this is
DANGEROUS. The current draw could be as great as 150 amps (peak). Make sure you wire
your system properly.
By purchasing the 4-channel 320/480QE amplifier, you are already one step closer to experienc-
ing the purest and most natural sound quality in the automobile environment. To take full
advantage of the potential of this amplifier, before installation, we strongly recommend that you
acquaint yourself with all its available features and then spend some time in designing a system
most suitable for you. Take into consideration the components you have now and those that you
plan on adding or upgrading in the future.
BUILT-IN ASYMMETRICAL ELECTRONIC CROSSOVERS
POWER CABLES
An electronic crossover has many advantages over passive crossovers - lower cost, simplified,
yet more flexible system design, lower distortion and higher gain structure. The 320/480QE
power amplifiers are equipped with built-in 18 dB per octave continuously adjustable electronic
crossovers. The front and rear channels can be configured separately for full-range, high-pass
or low-pass applications.
Power cables are as important as battery capacity. Use only high quality power cables of gauge
size AWG 8 (AWG 4 for the 480QE) or bigger for installation.
YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO BIG OF A POWER/GROUND WIRE!
CIRCUIT BREAKER/FUSES
The line output is designed to provide additional expansion capability to your sound system.
It is also advisable to install a circuit breaker/fuse close to the battery. This would effectively
lower the risk of the power cable catching fire should a short circuit occur in the audio system.
A circuit breaker or fuse with 50% the rating of the main batteries amp hour rating is recommend-
ed. Going larger in circuit breaker or fuse value means that you have NO protection. DO NOT
over fuse! Fuses on the amplifier DO NOT protect the amplifier, they protect the car.
BI-AMPLIFICATION
A bi-amplified system normally consists of an active crossover and two amplifiers. The active
crossover divides the audio frequency spectrum into two ranges: frequencies below the
crossover point are directed to the amplifier driving the subwoofer(s), while all frequencies above
the crossover point are directed to the amplifier driving the mid-range/tweeters.
Because of the versatility of the Coustic 4-channel amplifier - the capability of being a 4-, 3- or
2-channel amplifier - you are quite free to build whatever mobile audio system you want or to
plan a long term expansion scheme for your car’s audio system.
For example, with the low impedance input, you can use the 320/480QE as a 4-channel amplifier
to upgrade your existing factory sound system to drive the stock front and rear speakers.
Or you can bi-amp your system using the front amplifier to drive a pair of high-passed
mid/tweeter speakers while using the rear amplifier to drive a pair of woofers/subwoofers
You can also configure the 320/480QE as front and rear high-passed mid/tweeter amplifiers and
use the output for connection to another subwoofer amplifier.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS & ACCESSORIES
Quality equipment, and proper system design and installation are the ingredients for the ultimate
car audio system. With your wise decision to purchase this Coustic amplifier, you are already
one big step closer to realizing your dream. The next step is simple - have an experienced
professional Coustic dealer install your audio system. However, if you prefer to install the system
yourself, we have the following recommendations for your reference:
Caution: Improper installation will void the product warranty and Coustic is not responsible for
any consequential damage to the amplifier and/or other audio components and/or electrical
components of the vehicle.
If you need more power, you can use the amplifier as a 2-channel subwoofer amplifier to drive
a pair of subwoofers. The full-range line output can be used to drive an additional amplifier
driving the rear full-range speaker.
TERMINALS, LUGS AND CONNECTORS
High current terminals, lugs and/or connectors are also required to ensure a safe and sure
electrical connection and conduction.
3 CHANNEL CONFIGURATION
When the mode switches are set at the OFF position, the amplifier can be configured as two
separate amplifiers. Each amplifier can be configured as either a 1-channel, bridged, mono
amplifier driving a single speaker, a 2-channel, stereo amplifier driving a pair of speakers, or with
the addition of passive crossovers, a quasi 3-channel amplifier driving a pair of left- and
right-channel, full-range mid-tweeters and a mono woofer simultaneously. Care must be taken to
choose capacitors and inductors of correct value; otherwise damage could be done to the
speakers and/or the amplifier.
NEGATIVE GROUNDING SYSTEM
The 320/480QE power amplifiers are designed for use with a 12-Volt negative ground system.
Installing this amplifier in a vehicle with a POSITIVE ground system will result in severe
damage to the amplifier, other audio components and/or the vehicle’s electrical components.
If your vehicle happens to run on a positive ground system, please consult your Coustic dealer.
WARNING: The 320/480QE power amplifiers are very powerful. We strongly recommend
For the approximate passive crossover components’ value, please refer to Coustic’s website,
installation in the following manner:
(1)
(2)
by professional mobile audio installers; and
incorporating all of the above special precautions and accessories.
MULTI-FUNCTION PROTECTION INDICATOR
When the red protect indicator lights up it signifies a high operating temperature is detected and
the amplifier is temporarily shut down to allow for a cooling period. As soon as the temperature
returns to a safe level, the amplifier will restart and resume normal operation.
This indicator also lights up when the amplifier detects either an over-current situation, shorted
speaker outputs or a DC offset at the outputs. Turn off the amplifier, double-check all inputs and
speaker connections to make sure there is no short or inappropriate inputs. If all connections are
in order, turn on the amplifier to resume operation.
Failure to comply with either one or both of the above conditions will render the warranty void
and Coustic is not responsible for any consequential damage to the amplifier, other audio
components and/or electrical components of the vehicle.
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WIRING LAYOUT
INSTALLATION
Once the location of all the components has been determined, plan the best routes for all the
necessary wiring, making sure that the wires are easily accessible without dismounting the vari-
ous components.
Caution: Please follow all the installation recommendations and instructions in this manual.
Installing and/or using the amplifier in methods other than those outlined herein may reduce
the performance capability of the amplifier. Any such installation or usage renders the product
warranty void.
MOUNTING
1. Place the amplifier at the desired location and use it as a template to determine the exact
position of the mounting holes.
2. Mark the mounting holes with a felt pen.
3. Put the amplifier aside.
4. 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.
5. Use a center punch to ensure drilling the exact position for the screws. DO NOT BEGIN
DRILLING UNTIL YOU HAVE PUT THE AMPLIFIER ASIDE. USING THE AMPLIFIER AS A
DRILLING GUIDE MAY CAUSE IRREPARABLE DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER.
6. Mount the amplifier with the screws provided.
LOCATION
Ventilation: The primary deciding factor of amplifier location is heat dissipation. Despite its highly
efficient heat dissipation design, the amplifier can be crippled by inadequate ventilation.
Prolonged operation at high volumes, combined with inadequate ventilation, may cause the
amplifier to overheat and trigger the automatic shut down circuit until the temperature returns to a
safe level. To ensure adequate ventilation, the ideal location for the amplifier is a spot away from
any heat source, with at least 2 inches of clearance above and around the unit.
WIRING
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.
Note: The battery ground should remain DISCONNECTED at all stages of installation.
CONNECTION
Figure 3: Upright Mount on Horizontal Surface
Figure 4: Parallel Mount on Vertical Surface
Connect the front and rear RCA input jacks of the Amplifier to the outputs of the Source Unit (e.g.
radio, cassette player or CD player). If line level output is not available, connect the speaker out-
puts of the source unit to the Loz input of the amplifier.
The amplifier may be mounted upright on a horizontal surface (see Figure 3) or parallel to a
vertical surface (see Figure 4). However, the amplifier should never be mounted upside down
(see Figure 5) for the simple reason that the hot air generated by the amplifier would have to go
through the unit internally on its natural upward path (i.e. "feedback" into the unit) and would result
in increased internal temperature. This would speed up the thermal shut down of the amplifier.
GROUND (black)
LEFT REAR(yel/blk) -
LEFT REAR(yellow) +
LEFT FRONT(wht/blk) -
FRONT
INPUTS
FRONT REAR
OUTPUT
LEFT FRONT(white) +
MODE
60
180
HPF OFF LPF
L
R
30
300
SENS
SPKR
LEVEL
MIN
MAX
0
+
RIGHT FRONT(blu/blk) -
RIGHT FRONT(blue) +
Figure 5: Inverted Mount (Not Recommended)
RIGHT REAR(grn/blk) -
RIGHT REAR(green) +
Vibration: Constant vibration could eventually cause the amplifier to come off its mount, resulting
in stress on wire connections, which, in turn, results in an "open" or "short" circuit. For this rea-
son, a location with minimum vibration and a flat surface for secure and firm mounting should be
chosen for the amplifier.
Figure 6: High/Low Impedance Inputs
Note: Connect the black ground wire to the source unit ground only if alternator noise is present.
Moisture: The amplifier should also not be exposed to moisture and water.
Taking all the above into consideration, the best mounting position for the amplifier would be the
floor of the trunk or behind the rear seat back.
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Connect the Amplifier to the Speakers. Use thicker speaker wires (e.g. 8 - 10 gauge desirable)
for these connections.
Connect the Amplifier to the Battery
Heavy gauge wire is preferred. Add a fuse or circuit breaker to any power wire that runs through
a firewall or sheet metal to protect the battery, the vehicle, and more importantly, you. It is highly
recommended that installation is carried out by an authorized Coustic dealer.
For Stereo Mode
1. Connect the front left negative ("–") speaker output of the amplifier to the negative terminal
of the left speaker.
Connect the Amplifier Remote Control
2. Connect the front left positive ("+") speaker output of the amplifier to the positive terminal
of the left speaker.
3. Connect the front right ("–") speaker output of the amplifier to the negative terminal of
the right speaker.
Connect the remote input terminal of the amplifier to the remote output terminal of the source unit
to establish amplifier remote on/off through the power on/off of the source unit. If the source unit
does not provide a remote output, connect to its power antenna lead or other switched 12-volt
source, e.g. ignition switch.
4. Connect the front right ("+") speaker output of the amplifier to the positive terminal of the
right speaker.
Connect the Amplifier Ground to Vehicle Chassis
5. Repeat the same for the rear channel speaker connections.
Find a good ground spot in the vehicle and connect the ground terminal of the amplifier to this
point via a large gauge ground cable.
Reconnect the Battery Ground to the Vehicle Chassis
Double check all the previous installation steps, in particular, the wiring and component connec-
tion. If everything is in order, complete the installation by reconnecting the battery ground to the
vehicle chassis.
BRIDGE
+
+
L
L
-
+
R
R
-
-
FRONT
REAR
Optional RS Remote Subwoofer Level Control (not available on 320QE)
If the optional remote subwoofer level control (model RS) is used, connect the plug of the RS to
the port on the end panel of the amplifier.
-
+
BRIDGE
Figure 7: Stereo Connection
For Bridged (Mono) Mode
1. Connect the front left positive ("+") speaker output of the amplifier to the positive input
terminal of the speaker.
NPUTS
T
FRONT
60
REAR
60
REAR
MODE
MODE
FREQ
FREQ
180
180
HPF OFF LPF
HPF OFF LPF
2. Connect the front right negative ("–") speaker output of the amplifier to the negative input
terminal of the speaker.
30
30
300
300
REMOTE
SENS
SENS
BOOST
BOOST
3. Repeat the same for the rear channel.
MIN
MAX
MIN
MAX
0
+18
0
+18
4. Make sure that ALL RCAs (front and rear left/right) are plugged in, other wise bass
response and output will suffer.
BRIDGE
L
L
-
+
R
R
FRONT
REAR
Figure 9: Remote Subwoofer Level Control (480QE only)
-
+
BRIDGE
Figure 8: Bridged Single Woofer Connection
CAUTION: ANY DEVIATION FROM THE ABOVE SPEAKER CONNECTION MAY CAUSE
SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER AND/OR SPEAKERS. PLEASE DOUBLE CHECK
THE CONNECTION BEFORE TURNING THE SYSTEM ON.
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CROSSOVER SELECTION
FINAL SYSTEM CHECK
The amplifier has built-in high-pass/low-pass filters for both front and rear channels that can be
defeated by sliding the switch to the OFF position.
INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT
The Input Sensitivity Control is located on the Front Panel. The objective of input sensitivity
adjustment is to match the output of the source unit with the input of the amplifier. The output
voltage of individual source units can vary. For example, some radios have an output of 200 mV
and others have 5 Volts or more. To cater to these variations, the QE amplifier has an adjustable
input sensitivity level that ranges from 100 mV to 5 volts.
1. When the high-pass is selected, the amplifier will be devoted to mid/tweeters.
2. When the low-pass is selected, the amplifier will be used to drive woofers/subwoofers.
With this setting, the optional RS can directly control the amplifier playback level.
3. When the filter is switched off, the amplifier is used as a full range amplifier.
Adjusting this control requires some experimenting. Basically, you want all the gain at the begin-
ning of the system, NOT at the end (amplifier). Turn your headunit UP and keep your amplifier
gains at the minimum possible setting (counter-clockwise). This will give you the best sound and
lowest signal to noise ratio.
CROSSOVER FREQUENCY SELECTION
Both the high-pass and the low-pass section offer continuously adjustable crossover frequencies
between 30 and 300 Hz. Adjust the setting according to your speaker component specification or
to your particular preference.
Besides better sonic reproduction, proper input sensitivity also helps to prolong the reliability
span of your amplifier by eliminating excessive internal temperature generated by incompatible
source unit output and amplifier input.
BASS BOOST CONTROL (BOOST)
Select a boost level between 0 dB and +18 dB to enhance the bass performance for your sound
system. BASS BOOST is NOT free! Every 3dB of boost costs you twice as much in power.
Make sure to set the final gains… after setting the Bass Boost to work best with your
subwoofer/enclosure combination. More is NOT always better!
Note : Turning the input gain UP does NOT indicate MORE power. Just MORE noise. The input
gain control IS NOT a power control. REMEMBER that the input gain control has nothing to do
with the power output of the amplifier
Front:High-Pass
Frequency adjustment
Rear:Low-Pass
Frequency adjustment
Rear:Low-Pass Selected
Front:High-Pass Selected
FRONT
60
REAR
60
FRONT
60
REAR
60
UTS
REAR
R
MODE
MODE
FREQ
FREQ
MODE
MODE
FREQ
FREQ
180
180
HPF OFF LPF
HPF OFF LPF
180
300
180
HPF OFF LPF
HPF OFF LPF
30
30
300
300
30
30
300
REMOTE
SENS
SENS
BOOST
BOOST
SUB LEVEL
SENS
SENS
BOOST
BOOST
MIN
MAX
MIN
MAX
0
0
+18
+18
5 volts
.1 volt
5 volts
.1 volt
Figure 11: Crossover Frequency Adjustment
SETTING UP 480QE USING RS (Remote subwoofer control)
Figure 10: Input Sensitivity Control
If you are using the RS control, make sure to take this into account during set-up procedures of
the subwoofer amplifier. You should set the system up with the RS plugged in, and with the level
knob turned all the way down (counter-clockwise).
1. Turn the Input Sensitivity Control all the way down (counter clockwise).
2. Set the volume control of the source unit to approximately 2/3 of its maximum output.
3. Turn the balance control of the source unit to its center position.
4. Leave the tone (bass/treble) controls at their usual position.
NOTE: the RS ONLY works in the "rear channel", and ONLY when you’ve selected the LPF (low-
pass) crossover configuration.
5. Play a CD or tape track with great dynamic range.
6. Use the Bass Boost Control to enhance the bass performance (if desired).
7. To locate the optimum input sensitivity setting, ask the person assisting you to turn the Input
Sensitivity Control clockwise until audio distortion starts to develop. Turn the sensitivity
control backwards slightly to minimize the distortion.
8. If you constantly switch between CD/tape and radio, you will need further adjustment since
radio output level differs from that of CD or tape. In this case, you need to locate a
balanced sensitivity setting which is best for both the output level of radio and that of
CD or tape.
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A
B
CD-328
A
B
CD-328
CD Changer Control
Figure 12: Typical Full Range System
A
B
CD-328
CD Changer Control
Figure 14: Typical High/Low pass System with two (2) amplifiers
Figure 13: Typical High/Low pass System with one amplifier
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TROUBLE-SHOOTING SECTION
SYMPTOM
PROBABLE CAUSE
SYMPTOM
No power
PROBABLE CAUSE
8. Whining noise when
engine is running with noise
varying with the accelerator
(noise level varies with
source unit volume.control).
Reroute power cable from the battery to the source unit
directly, bypassing the battery terminal in the fuse box.
Check power connections to be sure they are clean.
Check ground connections to be sure the ground wire is in
direct contact with the bare metal surface of chassis (with that
spot scraped clean of any paint).
1
Check connections to the amplifier's Ground, B+ & Remote
terminals. Check connection at "+" terminal of the battery.
Check the remote turn-on terminal. Ensure it receives power
when the source is turned on (or when the switch is turned
on). Refer to the Installation Section. Check the power line
fuse: if fuse is blown, replace it; if fuse continues to blow,
check the power wire and also the amplifier for a short. If the
short is in the power wire, fix it; if the short is in the amplifier
itself, see your Coustic dealer.
Check the voltage at the amplifier, and the remote ON/OFF
lead. The voltage should measure between 11 V-15V. If the
measurement is beyond this range, have the source unit
checked out by an authorized dealer.
9. Constant level whining noise Check for a ground loop in the system. Turn the system off
(most noise with source unit
volume at minimum)
and one by one change the ground connections
(by changing to a different contact point, scraping the level
constant irrespective of metal clean of any paint, rust or
grease). Turn the system on and check for whining noise after
each ground change.
CAUTION:
Do not disconnect the Power Amplifier's ground when
the system is on. This could damage the amplifier.
2. Power without sound with
red power/protection
indicator on
Turn the amplifier off, and Check all input & output signal
cables and connections. Check the speakers for a short with
a VOM or by connecting them to another audio system. After
making sure everything is normal, turn the amplifier on again.
Check for defective signal cables. Disconnect signal cables
at the amplifier and listen carefully for noise. If the noise dis-
appears, run a test pair of signal cables. If there is no unde-
sirable whining noise, reconnect to the amplifier with the new
pair of signal cables. Check the battery ground connection to
the vehicle chassis to make sure it is tight and clean.
Check the battery negative terminal connection to make sure
it is tight and clean.
3. Power without sound with
red power indicator on
The continuous red light of the power indicator signals a high
internal operating temperature which results in the amplifier
switching off temporarily; when the amplifier cools down to a
safe level, the amp will automatically restart.
4. No sound from one side
Check balance control.
Check speaker connections.
Check signal input connection.
10. Radiated noise: crackling
noise on FM which is not
present when playing tape
or CD (noise varying slightly
with accelerator, but is
Check if the noise is actually radiated noise: Tune a portable
radio to the same FM station. Move the portable radio close
to the vehicle engine. If the crackling noise comes from the
portable radio, then the noise you have in your vehicle audio
system is radiated noise.
5. Very low sound from
both radio & tape
Check your radio's fader control.
Check the amplifier's Input Sensitivity Level.
present at all times)
Check with a VOM to make sure the antenna is really ground-
ed to the vehicle chassis.
6. Frequent automatic amplifier This indicates that the amplifier is operating at a continually
shut down
undesirable high internal temperature.
To ensure a true ground, break the plastic covering of the
antenna lead and solder a piece of heavy wire (minimum 14-
gauge) to the braided shield.
High operating temperature caused by inadequate ventilation.
(Refer to the sub-section titled LOCATION for a better amplifi-
er location.)
Ground the other end of the wire at the same point as the
radio ground.
Check spark plug wires. They should be suppression-type
wire and less than 2 years old. Otherwise, replace them with
good quality suppression cables.
Make sure the engine block is grounded to the vehicle chas-
sis at a bare metal spot (scraped clean of paint, rust and
grease).
High operating temperature can be caused by an excessively
low impedance load, say below 2 ohms. Check for bad
speakers and/or electronic crossover, proper passive
crossover components; if all else fails, try rewiring the entire
system. A high operating temperature can be caused by an
incorrect input sensitivity level (refer to sub-section titled
INPUT SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENTS for correct setting).
7. "Motorboating": The amplifier Check the amplifier's connection to the battery.
Make sure hood is also grounded. If not, use a ground strap
(which is available from any auto parts store) to ground the
hood to the vehicle chassis.
power indicator going off
repeatedly when the audio
system is on.
Check battery voltage. If low, recharge or replace battery.
Check all ground connections.
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Limited Warranty
Important Notice to Consumer:
Coustic offers the following warranty to the ORIGINAL PURCHASER of COUSTIC
products within the period stated herein:
SPECIFICATIONS:
320QE
480QE
Rated Power @ 14.4 V (0.1 % THD) :
4 Ohm Stereo
4 x 40 Watts
4 x 60 Watts
Coustic warrants all new products against defects in material and workmanship for
a period of ONE (1) YEAR from date of original purchase. The limited warranty is
EXTENDED to TWO (2) YEARS from date of original purchase if the product is
originally installed by an authorized Coustic dealer and is accompanied by a valid
sales receipt showing a charge for installation.
Rated Power @ 14.4 V (0.1 % THD) :
2 Ohm Stereo
4 x 80 Watts
2 x 160 Watts
4 x 120 Watts
2 x 240 Watts
Rated Power @ 14.4 V (0.2 % THD) :
4 Ohm Mono
Should a defect occur, Coustic will repair or, at its option, replace defective
units/parts with new or factory rebuilt materials without charge for either parts or
labor to the original purchaser. Replacement units/parts will be warranted for the
remaining portion of the original warranty period.
Frequency Response :
Input Sensitivity:
20 –20,000 Hz +/- 0.5 dB 20 –20,000 Hz +/- 0.5 dB
0.1 – 5 V
100 dB
0.1 – 5 V
100 dB
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.
S/N Ratio @ rated power :
High-Pass Filter Crossover Frequency : 30 - 300 Hz
(Continuously Variable, @18 dB/Oct.)
30 - 300 Hz
Low-Pass Filter Crossover Frequency : 30 - 300 Hz
(Continuously Variable, @ 18 dB/Oct.)
30 - 300 Hz
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 sale of this product. This warranty is in lieu of any other warranties
expressed or implied including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness
for particular use or otherwise.
Bass Boost Level :
Dimensions:
0 – 18 dB @ 45 Hz
0 – 18 dB @ 45 Hz
11" W (280 mm)
2 3/8" H (60 mm)
13 3/16" L (335 mm)
11" W (280 mm)
2 3/8" H (60 mm)
14 3/8 (365 mm)
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.
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