1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Bazooka BTA8100 BT Series 8-Inch 100-Watt Amplified Tube Subwoofer. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to install or operate the unit to ensure proper function and safety.
The Bazooka BTA8100 is an all-in-one amplified subwoofer solution designed to enhance the bass response of your vehicle's audio system. It features a built-in 100-watt, 2-channel amplifier coupled with an 8-inch dual voice coil woofer within a patented Bass Tubes enclosure.
Image 1: Front view of the Bazooka BTA8100 Amplified Tube Subwoofer, showcasing its cylindrical design and speaker grille.
2. Product Features
- 8-inch woofer with treated foam surround.
- Integrated 100-watt maximum output amplifier.
- 85 Hz low-pass filter for optimized bass reproduction.
- Subsonic filter (12 dB/octave at 35 Hz) for improved amplifier efficiency.
- Patented tube enclosure design optimized for "Corner Loading" to maximize bass performance.
- Includes straps for secure mounting within the vehicle.
- Compact design suitable for various vehicle types, including trucks and hatchbacks.
Image 2: Detailed view of the 8-inch woofer cone, highlighting the treated foam surround for durability and sound quality.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Bazooka BTA8100 BT Series 8-Inch 100-Watt Amplified Tube Subwoofer
- Wiring harness
- Installation hardware
- Instruction manual (this document)
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. If you are unsure about any step, consult a professional installer.
4.1 Placement
The Bazooka Bass Tubes enclosure is designed for optimal performance when "corner loaded." This means placing the subwoofer in a corner of your vehicle, such as the rear corner of a trunk or hatchback, or behind the seat in a truck. This placement utilizes the vehicle's interior acoustics to amplify the bass output.
Image 3: Subwoofer positioned in a vehicle's corner for optimal bass amplification. The green outline indicates the recommended placement area.
4.2 Wiring Connections
The BTA8100 requires power, ground, and audio signal connections. Refer to the included wiring harness and your vehicle's audio system diagram for specific connections.
- Power: Connect the power wire directly to the vehicle's battery, ensuring an inline fuse is installed close to the battery.
- Ground: Connect the ground wire to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle chassis.
- Audio Signal: The BTA8100 can accept either speaker-level inputs (from your head unit's speaker outputs) or RCA line-level inputs (if your head unit has pre-amp outputs).
- Remote Turn-On: Connect the remote turn-on wire to a switched 12V source from your head unit (e.g., antenna or amplifier remote output).
Image 4: Rear panel of the Bazooka BTA8100, illustrating the various connection ports and control knobs for power, audio input, and settings.
For simplified installation, consider using Bazooka's F.A.S.T. harnesses (sold separately). These harnesses provide a plug-and-play solution for integrating the subwoofer with most factory or aftermarket head units, preserving your vehicle's wiring integrity.
4.3 Mounting
Use the provided straps to secure the subwoofer in its chosen location. This prevents movement during driving and ensures safety.
5. Operation
Once installed, the BTA8100 will automatically turn on when it receives a signal from your head unit (via remote turn-on or signal sensing, depending on wiring). Adjustments can be made to fine-tune the bass output.
5.1 Gain Control
The gain control adjusts the input sensitivity of the amplifier. Start with the gain set to minimum and slowly increase it until the bass output blends seamlessly with your main speakers without distortion. Avoid setting the gain too high, as this can lead to distorted sound and potential damage.
5.2 Low-Pass Filter (LPF)
The BTA8100 features an 85 Hz low-pass filter. This filter ensures that only low-frequency sounds are sent to the subwoofer, preventing it from playing higher frequencies that it is not designed for. This results in cleaner, more focused bass.
5.3 Subsonic Filter
A 12 dB/octave subsonic filter at 35 Hz helps protect the woofer by removing extremely low frequencies that are below its effective operating range. This improves amplifier efficiency and prevents mechanical damage to the woofer.
5.4 Optional Remote Bass Control
For convenient adjustment of bass levels from the driver's seat, consider installing Bazooka's RBCM-100 Remote Bass Control Module (sold separately).
6. Maintenance
The Bazooka BTA8100 is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance.
- Keep the enclosure clean by wiping it with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ensure all wiring connections remain secure. Periodically check for any loose connections.
- Avoid exposing the subwoofer to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures. The unit is not waterproof.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your BTA8100, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Sound:
- Check all power, ground, and remote turn-on connections. Ensure the inline fuse is intact.
- Verify that the audio input signal is present and correctly connected.
- Confirm the head unit is powered on and sending an audio signal.
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the gain control on the subwoofer.
- Check the head unit's volume and bass settings; ensure they are not excessively high.
- Inspect speaker wires for shorts or damage.
- Weak Bass:
- Increase the gain control gradually.
- Ensure the subwoofer is properly "corner loaded" for maximum effect.
- Check the phase setting on your head unit, if available.
- Subwoofer Not Turning On:
- Verify the remote turn-on wire is connected to a switched 12V source.
- Check the power and ground connections.
If problems persist after performing these checks, contact Bazooka customer support or a qualified car audio technician.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | BTA8100 |
| Speaker Type | Amplified Subwoofer |
| Subwoofer Diameter | 8 Inches |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 100 Watts |
| Frequency Response | 35 Hz (Subsonic Filter) |
| Low-Pass Filter | 85 Hz |
| Subsonic Filter | 12 dB/Octave at 35 Hz |
| Impedance | 2-Ohm |
| Sensitivity | 105 dB |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 18-3/8" x 8-9/16" x 9-7/8" |
| Item Weight | 15 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Strap Mount |
| Color | BLACK |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Image 5: Dimensional comparison of various Bazooka Bass Tube sizes. The BTA8100 corresponds to the 8-inch model shown, with approximate dimensions of 19" Length, 8.65" Width, and 10.125" Height.
9. Warranty and Support
The Bazooka BTA8100 comes with a one-year limited warranty. For warranty claims or technical support, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official Bazooka website.
For additional resources, you may refer to the official Bazooka store: Bazooka Store on Amazon.
