MB Quart Reference RLP304 12-Inch Flat Woofer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the MB Quart Reference RLP304 12-Inch Flat Woofer. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your new subwoofer. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or use to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the MB Quart Reference RLP304 12-Inch Flat Woofer. This image displays the speaker cone and surround.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Improper installation or use of this product can result in serious injury or property damage. Always follow these safety guidelines:

• Disconnect the vehicle's battery before beginning any electrical work to prevent short circuits.
• Ensure all wiring is properly insulated and secured to prevent damage from vibration or abrasion.
• Do not mount the subwoofer in a location that obstructs the driver's view or interferes with vehicle operation.
• Use appropriate gauge wiring for power and speaker connections to handle the specified wattage.
• Avoid exposing the subwoofer to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.
• Consult a professional car audio installer if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process.

3. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• MB Quart Reference RLP304 12-Inch Flat Woofer
• Instruction Manual (this document)
• Mounting hardware (screws, gaskets - may vary by package)

Figure 3.1: The retail packaging for the MB Quart RLP304 subwoofer.

4. Setup and Installation

The MB Quart RLP304 is designed for shallow-mount applications, offering flexibility in installation locations.

4.1 Enclosure Requirements

This subwoofer performs optimally in a sealed enclosure. For a 12-inch subwoofer, a common recommendation is a sealed enclosure volume of approximately 0.75 to 1.25 cubic feet. Refer to the specifications section for detailed enclosure volume recommendations provided by MB Quart, which may also be printed on the product packaging or included documentation.

Figure 4.1: Side profile of the RLP304, highlighting its shallow mounting depth, which is less than 3 inches.

4.2 Mounting

• Ensure the mounting surface is rigid and free from obstructions.
• Cut a circular opening in your enclosure that matches the subwoofer's cutout diameter (refer to specifications).
• Secure the subwoofer using the provided mounting screws, ensuring an airtight seal with a gasket if supplied.

4.3 Wiring Connections

The RLP304 features dual voice coils (DVC) with a 4-ohm impedance per coil. This allows for flexible wiring configurations to match your amplifier's impedance requirements. The subwoofer is equipped with convenient push terminals for secure wire connections.

Figure 4.2: Angled rear view of the RLP304, showing the robust frame and the push-style speaker terminals for easy wiring.

Common Wiring Configurations for DVC 4-Ohm Subwoofers:

• Parallel Wiring (2 Ohms): Connect the positive terminals of both voice coils together, and the negative terminals of both voice coils together. Then connect these combined positive and negative terminals to your amplifier. This configuration presents a 2-ohm load to the amplifier.
• Series Wiring (8 Ohms): Connect the positive terminal of one voice coil to the negative terminal of the other voice coil. Then connect the remaining free positive and negative terminals to your amplifier. This configuration presents an 8-ohm load to the amplifier.

Always ensure your amplifier is stable at the chosen impedance. Refer to your amplifier's manual for compatible impedance loads.

Figure 4.3: Detailed rear view of the RLP304, showing the magnet structure, ventilation, and the DVC 4-Ohm specification printed on the magnet.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Break-in Period

Like all new speakers, your RLP304 subwoofer requires a break-in period. During the first 20-30 hours of use, operate the subwoofer at moderate volume levels. This allows the suspension components (surround and spider) to loosen up and reach their optimal compliance, improving overall sound quality and longevity. Avoid playing at maximum volume during this period.

5.2 Power Handling

The RLP304 is rated for 300 Watts RMS and 600 Watts Maxx power. Ensure your amplifier's output matches these specifications. Underpowering or overpowering the subwoofer can lead to damage. Set your amplifier's gain and crossover settings correctly to prevent distortion and protect the subwoofer. A low-pass filter is recommended to ensure only bass frequencies are sent to the subwoofer.

6. Maintenance

• Keep the subwoofer cone free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid touching the speaker cone or surround with excessive force.
• Regularly check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
• Ensure the enclosure remains sealed and free from air leaks, which can degrade performance.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty Information

MB Quart products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, including coverage period and claim procedures, please refer to the official MB Quart website or the warranty card included with your product packaging. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

10. Support

Should you require technical assistance, have questions regarding installation, or need to troubleshoot an issue not covered in this manual, please contact MB Quart customer support.

• Official Website: Visit the MB Quart Store on Amazon or the main MB Quart website for product information, FAQs, and support contact details.
• Customer Service: Refer to the contact information provided on the official website or product packaging.