1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Sound Storm Laboratories EV4.400 4-Channel Class A/B Full Range Amplifier. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your amplifier. The EV4.400 is designed to deliver clear audio performance with 400 Watts Max Power and features fixed low and high pass crossovers.
Figure 1: Sound Storm Laboratories EV4.400 Amplifier (Top View)
This image shows the top view of the Sound Storm Laboratories EV4.400 amplifier, highlighting its sleek silver finish and the SSL Evolution branding.
2. Safety Information
Please read all instructions carefully before installing and operating your amplifier. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury or damage to the unit or vehicle.
- Professional Installation Recommended: For optimal performance and safety, professional installation of this product is strongly encouraged.
- Power Connections: Ensure all power connections are secure and properly fused to prevent electrical shorts and fire hazards.
- Ventilation: Install the amplifier in a location that allows for adequate air circulation to prevent overheating.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
3. Features
The Sound Storm Laboratories EV4.400 amplifier includes the following key features:
- Power Output: 100 Watts Max x 4 channels at 2 Ohms, 50 Watts Max x 4 channels at 4 Ohms.
- Class A/B Topology: Combines the sound quality of Class A with the efficiency of Class B amplifiers.
- Full Range Operation: Capable of powering both speakers and subwoofers.
- Low & High Level Inputs: Supports both RCA (low-level) and speaker wire (high-level) inputs for versatile connectivity.
- Fixed Low-Pass Crossover: Optimizes bass frequency reproduction for channels 3 and 4.
- Fixed High-Pass Crossover: Enhances high and mid-range frequencies for channels 1 and 2.
- Variable Input Gain Control: Allows adjustment of the signal level from your receiver to the amplifier.
- 2 Ohm Stable: Designed to operate safely with speaker loads down to 2 ohms.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your amplifier. Ensure the vehicle's battery is disconnected before beginning installation.
4.1 Mounting the Amplifier
- Choose a mounting location that is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from direct sunlight or excessive heat.
- Ensure sufficient space around the amplifier for air circulation.
- Securely fasten the amplifier to a solid surface using appropriate hardware.
4.2 Power and Speaker Wiring
Connect the power, ground, remote turn-on, and speaker wires as shown in the diagram below. Use appropriate gauge wiring for all connections.
Figure 2: Power and Speaker Wiring Diagram
This diagram illustrates the connections for power, ground, remote turn-on, and four speakers to the amplifier. Note the speaker impedance range of 2-8 Ohms.
- BATT+ (12V Power): Connect directly to the positive terminal of the vehicle's battery via an in-line fuse (15 Amp ATO Blade fuse recommended).
- REMOTE: Connect to the remote turn-on output of your head unit.
- GROUND: Connect to a clean, unpainted metal point on the vehicle's chassis.
- Speaker Connections: Connect speakers to the CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 terminals, observing polarity. Ensure speaker impedance is between 2 and 8 Ohms.
4.3 Input Signal Wiring
The EV4.400 supports both low-level (RCA) and high-level (speaker wire) inputs. Do not connect both high-level and low-level inputs simultaneously.
Low-Level Input Wiring (RCA)
Low-level (RCA) input wiring is preferred for best audio performance. Use high-quality RCA cables.
Figure 3: Low-Level (RCA) Input Wiring Diagram
This diagram shows how to connect the amplifier's RCA inputs to the audio outputs of a head unit or signal processor.
High-Level Input Wiring
High-level inputs should only be used when your head unit lacks RCA outputs. Connect the speaker outputs from the receiver to the high-level input connector of the amplifier. Observe polarity to avoid audio phase problems.
Figure 4: Amplifier Control Panel and High-Level Input
This image displays the control panel of the EV4.400 amplifier, including the high-level input connectors, gain controls, and crossover mode switches.
5. Operation
Once installed, adjust the amplifier settings for optimal audio performance.
- Input Gain Control (CH 1/2 Level, CH 3/4 Level): These controls adjust the input sensitivity of the amplifier to match the output level of your head unit. Start with the gain set to minimum and slowly increase it until the desired volume is achieved without distortion. This is not a volume control.
- Crossover Mode (CH 1/2 Crossover Mode, CH 3/4 Crossover Mode):
- FULL RANGE: Allows the full audio spectrum to pass through.
- HIGH PASS (CH 1/2): Filters out low frequencies, typically used for full-range speakers or tweeters. The EV4.400 has a fixed high-pass crossover at 200Hz for channels 1 and 2.
- LOW PASS (CH 3/4): Filters out high frequencies, typically used for subwoofers. The EV4.400 has a fixed low-pass crossover at 120Hz for channels 3 and 4.
6. Maintenance
The EV4.400 amplifier requires minimal maintenance.
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the amplifier's cooling fins are free from dust and obstructions to maintain proper heat dissipation.
- Fuse Replacement: If the amplifier does not power on, check the 15 Amp ATO blade fuse. Replace it only with a fuse of the same type and rating.
7. Troubleshooting
Refer to this section for common issues and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power / Amplifier Not Turning On |
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| No Sound Output |
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| Distorted Sound |
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| Engine Noise / Whining Sound |
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| Amplifier Overheating |
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8. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Sound Storm Laboratories EV4.400 amplifier.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | EV4.400 |
| RMS Power into 4 Ohms | 50W x 4 |
| Max Power into 2 Ohms | 100W x 4 |
| Minimum Speaker Impedance | 2 Ohms |
| THD @ RMS Output | 0.01% |
| Frequency Response | 12 Hz to 22 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 90 dB |
| Channel Separation | 60 dB |
| Crossover Low Pass (CH 3/4) | 120Hz fixed |
| Crossover High Pass (CH 1/2) | 200Hz fixed |
| Fuse Rating | 15 Amp ATO Blade x 1 |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 7.5" x 9" x 1.75" |
| Item Weight | 3.2 Pounds (1.45 kg) |
| Voltage | 16 Volts (Max) |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, RoHS, WEEE |
Figure 5: EV4.400 Specifications Overview
This image provides a comparative table of specifications for the EV2.200 and EV4.400 models, highlighting key performance metrics.
9. Warranty and Support
Sound Storm Laboratories is committed to product quality and customer satisfaction.
- Warranty: The Sound Storm Laboratories EV4.400 comes with a 6 Year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty for purchases made through Amazon.Com. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
- Customer Support: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Sound Storm Laboratories customer support. Refer to the official Sound Storm Laboratories website for current contact information.
