Polk Audio SWA500 500W Power Amplifier Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Polk Audio SWA500 Power Amplifier is engineered to provide dedicated power for Polk Audio CSW Series built-in subwoofers. This Class D digital amplifier delivers 500 watts into 4 ohms, ensuring robust and distortion-free bass performance. Its design prioritizes long-term reliability and efficient operation. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective installation, operation, and maintenance of your SWA500 amplifier.

2. Important Safety Instructions

Read these instructions thoroughly before operating the amplifier.
Keep these instructions for future reference.
Heed all warnings on the product and in this manual.
Follow all instructions for safe use and installation.
Do not use this apparatus near water or moisture.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

3. Setup and Connections

Before making any connections, ensure the amplifier is powered off and unplugged from the AC outlet. The SWA500 is designed to power up to two Polk Audio CSW Series subwoofers of the same model.

3.1. SPEX Circuit Card Installation

The SWA500 amplifier utilizes SPEX circuit cards to optimize its performance for specific CSW subwoofer models. Ensure the correct SPEX card for your subwoofer model is inserted into the designated slot on the rear panel of the amplifier. These cards provide custom frequency shaping for optimal bass response.

3.2. Rear Panel Connections

Rear view of Polk Audio SWA500 Power Amplifier showing input/output terminals, SPEX card slot, and power connection.

Figure 1: Rear panel of the SWA500 amplifier, illustrating various connection points including Line In, Line Out, Speaker Out, SPEX Card slot, Phase switch, Power mode switch, and AC Main input.

Line In (Filtered/Unfiltered): Connect your audio source (e.g., AV receiver's subwoofer output) to the appropriate Line In jacks using RCA cables. The "Filtered" input applies a low-pass filter, while "Unfiltered" bypasses it, useful if your source provides its own filtered signal.
Line Out: These RCA outputs can be used to pass the audio signal to another amplifier or device.
Speaker Out: Connect your Polk Audio CSW subwoofer(s) to these terminals using appropriate speaker wire. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). The SWA500 supports Class 2 wiring.
Phase Switch: Adjust this switch (0° or 180°) to optimize the subwoofer's phase with your main speakers for seamless sound integration.
Power Mode Switch: Select between "ON" (always on), "AUTO" (turns on when an audio signal is detected), or "STANDBY" (low power mode, awaiting signal).
AC Main: Connect the supplied power cord to this input and then to a suitable AC power outlet.

4. Operation

Once all connections are made and the amplifier is plugged in, you can begin operating your SWA500.

4.1. Front Panel Controls

Front view of Polk Audio SWA500 Power Amplifier showing power button, protection indicator, low pass filter knob, and volume knob.

Figure 2: Front panel of the SWA500 amplifier, featuring the Power button, Protection indicator, Low Pass Filter control, and Volume control.

Power Button: Press to turn the amplifier on or off. The power indicator light will illuminate when the unit is on.
Protection Indicator: This light illuminates if the amplifier enters protection mode due to overheating or an electrical fault. If this occurs, turn off the amplifier, check connections, and allow it to cool before restarting.
Low Pass Filter (80Hz - 120Hz): This knob adjusts the upper frequency limit of the subwoofer's output. Adjust this to blend the subwoofer's sound seamlessly with your main speakers. Start with a setting around 80Hz and adjust by ear.
Volume (Min - Max): This knob controls the overall output level of the subwoofer. Adjust to achieve the desired bass intensity relative to your main speakers.

4.2. Initial Sound Adjustment

Begin with the Low Pass Filter set to a mid-point (e.g., 100Hz) and the Volume knob at a low setting. Play a familiar piece of music or movie scene. Gradually increase the Volume until the bass is noticeable but not overpowering. Then, fine-tune the Low Pass Filter and Phase switch to achieve the most natural and integrated sound with your main speakers. The goal is for the subwoofer to enhance the low frequencies without drawing attention to its location.

5. Maintenance

Cleaning: Disconnect the power cord before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior surfaces of the amplifier. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol sprays.
Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings on the amplifier are not blocked. Proper airflow is crucial for preventing overheating and maintaining long-term reliability.
Storage: If storing the amplifier for an extended period, unplug it from the power outlet and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

6. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your SWA500 amplifier, consult the following troubleshooting guide:

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No power indicator light	Power cord not connected; AC outlet not active; Power switch off.	Ensure power cord is securely connected. Check AC outlet with another device. Press the front panel power button.
No sound from subwoofer	Incorrect input connection; Speaker wires loose or incorrect polarity; Volume too low; SPEX card missing or incorrect; Amplifier in standby/auto mode without signal.	Verify RCA input connections. Check speaker wire connections and polarity. Increase volume. Ensure correct SPEX card is installed. Set Power Mode switch to "ON" for testing.
Distorted or poor quality sound	Volume too high; Incorrect Low Pass Filter setting; Phase mismatch; Damaged speaker wire or subwoofer.	Reduce volume. Adjust Low Pass Filter. Toggle Phase switch (0°/180°). Inspect speaker wires and subwoofer for damage.
Protection indicator illuminated	Overheating; Short circuit in speaker wiring; Amplifier fault.	Turn off amplifier and allow to cool. Check speaker wiring for shorts. If problem persists, contact customer support.

7. Specifications

Model: SWA500
Power Output: 500 watts into 4 ohms
Amplifier Type: Class D Digital
Compatibility: Designed for Polk Audio CSW Series built-in subwoofers (requires specific SPEX circuit card)
Low Pass Filter: Adjustable (Front Panel)
Volume Control: Adjustable (Front Panel)
Phase Control: 0°/180° (Rear Panel)
Power Modes: ON, AUTO, STANDBY (Rear Panel)
Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches (approximate, as per provided data)
Item Weight: 12.25 pounds
Manufacturer: Polk Audio
Date First Available: April 18, 2005

8. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Polk Audio website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

If you require technical assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Polk Audio customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the official Polk Audio website or on your product packaging.

Polk Audio Official Website: www.polkaudio.com

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