1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Focal FPS 1500 Class D Symmetric Car Subwoofer Amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or operation to ensure proper use and to prevent damage to the unit or your vehicle's audio system. Retain this manual for future reference.
2. Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions during installation and operation:
- Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work.
- Ensure all wiring is properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
- Mount the amplifier securely in a dry, well-ventilated location, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
- Use appropriate wire gauges as specified in this manual to prevent overheating and ensure optimal performance.
- Do not operate the amplifier if it is damaged or malfunctioning. Seek professional assistance.
- Avoid exposing the amplifier to moisture or extreme temperatures.
3. Product Overview
The Focal FPS 1500 is a high-performance mono subwoofer amplifier designed to deliver powerful and precise bass. It features a Class D design for efficiency and includes various controls for fine-tuning your audio system.
Figure 1: Front view of the Focal FPS 1500 amplifier, showcasing its robust heatsink design and Focal branding.
Key Features:
- Mono subwoofer amplifier with 800 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm (CEA-2006 compliant).
- Class D amplifier design for high efficiency.
- Thermostat-controlled, progressive-speed cooling fan.
- Dynamic soft clipping protection for speakers.
- Variable low-pass filters (50-500 Hz, 12 dB/octave).
- Switchable subsonic filter (20 Hz, 24 dB/octave).
- Variable bass boost (0-9 dB at 45 Hz).
- Phase switch for optimal subwoofer integration.
- Preamp inputs and remote level control capability.
4. Connections and Controls
Familiarize yourself with the input and output terminals, as well as the control panel, before proceeding with installation.
Figure 2: Rear view of the Focal FPS 1500 amplifier, showing power terminals, RCA inputs, crossover controls, and speaker outputs.
Control Panel Functions:
- Power Terminals (GND, REM, +12V): Connections for ground, remote turn-on, and 12V power supply.
- Fuses (40A x 2): Integrated fuses for circuit protection.
- Inputs (RCA): Low-level audio signal inputs from your head unit or processor.
- Subsonic Filter Switch: Activates a 20 Hz, 24 dB/octave high-pass filter to protect subwoofers from ultra-low frequencies.
- X-OVER Switch: Selects between Low-Pass or Direct (full range) operation. For subwoofers, set to Low-Pass.
- Gain Control: Adjusts the input sensitivity to match the output of your head unit.
- Low-Pass Filter (50-500 Hz): Sets the upper frequency limit for the amplifier's output.
- Bass Boost (0-9 dB at 45 Hz): Provides an adjustable boost at 45 Hz for enhanced bass impact.
- Phase Switch (0/180 degrees): Adjusts the output phase to match other speakers in the system, improving bass integration.
- Remote Level Control Port: Connects to an optional wired remote for convenient bass level adjustment.
- Speaker Outputs: Terminals for connecting your subwoofer(s).
5. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your amplifier. If you are unsure about any steps, consult a professional installer.
5.1 Mounting the Amplifier
- Choose a mounting location that is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
- Ensure sufficient space around the amplifier for proper airflow, especially around the heatsink fins.
- Secure the amplifier firmly to a solid surface using appropriate screws and mounting hardware. Avoid mounting on carpet or other materials that could obstruct cooling.
5.2 Wiring Connections
Use high-quality wiring for all connections. 4-gauge power and ground leads are recommended for the FPS 1500.
- Power Wire (+12V): Run a 4-gauge power wire directly from the positive terminal of the vehicle's battery to the +12V terminal on the amplifier. Install an appropriate fuse holder (not supplied) within 18 inches (45 cm) of the battery.
- Ground Wire (GND): Connect a 4-gauge ground wire from the GND terminal on the amplifier to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a solid, low-resistance connection.
- Remote Turn-On Wire (REM): Connect a remote turn-on wire (typically 18-gauge) from the remote output of your head unit to the REM terminal on the amplifier. This wire turns the amplifier on and off with your head unit.
- RCA Input Cables: Connect high-quality RCA cables from the subwoofer pre-out of your head unit to the RCA input jacks on the amplifier.
- Speaker Wires: Connect your subwoofer(s) to the speaker output terminals on the amplifier. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). Refer to your subwoofer's specifications for impedance matching. The FPS 1500 is stable down to 1 ohm.
6. Operating Instructions
Once all connections are made and verified, you can power on your system and adjust the amplifier settings.
6.1 Initial Power-Up
- Reconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
- Turn on your head unit. The amplifier should power on, indicated by the power LED.
- Start with the amplifier's gain control set to minimum.
6.2 Adjusting Settings
- Gain Control: Play a familiar piece of music with a strong bass presence. Slowly increase the gain control on the amplifier until you hear distortion, then back it off slightly. This matches the amplifier's input sensitivity to your head unit's output.
- Low-Pass Filter: Set the low-pass filter frequency to blend smoothly with your main speakers. A common starting point is 80-100 Hz, but this may vary depending on your system.
- Subsonic Filter: If your subwoofer is ported or you are experiencing excessive cone excursion at very low frequencies, engage the subsonic filter (20 Hz). This protects the subwoofer from playing frequencies below its safe operating range.
- Bass Boost: Use the bass boost sparingly. Excessive bass boost can lead to distortion and potential damage. Adjust to your preference, ensuring the sound remains clean.
- Phase Switch: Experiment with the 0 and 180-degree phase settings. Choose the setting that provides the most impactful and coherent bass response from your listening position.
The FPS 1500 features Dynamic Soft Clipping, which helps protect your speakers from distortion by gently limiting the output when the amplifier is driven beyond its clean power capabilities.
7. Maintenance
The Focal FPS 1500 amplifier requires minimal maintenance.
- Keep the amplifier clean and free of dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Ensure the cooling fins are not obstructed to allow for proper heat dissipation.
- Periodically check all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the amplifier.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your amplifier, refer to the following table before contacting technical support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power / Amplifier does not turn on | Blown fuse Poor power/ground connection No remote turn-on signal | Check and replace fuses (40A x 2). Verify all power and ground connections are secure. Check remote wire connection and head unit remote output. |
| No Sound Output | RCA cables disconnected/damaged Speaker wires disconnected/shorted Gain set too low Head unit volume too low | Check RCA cable connections. Inspect speaker wiring for shorts or disconnections. Increase gain control. Increase head unit volume. |
| Distorted Sound | Gain set too high Bass boost set too high Speaker impedance mismatch Poor quality audio source | Reduce gain control. Reduce bass boost. Verify speaker impedance is within amplifier's specifications (1-4 ohms). Use a higher quality audio source. |
| Amplifier Overheating | Insufficient ventilation Improper impedance load Extended high-power operation | Ensure adequate airflow around the amplifier. Verify speaker impedance is correct. Reduce volume or allow amplifier to cool down. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Amplifier Type | Mono Subwoofer Amplifier, Class D |
| RMS Power Output (CEA-2006) | 320 watts x 1 at 4 ohms 550 watts x 1 at 2 ohms 800 watts x 1 at 1 ohm |
| Frequency Response | 10-2,500 Hz |
| Low-Pass Filter | Variable, 50-500 Hz, 12 dB/octave |
| Subsonic Filter | Switchable, 20 Hz, 24 dB/octave |
| Bass Boost | Variable, 0-9 dB at 45 Hz |
| Phase Switch | 0/180 degrees |
| Recommended Power/Ground Wire | 4-gauge |
| Fuse Rating | 40A x 2 |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 13-7/8" x 2-3/8" x 10-3/4" (approx. 35.2 x 6.0 x 27.3 cm) |
| Item Weight | 12.08 pounds (approx. 5.48 kg) |
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Focal website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
