Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Pyramid PB2518 3,000-Watt 2-Channel Bridgeable Mosfet Amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and operation to ensure proper use and to maximize the performance of your amplifier.
Figure 1: Top view of the Pyramid PB2518 amplifier, showcasing its heatsink design and branding.
Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the amplifier and connected components:
- Ensure the vehicle's battery is disconnected before making any power connections to the amplifier.
- Install the amplifier in a dry, well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Use appropriate gauge wiring for power, ground, and speaker connections as specified in the installation section.
- Do not operate the amplifier if it has been exposed to moisture or shows signs of damage.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
Product Features
The Pyramid PB2518 amplifier incorporates several advanced features for optimal audio performance:
- Two-channel amplification with soft turn on/off circuitry.
- Remote turn-on capability for integration with head units.
- Power and Protection LED indicators for operational status.
- Maximum output of 1500 Watts per channel (2 channels) or 3000 Watts when bridged into 4 Ohms.
- 2 Ohm stereo stable operation.
- Heavy-duty aluminum alloy heatsink for efficient heat dissipation.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N): >95dB.
- Frequency Response: 15Hz-30KHz.
- Fully adjustable electronic crossovers (High Pass and Low Pass).
- Mosfet Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) power supplies.
- High and Low level inputs for versatile connectivity.
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.04%.
- Variable Bass Boost (0-12dB at 50Hz).
- Variable Gain Control.
- High-level Molex input.
- Fully protected circuitry against overload, short circuit, and thermal issues.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your amplifier. Follow these steps carefully.
1. Mounting Location
Choose a mounting location that is dry, well-ventilated, and secure. Ensure adequate airflow around the amplifier's heatsink. Avoid mounting in direct sunlight or near heat-generating components.
2. Power Connections
Before making any connections, disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal. Connect the power, ground, and remote turn-on wires as follows:
- +12V (Power): Connect a fused power cable directly from the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle's battery to the +12V terminal on the amplifier. The fuse should be located within 18 inches of the battery.
- GND (Ground): Connect a ground cable of the same gauge as the power cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface of the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a solid electrical connection.
- REM (Remote Turn-On): Connect a remote turn-on wire from your head unit's remote output to the REM terminal on the amplifier. This wire signals the amplifier to turn on and off with your head unit.
Figure 2: Rear view of the Pyramid PB2518 amplifier, highlighting the power (GND, REM, +12V) and speaker output terminals.
3. Audio Input Connections
The PB2518 supports both High-Level and Low-Level (RCA) inputs.
- Low-Level Input (RCA): For head units with RCA pre-outs, connect RCA cables from the head unit's audio output to the "INPUT" RCA jacks on the amplifier.
- High-Level Input (Molex): If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, use the supplied high-level input adapter. Connect the speaker wires from your head unit to the adapter, then plug the adapter into the "HIGH LEVEL" input on the amplifier.
4. Speaker Connections
Connect your speakers to the "SPEAKER" terminals on the amplifier. Observe correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). The amplifier is 2 Ohm stereo stable and can be bridged for mono operation.
- Stereo Mode: Connect one speaker to the Right (+) and Right (-) terminals, and another speaker to the Left (+) and Left (-) terminals.
- Bridged Mode (Mono): To bridge the amplifier for a single channel (e.g., a subwoofer), connect the speaker's positive (+) terminal to the Right (+) terminal and the speaker's negative (-) terminal to the Left (-) terminal. Ensure the speaker impedance is 4 Ohms or higher when bridged. The amplifier can deliver up to 3000 Watts in bridged mode.
Figure 3: Rear view of the Pyramid PB2518 amplifier, illustrating the RCA inputs, high-level input, and various control knobs (Bass Boost, Crossover Mode, Gain).
Operating the Amplifier
Once installed, adjust the amplifier settings for optimal audio performance.
1. Gain Control (Input Level)
The "INPUT LEVEL" (Gain) control matches the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output level of your head unit. Start with the gain set to minimum (MIN). Gradually increase the gain until you achieve a clear, undistorted sound at your desired volume level from the head unit. Avoid setting the gain too high, as this can introduce distortion and potentially damage speakers.
2. Crossover Settings
The PB2518 features fully adjustable electronic crossovers to direct specific frequency ranges to your speakers or subwoofers.
- Crossover Mode Switch: Select between "FULL LP" (Full Range / Low Pass) or "HP" (High Pass).
- FULL: Passes the full audio frequency range to the speakers. Use this for full-range speakers or if your head unit handles crossovers.
- LP (Low Pass): Allows only frequencies below the set point to pass. Ideal for subwoofers. Adjust the "LOW PASS" knob to set the cutoff frequency (e.g., 50Hz-250Hz).
- HP (High Pass): Allows only frequencies above the set point to pass. Ideal for full-range speakers or component speakers to prevent low frequencies from distorting them. Adjust the "HIGH PASS" knob to set the cutoff frequency (e.g., 120Hz-3KHz).
3. Bass Boost
The "BASS BOOST" control allows you to enhance low frequencies (around 50Hz) from 0dB to +12dB. Use this feature sparingly and adjust carefully to avoid distortion or damage to your speakers, especially subwoofers.
4. Power and Protection LEDs
- POWER (Green LED): Illuminates when the amplifier is receiving power and operating normally.
- PROTECT (Red LED): Illuminates when the amplifier detects a fault condition (e.g., short circuit, overheating, low voltage). If this LED lights up, immediately turn off your audio system and troubleshoot the issue.
Maintenance
The Pyramid PB2518 amplifier requires minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure its longevity:
- Keep the amplifier clean and free of dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the heatsink. Do not block the cooling fins.
- Periodically check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
- Do not expose the amplifier to extreme temperatures or moisture.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your amplifier, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power (Power LED Off) | Blown fuse; loose power/ground connection; no remote turn-on signal. | Check amplifier fuse and inline battery fuse. Verify +12V, GND, and REM connections are secure and receiving proper voltage. |
| Protection LED On (Red) | Speaker short circuit; amplifier overheating; impedance too low; DC offset. | Check speaker wiring for shorts. Ensure adequate ventilation. Verify speaker impedance is within amplifier's limits. Allow amplifier to cool down. |
| No Sound Output | No input signal; gain set too low; speaker wires disconnected; incorrect crossover setting. | Check RCA/high-level input connections. Increase gain. Verify speaker connections. Adjust crossover settings. |
| Distorted Sound | Gain set too high; poor ground connection; damaged speakers; incorrect crossover. | Reduce gain. Ensure solid ground connection. Inspect speakers for damage. Adjust crossover settings. |
| Engine Noise/Whine | Poor grounding; RCA cables routed near power cables; faulty head unit. | Improve ground connection. Reroute RCA cables away from power cables. Consider a ground loop isolator. |
Specifications
Technical specifications for the Pyramid PB2518 amplifier:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PB2518 |
| Channels | 2 |
| Max Power Output (Stereo) | 2 x 1500 Watts |
| Max Power Output (Bridged) | 1 x 3000 Watts (into 4 Ohms) |
| Minimum Impedance | 2 Ohm Stereo Stable |
| Frequency Response | 15Hz - 30KHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) | >95dB |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | <0.04% |
| Input Voltage | 12 Volts (DC) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 13.75 x 12.5 x 4 inches (34.93 x 31.75 x 10.16 cm) |
| Weight | 3.7 Kilograms (approx. 8.16 lbs) |
Warranty and Support
The Pyramid PB2518 amplifier comes with a limited one-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modification.
For warranty service or technical support, please contact Pyramid customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For further assistance, visit the official Pyramid website or contact their support channels. Refer to your product packaging or the Pyramid website for the most current contact information.
