1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Blaupunkt EMA 455 600-Watt 4-Channel Amplifier. This amplifier is designed to significantly enhance your in-car audio experience by providing clean, powerful sound to your speakers. With its robust design and versatile features, the EMA 455 delivers exceptional audio performance for a wide range of car audio setups.
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your amplifier. Please read it thoroughly before installation and keep it for future reference.
2. Safety Information
To ensure safe operation and prevent damage, observe the following precautions:
- Always disconnect the vehicle's battery negative terminal before beginning any electrical work.
- Ensure all wiring is properly insulated and secured to prevent short circuits and damage.
- Install the amplifier in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
- Use appropriate gauge wiring for power, ground, and speaker connections as specified in this manual.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the amplifier. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Avoid operating the amplifier at excessively high volumes for prolonged periods, as this can damage your hearing and audio equipment.
3. Product Overview
The Blaupunkt EMA 455 is a 4-channel amplifier designed for versatile audio configurations. Below is an image illustrating the amplifier's layout and key connection points and controls.
Figure 3.1: Blaupunkt EMA 455 Amplifier - Top and Control Panel View
This image displays the sleek black brushed aluminum casing of the Blaupunkt EMA 455 amplifier. The top surface features the "BLAUPUNKT" logo and "EMA 455 4/2/1 Channel Power Amplifier 600 Watts" text. The side panel, visible on the right, houses the various input and control terminals. These include RCA inputs for Front and Rear channels, Level (gain) controls, X-OVER switches (High Pass, Flat, Low Pass), Low Pass filter frequency adjustment (50-250 Hz), Bass Boost switch (0/6/12 dB), and a High-Level Input terminal. The amplifier also features cooling fins along its sides for heat dissipation.
Key Features:
- Technical Concept: Class A/B amplifier for balanced performance.
- Channel Configuration: 4/3/2 channel operation for flexible system design.
- Power Output: 600 Watts maximum total power (2-channel mode).
- RMS Power: 4x55 Watts RMS at 4 Ohms, 4x80 Watts RMS at 2 Ohms, 2x165 Watts RMS bridged at 4 Ohms.
- Frequency Range: 10-30000 Hz (-3dB).
- Stability: 2 Ohms stable.
- Signal/Noise Ratio: >85 dB/A.
- Adjustable Gain: 0.2-10V input sensitivity.
- Crossovers: Low Pass Filter (50-250 Hz) and High Pass Filter (80 Hz).
- Bass Boost: Selectable 0/6/12 dB at 45 Hz.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified car audio professional.
4.1 Mounting Location
- Choose a location that is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
- Ensure sufficient airflow around the amplifier's cooling fins.
- Mount the amplifier securely to a solid surface using appropriate hardware to prevent movement during vehicle operation.
4.2 Wiring Connections
Before making any connections, disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
- Power (B+): Connect a suitable gauge power cable directly from the positive terminal of the vehicle's battery to the amplifier's B+ terminal. An inline fuse holder (not supplied) with an appropriate fuse rating must be installed within 18 inches of the battery.
- Ground (GND): Connect a short, heavy-gauge ground cable from the amplifier's GND terminal to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a good electrical connection.
- Remote (REM): Connect a remote turn-on wire from your head unit's remote output to the amplifier's REM terminal. This wire turns the amplifier on and off with your head unit.
- RCA Inputs (FRONT/REAR): Connect RCA cables from your head unit's pre-amp outputs to the corresponding RCA inputs on the amplifier.
- High-Level Input: If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, use the High-Level Input. Connect the speaker wires from your head unit directly to the High-Level Input terminal block.
- Speaker Outputs: Connect your speakers to the amplifier's speaker output terminals. Observe correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). The EMA 455 supports 2-ohm stability, allowing for various speaker configurations, including bridging channels for higher power output to subwoofers. Refer to the wiring diagrams in your head unit or speaker manual for specific configurations.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the amplifier can be fine-tuned for optimal audio performance.
5.1 Gain (Level) Adjustment
The LEVEL control adjusts the input sensitivity of the amplifier to match the output voltage of your head unit. To set the gain:
- Turn the amplifier's LEVEL control to its minimum (MIN) setting.
- Set your head unit's volume to about 75-80% of its maximum.
- Slowly increase the amplifier's LEVEL control until you hear distortion, then back it off slightly until the sound is clear.
Note: The gain control is not a volume control. Setting it too high can lead to distorted sound and potential damage to your speakers.
5.2 Crossover Settings (X-OVER)
The EMA 455 features selectable crossover filters to optimize sound reproduction for different types of speakers.
- FLAT: Disables the crossover, allowing the full frequency range to pass through. Use this for full-range speakers or if your head unit has its own crossover.
- HIGH PASS (HPF): Allows frequencies above the set point to pass through. Useful for front/rear speakers to prevent them from playing low bass frequencies, which can cause distortion. The HPF is fixed at 80 Hz.
- LOW PASS (LPF): Allows frequencies below the set point to pass through. Essential for subwoofers. The LPF is adjustable from 50 Hz to 250 Hz.
Adjust the LPF frequency using the dedicated knob to match your subwoofer's characteristics and blend seamlessly with your other speakers.
5.3 Bass Boost
The BASS BOOST switch provides an adjustable bass enhancement at 45 Hz. You can select 0 dB (off), 6 dB, or 12 dB of boost. Use this feature sparingly and adjust to taste, as excessive bass boost can lead to distortion and speaker damage.
6. Maintenance
The Blaupunkt EMA 455 amplifier requires minimal maintenance to ensure long-term performance.
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the cooling fins are free from dust and debris to maintain proper heat dissipation.
- Connections: Occasionally check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your amplifier, consult the following table before contacting support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power/Amplifier not turning on | Blown fuse; Loose power/ground/remote wire; No remote signal from head unit. | Check and replace fuse; Verify all power, ground, and remote connections are secure; Check head unit's remote output. |
| No sound output | Loose RCA/speaker connections; Incorrect gain setting; Head unit volume too low; Amplifier in protection mode. | Check all audio connections; Adjust gain properly; Increase head unit volume; Check for overheating or short circuits. |
| Distorted sound | Gain set too high; Incorrect crossover settings; Speaker impedance mismatch; Damaged speakers. | Lower gain setting; Adjust crossover filters appropriately; Verify speaker impedance matches amplifier's capabilities; Inspect speakers for damage. |
| Engine noise/Whining sound | Poor grounding; RCA cables too close to power cables; Faulty RCA cables. | Ensure a solid, clean ground connection; Route RCA cables away from power cables; Try different RCA cables. |
| Amplifier overheating | Insufficient ventilation; Speaker impedance too low; Prolonged high volume use. | Ensure proper airflow around amplifier; Verify speaker impedance; Reduce volume or usage time. |
8. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Blaupunkt EMA 455 amplifier.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | EMA 455 (1 051 110 340 001) |
| Technical Concept | Class A/B |
| Number of Channels | 4/3/2 |
| Maximum Total Power | 600 Watts (2-channel mode) |
| RMS Power (4 Ohms) | 4 x 55 Watts |
| RMS Power (2 Ohms) | 4 x 80 Watts |
| RMS Power (Bridged 4 Ohms) | 2 x 165 Watts |
| Frequency Range | 10 - 30000 Hz (-3dB) |
| Stability | 2 Ohms |
| Signal/Noise Ratio | > 85 dB/A |
| Gain Adjust | 0.2 - 10V |
| Bass Boost | 0/6/12 dB at 45 Hz |
| Low Pass Filter | 50 - 250 Hz |
| High Pass Filter | 80 Hz |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 23.11 x 35.18 x 9.19 cm |
| Item Weight | 1.92 kg |
| UPC | 013964081435 |
9. Warranty and Support
Blaupunkt stands behind the quality of its products. For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or contact your local authorized Blaupunkt dealer.
Contact Information:
Manufacturer: Blaupunkt
Importer (India): Blaupunkt India P Ltd
# 47 Atlanta Society, 4th. Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021, Maharashtra, India.
Phone: +91.22.67675959
Email: info@blaupunktcar.in
Toll Free Contact: 1 800 209 6820
For the most up-to-date support information, please visit the official Blaupunkt website or contact their customer service.
