Sound Storm Laboratories EV1500M Evolution Monoblock Car Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Sound Storm Laboratories EV1500M Evolution Monoblock Car Amplifier. The EV1500M is a Class A/B amplifier designed to deliver powerful audio performance for your vehicle's sound system, featuring a MOSFET Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) power supply for efficiency and precise control. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or operation to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Image 1.1: Top view of the Sound Storm Laboratories EV1500M Evolution Monoblock Car Amplifier.

2. Key Features

• 2 Ohm Stable Operation: Allows for flexible speaker configurations and increased output power.
• Thermal and Speaker Short Protection: Built-in safeguards to protect the amplifier from damage due to overheating or speaker short circuits.
• Soft Turn-On Circuit: Prevents audible pops or thumps when the amplifier is powered on.
• Remote Turn On / Turn Off Circuit: Enables the amplifier to be turned on and off automatically with your car's head unit.
• Variable Input Gain Control: Allows matching the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output of your head unit.
• Nickel Plated RCA Low Level and High Level Inputs: Provides versatile connection options for various audio sources.
• LED Power and Protection Indicators: Visual cues for amplifier status.
• Black Anodized Heatsink: Efficiently dissipates heat for reliable performance.
• Remote Subwoofer Level Control: Provides convenient adjustment of subwoofer output from the driver's seat.

Technology Overview

• MOSFET PWM Power Supply: Utilizes Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors in a Pulse Width Modulated design for efficient power delivery, precise voltage and current control, and reduced size and weight.
• Class A/B Topology: Combines the efficiency of Class B amplifiers with the low distortion characteristics of Class A amplifiers, offering a balanced performance.
• Variable Low-Pass Crossover: Allows the user to set the specific frequency range for bass reproduction, optimizing sound output for subwoofers and minimizing distortion.
• Variable Bass Boost (0 – 18 +dB): Provides adjustable bass enhancement, allowing precise control over the intensity of low frequencies.

3. Setup and Installation

Important: Professional installation of this product is strongly recommended to ensure proper functionality, safety, and to maintain warranty coverage. Incorrect installation can lead to damage to the amplifier, vehicle, or personal injury.

3.1 Mounting the Amplifier

Choose a secure, well-ventilated location for mounting the amplifier. Ensure it is protected from moisture and excessive heat. Allow sufficient space around the heatsink for air circulation.

3.2 Power Connections

Connect the power, ground, and remote turn-on wires to the designated terminals on the amplifier. Use appropriate gauge wiring for power and ground connections, ensuring a secure and clean connection. An in-line fuse (30A x 1) is provided and must be installed on the main power wire near the vehicle's battery.

Image 3.1: Power and Speaker Output Terminals on the EV1500M amplifier. Note the BATT+, REMOTE, GROUND terminals and the FUSE slot.

• BATT+ (Battery Positive): Connect directly to the positive terminal of the vehicle's battery.
• REMOTE (Remote Turn-On): Connect to the remote output of your head unit. This wire signals the amplifier to turn on and off.
• GROUND (Ground): Connect to a clean, unpainted metal surface of the vehicle chassis. Ensure a solid electrical connection.

3.3 Speaker Output Connections

Connect your subwoofer(s) to the speaker output terminals. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and – to –) for optimal sound performance. The EV1500M is a monoblock amplifier, designed for single-channel output, typically for a subwoofer or multiple subwoofers wired to a single channel.

3.4 Audio Input Connections

The EV1500M offers both low-level (RCA) and high-level inputs. Do not connect both simultaneously. Low-level (RCA) input wiring is preferred for best audio performance.

Image 3.2: Input Controls and RCA/High-Level Inputs on the EV1500M amplifier.

• Low-Level Inputs (RCA): Connect RCA cables from the RCA outputs of your head unit to the RCA inputs on the amplifier. Use high-quality RCA cables to minimize noise.
• High-Level Inputs: If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, connect the speaker wires from your head unit to the high-level input terminal block on the amplifier.

3.5 Remote Subwoofer Level Control Connection

Connect the included remote subwoofer level control to the designated port on the amplifier using the provided cable. Mount the control in a convenient location within the vehicle.

Image 3.3: Remote Subwoofer Level Control for the EV1500M amplifier.

4. Operating Instructions

Once the amplifier is correctly installed, you can adjust its settings to optimize audio performance.

4.1 Variable Input Gain Control (Sensitivity)

This control matches the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output voltage of your head unit. Start with the gain control at its minimum setting. 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.

4.2 Variable Low-Pass Crossover (LPF)

The low-pass crossover filters out high frequencies, sending only low frequencies to your subwoofer. Adjust this control to set the upper frequency limit for your subwoofer. A common starting point is between 80Hz and 120Hz, but the ideal setting depends on your specific subwoofers and other speakers in your system.

4.3 Variable Bass Boost

This control allows you to enhance the bass output at a specific frequency. Adjust the bass boost to add more impact to your low frequencies. Use this feature sparingly to avoid distortion and potential damage to your speakers.

4.4 Remote Subwoofer Level Control

The remote control allows you to adjust the subwoofer output level conveniently from your driving position without accessing the amplifier directly.

5. Maintenance

The EV1500M amplifier requires minimal maintenance. Periodically inspect the wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Keep the amplifier's heatsink clean and free of dust or debris to ensure proper heat dissipation. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the amplifier's surface.

6. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your amplifier, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power: Check the main fuse near the battery and the fuse on the amplifier. Verify all power, ground, and remote turn-on connections are secure and have proper voltage.
• No Sound: Ensure all RCA or high-level input connections are secure. Check speaker wire connections for correct polarity and shorts. Verify the head unit is sending an audio signal.
• Distorted Sound: Reduce the input gain control. Check for proper crossover settings. Ensure speaker impedance matches the amplifier's capabilities.
• Amplifier Goes into Protection Mode (Protection LED On): This indicates an issue such as overheating, a speaker short circuit, or an impedance mismatch. Allow the amplifier to cool down. Check speaker wiring for shorts. Verify speaker impedance.

If problems persist after performing these checks, consult a professional car audio installer or contact Sound Storm Laboratories customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Warranty Information

Sound Storm Laboratories provides a standard one-year warranty covering parts and labor. This warranty period increases to six years if the product is installed by a professional installer. Please retain your proof of purchase and professional installation documentation (if applicable) for warranty claims.

8.2 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 the most current contact information.

Manufacturer Contact Information: OXNARD, CA, 93030 US