DS18 CANDY-X5B Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the DS18 CANDY-X5B Class D 5-Channel Amplifier. This amplifier is designed to provide high-quality audio amplification for your car audio system, delivering powerful and clear sound across multiple channels. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your amplifier.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect the vehicle's battery negative terminal before beginning any installation.
• Ensure proper grounding of the amplifier to the vehicle's chassis.
• Use appropriate gauge power and speaker wires to prevent overheating and ensure stable operation.
• Avoid installing the amplifier in areas exposed to direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, or dust.
• Do not attempt to open or repair the amplifier yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Protect wiring from sharp edges and moving parts to prevent damage.

3. Package Contents

Your DS18 CANDY-X5B Amplifier package should include the following items:

• DS18 CANDY-X5B Amplifier
• Remote Subwoofer Level Controller

Image: The DS18 CANDY-X5B amplifier shown with its included remote subwoofer level controller and connecting cable.

4. Product Overview

4.1 Key Features

• All-in-One 5-Channel Powerhouse: Delivers 2000W peak output across 5 channels for mids, highs, and a subwoofer.
• Massive Output in a Mini Footprint: Compact design with significant power output (4 x 120W RMS @ 4Ω, 4 x 200W @ 2Ω, 2 x 350W bridged, plus 500W @ 1Ω for sub).
• Built-In Subwoofer Control: Features LPF, 6/12dB Bass Boost, and Phase Control on the sub channel, with a remote bass knob.
• OEM-Ready & Easy to Install: High-Level Inputs with Auto Turn-On, low-level RCA inputs, and efficient Class D architecture.
• DS18 Quality & Protection: Built with Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and includes short circuit, thermal, and voltage protection (9V–16V).

4.2 Amplifier Components

Image: Top view of the amplifier showing the input and control panel. This includes RCA inputs, gain controls, high-pass filters (HPF), low-pass filters (LPF), and input select switches for channels 1/2, 3/4, and the subwoofer channel.

Image: Rear view of the amplifier displaying the power input terminals (+12V, REM, GND), fuse slots, and speaker output terminals for channels 1-4 and the dedicated subwoofer channel.

Image: Close-up of the remote subwoofer level controller, which allows for convenient adjustment of the subwoofer output level.

5. Setup and Installation

5.1 Mounting the Amplifier

Choose a secure and well-ventilated location for mounting the amplifier. Ensure there is sufficient airflow around the unit to prevent overheating. Use the provided mounting hardware to firmly secure the amplifier to a solid surface in your vehicle.

5.2 Power Connections

1. Ground (GND) Terminal: Connect a short, heavy-gauge cable (minimum 4 AWG recommended) from the amplifier's GND terminal directly to a clean, unpainted metal point on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a solid electrical connection.
2. Remote (REM) Terminal: Connect a 18 AWG wire from the amplifier's REM terminal to the remote turn-on output of your head unit. This wire signals the amplifier to turn on when your audio system is activated.
3. +12V Terminal: Connect a heavy-gauge power cable (minimum 4 AWG recommended) from the amplifier's +12V terminal directly to the positive terminal of your vehicle's battery. Install an in-line fuse holder with the appropriate fuse rating (refer to specifications) within 18 inches (45 cm) of the battery.

5.3 Audio Input Connections

The CANDY-X5B amplifier supports both low-level (RCA) and high-level inputs.

• Low-Level (RCA) Input: Connect RCA cables from your head unit's pre-amp outputs to the corresponding RCA inputs on the amplifier (CH1/2, CH3/4, SUB).
• High-Level Input: If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, you can use the high-level inputs. Connect the speaker wires from your head unit's speaker outputs to the high-level input connector on the amplifier. The amplifier features an Auto Turn-On function when using high-level inputs.

5.4 Speaker Connections

Connect your speakers to the amplifier's speaker output terminals. Pay close attention to polarity (+ and -) for each speaker. The amplifier supports various configurations:

• Channels 1-4: Connect your full-range speakers or component sets. These channels can be bridged for higher power output to a pair of speakers.
• Subwoofer Channel: Connect your subwoofer(s) to the dedicated SUB output. This channel is optimized for low-frequency reproduction.

Refer to the wiring diagram in the full manual for specific speaker configurations and impedance matching.

5.5 Remote Subwoofer Level Controller Connection

Connect the remote subwoofer level controller to the