1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Power Acoustik RE5-3000D 5-Channel Car Audio 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.
Figure 1: Power Acoustik RE5-3000D 5-Channel Car Audio Amplifier with remote gain control.
2. Key Features
- 5-Channel Full Range Operation
- 2-Ohm Stable Class A/B Amplifier
- Maximum Power Output: 3000 Watts
- RMS Power at 4 Ohms: 100 Watts x 4 + 350 Watts x 1
- RMS Power at 2 Ohms: 150 Watts x 4 + 500 Watts x 1
- RMS Power at 4 Ohms Bridged: 300W x 2 + 500 Watts x 1
- Direct Short, Thermal, & Overload Circuits Protection
- 200mV-6V High Level or Low Level RCA Input
- Tri-Mode Capable
- Variable 12dB High, Low, & Subsonic Crossovers
- Variable 12dB Band-Pass Crossovers
- Direct Wire 4ga. Power & 12ga Speaker Terminals
- Dash Mounted Remote Gain Control
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 15" x 8.5" x 2.2" inches
3. Safety Information
Always disconnect the vehicle's battery before installing or servicing any electrical components. Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrical hazards. Use appropriate wire gauges and fuses as specified in this manual to avoid overheating and potential fire. Professional installation is recommended.
4. Setup
4.1 Power and Speaker Connections
The amplifier's power and speaker terminals are located on one end of the unit. Ensure all connections are secure and correctly polarized.
Figure 2: Rear view of the amplifier with power and speaker terminals.
- +12V (Power): Connect a 4-gauge power wire from the vehicle's positive battery terminal. Install an appropriate fuse (not supplied) within 18 inches of the battery.
- REM (Remote): Connect a remote turn-on wire from your head unit. This wire signals the amplifier to turn on and off with your vehicle's audio system.
- GND (Ground): Connect a 4-gauge ground wire to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a solid, low-resistance connection.
- Speaker Outputs: Connect your speakers to the corresponding terminals. Channels 1 & 2, and 3 & 4 can be bridged for higher power output to a single speaker or subwoofer. Refer to the wiring diagrams in the full manual for specific bridging instructions.
4.2 Fuses
The amplifier features three 30-amp fuses. Always replace blown fuses with the correct type and amperage rating to prevent damage to the amplifier.
4.3 Input Connections
The amplifier supports both high-level and low-level (RCA) inputs. Connect your head unit's audio outputs to the appropriate input jacks.
Figure 3: Front view of the amplifier with input and control panel.
- RCA Inputs: Connect RCA cables from your head unit's pre-amp outputs to the amplifier's Front, Rear, and Subwoofer RCA inputs.
- High-Level Inputs: If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, use the high-level input connections. Connect speaker wires from your head unit's speaker outputs to the high-level input terminals.
5. Operating the Amplifier
5.1 Input Controls
The amplifier features various controls to fine-tune your audio output:
- Gain Controls: Adjust the input sensitivity for each channel (Front, Rear, Subwoofer) to match the output level of your head unit. Set these correctly before tuning to prevent distortion.
- Crossovers (HPF, LPF, Subsonic, Band-Pass): Use these to filter specific frequencies to your speakers and subwoofer.
- Bass Boost: Adjust the bass level for the subwoofer channel.
- Input Mode Switch: Allows selection between 2-channel, 4-channel, or 5-channel input modes, enabling all five channels to work even with fewer input signals.
5.2 LED Indicators
Two LED indicators are located near the subwoofer control:
- Power LED (Green): Illuminates when the amplifier is powered on and operating normally.
- Protection LED (Red): Illuminates if the amplifier enters protection mode due to overheating, short circuit, or other fault conditions. If this LED lights up, turn off your audio system and check all connections and speaker impedances.
5.3 Remote Gain Control
A dash-mounted remote gain control is included for convenient adjustment of the subwoofer level from the driver's seat.
Figure 4: Dash-mounted remote gain control.
6. Maintenance
Regularly inspect all wiring for signs of wear or damage. Ensure the amplifier's cooling fins are free from dust and debris to maintain optimal operating temperature. Clean the exterior of the amplifier with a soft, dry cloth.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Power: Check the main power fuse at the battery, the amplifier's internal fuses, and the remote turn-on connection. Ensure the ground wire is securely connected.
- Protection LED On: Disconnect speakers and check for short circuits. Allow the amplifier to cool down if it's overheating. Verify speaker impedance is within the amplifier's rated limits.
- No Audio Output: Check RCA or high-level input connections. Verify head unit output. Adjust gain controls.
- Distorted Sound: Reduce gain settings. Check for proper crossover settings. Ensure speaker impedance matches amplifier output.
8. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Power Acoustik |
| Model Number | RE5-3000D |
| Output Power | 3000 Watts (Max) |
| Number of Channels | 5 |
| Voltage | 6 Volts (Min) |
| Maximum Supply Voltage | 37 Volts |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Item Weight | 9.93 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 18.6 x 10.2 x 3.4 inches |
| Specification Met | FCC |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Power Acoustik website or contact their customer service directly. Details are typically provided in the product packaging or on the manufacturer's website.
