1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Soundstream Stealth Series ST4.1000DB Class D Bluetooth 4-Channel Amplifier. This compact and powerful amplifier is designed to deliver high-quality audio performance for your vehicle's sound system. Featuring Class D efficiency and integrated Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, it offers versatile installation options and convenient wireless audio streaming. This manual provides essential information for proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your amplifier.
Image 1.1: Two Soundstream Stealth Series ST4.1000DB amplifiers, as typically included in a 2-pack. These compact units are designed for discreet installation in various vehicle types.
2. Safety Information
Please read all instructions carefully before installing and operating your amplifier. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or damage to the amplifier or vehicle.
- Professional Installation Recommended: Installation of car audio components requires experience with electrical wiring and audio systems. If you are unsure, consult a qualified professional.
- Disconnect Battery: Always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before beginning any installation to prevent electrical shorts.
- Proper Fusing: Ensure an external fuse is installed on the main power wire, as close to the battery as possible. The amplifier includes an internal 30A fuse, but an additional external fuse is crucial for system protection.
- Ventilation: Mount the amplifier in a location that allows for adequate air circulation. Avoid mounting in enclosed spaces or directly on carpet where heat dissipation may be restricted.
- Avoid Moisture: Do not expose the amplifier to moisture or water.
- Hearing Protection: Prolonged exposure to high volume levels can cause permanent hearing damage. Use caution when adjusting volume.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- Soundstream Stealth Series ST4.1000DB Amplifier Unit(s)
- Power/Speaker Wiring Harness
- Input Wiring Harness (RCA/High-Level)
- Bluetooth Antenna
- Mounting Hardware (Screws)
- Instruction Manual (This document)
Image 3.1: Included wiring harnesses for power, speakers, and audio inputs. These harnesses simplify connections to the amplifier's compact terminals.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1 Mounting Location
Choose a mounting location that is dry, well-ventilated, and secure. Common locations include under seats, in the trunk, or behind dashboard panels. Ensure the amplifier is not exposed to direct sunlight, excessive heat, or moisture. Allow sufficient space around the amplifier for air circulation to prevent overheating.
4.2 Wiring Connections
Before making any connections, ensure the vehicle's negative battery terminal is disconnected.
- Power (B+): Connect the power wire from the amplifier's power harness to the vehicle's positive battery terminal. An in-line fuse holder with a 30A fuse (not included) should be installed within 18 inches (45 cm) of the battery.
- Ground (GND): Connect the ground wire from the amplifier's power harness to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a solid, low-resistance connection.
- Remote (REM): Connect the remote turn-on wire from the amplifier's power harness to the remote output of your head unit or other switched 12V source. This wire turns the amplifier on and off with your head unit.
- Speaker Outputs: Connect your speakers to the corresponding speaker output terminals on the amplifier's speaker harness. Pay attention to polarity (+/-). The amplifier supports 4-channel stereo operation or 2-channel bridged operation for higher power output to subwoofers or larger speakers. Refer to the diagram below for speaker connections.
- Audio Inputs (HI/LO Input): Connect the audio input harness to your head unit. Use the RCA inputs for low-level signals or the high-level inputs if your head unit does not have RCA outputs.
- Bluetooth Antenna: Screw the provided Bluetooth antenna into the designated ANT port on the amplifier.
Image 4.1: Rear panel connections of the amplifier, including speaker outputs, 30A fuse, and power input terminals (PW, GND, REQ). The green and red LEDs indicate power and protection status.
Image 4.2: Front panel of the amplifier, featuring the Bluetooth antenna connection (ANT) and the HI/LO input terminals for front and rear audio channels, as well as a THRU-PASS output.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Power On/Off
The amplifier will automatically power on when it receives a 12V signal from the remote turn-on wire (REM) connected to your head unit. It will power off when the head unit is turned off.
5.2 Bluetooth Pairing
To pair a Bluetooth device with your amplifier:
- Ensure the amplifier is powered on.
- On your Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., smartphone, tablet), go to the Bluetooth settings.
- Search for available devices. The amplifier should appear as "SOUNDSTREAM" or a similar identifier.
- Select the amplifier from the list to pair. Once paired, you can stream audio wirelessly to the amplifier.
5.3 Adjusting Controls
The amplifier features adjustable controls on its top panel for optimizing audio performance.
Image 5.1: Top view of the amplifier, displaying the control panel with gain and hi-pass filter adjustments for both front and rear channels.
Image 5.2: A clear overlay showing the labels for the control knobs, including GAIN and HI-PASS filter settings for both front and rear channels.
- GAIN (Input Level): These knobs adjust the input sensitivity of the amplifier. Start with the gain set to minimum (fully counter-clockwise). Gradually increase the gain until the desired volume is achieved without distortion. Match the gain to the output voltage of your head unit.
- HI-PASS (High-Pass Filter): These knobs adjust the high-pass crossover frequency. A high-pass filter allows frequencies above the set point to pass through to the speakers, blocking lower frequencies. This is useful for protecting smaller speakers from damaging bass frequencies. Adjust according to your speaker's capabilities and desired sound.
6. Maintenance
The Soundstream Stealth Series amplifier is designed for reliable operation with minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure longevity:
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Connections: Occasionally check all wiring connections (power, ground, remote, speaker, input) to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to poor performance or damage.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the amplifier's cooling fins are not obstructed by dirt, dust, or other materials. Proper airflow is crucial for heat dissipation.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience problems with your amplifier, refer to the following common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Amplifier does not turn on (No Power LED) | No power to amplifier; Blown fuse; Loose ground connection; Faulty remote wire. | Check in-line fuse near battery and amplifier's internal 30A fuse. Verify power (B+) and ground (GND) connections are secure. Ensure remote (REM) wire receives 12V when head unit is on. |
| No sound output | No audio input signal; Speaker wires disconnected; Amplifier in protection mode; Gain set too low. | Check RCA/high-level input connections from head unit. Verify speaker wire connections at amplifier and speakers. If protection LED is on, refer to overheating/short circuit. Increase gain setting. |
| Distorted sound | Gain set too high; Speaker impedance mismatch; Damaged speakers; Poor ground connection. | Reduce gain setting. Ensure speaker impedance matches amplifier's capabilities. Inspect speakers for damage. Verify ground connection is solid. |
| Amplifier overheats (Protection LED on) | Insufficient ventilation; Speaker impedance too low; Short circuit in speaker wiring. | Ensure amplifier has adequate airflow. Check speaker impedance; do not connect speakers below the minimum recommended impedance. Inspect speaker wires for shorts. Allow amplifier to cool down. |
| Bluetooth connection issues | Antenna not connected; Device too far; Interference. | Ensure Bluetooth antenna is securely attached. Move device closer to amplifier. Avoid sources of strong electromagnetic interference. Try re-pairing the device. |
8. Specifications
The following are key specifications for the Soundstream Stealth Series ST4.1000DB Amplifier:
- Model Number: ST4.1000DB
- Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.9 x 2 inches; 5.2 Pounds
- Voltage: 12 Volts (DC)
- Maximum Supply Voltage: 12 Volts (DC)
- Mounting Type: Surface Mount
- Channels: 4-Channel
- Amplifier Class: Class D
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0
9. Warranty and Support
Soundstream products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Soundstream website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For further assistance, please contact Soundstream customer support directly.
