1. Important Safety Information
Please read this manual thoroughly before installing and operating your Blaupunkt AMP1404 amplifier. Keep this manual for future reference. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or damage to the product or vehicle.
- Professional Installation Recommended: Installation of car audio equipment requires experience with electrical wiring and audio system configuration. Professional installation is highly recommended.
- Power Source: Ensure the vehicle's electrical system can support the amplifier's power requirements. Use appropriate gauge wiring.
- Ventilation: Install the amplifier in a location that allows for adequate airflow to prevent overheating.
- Moisture and Heat: Avoid installing the amplifier in areas exposed to direct sunlight, excessive heat, or moisture.
- Secure Mounting: Mount the amplifier securely to prevent it from coming loose during vehicle operation or in the event of an accident.
2. Product Overview
The Blaupunkt AMP1404 is a 4-channel Class AB car audio amplifier designed to deliver powerful and clear sound. It features adjustable crossovers, gain controls, and robust power handling for an enhanced in-car audio experience.
Key Features:
- Amplifier Class: AB
- Channels: 4/3/2 Channel configurable
- Max Output Power: 1500W
- RMS Power (2 ohms): 300W x 4
- RMS Power (4 ohms): 150W x 4
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-30KHz
- Crossover Frequency: 50Hz-250Hz
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 96dB
- Voltage Supply: 11-15V DC
- Gain Adjust: 200mV-8V
- Dimensions: 11.81 x 7.48 x 2 inches
Figure 2.1: Angled view of the Blaupunkt AMP1404 amplifier, showcasing its compact design and heat sink fins.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Ensure the vehicle's battery is disconnected before beginning installation.
3.1 Mounting the Amplifier
Choose a mounting location that is dry, well-ventilated, and away from direct heat sources. Ensure sufficient space around the amplifier for airflow. The amplifier can be surface mounted using the provided screws.
Figure 3.1: Top view of the AMP1404, indicating its compact size for various mounting options.
3.2 Power Connections
Connect the power cables as follows:
- +12V (Power): Connect to the positive terminal of the car battery via an in-line fuse (not included, recommended 60A).
- GND (Ground): Connect to a clean, unpainted metal surface of the vehicle chassis. Ensure a good electrical connection.
- REM (Remote Turn-On): Connect to the remote output of your head unit. This wire turns the amplifier on and off with your car's audio system.
Figure 3.2: Detailed view of the power input terminals (GND, REM, +12V) and fuse slots.
3.3 Speaker Connections
The AMP1404 supports 4-channel, 3-channel, or 2-channel (bridged) configurations. Ensure speaker impedance matches the amplifier's capabilities (2 ohms or 4 ohms bridged).
- 4-Channel Mode: Connect each speaker to its corresponding channel output (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4).
- 3-Channel Mode: Bridge two channels for a subwoofer (e.g., CH3/CH4) and use the remaining two channels for full-range speakers (CH1, CH2).
- 2-Channel (Bridged) Mode: Bridge channels (e.g., CH1/CH2 and CH3/CH4) for two high-power outputs, typically for subwoofers.
Figure 3.3: Overview of the power input and speaker output terminals, including bridging options.
3.4 Audio Input Connections
The amplifier accepts both RCA (low-level) and high-level inputs.
- RCA Input: Connect RCA cables from your head unit's pre-out to the amplifier's RCA input jacks (CH1/CH2, CH3/CH4).
- High-Level Input: If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, connect the speaker wires directly to the high-level input terminals.
Figure 3.4: Angled view showing the RCA input jacks and control knobs.
4. Operating the Amplifier
Once installed, adjust the amplifier settings for optimal sound performance.
4.1 Control Panel Overview
Figure 4.1: Close-up of the amplifier's control panel, detailing gain, crossover, and bass boost adjustments.
- Gain Adjust (MIN/MAX): Adjusts the input sensitivity to match the output of your head unit. Start at minimum and slowly increase until desired volume is achieved without distortion.
- HPF (High Pass Filter): Allows frequencies above the set point to pass through. Useful for full-range speakers to prevent low bass distortion.
- LPF (Low Pass Filter): Allows frequencies below the set point to pass through. Essential for subwoofers to reproduce only bass frequencies.
- FULL (Full Range): Disables both HPF and LPF, allowing all frequencies to pass through.
- Bass Boost (0dB/6dB/12dB): Increases the bass output at a specific frequency. Use sparingly to avoid distortion.
- Mode (2CH/4CH): Selects the input mode based on your wiring configuration.
- PRT/PWR Indicator: The Power (PWR) LED indicates the amplifier is on. The Protect (PRT) LED indicates a fault condition (e.g., overheating, short circuit).
4.2 Initial Setup Steps
- Set all gain controls to minimum.
- Set crossover filters to FULL for initial testing, then adjust as needed.
- Turn on your head unit and slowly increase the volume.
- Gradually increase the amplifier's gain control until the desired volume is reached without audible distortion.
- Adjust HPF/LPF and Bass Boost to fine-tune the sound to your preference.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your amplifier.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the amplifier. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ventilation: Periodically check that the amplifier's heat sink fins are free from dust and debris to maintain proper cooling.
- Connections: Ensure all power, ground, remote, and speaker connections are secure and free from corrosion.
- Fuse Replacement: If a fuse blows, replace it only with a fuse of the same type and rating (25A). Using an incorrect fuse can cause damage or fire.
6. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your amplifier, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power (PWR LED off) | Blown fuse, loose power/ground/remote wire, no power from head unit. | Check/replace fuse. Verify all power connections. Check remote wire connection to head unit. |
| Protection Mode (PRT LED on) | Overheating, short circuit in speaker wiring, speaker impedance too low. | Allow amplifier to cool. Check speaker wiring for shorts. Verify speaker impedance. |
| No Sound | Loose RCA/speaker connections, incorrect gain settings, head unit issue. | Check all audio connections. Adjust gain. Test head unit with other speakers. |
| Distorted Sound | Gain set too high, incorrect crossover settings, poor quality audio source. | Reduce gain. Adjust HPF/LPF. Use a high-quality audio source. |
7. Specifications
- Brand: BLAUPUNKT
- Model: AMP1404
- Amplifier Class: AB
- Number of Channels: 4
- Max Output Power: 1500 Watts
- RMS Power (2 ohms): 300W x 4
- RMS Power (4 ohms): 150W x 4
- Frequency Response: 10Hz - 30KHz
- Crossover Frequency: 50Hz - 250Hz
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 96dB
- Minimum Supply Voltage: 11 Volts (DC)
- Maximum Supply Voltage: 15 Volts (DC)
- Gain Adjust Range: 200mV - 8V
- Material: Metal
- Mounting Type: Surface Mount
- Item Weight: 6.13 pounds
- Package Dimensions: 15.55 x 8.58 x 2.91 inches
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions. Typically, the warranty covers manufacturing defects and material faults under normal use. Damage caused by improper installation, misuse, or unauthorized modifications is generally not covered.
Return Policy: The standard return policy for this product is 30 days for refund or replacement, provided the item is in its original condition.
8.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or product inquiries, please contact Blaupunkt customer support. Ensure you have your product model number (AMP1404) and purchase details ready when contacting support.
For the most up-to-date support information, please visit the official Blaupunkt website or consult your retailer.
9. Product Video
Watch this video for a visual overview of the Blaupunkt AMP1404PRO 4-Channel Amplifier, demonstrating its features and connections.
Video 9.1: Overview of the Blaupunkt AMP1404PRO 4-Channel Amplifier. This video provides a visual guide to the amplifier's design and features.
