1. Introduction and Overview
The AXTON A401 is a compact yet powerful 4-channel Class D car amplifier designed to enhance your vehicle's audio system. With its efficient Class D technology, the A401 delivers 4 x 100 Watts of power in a small footprint, making it suitable for flexible installation in cars, camper vans, or caravans. Its robust aluminum housing and massive heat sink ensure optimal operating temperature and long-term reliability.
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your AXTON A401 amplifier. Please read it thoroughly before attempting any installation or operation.
2. Product Features
- Compact Design: Measuring only 10.5 cm wide and 4 cm high, the A401 offers significant power in a minimal space.
- High Power Output: Delivers 4 x 100 Watts, providing ample power for a dynamic audio experience.
- Class D Technology: Ensures high efficiency and reduced heat generation.
- Robust Aluminum Casing: Features a premium black aluminum housing with a massive heat sink for effective heat dissipation.
- Optimized Circuitry: Designed for low distortion with selected components, ensuring transparent and dynamic sound reproduction.
- Integrated Crossovers: 12 dB/octave electronic crossovers, continuously adjustable from 40 to 400 Hz, configurable as high-pass (HPF) or low-pass (LPF) filters.
- High-Level Inputs with Auto-Turn-On: Allows direct connection to original factory radios without RCA outputs, featuring an automatic turn-on function.
Figure 2.1: Top view of the AXTON A401 amplifier, showcasing its compact design.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. It is recommended that installation be performed by a qualified professional.
3.1 Mounting the Amplifier
Due to its compact dimensions, the A401 can be flexibly mounted in various locations within your vehicle. Ensure the mounting location provides adequate ventilation and is protected from moisture and excessive heat. Secure the amplifier firmly using appropriate hardware.
3.2 Power Connections
Connect the power cables as follows:
- +12V: Connect to the vehicle's positive battery terminal via a fuse (not included, ensure appropriate rating).
- REMOTE: Connect to the remote turn-on output of your head unit. If using high-level inputs with Auto-Turn-On, this connection may not be necessary.
- GROUND: Connect to a clean, unpainted metal point on the vehicle chassis. Ensure a solid, low-resistance connection.
3.3 Audio Input Connections
The A401 supports both low-level (RCA) and high-level inputs.
- Low-Level Input: Use RCA cables to connect to the RCA pre-outs of your head unit.
- High-Level Input: For head units without RCA outputs, use the supplied high-level input harness to connect directly to the speaker outputs of your head unit. The amplifier features an Auto-Turn-On function for these inputs, detecting DC offset or audio signal to power on automatically.
3.4 Speaker Output Connections
Connect your speakers to the amplifier's output terminals. The A401 is a 4-channel amplifier, allowing for connection of four speakers or two speakers in bridged mode for higher power output to subwoofers.
Figure 3.1: Rear panel connections for power and speaker outputs.
4. Operating Instructions
The AXTON A401 features various controls to fine-tune your audio system.
4.1 Gain (SENS) Adjustment
The SENS (Sensitivity) control adjusts the input gain of the amplifier. Set this control to match the output voltage of your head unit. Start with the SENS control at minimum and slowly increase it until the desired volume is achieved without distortion. Avoid setting the gain too high, as this can lead to distorted sound and potential damage to speakers.
4.2 Crossover Settings (X-OVER)
The A401 includes integrated electronic crossovers for each channel pair (Front and Rear). These allow you to filter specific frequency ranges to your speakers.
- LPF (Low-Pass Filter): Allows only frequencies below the set point to pass through. Useful for subwoofers.
- HPF (High-Pass Filter): Allows only frequencies above the set point to pass through. Useful for full-range or component speakers to prevent low frequencies that can cause distortion.
- FULL: Disables the crossover, allowing the full frequency range to pass.
The frequency knob (FREQ) allows continuous adjustment from 40 Hz to 400 Hz when LPF or HPF is selected.
4.3 Input Mode Selection
The INPUT MODE switch allows you to select between 2-channel and 4-channel input operation. This determines how the input signal is distributed to the amplifier's channels.
4.4 Auto-Turn-On Function
When using high-level inputs, the amplifier can automatically turn on by detecting a DC offset or audio signal from the factory head unit. This eliminates the need for a separate remote turn-on wire.
Figure 4.1: Control panel with SENS, X-OVER, FREQ, and Input Mode settings.
5. Maintenance
The AXTON A401 is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance.
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the amplifier's heat sink fins are not obstructed to allow for proper airflow and heat dissipation.
- Connections: Regularly check all power and speaker connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your AXTON A401 amplifier, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- No Power (PWR LED Off):
- Check the main fuse on the +12V power line.
- Verify all power connections (+12V, Remote, Ground) are secure and correctly wired.
- If using Auto-Turn-On, ensure the head unit is providing a signal or DC offset.
- Protection Mode (PRT LED On):
- This indicates a fault condition (e.g., short circuit, overheating, low voltage).
- Check speaker wiring for any shorts to ground or between positive and negative terminals.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the amplifier to prevent overheating.
- Verify the vehicle's battery voltage is stable.
- No Sound Output:
- Check all audio input connections (RCA or high-level) from the head unit.
- Verify speaker connections are secure and correct.
- Ensure the head unit's volume is up and not muted.
- Adjust the SENS (gain) control.
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the SENS (gain) control.
- Check for proper crossover settings; incorrect settings can cause distortion.
- Ensure speaker impedance matches the amplifier's specifications.
- Check for damaged speakers or wiring.
7. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | A401 |
| Manufacturer | AXTON |
| Number of Channels | 4 |
| Output Power | 100 Watts (per channel) |
| Voltage | 10 Volts (Operating) |
| Mounting Type | Through-hole or Surface Mount |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Package Dimensions | 27.9 x 16.4 x 7.2 cm |
| Item Weight | 1.4 kilograms |
8. Warranty and Support
Warranty information for the AXTON A401 amplifier is typically provided with the product packaging or can be found on the official AXTON website. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support, installation assistance, or further inquiries, please contact AXTON customer service or visit their official support channels. Refer to the contact information provided in your product documentation or on the manufacturer's website.
