Autotek ATEQ PK2 4-Band Audio Equalizer

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Autotek ATEQ PK2 4-Band Audio Equalizer with Built-in 2-Way Crossover. This device is designed to enhance your vehicle's audio system by offering precise sound customization and signal management. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or operation to ensure proper use and to prevent damage.

2. Key Features

• Half-DIN, 4-Band Preamp EQ with Front/Rear Active Crossover.
• Line Driver Circuit delivers 9 Volts of preamp level signal through the RCAs.
• Audio Input Selector for switching between head unit and another audio source.
• Input Level Controls for both the car radio and any media device to ensure identical volume levels.
• Master Volume Control of the SPL-Level for both sound sources.
• Front to Rear Dual-Amp Fader.
• 2 Audio Inputs with Level Matching.
• Selectable 12 dB High-Pass Crossover and Low-Pass Sub Output.
• Selectable for Mono or Stereo Subwoofer Setups.
• 45 Hz Sub-Bass Control.
• 120 Hz Mid-Bass Control.

3. Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions during installation and operation:

• Disconnect the vehicle's battery negative terminal before any electrical work.
• Ensure all wiring is properly insulated and secured to prevent shorts and damage.
• Mount the unit in a location that does not obstruct driver visibility or interfere with vehicle controls.
• Do not operate the unit at excessively high volumes for prolonged periods, as this may cause hearing damage.
• Refer to a professional installer if you are unsure about any installation steps.

4. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Autotek ATEQ PK2 Equalizer Unit
• Mounting Hardware (screws, brackets)
• Power Harness
• User Manual (this document)

5. Controls and Connections

5.1 Top Panel Controls and Connections

Figure 1: Top view of the Autotek ATEQ PK2 equalizer. This image displays the various RCA input and output jacks, including INPUT 1, INPUT 2, SUBWOOFER OUTPUT, FRONT OUT, and REAR OUT. On the right side, the power terminals for 12V+, REM (remote turn-on), and GND (ground) are visible. Additionally, two sets of switches are shown: one for SUBWOOFER settings (OFF, 50Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz, MONO, STEREO) and another for FRONT/REAR crossover settings (OFF, 80Hz, 120Hz, 200Hz).

• INPUT 1 / INPUT 2 (RCA): Audio input from your head unit or other source.
• INPUT LEVEL (Switch): Selects between Input 1 and Input 2.
• SUBWOOFER OUTPUT (RCA): Output for subwoofer amplifier.
• FRONT OUT / REAR OUT (RCA): Outputs for front and rear full-range amplifiers.
• 12V+ (Power): Connect to a fused constant 12V power source.
• REM (Remote): Connect to the head unit's remote turn-on lead.
• GND (Ground): Connect to a solid chassis ground point.
• SUBWOOFER Crossover Switches: Adjusts the low-pass filter frequency for the subwoofer output (OFF, 50Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz) and selects between Mono or Stereo output.
• FRONT/REAR Crossover Switches: Adjusts the high-pass filter frequency for the front and rear outputs (OFF, 80Hz, 120Hz, 200Hz).

5.2 Front Panel Controls

Figure 2: Front view of the Autotek ATEQ PK2 equalizer. This image highlights the various rotary controls and switches on the front panel, including VOL (Master Volume), SUB (Subwoofer Level), FADER (Front/Rear Balance), INPUT (Input Selector), LED (Illumination Switch), SUB BASS (Sub-Bass Boost), MID BASS (Mid-Bass Boost), MID (Mid-Range Equalization), and TREBLE (Treble Equalization). The controls are shown with blue illumination.

• VOL (Master Volume): Controls the overall output volume of the system.
• SUB (Subwoofer Level): Adjusts the output level of the subwoofer channel.
• FADER (Front/Rear): Balances the audio output between the front and rear channels.
• INPUT (Selector): Switches between Input 1 and Input 2 sources.
• LED (Switch): Toggles the illumination of the control knobs.
• SUB BASS (45 Hz): Boosts or cuts the sub-bass frequencies centered at 45 Hz.
• MID BASS (120 Hz): Boosts or cuts the mid-bass frequencies centered at 120 Hz.
• MID (Mid-Range): Boosts or cuts the mid-range frequencies.
• TREBLE (High-Range): Boosts or cuts the high-range frequencies.

5.3 Rear RCA Connections

Figure 3: Rear view of the Autotek ATEQ PK2 equalizer. This image shows a row of RCA jacks, which are typically used for connecting to amplifiers or other audio components. These connections correspond to the input and output RCAs detailed in Figure 1.

6. Installation

The Autotek ATEQ PK2 is a half-DIN unit designed for in-dash installation. Professional installation is recommended.

6.1 Mounting

• Choose a suitable location in your vehicle's dashboard that allows for easy access to controls and proper ventilation.
• Ensure there is enough depth behind the mounting surface for the unit and its wiring.
• Secure the unit using the provided mounting hardware.

6.2 Wiring Connections

1. Power (12V+): Connect the yellow wire to a constant 12V power source, fused at 1A.
2. Ground (GND): Connect the black wire to a clean, unpainted metal surface of the vehicle chassis.
3. Remote (REM): Connect the blue wire to the remote turn-on lead from your head unit or ignition switch.
4. Audio Inputs: Connect the RCA outputs from your head unit (or other audio source) to the ATEQ PK2's INPUT 1 or INPUT 2 jacks.
5. Audio Outputs: Connect the ATEQ PK2's FRONT OUT, REAR OUT, and SUBWOOFER OUTPUT RCAs to the corresponding inputs on your external amplifiers.

7. Operating Instructions

7.1 Initial Setup

1. Turn on your head unit and the ATEQ PK2.
2. Set all equalizer controls (SUB BASS, MID BASS, MID, TREBLE) to their center (flat) position.
3. Adjust the Master Volume (VOL) to a low level.
4. Select the desired input source using the INPUT switch on the front panel or the INPUT LEVEL switch on the top panel.

7.2 Adjusting Audio

• Master Volume (VOL): Use this to control the overall system volume.
• Subwoofer Level (SUB): Adjust this to balance the subwoofer output with the main speakers.
• Fader (FADER): Use this to adjust the balance between front and rear speakers.
• Equalization: Use the SUB BASS, MID BASS, MID, and TREBLE controls to fine-tune the audio frequencies to your preference. Make small adjustments and listen to the effect.
• Crossover Settings: Adjust the SUBWOOFER and FRONT/REAR crossover switches on the top panel to optimize frequency distribution to your amplifiers and speakers. For subwoofers, select a low-pass frequency (e.g., 80Hz). For full-range speakers, select a high-pass frequency (e.g., 80Hz or 120Hz) to prevent them from playing low frequencies handled by the subwoofer.

8. Maintenance

• Keep the unit clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.
• Periodically check all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion.

9. Troubleshooting

10. Specifications

11. Warranty and Support

Autotek products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Autotek website. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Autotek dealer or customer service.

For additional information, you may visit the Autotek Store on Amazon.