Gravity Warzone WZ100ST 10" Active Under Seat Subwoofer Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Gravity Warzone WZ100ST is a compact, active 10-inch subwoofer designed to enhance the audio experience in your vehicle. Its slim profile allows for flexible installation options, such as under seats or behind rear seats, without compromising cabin space. This unit features an integrated amplifier, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying installation. It delivers powerful bass with adjustable controls to fine-tune your sound.

Key Features

• 10" Compact SLIM Under the Seat Subwoofer
• Integrated 1000 Watts Max Power Amplifier
• Wide Frequency Response: 30Hz - 150KHz
• Phase Shift Control to compensate for time alignment issues
• Automatic Power On/Off for high-level connections
• Adjustable Low Pass Filter (LPF) for frequency range control
• Variable Bass Boost (0 to 12 dB) for enhanced low-end
• Wired Remote Control for convenient bass level adjustment
• Durable Aluminum Enclosure for high density and heat dissipation

What's in the Box

• 1 x Gravity Warzone WZ100ST 10" Active Subwoofer Unit
• 1 x Wired Remote Bass Level Control
• 1 x Power Wiring Kit (including power, ground, and remote turn-on wires, and fuse)
• 1 x High-Level Input Adapter (for connecting to factory stereos without RCA outputs)
• Mounting Brackets and Screws
• User Manual

Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. If you are unsure about any steps, consult a professional car audio installer.

1. Choosing a Mounting Location

The slim design of the WZ100ST allows for versatile placement. Ideal locations include:

• Under the driver's or passenger's seat
• Behind the rear seat
• In the trunk (if space is limited elsewhere)

Ensure the chosen location provides adequate ventilation and does not obstruct vehicle controls or passenger movement. Secure the subwoofer using the provided mounting brackets and screws to prevent movement during driving.

Figure 1: Subwoofer installed under a car seat, demonstrating its compact fit.

2. Wiring Connections

The subwoofer requires power, ground, a remote turn-on signal, and an audio input signal. Use the provided wiring kit components.

Power Connection (+12V)

Connect the red power wire from the wiring kit to the +12V terminal on the subwoofer's control panel. Run the other end of this wire directly to the positive terminal of your vehicle's battery. Install the inline fuse holder (with the provided fuse) within 18 inches (45 cm) of the battery for protection.

Ground Connection (GND)

Connect the black ground wire from the wiring kit to the GND terminal on the subwoofer. Secure the other end of the ground wire to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a good metal-to-metal contact for proper grounding.

Remote Turn-On Connection (REM)

Connect the blue remote turn-on wire from the wiring kit to the REM terminal on the subwoofer. The other end of this wire should be connected to a switched 12V source from your head unit (e.g., the remote turn-on lead from your car stereo) or an ignition-switched source. This allows the subwoofer to turn on and off with your vehicle's audio system.

Audio Input Connection

The WZ100ST supports both low-level (RCA) and high-level (speaker wire) inputs.

• Low-Level Input (RCA): If your head unit has RCA outputs, connect RCA cables from the head unit's subwoofer output to the L and R INPUTs on the subwoofer.
• High-Level Input (Speaker Wire): If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, use the provided high-level input adapter. Connect the speaker wires from your head unit's speaker outputs to the corresponding inputs on the adapter, then plug the adapter into the HIGH INPUT connector on the subwoofer. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) to avoid phase issues.

Figure 2: Subwoofer control panel with input and power terminals.

Operating Instructions

1. Initial Power-Up

Once all connections are secure, turn on your vehicle's ignition and audio system. The subwoofer should power on automatically if the "Auto Turn-On" switch is in the ON position and a high-level input is used, or via the remote turn-on signal.

2. Adjusting Controls

The WZ100ST features several controls to optimize sound performance:

• Gain Input (MIN/MAX): Adjusts the input sensitivity to match the output level of your head unit. Start at minimum and slowly increase until desired volume is achieved without distortion.
• Low Pass Filter (LPF) (50Hz-150Hz): Controls the upper frequency limit of the subwoofer. Set it to blend smoothly with your main speakers. A common starting point is around 80-100Hz.
• Bass Boost (0-12dB): Increases the intensity of the bass frequencies. Use sparingly to avoid distortion.
• Phase (0°/180°): Adjusts the phase of the subwoofer's output relative to your main speakers. Experiment with both settings to find the one that provides the most impactful and cohesive bass.
• Subsonic Filter (20Hz fixed): Filters out extremely low frequencies that are inaudible and can cause distortion or damage to the subwoofer. This model has a fixed 20Hz subsonic filter.
• Auto Turn-On (ON/OFF): If using high-level inputs, setting this to ON allows the subwoofer to detect an audio signal and power on automatically. If using RCA inputs or a dedicated remote turn-on wire, set this to OFF.

3. Wired Remote Bass Level Control

The included wired remote allows for convenient adjustment of the subwoofer's bass level from the driver's seat. Install the remote in an easily accessible location that does not interfere with driving. Connect the remote cable to the "REMOTE CONTROL" port on the subwoofer's control panel.

Figure 3: Wired remote bass level control.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Gravity Warzone WZ100ST subwoofer, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the subwoofer's exterior. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or excessive moisture, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the subwoofer's heat sink fins (if visible) are free from dust and debris to maintain proper heat dissipation. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Connections: Periodically check all wiring connections (power, ground, remote, and audio inputs) to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to poor performance or damage.
• Environmental Conditions: Keep the subwoofer away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and excessive moisture. While the aluminum enclosure is durable, it is not waterproof.
• Fuse: If the subwoofer stops functioning, check the 30A fuse located on the control panel. If blown, replace it with a fuse of the same rating (30A). Never use a fuse with a higher rating.

Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your subwoofer, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

No Power / No Indicator Light

• Check Power Connection: Ensure the +12V power wire is securely connected to the battery and the subwoofer.
• Check Ground Connection: Verify the GND wire has a solid, clean connection to the vehicle chassis.
• Check Remote Turn-On: Ensure the REM wire is connected to a switched 12V source and is receiving power when the head unit is on.
• Check Fuse: Inspect the 30A fuse on the subwoofer's control panel. Replace if blown.
• Check Vehicle Battery: Ensure your vehicle's battery has sufficient charge.

No Sound Output

• Check Audio Input: Verify RCA or high-level input cables are securely connected to both the head unit and the subwoofer. Ensure correct polarity for high-level inputs.
• Adjust Gain: Slowly increase the Gain Input control on the subwoofer.
• Check Head Unit Settings: Ensure the subwoofer output is enabled and volume is turned up on your car stereo.
• Check Phase: Experiment with the 0° and 180° phase settings.
• LPF Setting: Ensure the Low Pass Filter is not set too low, which might filter out all audible bass.

Distorted Sound

• Reduce Gain: If the sound is distorted, the Gain Input may be set too high. Reduce it until distortion disappears.
• Reduce Bass Boost: Excessive Bass Boost can cause distortion. Lower the Bass Boost setting.
• Check Head Unit Volume: Ensure the head unit's volume is not set too high, causing distortion before it reaches the subwoofer.
• Check Speaker Wires (High-Level Input): Ensure speaker wires are not frayed or shorting out.

Subwoofer Overheating (Protection LED Red)

• Reduce Volume/Gain: Continuous high-volume operation can cause overheating. Reduce the volume or gain.
• Check Ventilation: Ensure the subwoofer has adequate airflow and its heat sink is not obstructed.
• Check Impedance: Ensure the subwoofer is operating within its specified impedance (4 Ohm).

Specifications

Warranty

The Gravity Warzone WZ100ST subwoofer comes with a Limited Warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging for specific terms and conditions. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Gravity customer support. Refer to the contact information provided in your product documentation or visit the official Gravity website for further assistance.