Quantum Audio QEA800.4 4-Channel Amplifier User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 4-Channel Class AB Amplifier. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or operation to ensure optimal performance and safety.

The Quantum QEA800.4 is designed to deliver powerful and clear audio, featuring a maximum power output of 3200 Watts and a high-efficiency MOSFET power supply. It includes variable high-pass and low-pass crossover filters, and an input sensitivity range of 285mV to 6V. Its bridgeable mode allows for flexible configurations, including connecting a subwoofer up to 600 watts at 4 ohms using channels 3 and 4, or channels 1 and 2, or setting up a 2-channel or 3-channel system (channels 1 and 2 for mid-range speakers and channels 3 and 4 bridged for a subwoofer).

Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions when installing and operating your amplifier:

Ensure the vehicle's battery is disconnected before any wiring to prevent electrical shorts.
Install the amplifier in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or moisture.
Use appropriate gauge wiring for power, ground, and speaker connections as specified in this manual.
Protect all wiring from sharp edges and moving parts.
Do not operate the amplifier if it is damaged or malfunctioning. Refer to the troubleshooting section or contact support.
Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance and safety.

Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

Quantum Audio QEA800.4 4-Channel Amplifier
Owner's Manual (this document)
Mounting Screws
Quick Start Guide

Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, box, owner's manual, and mounting screws

Image: Contents of the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 package, including the amplifier, its retail box, the owner's manual, and mounting screws.

Product Overview

The Quantum Audio QEA800.4 is a high-performance 4-channel amplifier designed for car audio systems. Its robust construction and advanced features ensure reliable and powerful sound reproduction.

Amplifier Design

Top-front view of Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier

Image: Top-front angled view of the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, showcasing its black ribbed heatsink and orange end panels. The Quantum Audio logo and "QEA800.4 4 CHANNEL AMPLIFIER" text are visible.

Top view of Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier

Image: Top-down view of the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, highlighting the full length of the black ribbed heatsink and the central Quantum Audio branding.

The amplifier features a durable black ribbed heatsink design for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring stable performance even under demanding conditions. The orange end panels add a distinctive aesthetic.

Control Panel (Input Side)

Input side panel of Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier

Image: Close-up view of the input side panel of the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, showing the RCA inputs for channels 1-4, gain controls, H.P.F. (High Pass Filter) and L.P.F./B.P. (Low Pass Filter/Band Pass) controls, and Bass Boost settings.

This side of the amplifier houses all the audio input connections and sound tuning controls. It includes:

RCA Inputs: Four channels (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4) for connecting your head unit or source.
Gain Controls: Independent gain adjustments for CH1/CH2 and CH3/CH4 to match the output of your source unit.
HPF (High Pass Filter): Adjustable filter (20Hz - 250Hz) for channels 1/2 and 3/4, allowing higher frequencies to pass.
LPF/BP (Low Pass Filter/Band Pass): Adjustable filter (50Hz - 250Hz) for channels 3/4, allowing lower frequencies to pass (LPF) or a specific range (BP).
Bass Boost: Adjustable bass boost (0dB, 6dB, 12dB) for channels 3/4.
Filter Mode Switch: Selects between HPF, FULL, or LPF/BP modes for each channel pair.

Power and Speaker Connections (Output Side)

Output side panel of Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier

Image: Close-up view of the output side panel of the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, showing the power input terminals (GND, REM, +12V), fuse holders, and speaker output terminals for channels 1-4, including bridged mode connections.

This side provides connections for power, ground, remote turn-on, and speaker outputs:

GND (Ground): Connects to the vehicle's chassis ground.
REM (Remote): Connects to the remote turn-on lead from your head unit.
+12V (Power): Connects directly to the vehicle's positive battery terminal via an inline fuse.
Fuses: Integrated fuse holders for protection.
Speaker Output: Terminals for connecting up to four speakers or two speakers in bridged mode.

Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your amplifier. If you are unsure about any steps, consult a professional installer.

Wiring Diagram Overview

Diagram of Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier connections

Image: A simplified diagram illustrating the various connections on the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, including power, ground, remote, RCA inputs, and speaker outputs, along with control knobs.

This diagram provides a visual guide to the amplifier's connection points. Refer to the detailed steps below for specific wiring instructions.

1. Mounting the Amplifier

Choose a secure, dry, and well-ventilated location in your vehicle. Avoid mounting on carpet or in enclosed spaces without airflow.
Ensure there is enough space around the amplifier for proper cooling.
Use the provided mounting screws to secure the amplifier firmly to a solid surface.

2. Power Wiring

Ground (GND): Connect a short (less than 1 meter) heavy-gauge cable from the amplifier's GND terminal to a clean, bare metal point on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure good electrical contact.
Remote (REM): Connect a thin wire from the amplifier's REM terminal to the remote turn-on output of your head unit. This wire turns the amplifier on and off with your stereo.
+12V (Power): Run a heavy-gauge power cable directly from the vehicle's positive battery terminal to the amplifier's +12V terminal. Install an inline fuse holder (not supplied) within 18 inches (45 cm) of the battery. The fuse rating should match the amplifier's total fuse rating.

3. RCA Input Connections

Connect RCA cables from the pre-amp outputs of your head unit to the RCA inputs (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4) on the amplifier.
For a 4-channel setup, connect all four RCA inputs.
For a 2-channel or 3-channel setup, connect the appropriate inputs as per your system design.

4. Speaker Output Connections

Connect your speakers to the speaker output terminals. Observe correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
4-Channel Stereo: Connect one speaker to each channel (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4).
Bridged Mode (for Subwoofer): The amplifier supports bridging channels 1 & 2, and channels 3 & 4. To bridge, connect the subwoofer's positive (+) terminal to the CH3 (+) terminal and the subwoofer's negative (-) terminal to the CH4 (-) terminal. This configuration is ideal for a single subwoofer up to 600 watts at 4 ohms.
Ensure the total impedance of your speakers or subwoofers connected to each channel or bridged pair is within the amplifier's specified operating range (e.g., 2 ohms stereo, 4 ohms bridged).

Operating Instructions

Once installed, follow these steps to configure and operate your amplifier:

1. Initial Power On

After all connections are made, reconnect the vehicle's battery.
Turn on your head unit. The amplifier should power on automatically (indicated by a power LED).
If the protection LED illuminates, refer to the troubleshooting section.

2. Setting Gain Levels

Set all amplifier gain controls to minimum (fully counter-clockwise).
Play a familiar piece of music through your head unit at about 75% of its maximum volume.
Slowly increase the gain control on the amplifier until you hear slight distortion, then back it off slightly until the sound is clear.
Repeat for both gain controls (CH1/CH2 and CH3/CH4).

3. Adjusting Crossover Filters

HPF (High Pass Filter): Use for full-range speakers or tweeters. This filter blocks low frequencies, preventing distortion and improving clarity. Adjust the frequency to suit your speakers (e.g., 80Hz-120Hz for door speakers).
LPF (Low Pass Filter): Use for subwoofers. This filter blocks high frequencies, ensuring only bass notes are reproduced. Adjust the frequency to blend with your main speakers (e.g., 80Hz-100Hz).
FULL: Bypasses the crossover, allowing the full frequency range to pass through.
BP (Band Pass): Allows a specific range of frequencies to pass. This is an advanced setting typically used for specific mid-bass applications.

4. Bass Boost

The Bass Boost control (for CH3/CH4) allows you to enhance low frequencies.
Use sparingly. Excessive bass boost can lead to distortion and potential damage to your speakers or subwoofer.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Quantum Audio QEA800.4 amplifier, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

Cleaning: Periodically wipe the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Ventilation: Ensure that the amplifier's heatsink fins are free from dust and debris. Good airflow is essential for cooling.
Connections: Occasionally check all power, ground, remote, RCA, and speaker connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can cause performance issues or damage.
Fuses: If the amplifier does not power on, check the fuses. Replace blown fuses only with fuses of the same type and rating.

Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your amplifier, consult the following table before contacting support:

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Amplifier does not turn on (Power LED off)	No power to +12V terminal No remote turn-on signal Blown fuse Poor ground connection	Check +12V power wire and inline fuse. Verify remote wire connection to head unit. Replace fuses (same rating). Ensure ground connection is secure and to bare metal.
Protection LED is on	Overheating Speaker short circuit Low impedance load DC offset	Allow amplifier to cool down; check ventilation. Check speaker wires for shorts (bare wire touching). Verify speaker impedance is within specifications. Disconnect speakers and RCA inputs; if LED remains on, amplifier may require service.
No audio output	RCA cables not connected or faulty Speaker wires not connected or faulty Gain set too low Head unit output issue	Check RCA connections and try new cables. Verify speaker wire connections and polarity. Increase gain slowly. Test head unit with another amplifier or speakers.
Distorted sound	Gain set too high Improper crossover settings Poor ground connection Speaker damage	Reduce gain level. Adjust HPF/LPF settings. Improve ground connection. Test speakers with another amplifier.

Specifications

The following are the technical specifications for the Quantum Audio QEA800.4 Amplifier:

Model: QEA800.4
Channels: 4
Amplifier Class: AB
Maximum Power: 3200 Watts
RMS Power x Channel (4 ohms): 180 watts
RMS Power x Channel (2 ohms): 360 watts
RMS Power x Channel (Bridged): 600 watts x 2 (at 4 ohms)
Power Supply Design: High-efficiency MOSFET
Variable Crossover: High-Pass Filter (HPF) and Low-Pass Filter (LPF)
Input Sensitivity: 285mV - 6V
Dimensions (L x W x H): 29.5 x 24.2 x 5 cm (11.6 x 9.5 x 2 inches)
Weight: 2.78 kg (6.13 lbs)
Voltage: 6 Volts (Operating Voltage Range typically 12-14.4V for car audio)

Warranty and Support

Quantum Audio products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Quantum Audio website.

Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims. Do not attempt to repair the amplifier yourself, as this may void the warranty.

For further assistance, please contact Quantum Audio customer service through their official channels.

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