1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the ETON USB 10 AR Active Underseat Subwoofer. This device is designed to provide powerful bass reproduction in a compact form factor, suitable for various vehicles including cars, convertibles, motorhomes, classic cars, and trucks. Its robust construction and integrated amplifier ensure high-quality audio performance. This manual provides essential information for safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your subwoofer.
Image 1: Top view of the ETON USB 10 AR Active Underseat Subwoofer. This image displays the compact design and the speaker grille.
2. Safety Information
Please read all safety instructions carefully before installing and operating the device. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the product.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the vehicle's battery is disconnected before making any electrical connections. Incorrect wiring can cause electrical shorts, fire, or damage to the vehicle's electrical system.
- Professional Installation: If you are unsure about the installation process, seek assistance from a qualified car audio professional.
- Ventilation: Do not block the ventilation openings of the subwoofer. Adequate airflow is necessary to prevent overheating.
- Moisture Exposure: Avoid exposing the unit to water or excessive moisture. This product is not waterproof.
- Secure Mounting: Always secure the subwoofer firmly to prevent it from moving during vehicle operation, which could cause injury in case of sudden stops or accidents.
- Operating Temperature: Do not operate the device outside its recommended temperature range.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- 1x ETON USB 10 AR Active Underseat Subwoofer
- 1x Wired Remote Control
- Mounting Hardware (brackets, screws)
- Connection Accessories (wiring harness)
- 1x Fuse Holder with 10 A Fuse
Image 2: Example of ETON USB series subwoofers with included wired remote control and connection accessories.
4. Product Features
- Compact Design: Space-saving dimensions (36 x 27.2 x 7.7 cm) for underseat installation.
- Robust Construction: Enclosure made of powder-coated die-cast aluminum for durability and optimal heat dissipation.
- Powerful Woofer: 25 cm (10") long-throw woofer with aluminum cone and 2 x 2 ohm dual voice coil.
- Integrated Amplifier: Delivers 150 W RMS / 350 W peak power.
- Versatile Inputs: Features both RCA (low-level) and high-level inputs for compatibility with various car radios, including OEM units without RCA outputs.
- Audio Adjustments: Includes a phase shift switch (0°/180°) and an integrated low-pass filter, adjustable from 50 to 100 Hz.
- Wired Remote Control: For convenient bass level adjustment.
- Start/Stop Compatibility: Designed to work with vehicles equipped with Start/Stop engine functions.
5. Installation Guide
5.1. Placement
The ETON USB 10 AR is designed for underseat installation due to its compact dimensions. Ensure there is at least 77 mm of vertical clearance. Choose a location that does not obstruct vehicle controls or air vents and allows for secure mounting.
5.2. Wiring Connections
Before making any connections, disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
- Power Connection: Connect the main power cable (typically red) to the vehicle's positive battery terminal. Install the provided fuse holder with the 10 A fuse as close to the battery as possible. Connect the ground cable (typically black) to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle chassis.
- Remote Turn-On: Connect the remote turn-on wire (if available from your head unit) to the corresponding terminal on the subwoofer. If your head unit does not have a remote turn-on output, the subwoofer can use its high-level input sensing to turn on automatically.
- Audio Input:
- RCA (Low-Level) Input: If your head unit has RCA pre-outs, connect them to the RCA inputs on the subwoofer.
- High-Level Input: If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, use the high-level input. Connect the speaker wires from your head unit (or vehicle's speaker wiring) to the high-level input terminal block on the subwoofer. Ensure correct polarity.
- Wired Remote Control: Plug the wired remote control into its dedicated port on the subwoofer.
Image 3: Rear panel of the ETON USB 10 AR, illustrating the RCA inputs, high-level input terminal, remote control port, and adjustment knobs for phase, filter, and gain.
5.3. Mounting
Use the provided mounting hardware to securely fasten the subwoofer to the vehicle floor or under the seat. Ensure the mounting location is structurally sound and does not interfere with any vehicle components or wiring.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Initial Power-Up
After all connections are made and verified, reconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal. Turn on your car's audio system. The subwoofer should power on automatically if connected correctly.
6.2. Adjustments
- Gain Control: Use the GAIN knob on the subwoofer or the wired remote control to match the subwoofer's output level with your main audio system. Start with the gain at minimum and slowly increase it until the bass blends well with the rest of your speakers without distortion.
- Low-Pass Filter (LPF): The LPF knob allows you to set the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer, adjustable from 50 Hz to 100 Hz. Adjust this to ensure the subwoofer only reproduces low frequencies and blends seamlessly with your main speakers.
- Phase Shift (0°/180°): Use the PHASE switch to adjust the phase of the subwoofer's output. Listen to the bass response from your listening position. If the bass sounds weak or hollow, try switching the phase to 180°. Choose the setting that provides the strongest and most impactful bass.
- Wired Remote Control: This remote allows for convenient adjustment of the bass level from the driver's seat without needing to access the subwoofer directly.
Image 4: Side view of the ETON USB 10 AR subwoofer alongside its wired remote control, used for convenient bass level adjustments.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the subwoofer. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Connection Check: Periodically check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the subwoofer's ventilation areas remain clear of obstructions to prevent overheating.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power to the subwoofer | Blown fuse; loose power/ground connection; no remote turn-on signal. | Check and replace fuse (10A); verify power and ground connections; ensure remote turn-on wire is connected or high-level input is active. |
| No sound from the subwoofer | Low gain setting; incorrect audio input connection; phase issue; head unit settings. | Increase gain; check RCA/high-level input connections and polarity; try switching phase (0°/180°); ensure head unit's subwoofer output is enabled. |
| Distorted or poor sound quality | Gain set too high; incorrect LPF setting; poor input signal; loose speaker wires. | Reduce gain; adjust LPF (50-100 Hz) for optimal blend; ensure clean audio signal; check all speaker wire connections. |
| Subwoofer turns on/off intermittently | Loose power/ground connection; overheating; faulty remote turn-on signal. | Check power and ground connections; ensure adequate ventilation; verify remote turn-on signal stability. |
9. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | USB 10 AR |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 36 x 27.2 x 7.7 cm |
| Weight | 6.95 kg |
| Rated Power (RMS) | 150 W |
| Max Output Power | 350 W |
| Speaker Size / Diameter | 25 cm (10 inches) |
| Impedance | 2 x 2 ohms |
| Frequency Response | 50 Hz (Lower limit, adjustable via LPF up to 100 Hz) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 91 dB |
| Connectivity Technology | RCA, High-Level Input |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Mounting Type | Seat Mount |
| Material | Powder-coated die-cast aluminum |
| Control Device Type | Wired Remote Control |
| Water Resistance Level | Not waterproof |
| Power Source | Electric Cable |
| Country of Origin | China |
10. Warranty and Support
The ETON USB 10 AR Active Underseat Subwoofer comes with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact your retailer for specific warranty terms and conditions.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or inquiries regarding parts and service, please contact your authorized ETON dealer or visit the official ETON website for contact information.