1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your PowerBass PBX-1200.5 Full Range Digital Amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to install or operate the amplifier to ensure proper function and to prevent damage to the unit or your vehicle's audio system. Retain this manual for future reference.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Improper installation or use of this amplifier can result in serious injury or property damage. Always follow these safety guidelines:
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery negative terminal before starting any electrical work.
- Ensure all wiring is properly routed and secured to prevent pinching or damage.
- Use appropriate gauge wiring for power and ground connections as specified in the installation section.
- Install the amplifier in a location that allows for adequate ventilation and is protected from moisture and excessive heat.
- Do not operate the amplifier if it is damaged or malfunctioning.
- Seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any installation steps.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- PowerBass PBX-1200.5 Amplifier
- User Manual (this document)
- Mounting Hardware (screws, brackets, etc.)
- Wired Secondary Remote Gain Control
4. Product Overview and Features
The PowerBass PBX-1200.5 is a high-efficiency full-range Class D amplifier designed for robust audio performance in a vehicle environment. It features advanced circuitry and user-friendly controls for optimal sound customization.
Figure 4.1: Top-down view of the PowerBass PBX-1200.5 amplifier, showcasing its sleek black casing and central illuminated logo.
Key Features:
- Powerful and Efficient Design: 1,200-watt high-efficiency full-range Class D design for substantial power output with minimal energy consumption.
- Versatile and Stable Operation: 2-ohm stable five-channel amplifier with a double-sided copper-plated PCB and PWM MOSFET power supply. High current voltage ripple rejection circuitry minimizes voltage fluctuations.
- Advanced Audio Customization: Digital sound optimization circuitry, high damping control circuit, and variable subsonic filter. Includes a 40-click variable detente high/low pass electronic crossover and 40-click variable detente bass boost at 45 Hz.
- User-Friendly Features: Front load terminal design, balanced RCA inputs, selectable auto turn-on circuit, remote soft delay turn-on/off circuit, wired secondary remote gain control, and a calibrated visual clip indicator.
- Comprehensive Protection: Robust protection circuit safeguards against impedance overload, speaker short circuits, thermal overheating, and DC output.
Figure 4.2: Close-up view of the RCA input jacks for channels 1 through 5 on the amplifier, labeled CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4, CH5.
Figure 4.3: Detailed view of the control panel, showing adjustable gain, high-pass filter (HPF), and subsonic filter settings for precise audio tuning.
5. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your amplifier. If you are not comfortable with the installation process, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
5.1 Mounting Location
- Choose a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Ensure the mounting surface is sturdy enough to support the amplifier's weight.
- Allow at least 2 inches (5 cm) of clearance around the amplifier for proper heat dissipation.
5.2 Wiring Connections
Before making any connections, disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
- Power (B+): Connect a heavy-gauge power cable (e.g., 4 AWG or larger, depending on total system power) directly from the positive terminal of the vehicle's battery to the amplifier's B+ terminal. Install an appropriate fuse holder within 18 inches (45 cm) of the battery.
- Ground (GND): Connect a heavy-gauge ground cable of the same size as the power cable from the amplifier's GND terminal to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle chassis. Ensure a solid, low-resistance connection.
- Remote Turn-On (REM): Connect a remote turn-on wire (typically 18 AWG) from your head unit's remote output to the amplifier's REM terminal. This wire signals the amplifier to turn on and off with the head unit.
- RCA Inputs: Connect RCA cables from your head unit's pre-amp outputs to the corresponding RCA input jacks on the amplifier (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4, CH5).
- Speaker Outputs: Connect speaker wires from the amplifier's speaker output terminals to your speakers. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) for each speaker. Refer to your speaker's impedance rating and the amplifier's specifications to ensure compatibility (2-ohm stable operation).
6. Operating Instructions
Once the amplifier is installed and all connections are secure, you can proceed with initial setup and adjustments.
6.1 Initial Power-Up
- Reconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
- Turn on your head unit. The amplifier should power on, indicated by its illuminated logo or power indicator.
- Start with all gain controls on the amplifier set to minimum (fully counter-clockwise).
6.2 Gain Adjustment
The gain control matches the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output of your head unit. It is NOT a volume control.
- Play a familiar piece of music with a strong signal at a moderate volume level on your head unit (around 75% of maximum).
- Slowly increase the gain control on the amplifier until you hear distortion, then back it off slightly until the sound is clear.
- Utilize the calibrated visual clip indicator to assist in setting the gain without distortion.
6.3 Crossover Settings (HPF/LPF)
The PBX-1200.5 features variable high-pass (HPF) and low-pass (LPF) electronic crossovers to direct specific frequency ranges to your speakers.
- High-Pass Filter (HPF): Used for full-range or component speakers to block low frequencies that they cannot reproduce effectively. Adjust the HPF to a frequency above the speaker's resonant frequency (e.g., 80 Hz for most component speakers).
- Low-Pass Filter (LPF): Used for subwoofers to block high frequencies. Adjust the LPF to a frequency that blends well with your main speakers (e.g., 80-120 Hz).
6.4 Subsonic Filter
The variable subsonic filter helps protect subwoofers by removing extremely low frequencies that are inaudible and can cause damage. Set it slightly below your LPF setting, typically between 20-30 Hz.
6.5 Bass Boost
The 40-click variable detente bass boost at 45 Hz allows for enhancing low-frequency output. Use sparingly to avoid distortion and speaker damage. Adjust to taste, ensuring the sound remains clean.
6.6 Wired Secondary Remote Gain Control
Connect the wired remote gain control to the amplifier to allow for convenient adjustment of the subwoofer channel's output level from the driver's seat.
7. Maintenance
The PowerBass PBX-1200.5 amplifier requires minimal maintenance to ensure long-term performance.
- 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 cooling fins are free from dust and debris to maintain proper airflow.
- Connections: Occasionally check all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion. Loose connections can lead to poor performance or damage.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your amplifier, refer to the following common problems and solutions before contacting support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power / Amplifier Not Turning On |
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| No Sound Output |
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| Distorted Sound |
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| Amplifier Overheating (Protection Mode) |
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9. Specifications
Technical specifications for the PowerBass PBX-1200.5 Full Range Digital Amplifier:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PBX-1200.5 |
| Total Power Output | 1200 Watts (Max/Peak) |
| Amplifier Class | Class D (Full Range) |
| Channels | 5-Channel (4 Full-Range + 1 Subwoofer) |
| Minimum Impedance | 2 Ohm Stable |
| Item Weight | 10 pounds (4.54 kg) |
| Package Dimensions | 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm) |
| Manufacturer | PowerBass |
10. Warranty and Support
Warranty: The PowerBass PBX-1200.5 amplifier comes with a 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
Support: For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty service, please contact PowerBass customer support. Refer to the official PowerBass website for current contact information.
Manufacturer: PowerBass
