1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your MTX TH800.4 Thunder Series 4-Channel 800 Watt Amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or operation to ensure proper use and to prevent damage to the unit or your vehicle's audio system. Keep this manual for future reference.
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect the vehicle's battery before installing or servicing any electrical components.
- Ensure all wiring is properly routed and secured to prevent pinching, cutting, or short-circuiting.
- Use appropriate gauge wiring for power and ground connections as specified in the installation section.
- Mount the amplifier securely in a location that allows for adequate ventilation and is protected from moisture and excessive heat.
- Avoid operating the amplifier at excessively high volumes for prolonged periods to prevent hearing damage and potential speaker damage.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the amplifier's packaging:
- MTX TH800.4 Thunder Series 4-Channel 800 Watt Amplifier
- Dyno Power Rating Certificate
- Allen head wrench for cover removal
- Instruction Manual (this document)
4. Key Features
- 800 Watts RMS Power Output: Delivers substantial power for a robust audio experience.
- Reliable Full-Range Class-D Circuit Design: Ensures efficient power delivery with minimal heat generation.
- Compact Size for Flexible Installation: Designed to fit into various vehicle spaces.
- 10V High-Level Audio Input Compatibility: Allows connection to factory head units without RCA outputs.
- High-Quality Tiffany-Style RCA Input: Provides a secure and high-fidelity signal connection.
- Power and Protection LED Indicator Light: Alerts users to operational status and potential issues (thermal, short, voltage).
- Surface Mount Component Technology: Enhances durability and reduces overall size.
- Direct Insert Power and Speaker Terminals: Simplifies wiring connections.
- Thermal, Short, and Over/Under Voltage Protection: Safeguards the amplifier and connected components.
- Clip Detection Light for Tuning Optimization: Assists in setting optimal gain levels to prevent distortion.
- Dyno Power Rating Certificate Included: Verifies the actual power output of your specific amplifier unit.
5. Controls and Connections
The MTX TH800.4 amplifier features a range of controls and connection points designed for versatile integration into your car audio system.
Figure 1: Top-down view of the MTX TH800.4 amplifier, showcasing its sleek design and the MTX logo.
Figure 2: Rear panel connections including power, ground, remote turn-on, and speaker output terminals. Also visible are the RCA inputs and input mode switch.
5.1 Input/Output Terminals
- Power (+12V): Connect to the positive terminal of the vehicle's battery via an appropriate fuse/circuit breaker.
- REM (Remote Turn-On): Connect to the remote turn-on lead from your head unit.
- GND (Ground): Connect to a solid, unpainted metal point on the vehicle's chassis.
- Speaker Outputs (Front/Rear): Connect to your speakers. Refer to the wiring diagrams for proper impedance matching.
- RCA Inputs (FL, FR, RL, RR): Connect to the RCA pre-outs of your head unit for low-level signal input.
- Input Mode Switch (2CH/4CH): Selects between 2-channel or 4-channel input operation.
5.2 Control Panel (Under Removable Cover)
Figure 3: Side view of the amplifier with the protective cover removed, revealing the tuning controls.
The amplifier's tuning controls are located under a removable cover, secured by small Allen head screws. Use the supplied Allen head wrench to access these controls.
- LPF (Low Pass Filter): Adjusts the upper frequency limit for the output. (50Hz - 250Hz)
- Boost: Adjusts the bass boost level. (0dB - 12dB)
- Subsonic: Sets the lower frequency limit to filter out inaudible low frequencies. (10Hz - 55Hz)
- Phase: Adjusts the phase of the output signal (0° or 180°).
- Gain: Matches the amplifier's input sensitivity to the head unit's output voltage.
- Clip: An indicator light that illuminates when the input or output signal is clipping, indicating distortion.
6. Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your amplifier. If you are unsure about any part of the installation process, consult a professional car audio installer.
6.1 Mounting Location
- Choose a location that is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from direct sunlight or excessive heat.
- Ensure sufficient airflow around the amplifier's heatsink.
- Securely mount the amplifier to a solid surface using appropriate hardware to prevent movement during vehicle operation.
6.2 Wiring Connections
All wiring should be of adequate gauge and properly terminated. Refer to the amplifier's specifications for recommended wire sizes.
- Power Wiring: Run a heavy gauge power cable directly from the vehicle's battery to the amplifier's +12V terminal. Install an inline fuse or circuit breaker within 18 inches of the battery.
- Ground Wiring: Connect a heavy gauge ground cable from the amplifier's GND terminal to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. The ground point should be as short as possible.
- Remote Turn-On: Connect a smaller gauge wire from the head unit's remote output to the amplifier's REM terminal.
- Signal Input: Use high-quality RCA cables to connect the head unit's pre-outs to the amplifier's RCA inputs. If using high-level inputs, connect speaker wires from the head unit to the amplifier's high-level input terminals (if applicable, consult specific model documentation).
- Speaker Wiring: Connect your speakers to the amplifier's speaker output terminals, observing correct polarity. Ensure the total impedance of the connected speakers matches the amplifier's stable operating impedance.
7. Setup and Tuning
Properly tuning your amplifier ensures optimal sound quality and prevents damage. The MTX TH800.4 features accessible controls for fine-tuning your audio system.
Video 1: An overview of the MTX Thunder Series Amplifiers, including a demonstration of the control panel and features. This video highlights the compact size and power output of the amplifiers, as well as the included wired remote for monoblock models and the dyno sheet.
7.1 Gain Setting
- Set the amplifier's gain control to minimum.
- Play a familiar music track with a strong signal at about 75% of your head unit's maximum volume.
- Slowly increase the amplifier's gain control until the Clip indicator light just begins to flicker, then back it off slightly until the light remains off. This ensures maximum clean output without distortion.
7.2 Crossover Settings
- LPF (Low Pass Filter): If driving subwoofers, set the LPF to filter out high frequencies, typically between 80Hz and 120Hz, depending on your subwoofer and enclosure.
- HPF (High Pass Filter): If driving full-range speakers, set the HPF to filter out low frequencies, typically between 80Hz and 120Hz, to prevent distortion and improve clarity.
7.3 Bass Boost and Subsonic Filter
- Bass Boost: Use sparingly. Excessive bass boost can lead to distortion and speaker damage. Adjust to your preference while monitoring the Clip indicator.
- Subsonic Filter: Essential for protecting subwoofers from playing frequencies below their resonant frequency, which can cause damage. Set it just below the lowest frequency your subwoofer can safely reproduce, typically around 20Hz-30Hz.
8. Operating Instructions
Once properly installed and tuned, your MTX TH800.4 amplifier will operate automatically with your vehicle's audio system. The amplifier will turn on when the head unit sends a remote turn-on signal and turn off when the head unit is powered down.
- Ensure all connections are secure before powering on the system.
- Monitor the Power and Protection LED indicators for normal operation (Power LED on, Protection LED off).
- Adjust volume levels from your head unit. Avoid pushing the system into audible distortion.
9. Maintenance
The MTX TH800.4 amplifier requires minimal maintenance to ensure long-term performance.
- Periodically inspect all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion.
- Keep the amplifier clean and free of dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Ensure that the amplifier's heatsink fins are not obstructed to maintain proper cooling.
10. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your amplifier, consult the following troubleshooting guide before contacting support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power / No Sound | Blown fuse, loose power/ground/remote wire, amplifier in protection mode. | Check fuses, verify all power connections, ensure remote wire is connected and receiving 12V. |
| Distorted Sound | Gain set too high, improper crossover settings, speaker impedance mismatch. | Adjust gain using the Clip indicator, verify crossover settings, check speaker impedance. |
| Amplifier Overheating | Insufficient ventilation, impedance too low, prolonged high-volume use. | Ensure proper airflow, check speaker impedance, reduce volume. |
| Protection LED On | Thermal overload, short circuit, over/under voltage. | Allow amplifier to cool, check speaker wiring for shorts, verify vehicle's electrical system voltage. |
11. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the MTX TH800.4 Thunder Series Amplifier:
- Description: 4-Channel Amplifier
- Topology: Full Range Class D
- 4Ω RMS Power Output: 100W x 4 Channels
- 2Ω RMS Power Output: 200W x 4 Channels
- 4Ω RMS Bridged Power Output: 400W x 2 Channels
- THD: <0.2%
- Signal to Noise Ratio: > 98dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20KHz
- Crossover: 40Hz - 400Hz (Front/Rear Selectable HP/LP, Variable 40Hz - 400Hz, 24dB/oct)
- Subsonic Filter: Variable 10Hz - 55Hz, 12dB/oct
- Maximum Input Signal: 10V
- Bass Boost: Variable 0 - 12dB @ 45Hz
- Dimensions (Length x Width x Depth): 9.75” (247mm) x 7” (176mm) x 2” (50mm)
- Weight: 5.69 lbs (2.58 kg)
12. Warranty and Support
The MTX TH800.4 Thunder Series Amplifier comes with a comprehensive warranty and dedicated customer support.
12.1 Warranty Information
This product is covered by a 24-month (2-year) manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
12.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty service, please contact MTX Audio customer support. Visit the official MTX website for the most current contact information and support resources.
You can also visit the MTX Store on Amazon for additional product information and resources.
