AudioControl DQ-61: Six-Channel Line Output Converter

Important Safety Instructions

Please read and keep these instructions. Heed all warnings and follow all instructions. Do not use the apparatus near water and clean only with a dry cloth. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid heat sources. Improper installation can lead to injury or death; installation must be done by qualified personnel. Use appropriate gauge wiring for +12V and Ground connections and rubber grommets for wire protection. Only use manufacturer-specified attachments. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. Avoid exposure to liquids and replace fuses only with the correct type and value when the apparatus is powered off. Be cautious of high sound pressure levels that can cause hearing loss.

Warning Symbols:

• Lightning Flash with Arrowhead: Alerts to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage.
• Exclamation Point in Triangle: Alerts to important operating and maintenance instructions.

Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not disassemble the apparatus beyond removing the top panel for control access. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

Recycling Notice: Dispose of this apparatus responsibly by recycling it through a facility equipped for electronic waste. Contact local recycling leaders for assistance.

Key Features

• User-friendly Signal Delay for acoustical alignment of channels.
• Individual equalization controls for front, rear, and subwoofer channels.
• Six channels of active speaker-level inputs (up to 400 watts per channel).
• AccuBASS® processing to correct factory bass roll-off.
• ACR-3 Dash Control Remote for subwoofer level, processing bypass, and delay setup.
• Internal Channel Summing for easy interface with factory amplifiers.
• Discrete Input and Output level controls.
• GTO™ signal sensing inputs for automatic turn-on and 12-volt trigger output.
• Bulletproof 5-year warranty (when installed by an authorized AudioControl dealer).

Quick Installation Information

Mount the DQ-61 in a location accessible for controls and away from spills. Install it in the signal path between your OEM source unit/amplifier and an aftermarket amplifier/processor. Connect factory speaker wires to the DQ-61's speaker-level inputs. If your source unit has front, rear, and subwoofer outputs, connect them accordingly. If only front and rear are available, the AutoMode circuitry routes Channel 2 to subwoofer outputs. Use RCA cables to connect the DQ-61's outputs to your aftermarket amplifier(s). If unsure, consult an authorized AudioControl dealer.

Wiring Connections:

1. Connect +12V power, ground, and turn-on wires.
2. Connect amplifier trigger input to the DQ-61's 12-volt trigger output.
3. Turn amplifier gains down before system power-on.
4. Turn on the system and level match the DQ-61 to source unit and amplifiers.
5. Set Signal Delay Mode to 'Set-Up' on the DQ-61 chassis.
6. Use the ACR-3 Dash Control to adjust signal delay for Left/Right and Front/Subwoofer outputs.
7. Change Signal Delay Mode to 'Normal' on the chassis.
8. Set equalization controls for all channels.
9. Adjust AccuBASS® setting for maximum bass.

After setup, enjoy your enhanced sound system.

Our Bulletproof Warranty

AudioControl Autosound products are designed and assembled in the Pacific Northwest. To ensure optimal results, AudioControl provides extensive training for its dealers and installation teams. If your DQ-61 is installed by an Authorized AudioControl dealer, the warranty is extended to a full FIVE years for parts and labor, compared to the standard one-year warranty.

A Guided Tour of the DQ-61

Speaker-level Inputs: The DQ-61 accepts six speaker-level inputs from factory source units or amplifiers. It intelligently routes signals, including using AutoMode for subwoofer channels when only front and rear signals are present.

Input Level Controls: Adjust input signal levels for optimal performance, accommodating high wattage signals from factory systems.

Equalization Controls: Dedicated controls for Front, Rear, and Subwoofer outputs allow for precise system tuning. Refer to the 'Equalization Optimization' section for detailed guidance.

AccuBASS® Settings: This circuit compensates for factory bass roll-off. Threshold and Level controls determine when the circuit engages and the amount of correction applied.

Signal Delay Mode: Allows setting signal delays via the ACR-3 dash control in 'Set-Up' mode. Turn the knob right for 'Set-Up' mode (blue LED blinks), and left for 'Normal' mode.

Connections:

• Ground: Connect to a verified chassis ground. Avoid using factory ground wires that may be shared by multiple devices.
• +12V Power: Connect to a reliable 12-volt power source.
• Remote In: For installations where GTO™ turn-on is not desired, a +12-volt trigger can be used.
• Remote Out: Provides 12 volts with 1 amp to turn on external devices like processors and amplifiers.
• Maximized Indicator: An LED that indicates signal level just below clipping.
• Power Indicator: An LED that shows the unit is powered on.
• Remote Level Control ACR-3: Used for signal delay adjustments in 'Set-Up' mode and subwoofer level control in 'Normal' mode. It also allows bypassing processing for comparison.
• Pre-Amp Outputs: RCA outputs connect to crossovers or amplifiers. Do not connect speakers directly to the DQ-61.
• Output Level Controls: Knobs to match source unit signal levels to aftermarket amplifiers.
• Channel Summed Indicators: LEDs indicating which channels are summed into the main inputs. Internal jumpers allow channel summing configuration.

Under the Covers - Internal Jumpers

Internal jumpers allow for advanced configuration:

• Output Summing Jumpers: Combine separate, bandwidth-limited signals from factory systems into a single full-range signal for the Front/Main outputs. When set to SUM, the signal also appears on the Channel 2 Output.
• AutoMode: If factory speaker leads have unusual signals that don't trigger AutoMode, this jumper can be set to 'OFF'.
• GTO™ Signal Sense: Bypasses the GTO™ circuit (which turns the system on via speaker signal) by moving the jumper to 'OFF' and using a switched 12-volt signal connected to the Remote In terminal.
• Ground Isolation Selector: Provides alternative grounding connections to mitigate alternator noise caused by different grounding schemes between source units and amplifiers. Shipments are in the isolated position.

Warning: Disconnect power before accessing internal jumpers.

Installation Diagrams

The document includes several installation diagrams illustrating typical setups:

• Typical DQ-61 Installation: Shows connections with AudioControl LC-4.800 4-channel amplifier and LC-1.800 Subwoofer Amplifier.
• Using DQ-61 and The Epicenter: Demonstrates integration with The Epicenter and amplifiers for maximum sound quality and bass.
• Installation with 6XS 6-Channel Crossover: Details the setup using a 6XS crossover and two LC-4.800 amplifiers.

These diagrams visually represent the signal flow from the factory amplifier through the DQ-61 to various AudioControl amplifiers and crossovers.

Signal Delay Operation

The DQ-61's Signal Delay feature corrects acoustical alignment issues caused by speaker placement and seating position. It delays signals to appropriate speakers by milliseconds, ensuring all signals arrive simultaneously for optimal driver alignment.

Setup:

1. Download the DQ-61 Set-Up App or use your ears for setup.
2. Connect power and ground, plug in inputs/outputs, and turn the Signal Delay knob to 'Set-Up' mode (blue LED on ACR-3 blinks).
3. Set initial delay settings to zero: Turn the ACR-3 knob clockwise until mute clicks cease for Left/Right delay. Then, push the ACR-3 knob to switch to 'Sub to Front' and repeat the process.
4. Choose music with clear vocals and limited instruments to help 'move' the sound image.
5. Left/Right Delay: With the blue LED blinking and red LED solid, turn the ACR-3 knob counter-clockwise to add delay to the Left Front Speaker. Mute clicks indicate detents.
6. Front/Subwoofer Delay: With the blue LED blinking and red LED off, turn the ACR-3 knob counter-clockwise to add delay to the front speakers and subwoofer.

Once complete, return the Signal Delay knob on the DQ-61 to 'Normal' mode.

Equalization Optimization

Achieve your desired sound by adjusting equalization. For best results, use a Real-Time Analyzer (RTA) like the AudioControl SA-4140, or consult an authorized dealer. Alternatively, use your ears for tuning.

Process:

1. Play pink noise through the system and analyze the frequency response curve using an RTA placed at the driver's seat.
2. Adjust frequencies to balance the system, aiming for clarity, detail, and punch.
3. Start by cutting or reducing peaks before boosting.

Frequency Bands:

• Sub-bass (100 Hz and below): Crucial for bass response. Aim for 6-9 dB louder than the rest of the system, but avoid forcing speakers beyond their capabilities.
• Midbass (100 Hz to 300 Hz): Transition area. Factory systems often have too much midbass due to speaker resonance, which can mask midrange frequencies.
• Midrange (300 Hz to 3 kHz): Contains vocals and instruments. Keep this range smooth and balanced.
• Treble (3 kHz and Up): High frequencies are the 'frosting'. Many systems have a gradual decline here; avoid excessive boosting which can sound unnatural.

Signal Summing Inputs and Parallel Outputs: The DQ-61 can combine multiple input signals into two channels, creating a high-quality, full-range pre-amp signal. Summing jumpers enable this function, and when active, Front/Main and Rear/Ch2 outputs are paralleled.

AutoMode Inputs: The AutoMode circuit allows the Rear/Channel 2 input signal to automatically feed the Sub/Channel 3 outputs when no signal is present on Channel 3, providing three output channels (Front, Rear, Sub).

Remote Level Control - ACR-3

The ACR-3 remote is used for initial signal delay adjustments in 'Set-Up' mode and for controlling subwoofer output level in 'Normal' mode. It also allows switching the DQ-61's processing (equalization, signal delay, AccuBASS®) in and out of the circuit for comparison.

Placement and Mounting: Mount the ACR-3 dash control within reach of the driver, ensuring LEDs are visible. Disconnect the vehicle battery before installation. Secure with two screws after marking pilot holes.

Custom Installation: The ACR-3 can be flush mounted. Drill appropriate holes in the dashboard for the control, lock tab, and LEDs, taking care not to damage wiring.

Block Diagram of the DQ-61

This diagram serves as an internal 'roadmap' of signal paths within the DQ-61, aiding in troubleshooting and understanding the processor's operation.

AccuBASS®

Factory car audio systems often filter out bass at higher volumes to protect speakers. The AccuBASS® circuit restores this bass response, providing smooth, seamless, rock-solid bass regardless of volume. The accompanying graph illustrates the 'Factory Roll-off' and 'Bass Restored to Flat' curves.

Setting AccuBASS® For Optimum Bass Performance:

1. Set AccuBASS® Level to 12:00 and EQ controls to flat.
2. Turn Threshold all the way down (approx. 7:00).
3. Increase source unit volume until bass starts to drop out.
4. Turn Threshold clockwise until bass returns.
5. Use the Level control to fine-tune bass response.

This ensures smooth bass at all volumes.

The WARRANTY

AudioControl offers a conditional warranty. To be eligible:

1. Register your DQ-61 within 15 days of purchase at audiocontrol.com/warranty.
2. Keep your sales receipt as proof of purchase.
3. The DQ-61 must have been purchased from an authorized AudioControl dealer.
4. Only AudioControl factory or authorized personnel may service the unit; unauthorized service voids the warranty.
5. The warranty is void if the serial number is altered or removed, or if the unit is used improperly (e.g., physical damage, incorrect connections, abuse).

If installed by an authorized dealer, the warranty is five years; otherwise, it is one year. AudioControl may choose to fix or replace the unit.

Legalese Section: This warranty provides specific legal rights that vary by state. It does not imply performance guarantees. AudioControl is not liable for direct or indirect consequential damages. Failure to register warranty information negates service claims.

DQ-61 SPECIFICATIONS

• Power: 14.4 VDC
• Max Speaker-Level Input: 400 watts per channel
• Max Output Level: 7.5 Vrms
• Output Gain: +/-12 dB
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz-22 kHz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.01%
• Input Impedance: 20 Kohms
• Equalization Frequencies: Front/Rear: 125Hz, 175Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz, 8kHz; Sub Output: 31.5Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 63Hz, 80Hz, 100Hz, 125Hz
• Signal Delay: Left/Right Max Delay: 10 ms; Front/Sub Max Delay: 35 ms
• Output Impedance: 150 Ohms
• Power Supply: High headroom PWM switching
• Power Draw: 350 mA
• Recommended Fuse Rating: 2 Amps
• Remote Trigger Max Output Current: 1 Amp
• Size: 8.6"W x 5"D x 1.25"
• Weight: 3 lbs

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