PrecisionPower Component Speakers

Introduction

Thank you for choosing PrecisionPower™ automotive component loudspeakers. These reference quality speakers combine acoustic excellence achieved from 25 years of loudspeaker research and development, with innovative and timeless industrial design, and cutting-edge material choices. Tuned for precise reproduction of the supplied musical signal, they accurately deliver every nuance and detail while retaining the classic "PrecisionPower™ sound" that has enchanted multiple generations of owners. With a minimum of care, this high-performance component speaker system will deliver years of trouble-free satisfaction.

About This Manual

To achieve optimum performance from your PrecisionPower™ automotive component loudspeakers, we recommend that you read this manual thoroughly before installation and use. For the best results and support, please consult with your local authorized PrecisionPower™ retailer. Technical support is also available from PrecisionPower™ at 1-800-753-0800 selection 3. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.

Features

• Molded woofer basket: Provides proper alignment and support structure for the magnet and moving parts, with thin braces to minimize early reflections off the basket that could cause sonic colorations.
• Woofer cone: Features an interlaced Aramid Fiber (Kevlar) with Mica and fiberglass mixture in an IMPP (Injection Molded Poly Propylene) base, offering a combination of rigidity and low moving mass for ultra-low distortion and superior transient response.
• Vented voice coil: Magnet cooling vent construction enhances power handling capabilities. The voice coil uses copper-clad aluminum wire to minimize weight and increase efficiency and low-frequency response.
• Extended center pole: Woofer magnet geometry provides a symmetrical magnetic pattern to reduce THD.
• Tweeter: Ultra-light silk dome design treated with polymer compound to control non-linear resonances.
• Multi-mount tweeter: Supplied with mounting options including surface, angled surface, flush, or angled flush for the ferrofluid-cooled neodymium tweeter.
• Tweeter level control: A three-position switch adjusts tweeter volume relative to the midrange.
• Tweeter phase switch: A two-position switch allows 180° or 0° phase difference between tweeters and midranges.
• Midrange contour control: A two-position switch offers frequency response correction for flat response on-axis or off-axis in the car.
• Bi-amplifiable/bi-wirable: The passive crossover supports bi-amplifiable or bi-wirable configurations, typically found in high-quality audiophile home loudspeakers.
• Solid state tweeter protection: Advanced circuitry protects the tweeter from overpowering or amplifier clipping.

Cautions

• Study your automobile thoroughly before drilling or cutting any holes. Exercise extra care near gas tanks, gas lines, brake or hydraulic lines, and electrical wiring.
• Wear eye and ear protection when using power tools. Keep woofers and tweeters away from metal filings and shavings. Foreign objects stuck to magnets or tweeter domes are difficult to remove. Keep tweeters in protective bags until final mounting to prevent metal dust or chips from accumulating on the dome.
• Exercise caution when working with the CS series with the grille removed. A slip of the hand with a screwdriver or tool can cause irreparable damage to the cone or dome. Do not touch the cone or dome.
• Do not install components where they will be subject to excessive heat, moisture, or dust, or where they will be kicked or repeatedly bumped or brushed.
• Ensure the woofer is connected to the low-pass output and the tweeter to the high-pass output of the crossover network. Reversed connections may feed low-frequency signals to the tweeter without fuse protection, potentially damaging it (damage not covered by warranty).
• When removing or installing grills, be careful not to brush the woofer's rubber surround or the tweeter's dome with the grille edge. Cutting or tearing the surround or dome will destroy the unit.
• Never run wires outside or beneath the vehicle where they can be snagged by road hazards or moving parts. Use existing wire channels, sills, panels, and molding strips inside the automobile for neatness and safety.
• Ensure your radio/cassette/CD player and other equipment are turned off while connecting speaker terminals. Turn on components and slowly advance the volume control only after checking all connections.
• NOTE: If sound is weak or distorted, immediately turn down the volume and consult the Troubleshooting section.

Installation Planning

Proper installation planning is key to maximizing performance. Careful planning helps avoid situations that compromise system performance or reliability. Consult your authorized PrecisionPower™ dealer or PrecisionPower™ audio technical support (1-800-753-0800 selection 3) for assistance in maximizing your speakers' sonic potential.

Amplifier Requirements

This speaker system requires a minimum of 45 watts per channel for reasonable listening volumes in a moving automobile without amplifier clipping. PrecisionPower™ recommends a maximum of 150 watts per channel to avoid exceeding the thermal or mechanical limitations of the speaker system. Amplifiers between 45 and 150 watts are suitable. Use caution with amplifiers exceeding 150 watts, as speaker damage may occur at high volume settings. PrecisionPower™ loudspeakers produce reasonable volume levels with moderate amplifier power. Using a low-powered amplifier to achieve very high volumes can lead to overdriving the amplifier and damaging the speaker system. Avoid turning the volume up past the point of distortion on musical peaks or mechanical noise from the speaker. For best performance and reliability, select an amplifier with slightly more power than you anticipate needing. This reserve power ensures the amplifier is not routinely driven beyond its design limits.

WARNING: Excessive sound pressure level can permanently damage your hearing. The maximum volume levels attainable with PrecisionPower™ speakers, combined with high-power amplification, may exceed safe levels for extended listening.

Mounting Locations

Vehicle factory locations often dictate woofer mounting positions. Due to its small size and multiple mounting options, the tweeter can be placed almost anywhere. PrecisionPower™ uses a low crossover frequency for the tweeter, allowing it to be mounted up to 24 inches (60 cm) from the midrange speaker without adverse effects on sound quality. However, better results are typically achieved by mounting tweeters and midranges relatively close to each other, and by keeping sound path lengths between the listener and left/right speakers as equal as possible.

PrecisionPower™ cannot recommend specific tweeter mounting locations for every vehicle. Generally, try to mount tweeters as far to the sides of the car as practical. Avoid placing them above ear level unless the woofers are also above ear level. Place tweeters in similar locations on both sides of the vehicle. Experiment by temporarily placing or taping the tweeter in various locations and listening to ensure the desired stereo image and high-frequency dispersion are achieved before drilling holes. Experiment with the tweeter phase switch settings to find the most effective combination of location and phase.

Specifications

Crossover Features and Connections

The crossover unit includes several adjustable features:

• Midrange Contour Switch: Offers 'Demo' or 'Car' positions to adjust midrange-woofer frequency response. The 'Car' position is recommended for most applications.
• Bi-amp/Parallel Switch: Select 'Bi-amp' if using separate amplifiers for woofers and tweeters (four channels). Select 'Parallel' if using a single amplifier for both (two channels).
• Tweeter Level Switch: A three-position switch (0, +3dB, -3dB) adjusts the tweeter's output level relative to the midrange. Position 0 provides equal output, +3dB provides more tweeter output, and -3dB provides less.
• Tweeter Phase Switch: A two-position switch (0° or 180°) sets the phase relationship between the tweeters.
• Tweeter Thermal Breaker: Protects the tweeter from excessive power. If activated, the tweeter will briefly stop producing sound until the breaker automatically resets.
• Tweeter DC Clip Protector: Limits current to the tweeter if overdriven by excess amplification or clipped signals.

Diagram Description (Crossover): The crossover unit features input terminals labeled 'IN' and output terminals labeled 'OUT'. Connections are shown for Tweeter and Woofer. Switches are labeled: Midrange Contour Switch (demo/car), Parallel Bi-amp Switch (p/b), Tweeter Level Switch (0/-3/+3), and Tweeter Phase Switch (180°/0°). A Tweeter Thermal Breaker and Tweeter DC Clip Protection are also indicated.

Speaker Wiring

Speaker wire selection

Use insulated two-conductor stranded wire. Wire size affects system performance. 18-gauge "zip cord" is functional but may result in lower output or unpredictable frequency response. For wire runs of 50 feet (15 m) or less, 16-gauge or larger wire is recommended. The crossover connector accepts up to 14-gauge wire.

Polarity and phasing

Ensure consistent positive/negative orientation for all speaker and amplifier connections to maintain proper phasing. Reversed polarity can reduce bass output and degrade stereo imaging. Most speaker wire is marked with ribs, a stripe, or different conductor colors (e.g., copper and silver) to identify conductors. The supplied speaker wire has a white stripe to indicate the positive (+) conductor.

Termination

Woofers use an angled locking screw connection. Tweeters have molded connectors (male and female). Use supplied wire with insulated connectors to extend tweeter wires to the crossover. Soldering and insulating with heat shrink tubing is an alternative.

Speaker Installation

Woofer installation

Woofers fit many standard factory mounting locations using existing holes. Remove trim panels and inspect locations before cutting or drilling. Removing panels also facilitates easier wiring routing. Look for original equipment speaker cutouts that require minimal modification. Use the supplied template to mark holes.

If installing in a door panel, ensure the speaker does not interfere with the window lowering mechanism and that speaker wires clear all moving parts inside the door.

For each woofer, cut one large hole and drill small holes around its circumference for mounting screws. If the mounting surface has carpet or fabric, cut it away from the hole locations to prevent tangling in the drill bit or cutting blade. Drill speaker mounting screw holes with a 1/8" (3 mm) drill bit for the provided screws.

Clean work areas of all filings and shavings with a vacuum cleaner before mounting the woofer.

Woofer mounting

Route speaker wire from the woofer location to the crossovers. Pull wire through the installation hole and attach terminals to speaker connections, referring to the speaker wiring section and diagrams. Push excess wire back behind the installation location, ensuring it does not interfere with the speaker or any mechanisms.

Attach the supplied foam gasket strip to the speaker's mounting surface to ensure an airtight seal for optimal bass performance.

Install speakers by gradually tightening mounting screws until well seated, taking care not to over-tighten.

Tweeter installation

The system offers five tweeter mounting options: coaxial, surface, surface angle, flush, and angled flush mount. Refer to specific sections for details.

Coaxial mount

These components can be used as coaxial speakers, allowing the tweeter to be placed in the woofer's center without obstructing the voice coil or woofer function.

CAUTION: Use care not to damage the speaker cone during installation.

Unscrew and remove the center bullet from the threaded mounting post by turning it counterclockwise. Retain the bullet for future use.

Diagram Description (Coaxial Mount): Shows a tweeter with wires, a coaxial extension, mounting slots, and mounting tabs. The process involves feeding tweeter wires through the extension, installing the tweeter into mounting slots, and turning counterclockwise to lock. The coaxial tweeter assembly is then threaded onto the woofer's central post and rotated clockwise until snug. Connect tweeter wires to the crossover output.

The woofer should be rotated before final mounting so the tweeter points towards the listener's ear location.

Surface mount (Straight or Angled)

Preparation involves drilling three holes: two for mounting screws spaced 15/16" (24 mm) apart, and a third 1/4" (7 mm) hole for the wire. Use the provided template to locate hole centers. Cut carpeting or fabric away from hole locations to prevent fiber tangling.

Diagram Description (Surface Mount): Shows mounting slots and #6 x 3/4" screws. Insert screws through the surface mount cup, screw it into place ensuring straight, flush heads. Slide the tweeter into the cup (tabs aligned with slots) and turn counterclockwise to lock.

An angled surface mounting cup is also supplied for optimum acoustic angle. Follow the same procedure.

Flush mount (Surface or Angled)

Ensure sufficient clearance within the interior door panel for mounting screws. Reduce screw length if necessary.

Diagram Description (Flush Mount): Shows a metal mounting bracket, mounting slots, M4-0.7 x 4-1/2 cm screws, and a flush angled mounting cup. Check for sufficient depth behind the mounting surface (minimum 1" or 25 mm). The front cup mounts through a 1-7/8" (48 mm) diameter hole, not exceeding 2-1/8" (55 mm).

Use the template to locate hole centers. Cut carpeting or fabric away from hole locations to prevent fiber tangling in the saw blade.

Insert two M4-0.7 X 4-1/2 cm screws through mounting holes and start threads into the metal mounting bracket. Attach the bracket to the mounting cup, slide one end into the hole, then the other. Hold the cup in position and tighten screws, but do not over-tighten.

Slide the tweeter into the mounting cup (tabs aligned with slots) and turn counterclockwise to lock.

An angled surface mounting cup is also supplied for optimum acoustic angle. Follow the same procedure.

Tweeter mounting

Route wire from the crossover to the tweeter location. Pull wire through the hole and attach crossover wires to tweeter wires. Connect the positive wire (marked with white trace) to the tweeter's positive (+) terminal. Ensure wires do not interfere with the speaker or anything behind the mounting panel. Align tabs in the mounting cup with relieved areas in the tweeter mount to attach the tweeter.

Diagram Description (Tweeter Mounting): Shows a tweeter, mounting screws, surface mount housing, panel, and wiring.

Diagram Description (Flush Mount): Shows a tweeter, bolts, panel, bracket, tweeter wire, flush mount housing, and wiring.

NOTE: The tweeter grill can be removed for coaxial applications or to mount the tweeter behind an existing factory grill. Use the supplied black butyl material to attach the tweeter grill for other applications.

Crossover Installation

The system supports conventional wiring, bi-wiring, or bi-amping using the supplied passive crossovers. Conventional (parallel mode) wiring provides excellent sound; bi-wiring or bi-amping may further enhance performance in no-compromise systems.

• Bi-wiring: Uses separate speaker wires for high and low frequencies between an amplifier channel and crossover. This allows choice of wire with different sonic characteristics and reduces overall wiring resistance. Most beneficial when the crossover is mounted far from the amplifier.
• Bi-amping: Uses a separate amplifier channel for high-frequency and low-frequency sections. This allows fine-tuning via amplifier level controls and can help protect the tweeter from amplifier clipping. When bi-amping with passive crossovers, bypass the midrange low-pass filter and tweeter high-pass filter on the amplifier or external active crossover.

Route wires from woofer and tweeter to the crossover mounting location. The location should be accessible for wire connection and switch adjustment. If mounting in an inaccessible location, make connections and adjustments before final installation. Ensure adequate clearance for cover removal and replacement.

To mount the crossover, remove its top cover by grasping the front and back, compressing slightly, and lifting off the bottom. Mount the crossover using four holes in a rectangular pattern (2 13/16" x 4 1/4" or 7.14 cm x 10.8 cm) on a flat surface. Use the crossover as a template for drilling.

Align mounting holes in the crossover's bottom half with drilled holes. Pass four #6 x 1 1/4" screws through the crossover unit and tighten until firm. Do not over-tighten, especially on uneven surfaces.

Connecting the system

After all connections and adjustments are made, snap the cover back in place.

Trim speaker wire as needed. Strip about 1/4" (6 mm) of insulation from ends. Twist exposed strands to prevent shorts. "Tinning" with a soldering iron is optional. Attach wires to the removable connector, ensuring screws face the bottom of the crossover. Insert prepared wire into the appropriate location on the connector strip and tighten screws, noting polarity markings on the circuit board.

Crossover Connections and Input Switch Setting

Route wires from crossover input terminals to the power amplifier outputs as recommended by the amplifier manufacturer. Ensure no stray wire strands that could cause a short circuit. Observe left/right polarity markings.

Diagram Description (Standard/Parallel): Shows an amplifier connected to the crossover's 'IN' terminals (Tweeter and Woofer). The crossover's 'OUT' terminals connect to the Tweeter and Woofer. The Bi-amp/Parallel switch is shown in the 'Parallel' position.

NOTE: In this configuration, the amplifier (+) can connect to either the tweeter (+) or woofer (+) terminal, and the amplifier (-) to either the tweeter (-) or woofer (-) terminal. The parallel switch ensures both halves of the crossover receive signal if at least one input terminal is connected.

Bi-amplifier Connections to Crossover

Connections from the crossover to the woofer and tweeter are the same as normal wiring. Connect the tweeter amplifier to the "Tweeter In" terminals and the woofer amplifier to the "Woofer In" terminals.

NOTE: The selectable switch must be moved to the 'Bi-amp' position. Incorrect switch setting may damage amplifiers or the crossover.

Diagram Description (Bi-Amplified): Shows separate Tweeter Amplifier and Woofer Amplifier connected to the crossover's 'IN' terminals. The Bi-amp/Parallel switch is shown in the 'Bi-amp' position.

Bi-wire Connections to Crossover

Connections from the crossover to the woofer and tweeter are the same as normal wiring. Connect the amplifier to the tweeter input terminals with one wire run, and to the woofer input terminals with another wire run.

NOTE: The Bi-amp/parallel switch must be moved to the 'Parallel' position. Incorrect setting will not cause damage but may affect bi-wiring sound enhancement.

Diagram Description (Bi-Wired): Shows an amplifier connected to the crossover's 'IN' terminals (Tweeter and Woofer) via separate runs. The Bi-amp/Parallel switch is shown in the 'Parallel' position.

Troubleshooting

Warranty

LIMITED ONE-YEAR CONSUMER WARRANTY / LIMITED TWO-YEAR CONSUMER WARRANTY FOR AUTHORIZED DIRECTED DEALER PURCHASE & INSTALLATION

Directed Electronics ("Directed") promises to the original purchaser to repair or replace, at its sole discretion, this product if it proves defective in workmanship or material under normal use. The warranty period is *two years from the date of purchase from an authorized Directed dealer, PROVIDED the product was purchased and installed by an authorized dealer. During this period, there will be no charge for repair or replacement if the unit is returned to Directed, shipping prepaid, with proof of installation, bill of sale or other dated proof of purchase, and consumer contact information.

If the unit is installed by anyone other than an authorized Directed dealer, the warranty period is one year from the date of purchase. This warranty is non-transferable and does not apply to units modified or used contrary to their intended purpose, nor does it cover damage from installation or removal.

This warranty is void if the product is damaged by accident, unreasonable use, neglect, improper service, or causes not arising from defects in materials or construction. It does not cover elimination of static/noise, antenna problems, weak reception, damage to speakers/accessories/electrical systems, cosmetic damage, negligence, misuse, failure to follow instructions, spills, customer-applied cleaners, environmental causes (floods, chemicals, salt, hail, lightning, extreme temperatures), accidents, road hazards, fire, theft, loss, vandalism, improper connections to other manufacturers' equipment, modifications, or units opened/tampered with. Thermally damaged voice coils due to abuse are not covered but may be replaced at Directed's discretion.

Units must be returned to Directed, postage pre-paid, with bill of sale or dated proof of purchase including: consumer name, phone number, address, authorized dealer name/address, and product description. Send to: ATTN: WARRANTY DEPARTMENT, Directed Electronics, 1 Viper Way, Vista, CA 92081. Labor costs for removal and reinstallation are not covered.

For the TWO-YEAR WARRANTY to be valid, proof of installation by an authorized Directed Dealer is required. Units received without this proof will be covered by the LIMITED 1 YEAR WARRANTY.

By purchasing this product, all warranties, including express, implied, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement of intellectual property, are expressly excluded to the maximum extent allowed by law. Directed assumes no liability for acts of third parties, including dealers or installers. Directed is not liable for incidental, special, or consequential damages (including loss of profits).

Purchasing this product signifies agreement that all disputes will be resolved under California laws in San Diego County, California. This warranty is valid for products sold within the United States of America. Products sold outside the USA are "AS-IS" with no warranty. Some states may not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or exclusion of incidental/consequential damages, so these limitations may not apply to you. This Limited Warranty grants specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state.

920-0033 Rev 02-07

DEI™ is a proud member of ISO 9001. Directed Electronics is an ISO 9001 registered company. Designed and Engineered in the USA by Directed ELECTRONICS, INC.

To find out more about other Precision Power products, please visit: www.precisionpower.com

©2007 Directed Electronics. All rights reserved. G39302.07 2007-09