VIBE BlackBox Amplifiers: Owner's Manual and Product Information
This document provides comprehensive information for VIBE BlackBox amplifiers, including the Stereo 2, Stereo 4, and Bass 1 models. It covers installation, setup, troubleshooting, specifications, and a range of VIBE audio accessories.
Welcome to VIBE BlackBox Amplifiers
Congratulations on purchasing your VIBE BlackBox amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly to understand how to achieve the best results from your amplifier. Ensure all advice on amplifier care is followed. VIBE hopes you enjoy your product as much as they enjoyed creating it.
Mounting Guidelines
Your VIBE amplifier is designed for straightforward installation. Mount the amplifier in a dry location on a solid surface. Never mount the amplifier upside down, as this can cause overheating and damage. Ensure sufficient airflow (at least two inches) around the exterior of the casing before fixing it in place.
Connections and Wiring
Ground Cable
The ground cable must carry the same current as the power cable. An 8-gauge cable is recommended. Connect the amplifier ground directly to the vehicle's chassis (bare metal). Keep the cable length to an absolute minimum. Avoid connecting to seatbelt anchor points.
Remote Turn On
A minimum 18-gauge cable is required for this connection. Run this cable with the same care as the power cable, connecting it to the source unit's (headunit) remote cable. If the headunit lacks a remote turn-on cable, a 12V supply can be used, but a switch should be fitted inline to prevent battery drain when the amplifier is off.
RCA Cables
Depending on your amplifier model and speaker configuration, you will need one or two RCA cables from the source to the amplifier. Route these cables carefully, away from potential sources of interference like wiring harnesses. It is recommended to run RCA cables on the opposite side of the car from power cables to minimize interference.
Power Cable
An 8-gauge cable is recommended for both power and ground connections. The power cable should connect directly to the battery. Use rubber grommets when passing cables through bulkheads to prevent chaffing or cutting. A fuse or circuit breaker, rated at least equal to the amplifier's fuse, must be installed inline with the power cable, no more than eighteen inches from the battery. Ensure the fuse is not fitted until the installation is complete.
Cable Gauge Selection
The following tables help determine the correct cable size based on current demand and length, and convert between American Wire Gauge (AWG) and metric measurements.
| Current demand | Length of Run | 0-4 Ft | 4-7 Ft | 7-10 Ft | 10-13 Ft | 13-16 Ft | 16-19 Ft | 19-22 Ft | 22-28 Ft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-20 amps | 14 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
| 20-35 amps | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4 | |
| 35-50 amps | 10 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | |
| 50-65 amps | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | |
| 65-85 amps | 6 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 | |
| 85-105 amps | 6 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 | |
| 105-125 amps | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| 125-150 amps | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| AWG Number | Inch | mm | mm² (cross sectional area) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0.325 | 8.25 | 53.5 |
| 1 | 0.289 | 7.35 | 42.4 |
| 2 | 0.258 | 6.54 | 33.6 |
| 3 | 0.229 | 5.83 | 26.7 |
| 4 | 0.204 | 5.19 | 21.1 |
| 5 | 0.182 | 4.62 | 16.8 |
| 6 | 0.162 | 4.11 | 13.3 |
| 7 | 0.144 | 3.66 | 10.5 |
| 8 | 0.128 | 3.26 | 8.36 |
| 9 | 0.114 | 2.91 | 6.63 |
| 10 | 0.102 | 2.59 | 5.2 |
VIBE BlackBox Stereo 2 Amplifier
Connections and Controls
The amplifier features various input and output terminals and control knobs:
- 1. HI Input: High-level input for connecting to speakers when RCA outputs are unavailable. Uses a provided loom.
- 2. Low Level Input / Output: RCA inputs for low-level signals from a source unit. Also serves as a low-level output for daisy-chaining to another amplifier.
- 3. Gain Control: Adjusts input signal level to match the source.
- 4. Bass Boost Switch: Provides up to +24 dB of bass boost at 45 Hz.
- 5. Low Pass Crossover Control: Selects the low-pass filter frequency, ranging from 30 Hz to 300 Hz.
- 6. Crossover Control Switch: Selects between High Pass, Low Pass, or Full (no crossover) operation for speaker outputs.
- 7. High Pass Crossover Control: Selects the high-pass filter frequency, ranging from 50 Hz to 1 KHz.
- 8. Gain Remote Input Jack: For connecting an optional remote bass controller (e.g., BBR09).
- 9. Indicator LEDs: Green LED indicates normal operation; Red LED indicates protection mode.
- 10. Power Connections: Terminals for power input (refer to Connections section).
- 11. Fuses: Requires 2 x 15A fuses.
- 12. Speaker Terminal Output: Connects to speakers.
Applications (Wiring Examples)
Bridged Mode (4 Ohm Minimum Impedance): A diagram shows the amplifier's speaker outputs configured for bridged operation, connecting to a single speaker or subwoofer. Power, Ground, and Remote connections are shown from the battery and head unit.
Stereo Mode (2 Ohm Minimum Impedance): A diagram illustrates stereo configuration, connecting to two speakers. Power, Ground, and Remote connections are shown. Speaker outputs are labeled L+ / L- and R+ / R-.
VIBE BlackBox Stereo 4 Amplifier
Connections and Controls
The amplifier features:
- 1. Low Level Input: RCA inputs for source units. For 4-channel output from a 2-channel source, set the switch to '4CH' and connect RCAs to channels 3 and 4.
- 2. High Level Input: Connects to speakers when RCA outputs are unavailable using a provided loom. Wiring details for Front and Rear speakers are provided (e.g., Left Positive Brown, Left Negative Blue for Front Left Speaker).
- 3. Front Gain Control: Matches input signal level.
- 4. Front Crossover Control: Switch selects Low Pass, High Pass, or Flat for front channels. Frequency ranges: Low Pass 30 Hz - 300 Hz, High Pass 50 Hz - 1 KHz.
- 5. Front Bass Boost Switch: Provides up to +24 dB bass boost at 45 Hz.
- 6. Rear Gain Control: Matches input signal level for rear channels.
- 7. Rear Bass Boost Switch: Provides up to +24 dB bass boost at 45 Hz for rear channels.
- 8. Rear Crossover Control: Switch selects Low Pass, High Pass, or Flat for rear channels. Frequency ranges: Low Pass 30 Hz - 300 Hz, High Pass 50 Hz - 1 KHz.
- 9. Rear Gain Remote Input Jack: For connecting an optional remote bass controller.
- 10. Indicator LEDs: Green for normal operation, Red for protection mode.
- 11. Power Connections: Terminals for power input.
- 12. Fuses: Requires 2 x 30A fuses.
- 13. Speaker Terminal Output: Connects to speakers.
Applications (Wiring Examples)
Diagrams show various configurations for the Stereo 4 amplifier, including:
- Bridged Mode (4 Ohm Minimum Impedance): Connecting to speakers in bridged mode.
- Stereo Mode (2 Ohm Minimum Impedance): Connecting to speakers in stereo mode.
- 4 Channel Mode: Connecting to four speakers.
- 3 Channel Mode: Connecting to three speakers (e.g., two stereo, one bridged).
VIBE BlackBox Bass 1 Amplifier
Connections and Controls
The amplifier features:
- 1. Low Level Input / Output: RCA inputs for source units. Also provides RCA output for daisy-chaining.
- 2. Gain Control: Matches input signal level.
- 3. Low Pass Filter Control: Adjusts low-pass frequency from 40 Hz to 250 Hz.
- 4. Phase Control: Adjusts subwoofer phase (0° - 180°) for optimal integration with other speakers.
- 5. Subsonic Filter Control: Filters out low frequencies (15 Hz - 50 Hz) to protect the subwoofer and reduce distortion.
- 6. Subsonic Filter Switch: Turns the subsonic filter on or off.
- 7. Bass Boost Switch: Provides up to +18 dB bass boost at 45 Hz.
- 8. Bass Remote Input Jack: For connecting a remote bass controller.
- 9. Indicator LEDs: Blue LED for normal operation, Red LED for protection mode.
- 10. Fuses: Requires 4 x 35A fuses.
- 11. Speaker Terminal Output: Connects to speakers.
Applications (Wiring Examples)
Diagrams illustrate connections for the Bass 1 amplifier, typically showing connections to subwoofers in various impedance configurations (e.g., 1 Ohm minimum impedance).
Set Up Section
Follow these steps to correctly set the gain control and configure crossovers:
- Set the amplifier's gain control to minimum.
- Ensure bass boost is set to 0 dB.
- On the headunit, set all crossovers to 'Flat' and turn bass and treble to zero.
- Turn the headunit volume up to approximately 3/4.
- Slowly increase the amplifier's gain until distortion is heard or the listening volume becomes uncomfortable. Then, slightly reduce the gain.
Crossover Settings
Crossover settings depend on the speakers:
- Subwoofers: Recommended to set crossover to Low Pass, matching speaker specifications or preferred frequency (typically 60 Hz - 120 Hz).
- Full Range Speakers: Recommended to set crossover to Flat. Using High Pass crossovers can improve speaker control by removing bass frequencies, allowing higher volumes with less distortion.
- Speakers with Passive Crossover: Recommended to set crossover to High Pass, matching speaker specifications (typically 40 Hz - 120 Hz).
Note: Smaller speakers handle less bass. Adjust crossovers to optimize sound and prevent damage. Correct crossover use prolongs speaker life and improves performance. Consult a professional installer or VIBE dealer for optimal setup.
Troubleshooting Guide
Before servicing, check the following:
Amplifier Will Not Power Up
- Check ground connections are secure and to bare metal.
- Verify remote terminal has at least 7V DC using a multimeter.
- Check battery voltage is at least 10.5V DC on the positive terminal.
- Inspect all fuses.
- Ensure the protection light is off. If lit, disconnect power for 30 seconds and reconnect.
Protection LED Illuminates
- Check for shorts on speaker wires (no joined wires or wires touching chassis).
- The amplifier may shut down if it overheats (above 80°C). Ensure adequate airflow.
- Remove speaker wires and reset the amplifier. If the Protection LED remains on, the amplifier may be faulty.
Amplifier Gets Very Hot
- Verify minimum speaker impedance is correct for the amplifier.
- Check for shorts on speaker wires.
- Ensure good airflow around the amplifier; an external fan might be needed.
Blown Fuse(s)
- Check positive supply and ground for shorts.
- Ensure positive wire is connected to the positive terminal and negative to the ground terminal.
- Fuse Ratings:
- VIBE BlackBox Stereo 2: 15 amp x 2
- VIBE BlackBox Stereo 4: 30 amp x 2
- VIBE BlackBox Bass 1: 35 amp x 4
Distorted Sound
- Reduce the gain control if distortion is heard.
- Verify all crossover frequencies are set correctly (refer to Setup section).
- Check for shorts on all speaker wires.
- Ensure all speakers are wired correctly with proper polarity.
Technical Specifications
BlackBox Stereo Amplifiers
| Specification | BlackBox Stereo 2 | BlackBox Stereo 4 |
|---|---|---|
| RMS Power @ 13.8v DC | 2 x 100 WRMS | 4 x 100 WRMS |
| Power @ 4 Ohms stereo | 2 x 125 WRMS | 4 x 125 WRMS |
| Power @ 2 Ohms stereo | 1 x 250 WRMS | 2 x 250 WRMS |
| Power @ 4 Ohms bridged | N/A | N/A |
| Minimum speaker impedance | 2 Ohm stereo / 4 Ohm bridged | 2 Ohm stereo / 4 Ohm bridged |
| THD Distortion | 0.1% | 0.1% |
| IMD Distortion | 0.1% | 0.1% |
| Frequency Response | 7Hz - 38 KHz | 5Hz - 43 KHz |
| Input Sensitivity | 250 mV - 5V | 250 mV - 5V |
| Input Impedance | 15K | 15K |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 96 dB | 88 dB |
| Channel Separation | -61 dB | -57 dB |
| Crossover Network: Low pass filter | 30 Hz - 300 Hz | 30 Hz - 300 Hz |
| Crossover Network: Bass Boost | 0 dB - +24 Db | 0 dB - +24 Db |
| Crossover Network: High pass filter | 50 Hz - 1KHz | 50 Hz - 1KHz |
| Fuse rating | 15A x 2 | 30A x 2 |
| Size (length x width x height) | 348mm x 224mm x 57 mm | 448mm x 224mm x 57 mm |
BlackBox Bass Amplifier
| Specification | BlackBox Bass 1 |
|---|---|
| RMS power @ 13.8 VDC | 1 x 650 WRMS |
| Power @ 4 ohms | 1 x 1000 WRMS |
| Power @ 2 Ohms | 1 x 1250 WRMS |
| Power @ 1 Ohm | N/A |
| Minimum speaker impedance | 1 ohm |
| THD Distortion | 0.8% |
| IMD Distortion | 0.8% |
| Input Sensitivity | 250 mv - 5V |
| Input Impedance | 15 K |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 95 dB |
| Crossover Network: Low Pass Filter | 40 Hz - 250 Hz |
| Crossover Network: Bass Boost | 0 dB - +18 dB |
| Crossover Network: Subsonic Filter | 15 Hz - 50 Hz |
| Fuse Rating | 35 amp x 4 |
| Size (length x width x height) | 478 mm x 224mm x 57mm |
VIBE Accessories Catalog
VIBE offers a wide range of accessories to complement your audio system:
- FLATBASS™ 13 SPK Speaker Cable: 13-gauge, SolidCore™ flat bass speaker cable designed for high power bass applications.
- VIBE 140 Amp Circuit Breaker: Provides critical system protection, resettable via a switch.
- FLAT Y 2M/FLAT Y 2F RCA Y Leads: Professional OFC Y-interconnects with flat design and ferrite loaded gold-plated plugs to reduce interference. Available in 1 male to 2 female (FLAT Y 2F) and 2 male to 1 female (FLAT Y 2M) configurations.
- VIBE BC10 Level Controller: RCA input/output gain level controller for subwoofer systems, allowing adjustment from the driver's seat.
- Slick Level Remote: Remote gain control for Slick amplifiers, plugs into the amplifier's remote level port.
- VIBE PortPlug™: Seals VIBE TurboPort™ in enclosures for tuning. Available for 2.5" (PP25) and 3" (PP30) TurboPorts.
- VIBE Official Merchandise: Polo shirts (MPS), T-shirts (MTS), CDs (MCD), CD cases (MCC), fleeces (VFL), and tax disc holders (VTD).
- VIBE SD4/5 Subwoofer Defender Grill: Protects subwoofers and adds style. SD4 fits 10" and 12" subs, SD5 fits 15" subs.
- VIBE GB41 Banana Plug: Gold-plated 4mm banana plugs for quick-release speaker connections.
- VIBE DB6 Non-Fused Distribution Block: Professional block for connecting up to 5 amplifiers, with 2 x 4AWG inputs and 4 x 8AWG outputs for power or ground distribution.
- VIBE FD4 Fused Distribution Block: Professional AGU fused block for up to 4 amplifiers, with 1 x 4AWG input and 4 x 8AWG outputs, individually fused up to 80 amps.
- VIBE CT0/CT4 Compression Fit Ring Terminal: Gold-plated ring terminals for maximum conductivity when connecting power cable to vehicle batteries.
- VIBE RT4/RT8 Crimp On Ring Terminal: Professional gold-plated ring terminals with rubber over boots for easy crimping.
- VIBE AGU30, AGU60, AGU80 Fuses: AGU fuse series, compatible with distribution blocks and wiring kits.
- System Kits:
- Bass System Kit: 3000-watt kit with BASS specific CriticalLink™ cables (FLATLINESTM 4AWG PWR, FLATBASSTM RCA, FLATBASSTM 13 SPK, FLATLINES TM remote 18, VIBE 140 amp circuit breaker). Recommended for VIBE BASS monoblock amplifiers.
- Stereo System Kit: 1500-watt kit with full range CriticalLink™ cables (FLATLINESTM 8AWG PWR, FLATSTEREOTM RCA, FLATLINES TM remote 18, FLATSTEREOTM speaker cable, AGU Fuse Holder). Recommended for VIBE full range STEREO amplifiers.
- Active System Kit: 1500-watt kit for Active Bass systems (Bass Boxes) with BASS specific CriticalLink™ components (FLATLINESTM 8AWG PWR, FLATBASSTM RCA, FLATLINES TM remote 18, AGU Fuse Holder, FastPlug™). Recommended for VIBE active bass enclosures.
- VIBE PC15 Power Capacitor: 1.5 Farad power capacitor for high-performance audio systems, ensuring smooth current flow. Features a digital voltage display and built-in power distribution block.
- VIBE Deltabox Line Driver: Ideal for installing multiple amplifiers from a single RCA pre-out, boosting and isolating the signal for cleaner sound.
- VIBE FastPlug™: Patented connector for safe and fast removal of active bass enclosures or amplifiers.
- FLATLINESTM Power and Ground Cable: Flat design, heavy-duty power cable for maximum voltage transfer. Available in various gauges (0, 4, 8 AWG) and colors (red for power, black for ground).
- FLATSTEREO™ High Definition Interconnect: OFC high-definition full-range RCA interconnect for optimal signal transfer. Available in 1m and 5m lengths.
- FLATBASS™ SolidCore™ Bass Interconnect: Specifically developed for bass systems, featuring oversized SolidCore™ OFC signal wires for higher voltage transfer. Available in 1m and 5m lengths.
- FLATFLEX™ High Definition Speaker Cable: Super fine OFC copper strands for detailed sound reproduction. Flat design allows for invisible installation under carpets. Available in 16 gauge and 12 gauge.
For accessory availability and next-day delivery, call 0870 765 8423 or visit www.vibeaudio.co.uk/shop (UK ONLY). For more product info, visit www.vibeaudio.co.uk.
Limited Warranty
All VIBE products carry a full twelve-month warranty from the date of original purchase (proof required). To validate, return the warranty card to VIBE within seven days of purchase. Retain the original receipt and packaging. For warranty issues, return the product to the point of purchase with proof of purchase and original packaging. If the store cannot resolve the issue, it may be returned to VIBE (approx. 7 working days for processing).
Full warranty information is available at www.vibeaudio.co.uk/warranty. A written version can be obtained from VIBE warranty Dept, PO BOX 11000, B75 7WG.
Technical Enquiries: Call 09067031420 (calls cost 50p per minute, subject to change). Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM. Calls are recorded for training.
Copyright: Content is the property of VIBE Technologies Limited and its affiliates, protected by UK and International copyright laws. Trademarks and trade dress belong to VIBE. Use of VIBE trademarks is restricted.
Disclaimer: VIBE provides this manual and content on an "AS IS" basis. VIBE disclaims all warranties. Specifications are subject to change without notice. VIBE recommends caution when listening to music at high volumes, as it can cause permanent hearing damage. Use of VIBE equipment constitutes agreement to take responsibility for safety and to this disclaimer.
