AudioControl DQ-61: Six-Channel Line Output Converter
With Signal Delay, Equalization, and AccuBASS® for interfacing with factory installed audio systems.
Introduction
The DQ-61 is a high-performance, compact six-channel line level converter designed to enhance sound quality from factory head units. It features independent multi-channel equalization and signal delay for custom tuning, along with AudioControl's patent-pending AccuBASS® system to correct factory bass roll-off, ensuring optimal sound in any vehicle.
Key Features
- User-friendly Signal Delay for acoustical alignment.
- 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 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.
- Bulletproof 5-year warranty (when installed by an authorized dealer).
Important Safety Instructions
Always read and follow all instructions. Do not use near water, clean with a dry cloth, and ensure proper ventilation. Installation should be performed by qualified personnel to avoid damage and ensure vehicle safety. Use appropriate wiring gauge and rubber grommets for protection. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. Protect hearing from high sound pressure levels.
WARNING:
Improper installation may lead to permanent injury or death.Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not disassemble the apparatus beyond accessing controls. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Recycling Notice: Please recycle electronic equipment responsibly.
Quick Installation Information
- Mount the DQ-61 in an accessible location, away from spills and debris.
- Install the DQ-61 in the signal path between the OEM source unit (or factory amplifier) and the aftermarket amplifier/processor. Connect factory speaker wires to the DQ-61's speaker-level inputs.
- Use RCA cables to connect the DQ-61's outputs to your aftermarket amplifier(s). If unsure, consult an authorized AudioControl dealer.
- Connect +12V power, ground, and turn-on wires.
- Connect the amplifier trigger input to the DQ-61's 12-volt trigger output.
- Turn amplifier gains down before powering on the system.
- Turn on the system and level match the DQ-61 to your source unit and amplifiers.
- Set Signal Delay Mode to "Set-Up" on the DQ-61 chassis.
- Use the ACR-3 Dash Control to adjust signal delay for Left and Right channels.
- Adjust signal delay for front and subwoofer outputs using the ACR-3.
- Change Signal Delay Mode back to "Normal" on the DQ-61 chassis.
- Set equalization controls for front, rear, and subwoofer channels.
- Adjust the AccuBASS® setting for maximum bass.
- Enjoy the sound.
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 can route Channel 2 signals to Subwoofer/Channel 3 outputs if only front and rear signals are present (AutoMode circuitry).
Input Level Controls
Adjust input signal levels for maximum audio 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 details.
AccuBASS® Settings
This circuit compensates for factory bass roll-off. Threshold and Level controls determine when and how much correction is applied.
Signal Delay Mode
Allows setting up signal delays using the dash control. Turn the knob right for "Set-Up" mode (blue LED blinks) and left for "Normal" mode.
Under the Covers - Internal Jumpers
Advanced users can configure the DQ-61 using internal jumpers for specific applications.
Output Summing Jumpers
Combine separate, bandwidth-limited signals (e.g., from factory crossovers) 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 do not trigger the AutoMode circuit, the jumper can be set to "OFF".
GTO™ Signal Sense
Bypass the GTO™ circuit by moving the jumper to "OFF" and use a switched 12-volt signal connected to the Remote In terminal to prevent unexpected system turn-on from features like door chimes.
Ground Isolation Selector
Helps prevent alternator noise by providing alternative grounding connections. Shipments are in the isolated position.
Wiring Diagrams Description
The manual includes diagrams illustrating typical installation scenarios:
- Typical DQ-61 Installation: Shows the DQ-61 connected to a factory amplifier, an LC-4.800 4-channel amplifier, and an LC-1.800 subwoofer amplifier. Connections include speaker-level inputs from the factory amp to the DQ-61, and line-level outputs from the DQ-61 to the aftermarket amplifiers.
- Using DQ-61 and The Epicenter: Depicts a setup with the DQ-61, The Epicenter, and AudioControl amplifiers for enhanced sound quality and bass.
- Installation with 6XS 6-Channel Crossover: Illustrates the DQ-61 integrated with a 6XS 6-Channel Crossover and two LC-4.800 amplifiers, showing signal routing for various speaker outputs.
Signal Delay Operation
Corrects acoustical alignment by delaying speaker signals. Use the DQ-61 Set-Up App or your ears to set delays. The ACR-3 dash remote is used for adjustments. Set all delays to zero initially, then adjust Left/Right and Front/Subwoofer delays using the ACR-3 knob.
Normal Mode: ACR-3 knob controls Subwoofer output level. Signal processing (EQ, Delay, AccuBASS®) is active.
Set-Up Mode: ACR-3 knob controls Signal Delay. LEDs indicate status (e.g., Blue LED Flashing, Red LED Solid for Left to Right adjustment).
Equalization Optimization
Tailor your system's sound to your preference. For best results, use a Real-Time Analyzer (RTA) like the AudioControl SA-4140. Play pink noise and adjust frequencies to achieve a balanced response. Focus on cutting peaks before boosting. Key frequency areas include Sub-bass (below 100 Hz), Midbass (100-300 Hz), Midrange (300 Hz-3 kHz), and Treble (3 kHz and up).
AccuBASS®
Restores bass lost in factory systems at higher volumes. Set the Level to 12:00 and Threshold to 7:00 initially. Increase system volume until bass drops out, then turn the Threshold clockwise until bass returns. Fine-tune with the Level control.
The WARRANTY
AudioControl offers a one-year warranty on materials and workmanship, extended to five years if installed by an authorized United States AudioControl dealer. Conditions for warranty include registration within 15 days, keeping the sales receipt, and purchasing from an authorized dealer. Warranty is void if the serial number is altered, or if the unit is physically damaged, improperly connected, or subjected to abuse.
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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