Hifonics Andromeda Series 21st Anniversary Edition High Performance Amplifiers
Introduction
Hifonics celebrates its 21st Anniversary with the Andromeda Series, offering high-performance car audio amplifiers designed for exceptional sound quality and features. This series provides a very high level of performance with advanced features, including variable crossovers, subsonic filters, and bass equalization.
To ensure years of listening pleasure, all Andromeda amplifiers feature a built-in diagnostic mode that detects issues like shorted speaker leads, high temperatures, and DC shorts, automatically shutting down the amplifier to prevent damage.
Andromeda Series Amplifier Overview
The Andromeda Series offers a range of amplifiers designed for various system configurations:
- 2-Channel Amplifiers: SATURN A4000, MARS A6000
- 4-Channel Amplifiers: MERCURY A4400, PLUTO A6400, KRYPTON A3500
- Mono Amplifiers: NEPTUNE A1000D, VENUS A1500D
Each model is capable of 4 & 2-Ohms stereo per channel, or 4-Ohms mono bridged operation. Tri-Mode operation is possible with stereo pairs. Input sensitivities are variable from 0.2V to 6V (or 9V for mono amps). All crossovers are fully variable, with stereo filters at 12dB/Octave and mono filters at 24dB/Octave. A POWER LED indicates operation, and a DIAGNOSTIC or PROTECT LED indicates faults.
Application Examples
The following sections detail common system configurations using Andromeda Series amplifiers.
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 - Full Range Stereo
This is the most basic application for the Andromeda Series 2-channel amplifiers. Connect the LINE INPUTS to the Radio/CD with RCA cables. Set the X-OVER switch to FLAT. The minimum final loudspeaker impedance is 4 or 2-Ohms stereo mode, or 4-Ohms mono mode. This amplifier does not support 1-Ohm stereo or 2/1-Ohm mono operation.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics amplifier with 'FULL RANGE STEREO LINE INPUT' connected to the amplifier's LINE INPUTS. The amplifier's speaker outputs are connected to 'FULL RANGE SPEAKERS'. A 'REMOTE TURN-ON' wire connects to 'TO BATTERY + 12 Volts VIA FUSE'. 'CHASSIS GROUND' is also indicated.
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 - Full Range Mono
This illustrates the basic mono bridging method. A MONO signal source is required. Feed the SAME signal to both left and right inputs via a Y-adapter RCA cable. Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, and its negative terminal to RIGHT -. The AMPLIFIER X-OVER switch must be in the FULL position. The minimum final loudspeaker impedance is 4-Ohms mono.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics amplifier with 'FULL RANGE MONO LINE INPUT VIA Y-ADAPTER FROM MONO SOURCE' connected to the amplifier's LINE INPUTS. The amplifier's speaker outputs are bridged to a 'FULL RANGE MONO SPEAKER'. A 'REMOTE TURN-ON' wire connects to 'TO BATTERY + 12 Volts VIA FUSE'. 'CHASSIS GROUND' is also indicated.
SATURN A4000 / MARS A6000 - Stereo High Pass with Mono Low-Pass (2-Way Active / Bi-amplified)
This application uses two 2-channel amplifiers: one for high frequencies and another for low frequencies (mono sub bass). Connect amplifier inputs to the Radio/CD. Connect the LINE OUT of the bass amplifier to the inputs of the highs amplifier. For mono bass woofer wiring, connect the positive terminal to LEFT +, and negative to RIGHT -. Highs amplifier X-OVER switch: HI. Lows amplifier X-OVER switch: LP/BP. Highs amplifier HI PASS: 100 Hz. Lows amplifier HI PASS (Subsonic): 10 Hz to 40 Hz, LOW PASS: 100 Hz. Minimum impedances: 2-ohm per channel stereo, 4-ohm mono bridged.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a car. Two Hifonics 2-channel amplifiers are depicted. The top one labeled 'HIGHS AMPLIFIER' receives 'FULL RANGE STEREO LINE INPUT'. Its outputs connect to 'STEREO HIGHS SPEAKERS'. The bottom one labeled 'SUB BASS AMPLIFIER' receives input via a 'STEREO INTERCONNECT RCA CABLE' from the highs amplifier's LINE OUT. Its outputs connect to a 'MONO BASS SPEAKER'. Both have 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND'.
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 - 4 Channel Full Range System
Use the 4-channel amplifier as discrete 4-channel full range units. Connect the four inputs to a Radio/CD with RCA cables. Set both 1/2CH X-OVER and 3/4CH X-OVER switches to FULL. Crossover frequencies are N/A for this setup. Minimum loudspeaker impedance is 2-Ohms per channel.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics 4-channel amplifier receiving 'FULL RANGE STEREO LINE INPUTS'. Its speaker outputs connect to 'FULL RANGE SPEAKERS'. 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND' are shown.
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 - 2 or 3 Channel Full Range System
Use 4-channel amplifiers as 2 or 3 channel units by mono bridging. For a 3-channel system, mono bridge channel pair 3/4. For a 2-channel system, mono bridge channel pair 1/2. A MONO signal source is required for bridging. Feed the same signal to both inputs via a Y-adapter RCA cable. Connect mono speaker positive to LEFT +, negative to RIGHT -. Set 1/2CH X-OVER and 3/4CH X-OVER switches to FULL. Minimum impedances: 2-ohm per channel stereo, 4-ohm mono bridged.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics 4-channel amplifier receiving '1 STEREO / 1 MONO FULL RANGE LINE INPUTS' (one set for channels 1/2, another for 3/4). Outputs connect to 'MONO OR SUB BASS SPEAKER' (from bridged 3/4) and 'STEREO FULL RANGE OR HIGHS SPEAKERS' (from 1/2). 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND' are shown.
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 - 2 Way Active, Bi-amplified System with Mono Bass
Implement a 2-way active system using a 4-channel amplifier. Channels 1 & 2 for highs, channels 3 & 4 for mono bass. Use 2 Y-adapters to feed the same signal to both sets of channels. Connect LEFT signal to channels 1 and 3, right signal to channels 2 and 4. Mono bass woofer wiring: positive to LEFT +, negative to RIGHT -. Switch settings: 1/2CH X-OVER: HI, 3/4CH X-OVER: LP/BP. Channels 1/2 HI PASS: 100 Hz. Channels 3/4 HI PASS (subsonic): 20 Hz, LOW PASS: 100 Hz. Minimum impedances: 2-ohm per channel stereo, 4-ohm mono bridged.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics 4-channel amplifier. 'LEFT TO CHANNELS 1 AND 2' and 'RIGHT TO CHANNELS 3 AND 4' inputs are shown. Outputs connect to 'MONO BASS SPEAKER' (from 3/4) and 'STEREO HIGHS SPEAKERS' (from 1/2). 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND' are shown.
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 - 2 Way Active, Bi-amplified System with Mono Bass, and Faded Highs/Lows
A variation of the 2-way active system. Use front outputs from a head unit for highs (channels 1 & 2) and rear outputs for bass (channels 3 & 4). This allows adjustment via the head unit's front/rear fade. Follow previous system's switch and crossover settings. Minimum impedances: 2-ohm per channel stereo, 4-ohm mono bridged.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics 4-channel amplifier receiving 'FULL RANGE STEREO LINE INPUTS' (labeled as front and rear inputs). Outputs connect to 'MONO BASS SPEAKER' (from 3/4) and 'STEREO HIGHS SPEAKERS' (from 1/2). 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND' are shown.
MERCURY A4400 / PLUTO A6400 / KRYPTON A3500 - Front/Rear High Pass, using a 2-channel amplifier for mono sub bass
Combine a 2-channel and a 4-channel amplifier for a full system with front/rear highs and mono sub bass. Feed front and rear outputs of a head unit to the 4-channel amplifier inputs. Connect the LINE OUT of the 4-channel amplifier to the LINE INPUT of the 2-channel amplifier. Mono bass woofer wiring: positive to LEFT +, negative to RIGHT -. 4-channel highs amplifier switch settings: 1/2CH X-OVER: HI, 3/4CH X-OVER: HI. 2-channel bass amplifier switch: LP/BP. 4-channel highs amplifier: Channels 1/2 HI PASS: 100 Hz, Channels 3/4 HI PASS: 100 Hz. 2-channel bass amplifier HI PASS (Subsonic): 10 Hz to 40 Hz, LOW PASS: 100 Hz. Minimum impedances: 2-ohm per channel stereo, 4-ohm mono bridged.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a car. A Hifonics 4-channel amplifier labeled 'FRONT AND REAR HIGHS' receives 'FRONT INPUTS' and 'REAR INPUTS'. Its LINE OUT connects via 'STEREO INTERCONNECT RCA CABLE' to a Hifonics 2-channel amplifier labeled 'BASS'. The highs amplifier outputs connect to 'REAR HIGHS SPEAKERS' and 'FRONT HIGHS SPEAKERS'. The bass amplifier outputs connect to a 'MONO BASS SPEAKER'. Both have 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND'.
NEPTUNE A1000D / VENUS A1500D - Mono Amplifier Applications
These 1-channel mono amplifiers are capable of 4, 2, and 1-Ohm loads and can be used in bi-amplifier systems. The line input signal is routed directly to the line output RCA jacks. The REMOTE jack allows addition of the Bass Remote module. Controls include SUBSONIC (15Hz-35Hz), BASS EQ (0dB-18dB), LOW PASS (35Hz-250Hz), PHASE (0-180 degrees), and LEVEL (gain). POWER LED indicates operation; PROTECT LED indicates a fault. BALANCED INPUT accepts 0.4V to 18V.
Basic Application
Connect line inputs to Radio/CD or full range primary amplifier outputs with RCA cables. Use 16 gauge speaker wiring. Minimum final loudspeaker impedance: 1-Ohm.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows a Hifonics mono amplifier receiving 'FULL RANGE STEREO LINE OUTPUT' (from highs amplifier) and 'FULL RANGE STEREO LINE INPUT' (to source). Its outputs connect to a 'MONO SUBWOOFER' or 'PARALLEL MONO SUBWOOFERS (2-OHMS EACH MINIMUM)'. 'REMOTE TURN-ON' to battery and 'CHASSIS GROUND' are shown.
Installation Guide
This section provides essential tips for installing Hifonics amplifiers.
System Design
Determine the system format (e.g., single amplifier, active, front/rear). Choose amplifier size based on personal taste and desired headroom. Higher power systems can reproduce peaks cleanly. Lower power amplifiers may clip, causing loudspeaker failure. Choose optimal loudspeaker and amplifier mounting locations for sound stage imaging and cooling. Mount amplifiers vertically for best convection cooling. Use high-quality RCA cables to minimize noise interference.
General Installation
Mount amplifiers in the chosen location. Run RCA cables at least 18 inches away from power and speaker cables, and away from electrical devices like fuel pumps.
Power and Ground Connections
Use a sufficient gauge power cable (at least #8 per amplifier). For multi-amplifier systems, use a fused distribution block near the amplifiers. Ground each amplifier with a short ground lead (#8 gauge) directly to the vehicle chassis. Ensure a solid electrical and mechanical contact for the ground lug, scraping paint off the chassis at the connection point and using a bolt, spring washer, and nut. Coat the connection with petroleum jelly to prevent oxidation.
Safe Connection Sequence
- Connect speaker wires to speakers and amplifiers.
- Run and plug in RCA cables.
- Connect all power grounds and remote turn-on leads.
- Connect all +12 volt cables to amplifiers and distribution blocks.
- Connect the main +12 volt cable to the battery, with the main fuse removed.
Power Up the System
Ensure the head unit is off and all level controls are at minimum. Set equalizers to 0 dB and crossovers to approximate frequencies. Set input selector and crossover switches as required. Remove all amplifier fuses. Insert the main fuse at the battery. If the fuse does not blow, insert amplifier fuses one by one, turning the head unit on and increasing volume to test functionality. If the system sounds fine, turn off the head unit and install remaining fuses.
Setting Up Systems After Installation
After installation, ensure all controls are at minimum. Use a familiar CD or cassette as a reference.
Level Control Setup
Turn the head unit volume to about 80%. For 2-channel amplifiers, slowly turn up the level control until distortion is heard, then back off slightly. For 4-channel amplifiers, repeat for each channel pair. For active systems, start with the bass amplifier, adjust to the point of audible distortion, then back off. Match midrange and highs levels to balance the sound.
Crossover Frequency Fine Tuning
Adjust crossover frequencies for best sound quality, being careful not to exceed loudspeaker manufacturer recommendations, as this can damage components.
Equalizer Setup
Once levels and crossovers are set, adjust equalizers and tone controls. Boosts can cause amplifier clipping. Use the head unit volume control for intermediate levels. Readjust level controls after equalization.
Troubleshooting a System
The diagnostic system in Hifonics amplifiers helps identify faults. A PROTECT LED indicates issues like loudspeaker shorts, internal amplifier faults, or DC offset.
Diagnostic System
If the PROTECT LED lights:
- Disconnect all RCA and speaker leads, keeping power, ground, and remote connected. Turn the amplifier back on. If the LED still lights, the amplifier has an internal fault.
- If not, plug RCA cables back in. If the LED lights, the fault is in the input (cables or source unit).
- If the amplifier is fine with RCA cables, connect speakers one at a time to identify a faulty speaker or wiring.
Amplifier Heatsink Overheating
Amplifiers shut down at 80°C. Causes include inadequate cooling (relocate amplifier) or driving high power levels into low impedances (reduce volume, ensure correct impedance).
Low Output Power
Check level controls, battery voltage (at least 11V at terminals), and +12V/ground connections.
Fuses Blowing
Check for loudspeaker impedances below recommended minimums. Check for shorts on the main +12V cable. If an amplifier fuse blows continuously with only basic connections, the amplifier may be faulty.
System Does Not Turn On
Check all fuses and connections. Measure +12V and remote turn-on voltages at amplifier terminals, tracing back to the source if necessary.
Noise Problems
Hiss/White Noise: Usually caused by amplifier level controls set too high or a noisy head unit. Unplug RCA cables to isolate the source.
Electrical Interference: Caused by vehicle electrical systems. Isolate the problem by unplugging RCA cables, checking speaker leads, and then investigating source components.
Ticking/Whine Changing with RPM: May be caused by RCA cable radiation pickup (relocate cables), poor head unit ground, or noisy +12V supply. Try a direct battery connection.
Constant Whine: Often caused by system instability. Check all connections, especially grounds. Ensure speaker leads are not shorting to chassis. Check RCA cable integrity.
Features and Specifications
A detailed table outlines the features and specifications for each Andromeda Series amplifier model.
| Feature | SATURN A4000 | MARS A6000 | KRYPTON A3500 | MERCURY A4400 | PLUTO A6400 | NEPTUNE A1000D | VENUS A1500D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Output Power Rating (4-Ohms load) | 100 x 2 | 150 x 2 | 35 x 4 | 55 x 4 | 85 x 4 | 250 x 1 | 500 x 1 |
| Output Power Rating (2-Ohms load) | 200 x 2 | 300 x 2 | 70 x 4 | 110 x 4 | 170 x 4 | 500 x 1 | 1000 x 1 |
| Mono bridged into 4-Ohms | 400 x 1 | 600 x 1 | 140 x 2 | 220 x 2 | 340 x 2 | - | - |
| Frequency Response, -3dB | 10 Hz - 50 kHz | 10 Hz - 50 kHz | 10 Hz - 50 kHz | 10Hz - 50 kHz | 10Hz - 50 kHz | 15Hz - 250Hz | 15Hz - 250Hz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio (A-weighted) | >95dB | >95dB | >95dB | >95dB | >95dB | >95dB | >95dB |
| THD&Noise | < 0.05% | < 0.05% | < 0.03% | < 0.03% | < 0.03% | <0.1% | <0.1% |
| Channel separation at 1kHz | >70dB | >70dB | >70dB | >70dB | >70dB | - | - |
| Variable input level control | 0.2V - 6Volts | 0.2V - 6Volts | 0.2V - 6Volts | 0.2V - 6Volts | 0.2V - 6Volts | 0.2V - 9Volts | 0.2V - 9Volts |
| Input Impedance | 47k-Ohms | 47k-Ohms | 47k-Ohms | 47k-Ohms | 47k-Ohms | 47k-Ohms | 47k-Ohms |
| Power and Diagnostic LED | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Protection: DC, short, thermal, overload | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Power Supply, all MOSFET PWM | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Audio Output all MOSFET | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Audio Output all BIPOLAR | - | - | YES | YES | YES | - | - |
| Crossover Input selector switch | HI/FULL/LP-BP | HI/FULL/LP-BP | HI/FULL/LP-BP | HI/FULL/LP-BP | HI/FULL/LP-BP | - | - |
| Channels 1/2 Variable High Pass, 12 db/Octave | 10Hz - 1.2kHz | 10Hz - 1.2kHz | 10Hz - 1.2kHz | 10Hz - 1.2kHz | 10Hz - 1.2kHz | - | - |
| Channels 1/2 Variable Mono Low Pass, 24 dB/Octave | 30Hz - 150Hz | 30Hz - 150Hz | 30Hz - 150Hz | 30Hz - 150Hz | 30Hz - 150Hz | - | - |
| Channels 1/2 Bass Boost at 45Hz | 0-+18dB | 0-+18dB | 0-+18dB | 0-+18dB | 0-+18dB | - | - |
| Channels 3/4 Variable High Pass, 12db/Octave | - | - | HI/FULL/LP-BP | HI/FULL/LP-BP | HI/FULL/LP-BP | - | - |
| Channels 3/4 Variable Mono Low Pass, 24dB/Octave | - | - | 30Hz - 150Hz | 30Hz - 150Hz | 30Hz - 150Hz | - | - |
| Channels 3/4 Bass Boost | - | - | 0-+18dB | 0-+18dB | 0-+18dB | - | - |
| Mono Low Pass (Channels 3/4) | - | - | - | - | - | 35Hz - 250Hz | 35Hz - 250Hz |
| Mono Bass Boost (Channels 3/4) | - | - | - | - | - | 0-+18 dB | 0-+18dB |
| Unbalanced Inputs (RCA) | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Line Output (RCA) | Full-Range | Full-Range | Full-Range (CH3&4) | Full-Range (CH3&4) | Full-Range (CH3&4) | YES | YES |
| Remote control (RJ11) | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Molded power terminal | 4-GA | 4-GA | 4-GA | 4-GA | 4-GA | 4-GA | 4-GA |
| Molded speaker terminals | 12-GA | 12-GA | 12-GA | 12-GA | 12-GA | 12-GA | 12-GA |
| Fuse type | MAXI | MAXI | MAXI | MAXI | MAXI | MAXI | MAXI |
| Fuse size | 50 Amp | 70 Amp | 30 Amp | 50 Amp | 50 Amp | 60 Amp | 60 Amp |
| Accessories Included | ABR-1 Remote Control | ABR-1 Remote Control | ABR-1 Remote Control | ABR-1 Remote Control | ABR-1 Remote Control | ABR-1 Remote Control | ABR-1 Remote Control |
Note: All features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Maxxsonics Limited Warranty
Maxxsonics USA Inc. warrants Hifonics car audio products to the original consumer purchaser to be free from defects in material and workmanship for one (1) year from the date of purchase.
Maxxsonics will repair or replace, at its option and free of charge, any system component that proves defective under normal installation, use, and service during the warranty period. A photo copy of the original receipt from the authorized Maxxsonics dealer must accompany the returned product.
This warranty excludes damage due to misuse, abuse, accident, incorrect wiring, improper installation, alteration, natural disaster, or unauthorized repair. It is limited to defective parts and specifically excludes incidental or consequential damages. Warranty on installation labor, removal, re-installation, and freight charges is not covered. Products damaged due to insufficient or improper packing materials are also not covered.
Maxxsonics is designed and engineered in the USA. Visit www.maxxsonics.com for more information.
