AudioControl LC7i Six Channel Line Output Converter with AccuBASS™ for Interfacing with Factory Installed Audio Systems

The LC7i transforms under-performing factory audio systems into a supreme audio machine. It is a compact, six-channel, high-performance active line output converter with AudioControl's patent-pending AccuBASS™ compensation that corrects the bass roll-off present in many factory equipped audio systems. The LC7i accepts up to six channels of speaker-level signal from factory-installed amplifiers or a source unit and converts it to a high-quality, aftermarket low-noise, pre-amp level signal that can be fed to amplifiers and speakers. An optional ACR-1 remote level control can be added to adjust the output of the bass channels from the convenience of the driver's seat. With the LC7i, users can have a high-performance audio system while maintaining the features, functions, and aesthetics of their factory source unit.

This manual covers the features, functions, installation, and usage of the LC7i. For more information, visit the AudioControl website at http://www.audiocontrol.com.

Key Features of the LC7i

• AccuBASS™ bass compensation corrects bass roll-off in factory systems.
• Speaker-level inputs can accept 400 watts per channel.
• Six input and output channels.
• Internal channel summing eliminates factory crossover settings.
• AutoMode turns 2 inputs into 3 outputs.
• GTO™ signal sensing turns the LC7i on automatically.
• 12 volt 1 amp remote output to power up processors and amplifiers.
• Level matching controls.
• Compact chassis for easy installation.
• Recyclable cardboard box for easy storage or emergency heating needs.
• Optional dash control (ACR-1) for remote level adjustment.
• Bulletproof 5-year warranty (when installed by an authorized AudioControl dealer).

Quick Install Guide

For those who prefer to install the LC7i themselves, here are a few reminders to speed up the installation. Refer to diagrams on page 9 for guidelines.

1. Physically mount the LC7i in a location that keeps it away from spills and allows access to the top panel controls.
2. The LC7i needs to be installed in the signal path between the factory source unit (or factory amplifier) and aftermarket amplifier(s) and/or processor(s). Do not connect the LC7i between the factory head unit and the factory amplifier. Locate the amplified speaker wires coming from the factory source unit and/or amplifier and connect them to the speaker-level inputs on the LC7i. Factory speaker leads can often be found in the rear of the vehicle or at the factory amplifier.Note: If the source unit has front, rear, and subwoofer speaker-level outputs, connect them to the three sets of inputs on the LC7i. If the source unit only has front and rear outputs, the AutoMode circuitry in the LC7i automatically routes the Channel 2 input signal to the Channel 3 (subwoofer) input.
3. Use RCA cables to connect the RCA outputs of the LC7i to aftermarket amplifier(s). If unfamiliar with these connections, AudioControl recommends having an authorized dealer perform the installation.
4. Connect +12V power and ground. The LC7i has a 12-volt remote input, but in most systems, the GTO™ circuit turns the LC7i on automatically.
5. Connect the 12-volt remote output of the LC7i to the amplifiers remote input.
6. Turn amplifier gains fully down before turning on the system.
7. Turn on the system and level match the LC7i to the source unit, signal processor, and amplifiers. For more help on level matching, refer to AudioControl's technical videos at http://www.audiocontrol.com.
8. If an authorized AudioControl dealer installs the LC7i, the normal one-year warranty will be extended to five years. AudioControl trains its dealers and installers to ensure correct installation and optimal results.

Under the Hood - Internal Jumpers

The LC7i features internal jumpers for customization:

1. Output Summing Jumpers: Modern factory stereo systems often have separately-amplified and crossed-over tweeters, mid-ranges, and subs. To add aftermarket amps and speakers, these separate signals need to be combined into a single full-range signal. The LC7i allows selection of input signals to be summed to the Main outputs. When a jumper is moved to the "summed" position, a corresponding green indicator light on the top front of the LC7i illuminates. The factory setting is non-summed (separate).
2. Ground Isolation Selector: Alternator noise can occur if the source unit and amplifier use different grounding schemes. Alternative grounding connections are provided. Ensure the system is OFF before moving these jumpers. The factory setting is "Isolated" for best results.
3. GTO™: The GTO™ jumper enables/disables the Great Turn-On (GTO™) automatic turn-on circuit. Some vehicles have connected systems (e.g., mobile phone, assistance services) that can turn the factory amplifier on when the audio system is off. To prevent unexpected system turn-on, the GTO™ circuit can be bypassed by moving the GTO™ jumper and using an applied 12-volts at the Remote In terminal. However, defeating the GTO™ circuit may affect factory features that rely on communication via the factory amp and speakers. The LC7i is shipped with GTO™ in the "On" position.
4. AutoMode: Some vehicles have unusual signals on their speaker leads that the AutoMode circuit may not easily read. In such cases, the AutoMode function can be manually bypassed by moving the internal AutoMode jumper to "Defeat". In this mode, signal on the Channel 3 inputs is required for output signals on the Channel 3 output. The LC7i is shipped with jumpers in the "On" position. Refer to the "AutoMode Input" section under "More Highlights" on page 8 for more details.

Internal Jumper Configuration: The LC7i's internal jumpers are configured for Summed/Separate outputs (Main, Rear, Sub), AutoMode (On/Defeat), GTO (On/Defeat), and Ground Isolation (Isolated/Grnd/200Ω). The diagram shows connections for Main, Channel 2, and Channel 3 speaker inputs and line outputs.

A Guided Tour of LC7i

1. Speaker-level Inputs: The LC7i has six speaker-level inputs that receive signals from the factory-installed source unit or amplifier. If the source unit has front, rear, and subwoofer speaker-level outputs, connect them to the three sets of inputs. If the source unit only has front and rear outputs, the AutoMode circuitry automatically routes the Channel 2 signal to the Channel 3 (subwoofer) output. The GTO™ circuit monitors the main speaker inputs for signal presence. If the main speaker inputs are not used, GTO™ will not function.
2. AccuBASS™ Controls: The threshold and level controls determine when the AccuBASS™ circuit activates and the desired level of bass correction. More information is available on page 8.
3. Ground: Connect to a good, verified chassis ground. Factory radio ground wires with multiple connected devices are not recommended.
4. +12V Power: Connect to a good source of 12-volt power. Ensure a proper size fuse is installed on the power wire near the power source (e.g., battery) for protection against shorts or installation mishaps.
5. Remote In: In some installations, users may not want to use GTO™ to turn on the system. In these cases, the LC7i can be turned on remotely with a +12-volt trigger. When using the +12-volt remote in, set the internal GTO™ jumper to "Defeat" to prevent the car's network system from unexpectedly turning on the system.
6. Remote Out: Supplies 12 volts "+" when the LC7i is powered up, used to turn on external devices like signal processors and amplifiers. Fusing at 1 amp is recommended.
7. Maximized Indicator: This brightly colored LED indicates when the signal level is just below clipping within the LC7i. When properly level matched, this LED should flicker occasionally at maximum volume.
8. Power: If all power wires are connected correctly, this light should be bright red when the system turns on.
9. Optional (ACR-1) Dash Mounted Control Input: A dash control can be added to remotely set the subwoofer level.
10. Pre-Amp Outputs: These RCA plugs connect to the next component after the LC7i, such as a crossover or amplifier. Do not connect speakers directly to the LC7i outputs.
11. Output Levels: These knobs adjust the signal level from the source unit to match the input of aftermarket amplifiers. Ideally, the LC7i output should be high, and amplifier gain(s) kept as low as possible.
12. Channel Summed Indicators: Jumpers under the LC7i cover allow summing selected channels into the main (#1) channels, useful for factory-installed systems with actively crossed-over speaker systems. These indicator LEDs show which channels are being summed into the main inputs.

Awesome Information

AccuBASS™ Processing

Factory-installed amplifiers and speakers are not designed to reproduce bass frequencies at high volume levels; they often remove bass as volume increases. AudioControl developed the patent-pending AccuBASS™ circuit to restore this lost bass. After a quick one-time setting, the AccuBASS™ circuit adds bass as the factory system rolls off, providing smooth, seamless, and rock-solid bass response regardless of volume level. The AccuBASS™ operates to correct for factory bass roll-off, restoring bass to a flat response from a factory roll-off curve.

Setting the AccuBASS™ is a simple one-time operation:

1. After hooking up the system and listening to music, play something with a good bass line, and set the volume at low.
2. On the LC7i, set the AccuBASS™ Level Control to the 12:00 position.
3. Turn the Threshold fully down (counter-clockwise).
4. Turn up the volume on the stereo until the bass starts to drop out in relationship to the high frequencies, and leave the volume there.
5. Slowly turn up the Threshold control until the bass comes back up, and leave it in that position.
6. Adjust the level control to fine-tune the amount of bass restoration desired.
7. Once complete, every time the stereo reaches that volume, the AccuBASS™ will take over and restore the bass, providing smooth, seamless bass at all volumes. The level control can also be used for an extra kick to the bass.

More Highlights

Summed Outputs

The LC7i can combine multiple (2, 4, or 6) input signals from the factory source unit into 2 channels. In some vehicles with actively crossed-over tweeters, midranges, and woofers in the front, the LC7i allows summing all these signals into a high-quality, full-range, pre-amp signal. Move the summing jumper under the cover for the desired channel into the "Sum" position. A green LED for that channel indicates it is being summed into the main output.

AutoMode

The LC7i features AutoMode, designed to feed signal to the channel 3 section when the factory system only has front and rear outputs. AutoMode takes the channel 2 (rear) input signal and automatically feeds it to the channel 3 outputs to drive a subwoofer amp and crossover. This means the LC7i accepts two input channels (e.g., front and rear) and provides three output channels (front, rear, and sub).

ACR-1 Dash Control (Purchased Separately)

The ACR-1 is a remote that provides control over the level of the channel 3/Subwoofer output, allowing bass level adjustment from the driver's seat.

Placement and Mounting

The ACR-1 dash control can be mounted under the dash using its bracket or through a custom hole. It should be within reach of the driver and where the LED is visible. Mounting it in the trunk defeats its purpose.

Bracket Installation

The dash control mounts with two screws to the underside of the dashboard. Slide it under the dash, mark the mounting holes, drill pilot holes, and secure with two screws.

Custom Installation

For a custom, flush-mounted look, the dash control can be mounted directly on the dashboard. Disassemble the dash control from its mounting bracket by pushing the LED from its holder, then removing the circuit board and rotary control. Drill a 9/32" hole for the control, a 1/8" hole for the lock tab, and a 13/64" hole for the LED holder. Reassemble the ACR-1 components in the new custom location.

The Dash Control Assembly involves the rotary control, LED, and circuit board, which can be separated from the mounting bracket for custom flush installation.

Basic Factory Upgrade System

If the factory radio lacks a bass output, the LC7i provides it via AutoMode. In a basic setup, the factory installed radio connects to the LC7i via speaker-level inputs. The LC7i outputs connect to a 4-channel amplifier for front and rear speakers, and a bass amplifier for a subwoofer. The optional ACR-1 connects to the LC7i for remote bass level control.

Upgrade for Factory System with Remote Mounted Factory Amplifier

For systems with a remote-mounted factory amplifier, the LC7i integrates after the factory amplifier. The factory installed radio connects to the factory installed amplifier. The factory amplifier's high, midrange, and bass outputs connect to the LC7i's speaker-level inputs. The LC7i provides summed signal outputs to a 4-channel amplifier for tweeter and mid speakers, and a bass amplifier for a subwoofer. The optional ACR-1 connects to the LC7i for remote bass level control.

Block Diagram of the LC7i

This simplified block diagram illustrates the signal paths through the LC7i processor, aiding in understanding hook-up and troubleshooting.

Signal Flow:

• Main Input: Speaker-level signal is converted to pre-amp level, then routed through a Level Control to a Summing Mixer, which outputs to Main.
• Channel 2 Input: Speaker-level signal is converted to pre-amp level, then routed through a Level Control to a Summing Jumper, which can feed Channel 2 output.
• Channel 3 Input: Speaker-level signal is converted to pre-amp level, then routed through a Level Control and AccuBASS™ circuit to a Summing Jumper, which can feed Channel 3 output.
• AutoMode: If no subwoofer signal is present at Channel 3 input, AutoMode feeds Channel 3 from Channel 2.
• GTO™ Signal Sense: Monitors the Head Unit's +12 volt Remote On signal or senses audio signal to turn the LC7i on.
• Output +12V Turn On: The LC7i provides a +12V turn-on output for other products.
• Sub Level: A control for the subwoofer output level (Channel 3).

The WARRANTY

AudioControl offers a warranty designed to ensure customer satisfaction. The warranty covers materials and workmanship on the LC7i for one year from the purchase date, extended to five years if installed by an authorized United States AudioControl dealer. To qualify, certain conditions must be met:

1. The LC7i must be registered at www.audiocontrolregistration.com within 15 days of purchase.
2. The sales receipt must be retained as proof of purchase, showing when and from whom the unit was bought.
3. The LC7i must have been originally purchased from an authorized AudioControl dealer. A copy of the original sales slip is required, even if the owner is not the original purchaser.
4. The LC7i must only be serviced by the AudioControl factory or by someone authorized in writing by AudioControl. Unauthorized servicing voids the warranty.
5. The warranty is void if the serial number is altered or removed, or if the LC7i has been used improperly. Improper use includes: (A) physical damage (e.g., using it as a car jack); (B) improper connections (e.g., 120 volts into the power jack); (C) other sadistic actions.

LEGALESE SECTION

This is the only warranty given by AudioControl. This warranty provides specific legal rights that vary by state. Promises regarding the LC7i's performance are not implied by this warranty. AudioControl has no other obligations, express or implied, beyond what is covered. AudioControl is not obligated for direct or indirect consequential damage to a system caused by hooking up the LC7i. Failure to register warranty information negates any service claims.

LC7i SPECIFICATIONS

All specifications are measured at 14.4 VDC (standard automotive voltage). AudioControl reserves the right to change specifications as technology advances.

©2012 AudioControl, Inc. All rights reserved. AudioControl, Making Good Sound Great, LC7i, AccuBASS, GTO, and AutoMode are all trademarks of AudioControl Inc. This manual was conceived, designed, and written while on a road through the Pacific Northwest on a spectacularly rare, sunny, and cloudless day. The top was down and we were banging our head to 80's metal!