Memphis Audio SE3200.10 Mono Amplifier

Introduction

Memphis Audio has a 50-year legacy in the audio industry, engineering high-quality products for an optimal listening experience. This manual provides instructions for installation and use. It is recommended that all installations and service be performed by an authorized Memphis Audio dealer.

For optimal performance, Memphis recommends using only Memphis Connection accessories. Properly sized accessories will boost the listening experience and increase product durability.

Features

• Extruded aluminum heatsink
• Variable crossovers
• Remote bass knob (mono)

Specifications

Crossover and Controls

Low Level Output: (MONO Amps) Use this output connection to feed the audio signal to additional amplifiers.

Gain: The gain control is not a volume control. It adjusts the amount of signal required to drive the amplifier to full output. With the gain at full clockwise rotation, less signal voltage is required. With the gain at full counter-clockwise rotation, more signal voltage is required. For optimal performance, set the gain control to minimum.

Low Pass Filter (LPF): This crossover/filter removes high-frequency information from a speaker, preventing mid-bass speakers or subwoofers from reproducing frequencies they are not designed for. The crossover frequency is adjustable from 50Hz to 250Hz with a 12dB per octave slope. Engage the LPF by sliding the switch to the LPF position. Adjust frequency by rotating the dial; clockwise increases frequency, counter-clockwise decreases it. Subwoofers are typically set between 80Hz and 100Hz.

Full Range: Sliding the selector switch to this position turns off all crossovers, allowing a full-range signal to pass. Select the flat position when using outboard electronic crossovers.

Installation Information

Memphis Audio recommends installation by an authorized dealer. Attempting installation yourself may result in product damage and void the warranty.

Amplifiers are typically mounted in the hatch/trunk area of cars or SUVs, or behind the seat in pickup trucks. Choose a location with adequate ventilation. Avoid mounting with fins facing down. Secure the amplifier using the provided screws.

Notes on the Power Supply

Connect the +12V power input lead only after all other leads have been connected. Ensure the ground wire is securely connected to a metal part of the car; a loose connection can cause malfunction.

Remote: The unit turns on by applying +12V to the terminal. A standard 18 AWG wire is sufficient. If the radio has a power antenna control wire, it can drive this terminal. If the power antenna wire is in use, splice into it so the unit turns on automatically with the radio.

Place the fuse in the power supply lead as close as possible to the car battery. During full power operation, maximum current runs through the system. The wire connecting the +12V and GND terminals must be 10 AWG or larger.

System Planning

Proper system planning maximizes amplifier performance and reliability. Consult an authorized dealer for system design and installation assistance.

Most car audio speakers are 4Ω impedance. Connecting two 4Ω speakers in parallel results in a 2Ω load. Some subwoofers have a dual 4Ω voice coil design; connecting these coils in parallel results in a 2Ω nominal impedance.

Wiring Configurations

Series Wiring

Diagram shows two 4Ω speakers connected in series, resulting in an 8Ω load. The positive terminal of the first speaker connects to the negative terminal of the second speaker. The amplifier's positive and negative terminals connect to the remaining ends.

Parallel Wiring

Diagram shows two 4Ω speakers connected in parallel, resulting in a 2Ω load. The positive terminals of both speakers connect together, and the negative terminals of both speakers connect together. These combined positive and negative connections are then made to the amplifier.

Series/Parallel Wiring

Diagram shows a configuration with multiple speakers. For example, two 4Ω speakers wired in series (creating an 8Ω load) are then connected in parallel with another set of two 4Ω speakers wired in series (creating another 8Ω load). This results in a 4Ω load for the amplifier.

Troubleshooting

Test speakers and speaker wires first when troubleshooting.

Distorted Output

• Check speakers; they may be blown. Test with known working speakers and repair or replace as needed.
• Amplifier level sensitivity may be set too high. Reset gains according to the tuning section.
• Impedance load to the amplifier may be too low. Check speaker impedance load; if below 2Ω stereo or 4Ω mono, rewire speakers for higher impedance.
• Speaker wires may have shorts. Check and repair/replace if necessary.
• Speakers not connected properly to the amplifier can cause distortion. Check and repair connections as needed, referring to the installation section.

Poor Bass Response

• Speakers may be wired incorrectly. Check speaker polarity, as incorrect polarity can cause cancellation at low frequencies. Repair as needed.
• Crossovers may be set incorrectly. Reset crossovers according to the manual's configuration section.

Battery Fuse Blowing

• Impedance load to the amplifier may be too low. Check impedance load; if below 2Ω stereo or 4Ω mono, rewire speakers for higher impedance.
• Short in the power wire or incorrect power connections. Check and repair power/ground connections.
• Fuse may be smaller than recommended. Replace with the proper sized fuse.

Amplifier Fuse Blowing

• Too much current being drawn. Check speaker impedance load; if below 2Ω stereo or 4Ω mono, rewire speakers for higher impedance.
• Possible short in the power wire. Check power and ground connections and repair as needed.
• Fuse may be smaller than recommended. Replace with the properly sized fuse.

No Output

• Low or no remote turn-on voltage. Check and correct remote turn-on voltage output at the amplifier.
• Blown fuses. Check power wire integrity and reverse polarity. Repair and replace fuses as needed.
• Power wire may not be connected. Check power and ground wires; repair or replace as needed.
• Audio input not connected or no output from source. Check input connections and signal integrity; repair or replace as needed.
• Speaker wires loose or not connected. Check wires and repair or replace as needed.

Audio Cycles On and Off

• Speakers may be blown. Test with a working speaker and repair or replace as needed.
• Thermal protection engages when the amplifier heatsink exceeds 90°C (194°F). Ensure proper ventilation. Improve ventilation or change mounting locations as needed.
• Loose or poor audio inputs can cause inconsistent signal. Check input connections and repair or replace as needed.

Service & Returns

Consult your local authorized dealer for issues. Contact Memphis Audio customer service at 800-489-2300 or techsupport@memphiscaraudio.com for assistance. Do not return the amplifier without a return authorization number. Units received without one will be processed more slowly. A copy of the purchase receipt from an authorized dealer is required for in-warranty service; otherwise, repair charges will apply. Units without a receipt will be held for 30 days for contact before being returned unrepaired.

WARNING: For safety, inspect mounting locations carefully to avoid drilling into electrical, hydraulic, fuel, or fluid lines. Always check speaker load with a multimeter before connecting the amplifier. Connecting a speaker load lower than the rated impedance will damage the amplifier, and such damage is not covered under warranty. Pay close attention to all connections.

If uncertain or uncomfortable with installation, contact your local authorized Memphis Audio Dealer.