Owners Manual: Asa Series Class A/B Amplifier
Owners Manual: Asa Series Class A/B Amplifier
Owners Manual: Asa Series Class A/B Amplifier
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ASA3-300.2
ASA3-400.2
ASA3-600.2
ASA3-800.2
ASA3-400.4
ASA3-600.4
ASA3-700.5
ASA3-1100.5
Thank you for your decision to purchase a PowerBass USA Autosound mobile amplifier! Our Autosound
amplifiers are the result of extensive engineering, testing, and bullet proof construction. Their versatility
enables compatibility with optional signal and audio processors. These high quality MOSFET amplifiers
may be configured to allow maximum flexibility in designing different types of speaker systems.
The PowerBass ASA3 Series are high quality MOSFET amplifiers that are capable of running a system full
range, or they may be selected only to power subwoofers. It is important that you closely follow the wiring
instructions contained in this Owners Manual so that you get the most from your PowerBass AutoSound
mobile amplifier.
∆ Caution ∆
High powered audio systems in a vehicle are capable of generating higher then “Live Concert” levels of sound pressure. Continued
exposure to excessively high volume sound levels will cause hearing loss or damage. Also, operation of a motor vehicle while listening
to audio equipment at high volume levels may impair your ability to hear external sounds such as horns, warning signals, or emergency
vehicles—thus creating a potential traffic hazard. In the interest of safety, PowerBass USA highly recommends listening at lower volume
levels when driving.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
• Low Profile Aluminum Finned Heatsink
• PWM MOSFET Power Supplies for High Power Output and Best Stability into Low Impedance Loads
• Variable High Pass and Low Pass Electronic Crossovers
• Soft Delay Remote Turn On/Off Circuit to Eliminating Pops and Clicks
• Fully Adjustable Bass EQ at 45Hz (18dB)
• Self Diagnostic Multi Protection Circuit with LED Status Indicator for Impedance Over-load, Speaker
Short Circuit, Thermal Overheating, and DC Output.
• 2-ohm Stereo Stable (4-ohm Mono Bridgeable)
• Custom Tooled Speaker and Power Terminal Blocks
• Variable Gain Control
• Level Control Port (for Optional Remote Level Control - model PB-GAIN1 sold separately)
• Low Level Line Inputs and Outputs
INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE
Installation of PowerBass mobile amplifiers requires detailed knowledge of electronics wiring and proper
speaker impedance. We strongly recommend installation by an authorized PowerBass dealer. This Own-
ers Manual only provides general installation and operation instructions. If you have any reservations
about your installation skills, please contact your local PowerBass dealer for assistance.
IMPORTANT : This amplifier is designed for operation in vehicles with 12-volt Negative ground
electrical systems only.
NOTE: The tools listed below may be required for basic installation
• An electric drill with bits
• Philips head and standard screwdrivers
• Wire strippers
• Crimping tool
• VOM (electronic volt ohm meter)
• Heat shrink tubing and heat gun
• Soldering iron
• Electronic (Rosen Core not Acid Core) Solder
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INSTALLATION PRECAUTIONS
NOTE: Proceed only if you are a qualified installer, otherwise; see your Authorized PowerBass
Dealer to professionally install this amplifier. Always wear protective eyewear when using
tools.
To keep your PowerBass Autosound amplifier running at top performance, choosing the proper location
is of utmost importance. For this reason the amplifier should be mounted in a location which will allow
air to circulate freely. A clearance of at least 2-inches (5 cm) to all sides of the amplifier is necessary
not only for proper cooling, but also for gaining access to the inputs and other variable controls. Be sure
that the power and signal cable connections can enter and leave the amplifier in a straight line to avoid
the risk of kinked wires causing malfunction.
MOUNTING LOCATION
Find a clear and well ventilated area to mount your amplifier that is unobstructed by any objects that will cause
harm or block ventilation. Do not mount under a carpet or in an area with no air circulation. Without proper
airflow the amplifier may over heat and go into protection where the thermal overload circuitry will shut down
the amplifier.
You may use the amplifier as a template and mark the four screw locations with a felt tip pen. Set the amplifier
aside before drilling. Use caution to make sure there are no objects behind the installation surface that may
become damaged during drilling.
If mounting under a seat, make sure there is at least 1-inch (2.5 cm) of space above the amplifier’s heatsink
to permit proper cooling.
The amplifier should be protected from exposure to moisture and direct sunlight. The best places to mount
your amplifier are: The floor of the trunk, under a seat, or on the back of the rear seat. For alternate installation
locations, please consult your authorized PowerBass Dealer.
NOTE: Do not use a drill with driver bit to mount the amplifier. Excessive force could
cause the plastic mounting feet to crack.
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CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT
3. GAIN Control
This control is used to match the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the particular source unit that you are
using.
7. BASS EQ Control
This equalization circuit is used to enhance the low frequency response of the vehicle’s interior. With up to
18dB of boost centered at 45Hz, the BASS EQ can be adjusted to meet your own personal taste.
9. BADGE Switch
Controls the lighting of the top mounted PowerBass logo badge.
Your PowerBass Autosound amplifier requires unrestricted current to deliver peak performance, so do not
“starve” your amplifier by using small power cable. Using under sized power cable can result in unnecessary
over-heating of the amplifier, distortion at high volume levels and might even cause the thermal protection
circuitry to shut-off the amplifier. For best results we recommend a PowerBass amplifier install kit, available
at your local PowerBass dealer.
• Use rubber grommets when running cables through any metal or sharp plastic, to prevent accidental
shorting or shearing. Make sure the cables do not interfere with normal operation of the vehicle.
• The audio signal cables (RCA interconnects) should be kept far away from any potential sources of
electrical interference such as electronic vehicle management systems (relays, engine computers etc.),
wiring harnesses, fuel pumps etc.
Fig.3 Power Input Connection
These amplifiers are designed to work within a 9 to 17 volt DC range. Before any wires are connected, the
vehicles electrical system should be checked for correct voltage supply with the help of a voltmeter.
First, check the voltage at the battery with the ignition in the OFF position. The voltmeter should read no
less than 12V. If your vehicles electrical system is not up to these specifications, we recommend having it
checked by an auto electrician before any further installation. Once the vehicle is checked, make certain the
correct gauge cable is used. We recommend using as large a gauge cable as possible, use the Power Cable
Selection Chart on page 20 to calculate the correct power wire size for your application. Remember Bigger is
Better!
BATT+ (POWER)
This amplifier should be wired directly to the vehicle battery using the appropriate size cable. Start at the
vehicle battery and run the power cable through to the amplifier. Avoid running the power cable over engine
components and near heater cores. The use of an inline fuse or circuit breaker is a must; this will
prevent the risk of a potential fire caused by a short in your power cable. Connect the fuse holder or circuit
breaker as close to the battery positive (+) terminal as possible (no farther then 18” from the battery). This
fuse or circuit breaker should be no greater then the sum of the fuses found on the chassis of your amplifier
(also see specifications chart). You may now connect the cable to the battery, but remember to leave the fuse
out or circuit breaker “off” until all other cable connections are made.
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GND (Ground)
When grounding your amplifier, locate a metal area close to the amplifier that is good source of ground
(preferable the floor pan). Once again, investigate the area you wish to use for electrical wires, vacuum lines,
and brake or fuel lines. Use either a wire brush or sandpaper to eliminate unwanted paint for better contact
of the ground.
Secure the ground cable to the body using a bolt, star washer and nut. Spread silicon over the screw and
bare metal to prevent rust and possible water leaks.
Now it’s time to connect the power and ground cables to the amplifier. Cut both cables to length.
Strip off 1/2 inch (12mm) of the insulation so that the bare wire fits all the way in the terminal block on the
side panel of the amplifier, seating it firmly so no bare wire is exposed. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the
BATT+ and the GND connection on the amplifier. Insert the ground first, and then the +12V and please make
sure that you place them into the correctly marked terminals. Then tighten the screws down securely - use
care not to over tighten and damage the wire.
Run a minimum of 18 gauge wire from the amplifier location to the source of the switched +12V lead. If
possible, route this wire on the same side of the vehicle as your power cable. Connect the source remote
output to the wire. Go back to the amplifier and cut the wire to length. Loosen the screw terminal marked
REM on the amplifier using an Allen wrench. Insert the stripped (bare) portion of the wire into the terminal
and tighten the screw securely.
FUSE REQUIREMENTS
While the panel on your PowerBass amplifier incorporates one or more fuses, these do nothing to protect
the vehicle from a dangerous short circuit. It is absolutely vital that the main power lead to the amplifier(s)
in the system be fused within 18-inches (45cm) of the connection to the vehicle battery. The value of this
fuse (or circuit breaker) should be no greater than the sum of the fuses found on all of the equipment being
connected to that power wire.
NOTE: It is highly recommended that a hand screw driver and NOT a power drill is used to
tighten the set screws on the terminal blocks. This will prevent stripping or other possible
damage to the amplifier.
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RCA INTERCONNECT WIRING
Be extra careful when routing your RCA audio interconnect cables. Car environments are notorious for poorly
insulated wires. This means that hiss, engine noise, and fan noise can easily be picked up through RCA
cables if run incorrectly.
Make sure that the cables for power and audio signal are not on the same side of the vehicle and that they
do not cross each other; this will help reduce any noise that may radiate from the power cable and the signal
cable. If an audio cable is too close to a power cable, it may pick up the magnetic field generated by the
power cable, which could lead to a loss of quality in your signal.
SET UP ADJUSTMENTS
Input GAIN Adjustment
GAIN
MIN MAX
0dB +18dB
Fig.7 Bass EQ Control
BASS EQ Adjustment
This special feature is designed to provide you more powerful sound quality, and it allows you to boost the real
Bass EQ up to +18dB. Keep in mind that more is not always better. Setting the control to the max (18dB) will
stress the amplifier and the speakers and could result in damage.
65Hz
40Hz 250Hz
Fig.8 High Pass Control (HPF)
HPF (High Pass Filter) Adjustment
When you are using coaxial or component speaker system, this allows you to adjust high-pass X-over fre-
quency from 40Hz to 250Hz. To get better sound quality from coaxial or component speaker system, we
recommend the frequency should be higher than 65dB. Make sure the X-OVER switch is positioned at “HPF”.
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40Hz 250Hz
Fig.9 Low Pass Control (LPF)
LPF (Low Pass Filter) Adjustment
Using this control, adjust the LPF frequency for your subwoofer speaker(s) operation. The X-OVER switch posi-
tion should be at “LPF”.
15Hz 40Hz
Fig.11 Sub Sonic Adjustment
SUB SONIC Adjustment
The sub sonic control will filter out all frequencies below where the control it is set from going to your
subwoofer(s). This will prevent your subs from playing any low frequencies that may harm the speaker.
SPECIAL CONTROLS FOR THE ASA3-1200.2
The following instructions apply to the model ASA3-1200.2 only. You will not find this switch on any
of the other models in this series.
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SPEAKER WIRING AND CONFIGURATIONS
Speaker Load
Keep in mind your PowerBass Autosound amplifier is a high power amplifier and not a high current amplifier.
In other words this amplifier requires a minimum impedance of 2 ohms STEREO and 4 ohms bridged
MONO to operate trouble free. Lower impedance will send the amplifier into protection and may possibly
damage the electronics inside.
Speaker Wiring
Choose the correct speaker wire for your application. Most applications will require a minimum of a quality
16 gauge wire. Route these using the same precautions as you did when you ran the power cable. Terminate
these wires at the speaker end using insulated speaker terminals (not supplied) or by soldering the connection.
Make sure the speaker connections are positive-to-positive and negative-to-negative.
At the amplifier end, it is very important that the wires are making solid contact. Strip the wires insulation back
approximately 1/2 inch (12mm) and insert the wires into the appropriate openings. Check to make sure you’ve
maintained proper polarity and balance.
CAUTION:
Maintaining proper impedance is critical when wiring the Class AB model amplifiers. Improper wiring can
cause severe damage to BOTH the speaker and the amplifier. Detailed wiring diagrams are supplied with all
PowerBass woofers. IF YOU ARE NOT EXPERIENCED OR UNCOMFORTABLE READING THE WIRING DIAGRAMS
CONSULT YOUR AUTHORIZED POWERBASS DEALER BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT TO WIRE THE SYSTEM.
Speaker Output Configurations 2 Channel Models (ASA3-200.2, ASA3-300.2,
ASA3-400.2, ASA3-600.2, ASA3-800.2)
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Speaker Output Configurations 4 Channel Models (ASA3-400.4, ASA3-600.4)
3. 4-Channel Speaker Output Connection
FRONT REAR
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RECOMMENDED WIRE SIZES
Power Cable Selection Chart
Fuse Total 4Ft 4-7Ft 7-10Ft 10-13Ft 13-16 Ft 16-19 Ft 19-22 Ft
In Amperes Length of Wire/Gauge
150A - 200A 2 GA 2 GA 2 GA *1/0* *1/0* *1/0* *1/0*
125A - 150A 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 2 GA 2 GA 2 GA
105A - 125A 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 2 GA
85A - 105A 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA
65A - 85A 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 4 GA 4 GA 4 GA
50A - 65A 10 GA 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA
35A - 50A 10 GA 10 GA 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA 8 GA
PowerBass makes several types of amplifier wiring kits to assist with the installation of your PowerBass amplifier. Consult
your local PowerBass dealer for details. For more information about recommended power wire check out our website at
www.powerbassusa.com.
PERSONAL NOTES:
Name: ______________________________________________________________
Dealer: _____________________________________________________________
Model: _____________________________________________________________
Miscellaneous: ______________________________________________________
This manual is the exclusive property of PowerBass USA, Inc. Any reproduction of this manual, or use other than its intentions
is strictly prohibited without the express consent of PowerBass USA, Inc. © Copyright 2014 PowerBass USA, Inc.
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Problem Solution
Power LED not ON With a Volt Ohm Meter (VOM) check:
• +12 Volt power terminal (should read +12 to +16VDC
• Remote turn-on terminal (should read +12 to
+16VDC)
• Ground Terminal
Power LED lights BLUE, no output • Check RCA connections
• Test speaker outputs with known good speaker
• Substitute known good Source Unit
• Check for signal on the RCA cable with VOM in AC
position
Red Status Protection LED is ON, no
output and
1. Amp is VERY HOT • Thermal protection is engaged. Check for proper
impedance at speaker terminals. Also check for
adequate air flow around the amplifier.
2. Amp shuts down ONLY when the • Voltage protection engaged. Voltage to the amp is
vehicle is running not within the 10-17 VDC operating range. Have the
battery/charging system inspected.
3. Amp plays at very low volume • Short circuit protection is engaged.Check for speaker
wires shorted to each other or the vehicle chassis.
Speakers operating below the minimum impedance
can cause this to occur.
Alternator noise (varies with RPM) • Check for damaged RCA cable.
• Check routing of RCA cable
• Check Source Unit for good ground
• Check amp gain setting, turn down if set too high
Poor Bass Response Check speaker polarity, reverse the connection
of one speaker only.
NOTE: If the Status L.E.D. is activated and glows RED with no speakers connected to the amplifier,
and all the power connections are correct, this would indicate an internal problem with the ampli-
fier. Contact PowerBass USA or your local dealer.
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SPECIFICATIONS FOR AUTOSOUND A/B AMPLIFIERS
Two Channel Models ASA3-200.2 ASA3-300.2 ASA3-400.2
4 Ohms Power (Watts) 50 x 2 75 x 2 100 x 2
2 Ohms Power (Watts) 100 x 2 150 x 2 200 x 2
4 Ohms Mono Power (Watts) 200 x 1 300 x 1 400 x 1
Peak Music Power (Watts) 400 600 800
THD <0.05% <0.05% <0.05%
Frequency Response 20Hz - 22kHz 20Hz - 22kHz 20Hz - 22kHz
S/N Ratio >94dB >94dB >94dB
Damping Factor >150 >150 >150
Input Sensitivity 0.2 - 6.0 Volts 0.2 - 6.0 Volts 0.2 - 6.0 Volts
Crossover Slope 12 dB 12dB 12dB
High-Pass Crossover Freq. (Hz) 40 - 250Hz 40 - 250Hz 40 - 250Hz
Low-Pass Crossover Freq. (Hz) 40 - 250Hz 40 - 250Hz 40 - 250Hz
Variable Subwoofer EQ 0/+ 18dB 0/+ 18dB 0/+ 18dB
Bass EQ Freq. 45Hz 45Hz 45Hz
Fuses/ ATC Style 1 x 15A 1 x 20A 2 x 15A
Dimension (2.3” H x 8.3” W) 9" L 9.8" L 12" L
Dimension mm (58 H x 210 W) 228 L 248 L 305 L
SPECIFICATIONS FOR AUTOSOUND A/B AMPLIFIERS Cont.
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SPECIFICATIONS FOR AUTOSOUND A/B AMPLIFIERS Cont.
Important Notes:
• Due to continuing improvements these specifications are subject to change without any notice.
• Do not attempt to fix or repair this unit. Unauthorized repairs will void the manufacturer’s warranty.
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NOTES
NOTES
POWERBASS AUTOSOUND LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY
PowerBass USA, Inc. offers limited warranty on PowerBass products under normal use on the following terms:
PowerBass Autosound Amplifiers are to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a
period of one (1) year.
This warranty applies only to PowerBass products sold to consumers by Authorized PowerBass Dealers in the United States
of America. Products purchased by consumers from a PowerBass dealer in another country are covered only by that coun-
try’s Distributor and not by PowerBass USA.
This warranty covers only the original purchaser of PowerBass product. In order to receive service, the purchaser must
provide PowerBass with the receipt stating the consumer name, dealer, product and date of purchase.
Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced (with a product deemed to be equiva-
lent) at PowerBass’s discretion and will not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. PowerBass will not warranty
this product under the following situations:
Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are limited in duration to the period of
the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow limitations on the length of an implied warranty, so this
limitation may not apply. No person is authorized to assume for PowerBass any other liability in connection with the sale
of this product.
Please call (909) 923-3868 for PowerBass Customer Service. You must obtain an RA# (Return Authorization Number)
to return any product to PowerBass. The RA number must be prominently marked on the outside of the shipping
carton or the delivery will be refused. Please pack your return carefully; we are not responsible for items damaged in
shipping. Return the defective product along with a copy of the original dated retail sales receipt, plus $12.00 for handling
and diagnostic evaluation to:
Residents of HI, AK and US territories will be charged for return shipping. All inquires regarding service and warranty should
be sent to the above address.