Hifonics Brutus Elite BRE Amplifier Manual
Hifonics Brutus Elite BRE Amplifier Manual
Hifonics Brutus Elite BRE Amplifier Manual
To insure years of listening pleasure, all amplifiers have a built in diagnostic mode that will detect shorted speaker
leads, low impedance, dangerous high temperatures, DC shorts and will shut down the amp to help prevent
damage.
INDEX PAGE
General Installation Procedure............................................................................................................................................1
BRE100.2 Applications.........................................................................................................................................................3
BRE2000.1D Applications....................................................................................................................................................7
BRE2500.1D Applications....................................................................................................................................................8
Product Warranty................................................................................................................................................................12
The contents of this manual may not be reproduced or copied with out the written consent of MAXXSONICS USA, Inc.
GENERAL INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
System Design
The success of any car stereo system relies on several factors, such as the system design, execution of the installation, and system setup. Please
remember that any system is only as good as its weakest link.
Please remember that higher power systems are not necessarily useful purely for high sound pressure levels, but also to establish a headroom capability, to
reproduce musical peaks cleanly without distortion. Lower power amplifiers will clip earlier than their more powerful cousins, and cause loudspeaker failure when
overdriven, due to the harmonics generated by a clipped signal, thus overheating voice coils.
Amplifiers should be mounted with the fins running horizontally for best convection cooling, to minimize overheating. Purchase the best quality RCA cables you can
afford, for reliability and less engine noise interference in the audio system.
Installation
BRUTUS
WOOD
It is highly recommended that the amplifier be mounted to a board of MDF or other solid ELITE
structure using the 4 mounting screws provided. Avoid mounting the
amplifier to metal as this can introduce noise and other unwanted issues. When mounting
the amplifier, ensure that it is mounted HORIZONTALLY, as shown in the diagram above, for
optimal heat dissipation. Mounting amplifiers to speaker enclosures is not recommended as
this can cause damage to the amplifier components. When choosing a location for
mounting the amplifier, ensure that you check for clearance from wires, gas tank, electrical
devices and brake lines etc.
General:
Run the wiring so that RCA cables are at least 18“ away from power and speaker cables. Keep RCA cables away from electrical devices in the vehicle that can cause
electrical noise, such as electric fuel pumps, emission control modules and other on-board electronic modules.
Power and ground connections(see the features matrix on page 11 for proper gauge cables per amplifier):
Use a sufficient gauge power cable and ground cable using the chart below as reference to what size wire you require. Brutus series amplifiers require at least 4
gauge power wire. In a multi amplifier system, add the total value of the manufacture recommended fusing to get your total system amperage. Some applications
may require multiple runs of power wire to meet the system requirements. In multi amplifier systems it is advisable to mount a large enough fuse right at the battery,
and run one or multiple +12 volt power cables to a fused distribution block near the amplifiers. It is then a simple matter to connect the +12 volt terminal of each
amplifier to the distribution block. During this process, please ensure that the main power fuse is removed to avoid shorting the electrical system. The main fuse must
be within 12” of the vehicles battery.
Ground each amplifier with as short a ground lead as possible directly to the vehicle chassis using at least 4 gauge wire or equivalent to the size of the amplifiers’
power wire. Use a ground distribution block, if you wish, but it is extremely important to keep the main ground lead from this distribution block to the chassis as short
as possible , not more than 12“. The ground connection integrity to the chassis is very important, and the best way to achieve a good, solid electrical and mechanical
contact is to use a large round crimp lug, crimped and soldered to the ground cable. The next step is to scrape the paint off the vehicle chassis , slightly larger than
the ground lug, at the connection point. Drill a clearance hole in the chassis, the same size as the lug hole, and use a bolt, spring washer and nut to securely fasten
the ground lug. Use petroleum jelly to coat the bolt/lug connection, to prevent oxidization with time.
TIP: Use the same approach when installing head units, equalizers or any audio equipment for that matter - run short individual grounds from each piece directly to
the vehicle chassis, to minimize ground loops and system noise. All power, ground and speaker connections should be crimped and soldered for reliability. Make sure
that none of the cable insulation can chafe against exposed metal in the vehicle, causing short circuits to the chassis.
WIRE LENGTH
SYSTEM
7-10 ft. 10-13 ft. 13-16 ft. 16-19 ft. 19-22 ft. 22-28 ft.
AMPERAGE
NOTE: This Matrix is a general rule
35-50 8 6 4 4 4 4
of thumb. Please refer to the
WIRE GAUGE
50-65 6 4 4 4 4 2
68-85 4 4 2 2 2 0
manufacturers specific
85-105 4 2 2 2 2 0 requirements. Brutus specifications
105-125 4 2 0 0 0 0 can be found on page 11.
125-150 2 0 0 0 0 0
The 4 channel amps have the same features as the 2 channel models accept that there are 2 sets of
BRE60.4 / BRE100.4 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS
controls.
1 set for channels 1 & 2 and 1 set for channels 3 & 4. CH1/2 CH3/4 REMOTE HI PASS CH1/2 X-OVER LOW PASS BASS EQ LEVEL POWER LINE OUTPUT
In addition, the 4 channel models have a Mode switch which allows you to select 2 or 4 channel
L L
operation. Switch to 2 channel if you only have 1 set of RCA’s in CH 1/2 and the unit will automatically 10Hz 15kHz
HI FULL LP/BP
30Hz 150Hz 0dB 10dB 6.0V 0.2V PROTECT
supply signal to channels 3/4. Select 4 channel if you are providing RCA’s to channels 1/2 and 3/4.
R R
The X-OVER slide switch selects the internal crossover functions: 2CH 4CH
10Hz 15kHz
HI FULL LP/BP
30Hz 150Hz 0dB 10dB 6.0V 0.2V
LINE INPUT MODE HI PASS CH3/4 X-OVER LOW PASS BASS EQ LEVEL
-The input signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, regardless of the X-OVER setting
simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers.
-HI: Selects the built in HI PASS filter.
-FULL: Bypasses all crossovers for full frequency range operation. Note that the LOW PASS signal is MONO.
-LP/BP: Selects the built in LOW PASS filter. -In the LP/BP position, the HI PASS filter acts as a subsonic
HI PASS: Variable low frequency cut off from 10Hz to 15kHz.
LOW PASS: Variable high frequency cut off from 30Hz to 150Hz. filter.
BASS EQ: 45Hz bass boost variable from 0dB to 10dB. -When the LP/BP mode is selected, a 0 to +10dB, at 45Hz,
LEVEL: Variable LEVEL (GAIN) control from 6.0V to 0.2V. BASS EQ is also switched in.
LINE INPUT: The line input accepts unbalanced (RCA) inputs from 0.2V to 6V.
LINE OUTPUT: The line output passes through signal from the line inputs which allows you to daisy
chain multiple amplifiers from one signal.
SUBSONIC: Crossover filter from 15Hz to 35Hz. BRE1100.1D / BRE1600.1D / BRE2000.1D MONO BLOCK AMPLIFIERS
LOW PASS: Crossover filter from 30Hz to 250Hz.
LEVEL: Adjusts the input sensitivity from 0.2 volts to 9 volts.
BALANCED SUB
BASS EQ: Adjustable bass boost from 0db to 10dB. INPUT OUTPUT INPUT LEVEL PHASE REMOTE BASS EQ SONIC LOW PASS
POWER
PHASE: The Phase Shift is fully adjustable from 0 to 180 degrees and this allows you to control time L L
PROTECT
alignment. 9V 0.2V 0 180 0dB 10dB 15Hz 35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
REMOTE: This is the input jack for the remote Level control. R R
BALANCED INPUT: Accepts line level balanced input from 0.4v to 18v.
LINE INPUT: The line input accepts unbalanced (RCA) inputs from 0.2V to 9V.
LINE OUTPUT: The line output passes through signal from the line inputs which allows you to daisy
chain multiple amplifiers from one signal. The mono amps are capable of 4, 2 & 1-Ohm loads.
-The LINE INPUT signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, and not affected by the Operating the amp below 1-Ohm can cause damage to the
settings on the amplifier simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers. amp not covered in the warranty.
PHASE: The Phase Shift is fully adjustable from 0 to 180 degrees and this allows you to control time L L
REMOTE: This is the input jack for the remote Level control. INPUT
SLAVE OUT
BALANCED INPUT: Accepts line level balanced input from 0.4v to 18v.
LINE INPUT: The line input accepts unbalanced (RCA) inputs from 0.2V to 9V.
LINE OUTPUT: The line output passes through signal from the line inputs which allows you to daisy The mono amps are capable of 4, 2 & 1-Ohm loads.
chain multiple amplifiers from one signal.
-The LINE INPUT signal is routed directly to the LINE OUT RCA jacks, and not affected by the Operating the amp below 1-Ohm can cause damage to the
settings on the amplifier simplifying daisy chaining of amplifiers. amp not covered in the warranty.
The BRE2500.1D is a linkable amplifier and features a MASTER / SLAVE selection switch and IN /
OUT RCA connection.
2
BRE100.2 2-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
FULL RANGE STEREO
This is the most basic application for the ELITE Series 2 channel amplifiers. 4. Line Level:
Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best performance”
1. Interconnect cable checklist:
Connect the LINE INPUTS to the Radio/CD with good quality RCA cables. NOTE: Minimum final loudspeaker impedances:
2. Crossover Switch: 4 & 2 Ohms stereo mode or 4-Ohms mono mode
The X-OVER switch must be in the FULL position. This amplifier will not do 1 Ohm stereo or 2/1 Ohm mono operation.
3. Crossover frequency control checklist:
N/A for full range operation.
FULL RANGE
FULL RANGE
SPEAKERS
STEREO LINE INPUT LINE INPUT
R
- LEFT +
SPEAKER OUTPUT
REMOTE10Hz 15KHzHP FULL LP/BP
BRIDGED
BRUTUS
- RIGHT +
HI PASS
X-OVER
ELITE
30Hz 150Hz 0dB 10dB 6V 0.2V PROTECT
FUSE
LOW PASS
BASS EQ
REM BATT+12V
TO BATTERY +12v
LEVEL
POWER INPUT
VIA FUSE
REMOTE TURN-ON
POWER
CHASSIS GROUND
GND
LINE OUT
R
MONO
This application illustrates the basic mono bridging method for all Hifonics Switch setting checklist:
amplifiers. - The AMPLIFIER X-OVER switch should be in the LP/BP position.
MONO SPEAKER
or SUBWOOFER
LINE INPUT
R
- LEFT +
SPEAKER OUTPUT
REMOTE10Hz 15KHzHP FULL LP/BP
BRIDGED
FULL RANGE
MONO LINE INPUT BRUTUS
- RIGHT +
HI PASS
VIA Y-ADAPTER
FROM MONO SOURCE
X-OVER
ELITE
30Hz 150Hz 0dB 10dB 6V 0.2V PROTECT
FUSE
LOW PASS
BASS EQ
REM BATT+12V
TO BATTERY +12v
LEVEL
POWER INPUT
VIA FUSE
REMOTE TURN-ON
POWER
CHASSIS GROUND
GND
LINE OUT
R
3
BRE60.4 / BRE100.4 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
4 CHANNEL FULL RANGE SYSTEM
Here we show how to use the 4 channel amplifiers as straightforward discrete 4 - HI PASS: N/A
channel full range units. - LOW PASS: N/A
R
L
CH1/2 CH3/4
LINE INPUT
- LEFT +
BRUTUS
BRIDGED
CH 1/2 SPEAKER OUTPUT CH 3/4
R
L
- RIGHT +
CH2-CH4
REMOTE
MODE10Hz-15KHz HI FULL LP/BP
- LEFT +
HI PASS
HI PASS
BRIDGED
ELITE
- RIGHT +
3/4 CH
X-OVER
X-OVER
1/2 CH
30Hz-150Hz 0dB-10dB 6V 0.2V
FUSE
REM BATT+12V
LEVEL POWER LINE OUT
LEVEL
POWER INPUT
GND
R
L
2 or 3 CHANNEL SYSTEM
Here we show how to use the 4 channel amplifiers as a 3 channel unit by taking Switch setting checklist:
advantage of the mono bridging capability of all Hifonics amplifiers. - 1/2CH X-OVER: FULL
- 3/4CH X-OVER: LP/BP
The following example shows how to create a 3 channel system by mono
bridging channel pair 3 / 4. In order to create a 2 channel system, simply follow Crossover frequency control checklist:
the example to also mono bridge channel pair 1 / 2. Channels 1/2:
- HI PASS: N/A
Interconnect cable checklist: - LOW PASS: N/A
- Connect the inputs of channel pair 1/2 to a suitable stereo source, e.g. a head
unit with good quality RCA cables. Channels 3/4:
- A MONO signal source is required to bridge channel pair 3/4, such as would be - HI PASS: N/A
available from the mono sub bass output of an active crossover, whether - LPF: 11 o’clock
standalone, or built into a head unit or equalizer. If you only have 1 set of RCA
outputs from your headunit, you can simply connect those to the inputs for ch TIP: If you are using the mono sub bass output of an active crossover, there is
1/2 and switch the MODE to 2ch. The amplifier will auto sum the signal and nothing wrong with switching in the low pass filter in these amplifiers for a
provide mono output for bridged channels 3/4 once the X-OVER is switched to steeper low pass rolloff.
LP/BP.
Important: Do not be tempted to connect the hot, or positive outputs, from any Level control checklist:
source together to obtain a mono signal, as this could very well damage the - Refer to the section “Setting up systems after installation for best performance”
output stage of that source.
- It is necessary to feed the SAME signal to both left and right inputs via a Y- Minimum final loudspeaker impedances:
adapter RCA cable. - 2 ohm per channel in stereo mode.
- Connect the mono speaker positive terminal to the LEFT +, and its negative - 4 ohm mono bridged.
terminal to RIGHT - as shown.
STEREO LINE INPUT
R
L
CH1/2 CH3/4
LINE INPUT
- LEFT +
- RIGHT +
CH2-CH4
REMOTE
- LEFT +
HI PASS
HI PASS
BRIDGED
ELITE
- RIGHT +
3/4 CH
X-OVER
X-OVER
1/2 CH
30Hz-150Hz 0dB-10dB 6V 0.2V
FUSE
REM BATT+12V
LEVEL POWER LINE OUT
LEVEL
POWER INPUT
GND
R
L
4
BRE60.4 / BRE100.4 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
Front/Rear high pass, using a 2 channel amplifier for mono sub bass
The combination of a 2 and a 4 channel amplifier, utilizing their built in Channels 1/2:
crossovers, makes it a snap to put together a full system with front and rear - HI PASS: 100 Hz
highs, with mono sub bass. LOW PASS: N/A
CH1/2 CH3/4
LINE INPUT
- LEFT +
BRIDGED
CH 1/2 SPEAKER OUTPUT CH 3/4
BRUTUS
R
L
- RIGHT +
CH2-CH4
REMOTE
MODE
10Hz-15KHz HI FULL LP/BP
- LEFT +
HI PASS
HI PASS
BRIDGED
ELITE
- RIGHT +
3/4 CH
X-OVER
X-OVER
1/2 CH
30Hz-150Hz 0dB-10dB 6V 0.2V
FUSE
REM BATT+12V
LEVEL POWER LINE OUT
LEVEL
POWER INPUT
GND
R
L
STEREO
INTERCONNECT
RCA CABLE MONO SPEAKER
or SUBWOOFER
LINE INPUT
R
- LEFT +
SPEAKER OUTPUT
REMOTE10Hz 15KHzHP FULL LP/BP
BRIDGED
BRUTUS
- RIGHT +
HI PASS
X-OVER
ELITE
30Hz 150Hz 0dB 10dB 6V 0.2V PROTECT
FUSE
LOW PASS
BASS EQ
REM BATT+12V
TO BATTERY +12v
LEVEL
POWER INPUT
VIA FUSE
REMOTE TURN-ON
POWER
CHASSIS GROUND
GND
LINE OUT
R
5
BRE1100.1D / BRE1600.1D MONO AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
Basic application
Interconnect cable checklist:
- Connect the line inputs to a Radio/CD RCA outputs or line output of the Minimum final loudspeaker impedance:
full range primary amplifier with good quality RCA cables. A “Y” adapter - 1 ohm.
may be needed as shown in the diagram.
- Use at least 16 gauge speaker wiring. These amplifiers have dual FULL RANGE
speaker terminals, simplifying the hookup of multiple speakers. The 2 STEREO LINE INPUT Y-ADAPTOR
positives are the same and the 2 negatives are the same.
MONO
SUBWOOFER
R
INPUT
1-OHM MINIMUM
* DESIGNATED
OUTPUT
+
R
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+
BALANCED
INPUT
BRUTUS
-
9V
LEVEL
-
0.2V
0
PHASE
ELITE
180
BOOST
FUSE
REMOTE
0dB
BASS EQ
HFR -
3 MI
N MAXX
10dB
15Hz
SONIC
SUB
TO BATTERY +12v
BATT+12V
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
VIA FUSE
POWER INPUT
LOW PASS
REMOTE TURN-ON
REM
CHASSIS GROUND
GND
PROTECT
POWER
INPUT
* DESIGNATED
OUTPUT
MONO
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+
BALANCED
SUBWOOFERS
INPUT
BRUTUS
-
9V
LEVEL
-
0.2V
0
PHASE
ELITE
180
BOOST
FUSE
REMOTE
0dB
BASS EQ
HFR -
3 MI
N MAXX
10dB
15Hz
SONIC
TO BATTERY +12v
SUB
BATT+12V
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
VIA FUSE
POWER INPUT
LOW PASS
REMOTE TURN-ON
REM
CHASSIS GROUND
GND
PROTECT
POWER
6
BRE2000.1D MONO AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
Basic application
Interconnect cable checklist:
- Connect the line inputs to a Radio/CD RCA outputs or line output of the Minimum final loudspeaker impedance:
full range primary amplifier with good quality RCA cables. A “Y” adapter - 1 ohm.
may be needed as shown in the diagram.
- Use at least 16 gauge speaker wiring. These amplifiers have dual FULL RANGE
speaker terminals, simplifying the hookup of multiple speakers. The 2 STEREO LINE INPUT Y-ADAPTOR
positives are the same and the 2 negatives are the same.
INPUT
* DESIGNATED
OUTPUT
+
SPEAKER OUTPUT
BALANCED
+
INPUT
BRUTUS
-
9V
LEVEL
-
0.2V
REM
REMOTE TURN-ON
0
PHASE
ELITE
180
BOOST
REMOTE
0dB
BASS EQ
HFR -
3 MI
N MAXX
10dB
CHASSIS GROUND
15Hz
GND
POWER INPUT
SONIC
SUB
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
TO BATTERY +12v
BATT+12V
LOW PASS
VIA FUSE
PROTECT
POWER
INPUT
OUTPUT
* DESIGNATED
MONO LINE INPUT
R
MONO
SPEAKER OUTPUT
BALANCED
BRUTUS
+
SUBWOOFERS
INPUT
-
9V
LEVEL
-
0.2V
REM
0
PHASE
ELITE
180
BASS EQ
HFR -
3 MI
N MAXX
10dB
15Hz
CHASSIS GROUND
GND
POWER INPUT
SONIC
SUB
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
TO BATTERY +12v
BATT+12V
LOW PASS
VIA FUSE
PROTECT
POWER
7
BRE2500.1D MONO AMPLIFIER APPLICATIONS
Basic application
SINGLE AMP INSTALLATION PROCEDURE:
FULL RANGE
1. Connect the amp LINE INPUTS to the Radio/CD player full range or mono line out
STEREO LINE INPUT Y-ADAPTOR
puts with good quality RCA interconnect cables.
2. Plug in the HFR-3 remote module into the amp REMOTE INPUT jack.
3. Route a 0 gauge power cables directly to the vehicle battery with an in-line fuse.
4. Connect a 0 gauge ground cables directly to chassis ground with in 36” of the amp.
- Be sure to remove any paint or primer from the ground point. NOT USED
- Use a nut, bolt and lock washer to secure the ground cable to the chassis ground.
5. Connect the subwoofer(s) in accordance to the diagrams below. Note: You can use the Radio/CD designated mono line output
6. Make sure the MASTER/SLAVE switch is in the MASTER position. or a full range stereo line output. For full range stereo line
Note: The amplifier will not work if the MASTER/SLAVE switch is in the Slave position output, you will need an optional “Y-Adaptor” as shown.
MONO
R
INPUT
SUBWOOFER
OUTPUT
PARALLEL MONO
R
+
SUBWOOFERS
BALANCED
BRUTUS
INPUT
DESIGNATED
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+
2 OHMS EACH MINIMUM
9V
LEVEL
MONO OUTPUT
-
0.2V
-
0
PHASE
REM
180
ELITE
0dB
HFR -
3 MI
N MAXX
10dB
POWER SPEAKER
+12V GND - - + +
15Hz
REM
SONIC
SUB
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
LOW PASS
GND
POWER INPUT
CHASSIS GROUND
BATT+12V
TO BATTERY + 12 Volts
VIA FUSE
MASTER
OUTPUT
PROTECT
POWER
SLAVE
INPUT
OUT
IN
DUAL AMP INSTALLATION PROCEDURE: 4. Route two 0 gauge power cables directly to the vehicle battery with an in-line fuse.
1. Connect the amp LINE INPUTS to the Radio/CD player full range or mono line out 5. Connect two 0 gauge ground cables directly to the chassis with in 36” of the amp.
puts with good quality RCA interconnect cables. - Be sure to remove any paint or primer from the ground point.
2. Plug in the HFR-3 bass remote module into the amp REMOTE INPUT jack on the - Use a nut, bolt and lock washer to secure the ground cable to the chassis ground.
Master amp. This will allow the Master amp to control both Master and Slave amps 6. Make sure the Master amp MASTER/SLAVE switch is in the MASTER position.
with just one Bass Remote. Make sure the Slave amp MASTER/SLAVE switch is in the SLAVE position.
3. Connect an RCA jumper cable from the Master amp MASTER OUTPUT to the 7. Connect the subwoofer(s) in accordance to the diagrams below.
Slave amp SLAVE INPUT. Note: This will “link” the amps so that the Master amp 8. Connect a 12 gauge jumper from Master amp speaker - to Slave amp speaker - as
crossover switches will control both the Master and Slave amps. The Slave amp shown below.
crossover switches will be bypassed.
Linking two amps for single or dual subwoofer application
Amplifiers are stable to 2-Ohms linked
R
INPUT
DESIGNATED
OUTPUT
MONO OUTPUT
FROM HEAD UNIT
R
+
BALANCED
INPUT
BRUTUS (MASTER)
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+
9V
LEVEL
-
0.2V
-
0
PHASE
REM
180
BOOST
REMOTE BASS EQ
ELITE
12 GAUGE JUMPER WIRE
0dB
HFR -
3 MI
N MAXX
SONIC
SUB
LINKED
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
IN
LOW PASS
GND
POWER INPUT
OUTPUT
BATT+12V
MASTER
INPUT OUT
MASTER
OUTPUT
SLAVE
PROTECT
POWER
SLAVE
INPUT
OUT
IN
MASTER OUTPUT TO SLAVE INPUT
INPUT
OUTPUT
RCA JUMPER CABLE
+
BALANCED
INPUT
BRUTUS
SPEAKER OUTPUT
+
9V
(SLAVE)
LEVEL
-
0.2V
-
0
PHASE
REM
180
REMOTE BASS EQ
ELITE
0dB
10dB
15Hz
SONIC
SUB
35Hz 35Hz 250Hz
IN
LOW PASS
GND
POWER INPUT
OUTPUT
BATT+12V
MASTER
INPUT OUT
MASTER
OUTPUT
SLAVE
PROTECT
POWER
SLAVE
INPUT
OUT
IN
8
SETTING UP SYSTEMS AFTER INSTALLATION FOR BEST PERFORMANCE
BRE100.2 / BRE60.4 / BRE100.4
General:
At this point you are ready to get more specific on the settings for your amplifier.
High Pass:
-When in Hi Pass operation, this setting acts as a low frequency cut off for your system reproduction. The point that you set it at cuts off any frequencies from reproduction beyond this
point. The 12 o’clock position is a great starting point. EXAMPLE: If you adjust the High Pass to 100Hz, the amplifier will not play frequencies below 100Hz but will play frequencies from
100Hz to the highest frequency the amplifier is capable of reproducing.
-When in Low Pass/Bandpass operation, this setting acts as a low frequency cut off for your system reproduction aka Subsonic Filter. The point that you set it at cuts off any frequencies
from reproduction beyond this point. The 12 o’clock position is a great starting point. EXAMPLE: If you adjust the High Pass to 60Hz, the amplifier will not play frequencies below 60Hz
but will play frequencies from 60Hz to the chosen Low Pass frequency.
-When in Flat/Full operation, the Low Pass crossover is bypassed.
Bass EQ:
This setting is a fixed bass boost at 45Hz that is variable from 0-12dB. This feature provides impact to your bass, but if not adjusted correctly, it can be over used and cause damage to
your speakers and amplifiers. It is best to slowly turn this setting clockwise until the desired punch is felt. It is not recommended to exceed the 12 o’clock position unless listening at a low
volume or a low recording quality as this can result in high distortion and possibly clipping.
Low Pass:
The Low Pass control acts as a ceiling and doesn’t allow frequencies to the right of the desired setting to be reproduced. Turning the potentiometer all the way to the right is a great
starting point. EXAMPLE: If you adjust the Low Pass to 120Hz, the amplifier will not play frequencies above 120Hz but will play frequencies from 120Hz to the chosen Hi Pass or
Subsonic frequency.
-When in Hi Pass operation, this setting is bypassed.
If you are not sure what the Radio output sensitivity is, follow these general guide lines:
Turn the level control up slowly, till you hear distortion, then back off a few degrees on the control. If at any point your amplifier goes into protection, you will need to turn the Level to the
left a bit and then try again. If you reach a point where the output does not increase, stop turning the Level control to the right as the amplifier/speaker combo has reached its maxx
output in this application.
General:
At this point you are ready to get more specific on the settings for your amplifier.
Subsonic:
This setting acts as a low frequency cut off for your system bass reproduction. The point that you set it at cuts off any frequencies from reproduction beyond this point. The 12 o’clock
position is a great starting point. EXAMPLE: If you adjust the Subsonic to 25Hz, the amplifier will not play frequencies below 25Hz but will play frequencies from 25Hz to the chosen Low
Pass frequency.
Bass EQ:
This setting is a fixed bass boost at 45Hz that is variable from 0-10dB. This feature provides impact to your bass, but if not adjusted correctly, it can be over used and cause damage to
your subwoofers and amplifiers. It is best to slowly turn this setting clockwise until the desired punch is felt. It is not recommended to exceed the 12 o’clock position unless listening at a
low volume or a low recording quality as this can result in high distortion and possibly clipping.
Low Pass:
The Low Pass control acts as a ceiling and doesn’t allow frequencies to the right of the desired setting to be reproduced. The 12 o’clock position is a great starting point. EXAMPLE: If you
adjust the Low Pass to 80Hz, the amplifier will not play frequencies above 80Hz but will play frequencies from 80Hz to the chosen Subsonic frequency.
If you are not sure what the Radio output sensitivity is, follow these general guide lines:
Turn the level control up slowly, till you hear distortion, then back off a few degrees on the control. If at any point your amplifier goes into protection, you will need to turn the Level to the
left a bit and then try again. If you reach a point where the output does not increase, stop turning the Level control to the right as the amplifier/subwoofer combo has reached its maxx
output in this application.
9
TROUBLESHOOTING A SYSTEM
The key to finding the problem in a misbehaving sound system is to isolate parts of that system in a logical fashion to track down the fault.
Should the amplifier go into diagnostic mode, simply disconnect all RCA and speaker leads, while keeping +12 volt, power ground and remote leads connected.
1. Now turn the amplifier back on, and if the diagnostic LED lights, the amplifier has an internal fault.
2. If not, plug the RCA cables back, and reset the amplifier. If it goes into diagnostic now, the fault lies in the input, either with bad cables or source unit.
3. If the amplifier seems ok with RCA cables plugged in, connect the speakers, one at a time, and if one of speaker or its wiring is faulty, it will activate the diagnostic
system.
4. If the amplifier is still in Protection mode after the above steps, remove all RCA’s and wires from the amplifier. Take a 12” length of speaker wire, trim the plastic
off of each end exposing the wire. Now connect one end of the wire to the12V+ on the amplifier and connect the other to the Ground on the amplifier. You will have
a brief spark indicating that the Capacitors have been discharged and the drivercard has been reset. Remove the jumper wire and reconnect your Power, Ground
and Remote wires. Attempt to power the amplifier up like normal. In some cases this can Reset the amplifier if permanent damage has not previously been done.
Fuses blowing
1 - The use of loudspeaker impedances below the recommended minimums will draw more current - check.
2 - A short on the main +12 volt cable from the battery to the vehicle chassis will cause the main fuse to blow.
3 - If an amplifier fuse blows continually, with only +12 volt, ground and remote leads connected, the amplifier may be faulty.
Electrical interference:
The inside of an automobile is a very hostile electrical environment. The multitude of electrical systems, such as the ignition system, alternator, fuel pumps, air conditioners,
to mention just a few, create radiated electrical fields, as well as noise on the +12 volt supply and ground. Remember to isolate the problem - first unplug amplifier input RCA
cables, if the noise is still present, check the speaker leads, if not, plug the RCA’s back, and investigate the source driving the amplifier, one component at a time.
A constant whine:
This type of noise can be more difficult to pinpoint, but is usually caused by some kind of instability, causing oscillations in the system.
1 - Check all connections, especially for good grounds.
2 - Make sure that no speaker leads are shorting to exposed metal on the vehicle chassis.
3 -RCA cables are notorious for their problematic nature, so check that these are good, in particular the shield connections.
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11
BRUTUS
ELITE SERIES
Maxxsonics Limited Warranty
As the manufacturer of Maxxsonics, MB Quart, Autotek, Crunch and Hifonics car audio
products, Maxxsonics USA Inc. Warrants to the original consumer purchaser the
amplifier to be free from defects in material and workmanship for one (1) Year from date
of purchase.
All other parts and accessories of the system are warrantied to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for one (1) year from date of purchase. Maxxsonics will repair
or replace at it’s option and free of charge during the warranty period, any system
component that proves defective in materials and workmanship under normal installation,
use and service provided that the product is returned to the authorized Maxxsonics dealer
from where it was purchased. A photo copy of the original receipt must accompany the
product being returned.
Valid purchase receipts will contain the name and address of the authorized reseller.
Any damage to the product as a result of misuse, abuse, accident, incorrect wiring,
improper installation, alteration of date code or bar code labels, revolution, natural
disaster, or any sneaky stuff because someone messed up, repair or alteration out side
of our factory or authorized service centers and any thing else you have done that you
should not have done is not covered.
This warranty is limited to defective parts and specifically excludes any incidental or
consequential damages connected therewith. This warranty is not to be construed as an
insurance policy.
Warranty on installation labor, removal, re-installation and freight charges are not the
responsibility of Maxxsonics USA Inc.
12
Accessories
5V ON
SLAVE
3V 7V
MASTER OFF
35Hz 250Hz 1V 9V 15Hz 35Hz
MODE LOW PASS RED - CLIP OUTPUT TEST TONE SUBSONIC
FILTER GREEN - 9V LEVEL 65Hz FILTER
24 dB/OCT 24 dB/OCT
MAXX-LINK
MLX-100
-6dB
BYPASS
RED - CLIP
-20dB 0dB GREEN - 9V
NORMAL LEVEL
13
OEM Integration
Accessories
MX-1 Premium High To Low Level Converter MX-3 Bass Controller
MX-2 Deluxe High To Low Level Converter MX-4 Add A Sub High To Low Level Converter
* Converts High Level OEM speaker wires to Ultra Clean RCA * Converts High Level OEM speaker wires to Ultra Clean RCA Low Level
Low Level Outputs Outputs
* High Level Inputs: Accepts all types of High level Inputs * High Level Inputs: Accepts all types of High level Inputs including
including floating ground and high voltages up to 30 volts. floating ground and high voltages up to 30 volts.
* Audio Signal Sense / Hardwire Turn-On: Audio sense detects * Audio Signal Sense / Hardwire Turn-On: Audio sense detects music
music signals from the OEM wires and activates the MX-2. As signals from the OEM wires and activates the MX-4. As an option, the
an option, the module also offers a remote turn-on wire. module also offers a remote turn-on wire.
* Remote Output: Driver circuit to turn on amplifier when module * Remote Output: Driver circuit to turn on amplifier when module activates.
activates.
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PART#: A1210