Troubleshooting your Car Audio Amplifier

Before removing your amplifier, refer to the list below and follow the suggested procedures. Always test the speakers and their wires first. 

Amplifier Will NOT Power UP or ON

Check for good ground connection.

Check that remote DC terminal has at least 7V DC. 

Check that there is battery power on the + terminal.

Check all FUSES.

Check that Protection LED is not lit. If it is lit, shut off amplifier briefly and then re-power it. 

 

High Hiss or Engine Noise (Alternator Whine) in Speakers 

Disconnect all RCA inputs to the amplifier, if hiss/noise disappears, then plug in the component driving the amplifier and unplug its inputs. If hiss/noise disappears, go on until the faulty/noisy component is found. 

It is the best to set the amplifier input level as insensitive as possible. The best subjective S/N ratio is obtainable this way. Try to drive as high a signal level from the head until as possible. 

Protection LED Comes ON when the amplifier is Powered UP 

Check for shorts on speaker leads.

Check that volume control on the head unit is turned down low. 

Remove speaker leads, and reset the amplifier. If the protection LED still comes on, then the amplifier is faulty.

The amplifier will shut down automatically when the units temperature got up to 80 degrees.

This will protect the unit from further damaging. 

 

Amplifier(s) Gets Very HOT

Check the minimum speaker impedance for that model is correct. 

Check for speaker shorts.

Check that there is good airflow around the amplifier. In some applications, an external cooling fan may be required. 

 

Distorted Sound

Check the Level Control(s) is set to mach the signal level of the head unit. 

Check that all crossover frequencies have been properly set.

Check for shorts on the speaker leads. 

 

High Squeal Noise from Speakers

This is always caused by a poorly grounded RCA patch cord. 

 

Warning 

1. Over high volume will damage your speakers.
2. Be cautious when you use the amplifier near gasoline tank and electric wires.
3. Protect the connecting wires and parts to avoid any damage or short circuit. 
4. The power must belee from anode of the battery via FUSE.
5. The sound system must be in turning-off situation when you check the amplifier 
6. Be sure that you use the same type of FUSE when you need to replace it.