Getting Started With I-Tech

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

Welcome! Operating your I-Tech amplifier can be as simple or advanced as you wish. Right out of the box, it works like any other amplifier with stereo loudspeaker loads.

•For bridge-mono operation, see page 5.

•If you want to control and monitor the amplifier with Crown’s IQ System® software, see Section 4.5.4. If you are going to use SystemArchitect, please follow the information included with System Architect.

•If you want to load DSP presets or perform diagnostics using the amplifier’s LCD control screen (Figure A.3), see Section 4.2.

You can refer to this Quick-Start Guide to get up and running quickly. To learn about I-Tech’s many advanced features, please see the rest of this manual.

Quick-Start Guide: Stereo Wiring

Let’s assume that you unpacked and installed your amplifier with the proper cooling. If not, see Section 2 in this manual. We’ll also assume that you will operate the amplifier in stereo. If you want to operate your amplifier in bridge-mono, skip to page 5.

1. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier. Unplug its power cord from the AC outlet. The amplifier must be grounded when plugged into AC power.

2. See Figure A.1. Connect two cables from your mixer output to the amplifier’s XLR input con- nectors.

3. Using Class 2 wiring, connect speaker cables either to the amplifier’s Speakon® connectors (as in Figure A.2) or to the binding posts (as in Figure A.1.)

4. Turn down your mixer master faders. Plug the power cord into the amplifier and then into an AC outlet. Turn on the front-panel power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up (Figure A.3).

5. Using both Encoder knobs (Level controls), set Attenuation to 0 dB. Press the Menu/Exit button, then the Next button, to access CH1 Sensitivity. Turn an Encoder knob fully down (CCW) until the minimum dB gain is displayed. Then press Next and repeat for CH2 Sensitivity. See Appendix B for details.

Figure A.1 Rear-panel Connections for Stereo Wiring

6. Play a program through your mixer. Set its level to peak at 0 dB or 0 VU maximum on the mixer meters. Gradually turn up (CW) the amplifier Encoder knobs (Level controls) to the desired volume for CH2. Press Prev and repeat for CH1. Press Exit when done.

Note: If the SPL is too high at the beginning of Step 6, press Menu/Exit, then press Next until you see ADVANCED MENU. Push an Encoder knob. Press Next until you see MAXIMUM ANA- LOG INPUT. Press an Encoder knob so the display reads 21 dBu. Press Menu/Exit twice. Press Next. CH1 Sensitivity will be displayed. Gradually turn up (CW) the left Encoder knob to the desired volume for CH1. Press Next and repeat for CH2. Press Exit when done.

CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages exist at the output connec- tors when the amplifier is turned on and is passing a signal.

Figure A.2 Wiring Two Speakers to Two Speakon Con- nectors for Stereo Operation

Top Speakon (Channel 1)

Channel 1

Loudspeaker

Bottom Speakon (Channel 2)

Channel 2

Loudspeaker

Figure A.3

The LCD Control Screen

page 4

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series specifications

The Crown Audio I-Tech Series represents a pinnacle of power amplification technology, designed to meet the demanding needs of live sound reinforcement and installation applications. Renowned for their flexibility, efficiency, and sound quality, these amplifiers integrate cutting-edge features that appeal to both professional audio engineers and musicians alike.

One of the key technologies employed in the I-Tech Series is the use of DriveCore technology. This innovative design allows the amplifiers to achieve high power output while minimizing size and weight. The DriveCore technology combines the efficiency of Class D amplification with superior sound quality, yielding a lightweight solution that maintains high fidelity and low distortion even at peak volumes.

The I-Tech Series amplifiers come equipped with a comprehensive suite of digital signal processing (DSP) capabilities. Each amplifier integrates sophisticated DSP algorithms that enable advanced speaker management, including extensive equalization, delay settings, and limiting controls. This ensures optimal performance for a variety of loudspeakers and installation scenarios, allowing users to tailor the output to the specific acoustical environment.

Connectivity is another strong point for the I-Tech Series. The amplifiers often include a variety of input options, providing flexibility for different setups, whether analog or digital. The inclusion of Ethercon connectivity enables seamless integration into a networked environment, allowing for remote control and monitoring via Crown's sophisticated software interface. Users can access real-time data about the system's performance, making adjustments on-the-fly to maintain optimal sound quality.

Durability and reliability are fundamental characteristics of the Crown I-Tech amplifiers. Built to withstand the rigors of touring and the demands of permanent installations, these amplifiers are housed in rugged enclosures that dissipate heat effectively while maintaining a compact form factor. Integrated protection circuits safeguard against over-temperature, over-current, and short-circuits, ensuring longevity even under extreme conditions.

In terms of power output, the I-Tech Series features a range of models, each capable of delivering substantial wattage to drive large sound systems with authority. The efficient cooling design allows for extended use without compromising performance, making them suitable for both large concerts and smaller venues.

In summary, the Crown Audio I-Tech Series amplifiers combine advanced technologies, including DriveCore and flexible DSP, to deliver powerful and high-quality audio performance. Their robust design, comprehensive connectivity options, and tailored control make them a premier choice for audio professionals seeking reliable and effective amplification solutions.