Service / Warranty Information

All loudspeakers have electrical, thermal, and physical limits which must be observed to prevent damage or failure. Too much power, low frequencies applied to high frequency drivers, severely clipped waveforms, and DC voltage can all be fatal to cone and compres- sion drivers. The Crest Audio Professional Series amplifiers automatically protect speakers from DC voltages and subsonic signals. For more information, see the section on Protection Features. Mid- and high-frequency speakers, especially compression drivers, are high- ly susceptible to damage from overpowering, clipped waveforms, or frequencies below their rated passband. Be extremely careful that the low and mid bands of an electronic crossover are connected to the correct amplifiers and drivers and not accidentally connected to those for a higher frequency band. The amplifier’s clipping point is its maximum peak output power, and some of the higher power Crest Audio Professional Series amplifiers can deliver more power than many speakers can safely handle. Be sure the peak power capa- bility of the amplifier is not excessive for your speaker system.

To ensure that the speakers never receive excessive power and that the amplifier never clips, use a properly adjusted external limiter (or a compressor with a ratio of 10:1 or higher) to control power output; in systems with active electronic crossovers, use one for each fre- quency band. The clip limiter will automatically limit the duration of squared-off, continuous waveforms applied to the speakers. The amplifier will, however, allow normal musical transient bursts to pass. Of course, when the amplifier does clip, it is right at its maxi- mum output power. Some speaker systems are packaged with processors that have power limiting circuits and should not require addi- tional external limiting. Fuses may also be used to limit power to speaker drivers, although as current-limiting rather than voltage-lim- iting devices, they are an imperfect solution, and as the weakest links, they only limit once before needing replacement. Some poor quality fuses have a significant series resistance that could degrade the amplifier’s damping of the speaker’s motion and may even dete- riorate the system’s sound quality. If you elect to use fuses, check with the speaker manufacturer to determine the proper current rat- ing and time lag required.

Do not drive any low-frequency speaker enclosure with frequencies lower than its own tuned frequency; the reduced acoustical damp- ing could cause a ported speaker to bottom out even at moderate power. Consult the speaker system specifications to determine its fre- quency limits.

Use common sense…

it’s the most important facet of any speaker protection scheme.

Amplifier Maintenance and User Responsibility

If you use the air filter supplied with your Professional Series amplifier, the filter element must be cleaned or replaced periodically to maintain adequate airflow. How often you must do this depends on the environment in which you operate the amplifier. A very dusty environment will necessitate a shorter service interval than a less dirty one. To clean the element, unsnap the filter element/guard assem- bly from the fan housing, and remove the filter element. On two-piece guards, pry the two sides apart to remove the element. Wash and rinse the element using soap and water, then squeeze it dry and reinstall. Instead of cleaning, you may also cut a replacement element from a sheet of air conditioner foam filter material, using the old element as a pattern. Never operate an amplifier with a clogged fil- ter; it will quickly overheat. Replacement filter elements and element/guard assemblies can also be ordered from Crest Audio. A Professional Series amplifier requires no other routine maintenance and should never need any internal adjustment during its lifetime. Your Professional Series amplifier is very powerful and can be potentially dangerous to loudspeakers and humans alike. It is your responsibility to read the Important Precautions section and to make sure that the amplifier is installed, wired, and operated properly as instructed in this manual. Many loudspeakers can be easily damaged or destroyed by overpowering, especially with the high power available from a bridged amplifier. Read the Speaker Protection section and always be aware of the speaker’s continuous and peak power capabilities.

In the unlikely event that your amplifier develops a problem, it must be returned to an authorized distributor, service center or shipped directly to our factory. To obtain service, contact your nearest Crest Audio Service Center, Distributor, Dealer, or any of the worldwide Crest Audio offices. For contact information, reach Crest Audio Inc. Customer Service directly at: TEL 201.909.8700 (USA) FAX 201.909.8744 (USA). For technical inquiries only, the Crest Audio Technical Services department can be faxed at 201.587.0550 (USA).

Because of the complexity of the design and the risk of electrical shock, all repairs should be attempted only by qualified technical per- sonnel. If the unit needs to be shipped back to the factory, it must be sent in its original carton. If improperly packed, your amplifier may be damaged.

For those with Internet access, please visit the Crest Audio website at: http://www.crestaudio.com

Crest Audio Pro Series Power Amplifiers

Page 15

Stereo Amplifier specifications

The Crest Audio Stereo Amplifier has established a notable reputation in the audio industry, particularly among professionals seeking dependable and high-performance amplification solutions. Renowned for its robustness and exceptional sound quality, this amplifier is a popular choice for both live sound applications and studio settings.

One of the standout features of the Crest Audio Stereo Amplifier is its outstanding power output, which ensures that it can drive a wide range of loudspeakers with ease. Typically available in various power ratings, these amplifiers can provide significant wattage, allowing them to handle high-demand audio situations without distortion. This makes the Crest Audio amplifier an excellent choice for large venues, theaters, and event spaces.

The design of the Crest Audio Stereo Amplifier prioritizes efficiency and performance. Utilizing high-quality components, the amplifier is constructed with a rugged chassis and offers extensive heat dissipation to ensure longevity and reliability during prolonged use. This durability is particularly crucial in professional settings where equipment is often subjected to rigorous conditions.

In terms of technology, Crest Audio amplifiers incorporate advanced circuitry that enhances audio fidelity and minimizes noise. The use of Class AB amplification technology allows for a balanced performance that delivers both output power and audio clarity. This technology enables the amplifier to produce rich, warm tones, making it particularly effective for musical genres requiring dynamic range and precision, such as classical and jazz.

Another notable characteristic of the Crest Audio Stereo Amplifier is its comprehensive protection features. These amplifiers are designed with built-in thermal, short circuit, and overload protection, ensuring that the equipment can withstand potential hazards without compromising performance. The intuitive LED indicators provide visual feedback on the status of the amplifier, allowing users to monitor operation easily.

Connectivity is another essential factor, with Crest Audio amplifiers typically featuring a variety of input and output options. This flexibility enables integration with different audio systems, whether for simple stereo setups or complex multi-channel configurations. The professional-grade speakON and binding post outputs ensure secure connections to loudspeakers, promoting optimal performance.

Overall, the Crest Audio Stereo Amplifier is a reliable, high-performance solution for any audio professional. With its powerful output, sturdy construction, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, this amplifier continues to be a top choice for delivering exceptional sound quality in various applications. Whether in a studio environment or a live concert setting, the Crest Audio Stereo Amplifier stands out as a trusted tool for achieving audio excellence.