System Configuration

By purchasing the 160SE power amplifier, you are already one step closer to experiencing the purest and most natural sound quality in the automobile environment. To take full advantage of the potential of this amplifier, before installation, we strongly recommend that you acquaint your- self with all its available features and then spend some time in designing a system most suitable for you, consider the components you have now and those that you plan on adding or upgrading in the future.

BUILT-IN ELECTRONIC CROSSOVERS

An electronic crossover has many advantages over passive crossovers - lower cost, simplified yet more flexible system design, lower distortion and higher gain structure. The 160SE power amplifier is equipped with built-in 18 dB per octave electronic crossovers that can be configured for full-range, high-pass or low-pass applications. The line output is designed to provide addition- al expansion capability to your sound system.

BI-AMPLIFICATION

A bi-amplified system normally consists of an active crossover and two amplifiers. The active crossover divides the audio frequency spectrum into two ranges: frequencies below the crossover point are directed to the amplifier driving the subwoofer(s), while all frequencies above the crossover point are directed to the amplifier driving the mid-range/tweeters.

Because of the versatility of the Coustic amplifiers, you are quite free to build whatever mobile audio system you want or to plan a long term expansion scheme for your car’s audio system. For example, with the low impedance input, you can use the amplifier as a full-range amplifier to upgrade your existing factory sound system to drive the front full-range speakers. Or you can make a "parallel" connection on the amplifier to run both the front and rear speakers.

The full-range line output can be used to drive an additional amplifier driving the rear full-range speakers.

You can also configure the amplifier as a mid/tweeter amplifier.

If you need more power, you can bridge the amplifier as a mono subwoofer amplifier.

3 CHANNEL CONFIGURATION

The Multi-Function Circuit enables the amplifier to be configured as a 1-channel, bridged, mono amplifier driving a single speaker, 2-channel, stereo amplifier driving a pair of speakers, or quasi 3-channel amplifier.

The bridged mono mode is commonly used for subwoofer amplification. The amplifier provides more power in the bridged mono mode than it does in stereo mode.

With the assistance of passive crossovers and in its quasi 3-channel mode, the amplifier can be configured as a 2-way amplifier driving a pair of left- and right-channel, full-range mid-tweeters and a mono woofer. Care must be taken to choose capacitors and inductors of correct value; otherwise damage could be done to the speakers and/or the amplifier.

For approximate passive crossover components value, please refer to Coustic’s website, http//:www.coustic.com.

SPEAKER IMPEDANCE

Although extremely low impedance speaker loads will not damage the amplifier, for stereo mode, we recommend speaker loads of 2, 4 or 8 ohms; for bridged mono mode 4 or 8 ohms. (Note: In bridged mono mode, the amplifier sees only half of the speaker impedance.)

NOTE: Remember that we are not defying the laws of Physics! IF you decide to connect ANY Coustic amplifier into a bridged mono load BELOW 4 ohms, Physics dictates that current draw doubles! Be ready!

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POWER CABLES

Power cables are as important as battery capacity. Use only high quality power cables of gauge size AWG 8 or bigger for installation.

YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO BIG OF A POWER/GROUND WIRE!

CIRCUIT BREAKER/FUSES

It is also advisable to install a circuit breaker/fuse close to the battery. This would effectively lower the risk of the power cable catching fire should a short circuit occur in the audio system. A circuit breaker or fuse with 50% of the main batteries amp hour rating is recommended. Going larger in circuit breaker or fuse value means that you have NO protection.

DO NOT over fuse! Fuses on the amplifier DO NOT protect the amplifier, they protect the car.

SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS & ACCESSORIES

Quality equipment and proper system design and installation are the ingredients for the ultimate car audio system. With your wise decision to purchase this Coustic amplifier, you are already one big step closer to realizing your dream. The next step is simple - have an experienced pro- fessional Coustic dealer install your audio system. However, if you prefer to install the system yourself, we have the following commendations for your reference:

Caution: Improper installation will void the product warranty and Coustic is not responsible for any consequential damage to the amplifier and/or other audio components and/or electrical com- ponents of the vehicle.

TERMINALS, LUGS AND CONNECTORS

High current terminals, lugs and/or connectors are also required to ensure a safe and sure elec- trical connection and conduction.

NEGATIVE GROUNDING SYSTEM

The 160SE power amplifier is designed for use with a 12-Volt negative ground system. Installing this amplifier in a vehicle with a POSITIVE ground system will result in severe damage to the amplifier, other audio components and/or the vehicle’s electrical components. If your vehicle hap- pens to run on a positive ground system, please consult your Coustic dealer.

WARNING: These power amplifiers are very powerful. We strongly recommend installation in the following manner:

(1)by professional mobile audio installers; and

(2)incorporating all of the above special precautions and accessories.

Failure to comply with either one or both of the above conditions will render the warranty void and Coustic is not responsible for any consequential damage to the amplifier, other audio compo- nents and/or electrical components of the vehicle.

160SE specifications

The Coustic 160SE is a powerful and versatile audio amplifier that has gained popularity among audio enthusiasts and professionals alike. Designed to offer superior sound quality and robust performance, the 160SE is well-suited for various applications, ranging from home theater setups to professional sound reinforcement.

One of the standout features of the Coustic 160SE is its impressive power output. Capable of delivering up to 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms, this amplifier ensures that users can enjoy rich and dynamic audio reproduction. This level of power provides ample headroom, enabling the 160SE to handle demanding soundtracks and intricate audio with ease. The amplifier's low total harmonic distortion (THD) rating guarantees that the audio remains clean and undistorted even at high volumes.

The 160SE employs advanced circuit design and high-quality components to maximize its performance. The use of high-grade capacitors and inductors contributes to improved efficiency and sound clarity. Additionally, the unit features a built-in thermal protection system that safeguards the amplifier from overheating, ensuring long-lasting operation and reliability.

One of the key technologies present in the Coustic 160SE is its class AB amplification. This design combines the best aspects of class A and class B amplifiers, resulting in improved linearity and reduced distortion while maintaining efficiency. Users will appreciate the warm and natural sound signature that is characteristic of class A/B designs. The amplifier also includes variable crossover controls, allowing users to tailor the sound to best fit their specific audio needs.

The Coustic 160SE is equipped with multiple input options, including both low-level RCA inputs and high-level (speaker wire) inputs, making it compatible with a wide range of audio sources. The rear panel features comprehensive binding posts for easy speaker connections, as well as gain controls for each channel, enabling precise level adjustments.

For those seeking an amplifier that combines power, versatility, and quality, the Coustic 160SE stands out as an excellent choice. Its robust features, coupled with its advanced technologies, ensure that it delivers a stellar audio experience for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. Whether used in a home audio system, for live sound monitoring, or in a professional studio, the 160SE is designed to meet and exceed expectations.