Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the CX168 power amplifier. To help you obtain the best results from your purchase, we encourage you to carefully review this manual. With information including connections, configuration and operation, it offers many useful guidelines.

The CX168 provides a high level of channel density in a small, lightweight form factor ideal for multi-zone audio systems. Representing the culmination of QSC’s extensive experience in power amplifier development, the CX168 is a highly versatile, reliable, and user-friendly tool that will likely remain a central component of your system for years to come.

Like the entire CX Series, the CX168 is equipped with QSC’s exclusive PowerWaveTM switching power supply technology to virtually eliminate noise and hum while reducing the unit’s overall weight. Comprehensive protection circuitry includes DC, infrasonic, thermal overload and short circuit protection.

The CX168 includes 4 HD15 DataPorts (one per channel pair) for remote management or DSP. These ports allow each channel pair to be governed by QSControl, QSC’s audio networking system—enabling the system operator to control amplifier gain levels, check the unit’s clipping and thermal status, plus monitor numerous additional system parameters.

FRONT PANEL

FRONT PANEL WITH

SECURITY PLATE

Alternatively, these DataPorts facilitate connection of signal processing equipment, such as QSC’s DSP-3, which offers two channels of independent digital signal processing - including crossover filters, shelf filters, signal delay, compression, peak limiting, and parametric filters.

As individual channel pairs may be bridged, the CX168 is configurable as a 4-, 5-, 6-, 7-, or 8-channel unit. Further, the CX168 features detachable Phoenix-style input and output connectors—enabling the audio system to be wired with greater ease. Other features include 1-dB recessed and detented gain controls and a security cover for tamper-proof installations.

The CX168 is easy to use. All operating mode switches are grouped together on the rear panel, with one switchblock per channel pair. These switches enable clip limiter on/off, LF filter on/off, LF filter select and operation modes. The amplifier’s front panel includes corresponding LEDs to indicate Bridged or Parallel modes in addition to Signal and Clip status.

Your CX168 power amplifier was designed to provide many years of trouble-free, great-sounding operation. We hope you enjoy your new CX168.