GENERAL INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

System Design

The success of any car stereo system relies on several factors, such as the system design, execution of the installation, and system setup. Please remember that any system is only as good as its weakest link.

Please remember that higher power systems are not necessarily useful purely for high sound pressure levels, but also to establish a headroom capability, to reproduce musical peaks cleanly without distortion. Lower power amplifiers will clip earlier than their more powerful cousins, and cause loudspeaker failure when overdriven, due to the harmonics generated by a clipped signal, thus overheating voice coils.

Amplifiers should be mounted with the fins running horizontally for best convection cooling, to minimize overheating. Purchase the best quality RCA cables you can afford, for reliability and less engine noise interference in the audio system.

Installation

WOOD

It is highly recommended that the amplifier be mounted to a board of MDF or other solid structure using the 4 mounting screws provided. Avoid mounting the

amplifier to metal as this can introduce noise and other unwanted issues. When mounting the amplifier, ensure that it is mounted HORIZONTALLY, as shown in the diagram above, for optimal heat dissipation. Mounting amplifiers to speaker enclosures is not recommended as this can cause damage to the amplifier components. When choosing a location for mounting the amplifier, ensure that you check for clearance from wires, gas tank, electrical devices and brake lines etc.

General:

Run the wiring so that RCA cables are at least 18“ away from power and speaker cables. Keep RCA cables away from electrical devices in the vehicle that can cause electrical noise, such as electric fuel pumps, emission control modules and other on-board electronic modules.

Power and ground connections(see the features matrix on page 6 for proper gauge cables per amplifier):

Use a sufficient gauge power cable and ground cable using the chart below as reference to what size wire you require. Samson series amplifiers require at least 4 gauge power wire. In a multi amplifier system, add the total value of the manufacture recommended fusing to get your total system amperage. Some applications may require multiple runs of power wire to meet the system requirements. In multi amplifier systems it is advisable to mount a large enough fuse right at the battery, and run one or multiple +12 volt power cables to a fused distribution block near the amplifiers. It is then a simple matter to connect the +12 volt terminal of each amplifier to the distribution block. During this process, please ensure that the main power fuse is removed to avoid shorting the electrical system. The main fuse must be within 12” of the vehicles battery.

Ground each amplifier with as short a ground lead as possible directly to the vehicle chassis using at least 4 gauge wire or equivalent to the size of the amplifiers’ power wire. Use a ground distribution block, if you wish, but it is extremely important to keep the main ground lead from this distribution block to the chassis as short as possible , not more than 12“. The ground connection integrity to the chassis is very important, and the best way to achieve a good, solid electrical and mechanical contact is to use a large round crimp lug, crimped and soldered to the ground cable. The next step is to scrape the paint off the vehicle chassis , slightly larger than the ground lug, at the connection point. Drill a clearance hole in the chassis, the same size as the lug hole, and use a bolt, spring washer and nut to securely fasten the ground lug. Use petroleum jelly to coat the bolt/lug connection, to prevent oxidization with time.

TIP: Use the same approach when installing head units, equalizers or any audio equipment for that matter - run short individual grounds from each piece directly to the vehicle chassis, to minimize ground loops and system noise. All power, ground and speaker connections should be crimped and soldered for reliability. Make sure that none of the cable insulation can chafe against exposed metal in the vehicle, causing short circuits to the chassis.

 

 

 

WIRE LENGTH

 

 

 

 

SYSTEM

7-10 ft.

10-13 ft.

 

13-16 ft.

16-19 ft.

19-22 ft.

22-28 ft.

 

AMPERAGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35-50

8

6

 

4

4

4

4

WIRE

50-65

6

4

 

4

4

4

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAUGE

85-105

4

2

 

2

2

2

0

68-85

4

4

 

2

2

2

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

105-125

4

2

 

0

0

0

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

125-150

2

0

 

0

0

0

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Safe connection sequence:

NOTE: This Matrix is a general rule of thumb. Please refer to the manufacturers specific requirements. Samson specifications can be found on page 6.

After all cables are run, connect speaker wires to the speakers and amplifiers, then run and plug in RCA cables. Next, connect all power, ground, and remote turn on leads. Now connect all +12 volt cables to the amplifier/s and distribution blocks and fuse holders. Finally, connect the main +12 volt cable to the battery, with the main fuse removed, and we are almost ready to power up the system.

Power up the system:

The following procedure may seem like overkill, but there is nothing more frustrating when turning on a system for the first time, and it does not work properly immediately.

First, make sure the head unit is off, and turn all level controls to minimum (counterclockwise), including the head unit volume control. Set all equalizers to 0 dB (no boost), and all crossover frequency controls at approximate frequencies, as recommended by the loudspeaker manufacturer. Set all input selector and crossover switches as required for the application. Remove all amplifier fuses, and insert the main fuse at the battery. If the fuse does not blow, you can insert the fuse in one of the amplifiers, and we are ready to turn on the system. Turn the head unit on, insert a CD, or select a radio station, and increase the head unit volume control. If the system sounds fine, turn off the head unit, and install fuses in the remaining amplifiers, one by one, till the complete system is powered up and functioning properly.

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Hifionics HS500.4, HS2500.1D, HS800.4, HS300.4, HS1500.1D manual General Installation Procedure, Wood

HS800.4, HS300.4, HS500.4, HS1500.1D, HS2500.1D specifications

Hifonics, a brand synonymous with powerful and reliable car audio equipment, has made significant contributions to the amplifier market with its HS series. This collection includes five impressive models: the HS2500.1D, HS1500.1D, HS500.4, HS300.4, and HS800.4. Each of these amplifiers is designed to deliver exceptional performance, ensuring that users enjoy their audio experience to the fullest.

The HS2500.1D is a monoblock amplifier that epitomizes power and efficiency with its rugged build and advanced Class D technology. Capable of delivering up to 2500 watts of max power, it enables users to drive even the most demanding subwoofers with ease, ensuring deep bass and clarity. This unit features a low-pass filter, adjustable gain control, and a variable bass boost that allows customization for different audio setups.

The HS1500.1D is another standout monoblock amplifier that brings a potent 1500 watts of max power output. This amplifier is engineered with a highly efficient design, which contributes to minimal heat generation and extended performance. It also comes with a low-pass filter and a bass boost feature, making it versatile for various sound preferences.

For those who need a versatile multi-channel amplifier, the HS500.4 model offers four channels of amplification. With a max power output of 500 watts, it is perfect for powering door speakers and subwoofers in a full sound system. Its high and low-level inputs provide flexibility in installation, allowing users to connect to virtually any audio source.

The HS300.4 is another four-channel amplifier, delivering a maximum output of 300 watts. It shares many of the same features as the HS500.4, including an adjustable low-pass filter, high-pass filter, and bass boost, providing users the ability to build a balanced audio environment tailored to their specific needs.

Finally, the HS800.4 offers a powerful solution with an impressive 800 watts of max power, ideal for anyone looking to maximize their in-car audio system. This amplifier includes features like a variable crossover and multiple speaker outputs, giving users the ability to fine-tune their sound.

All models in the Hifonics HS series are constructed with durability in mind, featuring heat-dissipating design elements to ensure long-lasting performance under heavy use. With a compelling mix of power, efficiency, and customization, the Hifonics HS amplifiers are perfect for both casual listeners and audiophiles seeking a premium sound experience in their vehicles.