Reference Series
Reference Series
If, after reading your manual, you still have questions regarding this product, we recommend that you see
your MB Quart dealer. If you need further assistance, you can call us direct at 1-800-962-4412. Be sure to
have your serial number, model number and date of purchase available when you call.
The serial number can be found on the outside of the box. Please record it in the space provided below as
your permanent record. This will serve as verification of your factory warranty and may become useful in
recovering your amplifier if it is ever stolen.
Serial Number:___________________________________________
Model Number: __________________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11
Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Set-up Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Design Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 Front End Defeat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9 Crossover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Installation Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Bass Eq . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Mounting Locations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Gain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Battery and Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Wiring the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
Remote Level and Frequency Boost Controller 9 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Limited Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
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GETTING STARTED
Welcome to MB Quart! This manual is designed to provide information for the owner, salesperson and
installer. For those of you who want quick information on how to install this product, please turn to the
Installation Section of this manual. Other information can be located by using the Table of Contents. We, at
MB Quart, have worked very hard to make sure all the information in this manual is current. But, as we are
constantly finding new ways to improve our product, this information is subject to change without notice.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This symbol with “WARNING” is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important instructions. Failure to heed the instructions will
result in severe injury or death.
CAUTION: To prevent injury and damage to the unit, please read and follow the instructions
in this manual. We want you to enjoy this system, not get a headache.
CAUTION If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself, have it installed by a
qualified MB Quart technician.
CAUTION Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent
damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.
CONTENTS OF CARTON
The hardware kit included with each amplifier contains the mounting hardware necessary to secure the
amplifier to the vehicle.
Visit our web site for the latest information on all MB Quart products.
www.mbquart.com
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DESIGN FEATURES
Controls
1. Gain Adjuster – These can be adjusted to match output levels from a variety of source units individually
for the left and right inputs.
2. Phase Switch – The phase is a variable control used to adjust the phase of the output signal relative to
the phase of the input signal. The phase warp is most noticeable when the system is playing a sine wave
(test tone). When used with the proper test equipment, this feature can increase the relative SPL (Sound
Pressure Level) in a system. Adjustable phase from 0 to 180°.
3. Subsonic Filter – A variable, 15Hz to 50Hz, High Pass filter designed to prevent frequencies below the
audio range from being applied to the subwoofer from the amplifier. Consequently improving subwoofer
performance and power handling, particularly in vented enclosures.
4. Power LED – This Green LED illuminates when the unit is turned on.
5. Protect LED – This Red LED illuminates if a short circuit or too low of an impedance is detected at the
speaker connections or if the amplifier reaches thermal protection. The amplifier will automatically shut
down if this occurs.
6. Bass EQ - Q = Quality Factor. Q changes the effective bandwidth of the boost control at the selected
frequency. Higher Q values reduce the effective bandwidth, lower Q values, increase the effective
bandwidth with an adjustable frequency control variable from 25Hz to 160Hz.
7. LPF Frequency Crossover – Is a built-in 12dB/octave Butterworth Low Pass filter with a crossover point
variable from 50Hz to 250Hz.
8. Front End Defeat – Used to reroute the input signal around the signal processing circuitry within the
amplifier. While in the ON position, all gain, bass eq and crossover functions are bypassed.
9. Clipping LED Indicator – This Yellow LED illuminates if clipping is detected for either speaker output.
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DESIGN FEATURES
Connections
Left Side
Right Side
1. RCA Line Output Jacks – These outputs provide a convenient source for daisy-chaining an additional
amplifier without running an extra set of RCA cables from the front of the vehicle. These are pass-thru
only and are not effected by crossover or gain adjustments.
2. RCA Input Jacks – The industry standard RCA jacks provide an easy connection for line level input. They
are plated to resist the signal degradation caused by corrosion.
3. Remote – This RJ-45 cable connection is used for connecting the remote Level and Frequency Boost
controller that can be installed in a variety of ways for easy control access. One control attenuates Gain
set on the amplifier from 0 to -20dB. The other control is used for boosting the set frequency on the
amplifier from 0 to +12dB. The remote also has Power and Protect LED indicators for the amplifier.
4. Speaker Plug Receptacle – Receptacle for the speaker plug connector. These connectors (+ and –) will
accept wire sizes from 12 AWG to 18 AWG. Speaker outputs are wired in parallel internally.
5. Fuses – These ATC fuses are easily accessible in case of failure. Always replace fuses with same type and
rating. See Specifications for fuse ratings.
6. Power Plug Receptacle – Receptacle for the power plug connector. The power (+12V DC) and ground
wire connectors will accommodate up to a 2 AWG wire. The Remote wire connector will accommodate
sizes from 12 AWG to 18 AWG. The Remote terminal is used to remotely turn-on and turn-off the
amplifier when +12V DC is applied.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
The following is a list of tools needed for installation:
Volt/Ohm Meter Hand held drill w/assorted bits
Wire strippers 1/8" diameter heatshrink tubing
Wire crimpers Assorted connectors
Wire cutters Adequate Length—Red Power Wire
#2 Phillips screwdriver Adequate Length—Remote Turn-on Wire
Battery post wrench Adequate Length—Black Grounding Wire
This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for installing your new amplifier.
Pre-planning your system layout and best wiring routes will save installation time. When deciding on the
layout of your new system, be sure that each component will be easily accessible for making adjustments.
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INSTALLATION
CAUTION: If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself, have it installed by a
qualified technician.
CAUTION: Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent
damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.
Before beginning any installation, follow these simple rules:
1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before attempting to install the unit.
2. For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to beginning the installation.
3. For easier assembly, we suggest you run all wires prior to mounting your unit in place.
4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any high current wires.
5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to minimize signal or power loss.
6. Think before you drill! Be careful not to cut or drill into gas tanks, fuel lines, brake or hydraulic lines,
vacuum lines or electrical wiring when working on any vehicle.
7. Never run wires underneath the vehicle. Running the wires inside the vehicle provides the best protection.
8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or plastic grommets to protect any wires
routed through metal, especially the firewall.
9. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage with proper fusing. Install the appropriate
fuse holder and fuse on the +12V power wire within 18” (45.7 cm) of the battery terminal.
10. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle, scrape all paint from the metal to ensure a good, clean
ground connection. Grounding connections should be as short as possible and always be connected to
metal that is welded to the main body, or chassis, of the vehicle.
MOUNTING LOCATIONS
Engine Compartment
Never mount this unit in the engine compartment. Mounting the unit in the engine compartment will void
your warranty.
Trunk Mounting
Mounting the amplifier vertically will provide adequate cooling of the amplifier.
Mounting the amplifier on the floor of the trunk will provide the best cooling of the amplifier.
Mounting the amplifier upside down to the rear deck of the trunk will not provide proper cooling and will
severely affect the performance of the amplifier and is strongly not recommended.
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INSTALLATION
WIRING THE SYSTEM
CAUTION: If you do not feel comfortable with wiring your new unit, please see your local
Authorized MB Quart Dealer for installation.
CAUTION: Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent
damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.
CAUTION: Avoid running power wires near the low level input cables, antenna, power
leads, sensitive equipment or harnesses. The power wires carry substantial
current and could induce noise into the audio system.
1. Plan the wire routing. Keep RCA cables close together but isolated from the amplifier's power cables and
any high power auto accessories, especially electric motors. This is done to prevent coupling the noise
from radiated electrical fields into the audio signal. When feeding the wires through the firewall or any
metal barrier, protect them with plastic or rubber grommets to prevent short circuits. Leave the wires
long at this point to adjust for a precise fit at a later time.
2. Remove the eight (8) 8/32 allen head screws holding the connection end covers in place. Keep the covers
and screws in a safe place for reinstallation when mounting and wiring is complete.
3. Prepare the RED wire (power cable) by stripping 1/2" of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the
bared wire into the “+” terminal on the plug connector. Tighten the set screw with a 3/32" allen wrench
to secure the cable in place.
NOTE: The "+" (positive) cable MUST be fused 18" or less from the vehicle's battery. Install the fuseholder
under the hood and ensure connections are water tight.
4. Trim the RED wire (power cable) within 18" of the battery and splice in a inline fuse holder. See
Specifications for the rating of the fuse to be used. DO NOT install the fuse at this time.
5. Strip 1/2" from the battery end of the power cable and crimp a large ring terminal to the cable. Use the
ring terminal to connect to the battery positive terminal.
6. Prepare the BLACK wire (Ground cable) by stripping 1/2" of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the
bared wire into the “-” terminal on the plug connector. Tighten the set screw with a 3/32" allen wrench
to secure the cable in place. Prepare the vehicle chassis ground by scraping any paint from the metal
surface and thoroughly clean the area of all dirt and grease. Strip the other end of the wire and attach a
ring connector. Fasten the cable to the chassis using a non-anodized screw and a star washer.
NOTE: Keep the length of the BLACK wire (Ground) as short as possible. Always less than 30"(76.2cm).
7. Prepare the Remote turn-on wire by stripping 1/2" of insulation from the end of the wire. Insert the
bared wire into the “R” terminal on the plug connector. Tighten the set screw with a 3/16" allen wrench
to secure the cable in place. Connect the other end of the Remote wire to a switched 12 volt positive
source. The switched voltage is usually taken from the source unit's accessory lead. If the source unit
does not have this output available, the recommended solution is to wire a mechanical switch in line
with a 12 volt source to activate the amplifier manually.
Power Connection
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INSTALLATION
8. Securely mount the amplifier to the vehicle or amp rack. Be careful not to mount the amplifier on
cardboard or plastic panels. Doing so may enable the screws to pull out from the panel due to road
vibration or sudden vehicle stops.
9. Connect source signal by plugging the RCA cables into the input jacks at the amplifier.
CAUTION: Always ensure power is off or disconnected at the amplifier before connecting
RCA cables. Failure to do so may cause injury, damage to the amplifier and/or
connected components.
10. Connect the speakers. Strip the speaker wires 1/2" and insert into the speaker plug connector and tighten
the set screw to secure into place. Be sure to maintain proper speaker polarity. DO NOT chassis ground
any of the speaker leads as unstable operation may result.
11. Perform a final check of the completed system wiring to ensure that all connections are accurate. Check
all power and ground connections for frayed wires and loose connections which could cause problems.
12. Ensure the amplifier is mounted securely and reinstall the end covers. Install an inline fuse near the
battery connection.
NOTE: Follow the diagrams for proper signal polarity.
CAUTION: These amplifiers are not recommended for impedance loads below 1 .
CAUTION: Do not attempt to connect the source units speaker leads directly to the RCA
connections of this amplifier, as damage to the source unit and/or the
amplifier may result.
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INSTALLATION
REMOTE LEVEL AND FREQUENCY BOOST CONTROLLER
Mounting and installation
1. Find a location, either under the dash or near the
center console, that gives easy access to the
remote.
2. Using the screws supplied, install the mounting
clip.
3. Route the cable for the remote and connect to
both the remote and amplifier.
4. Slip the remote onto the mounting clip until it
snaps into place.
Operation
5. Left Knob-Level Control: Turn counter-clockwise to
attenuate the gain level set on the amplifier from
0 to -20dB.
CAUTION: Overexcursion and subsequent
damage may occur at high levels of boost.
6. Right Knob-Frequency Boost: Turn counter-clockwise to boost the Bass Eq frequency set on the amplifier
from 0 to +12dB.
OPERATION
SET-UP FEATURES
The MB Quart R Series amplifier offers a wide range of selections for the user to create a listening
environment that meets your personal preference.
Before making final adjustments, read through the descriptions for each feature to get the best results.
ADJUSTMENTS
Loosen the allen screw holding the small cover in place over the controls. Tilt
the cover up and away from the amplifier. After making adjustments, always
ensure the cover is in place to prevent accidental changes to the settings.
NOTE: Failure to follow these instructions may result in a loss of sonic
quality. This is caused by premature activation of the protection
circuitry to maintain the integrity of the amplifiers sensitive
components. The performance specifications listed in this manual
cannot be guaranteed under such conditions.
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OPERATION
CROSSOVER
Frequency Adjustment
Use the Frequency Adjuster to set the desired Low-Pass Filter cut-off point.
Turning the adjuster counter-clockwise decreases the set frequency.
Turning the adjuster clockwise increases the set frequency.
Quick Setting: Decrease the crossover frequency all the way down. With the system playing, increase the crossover
frequency up slowly until the desired crossover point is achieved.
SUBSONIC
Filter Switch
Placing the switch in the ON position (In Position)
engages a variable subsonic filter limiting the amount of
low frequency information going to the woofer.
Frequency Adjustment
After turning the subsonic filter on, use the Frequency
Adjuster to set this to your personal preference while
listening to the system. Variable from 15Hz to 50Hz.
NOTE: We recommend using the subsonic filter when
using vented enclosures with this amplifier.
BASS EQ
Q Adjustment
Q = Quality Factor. Changes the effective bandwidth of the boost control at the selected frequency. Higher Q
values reduce the effective bandwidth, lower Q values, increase the effective bandwidth.
Frequency Adjustment
Use to set the desired bass eq frequency. Variable from 25Hz to 160Hz.
GAIN
Turning the adjuster counter-clockwise decreases the set gain.
Turning the adjuster clockwise increases the set gain.
1. To adjust the gain setting, turn the amplifier gains all the way down (counter-clockwise).
NOTE: When using the Remote Level and Frequecy Boost controller with this unit, ensure the Level control
(Left Knob) is turned down to minimum before preceeding with the adjustments.
2. Turn the source unit volume up until distortion is audible and then turn it down a bit until the distortion
is inaudible. This will be about all the way up on most source units.
3. Increase the amplifier gain setting until adequate volume is achieved or clipping is noted by the LED
indicator. Turn the gain down slightly if clipping is indicated.
Most quality source units do not distort, so the volume can be used at maximum setting.
NOTE: Best signal to noise and dynamic range are realized with the gain at minimum. Most users find
adequate gain and volume is achieved at about halfway in the adjustment range.
CAUTION: Avoid setting the amplifier gain very high as noise and distortion will increase
significantly.
NOTE: For a more in depth setting procedure, contact MB Quart Technical Support.
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OPERATION
PHASE
The Phase is a variable control used to adjust the phase of
the output signal relative to the phase of the input signal.
This "phase alignment" is most noticeable when used with
an array of woofers whose vertical or horizontal planes are
staggered (not emanating from the same point.) Adjusting
the Phase can electrically realign the signal fed to each
woofer as if all woofers were aligned on a common ZDP
(Zero Delay Plane). In SPL (Sound Pressure Level) systems, a
desired ZDP is the point source where all speaker's voice
coils are aligned on the same imaginary plane, thus
allowing the signals to arrive at the microphone at the
same time.
The phase is most noticeable when the system is playing a
sine wave (test tone), not music. When used with the
proper test equipment, this feature can increase the
relative SPL in a system.
If the Phase is not used (like with a competitive SPL vehicle,) each amplifier's Phase should be set to (0)
or (No Delay).
TROUBLESHOOTING
Amplifier Does Not Turn On
Possible Cause Solution
The in-line fuse on battery positive Check in-line fuse on battery positive cable. Replace if necessary.
cable is blown.
Poor ground connection Verify that Ground connection is connected to clean metal on the
vehicle’s chassis. Repair/replace if necessary.
Poor power connection or power Verify there is 10.5 - 15.5 Volts present at the positive battery and
outside acceptable range. remote turn-on cable. Verify quality connections for both cables at
amplifier, stereo, and battery/fuseholder. Repair/replace if necessary.
Poor speaker connections Use an ohm meter to check speaker wire integrity. Check entire
length of wires for kinks, splices, etc. Repair/replace if necessary.
Bad source unit Connect RCA input from test source directly to amplifier input. If
this solves the problem, have the source unit repaired or replaced.
If not, have the amplifier checked by a qualified technician.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Excessive Engine Noise
Possible Cause Solution
RCA cables too close to main power Route all signal carrying wires (RCA, Speaker cables) away from
cables. power and ground wires.
Bad component in the signal chain Bypass any and all electrical components between the source and
the amplifier(s). Connect source directly to input of amplifier. If
noise goes away the unit being bypassed is the cause of the noise.
Poor ground connection at system Remove existing ground wires for all electrical components.
components Reground wires to different locations. Verify that grounding
location is clean, shiny metal free of paint, rust etc
Poor ground connection at battery Add secondary ground cable from negative battery terminal to the
chassis metal or engine block of vehicle.
SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL- R Series RAA1000
Continuous Power Rating (RMS) - Measured at 14.4 Battery Volts
4 Load Per Channel 250 Watts x 1Ch and ) 1% THD+N
2 Load Per Channel 500 Watts x 1Ch and ) 1% THD+N
1 Load Per Channel 1000 Watts x 1Ch and ) 1% THD+N
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LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION
MB Quart Corporation offers a limited warranty on MB Quart products on the following terms:
Length of Warranty
R Series Amplifiers – 1 Year
Or, two (2) years warranty if installed by a Authorized MB Quart Dealer. Requires proof of purchase.
What is Covered
This warranty applies only to MB Quart products sold to consumers by Authorized MB Quart Dealers
in the United States of America or its possessions. Product purchased by consumers from an
Authorized MB Quart Dealer in another country are covered only by that country’s Distributor and
not by MB Quart.
Who is Covered
This warranty covers only the original purchaser of MB Quart product purchased from an Authorized
MB Quart Dealer in the United States. In order to receive service, the purchaser must provide MB
Quart with a copy of the receipt stating the customer name, dealer name, product purchased and
date of purchase.
Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced
(with a product deemed to be equivalent) at MB Quart's discretion.
What is Not Covered
1. Damage caused by accident, abuse, improper operations, water, theft, shipping
2. Any cost or expense related to the removal or reinstallation of product
3. Service performed by anyone other than MB Quart or an Authorized MB Quart Service Center
4. Any product which has had the serial number defaced, altered, or removed
5. Subsequent damage to other components
6. Any product purchased outside the U.S.
7. Any product not purchased from an Authorized MB Quart Dealer
Limit on Implied Warranties
Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are
limited in duration to the period of the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow
limitations on the length of an implied warranty, so this limitation may not apply. No person is
authorized to assume for MB Quart any other liability in connection with the sale of the product.
How to Obtain Service
Contact the Authorized MB Quart Dealer you purchased this product from.
If you need further assistance, call 1-800-962-4412 for MB Quart Customer Service. You must
obtain an RA# (Return Authorization number) to return any product to MB Quart. You are
responsible for shipment of product to MB Quart.
EU Warranty
This product meets the current EU warranty requirements, see your Authorized dealer for details.