Owner
’s Manual
13
Owner’s Manual
General Precautions
AC Power Requirements
The amplifier’s power cord should be plugged into an
AC outlet properly configured with the voltage required
for your particular model.
Be sure the AC outlet can supply enough current to
allow full power operation of all the amplifiers plugged
into it.
WARNING: Disconnecting the plug’s ground
pin is dangerous. Don’t do it!
The AC current demand of an amplifier varies
depending on several factors, including the load
impedance, the crest factor, and the duty cycle
of the program material. Under typical conditions
reproducing rock music where musical peaks
are just below clipping, the amplifiers require
the following average currents:
MX2500 = 8 A
MX3500 = 11 A
It is recommended that a stiff (robust) supply
of AC power be used because the amplifier places high
current demands on the AC line. The more power that
is available on the line, the louder the amplifier will play
and the more peak output power will be available for
cleaner, punchier bass.
If more than one amplifier is sharing an AC outlet,
avoid turning them all on at the same time. Rather,
sequence them on, one at a time, to prevent popping
the circuit breaker (due to in-rush current).
Thermal Considerations
The power amplifier is fan cooled. Air is drawn
through the rear panel vents to cool down the amplifier
heatsinks.
When installing, be sure to allow sufficient air space
around the rear of the amplifier for adequate cooling
for the heatsinks. Leave at least one rack space above
and below, and at least six inches behind and in front
of the chassis to allow proper ventilation.
If the amplifier should overheat, a thermal switch
turns off the power amplifier, allowing the heatsink
to cool down. Once the amplifier has cooled to a safe
operating temperature, the thermal switch resets and
reactivates the amplifier. If this should occur, identify
the cause of the problem and take corrective action.
For example:
• Provide better ventilation
• Install a fan in the rack to move more air
• Make sure the amplifier is not overloaded with
too low of a load impedance or by a short circuit
on the speaker line
Rack Mounting
MX Series amplifiers are designed to be mounted in
a standard 19 inch rack. They require two rack spaces
(2U = 3.5"). They also require up to 14.7" depth inside
the rack. When designing the rack, put the heavier
items at the bottom and the lighter items toward the
top.
Secure the front panel of the amplifier to the front
of the rack using four screws with soft washers to
prevent scratching the panel. In addition, because of
the weight of the amplifier, you must secure the rear
support brackets of the amplifier to the back of the
rack. You could use a support rail or shelf across the
back of the rack, or angle brackets attached between
the rear support rails and the rear rails of the rack. This
is recommended for all components mounted in a rack
that is going to be moved frequently.
Care and Maintenance
Your MX Series amplifier will provide many years
of reliable service if you follow these guidelines:
• Testing: Periodically test the system for proper
performance. A simple test is to play a CD through
it using well-defined, articulate, wide-range program
material. Listen to ensure all drivers are working
properly and for any evidence of distortion or other
extraneous sounds. Test at several volume levels:
very low, normal, and high.
• Avoid exposing the amplifiers to moisture.
If they are set up outdoors, be sure they are under
cover if rain is expected.
• Use a clean, dry cloth to clean the amplifier.
Only do this when the power is turned off.
Avoid getting moisture into any of the openings
of the amplifier, particularly where the fans are located.
