DS18 NXL-M5 IPX5 Grade Marine Boat Amplifier Owner’s Manual

DS18 NXL-M5 IPX5 Grade Marine Boat Amplifier

Product Information

• Product Name: NXL-m5 IPX5 Grade Marine/Boat Amplifier
• Number of Channels: 5
• Designed for: Boats, yachts, party boats, or any watercraft
• Features:
  • Small footprint for easy installation
  • Resistant to corrosion
  • Capable of resisting splashed water
  • Low operating temperature
  • Designed for easy installation on the boat’s panel or wet areas

Product Usage Instructions

1. Gain Control:
   • Step 1: Turn the gain control on the amplifier all the way down (counter clockwise).
   • Step 2: Turn up the volume control on the source unit to approximately 3/4 of maximum.
   • Step 3: Adjust the gain control on the amplifier until you see the LED Clip indicator starts to blinking.
   • Step 4: Adjust the gain control down until you don’t see the LED Clip indicator blinking anymore.
   • Step 5: The amplifier is now calibrated to the output of the source unit.
2. Filter – Mode and FREQ Control:
   • These controls allow control over the frequencies played for the channels.
   • There is an option for Low Pass, Full Range, or High Pass.
   • In LPF or HPF mode, the crossover frequency can be tuned from 40Hz to 2KHz.
3. Input Mode:
   • In 2-channel position, the amplifier can use one input signal on the 1&2 channels to drive both 1&2 and 3&4 outputs simultaneously.
   • In 4-channel position, the 1&2 and 3&4 inputs are separated and only output to their respective channels.
4. Sub Input:
   • ALL: Signal input from CH1 & CH2
   • SUB: Signal input from SUB
5. High Input:
   • Referred to as speaker level inputs, allow you to connect to the factory speaker wires.
   • Converts the high voltage running through factory speaker wires to one the amplifier can handle.
   • Provides clean, well defined sound for optimal musical enjoyment.
6. RCA Inputs:
   • Used with source units that have RCA or Line level outputs.
   • Source units need a minimum level of 100mV output for proper operation of the amplifier.
   • High-quality twisted marine cables (Tinned OFC) are recommended to decrease the possibility of corrosion.
7. Remote Terminal:
   • The amplifier can be turned on by applying 12 volts to this terminal.
   • This voltage is typically supplied by a wire from the source unit marked remote or power antenna.
8. Ground Terminal:
   • Main negative (-) input for the amplifier.
   • Must be connected directly to the negative terminal of the watercraft’s battery for proper operation.
   • Avoid running this cable parallel with RCA cables, antennas, or other sensitive equipment due to potential noise induction.
   • Use 4AWG Tinned OFC wire for maximum performance.

IPX5 GRADE MARINE/ BOAT AMPLIFIER

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on the purchase of the NXL-M5 amp. It has been designed and manufactured for use on boats, yachts, party boats or any watercraft that requires a high-quality, powerful amplifier with small footprint for easy installation. DS18 presents the best digital class amplifier that will provide the best performance and a very low operating temperature compared to otherregular amplifiers, this makes it perfect for marine environments like inside cabins or confined spaces on boats. In addition to resisting corrosion, it is also capable of resisting splashed water if necessary.

FEATURES

• Hardware resistant to corrosion and UV protection
• Coated 4 Layers PCB to prevent corrosion
• LED Indicator
• Stable and Reliable Circuit Design
• Small Size Footprint for Easy Installation
• IPX5 Water resistant grade
• Front cover to keep the controls safe to the elements
• LED Clip Indicator to easier adjustment
• Stable and Reliable Class D Circuit Design
• High Quality Potentiometers with copper shaft
• Surface Mount Component Technology
• Audio Precision Quality Control Verification
• Sound Quality verification using AP instruments
• Direct Insert Power and Speaker Terminals
• Short Circuit, Thermal, and Voltage Protection
• Small Footprint for Easy Installation
• Waterproof Remote level knob specially designed for easy installation on the panel’s boat or wet areas.

IN THE BOX

• 5 CH Amplifier
• Manual
• (4)3.5x20mm Screws
• (2)Allen Wrenches
• (2) Cover Screws
• Remote Bass level Knob

ELEMENTS DESCRIPTION

1. Gain Control – The gain control matches the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the source unit being used. The operating range varies from 200mv to 6V.
   Adjusting the gain:

2. Step 1: Turn the gain control on the amplifier all the way down (counter clockwise).

3. Step 2: Turn up the volume control on the source unit to approximately 3/4 of maximum.

4. Step 3: Adjust the gain control on the amplifier until you see the LED Clip indicator starts to blinking.

5. Step 4: Adjust the gain control down until you don’t see the LED Clip indicator blinking anymore.

6. Step 5: The amplifier is now calibrated to the output of the source unit.

7. FILTER – Mode and FREQ Control – These controls allow control over the frequencies played for the channels.There is an option for Low Pass, Full Range, or High Pass. In LPF or HPF mode, the crossover frequency can be tuned from 40Hz to 2KHz.

8. INPUT MODE – In 2-channel position the amplifier can use one input signal on the 1&2 channels to drive both 1&2 and 3&4 outputs simultaneously. In 4-channel position, the 1&2 and 3&4 inputs are separated and only output to their respective channels.

9. BASS BOOST – The variable bass boost control on the amplifier is designed to give you increased output, 0–12dB, at 45Hz. The setting for this control is subjective.

10. PHASE – The PHASE setting allows you to select the phasing of the subwoofer frequency; 0°, or 180°. If you are experiencing an absence of bass in the audio, the bass frequency may be out of phase with the rest of the system. Delay, reversing positive/negative polarity, or changing subwoofer location may also resolve these types of issues.

11. SUB INPUT – ALL: Signal input from CH1 & CH2; – SUB: Signal input from SUB.

12. POWER / PROTECT / CLIP LED – The POWER LED illuminates green when the amp is switched on. When the amp is in short circuit or thermal protection, the PROTECT LED is on. You need to check the amplifier or wait for the amplifier temperature to cool down before restarting. When the amplifier encounters clipping, the CLIP LED will light. Clipping occurs when an amplifier is not able to generate enough voltage to reproduce the input signal. Continous or long-term clipping can cause Irreparable damage

13. HIGH INPUT – Referred to as speaker level inputs, allow you to connect to the factory speaker wires. they are called High inputs because they convert the high voltage running through factory speaker wires to one the amplifier can handle. These inputs will provide the end user with clean, well defined sound for optimal musical enjoyment.

14. RCA Inputs – These RCA inputs are used with source units that have RCA or Line level outputs. (Source units need a minimum level of 100mV output for proper operation of the amplifier). We recommends only high quality twisted marine cables (Tinned OFC) to decrease the possibility of corrosion which is a common failure on marine installations.

15. Power Terminal(+12V) – This is the main power input for the amplifier and must be connected directly to the positive terminal of the watercraft’s battery for proper operation. Use caution when installing(+12) power cable in the Boat. Avoid running this cable parallel with RCA cables, antennas, or other sensitive equipment due to massive currents that can induce noise into the audio system It is also very important to have a tight, secure connection for maximum performance. We recommends using 4AWG Tinned OFC wire with the 4 ch amplifier.

16. Remote Terminal – The Amplifier can be turned on by applying 12 volts to this terminal Typically this voltage is supplied by a wire from the source unit marked “remote” or “power antenna”.

17. Ground Terminal – This is the main negative (-) input for the amplifier and must be connected directly to the negative terminal of the watercraft’s battery for proper operation. Avoid running this cable parallel with RCA cables, antennas, or other sensitive equipment due to massive currents that can induce noise into the audio system It is also very important to have a tight, secure connection for maximum performance. We recommends using 4AWG Tinned OFC wire with the 4 ch amplifier.

18. Speaker Terminals(+/-) – Connect speakers to these terminals, Observe speaker polarity throughout the system. Improper phase can result in loss of bass response and/or poor overall sound quality.

AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION

Amplifiers are generally mounted in closed compartments of the vehicle or watercrafts. Select a location that will provide adequate ventilation for the amplifier. Avoid mounting the amplifier in exposed areas. Before securing the amplifier, inspect the mounting location carefully to ensure that you do not drill into or damage any electrical, hydraulic, fluid, or fuel lines. Secure the amplifier with the screws provided.

1. Before you start, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, tape up the end so it is isolated from the battery
2. Run an appropriate gauge wire from the battery to the amplifier. Plan this part of the installation carefully. this cable will carry very high current. If it should short to the body and it is not properly fused, it could catch fire.
3. Connect the power (+) wire to the positive post of the battery using a marine grade fuse holder capable of the total current load of all amplifiers connected and locate it as close as possible to the battery.
4. Connect the Ground (-) wire to the negative post of the battery.
5. Run the speaker wire to the speakers. It is advised that you leave some extra wire at this point. You can fix it later. This amplifier is a multi-channel amplifier design, meaning it has more than one channel of speaker outputs. Connect this carefully and neatly; strip your wire back and twist the exposed leads. If the wires ever contact each other the amplifier will go into protection mode.
6. Connect the speaker wires to the amplifier and speakers (make sure the amp is off first). Make sure the polarity (+) and (-) is correct.
7. Connect the remote wire and the RCA audio signal from the Head Unit to the amplifier.
8. If you haven’t done so already, mount the amplifier now. Only after this step – you should connect back the negative cable at the battery.
9. Now is a good time to turn on the amp for the first time. This NXL-M Series amplifier has all the necessary controls to adjust your speaker system such as crossover and gain adjustment, it is time to adjust them accordingly so that you have a good result in sound quality

WARNING
Professional installation by an authorized DS18 amps dealer is highly recommended! Otherwise, the performance of your new gear may not be satisfactory. In the event that you decide to do your own installation, please read and follow this manual very carefully. Failure to do so may compromise the integrity of this product, your vehicle, and possibly void the product warranty

WIRING

STEREO LOW LEVEL INPUT (RCA)

STEREO HIGH LEVEL INPUT (SPEAKER OUTPUT FROM HEAD UNIT)

BRIDGE LOW LEVEL INPUT (RCA)

BRIDGE HIGH LEVEL INPUT (SPEAKER OUTPUT FROM HEAD UNIT)

SPECIFICATIONS

POWER

• Total Watts (Peak) 3600W
• RMS Power @ 4 ohm 4 x 150W / SUB 300W
• RMS Power @ 2 ohm 4 x 230W / SUB 600W
• RMS Power @ 4 ohm Bridge 2 x 440W

AUDIO

• Frequency Response 20Hz-20KHz
• Signal to Noise Ratio > 90dB
• Efficiency @ 4 ohm  97%
• Channel Separation  >55dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)  < 0.15%
• Low Level Input Range  0.2V-6V
• High Level Input Yes: ≥5V
• Selectable X-Over HPF/LPF/Full / SW: Fixed LPF
• X-Over Filter Range .40Hz-2KHz / SW: 32Hz – 320Hz
• Bass Boost Range 0-12dB (SW)
• Bass Boost Frequency 45Hz ±5Hz

FEATURES

• Amplifier Class Digital (D)
• Amplifier Type Stereo Full Range
• Number of Channels 5 Channels
• Minimum Impedance 2 ohm (Stereo) / 4 ohm (Bridge) / 2 ohm SW
• Led Indicator / Indicador Led Clipping | Protect | Power
• Power Input Terminal Size  4 Ga
• Fuse Size 120A (3x40A)
• Thermal Protection  Yes
• Over-Load Protection Yes
• DC Output Protection  Yes
• Short Circuit Output Protection  Yes
• Voltage Input Protection  Yes
• Clipping Protection Yes
• Body Color | Finishdo Gray+White | Aluminum+ABS

EXTRA FEATURES

• Water Resistant Rated  Yes, IPX5 (Water Splashing)
• PCB Layout Design  4 Layers | Coated
• UV Compliant Yes, UV Protected and PCB Coated
• Input Sum Selector  Yes, 2/4/5 Ch Input Mode
• Tiffany Style RCA Yes
• High Level Input Yes, 4ch Speaker level
• Stainless Steel Hardware  Yes, (Screws)
• Potentiometer High Quality Metal Knob
• Remote Level Control / Control de Nivel Remoto Yes, Marine Grade (Waterproof)

MEASUREMENT

• Overall Length 14.5″ / 368 mm
• Overall Width  4.5″ / 116mm
• Overall Height  1.7″ / 43mm
• Heatsink Length 13.40″ / 340.2mm
• Gross Single Unit Weight  2.24kg

DIMENSION

TROUBLESHOOTING

Before removing your amplifier refer to the list below and follow the suggested procedures. Always test the speakers and their wires first.
AMPLIFIER WON’T POWER UP

• Check for good ground connection.
• Check that remote DC terminal has at least 10V DC.
• Check that there is battery power on the + terminal.
• Check all FUSES.
• Check that Protection LED is not lit. IF it is lit, shut off amplifier briefly and then re-power it.

HIGH HISS OR ENGINE NOISE (ALTERNATOR WHINE) IN SPEAKERS
Disconnect all RCA inputs to the amplifier, if hiss noise disappears, then plug in the component driving the amplifier and unplug lts inputs. If hiss noise disappears, go on until the faulty/noisy component is found. Itis best to set the amplifier input level as insensitive as possible. “The best subjective S/N ratio is obtainable this way. Try to drive as high a signal level from the head unit as possible.

PROTECTION LED COMES ON WHEN THE AMPLIFIER IS POWERED UP
Check for shorts on speaker leads. Check that volume control on the head unit is turned down low. Remove speaker leads, and reset the amplifier f the Protection LED still comes on, then the amplifier is faulty. The amplifier will shut down automatically when the units: temperature goes up to 85*C This will protect the units from damage.

AMPLIFIER GETS VERY HOT
Check that the minimum speaker impedance for that model is correct. Check for speaker shorts. Check that there is good airflow around the amplifier. In some applications, an external cooling fan may be required.

DISTORTED SOUND
Check that the Level controls is set to match the signal. level of the head unit. Check that all crossover frequencies have been properly set. Check for shorts on the speaker leads.

HIGH SQUEAL NOISE FROM SPEAKERS
This is always caused by a poorly grounded RCA wire.

NXL-m5

PERFECT FOR BOATS

WARRANTY

Please visit our website DS18.com for more information on our warranty policy
We reserve the right to change products and specifications at any time without notice. Images may or may not included optional equipment.

WARNING:
Cancer and Reproductive Harm. www.P65Warning.ca.gov

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT DS4B.COM

References

• Official DS18 Pro Audio Store - Speakers, Subwoofers, Amps & More!

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