PSSO QCA-10000 MK2 4 Channel PA Amplifiers User Manual

USER MANUAL

4-channel PA Amplifiers with Integrated SMPS
The 4-channel PA amplifiers of the QCA series offer ultra-high output power paired with a low weight and small overall height. The amplifiers use a patented second-generation Class I output circuitry which combines the high efficiency off Class D and the sound quality of Class A. Featuring a modern switch-mode power supply, the amplifiers provide up to 10 kW peak power and weigh less than 16 kg. This makes the series particularly attractive for mobile applications. The amplifiers can be used flexibly in stereo operation, parallel operation or in mono bridge operation. Extensive protective circuits will protect the amplifiers and the speakers connected.

• 4-channel PA amplifier with class I circuitry
• 4 x 1600 or 2500 W at 2 ohms
• Low weight and height due to integrated switch mode power supply
• Reliable power amp with high impulse stability for a wide range of applications (e.g. compact PAs, multi-way PAs,
• international concerts)
• Speaker switch-on delay
• 3 operating modes can be selected (stereo, parallel or bridged)
• 4 level controls for precise level adjustment
• Input sensitivity adjustable
• LED VU meter and LEDs for activated protective circuit (protect), overload (clip), and signal per channel
• Complete protection set against short-circuit, overheat, clipping, overload, DC voltage and VHF signals
• Highly efficient front-to-rear air routing
• Electronically balanced inputs via XLR mounting jacks, with XLR feed-through outputs
• Speaker outputs via lockable Neutrik Speakon plugs
•  Rugged steel chassis with aluminum front panel, rack installation with 2 units

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for having chosen a PSSO PA amplifier. If you follow the instructions given in this manual, we are sure that you will enjoy this device for a long period of time. Please keep this manual for future needs.

CAUTION!
Keep this device away from rain and moisture!
For your own safety, please read this user manual carefully before you initially start-up.
This user manual is valid for the article numbers 10451696 and 10451698. You can find the latest update at: www.psso.de.

Every person involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device has to

• be qualified
• follow the instructions of this manual
• consider this manual to be part of the total product
• keep this manual for the entire service life of the product
• pass this manual on to every further owner or user of the product
• download the latest version of the user manual from the Internet

  SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION!
Be careful with your operations. With a dangerous voltage you can suffer a dangerous electric shock when touching the wires!
HEALTH HAZARD!
By operating an amplifying system, you can produce excessive sound pressure levels that may lead to permanent hearing loss.
This device has left our premises in absolutely perfect condition. In order to maintain this condition and to ensure a safe operation, it is absolutely necessary for the user to follow the safety instructions and warning notes written in this user manual.
Damages caused by the disregard of this user manual are not subject to warranty. The dealer will not accept liability for any resulting defects or problems.
Unpacking
Please make sure that there are no obvious transport damages. Should you notice any damages on the connection panel or on the casing, do not take the speaker system into operation and immediately consult your local dealer.
Protection Class
This device falls under protection class I. The power plug must only be plugged into a protection class I outlet. The voltage and frequency must exactly be the same as stated on the device. Wrong voltages or power outlets can lead to the destruction of the device and to mortal electrical shock.
Power Cord
Always plug in the power plug least. The power plug must always be inserted without force. Make sure that the plug is tightly connected with the outlet. Never let the power cord come into contact with other cables! Handle the power cord and all connections with the mains with particular caution! Never touch them with wet hands, as this could lead to mortal electrical shock. Never modify, bend, strain mechanically, put pressure on, pull or heat up the power cord. Never operate next to sources of heat or cold. Disregard can lead to power cord damages, fire or mortal electrical shock. The cable insert or the female part in the device must never be strained. There must always be sufficient cable to the device. Otherwise, the cable may be damaged which may lead to mortal damage. Make sure that the power cord is never crimped or damaged by sharp edges. Check the device and the power cord from time to time. If extension cords are used, make sure that the core diameter is sufficient for the required power consumption of the device. All warnings concerning the power cords are also valid for possible extension cords. Always disconnect from the mains, when the device is not in use or before cleaning it. Only handle the power cord by the plug. Never pull out the plug by tugging the power cord. Otherwise, the cable or plug can be damaged leading to mortal electrical shock. If the power plug or the power switch is not accessible, the device must be disconnected via the mains. If the power plug or the device is dusty, the device must be taken out of operation, disconnected and then be cleaned with a dry cloth. Dust can reduce the insulation which may lead to mortal electrical shock. More severe dirt in and at the device should only be removed by a specialist.
Liquids
There must never enter any liquid into power outlets, extension cords or any holes in the housing of the device. If you suppose that also a minimal amount of liquid may have entered the device, it must immediately be disconnected. This is also valid, if the device  was exposed to high humidity. Also if the device is still running, the device must be checked by a specialist if the liquid has reduced any insulation. Reduced insulation can cause mortal electrical shock.
Foreign Objects
There must never be any objects entering into the device. This is especially valid for metal parts. If any metal parts like staples or coarse metal chips enter into the device, the device must be taken out of operation and disconnected immediately. Malfunction or shortcircuits caused by metal parts may cause mortal injuries.
Avoiding Hum
Never install the amplifier next to highly sensitive devices like pre- amplifiers or tape-decks, as the strong magnetic field of the amplifier can produce hum in these devices. The magnetic field is strongest directly above or below the amplifier. If a rack is used, the amplifier should be installed at the bottom and the highly sensitive devices at the top.
Prior to Switching on
Before the unit is switched on all faders and volume controls have to be set to zero or minimum position. Turn the amplifier on last and off first! Only connect the device when the power switch is off. Never connect output to output. Never connect the inputs or outputs to any power source (batteries, etc.)
Children and Amateurs
Keep away children and amateurs!
Maintenance and Service
There are no serviceable parts inside the speaker system. Maintenance and service operations are only to be carried out by authorized dealers!

OPERATING DETERMINATIONS

The PA amplifiers of the QCA series have been specially designed for stage and the disco applications.

Power
This product is allowed to be operated with an alternating current of 230 V AC, 50 and was designed for indoor use only. The occupation of the connection cables is as follows:

The earth has to be connected! If the device will be directly connected with the local power supply network, a disconnection switch with a minimum opening of 3 mm at every pole has to be included in the permanent electrical installation. The device must only be connected with an electric installation carried out in compliance with the IEC standards. The electric installation must be equipped with a Residual Current Device (RCD) with a maximum fault current of 30 mA.
Installation
Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device. When choosing the installation spot, please make sure that the device is not exposed to extreme heat, moisture or dust. There should not be any cables lying around. You endanger
your own and the safety of others!
Ambient Conditions
This device must never be operated or stockpiled in surroundings where splash water, rain, moisture or fog may harm the device. Moisture or very high humidity can reduce the insulation and lead to mortal electrical shocks. When using smoke machines, make sure that the device is never exposed to the direct smoke jet and is installed in a distance of 0.5 meters between smoke machine and device. The ambient temperature must always be between -5° C and +45° C. Keep away from direct insulation (particularly in cars) and heaters. The relative humidity must not exceed 50 % with an ambient temperature of 45° C. This device must only be operated in an altitude between -20 and 2000 m over NN. The ambient contamination must never exceed level 1 and must not be conducting, only dry. Never use the device during thunderstorms. Over voltage could destroy the device. Always disconnect the device during thunderstorms.
Transport
Please use the original packaging if the device is to be transported.
Cleaning
Never use solvents or aggressive detergents in order to clean the device! Rather use a soft and damp cloth.
Operation
Operate the device only after having familiarized with its functions. Do not permit operation by persons not qualified for operating the device. Most damages are the result of unprofessional operation!
Serial Barcode
Never remove the serial barcode from the device as this would make the guarantee void.
Modifications and Guarantee
Please note that damages caused by manual modifications on the device or unauthorized operation by unqualified persons are not subject to warranty. If this device will be operated in any way different to the one described in this manual, the product may suffer
damages and the guarantee becomes void.
Furthermore, any other operation may lead to dangers like short-circuit, burns, electric shock, etc.
Avoiding Hearing Loss
By operating amplifying systems, you can produce excessive sound pressure levels that may lead to permanent hearing loss. Please refer to the explanations under “Legal instructions”.
Public and Industrial Use
Operating an amplification system in public or industrial areas, a series of safety instructions have to be followed that this manual can only give in part. The operator must therefore inform himself on the current safety instructions and consider them.

WEEE Directive
When to be definitively put out of operation, take the unit(s) to a local recycling plant for a disposal which is not harmful to the environment. Do not dispose of as municipal waste. Contact your retailer or local authorities for more information.

Legal Instructions
Operating an amplification system can produce extremely high noise levels that may cause a permanent hearing loss. The legal instructions for using an amplification system vary from country to country.
The user must always inform himself on the legal instructions valid in his country and apply them to his situation.
Always monitor the sound pressure level when operating an amplification system in discotheques, concerts etc. Never exceed the permissible noise levelexposures as specified by your authorities. The monitoring of the noise levels must be documented in an appropriate way.
In Germany, the following instructions are binding: Strafgesetzbuch § 223 ff:
bundesrecht.juris.de/bundesrecht/stgb
TA Lärm: www.umweltdaten.de
DIN 15905-5: www.din.de
Arbeitsstättenverordnung § 15:
www.lgl.bayern.de/arbeitsschutz
Berufsgenossenschaftliche Vorschrift BGV B3: www.pro.info
VDI-Richtlinie: VDI 2058 Blatt 2: www.vdi.de

Hearing damage caused by high noise levels can be treated as physical injury and persecuted by law. Please note that the organizer is responsible for keeping to a specified noise level. If this noise level will be exceeded, the event may be cancelled immediately.
If the organizer does not fulfill his safety duties, he is reliable by civil law for any damages occurred, e.g.: Pay the treatment costs of the damaged person. Pay a smart money to the damaged person. Economic damage caused can be demanded from the operator of the amplification system. If hired persons work with amplification systems: the noise levels of music events are almost always too high. This is why the entrepreneur has to set up warning signs and provide hearing protectors. The staff has to use these. PSSO cannot be made liable for damages caused by incorrect installations and excessive noise levels!

Information on Hearing Loss
More and more young people suffer from hearing loss of 25 decibel or more, mainly caused by loud music from portable MP3 and CD players or discotheques.
Everybody operating amplification systems should know to what sound pressure levels he exposes his or the audience’s hearing. As an average levels between 75 and 105 dB(A) in the discotheque or 95 and 115 dB(A) at a rock concert are reached. Individual peaks can exceed the pain level at 130 dB(A). Such levels are typical for motor chainsaws or jack hammers.
It is important to know that doubling the power increases the noise level by 3 dB. The human hearing does only recognize a doubling of the sound level when the noise level is increased by 10 dB. Damaging the hearing does not depend on the sound level but on the noise level and starts way before the pain level.
Many people deceive themselves by thinking that noise is something they can get accustomed to. It is possible that a positive opinion of a certain noise can reduce the physiological reaction, but the slow impacts on the inner hearing must not be neglected: over stimulation and continuous elimination of the Cortic organ’s hair cells.
The reason why some people have got accustomed to a certain noise level and are no longer disturbed is that they have already suffered a hearing damage. This damage makes the insensitive to those frequencies forming the loudest part of the noise. Getting accustomed to noise does not mean anything other than trying to get along with the hearing loss in everyday life. The hearing loss itself cannot be healed; it can only be compensated by hearing aids.
Subjectively, the hearing loss feels like dampened ears. This effect weakens with the time, but a loss in hearing sensitivity often remains.
In order to relax the hearing sufficiently, the noise level should not exceed 70 dB(A) for 10 hours. Higher noise levels during this relaxing period can prevent the relaxation and promote a permanent hearing damage (Tinnitus) or hearing loss. Therefore: Whoever wants to maintain his hearing should use hearing protectors!

Overview on the Different Noise Levels

10 dB   Heartbeat| 80 dB    Heavy traffic or telephone ringing
20-30 dB  Whisper| 90 dB    Pneumatic drill
40 dB   Average home| 100 dB  Power mower
50 dB   Light traffic| 120 dB  Boom box in car
60 dB   Normal conversation| 130 dB  Pain level
70 dB   Vacuum cleaner| 140 dB  Jet plane 30 meters overhead

OPERATING ELEMENTS & CONNECTIONS

This user manual describes the front panel of the QCA-6400 as a reference. Illustrations and features of the other model are comparable.

Front Panel

• PROT: protective circuit is active
• CLIP: overload
• -10 dB, -40 dB: input level indication
• ON: power indication
4| Power on/off
5| Air strainer

Rear Panel

RACK INSTALLATION

This amplifier is built for 19″ racks (483 mm). This rack use should be a double-door rack where front panel and rear panel can be opened. The rack should be provided with a cooling fan. When mounting the amplifier into the rack, please make sure that there is enough space around the device so that the heated air can be passed on. Steady overheating will damage your device. The ambient temperature must not exceed +35° C.
You can fix the amplifier with four screws M6 in the rack. If several devices are to be installed, make sure that you leave 1 unit space between the devices.
Be careful when mounting the amplifier into the rack. Put the heaviest devices into the lower part of the rack. Be aware that fastening the amplifier with four screws on the front panel is not enough. In order to ensure safety, additional fastening by using ground and side bars is necessary.
If racks are to be transported or used for mobile use, additionally fasten the devices by connecting the rear brackets with the side or ground bars of the rack. Thus, the amplifier cannot be pushed backwards. The front panel alone is not designed to absorb acceleration forces occurring during transportation.

CONNECTIONS

ACHTUNG!
All connections have to be made or changed only if the amplifier is switched off!

Inputs
The connection of the inputs depends on the operating mode selected. Therefore, prior to making any connections, select the operating mode according to your desired application. Then connect the output of line signal sources (e.g. preamplifier or mixer) to the balanced XLR inputs CH-1-CH4.
Feed-through Output
For parallel connection of further PA amplifiers, the feed-through outputs can be used via the balanced XLR jacks LINK 1-4. Connect the outputs to the inputs of the PA amplifiers. XLR connection

Speaker Outputs
In stereo and parallel mode, the amplifier can operate four speakers or four speaker groups. To double the output power, channels 1, 2 and/or 3, 4 can be bridged to drive one speaker or speaker group each. For connecting speakers, Speakon jacks are provided. Turn each plug to the right until it locks into place. For unlocking, pull the unlock button and turn the plug to the left. When interconnecting several speakers, it is especially important to consider that the minimum total impedance is 2 Ω for stereo and parallel  operation and 4 Ω for bridge operation.

Speaker socket connection
Stereo operation, parallel operation (CH 1 and CH 3)

Stereo operation, parallel operation (CH 2 and CH 4)

Example for the calculation number of speakers/impedance

The input impedance of the speaker systems should at least be the same or even higher than the output impedance of the amplifier.
Information on choosing appropriate speaker cables

• Speaker systems must only be connected via sufficiently dimensioned cables. Too thin cables lead to cable heatup or enormous power loss and loss in sound quality.
• For all speaker systems up to 400 Watts, we recommend a cable diameter of 2.5 mm², for all other speaker cables 4 mm².
• A high damping factor of your amplifier supplies a clear sound reproduction. Unnecessarily long and thin cables will influence the damping factor and thus the low frequencies in a negative way. In order to safeguard good sound quality, the damping factor should lie around 50. The longer a cable has to be, the thicker it should be. In this respect, a damping factor of 200 will be reduced to 47 (8 ohms) when using a 10 m long, 2.5 mm² speaker cable. The power loss at 8 ohms is 1.63 %, at 4 ohms 3.25 % and at 2 ohms even 6.5 %.
•  The maximum cable length is 30 meters.

General information on installing cables

• Always treat cables carefully and protect them from damages during transportation.
• Install cables always in a structured way and protect them from damage.
• Cables must be installed in a way that no person can stumble over them. Always fix cables with an appropriate tape.
•  Cables should be installed directly (no loops, S-shaped overlengths).
•  Always install cables far away from power cables (never closely parallel).
•  Never put heavy objects like speaker systems, flightcases etc. on cables.
•  Never operate cables wound up.

Stereo Operation
In stereo mode, the amplifier can operate four speakers or four speaker groups independently of each other. The highest output power during is achieved by connecting 2 Ω speakers. With 4 Ω and 8 Ω speakers the output power will be slightly reduced. For this operating mode, set the DIP switches MODE 1-4 to their lower position.
Note: At channel 1 and channel 3, it is possible to take off the signal of channel 2 and channel 4 respectively from pins 2+/2-.

Parallel Operation
In parallel operation, channels 1 and 2 and channels 3 and 4 respectively receive the same input signal. A signal at the input of channel 2 and channel 4 is ignored. The volume is separately adjusted for all outputs. This way, PA amplification can provided e.g. for several rooms using the same mono signal while adjusting the volume independently. For this operating mode, set the DIP switches MODE 3 and 4 to their upper position. Note: At channel 1 and channel 3, it is possible to take off the signal of channel 2 and channel 4 respectively from pins 2+/2-.

Bridge Operation
In bridge mode, channels 1 and 2 and channels 3 and 4 are bridged and therefore provide higher power than a single channel. Thus, the voltage at the outputs of channel 1 and channel 3 is doubled and subsequently the output impedance. A signal at the input of channel 2 and channel 4 is ignored. The volume is adjusted together for both outputs with the control of channel 1 and channel 3. For this operating mode, set the DIP switches MODE 1 and 2 to their upper position. Note: In bridge mode, the output signal is  provided at pins 1+/2-.

Connection to the Mains
Finally connect the device to the mains with the mains cable. The ON indicator lights up.

OPERATION

Switching On/Off

1. To prevent loud switching noise, always switch on all other units of the amplifier system before switching on the power amplifier. After operation, switch off the power amplifier first. Prior to switching on set all level controls to the left stop position and make sure that the operating mode selector switch MODE is set to the correct position.
2. Switch on the amplifier with the power switch. The protection indicators PROT light up for about 10 seconds. If they do not, check if the amplifier is connected to the mains correctly. After the turn-on delay the speakers are activated (protection indicators PROT are off). Afterwards the power indicator ON lights up and indicates that the amplifier is switched on.

Input Level Adjustment

With the DIP switches SENSITIVITY the input sensitivity of the amplifier can be matched to the output level of the preceding unit.

Adjusting the Level

1. First, set the volume controls of the preamplifiers to zero and turn the level controls of the amplifier to mid-position. There should be no loud humming. Should humming persist, check the connection cables between the preamplifier and the amplifier (switch off components before).
2. Adjust the level controls to the desired volume value. The LEDs “-10 dB” and “-40 dB” show the adjusted input level. In case of overload, the red CLIP indicator lights up. In this case, reduce the volume correspondingly.
3. In bridge mode the level controls for channel 2 and channel 4 are disabled. Volume adjustment is made with the level control for channel 1 and channel 3.

Additional information on the operation
When operating the amplifying system, please make sure that the loudspeakers always sound well. When distortions can be heard, either the amplifier or the loudspeaker is overloaded. Overloads can quickly lead to amplifier or speaker damage. In order to avoid damage, please reduce the volume immediately when distortions can be heard. When speaker systems are destroyed by overload, the guarantee becomes void. Always check the sound pressure level with a meter in order to keep to the threshold.

Protective Circuits
The integrated protective circuits prevent damage to the speakers and the amplifier. If activated, the speakers are electrically separated from the amplifier and the protect indicator PROT lights up:

• for approx. 10 seconds after switching-on until the speaker outputs are ready for operation
• in case of overheating of the amplifier
• in case of a VHF signal above 10 kHz at a speaker output
• in case of a short-circuit at a speaker output
• in case of a DC voltage at a speaker output

If the red protect indicator PROT lights up during operation or if it does not extinguish after switching on, the amplifier has to be switched off and the cause of the fault has to be removed.

PROBLEM CHART

extension cables.
No sound.| • The power cord of the respective device is not connected properly or not connected at all.
• The connection socket or the plug isdirty.| • Check the power cord and if the
plugs are tightly connected with the
sockets.
• Clean the socket and/or the plug.
Fans do not work, LEDs donot light up.| • The power cord is not connected.| • Please check if the power is available
PROT LED lights up
permanently.| • Amplifier is overheated due to impurities.
• Impedance of speakers too low.
• Short-circuit in speaker connection or in speakers.
• Technical default of amplifier.| • Clean the fan grille.
• Connect other speakers.
• Check speakers.
• Switch amplifier off and have the device checked by a service technician.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

DANGER TO LIFE!
Disconnect from mains before starting maintenance operation!
We recommend a frequent cleaning of the device. In particular, the strainer mesh on the front panel should be clean before taking the amplifier into operation and then every four months. Please use a soft lint-free and moistened cloth, a brush or a compressed air cleaner. Never use alcohol or solvents!
There are no serviceable parts inside the device Maintenance and service operations are only to be carried out by authorized dealers. Should you need any spare parts, please use genuine parts.
If the power supply cable of this device becomes damaged, it has to be replaced by a special power supply cable available at your dealer.
Should you have further questions, please contact your dealer.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

| QCA-6400| QCA-10000
---|---|---
Power supply:| 230 V AC, 50 Hz
Power consumption:| 820 W (1/8 power)| 1150 W (1/8 power)
Power output sine:

(1 kHz, 1 % THD+N)

|
Stereo, parallel at 2 Ω| 4 x 1600 W| 4 x 2500 W
Stereo, parallel at 4 Ω| 4 x 1400 W| 4 x 2100 W
Stereo, parallel at 8 Ω| 4 x 800 W| 4 x 1300 W
Bridge mode at 4 Ω| 2 x 3200 W| 2 x 5000 W
Bridge mode at 8 Ω| 2 x 2800 W| 2 x 4200 W
Frequency response:| 20-20000 Hz
S/N ratio:| >80 dB
THD:| <0.05 %
Damping factor:| >800
Slew rate:| >10 V/µs
Crosstalk:| >65 dB
Inputs:|
Input sensitivity:| 0.775 V/1.0 V/1.4 V/38 dB/32 dB/26 dB, switchable
Voltage gain:| 40.3 dB (0.775 V), 38 dB (1.0 V), 35,1 dB (1.4 V)
Input impedance:| 20 kΩ (balanced), 10 kΩ (unbalanced)
Connectors:| 4 x XLR
Outputs:|
Speaker connectors:| 4 x Neutrik Speakon
Feed-through output:| 4 x XLR
Circuitry:| Class I
Protection circuits:| softstart, short-circuit, overheat, overload, DC voltage and VHF signals
Control elements:| power switch, level control, mode switch (stereo, bridge, parallel), input sensitivity
LED indicators:| protect, clip, -10 dB, – 40 dB (per channel), dB/V mode
Cooling:| 2 temperature-controlled fans, front-to-rear
Construction:| steel chassis, aluminum front
Dimensions (DxWxH):| 483 x 445 x 89 mm rack installation with 2 U| 483 x 445 x 89 mm rack installation with 2 U
Weight:| 13.5 kg| 13.9 kg

Dimensions in cm

© PSSO 2021
Every information is subject to change without prior notice.
00135821
Version 1.3

References

• StGB - nichtamtliches Inhaltsverzeichnis
• DIN - Deutsches Institut für Normung
• PSSO: Technik für Audiophile
• A virtual server
• Verein Deutscher Ingenieure e.V. | VDI

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