wavtech LINK8 8 Channel Line Output Converter with Summing Capability Owner’s Manual

wavtech LINK8 8 Channel Line Output Converter with Summing Capability

Specifications

• Product Name: 8-Channel Line Output Converter
• Input: Summing Y AUX Input
• Features: Multi-Function Remote
• Website: www.wavtech-usa.com

WARNING

• DO NOT DRIVE WHILE DISTRACTED. Any function that requires your prolonged attention should not be performed while driving. Always stop the vehicle in a safe location before performing any such function. Failure to do so may result in an accident.
• KEEP THE VOLUME AT MODERATE LEVELS WHILE DRIVING. Excess volume levels can obscure sounds such as emergency vehicle sirens or road warning signals and may result in an accident. Continuous exposure to high sound pressure levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Use common sense and practice safe sound.
• FOR USE WITH 12V NEGATIVE GROUND VEHICLE APPLICATIONS ONLY. Using this product other than in its designed application may result in fire, injury or product damage.
• MAKE THE CORRECT WIRING CONNECTIONS AND USE PROPER FUSE PROTECTION. Failure to connect wiring correctly or use appropriate fuse protection may result in fire, injury or product damage . Ensure proper fusing of all system power wiring and install a 1-ampere in-line fuse (not included) with the +12V lead to the unit’s power supply connector.
• DISCONNECT THE NEGATIVE BATTERY TERMINAL BEFORE INSTALLATION. Failure to do so may result in fire, injury or damage to the unit.
• D O DOES NOT ALLOW CABLES TO BECOME ENTANGLED IN SURROUNDING OBJECTS. Arrange wiring and cables to prevent obstructions when driving. Cables or wiring that obstruct or hang up on places such as steering wheel, brake pedals, etc. can be extremely hazardous.
• DO NOT DAMAGE VEHICLE SYSTEMS OR WIRING WHEN DRILLING HOLES. When drilling holes in the chassis for installation, take precautions so as not to contact, puncture or obstruct brake lines, fuel lines, fuel tanks, electrical wiring, etc. Failure to take such precautions may result in fire or an accident.
• DO NOT UTILIZE OR CONNECT TO ANY PART OF VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS. Bolts, nuts or wires used in the brake, airbag, steering or any other safety-related systems or fuel tanks should NEVER be used for mounting, power or ground connections. Using such parts may disable control of the vehicle or result in fire.

CAUTION

• STOP USE IMMEDIATELY IF A PROBLEM OCCURS. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or damage to the product. Return it to your authorized Wāvtech dealer.
• HAVE AN EXPERT DO THE WIRING AND INSTALLATION. This unit requires special technical skills and experience for wiring and installation. To ensure safety and proper function, always contact the authorized dealer where you purchased the product to have it done professionally.
• INSTALL THE UNIT SECURELY WITH SPECIFIED PARTS. Be sure to use only the included parts and specified installation accessories (not included). Use of other than designated parts may damage this unit. Install the unit securely so that it will not come loose during a collision or sudden jolt.
• ROUTE WIRING AWAY FROM SHARP EDGES AND MOVING PARTS. Arrange cables and wiring away from sharp or pointed edges and avoid moving parts such as seat hinges or rails to prevent pinching or wear. Use loom protection where appropriate and always use a grommet for any wiring routed through metal.
• NEVER RUN SYSTEM WIRING OUTSIDE OR UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. All wiring must be routed, secured, and protected inside the vehicle. Failure to do so may result in fire, injury or property damage.
• INSTALL THE UNIT IN A DRY AND VENTILATED LOCATION. Avoid mounting locations where the unit will likely be exposed to high moisture or heat without adequate ventilation. Moisture penetration or heat buildup may result in product failure.
• REDUCE GAIN AND SOURCE VOLUME TO MINIMUM LEVELS FOR INITIAL SYSTEM TUNING AND BEFORE CONNECTION TO AN AMPLIFIER. Ensure amplifier power is off before connecting RCA cables and follow proper system gain setting procedures. Failure to do so may result in damage to the amplifier and/or connected components.

Package Contents

Accessories Required for Installation (not included):

• RCA Interconnects
• 18AWG Wire
• In-line Fuse Holder w/1A fuse Ÿ Battery Ring Terminal
• Ground Terminal
• Wire Crimp Connectors
• Grommets and Loom
• Cable Ties
• Mounting Screws

Introduction

Welcome to Wāvtech, an exceptional mobile audio integration product for audiophiles. Our products are engineered to provide a truly remarkable listening experience. Built for the professional installer, our OEM integration and signal processor models are simply the best solution available for unlimited sound system upgrades while retaining the factory receiver.

Features

• 8-Channel Line Output Converter
• 8-Channel Summing Processor
• Multi-Function Remote (patent pending)
  • Master Volume Control
  • AUX Volume Control
  • Independent CH7/8 Level
  • Source/Function Select
• AUX 3.5mm Input
• Differential Balanced Inputs
• Low Impedance Outputs
• Independent Variable Gains with Clip LEDs
• 2ch/4ch/6ch/8ch Input Select
• 2/3/4-Way Summing
• Never-Zero Ch7/8 Output with Front & Rear Input Ÿ Auto Turn-On via DC-Offset or Audio Signal Detect Ÿ Generated +12V Remote Output
• OEM Load Detect Compatible
• Selectable Ground Isolation
• Detachable Power and Speaker Input Terminals
• Professional Grade Panel Mount RCA Output Jacks Ÿ Aluminum Chassis w/Detachable Mounting Tabs

Connections & Functions

1. Power Indicator: This red LED indicates when the link8 is powered on. Once illuminated, there will be a short delay before the audio signal output is enabled. During the initial power connection, the LED may illuminate for a brief period.
2. Ground Jumper: For selecting between chassis, isolation, or 200Ω for the internal audio signal ground. Chassis ground is the default setting and is ideal for most applications due to the differential input stage. In the rare case, that there is system noise present after all other installation countermeasures, changing this jumper to ISO or 200Ω may reduce or eliminate the noise.
3. Power Supply Terminal: For +12V battery, chassis ground, remote input, and remote output wire connections. A minimum of 18AWG wire is recommended for power and ground connections. Always protect the +12V power wire with a 1-amp fuse.
4. Speaker Level Input Terminals: For up to eight channels of speaker level (a.k.a. high level) input connections to the source. Input signals ranging from 2Vrms to 20Vrms will produce up to 10Vrms RCA output at maximum to minimum gain setting. Dynamic music signal peaks are allowable up to 40Vrms but will be clipped.
5. Auxiliary Input Jack: This 3.5mm stereo AUX input is for the connection of a portable device such as a smartphone or MP3 player, but may also be used for other low-level (a.k.a line level) sources using an a3.5mm adapter. AUX may be selected as a separate source via the multi-function remote, or programmed as the primary source for stand-alone systems where the speaker-level inputs are not used (see pg4). Input signals ranging from 0.5Vrms to 5Vrms will produce up to 10Vrms RCA output at maximum to minimum gain setting.
6. RCA Output Jacks: These eight channels of RCA line-level outputs are for signal connection to your amplifier(s). CH3/4, CH5/6, and CH7/8’s output will depend upon which INPUT CH setting is selected for each pair (see pg3), while CH1/2 will always pass through its input signal directly. When selected, the AUX input will supply left/right stereo signals to all four pairs of outputs. Use quality interconnects to ensure stable connections and minimize the possibility of induced noise.
7. Remote Level Control Jack: T his RJ45 jack is for connecting the supplied cable to the external multifunction remote controller. A standard ethernet cable may also be used.
8. Mounting Tabs: These mounting tabs are for securing the link8 during installation with screws or cable ties. They are removable if the unit can be safely secured by another method.

Top Panel Adjustments

1. AUX Gain Adjustment: In systemsusing both the link8’s main speakerlevel and auxiliary inputs, this gain adjustment is primarily for matching the AUX output level with that of the main source. It is recommended to set the speaker level input gain(s) first, particularly if summing.
2. CH1/2, CH3/4, CH5/6, CH7/8 Gain Adjustments: These gain adjustments are for matching each pair of output channels’ signal level with the source’s maximum unclipped signal range and the maximum input capability of connected amplifier(s). When summing channels together, these gain adjustments should be used for matching relative output levels so that the combined signals sum to as close to flat as possible. If a gain difference between channels is desired with direct signal input, adjustments made at the link8 should also minimize amplifier gain settings for best S/N. Note that the gain adjustment will be bypassed if its input select is set to copy the previous channel pair.
3. Clipping Indicators: These yellow LEDs indicate when the output signal from each channel pair is at maximum level before clipping (distortion) occurs, whether the source is main speaker level or AUX input. Each will be dimly lit at onset of clipping, and full bright under hard clipping. If the connected amplifier(s) input can handle full 10Vrms output from the link8, then the gain is set correctly when source unit is at its maximum unclipped volume and this LED is just starting to flicker. It is likely, however, that gain will need to be reduced to match your amplifier’s maximum input capability or optimize source volume range.
4. CH3/4, CH5/6, CH7/8 Input Select: These 3-position switches are for selecting which signal is routed internally to each channel pair’s output stage. It provides for 2-channel, 4-channel, 6-channel or 8- channel input, as well as various independent and summed input configurations:
5. Copy: In the left switch position, this input setting will copy the internal signal from after the previous channel pair’s gain stage and route to its outputs. This bypasses the gain adjustment so its outputs are controlled by the previous channel pair’s gain. If independent gain is desired, use jumper wires at the speaker input terminals and select direct input instead.
6. Direct: In the middle switch position, this input setting will route the channel pair’s input signal directly to its gain and output stages.
7. Sum: In the right switch position, this input setting will sum the indicated channel internal signals from after their respective gain stages and route the combined signals to its left and right RCA outputs. For example, if CH3/4’s input select is set to CH1+3/2+4, CH1+3 will be sent to the CH3(L) output, and CH2+4 will be sent to the CH4(R) output. For vehicles without an available full-range signal, this function can be used to sum pre-filtered signals together to create a useable frequencyrange output from up to a 4-way factory system. Note that although CH1/2’s output is always passed through, it’s frequency content may still be useable. Additionally, when a front signal isinput, summed or copied to CH5/6 and a rear signal is input to CH7/8 (or vise versa), selectingCH5+7/CH6+8 can be used to ensure CH7/8’s output will always retain at least half signal level (Never-Zero) for a subwoofer, regardless of the source unit’s fader position.

Example: 4-way Summing Signal Flow

Multi-Function Remote

1. Remote Housing: This 2-piece housing design provides both convenient mounting and simple disassembly for customization. The integrated screw mount tabs are scored to aid removal if securing by another method, and the lower housing can be detached by removing the two top screws for reducing weight or size. For panel mounting, the housing can be completely disassembled by also removing the knob, shaft nut, and circuit board screw. It is recommended to protect the exposed PCB with heat shrink. For LED relocation, carefully push the LED through from the front to release and then push out the snap ring from the back to remove. Follow the reverse process for re-mounting.

2. Rotary Encoder: This control knob is for adjusting CH1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8 master volume, CH7/8 level, and source selection (toggle). The factory setting for the knob function is CH7/8 output level adjustment only for a speaker-level source. Other knob functions can be enabled via the dip switches at the back of the remote (see 4 below). To toggle between Main and AUX sources, short-press the knob. To activate the selected source’s CH7/8 level mode, long-press for 2 seconds. To reset to factory defaults for the selected system type, long-press the knob for >5 seconds.

3. Source/Function LED : Depending upon which system type is selected (see 4 below), this LED will indicate which source and level mode is currently selected. There are four LED modes: solid red, flashing red, solid blue, and flashing blue. In the default system Type-1, the only LED indication is solid red when the link8 is powered on. For the other three system types, solid red indicates the Main speaker level source is selected and solid blue is for the AUX source. Flashing indicates that CH7/8 level mode is active for the current source, which will time out after 5 seconds if no adjustments are made.

4. System Type Select: These dip-switches are for selecting one of four available system types for setting which knob functions and priority are enabled. Note that the up/down position for each switch is when looking at the back of the remote as shown above. Switch settings can be changed at any time on the remote without requiring access to the main link8 unit.

5. Type-1: Main CH7/8 Level Only (factory setting)
   For systems where only subwoofer level control is needed with a speaker level source, and no AUX source is connected to the link8. In this setting, the knob’s short-press and long-press functions (except reset) are disabled to prevent accidental selection.

6. Type-2: Main CH7/8 Level, AUX Volume & AUX CH7/8 Level
   For systems using the factory radio as the master volume for the Main speaker level input, an auxiliary source is connected to link8’s AUX input. When the Main source is selected, the knob adjusts the CH7/8 level only. When the AUX source is selected, knob priority is AUX volume and its CH7/8 level mode can be selected with a 2sec long-press.

7. Type-3: AUX Volume & AUX CH7/8 Level
   For stand-alone applications without a factory radio where only the link8’s AUX input is used as the system source. In this setting, AUX CH7/8 level mode can be accessed with a 2sec long-press, while the short-press for source select is disabled so cannot be accidentally changed.

8. Type-4: Master Volume & CH7/8 Level
   This setting is primarily for systems where factory radio volume is not used (e.g. fixed input signal level, volume dependent EQ, etc.), and that may also have an AUX source connected to the link8. In system Type-4, all knob functions are enabled. When either Main or AUX input is selected, knob priority is the master volume for that source. Independent CH7/8 level adjustment is also accessible for each source with a 2-second long press.

9. Remote Level Control Jack: This RJ45 jack is for connecting the remote to the RLC port on the main link8 unit with the supplied cable. A standard 8-conductor ethernet cable may also be used.

Note: The link8 will remember all level settings and which source was selected at last power off and return at the next power on, even if the battery is disconnected. However, if the remote is disconnected at powered on, the memory will be overridden to factory defaults and all levels will return to maximum 0dB.

Installation & System Wiring

It is important to read this manual thoroughly before starting your installation and always plan accordingly. Before installing any Wāvtech product, disconnect the negative (ground) wire from the vehicle’s battery to avoid damage to the vehicle or yourself. Following all guidelines will help provide years of enjoyment with your Wāvtech link8 audio interface.

• Ground Connection (GND): The GND terminal must be connected to a metal part of the vehicle that is welded to the vehicle body with ground plane back to the main battery ground attachment point (a.k.a. chassis ground). This wire should be a minimum of 18AWG and as short as possible to minimize the potential for noise to enter the system. The chassis ground connection point should have all of the paint removed and be scuffed to the bare metal. The ground wire should be terminated by a ground specific interlocking terminal such as the EARL terminal or ring terminal securely bolted to the vehicle with a star or lock washer and nut to prevent it from coming loose. Avoid using factory ground points to reduce the chance of induced noise from other components.

• Power Connection (+12V) : The constant power connection should be made at the vehicle battery when possible. For direct battery connection, a 1-amp fuse must be installed in line with the power wire within 18” of the battery and securely connected to the positive battery terminal bolt with a ring terminal. If connecting to another available constant +12V power source, a 1-amp in-line fuse must be added at the connection point. The power wire should be a minimum of 18AWG. Do not install the fuse until all other system connections have been made.

• Speaker Level Inputs (SPK) : Connect the speaker wires from the source unit to the corresponding input terminals at the interface. Always ensure the correct polarity of each channel when making these connections, as failure to do so can severely affect sound performance.

• Remote Input (REM IN) : If the source unit has a remote output wire (provides +12V only when turned on), connect it to the REM IN terminal. If a remote lead is unavailable, the link8 is also enabled with an automatic turn-on circuit that detects an audio signal from SPK and AUX inputs, as well as DC-offset from SPK inputs. While auto turn-on will work in most applications, there may be some cases were the detection level is not satisfactory, and connecting a +12V trigger to REM IN is needed.

• Remote Output (REM OUT ): Use the remote output to provide a +12V trigger to turn on amplifiers or other components. This +12V output is generated internally by the interface when turned on either by REM IN or automatic sensing and will provide over 500mA continuous current for external devices.
  Auxiliary Input (AUX): Connect the auxiliary low-level source to the 3.5mm AUX input jack with a quality 3-conductor stereo 3.5mm audio cable. If the source has RCA outputs, an adapter will be required. Ensure the audio cable is routed away from power wires to minimize the potential for induced noise.

• Remote Level Control (RLC): Connect the multi-function remote to the link8’s RLC port with the supplied 16.4ft/5m cable. Plan cable routing before mounting the remote to ensure proper length. If additional length is required, a standard 8-conductor CAT5 or CAT6 ethernet cable or extension may be used. The cable may also be shortened and re-terminated with an RJ45 connector and ethernet crimping tool.

System Examples

Example-1: Factory Radio (4-in/6-out)

Note: For systems where only remote sub-level control is needed for a speaker-level source, select system Type-1
(factory setting) at the multi-function remote. For a 4-channel source as shown above, multiple input configurations can be chosen with the link8. This particular 5-channel aftermarket system could benefit from retaining front/rear fading as well as a

Never-Zero subwoofer output with independent gain. To achieve this, the front speaker level signals from CH1/2 are also connected to CH7/8’s input via jumper wires, which allows CH7/8’s input select to be set to sum CH5+7/CH6+8 front and rear channels together for output to the subwoofer.

Example-2: Factory Amp + AUX (6-in/6-out)

Notes:

• For systems with a main speaker level source that will serve as the master volume control and an auxiliary source is connected to the link8, select system Type-2 at the multi-function remote. This provides AUX volume control as well as independent CH7/8 level adjustment for both main and AUX sources.
• In this factory amplified system example, a front 2-way signal is summed for a full-range output to an aftermarket component set, while the rear full-range signal is passed through for aftermarket coaxials. To preserve factory fader functionality while providing sub-output with remote level control, the front mid/woofer input signal from CH3/4 can be connected to CH7/8’s input with jumper wires as shown. Although not a full-range signal, it contains a useable low frequency range and will be crossed over at the amp anyway, so selecting CH5+7/CH6+8 will then provide Never-Zero summed front+rear output for a subwoofer connected to CH7/8. If it is unlikely the factory fader will be adjusted after installation, CH7/8’s input select can instead be set copy CH5/6’s rear signal internally without jumpers. Or if a factory subwoofer’s signal is available, connect it to CH7/8 and select direct input.

Example-3: Stand-Alone AUX

Note: For stand-alone systems where only the AUX input is used, select system Type-3 at the multi-function remote. This disables the remote’s source select function and sets knob priority to master volume control for AUX input. Portable devices such as smartphones or MP3 players typically have an output voltage of 1Vrms or less, so it is recommended to maximize the device’s unclipped output level and use the remote for the system’s master volume.

Example-4: Factory Amp w/DSP + AUX (8-in/8-out)

Notes:

• For factory amplified systems with volume-dependent DSP effects such as EQ or limiters, select system Type-4 at the multi-function remote. This enables all remote functions and sets knob priority to master volume control for both Main and AUX inputs. Independent CH7/8 level mode is also selectable for each source. Once the system is tuned and optimized for a specific fixed volume setting, the source unit’s volume should not be used (make note of the setting) and instead use the multi-function remote as the system’s sole master volume control.
• In this system example, the factory amplifier’s signal outputs are all useable for the aftermarket replacement system without summing except that the front woofer/midrange LP crossover is quite low for integration with a factory mid/tweet such as a 2.5” speaker. By summing CH1+3/CH2+4 together, CH3/4’s combined output can now be crossed over higher at the aftermarket amplifier for a bi-amped component set with proper integration for a true tweeter.
• For more detail on summing a factory 4-way system, see the signal flow diagram on pg3 and Example-5 below.

Example-5: Factory 4-way (8-in/2-out)

Note: For systems where no full-range signal is available, the link8 can be utilized purely as a 4-way summing line output converter without remote. In this example, the link8 is summing factory 4-way signals to a single pair of 2-channel full-range outputs so can be altered by aftermarket crossover, processor or amplifier(s) that is not capable of summing.

Installation Notes

• Vehicle Description
• Year, Make, Model:
• Trim Level / Package:

OEM Audio System Info

• Head Unit (type, BT/AUX in, etc.):
• Speakers (size/location, etc.):
• Subwoofer(s) (size/location, etc.):
• Amplifier(s) (location, output voltage, etc.):
• Other:

link8 Connections & Settings

• Installed Location:
• Wiring (connection locations, signal type, turn-on mode, etc):
• Settings (gain, max master vol, crossover, etc.):
• Other:

System Configuration

Specifications

Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Warranty & Service Care

This warranty is valid only to the original purchaser and is not transferrable to subsequent parties. This warranty is void if the product serial number has been altered or removed. Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to a period of express warranty as provided herein beginning with the date of the original purchase at retail, and no warranties, whether expressed or implied, shall apply to this product thereafter. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, therefore these exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

If your product needs service, you should contact Wāvtech Customer Service to receive a Return Authorization (RA) Number. Any product received without an RA number will be returned to the sender. Once your product is received and inspected by customer service, Wāvtech at its sole discretion, will repair or replace it with a new or remanufactured product at no charge. Damage caused by the following is not covered under warranty: accident, abuse, failure to follow instructions, misuse, modification, neglect, unauthorized repair, or water damage. This warranty does not cover incidental or consequential damages. This warranty does not cover the cost of removing or reinstalling the product. Cosmetic damage and normal wear are not covered under warranty.

For Service within the United States:
Monday – Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm MST

• Serial Number:
• Installation Date:
• Place of Purchase:

Important Notice for International Customers:
For products purchased outside the United States of America or its Territories, please contact your local distributor concerning specific procedures for your country’s warranty policy. International purchases are not covered by Wāvtech, LLC.

FAQ

• Q: What should I do if I encounter issues with the product?
  • A: If you experience problems with the product, return it to your authorized Wvtech dealer for assistance.
• Q: Can I install the product myself?
  • A: For safety and proper function, it is recommended to have the product installed by an authorized dealer or professional installer.
• Q: How should I protect the wiring during installation?
  • A: Use loom protection for wiring, avoid pointed edges and moving parts, and always use grommets when routing wiring through metal surfaces.

Wāvtech™
7931 E. Pecos Rd
Suite 113
Mesa, AZ 85212
480-454-7017
©Copyright 2017 Wāvtech, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

References

• Wāvtech
• Manual-Hub.com – Free PDF manuals!

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