WONDOM GAB8 Multichannel Amplifier Module User Manual

GAB8
User Manual

GAB8 Multichannel Amplifier Module

GAB8
10 x 50W Class D 7.3 / 5.3
Configurable Audio Amplifier Board TPA3244
The GAB8 is a compact and powerful audio amplifier board that is designed for game machine applications with a total output power of 500 watts (10 x 50 W).
Features:

• 7.1 USB UAC2.0 Codec as Audio Input.
• Versatile Output Modes: Choose from 7.3 or 5.3 Configurations.
• Supporting External Plug-and-Play Modules as Daughter Boards.
• Higher Output Power to 75W Peak with Fan Installed and DC 24V Supply.

Parameters:

Supply Voltage| (15V to 30V) Mini-Fit Jr 2×2 CKT
Output Channel| Mini-Fit Jr 2×7 CKT
Output Power| 50W peak per Channel without Fan Installed
System| Audio 7.3 / 5.3 System
---|---
Audio Input| USB Type-C
Product Size| 152.40 (w) x 114.30 (d) x 28.60 (h) mm
Weight| 443g

Mechanical Drawing
(Nominal Dimensions, mm)

NOTE: The GAB8 amplifier comes with a standard 15mm fan.
Upon customer request, a 10mm fan is available at an additional cost of $1.57.

Specifications are subjected to change without any further notice. Copyright © 2023 by Wondom Audio Technology. All rights reserved.
For more information please visit www.wondom.com

Precautions
Safety Precautions
Start by thoroughly reading the user manual provided with your GAB8 amplifier.
It contains essential safety information and guidelines specific to your device.

• Check that the impedance (ohms) of your speakers matches the GAB8’s requirements. Using speakers with the incorrect impedance can damage the amplifier or speakers.
• Be cautious with volume levels, especially when testing or initially setting up your system. Sudden loud sounds can harm your hearing and potentially damage your speakers.
• Ensure that GAB8 is properly grounded and connected to a stable power supply. If you are not going to use GAB8 for a long time, be sure to disconnect GAB8 from the power supply to prevent any damage or energy wastage.
• If you have children, secure or place the amplifier out of their reach to prevent accidents and potential damage.

CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if mishandled, could result in moderate or minor personal injury, and/or property damage.

Installation Precautions

• Organize and secure cables to prevent tripping hazards and accidental disconnections. Use cable clips or ties to keep wires neat and tidy.

• Place GAB8 securely on a stable surface. Serious damage to this product may result if it falls. Do not allow anything to rest on the GAB8.
  Do not place GAB8 where a person can step or trip on GAB8.

• Place GAB8 in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup and prolong the life. Do not place GAB8 near heat sources, or in a place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust, or mechanical shock.

• If the GAB8 is rack-mounted or wall-mounted, ensure that it is securely attached according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Maintain records of your purchase and warranty information. If you encounter problems or have questions, contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance.

Connectors Layout
GAB8 Modules

1. Power Supply
   GAB8 supports a wide voltage range of 15V to 30V. It’s crucial to connect a compatible power source within this voltage range to ensure the board functions correctly. For the best results, a 24V switching power supply is recommended. Refer to [Page 7] of  the documentation for specific power supply recommendations.

2. Audio Output
   Features a 7.3 speaker configuration, providing audio output for gaming and entertainment needs.

3. Control
   “SHDN” and “MUTE” pins operate on an active low basis; shorting them to GND triggers shutdown or mute mode.

4. USB Audio
   GAB8 can function as an audio input for the 7.1 USB UAC2.0 codec internal circuit. This feature allows you to connect a wide range of audio sources and supporting audio with 24-bit depth and a sampling rate of 48,000Hz, providing studio-quality audio.

5. Fan
   A robust heatsink is mounted on GAB8 for heat dissipation. You can connect the fan to a designated port. The fan will activate when the heatsink temperature reaches 45°C, ensuring optimal performance, especially during extended use or when operating  GAB8 at peak power levels.

CAUTION: GAB8 does not provide reverse polarity protection. Therefore, extreme caution must be exercised to ensure correct polarity during connection.Permanent damage caused by reverse polarity will not be covered under warranty.

Layout Ports And Control

Connecting the GAB8

Electrical & Audio Performance Parameters

GAB8 Electrical Performance Parameters

Parameter

| Conditions| Min.| Typ.| Max.|

Units

---|---|---|---|---|---
Efficiency| 10x50W@24V, 4Ohm, 1kHz| –| 90| –| %
Minimum Load Impedance| Floating may lead to EMI issues| 3| 4| 16| Ω
Nominal Power Requirement| 24V power supply recommended| 150| 350| 750| W
Operating Voltage| 4Ω or higher, if resistance 3Ω, use 20V or less| 15| 24| 30| V
Standby Power| SHDN short to GND, Signal detected@24V, 0.13A| –| 3.12| –|

W

Idle Power| MUTE short to GND, Signal detected@24V, 0.53A| –| 12.7| –
Power Consumption| 1/4 of max output power @4Ω,1kHz,24V| –| 240| –| W

GAB8 Audio Performance Parameters

Parameter                             Conditions| Min.       Typ. Max.           Units
---|---
Output Noise Level| A-weighting, USB connection activated| L&R| –| 169| –| uV
SNR| 10x50W@4Ohm, A-weighting| –| 101| –| dB
THD+N| 1W@4Ω, 1kHz, / CH| –| 0.18| –|

%

10W@4Ω, 1kHz, / CH| –| 0.14| –
50W@4Ω, 1kHz, / CH| –| 0.69| –
DC Offset| –| –| 10| –| mV

Speaker Configurations

Location of Each Speaker
7.1-Channel Speaker System

5.1-Channel Speaker System

Note: When you connect only one rear speaker, place the rear speaker directly behind the listening position.
As the subwoofer (SUB) does not emit highly directional signals. you can place it wherever you want.

Names And Function of Each Speaker

from front left/right channel
FR| Front Right Speaker
CEN| Center Speaker| Produces vocal sounds from center channel
SSL| Side Surround Left Speaker| Produces sounds from side surrounds
left/right channel
SSR| Side Surround Right Speaker
RL| Rear Left Speaker| Produces sounds from
rear left/right channel
RR| Rear Right Speaker
SUB| Subwoofer| Produces LFE (low frequency eect) channel
sounds and reinforces bass parts of other channels

Speaker Configurations
7.3-channel speaker system

Prior to connecting any cables, ensure that the power cable is not connected. This is crucial for safety during the setup process.
Before attaching speaker cables to the speaker terminals, doublecheck that wires from the speaker cables are not in contact with each other. This precaution helps prevent electrical interference and ensures proper connectivity.

*If you connect only one rear speaker, connect it to the L (+/–) terminals.
Note: A 7.3 system consists of seven main speakers (Front Left – FL, Center – CEN, Front Right – FR, Side Surround Left – SSL, Side Surround Right – SSR, Rear Left – RL, Rear Right – RR) and three subwoofers. In this configuration, each speaker should be  connected individually to the audio source using appropriate wiring connection.
Additionally, three subwoofers are employed for enhanced bass performance. In contrast, a 7.1 audio system includes the same seven main speakers as the 7.3
configuration, but it utilizes only one subwoofer dedicated to handling bass frequencies.
NOTE: To configure your audio system for a 5.3 speaker setup, it’s important to make specific adjustments. You will need to remove the Rear Left (RL) and Rear Right (RR) speakers that are present in a 7.3 system. Please ensure that you make secure and proper wire connections from the connector to each speaker in your chosen configuration to optimize your audio setup.

Speaker Configurations
Connecting to 7.1 Surround System and Setting up an 8-Channel Multi-Audio System:
Connecting Hardware: Connect the GAB8 amplifier to your PC’s USB Type-C port using a Type-C cable. Plug in the power cable to the GAB8 amplifier and connect it to a power source to ensure the amplifier has power. Connect the speaker cables from all 8  speakers to their
respective channels on the GAB8 amplifier to maintain audio balance.
Configuring Audio Settings: Right-click on the speaker icon in the Windows taskbar or go to the Sound settings in the Control Panel.
Select “GAB8 WONDOM” as the playback device. Click on “Configure” under the GAB8 WONDOM device. In the Configure window, select “7.1 Surround” from the sound format dropdown menu to configure audio output for 7.1 channel surround sound. Test  audio through your PC to ensure that sound is coming from all 8 connected speakers. Under “Advanced sound options,” select 24-bit, 48000 Hz Studio Quality.

Enabling 8-Channel Multi-Audio in Audacity:
Open Audacity: Launch the Audacity audio editing software on your computer.
Enable Advanced Mixing Options: Click on the “Edit” menu at the top of the Audacity window to reveal a dropdown menu. From this menu, select “Preferences.” This will open the Audacity Preferences window.Inside the Audacity Preferences window, look for  the “Import/Export” section in the left sidebar.Within this section, you will find various preferences related to importing and exporting audio files. Locate and tick the checkbox labeled “Use advanced mixing options.”
Enabling this option is crucial for working with multiple audio channels effectively.
Prepare Your Audio File: Before you can enable 8-channel multiaudio, you need to have an audio file with 8 separate audio tracks or channels. Ensure that your audio file is ready for importing into Audacity.

Import the 8-Channel Audio: Go back to the main Audacity window.
Use the “File” menu to select “Import” and then “Audio.” Locate and select your prepared 8-channel audio file from your computer’s storage. Audacity will import this file, recognizing it as an audio track with multiple channels.
Configure Each Channel: After importing the audio file, you will see it represented as a single track in Audacity. Click on the dropdown arrow near the track’s title to reveal the individual channels or tracks.
You should see all 8 channels listed separately. Configure each channel according to your preferences. You can adjust volume levels, apply effects, or make any necessary edits to individual channels.
Export as WAV: Once you have configured the channels to your satisfaction, it’s time to export the audio as an 8-channel WAV file. Go to the “File” menu and select “Export” and then “Export Audio.” Choose a location on your computer to save the file and  provide a name for it.
Select the Appropriate Format: In the export settings dialog, make sure to save as type “WAV (Microsoft)” and select on encoding dropdown “Signed 24-bit PCM” as the export format. This format is suitable for preserving high-quality audio. Click the “Save”  button to confirm your export settings and save the audio file.
Playback in Windows Media Player: Once the 8-channel audio file is saved, you can open it in Windows Media Player or any other compatible media player. When played, each channel will be heard separately, providing an 8-channel audio experience.In this  setup, it’s important to note that all speakers will act as full range, capable of reproducing the entire audio frequency spectrum,
NOTE: Multi-audio system typically requires a specific number of speakers to match the number of audio channels. However, if the you has only 2 or 3 speakers, you can still work with limitations to enjoy multi-audio content.In Audacity, identify the channels  or tracks in the audio content and assign them to the available speakers as per the your’s preference. For example, if there are 5 audio channels but only 2 speakers, you can assign 3 channels to the first speaker and the remaining 2 channels to the second  speaker. Audacity provides the flexibility to customize channel placement.
NOTE: You can also export a track into Audacity and set their preferences for each channel to play 7.1 LPCM, allowing for further customization of the audio playback. After importing the audio file, you will see it represented as a single track in Audacity. Click on  the dropdown arrow near the track’s title to reveal the individual channels or tracks. Ensure that you have 8 channels available for playback. These steps should help you set up and configure your GAB8 amplifier for 7.1 surround sound on your PC.

Accessories

Power Cable

Usage: Connect to compatible power source.
Input: Voltage range of 15V to 30V
Length: 500mm±50mm

Audio Output Cable

Usage: Audio output for gaming and entertainment needs.
Length: 200mm±10mm

Fan

Usage: Sissipate heat from the GAB8’s heatsink, ensuring optimal performance during extended use.
Size: 60x60x10(mm)
Wire Length: 290mm±20mm

USB Type C Cable Clip

Usage: Secure and prevent any unintended movement of the
USB Type-C cable.
USB Type C
Cable Size:
<Ø5mm

Optional Accessories

JST PH 4 Pin Cable

Usage: Control Function.
Length: The cable length may vary and depends on your specific requirements.

Universal Wire Connector

Usage:
Simplifies the connection of GAB8’s audio output cable to individual speaker cables.
Size: 38.4mmx13.4mm x14.5mm

L Bracket

Usage: Mounting and securely holding the GAB8 in place.
Size: 6.0”x4.5”

Warranty Terms and Product

Usage Restrictions
Wondom products come with a one-year warranty starting from the date of purchase. Customers are responsible for the cost of returning the goods to the seller, and by making a purchase, you agree to this condition.
Due to the nature of DIY products, visible damage or use on screw holes or tinning of solder pads directly invalidates the warranty. Damage caused by the use of incorrect power sources, such as exceeding the specified voltage range or reverse polarity, is not  covered under warranty. All Wondom products undergo thorough testing before shipment. We do not accept bulk returns after a bulk purchase. If you are unsure of the quantity you need, please purchase the appropriate quantity as needed. All Wondom  products are intended for DIY use only and do not support any industrial applications. The rated operating temperature range is -10-50°C.

Distributed by:

Sure Electronics Co., Ltd.
Professional Industrial Audio Solution Provider
3F, Building F6, No. 9, Weidi Road,
Xianlin, Qixia Dist., Nanjing, China.
+86(25)8526-0046 | [email protected]
To view our products and purchase, please visit our website: store.sure- electronics.com

store.sure-electronics.com

Designed by:
Wondom Audio Technology
58-7-2, Jalan Cantonment,
Wisma Fortune Heights, 10250, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
+60(4)2189323 l [email protected]
(Please use phone calls or email instead of WhatsApp or iMessage.)

www.wondom.com

Purchasing Rights
When you’re considering buying our product in large quantities, here’s what you need to know:
Bulk Purchase Rights: The number of products you can buy at once is determined by your single purchase, not your total annual purchases.
Customization and Pricing: If you wish to customize our product, the options and costs depend on the quantity you purchase in a_ single transaction.
Retail Purchases: For individual purchases, you can only buy our product through our authorized distributor platforms. Please note that the listed prices on these platforms may change over time.
Bundled Pricing for 100 Units: When you buy a minimum of 100 units in one transaction, you may qualify for a special bundled price for that quantity.
Customization for 500 Units or More: If you’re planning to purchase 500 units or more, you have the option to customize various aspects of the product. This includes changes to the product’s appearances, such as color, size, logo, cable length, and packaging  materials. Additionally, you can customize the firmware by altering the product string. We also offer a range of services, which encom- pass wire kit, panel, cabinet, and mount bracket design. To explore these customization options further, please contact us via  email for detailed information and to discuss your specific requirements.
Standard Price List: For orders of 500 units or more, you can request our standard price list by reaching out to our customer support.
Pricing for Bulk vs. Bundled: It’s important to note that the price for buying in bulk is not significantly different from the bundled price for 100 units.

Origin and Design

Location
All Wondom products are designed, manufactured, assembled, and shipped from China. The products’ country of origin is China. We do not provide any services for sales, shipping, or manufacturing from other regions.

Connection Guide for GAB8

Power Supply
J005 MiniFit Jr.-4.20mm-4Pos
DC 15V-30V

Audio Output
J012 MiniFit Jr.-4.20mm-14Pos
Output Speaker Configuration (7.3): FL+ FR + RL + RR + SSR + SSL + C . SUB x 3
Front Left (FL), Front Right(FR), Rear Left(RL), Rear Right(RR), Side Surrounding
Left(SSL), Side Surrounding Right(SSR), Center(C), Subwoofer(SUB) x 3. below are all its pin definition.

C

Audio Output
J013 MiniFit Jr.-4.20mm-14Pos

C

Circuit Configuration & Definition for GAB8

Control & Switching Frequency
Synchronisation
J003 PH-2.0mm-4Pos

Circuit

| Definition| Description|

Functional Description

---|---|---|---
1| SHDN| Control the GAB8’s shutdown mode| Consumes minimal power or enters a low-power state. When SHDN is connected or shorted to GND (ground), it activates the shutdown mode. This is useful for conserving power or turning off the device when it’s not in use.
2| MUTE| Control GAB8’s mute mode.| perates on an active low basis. Shorting MUTE to GND activates the mute mode, which silences or attenuates the audio output. This is often used to temporarily silence the device while keeping it powered on.
3| SYNC| Switching frequency synchronization with another  board.| Allows to synchronize its switching frequency with the external source. This feature enhances versatility in system setups, ensuring that multiple devices or components in a system operate in sync with each  other.
4| GND| Ground| –

Control & Switching Frequency Synchronisation connector controlling and enhancing the functionality of your GAB8 device. SHDN and MUTE circuits control power and audio output states, while SYNC offers synchronization capabilities for system setups, all  while GND serves as a stable reference point for electrical connections.
Fan Connector
J011 PH-2.0mm-2Pos

receives a constant +12V power supply, which is necessary for the fan to operate. This voltage powers the fan’s motor and allows it to spin at the desired speed to cool down the components in your GAB8 device.
2| GND| Ground| –

Fan connector on GAB8 device has two circuits: one supplies +12V voltage to power the fan, while the other provides the necessary ground connection. This connector enable the fan to operate effciently and cool down the components within your device,  helping maintain optimal operating temperatures.
Power Supply
J005 MiniFit Jr.-4.20mm-4Pos
DC 15V-30V

Connect external DC power supply within the voltage range (15V to 30V). GAB8 should use this specified range voltage to power its internal components and perform its intended functions.
4

Audio Output
J012 MiniFit Jr.-4.20mm-14Pos

Connection

| Subwoofer 3 (Negative)| Rear Right (Negative)| Rear Left (Negative)| No Connection
Functional Description| Reproduces audio from the right side of the

listening area

| Reproduces audio from the left side of the

listening area.

| –| Provides the return path for subwoofer audio

signals.

| Provides the return path for rear right audio channel signals.| Provides the return path for rear left audio

channel signals.

| –
Circuit| 8| 9| 10| 11| 12| 13| 14
Definition| SSR+| SSL+| NC| SUB3+| RR+| RL+| NC
Description| Side Surround Right (Positive)| Side Surround Left (Positive)| No Connection| Subwoofer 3 (Positive)| Rear Right (Positive)| Rear Left (Positive)| No Connection
Functional Description| Complements SSR- by carrying the positive audio

signal.

| Complements SSL- by carrying

the positive audio signal.

| –| Complements SUB3- by

carrying the positive subwoofer audio

signal.

| Complements RR- by carrying the positive rear right audio channel signal.| Complements RL- by carrying the positive rear left audio channel

signal.

| –

Audio Output
J013 MiniFit Jr.-4.20mm-14Pos

Connection
Functional Description| Reproduces audio from the front right audio channel.| Reproduces audio from the front left audio channel.| –| Provides the return path for subwoofer 2 audio signals.| Provides the return path for the center audio channel signals.| Provides the return path for subwoofer 1 audio signals.| –
Circuit| 8| 9| 10| 11| 12| 13| 14
Definition| FR+| FL+| NC| SUB2+| CEN0+| SUB1+| NC
Description| Front Right (Positive)| Front Left (Positive)| No Connection| Subwoofer 2 (Positive)| Center (Positive)| Subwoofer 1 (Positive)| No Connection
Functional Description| Complements FR- by carrying the positive front right audio signal.| Complements FL- by carrying the positive front left audio signal.| –| Complements SUB2- by carrying  the ositive subwoofer  2 audio signal.| Complements CEN0- by carrying the positive center audio signal.| Complements SUB1- by carrying the positive subwoofer 1 audio signal.| –

THD+N Ratio vs. Measured Level

Frequency Response

Signal to Noise Ratio

Noise Level

FFT Spectrum

Documents / Resources

| WONDOM GAB8 Multichannel Amplifier Module [pdf] User Manual
GAB8 Multichannel Amplifier Module, GAB8, Multichannel Amplifier Module, Amplifier Module, Module
---|---

References

• electronics.com
• WONDOM OFFICIAL SHOP, WONDOM JAB5, WONDOM DSP, Sure Electronics, Signal Amplifier, tpa3116 Amplifier Board, 2000 watt Amplifier, Amplifier Board, Amplifier Develop, Audio diy, Amplifier Diy, jab5, jab4, jab3, icp5, tpa3116, tpa3110, adau1701, 100/12, dsp,
• WONDOM OFFICIAL SHOP, WONDOM JAB5, WONDOM DSP, Sure Electronics, Signal Amplifier, tpa3116 Amplifier Board, 2000 watt Amplifier, Amplifier Board, Amplifier Develop, Audio diy, Amplifier Diy, jab5, jab4, jab3, icp5, tpa3116, tpa3110, adau1701, 100/12, dsp,

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