UNiKA MP-Series MP-2800 Professional Power Amplifier Instruction Manual
- June 6, 2024
- UNiKA
Table of Contents
User Instructions
This booklet contains important information concerning
the proper and safe operation of your new amplifier..
MP-Series MP-2800 / MP-4000 / MP-5000
Made in Taiwan
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the user of the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the product.
CAUTION: Risk of the electrical shock – DO NOT OPEN!
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not remove the cover.
No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel.
WARNING: To prevent electrical shock or fire hazards, do not expose this
amplifier to rain or moisture. Before using this amplifier read the user
manual for further warnings.
**| CAUTION
Do not open – risk of electric shock| **
---|---|---
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER. THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER ALL SERVICES TO YOUR AUTHORIZED DEALER.
The lightning flash with an arrow triangular symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure, and
maybe of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.
The exclamation point triangular symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the user manual accompanying the amplifier.
IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS
- To reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
- Do not spill water or other liquids into or onto your unit.
- Do not attempt to operate this unit if the power cord has been frayed or broken.
- Do not attempt to remove or break off the ground prong from the electrical cord. This prong is used to reduce the risk of electrical shock and f re in case of an internal short.
- Disconnect the main power before making any type of connection.
- Do not remove the cover under any conditions. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
- Never plug this unit into a dimmer pack.
- Always be sure to mount this unit in an area that will allow proper ventilation. Allow about 6” (15cm) between this device and a wall.
- Do not attempt to operate this unit, if it becomes damaged.
- This unit is intended for indoor use only, use of this product outdoors voids all warranties.
- During long periods of non-use, disconnect the unit’s main power.
- Always mount this unit in a safe and stable manner.
- Power cords should be routed so they are not likely to be walked on, pinched by items placed upon or against them.
- Cleaning -The outside of the unit should be wiped down with a soft cloth and mild cleaner when needed.
- Heat -The amplifier should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- The fixture should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged.
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the unit.
C. The appliance has been exposed to rain or water.
D. The fixture does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000
amplifier. These amplifiers are a representation of UNiKA’s continuing
commitment to produce the best and highest quality audio products at an
affordable price. These amplifiers are designed to provide a big impact in
sound reproduction. Please read and understand this manual completely before
attempting to operate your new amplifier. This booklet contains important
information concerning the proper and safe operation of your new amplifier.
UNPACKING:
Every MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 amplifier has been thoroughly tested and has
been shipped in perfect operating condition. Carefully check the shipping
carton for damage that may have occurred during shipping. If the carton
appears to be damaged, carefully inspect your unit for any damage and be sure
all accessories necessary to operate the system have arrived intact. In the
event, that damage has been found or parts are missing, please contact your
dealer for further instructions.
INSTALLATION:
These amplifiers are designed to mount into a standard 19” rack. The front
panel provides four holes used to screw the unit into a rack. The unit also
provides a way to rear mount the unit into a rack for added security. Rear
mounting the unit is especially recommended if the unit is to mount into a
mobile rack.
MP-2800/4000/5000 FRONT PANEL
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Rack Mounting Ears – Two front panel mounting holes are provided on each mounting ear.
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AC Power Switch – MP Series amplifiers have a front-panel AC mains power switch.
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Mode Indicated LED – Red LED indicates “Parallel” Mode, Green LED indicates “Stereo” Mode, Yellow indicates “Bridge” Mode.
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UNiKA Logo and Model No – MP series have 3 types of 3U Models MP-2800 / MP-4000 / MP-5000.
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Fan Inlet Grills and Filter – MP Series amplifiers are cooled by two rear-mounted fans. Cool air from the front grills is filtered and flows over the heat sinks and exhausts to the backside. Make sure these outlets remain clear to allow unrestricted airflow.
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Limiter Switch – You can select limiter “ON” for limiter working, or turn “OFF” the limiter.
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Input Attenuators – Two input attenuators adjust the level for their respective amplifier channels.
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Clip LED – Illuminates at the clipping threshold. Continuous illumination also indicates that ACL (Active Clip Limiting) protection circuitry is engaged.
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Signal LED – Illuminates to indicate that a signal (above a minimum threshold) is present at the amplifier input and that the signal is being amplified.
MP-5000 REAR PANEL
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Fan Outlet Ports – Cooling air enters the amplifier through the front grills and exhausts through the fans. Be sure not to block these ports when installing the amplifier or other associated equipment. Air must flow unimpeded through these ports.
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Channel 2 Balanced 1/4″ TRS & XLR Input Connectors – These connectors accept input signals on balanced TRS and XLR input plugs. See figures 3-5 for information on polarity. Connectors for each channel are in parallel; the unused connectors may be used for “loop through” connection to other amplifiers. XLR pin setting: Pin-3/signal Negative, Pin-2/signal Positive, Pin-1/Ground.
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Channel 2 Subwoofer Mode On/Off Switch – Turns the subwoofer mode for channel two on and off.
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Channel 2 Frequency Adj. – This pot adjusts the frequency level sent to your speaker on channel two when using your amplifier in subwoofer mode.
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Channel 1 Frequency Adj.- This pot adjusts the frequency level sent to your speaker on channel one when using your amplifier in subwoofer mode.
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Channel 1 Subwoofer Mode On/Off Switch – Turns the subwoofer mode for channel one on and off.
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Channel 1 Balanced 1/4″ TRS & XLR Input Connectors – These connectors accept input signals on balanced TRS and XLR input plugs. See figures 3-5 for information on polarity. Connectors for each channel are in parallel; the unused connectors may be used for “loop through” connection to other amplifiers. XLR pin etting: Pin-3/signal Negative, Pin-2/signal Positive, Pin-1/Ground.
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Channel 2 XLR THRU Jack – This Jack is used to send a parallel signal from the
channel 2 input jack to another device or amplifier. -
Mode Selection Switch – This recessed, three-position switch configures the amplifier for Stereo, Parallel or Bridged Mode operation. Amplifiers are factory-configured for Stereo Mode. See section on Mode Selection for more information.
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Channel 1 XLR THRU Jack – This Jack is used to send a parallel signal from the channel 1 input jack to another device or amplifier.
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Reset Button – This button is used to reset the breaker.
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Channel 2 Speakon Output – Use pins 1+ and 1- of this 4-pole Speakon connector to connect to your speaker’s input jack.
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Channel 1 Speakon Output – Use pins 1+ and 1- of this 4-pole Speakon connector to connect to your speaker’s input jack.
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Channel 2 Output Jack / 5-Way Binding Post – Connect to your speaker’s input jack. Red is a positive signal and Black is a negative signal.
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Channel 1 Output Jack / 5-Way Binding Post – Connect to your speaker’s input jack. Red is a positive signal and Black is a negative signal.
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AC POWER Cord – Plug this cable into a standard 110V or 220V wall outlet. Be sure that the supplied voltage in your area matches the amplifiers’ required voltage. Never
plug your amplifier into a wall outlet that does not match the required voltage of your amplifier, serious damage may occur to your unit.
SET UP
INPUTS –
The MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 amplifier allows you to use two types of input
connectors per channel, an XLR female jack for balanced connections and a 1/4”
TRS female jack that will accept balanced and unbalanced connectors. Use these
connections to connect the output signal from a mixer, cross-over or EQ to
your MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 amplifiers. A balanced connection is recommended
for cable runs longer than 20ft. When constructing your own XLR cables follow
the pin configuration described below for proper connections. For cable runs
shorter than 20ft., you may choose the 1/4” TS unbalanced input option. The
1/4” TS unbalanced input option may be more convenient for most users due to
the abundant supply of prefabricated cables available at your local audio
dealer. You may use the two XLR “Input Thru” jacks to jump a parallel
connection to another amplifier or other device. For example: Connect an XLR
cable to the input of channel one. You may now connect an XLR cable from the
channel one “Input Thru” jack to the input jack of another amplifier’s channel
one input. This will reduce the use of “Y” cables.
| Male XLR Pin Configuration | Balanced TRS 1/4” Plug | Unbalanced TS 1/4” Plug |
|---|
OUTPUTS –
BINDING POST/BANANA PLUG: Connect your speakers to the binding post
outputs on the rear of the amplifier. The speaker wire may be connected by
bare wire (directly connected, usually for permanent connections), banana
plug, or spade connector. Connections are made to channel one and channel two
outputs for Stereo Mode or across the red terminals of channel one and channel
two for Mono Bridge Mode.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Although a speaker will operate with the positive and
negative leads plugged into either terminal on the amplifier binding post, be
sure to plug the negative lead into the black terminal and positive lead into
the red terminal. Ensuring proper polarity will avoid speakers being out of
phase that can cause a loss of bass response.
BANANA PLUG: (Figure 6)
When connecting your speakers to the amplifier using the banana plug, be sure
that the red and black caps on the binding post are completely screwed in.
Insert the banana plug into the caps of the binding post, be sure that the
banana plug is inserted securely to avoid the risk of popping out.
Typical speaker output using bare wire. Insert bare wire into the binding post
and tighten.
BARE WIRE CONNECTION: (Figure 7)
When connecting your speakers to the amplifier using bare wire, unscrew the
red and black caps on the binding post, be sure not to completely remove or
unscrew the red and black caps. Strip back the wire insulation ½” (13mm).
Insert the bare wire into the hole that was revealed by unscrewing the binding
post cap. After inserting the wire into the binding post hole, screw the
binding post cap down on the wire. To reduce the risk of shock or damage to
your amplifier, be sure that the wire connected to one binding post does not
come in contact with that of another.
Typical speaker output using spade connectors.
Insert bare wire into the binding post and tighten.
SPADE CONNECTOR: (Figure 8)
When connecting your speakers to the amplifier using a spade connector,
unscrew the red and black caps on the binding post, be sure not to completely
remove or unscrew the red and black caps. Insert the spade connector into the
binding post and tighten the caps down on the spade connector. To reduce the
risk of shock or damage to your amplifier, be sure that the wire connected to
one binding post does not come in contact with that of another.
MONO BRIDGE CONNECTIONS:
Mono bridge operation connections will follow the above descriptions, however,
when operating in mono bridge operation the speaker connections will run
between the two positive (red) leads. Use channel two positive output terminal
for the speaker’s negative connection and channel one positive output terminal
for the speaker’s positive connection.
STEREO CONNECTIONS USING THE NEUTRIK SPEAKON OUTPUT CONNECTORS:
Recent regulatory requirements in Europe have outlawed the use of the dual
banana plug and force amplifier users to terminate their speaker cables with
spade lugs or bare wire ends. This is not advantageous to most users that want
to reconfigure their systems or quickly change out an amplifier. The Neutrik
Speakon connector provides the most convenient solution to this problem,
eliminating the need for spade lugs or bare wire end cables. Major speaker
manufacturers have been using Speakon connectors on their products for years,
so chances you are ready to use the Speakon connection. With Speakon
connectors, you can connect straight from the amplifier to the speaker. The
Speakon connector used on this amplifier meets all known safety regulations.
Once wired correctly, the connector cannot be plugged in backward, causing the
type of inverted polarity situations that have become common with banana
hookups. This connection will provide a safe, secure, and reliable method of
connecting your speakers to your new amplifier. You can purchase the Speakon
NL4FC connectors from your local audio dealer.
SPEAKON ASSEMBLY:
You will need a pair of Neutrik Speakon NL4FC connectors. You will also need a high-quality two or four-conductor Speakon cable, a pair of needle-nosed pliers, and a 1.5-mm Allen key to assemble the Speakon connectors to your speaker wire. To assemble the Neutrik Speakon NL4FC connector, complete the following steps:
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Strip back 3/4-inch of the cable casing. Strip off 1/4-inch from the end of each of the conductors down to the bare wire, and insert the brass fittings (Figure 9).
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Slide the wire tensioner (D) and the Speakon coupler (E) through the cable end. See Figure 10.
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Insert each wire with the brass fittings into the top of the appropriate slot of the connector insert (B) as shown in Figure 11. Use a 1.5-mm Allen key to tighten the connection (Figure 12).
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Be sure to properly match the positive (+) and negative (-) leads of each wire (Figure 13).
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Slide the connector insert (B) into the connector housing (A), making sure that the large notch on the outer edge of the insert lines up with the large groove on the inside of the connector housing. The insert should slide easily through the housing and out the other side until it extends approximately 3/4-inch from the end of the housing.
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Slide the cable tensioner (D) along the cable and insert into the housing (A), making sure that the large notch lines up with the large groove on the inside of the connector housing (A). The cable tensioner (D) should slide easily into the housing until only 3/8-inch of the tensioner (D) extends from the back end of the connector.
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Slide the coupler (E) along the cable and screw it onto the end of the housing (A). Before tightening, you may want to test the connector to make sure it has been assembled properly.
OPERATING MODES
STEREO OPERATION: Page 8/ Figure 14 details an example of a typical
stereo set-up. Connect your inputs into channels one and two of the amplifier.
Connect your speakers to the outputs on the rear of the amplifier. Be sure
that your front gain controls are turned down to their lowest level (fully
counterclockwise). Turn your amplifier on. Turn your input source level up.
Use your front gain controls to regulate the output volume. Be sure not to
raise the volume to the clip level, however, an intermittent clip signal is
acceptable.
MONO BRIDGE OPERATION: Page 9/ Figure 15 details a mono bridge set-up. Be
sure your amplifier and all other audio equipment are powered down. Flip the
Parallel/Stereo/Mono Bridge switch to the Mono Bridge position. Connect the
input signal to channel one. Connect your speaker across the red output
binding post on the rear of your amplifier. Turn your equipment on (your
amplifier should always be the last item you turn on). Apply an input source
signal to your amplifier. Use the channel one gain to regulate your amplifier
output.
PARALLEL MONO : Parallel ties the two-channel line inputs together, so
that they will both be driven by the same signal, without the need for
external jumpers or wiring. Both amplifier channels will operate
independently. Though they carry the same signal, their gain controls affect
only their respective channels, and they both must use their respective
speaker outputs. Never attempt to parallel the speaker outputs, this may cause
serious damage to your amplifier! This mode is recommended when using the
MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 to run bass speakers, to achieve a better low end. To
run in parallel mono mode connect your system as you would if you were going
to run in stereo mode. Then flip the mode switch to Parallel. Be sure the
amplifier is off or the power is disconnected before making any changes.
SUBWOOFER MODE: This mode sends low frequencies to your speakers without
the use of an external crossover. The subwoofer operation can be operated in
stereo, parallel, or bridged modes. Change the different operating modes by
flipping the mode switch on the rear of the unit to your desired operating
mode. Also, set the subwoofer mode switch to the ”SUBWOOFER” position. Use the
frequency selector to adjust the subwoofer output frequency from 20Hz to
200Hz. The different subwoofer modes are listed as follows:
BRIDGE SUBWOOFER – This operation allows you to get the most possible
power out of your amplifier for the sole purpose of running a high-powered
subwoofer loudspeaker in mono. To avoid amplifier overheating, never run the
amplifier below 4 ohms in this mode. In this mode you may use the frequency
adjustment on the rear of the amplifier, to control the frequency output
level. Frequencies may be adjusted from 20Hz to 200Hz. Page 10 / Figure 17
details a typical Bridge Subwoofer set-up.
STEREO SUBWOOFER – This operation is similar to the Bridge Subwoofer
operation but in stereo. This operation allows you to run several subwoofers
down to a minimum of 2 ohms. To avoid amplifier overheating, never run the
amplifier below 2 ohms in this mode. Set up this mode as you would a standard
Stereo set-up. Be sure both channels are set to “SUBWOOFER.” In this mode you
may use the frequency adjustment on the rear of the amplifier, to control the
bass frequency output level. Frequencies may be adjusted from 20Hz to 200Hz.
Page 11 / Figure 18 details a typical Stereo Subwoofer set-up.
PARALLEL SUBWOOFER – This operation is similar to the Stereo Subwoofer
operation but in parallel. When running subwoofers, it is usually recommended
to run them in mono mode to achieve a cleaner tighter low end. This operation
allows you to run several subwoofers down to a minimum of 2 ohms. To avoid
amplifier overheating, never run the amplifier below 2 ohms in this mode. Set
up this mode as you would a standard Stereo set-up. Be sure both channels are
set to “SUBWOOFER” and the mode switch is set to “Parallel.” In this mode you
may use the frequency adjustment on the rear of the amplifier, to control the
bass frequency output level. Frequencies may be adjusted from 20Hz to 200Hz.
ONE CHANNEL NORMAL / ONE CHANNEL SUBWOOFER (BI-AMP) – You may also use
your amplifier to bi-amp your system. You may use one side of the amplifier to
power a subwoofer and the other side to power a full-range speaker. Follow the
setup guides listed above to mix and match your operations.
PROTECTION
LIMITER – The MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 amplifiers come with a built-in
limiter. When the input signal overloads, the “CLIP LED” indicates a signal
overload, at this time, the volume should be lowered to reduce distortion. If
the input gain level is not reduced the built-in limiter will activate. During
signal overload, the limiter will reduce the input audio signal enough to
minimize the amount of clipping. A limiter takes the gain of an overloading
signal and reduces it, the reduction in gain reduces distortion that can cause
damage to your speakers and amplifier. During normal operation below clipping,
and momentary clips on peaks, the limiter does not affect the audio signal and
is inaudible. It will allow brief clipping of peaks and will only activate
when continuous hard clipping occurs. During excessive clipping, the limiter
will reduce the audio signal enough to minimize the amount of clipping. When
the input signal decreases enough that clipping ends, the limiter will
deactivate and cease its gain reduction. The limiter has a fixed threshold and
can not be adjusted.
SAFE POWER LEVELS AT DIFFERENT OUTPUT LOADS: 8-Ohm Loads: The amplifier
can operate at its rated power level without the risk of overheating. However,
it may cause excessive temperature if it is pushed hard enough to continually
light the “CLIP” indicator, the amplifier’s average output power can reach its
maximum peak. 4-Ohm Loads: If the “CLIP” indicator flashes occasionally, the
amplifier is approaching its Maximum long-term power capacity. If it is lit
about half the time, the amplifier channel will probably go into thermal
protection within a few minutes. 2-Ohm Loads: Except for an occasional flash,
keep the “CLIP” indicator dark to avoid overheating the amplifier channel.
Clipping should be kept to a reasonable minimum. An amplifier’s peak current
draw at full output power into 2 ohms is several times what the “normal ” draw
is, but its various protection circuits will prevent this condition from
lasting more than a minute or two.
SHORT CIRCUIT PROTECTION – The MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 amplifiers come
with built-in Output Short Circuit Protects. The Output Short Circuit
Protection protects the output devices of the amplifier from short circuits
and stressful loads. If your speaker lines are short, the amplifier
automatically detects this problem and discontinued operation for that
channel. If one side of your amplifier becomes shorted and goes into protect
mode, the other side will continue to operate normally. Channel output during
the “Short Circuit Protection” will be interrupted (i.e. no sound output).
Short Circuit Protection can usually be traced back to the signal output line
(i.e. speaker line). Check the line from the output terminal of the amplifier
to the speaker. If this line is good, check the internal speaker connections
and components. A short circuit will usually be traced to a bad cable or a bad
speaker component and is rarely traced to the amplifier itself.
THERMAL PROTECTION – Dual 2-speed fans on the MP-2800/MP-4000/MP-5000 amplifiers provide adequate cooling. During low-level output, the fans run at normal speeds. During high output and as heat raises, (exceeding 50°C.), the fans will run at higher speeds to aid the cooling process. If the heatsink temperature exceeds 91°C., the amplifier will mute until the amplifier cools down. When the amplifier cools below 90°C., the amplifier will return to normal operations. Be sure not to operate your amplifier below the minimum load ratings to reduce the risk of overheating problems.
INPUT/OUTPUT PROTECTION – The input circuits are isolated by resistors.
An ultrasonic network uncouples RF from the output and helps to keep the
amplifier stable with reactive loads.
OPERATING VOLTAGE (AC MAINS) – On the rear panel will indicate the
correct AC mains voltage. Connecting to the wrong voltage is dangerous and may
damage the amplifier. Always be sure the source voltage for your areas matches
the required voltage for your amplifier.
GAIN CONTROLS – The gain controls are located on the front panel and are
calibrated in 2dB of attenuation from full gain. It is best to a d just the
amplifier so no “hissing” is heard from speakers with no music being played,
this will ensure the lowest possible distortion during normal operation.
AMPLIFIER FEATURES:
THRU – THRU will allow the user to daisy-chain one amplifier’s signal
input into another amplifier. Plug the signal source outputs into the first
amplifier’s input, patch from the amplifier’s THRU jacks to the next
amplifier’s input, and so on, daisy-chaining as many amplifiers as there is no
excessive level loss.
LED INDICATORS – Each channel has one red LED indicating signal clipping
and one green LED indicating input signal is present.
FUNCTION INDICATORS – These green/red/yellow LED indicators to detail the
amplifier’s current operating mode (Stereo, Parallel, or Bridge).
MP-SERIES AMPLIFIER SPECIFICATIONS
| MP-2800| MP-4000| MP-5000
---|---|---|---
R.M.S. Output Power 2 Ch Driven 2ohms/4ohms/8ohms| 2ohms 1200W| 2ohms 1600W|
2ohms 2400W
4ohms 1000W| 4ohms 1400W| 4ohms 2000W
1KHz 1% THD| 8ohms 600W| 8ohms 800W| 8ohms 1200W
R.M.S. Output Power Bridged Mono 4ohms/8ohms
1KHz 1% THD| 2400W/2000W| 3200W/2800W| 4800W/4000W
Input Sensitivity| 1V| 1V| 1.2V
Frequency Response (20Hz-20KHz)| ±0.2dB| ±0.2dB| ±0.2dB
Total Harmonic Distortion| <0.025%| <0.02%| <0.02%
Crosstalk @ 1KHz| >60dB| >60dB| >65dB
Damping Factor| >600| >550| >400
Signal To Noise Ratio
below rated power 20Hz to 20kHz, A-Weighted| >100dB| >100dB| >100dB
Power Consumption
@ Maximum Output Power 8ohms| 1380W 12.54A@110y| 1900W 17.27A@110y| 2680W
24.36A@110y
Output Circuitry| CLASS H| CLASS H| CLASS H
Cooling System| Dual 2-speed fans and heatsinks| Dual 2-speed fans and
heatsinks| Dual 2-speed fans and heatsinks
Dimensions (HxWxD)| 133 x 483 x 465 mm| 133 x 483 x 465 mm| 133 x 483 x 465 mm
Weight| 25.3kg| 28kg| 32.5kg
Rack Space| 3U| 3U| 3U