Contents
How to install and operate the DLS ULTIMATE A-series amplifiers A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7 & A8

Welcome!

This owners manual is written in easy english and uses a lot of drawings to simply the installation and use of the above amplifiers. Your DLS amplifier must be installed correctly in order to work well. This manual will show you how to install the amplifier like a pro. Please read the entire manual before beginning the installation. Install the amplifier yourself if you feel confident with our instructions and if you have the proper tools. However if you feel unsure, turn over the installation job to someone better suited to it.
Caution. Installation. Tools and materials needed. Amplifier installation kit. Routing Wires. Wiring Power terminals. Inputs and controls. Input wiring.. Input level control. Phase control.. Remote bass level.. Protection circuits. Input & controls A7. Crossovers / filters.. Crossovers / filters A7.. Professional tips.. Wiring examples: DLS A1 & A2.. DLS A3... DLS A4... DLS A5... DLS A6... DLS A7... DLS A8... Testing. Trouble-shooting. Specifications.
10-11 12-13 14-18 19-22 23-25 26-27

Warranty Service

This amplifier is covered by warranty, depending on the conditions in the country where it is sold. If the amplifier is returned for service, please include the original dated receipt with the product.
Approval of electromagnetic compatability according to the EEC Directive 95/54/EC for DLS A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7 & A8.

Approval No: 10R-020962

Technical Assistance
For technical assistance ask the shop where the product was sold, or the distributor in your country. You can always phone the DLS Helpdesk in Sweden + 60 or send an e-mail to info@dls.se. Information can also be found on our WEB-site www.dls.se

ULTIMATE A-series

Congratulations, you have just purchased the finest mobile audio amplifier that todays technology can offer. DLS offers a series of high quality car audio products for real music lovers, and we are sure that you will enjoy a high class car sound for many years.

CAUTION!

Some of our amplifiers are capable of producing a sound pressure level that can cause permanent damage to your hearing system. High sound pressure levels combined with long time listening can give permanent damage to your hearing system. Choose a listening level that is comfortable for your ears. To establish a safe level: Start your volume control at a low setting. Slowly increase the volume until you can hear the music comfortly and clearly, without any distortion. Sudden sound shocks are dangerous. The following noises can be dangerous with constant exposure: 90 dB Subway, motorcycle, lawn mover 4 hours max 100 dB Chain saw 2 hours max 120 dB Rock band live concert 30 minutes max 140 dB Gunshot blast, jet plane 0 minutes

Installation

Before you begin to install
Before you begin you need to read the manual, to have some tools, cables and other material available. There is one such list of material on the following page.

Disconnect Battery

Before starting the installation, always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

Fuse 150 A

To remote on head unit
Battery 12 volt Fan12 V Power capacitor
These models have double DC inputs. The terminals are internally connected so its enough to connect just one of them. If you want to reduce the voltage drop to the amplifier, use both inputs. The extra DC input can also be used for the connection of a Power Capacitor or an extra battery. See the example above. These amplifiers requires a powerful fuse holder like the FH2B with an ANL 150 Amp fuse (when using 2AWG / 33 mm2 power cable).

Fan 12 V

Use only ATC blade type fuses. Make sure to replace with the same value. The value is printed above the fuse holders. DLS A4 has no internal fuses, use an external fuse instead.
ULTIMATE A-series Phase control on A5, A6 and A7

Input and controls

Input Wiring
Inputs are low level from the RCA output of the head unit. Low level input Use a pair of shielded stereo audio cables with RCA type jack. Most trunk-mount amplifiers need a 20 feet RCA cable ( appr meters). Most under the seat installations require 12 feet ( meters) RCA cables. Avoid placing the RCA cable close to speaker cables, power cables and remote control cable. DLS A1, A2 and A3 uses a single pair of RCA inputs while three and four channels amplifiers like A4, A5 and A8 uses dual pairs of RCA inputs A7 is a multi channel amplifier with three separate inputs. On next page you can see how to connect the RCA inputs of A7. Use high quality interconnects like the DLS SL5 PRO or SL5 Ultimate that has an effective shielding. When you run the signal cables remember to keep them well spaced from the wiring loom and the power feed to the amplifier to avoid picking up interference. Lay the power cables and signal cables separated on each side of the car. Any extra cable must be laid in zig-zag style and definitely not coiled.
The phase control on can be set continuously from 0 - 180 degrees. This is very useful when you want to adjust the bass sound for best front stage image. Start at 0 and turn the control slowly clockwise until you experience that the bass sound is coming from the front. If you dont get the result you want, also try to phase reverse the subwoofer connections and make a new adjustment. On A5 you find this control on the amplifiers left side.

DLS A4

DLS A4 is equipped with adjustable HP-and LP- filters on all channels. These can also be switched in/ out. The filters are equipped with a multiplication button for improved flexibility.
The filter setup are as follows:
Front: Lowpass (LP) 50 - 125 Hz Highpass (HP) 20 - 200 Hz alt 60 - 600 Hz (x 3 button) Rear: Lowpass (LP) 45 - 200 Hz alt. 90 - 400 Hz (x 2 button) Highpass (HP) 20 - 200 Hz The x2 and x3 buttons are used if you run a 2-way system with active crossover between mid-bass and tweeter.

DLS A5

Front channels: DLS A5 has an internal adjustable HP-filter that can be switched in/out. It can be set from 50 up to 150 Hz. Sub / mono channel: The mono channel filters are for use only with one or more subwoofers There is a LP-filter adjustable from 40 up to 90 Hz, and a subsonic filter at 25 Hz that can be switched in-out.

DLS A6

DLS A6 is a mono amplifier for use only as a subwoofer amplifier. It has a fixed 25 Hz subsonic filter that can be switched in/out. It also has a LP-filter adjustable from 50 - 125 Hz. This filter can not be disconnected.
Crossovers on each model DLS A1
DLS A1 has an internal adjustable HP-filter that can be switched in/out. It can be set from 20 up to 200 Hz. It also has an internal fixed LP-filter that can be set to either 70 or 90 Hz. The filter switch is available through a hole in the bottom plate.

DLS A7

This is a five channel amplifier with a lot of filter possibilities described in detail on page 8.

DLS A8

DLS A8 amplifiers include HP-filter and LP-filters on both front and rear channels. The HP-filter has two fixed frequencies, 65 or 85 Hz. The HP-filter can be disconnected in position OFF. The LP-filter is variable between 50 and 125 Hz.

DLS A2 och A3

DLS A2 and A3 has an adjustable LP-filter that can be switched in/out. It can be set from 50 - 125 Hz. There is also an adjustable HP-filter that can be switched in/out.The filter is adjustable from 20 - 200 Hz. PHASE SHIFT BUTTON ON A3: DLS A3 has a button marked PHASE. Use this button to phase reverse the speaker output. The button is only working when the lowpass filter is in use. Only use this button when you want to phase reverse a subwoofer to get the best sound.

FRONT SPEAKERS +LEFT- +RIGHT-
HP-filter LEVEL 3,5V 7V 0,2V 400 Hz
0,kHz OUT x10 change by bottom switch
Crossovers / filters on A7
DLS A7 amplifier include highpass filter (HP), lowpass filter (LP). On the two front channels the HPfilter can be switched between two different frequency ranges, likewise for the LP-filter on the rear channels.
Lowpass filter on rear channels

LP-filter

Highpass filter on front channels
The slope of the HP-filter is 12 dB / octave. The filter can be switched off if you want to run the amplifier in full range mode. Or use as a HP-filter for tweeters if you want to run a 2-way speaker system with active crossover. The HP x20 switch under the bottom plate changes the filters frequency range from the normal 80-400 Hz to Hz. A normal setting is 3-5 kHz. If you run a 3-way system on the amplifier you can use this filter for active crossover between midbass and midrange speakers, a typical setting is 400 Hz.
Input Front Rear x1 HP x 20 x1
0,OUT kHz x10 change by bottom switch

HP-filter

IN 240
OUT Hz x20 change by bottom switch
The LP-filter on the rear channels is used when you run a 2-way or 3-way speaker system with active crossover. It will allow low frequencies only and blocks higher frequencies. The filter can be switched in and out. The normal frequency range is from 0,3 to 4 kHz. With the LP x10 switch, under the bottom plate, you can change the filter frequency range from the normal to 3 - 40 kHz. A normal x-over setting is 3-4 kHz when used for active crossover in a 2-way system. If you run a 3-way system on the amplifier you can use this filter for active crossover between midbass and midrange speakers. A typical setting is 400 Hz.
LP x10 swith under the bottom plate

LP x 10

Highpass filter on rear channels
This HP-filter is normally used as a high pass filter blocking very low frequencies from reaching the speakers. It is mostly used at say 80 Hz to protect small speakers ( like 6 inch and smaller ) from deep bass. The slope of the HP-filter is 12 dB / octave. The filter can be switched off if you want to run the amplifier in full range mode.

Filters on sub channel

Lowpass
The sub channel is made only for subwoofer use and has a variable LP-filter that can be switched onoff. A normal setting for the LP-filter is 60-80 Hz.
Professional Tip: SPEAKER POLARITY CHECK.
All speakers in a car audio system should be connected in phase (the same polarity). All speaker cones must move in the same direction. Out of phase speakers will cause a lack of bass, and a poor stereo soundstage. Checking polarity: Hold the - connection of the speaker wire to the terminal of a 1,5 Volt flashlight battery. Tap the + wire on to the + terminal of the battery, and observe the movement of the cone. The cone should move outwards when the wire touches the battery, and inwards when the battery is removed. If it is the other way around, the speaker has been connected backwards and it must be removed and connected correctly. If your system also has a subwoofer connected through a passive 6 or 12 dB crossover, try to connect this with various polarity and judge what sounds best. The phase shift in passive crossovers sometimes makes it necessary to change polarity.

NOISE PROBLEMS

WHINING NOISE VARYING WITH ENGINE REVOLUTIONS: Do this: 1. Rewire the power supply (12 V) to source unit direct from battery. 2. Rewire ground wire from source unit to clean position on chassis. 3. Check all power connections to ensure that they are clean and tight. 4. Check quality of system ground connection. 5. Install a Power Cap capacitor. This can be helpful against most noise problems. CONSTANT WHINING NOISE: Do this: 1. Ensure that all equipment has a common ground point. 2. Check quality of earth strap connection from battery negative terminal to chassis. 3. Disconnect signal cables from amplifier to see if noise disappears. If so the leads are picking up noise. Test this by laying a new cable over the seats and reconnecting to the amplifier. If the noise does not return, reroute original cable away from source of interference. If noise remains regardless of cable position, try to use so called Quasi-balanced signal cables. DLS PRO and Ultimate-cables are Quasi-balanced.

Battery 1,5 Volt

NOTE! Tweeters can not be tested this way, double check the connections instead.
Installing in trunk When installing the amplifier in the trunk, run the power wires along the same path as the other vehicle wiring. Many cars have insulated channels for wiring. you will have to remove the door sill trim and the carpet.
Securing wires Use wire ties to bundle together when possible. (But never bundle speaker wires or signal cables together with power wires).
Crimp connections Purchase crimp connectors and crimping tool. Connectors are color coded. 1. Strip 1/4 inch (6 mm) of insulation from the wire. 2. Insert into connector 3. Crimp tightly
Speaker and power wires Do not run speaker and power wires next to each other. Power wires can generate a siren sound in the speakers. Run speaker and power wires on opposite sides of the car. 9

ULTIMATE A1-A2

Wiring examples DLS A1 & A2
On the following pages you find some examples of how to connect the amplifier for different use. The drawings show normal level and filter settings. The main difference between DLS A1 and A2 is the lowpass filter and the power output. A1 has a 3-way filter selector under the bottom plate and A2 has a continously variable filter on the front.
DLS A1 and A2 can be connected in different ways:
1. As a stereo amplifier connected with a speaker system of coaxial, 2-way or 3-way type. Two speaker systems can be connected in parallel, one front and one rear system. 2. As a subwoofer amplifier with max two 4 ohm subwoofers in mono bridge mode. The built-in lowpass crossover is used. (Connect to L+ and R-). DLS A1 has a lowpass filter with two fixed frequencies that can be set under the bottom plate. DLS A2 has an inbuilt adjustable lowpass filter that should be set to approx. 70-80 Hz.

1. One speaker pair connected in stereo
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way or 3-way systems in this example. The speaker impedance must be 4 ohm. Highpass filter not in use. Lowpass filter not in use.

DLS A1

HP-filter IN LEVEL 3,5V HP-filter 100 IN

DLS A2

LP-filter 100 IN LEVEL 3,5V

20 200

7,0V 0,2V OUT

SIGNAL INPUT

LEFT RIGHT

HP-filter IN 200 OUT

3,5V 7,0V 0,2V

SPEAKERS

+LEFT- +RIGHTPOWER

POWER IN FUSE

Both buttons in out position

Button out Pre out

FM1 107,3
Fuse 60 A + Battery 12 volt

Remote

For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection we refer to page 4. Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker terminals. Use a 2,5 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A1 Use a 4 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4
If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HP-filter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests.

DLS A1 DLS A2

LEVEL IN 3,5V HP-filter 100 IN LP-filter 100 IN LEVEL 3,5V
2. Two stereo speaker pairs connected in parallel
Highpass filter not in use. Lowpass filter not in use. If you have problems with the mid bass driver SIGNAL INPUT HP-filter reaching LEFT RIGHT 100 the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) Button out at high Pre out volumes, use the HPfilter to avoid this FM1 107,3 with a setting at Hz or higher. Remote Make your own tests.

HP-filter 100

IN 3,5V 7,0V OUT 0,2V
Both buttons in OUTposition

Fuse 60 A

+ Battery 12 volt
3. Connection in mono with one subwoofer in bridge mode.

Button IN

HP-filter 100 IN LEVEL 3,5V HP-filter 100 IN
HP-filter IN 200 OUT 3,5V 7,0V 0,2V PROTECT
Button IN Filter setting A1: HP-filter: 25-30 Hz LP-filter: fixed 70 or 90 Hz A2: HP-filter: 25-30 Hz LP-filter. 70-80 Hz

Pre out

Subwoofer 4 ohm You can use all DLS 4 ohm subwoofers in this example.
For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection we refer to page 4. 11

ULTIMATE A3

WIRING EXAMPLES DLS A3
On the following pages you find some examples of how to connect the amplifier for different use. The drawings show normal level and filter settings. The two channels are divided into two separate mono amplifiers. There are separate DC inputs for each channel but they are internally connected with each other. You can feed the amplifier with double DC feeds if you want a minimum of voltage drop, or you can also use the extra DC-input for the connection of a Power capacitor as in the example.

DLS A3 can be connected in different ways:
1. As a stereo amplifier connected with a speaker system of coaxial, 2-way or 3-way type. Two speaker systems can be connected in parallel, one front and one rear system. 2. As a subwoofer amplifier with max two 4 ohm subwoofers in mono bridge mode. The built-in lowpass filter is used. (Connect to L+ and R-).
1. In stereo with one front and one rear speaker system.

LEFT FUSES 30 A x 2

DC-FEED DLS A3

RIGHT FUSES 30 A x 2

Fan12 V
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way or 3-way speaker systems in this example. Speaker impedance must be 4 ohm. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4.
Fuse 150 A To remote on stereo / CD Power capacitor

Battery 12 volt

Highpass filter not in use. Lowpass filter not in use. If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HPfilter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests. + +

HP-filter 200

HP-filter IN

LP-filter 125

Phase +180

LP-filter IN

LEVEL 3,5V 7,0V 0,2V

+LEFT+RIGHT-

2. One or more subwoofers in mono bridge mode

DC - FEED DLS A3

For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4. Adjust the HP- and LP-filter settings as in the drawing
HP-filter setting: 30 Hz LP-filter setting: 60-80 Hz Button in Button in

LEVEL 3,5V

HP-filter HP-filter LP-filter PHASE LP-filter 100 IN 90

7,0V 0,2V 0 OUT

With the PHASE button you can phase shift the phase on the speaker output terminals.
Subwoofer 4 ohm DLS A3 is 1 ohm stable. This means that you can connect two 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. Two 4 ohm subwoofers connected in parallel results in a 2 ohm load which the amplifier sees as a 1 ohm load. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel. 13
Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker terminals. Use a 2,5 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A1 Use a 4 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4
You can use all DLS subwoofers in this example. Speaker impedance must be 4 ohm.
POWER RIGHT FUSES 30 A x 2

ULTIMATE A4

WIRING EXAMPLES A4
1. Connecting a front system in stereo and a subwoofer in mono bridge mode.
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way, 3-way systems and subwoofers in this example. All speakers must be 4 ohm. If the head unit has only one pre out a Y-cable must be used. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4. HP-filter setting: 80-100 Hz LP-filter not in use Button in Button out

DC - FEED DLS A4

LEFT FUSES 25 A x 2
POWER RIGHT FUSES 25 A x 2
If you use both DC-inputs for the DC feed, connect a Fuse block with two 70 Amp fuses, one for each input.

FRONT INPUTS

HP-filter 3X

FRONT SPEAKERS

Pre out front

Button out + +

HP-filter setting: 30 Hz LP-filter setting: 70-80 Hz Button in Button in
Pre out rear Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker terminals. Use a 2,5 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A1 Use a 4 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4

REAR SPEAKERS

LP-filter 2X

LP-filter 200

REAR INPUTS
Button out DLS A4 is 1 ohm stable. This means that you can connect two 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. Two 4 ohm subwoofers connected in parallel results in a 2 ohm load which the amplifier sees as a 1 ohm load. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel.

Subwoofer 4 ohm 14

2. A front system connected in stereo bridge mode on all four channels.
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way or 3-way speaker systems in this example. Speaker impedance must be 4 ohm. If the head unit has only one pre out a Y-cable must be used. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4.

DC-FEED DLS A4

HP-filter not in use. LP-filter not in use. Button out Button out
If you use both DC-inputs for the DC feed, connect a Fuse block with two 70 Amp fuses, one for each input. If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HPfilter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests.

Button out + -

HP-filter not in use. LP-filter not in use. Button out Button out Pre out rear
Button out + Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker terminals. Use a 2,5 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A1 Use a 4 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4 15
ULTIMATE A4 DC-FEED DLS A4 3. Connecting a 3-way system using active crossover between woofer and midrange.
You can use all 3-way speaker systems in this example. You can also use any 2-way system in combination with a separate mid bass speaker. Speaker impedance must be 4 ohm. If the head unit has only one pre out a Y-cable must be used. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4.

HP-filter setting: 400 Hz LP-filter not in use Button in Button out

Button in + -

Passive crossover boxes for tweeters and midrange Midrange drivers
HP-filter not in use LP-filter setting: 400 Hz Button in Button out

Tweeters

Button in + +
If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HPfilter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests.

Bass/midbass drivers

Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker terminals. Use a 2,5 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A1 Use a 4 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4 16

1 5432154321

ULTIMATE A5

WIRING EXAMPLES A5

Connection of a front system in stereo and a subwoofer in mono.
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way, 3-way systems and subwoofers in this example. All speakers must be 2-4 ohm. If the head unit has only one pre out, a Y-cable must be used. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4.

DC - FEED DLS A5

FUSES 30 A x 3

BATT+ REM GND

Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker and fan terminals. Use a 2,5 mm hexagon key to the remote terminal. Use a 3 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals. DLS A5 front channels are 2 ohm stable. DLS A5 mono channel is 1,33 ohm stable. This means that you can connect three 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel.

Fuse 100 A

Battery 12 volt To remote on stereo / CD Fan 12 V
HP-filter setting: 80 Hz Button in
Subsonic-filter setting: IN (fixed 25 Hz) LP-filter setting: 70-80 Hz Button in

LEVEL IN 3,5V 7V 0,2V

HP-filter 150 Hz
FRONT SUB LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT

Subsonic IN

Filter
Low-Pass 90 LEVEL 3,5 V 7,0 V 0,2 V

SUBWOOFER

+ SPEAKER -

Pre out sub or rear

Subwoofer 4 ohm PHASE SHIFT CONTROL
The Phase shift control is variable from 0 to +180 degrees. With this control you can fine tune your subwoofers so they play in phase with the rest of your system.
Left side of A5 (part of)

Bass level / Phase

REMOTE BASS LEVEL & PHASE SHIFT

IN Phase 0 +180 OUT

Remote Bass Level & Phase control

Phase Level

A remote bass level & phase shift control is included. This allows you to adjust the bass level and phase shift from the front seat of your car. Connect it to the socket marked Remote Bass Level. When using a remote level control you must activate it by pushing the switch on the right side of the socket, to IN-position.

ULTIMATE A6

WIRING EXAMPLES A6
Connection of two 4 ohm subwoofers
You can use all DLS subwoofers in this example. All speakers must be 2-4 ohm. If you have subwoofer with dual voice coils, connect one voice coil to each output terminal. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection we refer to page 2. PHASE SHIFT CONTROL The Phase shift control is variable from 0 to +180 degrees. With this control you can fine tune your subwoofers so they play in phase with the rest of your system. This feature is extremely useful when fine tuning the different speakers and amplifiers of a SPL competition vehicle. REMOTE BASS LEVEL & PHASE SHIFT A remote bass level & phase shift control is included. This allows you to adjust the bass level and phase shift from the front seat of your car. Connect it to the socket marked Remote Bass Level. When using a remote level control you must activate it by pushing the switch on the left side of the socket, to IN-position.

DC - FEED DLS A6

FUSES 35 A x 2

POWER FUSES 35 A x 2

Subsonicfilter setting: IN (fixed 25 Hz) LP-filter setting: 70-80 Hz Button in
Remote Bass Level IN Phase ++180 LP-filter 125 LEVEL 3,5V 7,0V 0,2V

sonic IN

Remote Bass Level & Phase control DLS A6 has a built-in fan for cooling. The fan is mounted in the bottom plate of the amplifier. To get the best performance and cooling, mount the amplifier on spacings. Doing so the fan can get fresh air for best possible cooling. The amplifier becomes very hot, especially when loaded down to 1 ohm. When using 1,33 and 1 ohm loads we recommend the use of external cooling fans as well.

Subwoofer 4 ohm

DLS A6 is 1 ohm stable. This means that you can connect four 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel, one coil to each amplifier output. NOTE! The speaker output terminals are internally connected in parallel. This is a mono amplifier so it is not able to connect the outputs in bridge mode. The double terminals are only for easier connection of more than one subwoofer.

WIRING EXAMPLES A7

Example 1: Speaker wiring with front speakers, rear speakers and one or more subwoofers
HP-filter: 80 Hz Button in HP-filter: 80 Hz LP-filter not in use. Button in Button out
HP-filter LEVEL 3,5V 7V 0,2V Hz 240

Pre out rear

DC - FEED DLS A7 For DC-feed, see page 4
If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HPfilter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests. LP-filter: 70- 80 Hz

A7 IN BRIDGE MODE

You can connect the stereo channels in bridge mode if you prefer. Connect between L+ and R- on the respective channel pair.

LEFT SUB RIGHT

FILTER

Low-pass 90

SUB-WOOFER + SPEAKERS -

O 180 Degree

50 125
Remote Bass Level & Phase control Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange Rear: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange LP-filter OUT Sub: LP-filter 70-80 Hz Switch settings in this example HP: x1 LP: x1
Input to front, rear & sub

Subwoofer 2 - 4 ohm

Input to rear & sub
Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 6 for detailed instructions

Sub input common

Example 2: Speaker wiring with active crossover to a front speaker system and one or more subwoofers
HP-filter setting: 4 kHz Button in HP-filter setting: 80 Hz LP-filter setting: 4 kHz. Button in Button in
Tweeters with active high-pass x-over setting at 4 kHz
Midbass/midrange speakers with active low-pass x-over setting at 4 kHz LP-filter: 70- 80 Hz
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 4 kHz with x20switch in x20 position Rear: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange LP-filter IN, setting 4 kHz with x10 switch in position x1 Sub: LP-filter 70-80 Hz
Switch settings in this example HP: x20 LP: x1
Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 6 for detailed instructions 20
Example 3: System with front speaker system, rear fill speakers and one or more subwoofers
Highpass filter 80 Hz Button in Highpass filter 125 Hz Lowpass filter setting 6 kHz Button in Button in

Filter box

Pre out front + -
Rear fill speakers 125 Hz to 6 kHz
+ Lowpass filter 70- 80 Hz

Two-way front system

Remote Bass Level & Phase control Switch settings in this example HP: x1 LP: x10
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange Rear: HP-filter 125 Hz LP-filter IN. Setting 6 kHz with x10 switch in position x10 Sub: LP-filter 70-80 Hz
Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 5 for detailed instructions
Example 4: Speaker wiring with acive/passive crossover to a 3-way front speaker system and one or more subwoofers
HP-filter setting: 400 Hz Button in
HP-filter setting: 80 Hz LP-filter setting: 400 Hz. Button in Button In

Pre out front + + -

Midbass with active lowpass xover setting at 400 Hz.
Midrange and tweeters with active highpass x-over setting at 400 Hz. Passive x-over between midbrange and tweeters

LP-filter: 70- 80 Hz

Remote Bass Level & Phase control Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 400 Hz with x20switch in x1 position Rear: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange LP-filter IN, setting 400 Hz with x10 switch in position x1 Sub: LP-filter 70-80 Hz Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 5 for detailed instructions 22 Switch settings in this example HP: x1 LP: x1

Input Front Rear x1 HP x 20 x1 LP x 10

ULTIMATE A8

WIRING EXAMPLES A8
LP-filter not in use Button Out
Example 1: Speaker wiring with front and rear speakers
LP-filter not in use. Button out

FRONT INPUTS REAR

5V 0,5V OUT

5V 0,5V

HP-filter change by bottom switch
Use one RCA cable with Y-split, or two separate RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier.
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 85 Hz or OFF LP-filter OUT Rear: HP-filter 85 Hz or OFF LP-filter OUT
Example 2: Speaker wiring with a front speaker system and one or more subwoofers
LP-filter not in use Button Out LP-filter setting: 70 - 80 Hz. Button in
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 85 Hz or OFF LP-filter OUT Rear: HP-filter 85 Hz or OFF LP-filter IN 23
Example 2: Speaker wiring with subwoofers in bridge mode to both front and rear channels
LP-filter setting: 70 - 80 Hz. Button in LP-filter setting: 70 - 80 Hz. Button in
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter OFF LP-filter IN Setting 70-80 Hz Rear: HP-filter OFF LP-filter IN Setting 70-80 Hz

Testing

Before you finish the installation, you should do the following tests to make sure the wiring is correct and everything is operating properly.

Troubleshooting

If problems occour during the installation, or later, this guide might help you to find out whatss wrong. THE AMPLIFIER IS DEAD: 1. Check power lead, ground and remote connections at the amplifier using a multi meter. 2. Check the battery terminal connections. 3. Check the power lead fuse or circuit breaker. If fuse damage continues, inspect the power lead for short circuits. 4. Check the amplifier protection fuses. Are these broken change to new ones with the same value. If short circuiting continues, contact your local DLS dealer. A fault may exist in the amplifier. 5. To start the amplifier requires a remote voltage of 9-15 volt. Check the voltage with a multimeter. AMPLIFIER PROTECTION FUSE BLOWS AT LOW VOLUME : 1. One or more speaker cables are shorted. Make an insulation test with a multi meter. The cables must not have a connection to earth. THE AMPLIFIER TURNS OFF AFTER 10 - 30 MINUTES. The amplifier is overheating due to inadequate ventilation. Check mounting position is free from obstruction. Do this: 1. Move the amplifier to a place with better ventilation. 2. Install one or two fans to cool down the heatsink. 3. Overheating can also be caused by an impedance load below the level permitted. NO OUTPUT FROM ONE OR MORE SPEAKERS: Check the following: 1. Balance control position. 2. Fader control position. 3. Speaker cable connections to both amplifier and drivers. 4. Signal lead plugs and cables. 5. Change left and right signal lead plugs in the amplifier to see if the problem moves to a different speaker, the lead has a fault. If the problem remains, the speaker or amplifier are at fault.

6 mm2 (9 AWG) :25 A 16 mm2 (5AWG) :60 A 33 mm2 (2AWG) :150 A
10 mm2 (7AWG) :40 A 21 mm2 (4AWG) :100 A 42 mm2 (1AWG) :200 A
Tools and material needed
Tools: Flat and Phillips screwdrivers Wire cutter Wire stripper Electric drill with drills Crimping tool Digital multimeter or test lamp Wire brush, scraper or a piece of an abrasive sheet to remove paint for a good ground connection Grease to protect the ground connection from oxidation Material: Speaker wire: minimum 12 AWG = 4 mm2 for subwoofers AWG = 1,5-2,5 mm2 for other speakers Sheet metal screws for mounting the amplifier to the amplifier board and the amplifier board to the car + some extra for fuse holder, amplifier ground etc. Electrical insulation tape inch thick plywood or particle board for the amplifier to be mounted upon. Amplifier installation kit: If available,buy an amplifier installation kit. It contains normally all you need. This is what you have to buy if you buy the items separately 20- 25 feet = 6- 7.5 meter power cable, preferably AWG 5 = 16 mm2 or heavier. See the table on previous page to find out what cable size you need. 1 pc of fuseholder to install close to the car battery + fuse 80 Ampere, or other value depending on what cable and amplifier you use. See the table on page 2. 20 feet of AWG 15 = 1,5 mm2 wire for remote turn on / off cable from head unit. RCA-cable for input from head unit. - 20 feet or 5 meter for trunk installations You can connect all inputs together and use only one RCA-cable, or use separate wires to each input. Two min. 5 gauge ring crimp terminals one for connection to the battery plus and one for the amplifier ground connection. Wire ties Insulating grommet or insulating tube

Routing wires

Stereo head unit
Gauge (ga) is an American measure for cable size, also called AWG (American Wire Gauge).

CONVERSION GAUGE - mm2

0 AWG = 50 mmAWG = 42 mmAWG = 33 mmAWG = 27 mmAWG = 21 mmAWG = 16 mmAWG = 13 mmAWG = 10 mmAWG = 8 mmAWG = 6,8 mmAWG = 5,3 mmAWG = 4,2 mmAWG = 3 mmAWG = 2,7 mmAWG = 2 mmAWG = 1,65 mmAWG = 1,3 mm2 3
ULTIMATE A-series Remote terminal ( REM )

Wiring

Power, remote and fan terminals
Power terminal for A2, A5, A7
Connect the fuse holder as close to the vehicle battery + as possible, using AWG 5 = 16 mm2 or heavier cable (see table on page 2). Use ring crimp terminal cable to connect to battery +. Apply silicon grease to the fuse to prevent corrosion. POWER IN

BATT+ REMOTE GND

Battery 12V DLS FH1B or FH2B fuse holder
For RCA cable signal input: Connect the radio power antenna lead = remote turn on/off from the head unit to the amplifier remote connection. This turns on the amplifier whenever the car stereo is turned on. You can either use the built in remote cable in the RCA cable itself, or use a separate cable. Sometimes a small disturbance may enter the amplifier coming from the remote voltage, through the built in remote wire and into the RCA cable. Thus we recommend to use a separate remote wire and run the RCA lead separate from remote wire, power cables and speaker cables. You can insert the cable directly into the amplifier terminal. If there is no remote voltage available from the stereo, you must connect to the ignition key, through the radio, or any accessories fuse.

POWER IN

Connect the battery cable to the +12 Volt terminal on the amplifier. Model A2, A5 and A7 accepts AWG 4 = 21 mm2 direct into the terminal. Be sure to use a rubber grommet or a plastic insulating tube where the cable passes the firewall or other places where it can easily be jammed. Use wire ties to secure to existing cables in the engine compartment.

Ground Terminal ( GND )

Connect to a good chassis ground. The ground connection should be clean, unpainted metal to provide a good electrical connection. Use a wire brush, a scraper or a piece of an abrasive sheet to clean the metal. Use a lock washer or two to secure contact. Protect with silicon grease or by paint applied afterwards.
Power terminal for A3, A4 & A6

BAT+ REM GND

POWER IN /POWER CAP

GND FAN OUT POS+

PROTECT

Fan terminal

DLS A3, A4, A5, A6 and A7 has a fan output terminal. On A3, A4 and A6 the terminal is combined with the extra DC-terminal. The output is electronically controlled and starts if the amplifiers is overheated. The terminal is marked "FAN. Use a 12 volt DC fan.The speed of the fan increases when the temperature rises. Direct the fan towards the amplifier cooling ribs. Full speed is obtained at 70 degrees C. NOTE! Maximum load on the FAN terminal is 0,5 Amp.

Fuse 150 A

To remote on head unit
Battery 12 volt Fan12 V Power capacitor
These models have double DC inputs. The terminals are internally connected so its enough to connect just one of them. If you want to reduce the voltage drop to the amplifier, use both inputs. The extra DC input can also be used for the connection of a Power Capacitor or an extra battery. See the example above. These amplifiers requires a powerful fuse holder like the FH2B with an ANL 150 Amp fuse (when using 2AWG / 33 mm2 power cable).

Fan 12 V

Use only ATC blade type fuses. Make sure to replace with the same value. The value is printed above the fuse holders. DLS A4 has no internal fuses, use an external fuse instead.
ULTIMATE A-series Phase control on A5, A6 and A7

Input and controls

Input Wiring
Inputs are low level from the RCA output of the head unit. Low level input Use a pair of shielded stereo audio cables with RCA type jack. Most trunk-mount amplifiers need a 20 feet RCA cable ( appr meters). Most under the seat installations require 12 feet ( meters) RCA cables. Avoid placing the RCA cable close to speaker cables, power cables and remote control cable. DLS A2 and A3 uses a single pair of RCA inputs while three and four channels amplifiers like A4, A5 and A8 uses dual pairs of RCA inputs A7 is a multi channel amplifier with three separate inputs. On next page you can see how to connect the RCA inputs of A7. Use high quality interconnects like the DLS SL5 PRO or SL5 Ultimate that has an effective shielding. When you run the signal cables remember to keep them well spaced from the wiring loom and the power feed to the amplifier to avoid picking up interference. Lay the power cables and signal cables separated on each side of the car. Any extra cable must be laid in zig-zag style and definitely not coiled.
The phase control on can be set continuously from 0 - 180 degrees. This is very useful when you want to adjust the bass sound for best front stage image. Start at 0 and turn the control slowly clockwise until you experience that the bass sound is coming from the front. If you dont get the result you want, also try to phase reverse the subwoofer connections and make a new adjustment. On A5 you find this control on the amplifiers left side.

DEGREE

Remote bass level and phase shift control on A5, A6 and A7
A remote level and phase shift control is included with A5, A6 and A7 amplifiers. You can adjust the bass level and phase from the front seat of your vehicle. Connect it to the socket marked Remote Bass Level. When using a remote level control you must activate it by pushing the switch besides the socket, to IN-position.

Remote Bass Level IN

Input Level control
Remote Bass Level & phase shift control

7V 0,5V

Power / Protect light

Power (Blue)

The input level control, 7V 0,2 V, matches the output of your head unit to the input of the amplifier. After installation is complete, make sure the input of the amplifier is turned down all the way ( counterclockwise at 7V ). Play a tape or CD, make sure all bass or treble settings or equalizer are flat, and turn the volume of the radio up until you just start to hear distortion. Turn the volume control down just a bit. On the amplifier increase the input level control ( clockwise or to the right ) until you just start to hear distortion, then back the level control just a bit. Now your radio and amplifier levels are matched. On three/ four channel amplifiers like the A4, A5 or A7 its necessary to adjust the levels indiviually to achieve a good sound balance between the different speakers, different speakers have different sensitivity. When using two of the channels for subwoofer operation, start the level adjustment on these channels. After having adjusted the bass level for good performance, adjust the level to the front system for a good sound balance.
The power light (blue) is turned on when the amplifier is turned on. The protect light ( red ) is turned on when the amplifier shuts down from overheating, or a short circuit (speaker failure)

Protect (Red)

The amplifiers have an internal high current protection circuit shutting down the amplifier if the current draw is too high. It is indicated with a LED marked PROTECT. The protection circuits will reset by turning the head unit off and on again. The amplifiers also have a thermal protection that turns off the amplifier if getting to hot. It will resume operation after cooling down. If necessary install an external cooling fan. There are one or two fuses on the front. Disconnect the main fuse before replacing any of these. Always replace with the same type and value.

ULTIMATE A7

Input and controls A7
FRONT SPEAKERS +LEFT- +RIGHTHP-filter LEVEL 3,5V 7V 0,2V Hz 240 IN

SIGNAL INPUTS

FRONT REAR

LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT

HP-filter 400 Hz

LP-filter 2

LEVEL 3,5V 7V 0,2V
REAR SPEAKERS +LEFT- +RIGHT-
OUT x20 change by bottom switch
0,kHz OUT OUT x10 change by bottom switch
DLS A7 has a more sofisticated input configuration and can be connected in different ways which are described here. Inputs are low level from the RCA output of the car stereo head unit. Low level input Use a pair of shielded stereo audio cables with RCA type jack. Most trunk-mount amplifiers need a 20 feet RCA cable ( appr meters). Most under the seat installations require 12 feet ( meters) RCA cables. Avoid placing the RCA cable close to speaker cables, power cables and remote control cable. The amplifier has separate input sockets for front, rear and sub channel. There are two switches located under the amplifier bottom plate. With these switches you can choose different ways to connect the RCA input sockets internally. You can use either one, two or three separate RCA cables for the feed. Use any of the following: 1. One RCA cable feed to all amplifier inputs. If you want to use only one RCA cable to feed all inputs set the switches like in the example below: A singhle RCA feeds all channels 2. Two RCA cables. One to front input and the other to rear and sub inputs. If you want to use a separate RCA cable to the front channels and another RCA cable to rear and sub channels connect the cables and set the switches like in the example below: Separate input cables to front and rear. Then internally connected to the sub channel.

Input Front Rear x1 HP x 20
Front nput to rear & sub

Amplifier front

Rear input to sub

Input Sub

Sub input separate

LP x1 x 10

Sub input from rear
3. Three RCA cables. One to front input, one to rear input, and the third to sub input. If you want to use separate RCA cables to all inputs, set the switches like in the example below:
Separate input cables to all channels.
Front input to rear & sub

Input Front Rear x1 HP

Crossovers / filters (general)
DLS A-series amplifiers include highpass filter (HP) and lowpass filters (LP). The HP-filters can be used in one of two ways. Either as a subsonic filter together with a subwoofer to remove the lowest frequencies which often causes a rumbling bass reproduction. A normal setting is 20 - 30 Hz. The HP-filter can also be used together with a front or rear stereo system to remove frequencies below the crossover setting. In a system with a separate subwoofer its normal to limit the bass reproduction to the front system. A normal setting is between 80 - 100 Hz, but feel free to try other settings. If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil reches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HP-filter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz. A subsonic filter is actually a HP-filter. The LP-filters are normally used when you connect a subwoofer in bridge mode. The filter can be switched in and out. A normal setting is 60 - 80 Hz. The filter slope is 12 dB. Active crossover. A4 and A7 the LP and HP-filters have a frequency range making it possible to use them for active crossover to a 2-way speakersystem.

DLS A4

DLS A4 is equipped with adjustable HP-and LP- filters on all channels. These can also be switched in/ out. The filters are equipped with a multiplication button for improved flexibility.
The filter setup are as follows:
Front: Lowpass (LP) 50 - 125 Hz Highpass (HP) 20 - 200 Hz alt 60 - 600 Hz (x 3 button) Rear: Lowpass (LP) 45 - 200 Hz alt. 90 - 400 Hz (x 2 button) Highpass (HP) 20 - 200 Hz The x2 and x3 buttons are used if you run a 2-way system with active crossover between mid-bass and tweeter.

DLS A5

Front channels: DLS A5 has an internal adjustable HP-filter that can be switched in/out. It can be set from 50 up to 150 Hz. Sub / mono channel: The mono channel filters are for use only with one or more subwoofers There is a LP-filter adjustable from 40 up to 90 Hz, and a subsonic filter at 25 Hz that can be switched in-out.

DLS A6

DLS A6 is a mono amplifier for use only as a subwoofer amplifier. It has a fixed 25 Hz subsonic filter that can be switched in/out. It also has a LP-filter adjustable from 50 - 125 Hz. This filter can not be disconnected.
Crossovers on each model DLS A2 och A3
DLS A2 and A3 has an adjustable LP-filter that can be switched in/out. It can be set from 50 - 125 Hz. There is also an adjustable HP-filter that can be switched in/out.The filter is adjustable from 20 - 200 Hz. PHASE SHIFT BUTTON ON A3: DLS A3 has a button marked PHASE. Use this button to phase reverse the speaker output. The button is only working when the lowpass filter is in use. Only use this button when you want to phase reverse a subwoofer to get the best sound.

DLS A7

This is a five channel amplifier with a lot of filter possibilities described in detail on page 8.
FRONT SPEAKERS +LEFT- +RIGHT-
HP-filter LEVEL 3,5V 7V 0,2V 400 Hz
0,kHz OUT x10 change by bottom switch
Crossovers / filters on A7
DLS A7 amplifier include highpass filter (HP), lowpass filter (LP). On the two front channels the HP-filter can be switched between two different frequency ranges, likewise for the LP-filter on the rear channels.
Lowpass filter on rear channels

LP-filter

Highpass filter on front channels
The slope of the HP-filter is 12 dB / octave. The filter can be switched off if you want to run the amplifier in full range mode. Or use as a HP-filter for tweeters if you want to run a 2-way speaker system with active crossover. The HP x20 switch under the bottom plate changes the filters frequency range from the normal 80-400 Hz to 1600 - 8000 Hz. A normal setting is 3-5 kHz. If you run a 3-way system on the amplifier you can use this filter for active crossover between midbass and midrange speakers, a typical setting is 400 Hz.
Input Front Rear x1 HP x 20 x1
0,OUT kHz x10 change by bottom switch

HP-filter

IN 240
OUT Hz x20 change by bottom switch
The LP-filter on the rear channels is used when you run a 2-way or 3-way speaker system with active crossover. It will allow low frequencies only and blocks higher frequencies. The filter can be switched in and out. The normal frequency range is from 0,3 to 4 kHz. With the LP x10 switch, under the bottom plate, you can change the filter frequency range from the normal to 3 - 40 kHz. A normal x-over setting is 3-4 kHz when used for active crossover in a 2-way system. If you run a 3-way system on the amplifier you can use this filter for active crossover between midbass and midrange speakers. A typical setting is 400 Hz.

LP x10 swith under the bottom plate

LP x 10

Highpass filter on rear channels
This HP-filter is normally used as a high pass filter blocking very low frequencies from reaching the speakers. It is mostly used at say 80 Hz to protect small speakers ( like 6 inch and smaller ) from deep bass. The slope of the HP-filter is 12 dB / octave. The filter can be switched off if you want to run the amplifier in full range mode.

Filters on sub channel

Lowpass
The sub channel is made only for subwoofer use and has a variable LP-filter. A normal setting for the LP-filter is 60-80 Hz.
Professional Tip: SPEAKER POLARITY CHECK.
All speakers in a car audio system should be connected in phase (the same polarity). All speaker cones must move in the same direction. Out of phase speakers will cause a lack of bass, and a poor stereo soundstage. Checking polarity: Hold the - connection of the speaker wire to the terminal of a 1,5 Volt flashlight battery. Tap the + wire on to the + terminal of the battery, and observe the movement of the cone. The cone should move outwards when the wire touches the battery, and inwards when the battery is removed. If it is the other way around, the speaker has been connected backwards and it must be removed and connected correctly. If your system also has a subwoofer connected through a passive 6 or 12 dB crossover, try to connect this with various polarity and judge what sounds best. The phase shift in passive crossovers sometimes makes it necessary to change polarity.

NOISE PROBLEMS

WHINING NOISE VARYING WITH ENGINE REVOLUTIONS: Do this: 1. Rewire the power supply (12 V) to source unit direct from battery. 2. Rewire ground wire from source unit to clean position on chassis. 3. Check all power connections to ensure that they are clean and tight. 4. Check quality of system ground connection. 5. Install a Power Cap capacitor. This can be helpful against most noise problems. CONSTANT WHINING NOISE: Do this: 1. Ensure that all equipment has a common ground point. 2. Check quality of earth strap connection from battery negative terminal to chassis. 3. Disconnect signal cables from amplifier to see if noise disappears. If so the leads are picking up noise. Test this by laying a new cable over the seats and reconnecting to the amplifier. If the noise does not return, reroute original cable away from source of interference. If noise remains regardless of cable position, try to use so called Quasi-balanced signal cables. DLS PRO and Ultimate-cables are Quasi-balanced.

Battery 1,5 Volt

NOTE! Tweeters can not be tested this way, double check the connections instead.

Installing in trunk When installing the amplifier in the trunk, run the power wires along the same path as the other vehicle wiring. Many cars have insulated channels for wiring. you will have to remove the door sill trim and the carpet.
Securing wires Use wire ties to bundle together when possible. (But never bundle speaker wires or signal cables together with power wires).
Crimp connections Purchase crimp connectors and crimping tool. Connectors are color coded. 1. Strip 1/4 inch (6 mm) of insulation from the wire. 2. Insert into connector 3. Crimp tightly
Speaker and power wires Do not run speaker and power wires next to each other. Power wires can generate a siren sound in the speakers. Run speaker and power wires on opposite sides of the car. 9

ULTIMATE A2

Wiring examples DLS A2
On the following pages you find some examples of how to connect the amplifier for different use. The drawings show normal level and filter settings.
DLS A2 can be connected in different ways:
1. As a stereo amplifier connected with a speaker system of coaxial, 2-way or 3-way type. Two speaker systems can be connected in parallel, one front and one rear system. 2. As a subwoofer amplifier with max two 4 ohm subwoofers in mono bridge mode. The built-in lowpass crossover is used. (Connect to L+ and R-). DLS A2 has an inbuilt adjustable lowpass filter that should be set to approx. 60-80 Hz.
1. One speaker pair connected in stereo

DLS A2

LP-filter IN 90 IN LEVEL 3,5V
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way or 3-way systems in this example. The speaker impedance must be 4 ohm.

50 OUT

7,0V 0,2V OUT

SIGNAL INPUT

LEFT RIGHT
HP-filter IN 200 OUT LP-filter IN 125 OUT

3,5V 7,0V 0,2V

SPEAKERS

+LEFT- +RIGHTPOWER

POWER IN FUSE
Both buttons in out position
Highpass filter not in use. Lowpass filter not in use.

+ Pre out 107,3

Fuse 60 A + Battery 12 volt

Remote

For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection we refer to page 4. Use a 2 mm hexagon key to speaker terminals. Use a 4 mm hexagon key to DC input terminals on
If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HP-filter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests.
ULTIMATE A2 2. Two stereo speaker pairs connected in parallel
Both buttons in OUTposition

Pre out

+ + Remote

Fuse 60 A

+ Battery 12 volt

7,0V 0,2V 0 OUT

With the PHASE button you can phase shift the phase on the speaker output terminals.
Subwoofer 4 ohm DLS A3 is 1 ohm stable. This means that you can connect two 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. Two 4 ohm subwoofers connected in parallel results in a 2 ohm load which the amplifier sees as a 1 ohm load. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel. 13
Use a 2 mm hex key to speaker terminals. Use a 4 mm hex key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4
You can use all DLS subwoofers in this example. Speaker impedance must be 4 ohm.
POWER RIGHT FUSES 30 A x 2

ULTIMATE A4

WIRING EXAMPLES A4
1. Connecting a front system in stereo and a subwoofer in mono bridge mode.
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way, 3-way systems and subwoofers in this example. All speakers must be 4 ohm. If the head unit has only one pre out a Y-cable must be used. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4. HP-filter setting: 80-100 Hz LP-filter not in use Button in Button out

DC - FEED DLS A4

LEFT FUSES 25 A x 2
POWER RIGHT FUSES 25 A x 2
If you use both DC-inputs for the DC feed, connect a Fuse block with two 70 Amp fuses, one for each input.

FRONT INPUTS

HP-filter 3X

FRONT SPEAKERS

Pre out front

Button out + +

107,3 Pre out rear Use a 2 mm hex key to speaker terminals. Use a 4 mm hex key to DC input terminals on A2, A3, A4

REAR SPEAKERS

LP-filter 2X

LP-filter 200

REAR INPUTS
Button out DLS A4 is 1 ohm stable. This means that you can connect two 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. Two 4 ohm subwoofers connected in parallel results in a 2 ohm load which the amplifier sees as a 1 ohm load. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel.

Subwoofer 4 ohm 14

2. A front system connected in stereo bridge mode on all four channels.
You can use all DLS coaxial, 2-way or 3-way speaker systems in this example. Speaker impedance must be 4 ohm. If the head unit has only one pre out a Y-cable must be used. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection see page 4.

Subsonic-filter setting: IN (fixed 25 Hz) LP-filter setting: 60-80 Hz Button in

LEVEL IN 3,5V 7V 0,2V

HP-filter 150 Hz
FRONT SUB LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT

Subsonic IN

Filter
Low-Pass 90 LEVEL 3,5 V 7,0 V 0,2 V

SUBWOOFER

+ SPEAKER -

Pre out sub or rear

107,3 Subwoofer 4 ohm PHASE SHIFT CONTROL
The Phase shift control is variable from 0 to +180 degrees. With this control you can fine tune your subwoofers so they play in phase with the rest of your system.
Left side of A5 (part of)

Bass level / Phase

REMOTE BASS LEVEL & PHASE SHIFT

IN Phase 0 +180 OUT

Remote Bass Level & Phase control

Phase Level

A remote bass level & phase shift control is included. This allows you to adjust the bass level and phase shift from the front seat of your car. Connect it to the socket marked Remote Bass Level. When using a remote level control you must activate it by pushing the switch on the right side of the socket, to IN-position.

ULTIMATE A6

WIRING EXAMPLES A6
Connection of two 4 ohm subwoofers
You can use all DLS subwoofers in this example. All speakers must be 2-4 ohm. If you have subwoofer with dual voice coils, connect one voice coil to each output terminal. For power cable, speaker cable and fuse size selection we refer to page 2. PHASE SHIFT CONTROL The Phase shift control is variable from 0 to +180 degrees. With this control you can fine tune your subwoofers so they play in phase with the rest of your system. This feature is extremely useful when fine tuning the different speakers and amplifiers of a SPL competition vehicle. REMOTE BASS LEVEL & PHASE SHIFT A remote bass level & phase shift control is included. This allows you to adjust the bass level and phase shift from the front seat of your car. Connect it to the socket marked Remote Bass Level. When using a remote level control you must activate it by pushing the switch on the left side of the socket, to IN-position.

DC - FEED DLS A6

FUSES 35 A x 2

POWER FUSES 35 A x 2

Subsonicfilter setting: IN (fixed 25 Hz) LP-filter setting: 60-80 Hz Button in
Remote Bass Level IN Phase ++180 LP-filter 125 LEVEL 3,5V 7,0V 0,2V

sonic IN

Remote Bass Level & Phase control DLS A6 has a built-in fan for cooling. The fan is mounted in the bottom plate of the amplifier. To get the best performance and cooling, mount the amplifier on spacings. Doing so the fan can get fresh air for best possible cooling. The amplifier becomes very hot, especially when loaded down to 1 ohm. When using 1,33 and 1 ohm loads we recommend the use of external cooling fans as well.

Subwoofer 4 ohm

DLS A6 is 1 ohm stable. This means that you can connect four 4 ohm subwoofers in parallel without damaging the amplifier. If you have a 4 ohm sub with dual voice coils you can connect the coils in parallel, one coil to each amplifier output. NOTE! The speaker output terminals are internally connected in parallel. This is a mono amplifier so it is not able to connect the outputs in bridge mode. The double terminals are only for easier connection of more than one subwoofer.

WIRING EXAMPLES A7

Example 1: Speaker wiring with front speakers, rear speakers and one or more subwoofers
HP-filter: 80 Hz Button in HP-filter: 80 Hz LP-filter not in use. Button in Button out
HP-filter LEVEL 3,5V 7V 0,2V Hz 240

Pre out rear

DC - FEED DLS A7 For DC-feed, see page 4
If you have problems with the mid bass driver reaching the bottom (the voice coil touches the bottom pole plate) at high volumes, use the HPfilter to avoid this with a setting at 50 - 80 Hz or higher. Make your own tests. LP-filter: 60- 80 Hz

A7 IN BRIDGE MODE

You can connect the stereo channels in bridge mode if you prefer. Connect between L+ and R- on the respective channel pair.

LEFT SUB RIGHT

FILTER

Low-pass 90

SUB-WOOFER + SPEAKERS -

O 180 Degree

50 125
Remote Bass Level & Phase control Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange Rear: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange LP-filter OUT Sub: LP-filter 60-80 Hz Switch settings in this example HP: x1 LP: x1
Input to front, rear & sub

Subwoofer 2 - 4 ohm

Input to rear & sub
Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 6 for detailed instructions

Sub input common

Example 2: Speaker wiring with active crossover to a front speaker system and one or more subwoofers
HP-filter setting: 4 kHz Button in HP-filter setting: 80 Hz LP-filter setting: 4 kHz. Button in Button in
Tweeters with active high-pass x-over setting at 4 kHz
Midbass/midrange speakers with active low-pass x-over setting at 4 kHz LP-filter: 60- 80 Hz
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 4 kHz with x20switch in x20 position Rear: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange LP-filter IN, setting 4 kHz with x10 switch in position x1 Sub: LP-filter 60-80 Hz
Switch settings in this example HP: x20 LP: x1
Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 6 for detailed instructions 20

Example 3: System with front speaker system, rear fill speakers and one or more subwoofers
Highpass filter 80 Hz Button in Highpass filter 125 Hz Lowpass filter setting 6 kHz Button in Button in

Filter box

Pre out front + FM1
Rear fill speakers 125 Hz to 6 kHz
+ Lowpass filter 60- 80 Hz

Two-way front system

Remote Bass Level & Phase control Switch settings in this example HP: x1 LP: x10
Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange Rear: HP-filter 125 Hz LP-filter IN. Setting 6 kHz with x10 switch in position x10 Sub: LP-filter 60-80 Hz
Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 5 for detailed instructions
Example 4: Speaker wiring with acive/passive crossover to a 3-way front speaker system and one or more subwoofers
HP-filter setting: 400 Hz Button in
HP-filter setting: 80 Hz LP-filter setting: 400 Hz. Button in Button In

Pre out front + + FM1

Midbass with active lowpass xover setting at 400 Hz.
Midrange and tweeters with active highpass x-over setting at 400 Hz. Passive x-over between midbrange and tweeters

LP-filter: 70- 80 Hz

Remote Bass Level & Phase control Filter settings: Front: HP-filter 400 Hz with x20switch in x1 position Rear: HP-filter 80 Hz or fullrange LP-filter IN, setting 400 Hz with x10 switch in position x1 Sub: LP-filter 60-80 Hz Use one, two or three RCA-cables for signal from head unit to amplifier. See page 5 for detailed instructions 22 Switch settings in this example HP: x1 LP: x1
Input Front Rear x1 HP x 20 x1 LP x 10

Testing

Before you finish the installation, you should do the following tests to make sure the wiring is correct and everything is operating properly.

Troubleshooting

If problems occour during the installation, or later, this guide might help you to find out whatss wrong. THE AMPLIFIER IS DEAD: 1. Check power lead, ground and remote connections at the amplifier using a multi meter. 2. Check the battery terminal connections. 3. Check the power lead fuse or circuit breaker. If fuse damage continues, inspect the power lead for short circuits. 4. Check the amplifier protection fuses. Are these broken change to new ones with the same value. If short circuiting continues, contact your local DLS dealer. A fault may exist in the amplifier. 5. To start the amplifier requires a remote voltage of 9-15 volt. Check the voltage with a multimeter. AMPLIFIER PROTECTION FUSE BLOWS AT LOW VOLUME : 1. One or more speaker cables are shorted. Make an insulation test with a multi meter. The cables must not have a connection to earth. THE AMPLIFIER TURNS OFF AFTER 10 - 30 MINUTES. The amplifier is overheating due to inadequate ventilation. Check mounting position is free from obstruction. Do this: 1. Move the amplifier to a place with better ventilation. 2. Install one or two fans to cool down the heatsink. 3. Overheating can also be caused by an impedance load below the level permitted. NO OUTPUT FROM ONE OR MORE SPEAKERS: Check the following: 1. Balance control position. 2. Fader control position. 3. Speaker cable connections to both amplifier and drivers. 4. Signal lead plugs and cables. 5. Change left and right signal lead plugs in the amplifier to see if the problem moves to a different speaker, the lead has a fault. If the problem remains, the speaker or amplifier are at fault.

500 W 870 W 1200 W <0,1% >100 dB > kohm 0,2 - 7 volt 50 - 125 Hz / 12 dB 25 Hz / 18 dB 0-180 degree continious Included 4 x 35 A 21 mm2 (4AWG) 10 mm2 (7AWG) Current & thermal 0,5 A 140 A 410 x 73 x 240 16,15 x 2,87 x 9,45

SPECIFICATIONS A7

Model A7
RMS output per channel at 13,8 volts, 20 Hz - 20 kHz , < 0,1% distortion. Front and rear channels: Power output in 4 ohm Power output in 2 ohm Power output in bridge mode Subchannel: Power output in4 ohm Power output in 2 ohm Power output in 1 ohm S / N ratio, A-weighted Damping factor Input impedance Input sensitivity Fan output terminal Remote bass & phase control Fuses Max cable size, DC-terminal Max cable size, speaker terminal Protection Power consumption: Idle Maximum Dimensions (mm) Dimensions (inch) Weight
4 x 60 W 4 x 100 W 2 x 200 W 1 x 300 W 1 x 440 W 1 x 600 W >100 dB >200 >10k 0,3 - 7V Yes (max 500 mA) Yes 20A x 2, 35A xmm2 (4AWG) 10 mm2 (7AWG) Current & thermal
Filter configuration DLS A7
Channel 1&2: Highpass: 80 - 400 Hz or 1,6 - 8 kHz (x20 switch) Channel 3&4: Highpass: 80-400 Hz Lowpass: 0,3-4 kHz or 3 - 40 kHz (x10 switch) Subchannel: Lowpass: 50 - 125 Hz
1,1 A 120 A 605x240x73 23,82x 9,45x2,87 8,1 kg ( 17,86 lb)
We follow a policy of continuous advancement in development. For this reason all or part of specifications & designs may be changed without prior notice. 25
DLS Svenska AB P.O. Box 13029 S-40251 Gteborg, Sweden Tel: +840060 Fax: +844021 E-mail: info@dls.se www.dls.se