IPS 3700 - Receiver RCF - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Professional Audio Receiver / Amplifier
Brand	RCF
Model	IPS 3700
Power Output (per channel)	1850 W into 4 ohms, 1300 W into 8 ohms
Number of Channels	2
Frequency Response	20 Hz - 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
Input Impedance	20 kΩ (balanced), 10 kΩ (unbalanced)
Input Sensitivity	0.775 V (0 dBu)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	> 110 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion	< 0.05%
Cooling	Variable speed fan, front-to-rear airflow
Protection	Short circuit, thermal, over-current, DC offset
Dimensions (W x H x D)	483 x 88 x 420 mm (19" rack, 2U)
Weight	18 kg
Power Supply	230 V AC, 50-60 Hz
Power Consumption	2500 W (max)
Input Connections	2x XLR female, 2x 1/4" TRS balanced
Output Connections	2x Speakon NL4, binding posts
Main Functions	Dual channel amplification, bridge mode, parallel input mode, front panel gain controls, power LED, clip LED
Maintenance	Regular cleaning of air filters, check connections, avoid dust and moisture
Safety	Class I equipment, ground connection required, do not operate with damaged power cord
Spare Parts and Repairability	Contact RCF service center for genuine parts, user-replaceable air filters

Frequently Asked Questions - IPS 3700 RCF

How do I connect the IPS 3700 to my speakers?

Use the Speakon NL4 or binding post outputs. Ensure speakers have appropriate impedance (4 or 8 ohms). Set the amplifier to Stereo mode for two speakers, or Bridge mode for a single high-power speaker.

What is the power output in bridge mode?

In bridge mode, the IPS 3700 delivers approximately 3700 W into 8 ohms (bridged). Ensure your speaker can handle this power.

Can I use unbalanced cables with the balanced inputs?

Yes, you can use unbalanced TS cables (1/4") with the balanced TRS inputs. The amplifier will automatically accept unbalanced signals, but balanced connections are recommended for longer cable runs to reduce noise.

How do I set the gain levels?

Use the front panel gain knobs for each channel. Start with the knobs fully counterclockwise, then gradually increase while monitoring the Clip LEDs. Avoid clipping to prevent distortion and speaker damage.

What should I do if the amplifier goes into protection mode?

Check for short circuits on speaker cables, ensure proper ventilation, and reduce the input signal level. The amplifier will automatically reset after the fault is cleared. If it persists, contact RCF support.

Can I rack-mount the IPS 3700?

Yes, the IPS 3700 is designed for 19" rack mounting and occupies 2U of rack space. Use the included rack ears and support rails to secure it.

What type of power cord do I need?

The IPS 3700 uses a standard IEC C19 power cord (20A rating). Ensure the wall outlet can supply sufficient current (approx. 12A at 230V for full power).

How often should I clean the air filters?

Clean the foam air filters every 3 months or more frequently in dusty environments. Remove the front grille, wash filters with mild soap and water, let them dry completely before reinstalling.

Can I use this amplifier for subwoofers?

Yes, the IPS 3700 is suitable for subwoofers. In Parallel Input mode, you can drive a single subwoofer using both channels bridged. Ensure the subwoofer's impedance and power handling match the amplifier's output.

Where can I find the full user manual?

The full user manual is available for free download on notice-facile.com in PDF format. You can also request a translated version by selecting your language and providing your email.

USER MANUAL IPS 3700 RCF

USER MANUAL MANUALE D'USO

IPS 700 IPS 1700 IPS 2700 IPS 3700

• AMPLIFIERS
• AMPLIFICATORI

TABLE OF CONTENTS INDICE

ENGLISH

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 4

DESCRIPTION 6

UNPACKING AND INSTALLATION 6

FRONT PANEL 7

REAR PANEL 8

OPERATION MODES 9

SPEAKON CONNECTOR WIRING 11

COOLING REQUIREMENTS 11

SPECIFICATIONS 12

ITALIANO

AVVERTENZE PER LA SICUREZZA 14

DESCRIZIONE 16

Before connecting and using this product, please read this instruction manual carefully and keep it on hand for future reference.

The manual is to be considered an integral part of this product and must accompany it when it changes ownership as a reference for correct installation and use as well as for the safety precautions.

RCF S.p.A. will not assume any responsibility for the incorrect installation and / or use of this product.

WARNING: To prevent the risk of fire or electric shock, never expose this product to rain or humidity.

This device is intended for indoor use only.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. All the precautions, in particular the safety ones, must be read with special attention, as they provide important information.

2. POWER SUPPLY FROM MAINS

• The mains voltage is sufficiently high to involve a risk of electrocution: never install or connect this product when its power cord is plugged in.
• Before powering up, make sure that all the connections have been made correctly and the voltage of your mains corresponds to the voltage shown on the rating plate on the unit, if not, please contact your RCF dealer.
• The metallic parts of the unit are earthed by means of the power cord.
• An apparatus with CLASS I construction shall be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
• Protect the power cord from damage. Make sure it is positioned in a way that it cannot be stepped on or crushed by objects.
• To prevent the risk of electric shock, never open this product: there are no parts inside that the user needs to access.

• The mains plug is used as the disconnect device and it shall remain readily operable.

• Make sure that no objects or liquids can get into this product, as this may cause a short circuit.

This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquid (such as vases) and no naked sources (such as lighted candles) shall be placed on this apparatus.

1. Never attempt to carry out any operations, modifications or repairs that are not expressly described in this manual.

Contact your authorized service centre or qualified personnel should any of the following occur:

• The product does not function (or functions in an anomalous way).
• The power cord has been damaged.
• Objects or liquids have got into the product.

• The product has been subject to a heavy impact.

• If this product is not used for a long period, disconnect its power cord from mains.

• If this product begins emitting any strange odours or smoke, switch it off immediately and disconnect its power cord.

IMPORTANT

WARNING

1. The terminals marked with the symbol are HAZARDOUS LIVE and their connection is to be made by an INSTRUCTED PERSON or the use of ready-made cables is required.

2. Do not connect this product to any equipment or accessories not foreseen.

For suspended installation, only use the dedicated anchoring points and do not try to hang this product by using elements that are unsuitable or not specific for this purpose.

Also check the suitability of the support surface to which the product is anchored (wall, ceiling, structure, etc.), and the components used for attachment (screw anchors, screws, brackets not supplied by RCF etc.), which must guarantee the security of the system / installation over time, also considering, for example, the mechanical vibrations normally generated by transducers.

To prevent the risk of falling equipment, do not stack multiple units of this product unless this possibility is specified in this user manual.

1. RCF S.p.A. strongly recommends this product is only installed by professional qualified installers (or specialised firms) who can ensure correct installation and certify it according to the regulations in force.

The entire audio system must comply with the current standards and regulations regarding electrical systems.

1. Supports and trolleys

The equipment should be only used on trolleys or supports, where necessary, that are recommended by the manufacturer. The equipment / support / trolley assembly must be moved with extreme caution.

Sudden stops, excessive pushing force and uneven floors may cause the assembly to overturn.

1. Mechanical and electrical factors need to be considered when installing a professional audio system (in addition to those which are strictly acoustic, such as sound pressure, angles of coverage, frequency response, etc.).

2. Hearing loss

Exposure to high sound levels can cause permanent hearing loss. The acoustic pressure level that leads to hearing loss is different from person to person and depends on the duration of exposure. To prevent potentially dangerous exposure to high levels of acoustic pressure, anyone who is exposed to these levels should use adequate protection devices.

When a transducer capable of producing high sound levels is being used, it is therefore necessary to wear ear plugs or protective earphones.

See the technical specifications in loudspeaker instruction manuals to know their maximum sound pressure levels.

1. Do not obstruct the ventilation grilles of the unit. Situate this product far from any heat sources and always ensure adequate air circulation around the ventilation grilles.

2. Do not overload amplifiers. Check that amplifier outputs are not shorted.

3. Never force the control elements (keys, knobs, etc.).

4. Do not use solvents, alcohol, benzene or other volatile substances for cleaning the external parts of this product.

Use a dry cloth.

NOTES ABOUT AUDIO SIGNAL CABLES

To prevent the occurrence of noise on microphone / line signal cables, use screened cables only and avoid putting them close to:

• Equipment that produces high-intensity electromagnetic fields.
• Mains cables.
• Loudspeaker lines.

DESCRIPTION

IPS series includes four models of two-channel power amplifiers designed for professional use in touring racks and installed sound systems.

The four models only differ in their rated power:

• IPS 700 delivers up to 2 x 300 W into 4 Ω (bridged: 600 W into 8 Ω)
• IPS 1700 delivers up to 2 x 450 W into 4 Ω (bridged: 900 W into 8 Ω)
• IPS 2700 delivers up to 2 x 1100 W into 4 Ω (bridged: 2200 W into 8 Ω)
• IPS 3700 delivers up to 2 x 1500 W into 4 Ω (bridged: 3000 W into 8 Ω).

MAIN FEATURES:

• Fast response and low distortion
• Easy to configure in STEREO / PARALLEL (mono) / BRIDGE modes
• Extensive protective circuits ensure high reliability and operating safety
• Front panel SIGNAL / CLIP / FAULT LED indicators
• XLR input connectors
• SPEAKON output connectors
• Limiter on each channel.

UNPACKING AND INSTALLATION

Check the carton box and its contents to see if there is any sign of damage (should the amplifier be damaged, immediately inform your local distributor / dealer and the forwarder). It is always advisable to keep the packing materials, even if the amplifier has arrived in good condition.

Input and output cables are not included.

Each amplifier needs 2 units of a standard 19" rack cabinet.

Four holes for rack mounting are on the front panel ears.

Rear mounting ears give additional support.

The amplifier should not be installed in a place with:

• Too high temperature, dust or excessive humidity.
• Fog machine outputs oriented towards the amplifier.
• Exhaust air ventilators.
• Permanent vibrations.
• High-intensity electromagnetic fields (due to transformers, transmitters, etc.).

1 POWER switch

Push to turn on / off the amplifier.

Before switching the amplifier on, check all cables and turn fully counterclockwise both channel level controls 3.

2 POWER LED

When lit, the amplifier is switched on.

3 Control (one per channel) to adjust the output level of the respective amplifier channel.

Turn clockwise to increase the output level (0 dB = max. level), turn counterclockwise to decrease.

IF THE AMPLIFIER IS SET TO BRIDGE MODE, USE THE CHANNEL 1 CONTROL ONLY.

4 FAULT LED (one per channel)

When lit, it indicates the internal protection intervention (due to overload, short-circuit, thermal drift, fault) and the respective channel is muted.

As soon as the problem is solved, this LED will be dark.

When turning the amplifier on, this LED stays lit for three seconds.

5 CLIP LED (one per channel)

It blinks when the signal level reaches the clipping point, causing the limiter intervention of the respective channel.

If it stays lit continuously, the input signal level is excessive.

6 SIGNAL LED (one per channel)

When lit, it indicates the signal presence (above -40 dBu) at the respective input.

PIEDINATURA CONNETTORE XLR: 1 MASSA, 2 SEGNALE AUDIO (+), 3 SEGNALE AUDIO (-)

7 CH1 INPUT

Channel 1 balanced audio input (female XLR connector).

8 CH1 LINK

Channel 1 balanced parallel audio output (male XLR connector).

This output is linked in parallel with the channel 1 input and is useful to link another amplifier.

9 CH2 INPUT (STEREO MODE ONLY)

Channel 2 balanced audio input (female XLR connector).

10 CH2 LINK

Channel 2 balanced parallel audio output (male XLR connector).

This output is linked in parallel with the channel 2 input and is useful to link another amplifier.

11 MODE switch

Before turning the amplifier on, set the amplifier mode selector to the right position among BRIDGE, PARALLEL (mono) and STEREO.

See the 'Operation modes' manual section.

12 SENSITIVITY switch

Set the sensitivity switch to either 0.775 V or 1.4 V, which is input signal voltage required to get the maximum power output from the amplifier.

13 CH 1 OUTPUT

Channel 1 output to loudspeakers (SPEAKON connector).

If the amplifier is set to BRIDGE mode, only connect this output.

See both 'Operation modes' and 'SPEAKON connector wiring' manual sections.

CH 2 OUTPUT

Channel 2 output to loudspeakers (SPEAKON connector).

Do not use this output if the amplifier is set to BRIDGE mode.

See both 'Operation modes' and 'SPEAKON connector wiring' manual sections.

Power cord input.

Connect the power cord only to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.

RESET push-button

Push this button to (try to) reset the amplifier when is muted due to the thermal protection.

OPERATION MODES

STEREO MODE

Make sure the amplifier is switched off before setting the MODE switch 11 to STEREO In stereo mode, both channels operate independently and each front panel level control affects its respective output.

Minimum load impedance is 4 Ω per output.

Loudspeakers shall be connected to the outputs 1 (left channel) and 2 (right channel).

PARALLEL (MONO) MODE

Make sure the amplifier is switched off before setting the MODE switch 11 to PARALLEL.

In mono mode, both channels are linked to input 1 (therefore receiving the same signal). Each front panel level control affects its respective output, allowing you to set (if necessary) different levels.

Minimum load impedance is 4 Ω per output.

Loudspeakers shall be connected to the outputs 1 and 2.

NOTE THAT ONLY THE AMPLIFIER INPUTS ARE LINKED IN PARALLEL. THIS IS NOT AN OUTPUT PARALLEL MODE. NEVER CONNECT BOTH OUTPUTS IN PARALLEL!

BRIDGE MODE

Make sure the amplifier is switched off before setting the MODE switch 11 to BRIDGE. In 'bridge' (mono) mode, both amplifier channels work with the same input signal, but with inverse phases. The result is a doubling of the output voltage in order to get a double power (on a double impedance load).

Connect the CH 1 input and output only.

The output level is adjusted only by the channel 1 front panel control. Pay attention to the output SPEAKON wiring: pin 1+ positive, pin 2+ negative.

Minimum load impedance is: 8 Ω.

STEREO / PARALLEL (MONO) MODE

BRIDGE MODE

COOLING REQUIREMENTS

IPS amplifiers have a forced air cooling system to maintain a low operating temperature. Make sure there is enough space around the front of all amplifiers (to allow air to enter) and around to allow the heated air to exit. If amplifiers are rack-mounted, do not use doors or covers on the front and the rear of the rack cabinet(s).

		IPS 700 IPS 1700	IPS 2700 IPS 3700
RATED OUTPUT POWER	4 Ω - stereo (per channel)	300 W 450 W 1100	W 1500 W
	8 Ω - stereo (per channel)	150 W 330 W 700 W	W 1200 W
	8 Ω - bridged 600 W	900 W 2200 W 3000	W
Frequency response 20 Hz ÷ 20 kHz (+0 -1 dB, 1 W)
Total harmonic distortion < 0.5% (20 Hz ÷ 20 kHz)
Damping factor > 200 (8 Ω, 10 ÷ 400 Hz)
Slew rate > 10 V / μs
Signal / noise ratio > 100 dB
Crosstalk -75 dB (1 kHz)
Input sensitivity for full rated power (8 Ω)		0.775 V / 1.4 V
Input impedance 20 kΩ (balanced), 10 kΩ (unbalanced)
Protections		DC, internal fault, input overload, RF interference, unmatched load, output short-circuit, thermal drift, power supply over-current
Cooling		Internal heat sinks and forced ventilation (speed regulated fan)
Operating voltage		115 V / 230 V (according to the model), 50-60 Hz
Power consumption		350 W 350 W 700 W	W 800 W
Inrush current		8 A	11 A	15 A	22 A
Power cord input		IEC 10 A	IEC 10 A	IEC 16 A	IEC 16 A
Dimensions (19" rack, 2 U)	width	482 mm	482 mm 482 mm	482 mm
	height	88 mm	88 mm	88 mm	88 mm
	depth	255 mm	255 mm 255 mm	324 mm
Net weight		9.5 kg	11.2 kg	12.2 kg	16.6 kg

AVVERTENZE PER LA SICUREZZA

IMPORTANTE

Except possible errors and omissions.

RCF S.p.A. reserves the right to make modifications without prior notice.