R2501D - Car stereo Rockford Fosgate - Free user manual and instructions

Product type	Power amplifier for car radio
Brand	Rockford Fosgate
Model	R2501D
Power supply	12 V DC (B+ terminal)
Fuses	Easily accessible ATC fuses (always use the same type and rating)
Audio inputs	Nickel-plated RCA jacks (industry standard)
Speaker outputs	Nickel-plated screw terminals accepting ring or fork connectors
Protection	Yellow protection LED (short circuit or too low impedance); automatic shutdown
High-pass filter	Fixed 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave (HP switch)
Low-pass filter	Variable 50–250 Hz, 12 dB/octave (LP switch)
Punch Bass	Adjustable, centered at 45 Hz @ 12 dB/octave
Level remote control	Allows remote control of output level (Punch Level)
RCA amp extension	RCA connector to daisy chain a second amp without extra cables
Power terminals	B+ and GND (nickel-plated screws, accept ring or fork)
Remote terminal	REM (nickel-plated screw); requires +12 V DC to turn on/off
Minimum impedance	2 Ω stereo, 4 Ω bridged
Recommended wire gauge	4 AWG for power (B+) and ground (GND)
Battery fuse distance	Less than 45.7 cm from the positive terminal
Safety instructions	Exposure >100 dB can cause hearing loss; disconnect battery before installation

Frequently Asked Questions - R2501D Rockford Fosgate

How do I adjust the amplifier gain?

Turn the gain knob to minimum (counterclockwise). Increase the source volume until distortion, then decrease until it disappears. Then increase the amplifier gain to the desired volume. Avoid too high gain to limit noise and distortion.

What does the yellow protection LED mean?

The yellow LED indicates a short circuit or too low impedance at the speaker terminals. The amplifier shuts down automatically. Check connections and speaker impedance.

How do I daisy chain a second amplifier?

Use the RCA Amp Extension jack on the amplifier to send the signal to a second amp, avoiding the need for extra RCA cables from the source.

What type of wire should I use for power?

Use 4 AWG gauge wire for B+ and GND connections. The power wire must be protected by a fuse placed less than 45.7 cm from the battery.

How do I adjust the passive filter?

Set the switch to HP (high-pass 80 Hz), AP (all-pass), or LP (variable low-pass 50–250 Hz). In LP mode, turn the adjustment knob to select the cutoff frequency (e.g., 80 Hz as a starting point).

What to do if the amplifier does not turn on?

Check that the POWER LED (blue) is on. If not, check the inline fuse, the amplifier fuses, the ground connection (clean, bare metal), and voltage (9–16V) on B+ and REM terminals.

How to use the Punch Level remote control?

Plug the supplied remote into the corresponding jack. The gain is then linked to the remote, allowing you to control the output level from the dashboard.

Can I connect 1 ohm speakers?

No, the recommended minimum impedance is 2Ω stereo and 4Ω bridged. A lower load may damage the amplifier.

Where to mount the amplifier for optimal cooling?

Avoid the engine compartment. In the trunk, vertical or inverted mounting is fine, but the floor offers better cooling. Under a seat, provide at least 25.4 mm clearance around the heatsink.

How to avoid engine noise in the speakers?

Route signal cables (RCA) away from power wires. Check grounds (clean and paint-free). Optionally add a second ground wire between the battery and chassis. Test alternator and battery load.

USER MANUAL R2501D Rockford Fosgate

Installation assistance available at: RFTECH www.rockfordfosgate.com/rftech

PRIME™

CLASS ab 4CH AMPLIFIERS

R250-4

CERTIFIED QUALITY Total RMS Power Birth Date:______________ Serial Number:______________ Date of Purchase:______________

Dear Customer,

Congratulations on your purchase of the world's finest brand of car audio amplifiers. At Rockford Fosgate we are fanatics about musical reproduction at its best, and we are pleased you chose our product. Through years of engineering expertise, hand craftsmanship and critical testing procedures, we have created a wide range of products that reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.

For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford Fosgate product installed by an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer, as we provide specialized training through Rockford Technical Training Institute (RTTI). Please read your warranty and retain your receipt and original carton for possible future use.

Great product and competent installations are only a piece of the puzzle when it comes to your system. Make sure that your installer is using 100% authentic installation accessories from Rockford Fosgate in your installation. Rockford Fosgate has everything from RCA cables and speaker wire to power wire and battery connectors. Insist on it! After all, your new system deserves nothing but the best.

To add the finishing touch to your new Rockford Fosgate image order your Rockford accessories, which include everything from T-shirts to jackets.

Visit our web site for the latest information on all Rockford products; www.rockfordfosgate.com

or, in the U.S. call 1-800-669-9899 or FAX [phone]. For all other countries, call +001-480-967-3565 or FAX [phone].

Table of Content

2 Introduction

3 Specifications

4-5 Design Features

6-9 Installation

Installation Considerations

Mounting Locations

Battery and Charging

Wiring the System

10 Operation

Adjusting Gain / Crossover

Punch Bass / Remote Punch Level Control

11 Troubleshooting

12-16 Additional Languages

French

Spanish

German

Italian

20 Limited Warranty Information

If, after reading your manual, you still have questions regarding this product, we recommend that you see your Rockford Fosgate dealer. If you need further assistance, you can call us direct at 1-800-669-9899. Be sure to have your serial number, model number and date of purchase available when you call.

PRACTICE SAFE SOUND

Continuous exposure to sound pressure levels over 100dB may cause permanent hearing loss. High powered auto sound systems may produce sound pressure levels well over 130dB. Use common sense and practice safe sound.

PRATIQUEZ UNE ÉCOUTE SANS RISQUES

This symbol with "WARNING" is intended to alert the user to the presence of important instructions. Failure to heed the instructions will result in severe injury or death.

WARNING

This symbol with "CAUTION" is intended to alert the user to the presence of important instructions. Failure to heed the instructions can result in injury or unit damage.

CAUTION

• To prevent injury and damage to the unit, please read and follow the instructions in this manual. We want you to enjoy this system, not get a headache.
• If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself, have it installed by a qualified Rockford Fosgate technician.
• Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.

Model

R250-4

Rated Power

40x4 @ 4 ohms

*Continuous Power Rating (RMS)

65x4 @ 2 ohms

Measured @14.4V

125x2 @ 4ohms(bridged)

Crossover Slope 12dB/Oct

Crossover Frequency HP Fixed 80Hz

LP Variable 50Hz - 250Hz

Punch Bass 0/6/12dB @ 45Hz

Operating Voltage 9 - 16V DC

Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz ± 1dB

Battery Fuse Rating (not supplied) 40A

THD+N @ Rated Power <1.0 @ 4 ohms

Input Sensitivity 150mV - 8V

Input Impedance 20k

S/N Ratio CEA 2006 >70

S/N Ratio @ Rated Power >90

Channel Separation >50

Common Mode Rejection Ratio >55

Damping Factor >200

Dimensions (LxWxH) 11.6" x 7.7" x 2.4"

(29.4cm × 19.6cm × 6.1cm)

RCA Input Jacks

The industry standard RCA jacks provide an easy connection for signal level input. They are nickel-plated to resist the signal degradation caused by corrosion. The Pass-Thru provides a convenient source for daisy-chaining an additional amplifier without running an extra set of RCA cables from the front of the vehicle to the rear amplifier location.

Gain Control The input gain control is preset to match the output of most source units. PUNCH BASS 0dB +6dB +12dB LP - AP - HP-80Hz 100175 75225 50 * 250 5 * 7 3 * -9 1 * 11 FRONT FREQ. Hz LP (Low Pass Only) FRONT GAIN POWER INFL Power LED Power LED illuminates blue when the unit is turned on. LEFT ● FRONT RIGHT ●

B+REMGND FUSE 20A 20

Power/REM Terminals

The power and ground are nickel-plated clamp wire connectors and will accommodate 4 AWG #8 (up to 1/2") spade or ring style connectors. The nickel-plated clamp wire connector and will accommodate 8 AWG #8 (up to 3/8") spade or ring style connectors.(This terminal is used to remotely turn-on and turn-off the amplifier when +12V DC is applied.)

Crossover Switch

Selectable switch for 80Hz High-Pass (HP), All Pass (AP), or Low-Pass (LP) operation.

Variable Crossover Is a built-in 12dB/octave Butterworth filter with a crossover point variable from 50Hz to 250Hz. PUNCH BASS 0dB +6dB +12dB HP-80Hz - AP - LP 100 75 225 REAR GAIN REAR FREQ. Hz LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT Protect LED Protect LED illuminates red if a short circuit or to low of an impedance is detected at the speaker connections. The amplifier will automatically shut down if this occurs. Punch Bass This is an adjustable Bass level control centered at UT REAR LEFT RIGHT

FRONT REAR + - + RIGHTLEFT BRIDGED 4Ω Minimum SPEAKERS

Speaker Terminals

The heavy duty, nickel-plated clamp wire connectors (+ and -) will accommodate 8 AWG #8 (up to 3/8") spade or ring style connectors.

Fuses

These ATC fuses are easily accessible in case of failure. Always replace fuses with same type and rating. See Specifications for fuse ratings.

illus.-1.1

Contents

• R250-4 - Prime 4 Channel Amplifier
- Mounting Hardware
• Installation & Operation Manual

Installation Considerations

The following is a list of tools needed for installation:

• Fuse-holder and fuse. (See specifications for fuse rating)
• Hand held drill w/assorted bits
• Volt/Ohm Meter
• Assorted connectors
• Wire strippers
• Adequate Length—Red PowerWire
• Wire crimpers
• Adequate Length—Remote Turn-on Wire
• Wire cutters
• Adequate Length—Black GroundingWire

• 2 Phillips screwdriver

- Battery post wrench

This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for installing your new amplifier. Pre-planning your system layout and best wiring routes will save installation time. When deciding on the layout of your new system, be sure that each component will be easily accessible for making adjustments.

CAUTION

If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself, have it installed by a qualified technician.

CAUTION

Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.

Before beginning any installation, follow these simple rules:

1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before attempting to install the unit.
2. For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to beginning the installation.
3. For easier assembly, we suggest you run all wires prior to mounting your unit in place.
4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any high current wires.
5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to minimize signal or power loss.
6. Think before you drill! Be careful not to cut or drill into gas tanks, fuel lines, brake or hydraulic lines, vacuum lines or electrical wiring when

working on any vehicle.

1. Never run wires underneath the vehicle. Running the wires inside the vehicle provides the best protection.
2. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or plastic grommets to protect any wires routed through metal, especially the firewall.
3. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage with proper fusing. Install the appropriate fuse holder and fuse on the +12V power wire within 18" (45.7 cm) of the battery terminal.
4. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle, scrape all paint from the metal to ensure a good, clean ground connection. Grounding connections should be as short as possible and always be connected to metal that is welded to the main body, or chassis, of the vehicle. Seatbelt bolts should never be used for connecting to ground.

Mounting Locations

Engine Compartment

Never mount this unit in the engine compartment. Mounting the unit in the engine compartment will void your warranty.

Trunk Mounting

Mounting the amplifier vertically or inverted will provide adequate cooling of the amplifier. Mounting the amplifier on the floor of the trunk will provide the best cooling of the amplifier.

Passenger Compartment Mounting

Mounting the amplifier in the passenger compartment will work as long as you provide a sufficient amount of air for the amplifier to cool itself. If you are going to mount the amplifier under the seat of the vehicle, you must have at least 1" (2.54cm) of air gap around the amplifier's heatsink.

Mounting the amplifier with less than 1" (2.54cm) of air gap around the amplifier's heatsink in the passenger compartment will not provide proper cooling and will severely affect the performance of the amplifier and is strongly not recommended.

Battery and Charging

Amplifiers will put an increased load on the vehicle's battery and charging system. We recommend checking your alternator and battery condition to ensure that the electrical system has enough capacity to handle the increased load of your stereo system. Stock electrical systems which are in good condition should be able to handle the extra load of any Prime Series amplifier without problems, although battery and alternator life can be reduced slightly. To maximize the performance of your amplifier, we suggest the use of a heavy duty battery and an energy storage capacitor.

Wiring the System

CAUTION

If you do not feel comfortable with wiring your new unit, please see your local Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer for installation.

CAUTION

Before installation, disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit, fire and/or possible injury.

CAUTION

Avoid running power wires near the low level input cables, antenna, power leads, sensitive equipment or harnesses. The power wires carry substantial current and could induce noise into the audio system.

1. Plan the wire routing. Keep RCA cables close together but isolated from the amplifier's power cables and any high power auto accessories, especially electric motors. This is done to prevent coupling the noise from radiated electrical fields into the audio signal. When feeding the wires through the firewall or any metal barrier, protect them with plastic or rubber grommets to prevent short circuits. Leave the wires long at this point to adjust for a precise fit at a later time.
2. Prepare the RED wire (power cable) for attachment to the amplifier by stripping 3/8" of insulation from the end of the wire. Crimp the bared wire into a fork or ring style connector and attach to the B+ terminal. Tighten the screw to secure the cable in place.

NOTE: The B+ cable MUST be fused 18" or less from the vehicle's battery. Install the fuseholder under the hood and ensure connections are water tight.

1. Trim the RED wire (power cable) within 18" of the battery and splice in a inline fuse holder (not supplied). See Specifications for the rating of the fuse to be used. DO NOT install the fuse at this time.
2. Strip 1/2" from the battery end of the power cable and crimp an appropriate size ring terminal to the cable. Use the ring terminal to connect to the battery positive terminal.
3. Prepare the BLACK wire (Ground cable) for attachment to the amplifier by stripping 3/8" of insulation from the end of the wire. Crimp the bared wire into a fork or ring style connector and attach to the GROUND terminal. Tighten the screw to secure the cable in place. Prepare the chassis ground by scraping any paint from the metal surface and thoroughly clean the area of all dirt and grease. Strip the other end of the wire and attach a ring connector. Fasten the cable to the chassis using a non-anodized screw and a star washer.

NOTE: Keep the length of the BLACK wire (Ground) as short as possible. Always less than 30".

1. Prepare the Remote turn-on wire for attachment to the amplifier by stripping 3/8" of insulation from the end of the wire. Crimp the bared wire into a fork or ring style connector and attach to the REMOTE terminal. Tighten the screw to secure the wire in place. Connect the other end of the Remote wire to a switched 12 volt positive source. The switched voltage is usually taken from the source unit's remote amp on lead. If the source unit does not have this output available, the recommended solution is to wire a mechanical switch in line with a 12 volt source to activate the amplifier.

2. Securely mount the amplifier to the vehicle or amp rack. Be careful not to mount the amplifier on cardboard or plastic panels. Doing so may enable the screws to pull out from the panel due to road vibration or sudden vehicle stops.

3. Connect from source signal by plugging the RCA cables into the input jacks at the amplifier.

CAUTION

Always ensure power is off or disconnected at the amplifier before connecting RCA cables. Failure to do so may cause damage to the amplifier and/or connected components.

1. Connect the speakers. Strip the speaker wires 3/8", crimp the bared wire into a fork or ring style connectors and attach to the speaker terminals. Tighten the screw to secure into place. Be sure to maintain proper speaker polarity. DO NOT chassis ground any of the speaker leads as unstable operation may result.
2. Perform a final check of the completed system wiring to ensure that all connections are accurate. Check all power and ground connections for frayed wires and loose connections which could cause problems. Install inline fuse near battery connection.

NOTE: Follow the diagrams for proper signal polarity.

CAUTION

This amplifier is not recommended for impedance loads below 2-Ohms stereo and 4-Ohms bridged.

4-Channel Stereo

Source Unit Switched 12V to REM Less than 18" Fuse + POS - NEG *Keep grounds as short as possible Amplifier PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B LP - AP - LP-Bing T1 100 570 ST 100 320 FRONT FREQ. R4 LP (Low Pass Only) INPUT HP-Bing - AP - LP T 100 570 220 REAR GAIN T1 100 570 220 REAR FREQ. R4 LP (Low Pass On) PROTECT GND REM B+ FUSE + LEFT - + RIGHT - 20A 20A SPEAKERS Connect to chassis ground of vehicle *Keep grounds as short as possible 2Ω min. 2Ω min. 2Ω min. 2Ω min.

3-Channel (2ch Stereo & 1ch Mono \*bridged)

Source Unit Switched 12V to REM Less than 18" Fuse + POS - NEG *Keep grounds as short as possible Amplifier PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B LP - AP - LP-Bing T1 195 575 T2 320 ST 190 FRONT FREQ. N LP (Low Pass Only) FRONT GAIN LEFT + RIGHT + FRONT + REAR + LEFT + RIGHT + PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 195 575 T2 320 ST 190 FRONT FREQ. N LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 195 575 T2 320 ST 190 FRONT FREQ. N LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 195 575 T2 320 ST 190 FRONT Freq. N LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 195 575 T2 320 ST 190 FRONT Freq. N LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 195 575 T2 340 ST 190 FRONT Freq. N LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 195 575 T2 340 ST 190 FRONT Freq. N LP (Low Pass Only) PROTECT PUNCH BASS USB +60B +120B T1 20A 20A GND REM B+ FUSE + LEFT - + FRONT REAR 4Ω min. Connect to chassis ground of vehicle *Keep grounds as short as possible 2Ω min. 2Ω min.

Illus.-2.2

Adjusting Gain

1. Turn amplifier gains to minimum (counter-clockwise).
2. Turn the source unit volume up to 7/8 maximum (or when distortion is just inaudible).
3. Slowly increase amplifier gain control until adequate volume is achieved.

NOTE: Best signal to noise and dynamic range are realized with gain set to minimum. For a more in depth setting procedure, contact Rockford Technical Support.

CAUTION

Avoid setting amplifier gain high as noise and distortion will greatly increase.

Adjusting Crossover Frequency

Placing the crossover switch in the HP position sets the amplifier to the 80hz High Pass mode, enabling frequencies above the cut-off point to pass.

Placing the crossover switch in the AP position sets the amplifier to the All Pass mode, preventing any crossover adjustment, allowing all frequencies to pass.

Placing the crossover switch in the LP position sets the amplifier to the Low Pass mode, enabling frequencies below the cut-off point to pass, adjustable between 50-250Hz. Turn the crossover adjustment knob all the way down. With the system playing, turn the crossover adjustment knob up slowly until the desired crossover point is achieved. A good place to start is at about 80Hz.

Punch Bass

This works along with the crossover switch on the amplifier. When set to Low-Pass (LP) operation, this is a variable Bass Boost. Set this to your personal preference while listening to the system.

CAUTION

Over excursion and subsequent damage may occur at high levels of boost.

Remote Punch Level Control

When connected, the "Gain Control" is linked and allows you to remotely control the output level of the amplifier from the dash or center console.

Troubleshooting

NOTE: If you are having problems after installation follow the Troubleshooting procedures below.

Step 1. Check Amplifier for proper connections. Verify that POWER light is on. If POWER light is on skip to Step 3, if not continue.

1. Check in-line fuse on battery positive cable. Replace if necessary.
2. Check fuse(s) on amplifier. Replace if necessary.
3. Verify that Ground connection is connected to clean metal on the vehicle's chassis. Repair/replace if necessary.
4. Verify there is 9 to 14.4 Volts present at the positive battery and remote turn-on cable. Verify quality connections for both cables at amplifier, stereo, and battery/fuseholder. Repair/replace if necessary.

Step 2. Protect light is on.

1. If the Protect light is on, this is a sign of a possible short in the speaker connections. Check for proper speaker connections and use a volt/ohm meter to check for possible shorts in the speaker wiring. Too low of a speaker impedance may also cause Protect to light.

Step 3. Check Amplifier for audio output.

1. Verify good RCA input connections at stereo and amplifier. Check entire length of cables for kinks, splices, etc. Test RCA inputs for AC volts with stereo on. Repair/replace if necessary.
2. Disconnect RCA input from amplifier. Connect RCA input from test stereo directly to amplifier input.

Step 4. Check Amplifier if you experience Turn-on Pop.

1. Disconnect input signal to amplifier and turn amplifier on and off.
2. If the noise is eliminated, connect the REMOTE lead of amplifier to source unit with a delay turn-on module.

OR

1. Use a different 12 Volt source for REMOTE lead of amplifier.

Step 5. Check Amplifier if you experience excess Engine Noise.

1. Route all signal carrying wires (RCA, Speaker cables) away from power and ground wires.
   OR
2. Bypass any and all electrical components between the stereo and the amplifier(s). Connect stereo directly to input of amplifier. If noise goes away the unit being bypassed is the cause of the noise.
   OR
3. Remove existing ground wires for all electrical components. Reground wires to different locations. Verify that grounding location is clean, shiny metal free of paint, rust etc.
   OR
4. Add secondary ground cable from negative battery terminal to the chassis metal or engine block of vehicle.
   OR
5. Have alternator and battery load tested by your mechanic. Verify good working order of vehicle electrical system including distributor, spark plugs, spark plug wires, voltage regulator etc.

Particularités Techniques (illus.-1.1)

Rockford Corporation offers a limited warranty on Rockford Fosgate products on the following terms: Length of Warranty

Speakers, Signal Processors, PRIME and PUNCH Amplifiers – 1 Year

POWER Amplifiers – 2 Years

Any Factory Refurbished Product - 90 days (receipt required)

What is Covered

This warranty applies only to Rockford Fosgate products sold to consumers by Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealers in the United States of America or its possessions. Product purchased by consumers from an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer in another country are covered only by that country's Distributor and not by Rockford Corporation.

Who is Covered

This warranty covers only the original purchaser of Rockford product purchased from an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer in the United States. In order to receive service, the purchaser must provide Rockford with a copy of the receipt stating the customer name, dealer name, product purchased and date of purchase.

Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced (with a product deemed to be equivalent) at Rockford's discretion.

What is Not Covered

1. Damage caused by accident, abuse, improper operations, water, theft, shipping.
2. Any cost or expense related to the removal or reinstallation of product.
3. Service performed by anyone other than Rockford or an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Service Center.
4. Any product which has had the serial number defaced, altered, or removed.
5. Subsequent damage to other components.
6. Any product purchased outside the U.S.
7. Any product not purchased from an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer.

Limit on Implied Warranties

Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are limited in duration to the period of the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow limitations on the length of an implied warranty, so this limitation may not apply. No person is authorized to assume for Rockford Fosgate any other liability in connection with the sale of the product.

How to Obtain Service

Contact the Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer you purchased this product from. If you need further assistance, call 1-800-669-9899 for Rockford Customer Service. You must obtain an RA# (Return Authorization number) to return any product to Rockford Fosgate. You are responsible for shipment of product to Rockford.

EU Warranty

This product meets the current EU warranty requirements, see your Authorized dealer for details.