RT202 - Receiver MTX Audio - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL RT202 MTX Audio

on your purchase of a new MTX Audio Road Thunder Amplifier! MTX has long been the industry leader in mobile audio and we have reached new heights with the development of the new MTX Road Thunder amplifiers. You couldn't have chosen a more reliable, powerful, or better performing amplifier.

We manufacture every amplifier using the latest Intelligent Surface Mount Technology. Some of the advantages of the new design are significant improvements to the amplifier's electrical and mechanical properties. ISMT devices feature substantially shorter internal and external lead lengths. This reduces stray capacitance and inductance, which results in cleaner and more accurate musical reproduction with significantly less noise interference. The ISMT mounter produces amplifier boards with smaller and lighter components, which are more resistant to vibrations inherent in the automotive environment.

We want to ensure you get continuous high performance from your MTX Road Thunder amplifier, so we recommend that you have it professionally installed by your authorized MTX dealer.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

If you are installing this amplifier yourself, we recommend that you read the manual cover-to-cover before you install it. Familiarize yourself with the features and details on the input and output panels. Make sure you have all the equipment you need. Then follow the step-by-step installation instructions included. Sample installation diagrams may be found on our website:

mtx.com

If you have any questions, write or call us: MTX Audio

4545 E. Baseline Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85042

602-438-4545 • 800-CALL MTX

[e-mail]

mtx.com

Please take a moment to register your purchase online at mtx.com.

Please, also record the serial number of your amplifier in the space provided below, and keep this manual for future reference, as well as your sales receipt as proof of ownership. (The serial number of your amplifier is marked on the bottom of its metal chassis.)

Serial Number:

Date of Purchase:

RT202 RT404

Features

• Unique rubber Insulated Iso-Feet™
• Nickel-plated, heavy duty terminal block type connectors
  • Speaker and low level inputs
• Input select 2CH/4CH switch on RT404 functions as a built-in Y connector
  • Color-coded wire harness for speaker level input installation
• Smart-Engage™ auto-turn on for easy integration with factory head units
  • Built-in, defeatable18dB/octave HP/LP crossover at 85 Hz
• RT404 front channel crossover is a defeatable18dB/octave, high pass, at 85Hz
• Adjustable input sensitivity
  • Bridgeable, multi-channel circuit design
  • Regulated PWM Mosfet Switching Power Supply
• New, more reliable high powered transformers
• Buffered, isolated output for daisy chaining multiple amplifiers
  • Pure N-Channel Design
  • Intelligent Surface Mount Technology
  • Class A 100% discrete driver circuit topology
  • Real-time computerized protection circuit
  • Anti-shock PCB mounting design
  • Acoustically Seamless Turn-on/Turn-off

Specifications

RT202

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load with <1% THD

150 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz,

selectable for high pass, low pass

Dimensions: Including Isp-Feet™

7.98" × 9.75" × 2.1" (20.3cm × 24.8cm × 5.3cm)

RT404

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load with < 1% THD

150 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz,

selectable for high pass, low pass, or full range on

rear channels and high pass or full range for front

channels

Dimensions: Including Iso-Feet™

11.5' x 9.75" x 2.1" (29.2cm x 24.8cm x 5.3cm)

ROAD THUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

1. RCA Input Jacks - These RCA input jacks are for use with source units that have RCA or Line Level Outputs. An independent set of jacks are provided on the RT404 for front and rear stereo inputs. A source unit with a minimum level of 200mV is required for proper operation. The use of high quality twisted pair cables is recommended to decrease the possibility of radiated noise entering the system.
2. Input Select 2CH/4CH - This switch, found on the RT404, is used to match the amplifier's input to the source unit's output so all four channels of the amplifier are driven. If your source unit has 2 outputs (left and right) connect them to the amplifier's front channel inputs, and place the input select switch in the 2CH position. If your source unit has 4 outputs, (left front, left rear, right front, right rear) connect them to the amplifier inputs and place the input select switch in the 4CH position. In the 4CH position, the fader on your source unit will operate.
3. Speaker Level Inputs - This input will allow the amplifier to operate from source units with speaker level outputs. Output speaker leads from the source unit should be tied directly to the wire harness provided with the amplifier.

Wire harness color codes:

Grey/Black = Source unit right negative (-) White/Black = Source unit left negative (-) Solid Grey = Source unit right positive (+) Solid White = Source unit left positive (+)

With the Smart-Engage™ auto-turn-on circuit, a remote turn-on wire is not necessary when connecting the speaker-level input wire harness to a high powered source unit. The amplifier will automatically turn on when music is received.

1. RCA Output – These RCA outputs allow for a signal to be sent to other amplifiers in a daisy-chain configuration. The RCA outputs on all Road Thunder series amplifiers will send a full-range signal to additional amplifiers.
2. Gain Controls – These controls are used to match the input sensitivity of the amplifier to the particular source unit that you are using. The controls are factory set to 1Vrms. Note that the RT404 has a separate gain control for front and rear channels.
3. Crossover Select - This switch controls the type of crossover configuration that you desire. Road Thunder series 2-channel amplifiers include a defeatable 18dB/octave, 85Hz crossover that is high pass/low pass or full range selectable. The RT404 four channel amplifier includes a defeatable 18dB/octave, 85Hz crossover that is high pass or full range for the front channels, and a high pass, low pass or full range for the rear channels.

RT202 RT404

Input Panel Layout

RT202 INPUT OUTPUT GAIN L R AMP X-OVER LP FR HP SPEAKER LEVEL INPUT R- L- R+ L+ 5 1 4 6 3

RT404 FRONT GAIN AMP X-OVIII IEA INPUT 5 2OH 4CH 1-1- R+ Li SPEAKER FRONT IN SUN OUT LEVEL INPUT FRONT L R L R REAR IN SPEAKER LEVEL INPUT REAR AMP X-OVIII EAH LF FR HP 5 6 3 1 4 1-1- R+ Li 6 5

ROADTHUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

1. Fuses - For convenience, all amplifiers utilize ATC type fuses. For continued protection in the event that a fuse blows, replace the fuse only with the same value. Caution: The power fuses on the amp are for protecting the amp against overdrive. To protect the vehicle's electrical system, an additional fuse is required within 18° of the battery on the 12V+ cable.
   RT202 - 20 Amp
   RT404 - 25 Amp x 2
2. Power Terminal - This is the main power input for the amplifier and must be connected directly to the positive terminal of the car battery for the amplifier to operate properly. See the chart below for recommended cable sizes for each amplifier. Use caution when running this cable through the car. Try to avoid the input RCA cables, antenna cabling, or other sensitive equipment as the large amount of current flowing through this cable can induce noise into your system. It is also very important to have a tight connection to ensure maximum performance.
   RT202 - 10 Gauge
   RT404 - 8 Gauge
3. Ground Terminal - A good quality ground is required for your Road Thunder Amplifier to operate at peak performance. A short length of cable the same gauge as your power cable should be used to attach the ground terminal directly to the chassis of the car. Always scrape or sand any painted surfaces to expose bare metal where the ground wire will attach.
4. Remote Terminal – All Road Thunder Amplifiers can be turned on by applying 12 volts to this terminal. Typically this voltage is supplied by a wire from the source unit marked "remote" or "electric antenna".
5. Speaker Terminals – As shown in the wiring diagrams, be sure to observe speaker polarity through the system. Failing to wire the speakers in proper phase could result in a loss of bass response and/or poor overall sound quality. Caution: Road Thunder amplifiers are not recommended for loads below 2 ohms stereo or 4 ohms bridged.
6. Power LED - A lighted LED indicates that power has been applied to the amplifier. +12V from the battery to the +BATT terminal and +12V from a switched ignition or remote lead from a head unit. An unlighted LED indicates power has been removed or the amplifier has overheated. In the case of the overheat condition, the amplifier will turn back on after it cools down.

RT202 RT404

Output Panel Layout

RT202 20A ① ② ④ ③ ⑥ + BATT REM GND + R - - L + BRIDGE - + ⑤

RT404 25A 25A +BATT REM GND + R - FRONT - L + + R - REAR - L + ① ② ③ ⑤

ROAD THUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

Adjusting the Gain

1. Turn the gain control on the amplifier all the way down.
2. Turn up the volume control on the source unit to approximately 12 of maximum.
3. Adjust the gain control on the amplifier until audible distortion occurs.
4. Adjust the gain control down until audible distortion disappears.
5. Follow steps 3-4 for other gain control settings. (RT404)
6. The amplifier is now calibrated to the output of the source unit.

Typical Speaker Wiring Configurations

Stereo Amplifier Bridge Mode Application Impedance Requirement
4 ohm bridge minimum 2 ohm stereo minimum

OK

Definitions of Common Terms

The following list of terms with their definitions is offered as help in understanding the set-up and operation of your amplifier.

1. Crossover (xover) - an electrical filter with high-pass or low-pass characteristics that divides the frequency range into playable bands for certain speakers. Subcoofers, mid-bass, midrange and tweeters are all designed to play different frequencies and should do so to avoid damage. The xover point is where the playable frequencies cross from one speaker to the next at -3dB below reference level.
2. Full-range - refers to signals which cover the entire audio frequency span from 20Hz to 20kHz.
3. High-pass - simply put, this blocks lower frequencies which damage smaller speakers, and passes the higher frequencies for smaller speakers like the midrange and tweeter.

4. Low-pass - you got it, this is the inverse of a high-pass. It blocks higher frequencies and passes the playable lower frequencies to the larger speakers, like subwoofers.

5. Impedance - the resistance to the flow of current in an alternating current circuit (such as with music). Line level circuits are typically a high impedance of several thousand ohms, while speaker level circuits are usually a low impedance of a few ohms.

6. Line level - the type of signal produced at the outputs of tape decks, CD tuners, preamplifiers, etc., with a typical value of a volt or less in a high impedance circuit.
7. Speaker level - the type of output that is meant to drive speakers. These signals are sometimes called high level and are usually connected by two conductor speaker wires.
8. Signal - the signal of an audio system is what is heard from the speakers. These signals may be high pass, low pass or full-range.

We don't have enough space for Electronics 101, so if you have a good, bad or amusing question, please call us TOLL FREE at 800-CALL MTXI (800-225-5689)

RT202 RT404

Troubleshooting Guide

Read this if you wanna be a do-it-yourselfer or give us a call at 800-CALLMTX.

Problem	Cause, Solution
No LED indication No +12V at remote connection Supply +12V to terminal
	No +12V at Power connection Supply +12V to terminal
	Insufficient ground connection Verify ground connection
	Blown power fuse Replace fuse
LED on, no output	Volume on head unit off Increase volume on head unit
	Speaker connections not made	Make speaker connections
	Gain control on amplifier off	Turn up gain
	Signal processing units off	Apply power to signal processor
	All speakers blown	Replace speakers
Output distorted	Head unit volume set too high	Lower head unit volume
	Amplifier gain set too high	Lower amplifier gain
Balance reversed	Speakers wired L + R reversed	Wire speakers with correct orientation
	RCA inputs reversed	Reverse RCA inputs
Some balance reversed	Some Speakers wired L + R reversed	Wire speakers with correct orientation
	Some RCA inputs reversed	Reverse appropriate RCA inputs
Bass is weak	Speakers wired out of phase	Wire with correct phase
	Not using MTX woofers	Buy MTX woofers
Blowing fuses	Excessive output levels	Lower volume
	Amplifier defective	Return for service

ROAD THUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

RT202 RT404

Introduction

FELICITATIONS...

FRENCH

COMMENT UTILISER CE MANUEL

4545 E. Baseline Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85042

602-438-4545

800-CALL MTX

[e-mail]

mtx.com

Caractéristiques

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load with <1% THD

150 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz.

selectable for high pass, low pass

Dimensions: Including Isp-Feet™

7.98" × 9.75" × 2.1" (20.3cm × 24.8cm × 5.3cm)

RT404

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load with < 1% THD

150 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz.

selectable for high pass, low pass, or full range on

rear channels and high pass or full range for front

channels

Dimensions: Including Iso-Feet™

11.5' x 9.75" x 2.1" (29.2cm x 24.8cm x 5.3cm)

ROADTHUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load with <1% THD

150 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz,

selectable for high pass, low pass

Dimensions: Including Isp-Feet™

7.98" × 9.75" × 2.1" (20.3cm × 24.8cm × 5.3cm)

RT404

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load with < 1% THD

150 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz,

selectable for high pass, low pass, or full range on

rear channels and high pass or full range for front

channels

Dimensions: Including Iso-Feet™

11.5' x 9.75" x 2.1" (29.2cm x 24.8cm x 5.3cm)

ROAD THUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

4545 E. Baseline Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85042

602-438-4545

800-CALL MTX

[e-mail]

mtx.com

ZUR VERWENDUNG DIESES HANDBUCHS

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load with <1% THD

150 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 2 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 2 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz.

selectable for high pass, low pass

Dimensions: Including Iso-Feet™

7.98" × 9.75" × 2.1" (20.3cm × 24.8cm × 5.3cm)

RT404

RMS Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

37.5 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

75 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load with < 1% THD

150 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load with < 1% THD

Dynamic Power measured at 14.4 Volts DC:

50 Watts x 4 into a 4 Ohm load

100 Watts x 4 into a 2 Ohm load

200 Watts x 2 bridged into a 4 Ohm load

Signal to Noise Ratio: 100dB A-Weighted

(Referenced to Rated PWR at 1VRMS Input Sensitivity)

Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz ±.25dB

Crossover: Defeatable, 18dB/octave at 85 Hz,

selectable for high pass, low pass, or full range on

rear channels and high pass or full range for front

channels

Dimensions: Including Iso-Feet™

11.5' x 9.75" x 2.1" (29.2cm x 24.8cm x 5.3cm)

ROAD THUNDER®

AMPLIFIEROWNER'SMANUAL

All MTX Audio Road Thunder Amplifiers purchased in the United States from an authorized MTX dealer are guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date purchased. This warranty is limited to the original retail purchaser of the product.

Product found to be defective during that period will be repaired or replaced by MTX at no charge. This warranty is void if it is determined that unauthorized parties have attempted repairs or alterations of any nature. Warranty does not extend to cosmetics or finish. Before presuming a defect is present in the product, be certain that all related equipment and wiring is functioning properly. MTX disclaims any liability for other incurred damages resulting from product defects. Any expenses incurred in the removal and reinstallation of products are not covered by this warranty. MTX's total liability will not exceed the purchase price of the product. If a defect is present, your authorized MTX dealer may be able to effect repairs.

Proof of purchase is required when requesting service, so please retain your sales receipt, and take a moment to register your warranty on line @ www.mtx.com.

For Warranty Inquiries, please call:

800-CALL MTX

602-438-4545

MTX Audio

4545 E. Baseline Rd.

Phoenix, Arizona 85042

Register Warranty Online:

mtx.com

The Pointe at South Mountain 4545 East Baseline Road Phoenix, AZ 85042 602-438-4545 800-CALL MTX mtx.com

MTX001285 RevA 8:02

NDM0200