TA2150 - Receiver Autotek - Free user manual and instructions

Product type	2-channel car audio amplifier
Brand	Autotek
Model	TA2150
RMS Output Power	2 x 75 W @ 4 Ω, 2 x 135 W @ 2 Ω
Max Output Power	2 x 150 W @ 4 Ω, 2 x 275 W @ 2 Ω
Speaker Impedance (stereo)	2 - 8 Ω
Speaker Impedance (bridged)	4 Ω minimum
Frequency Response	5 - 50,000 Hz (-3 dB)
Distortion Rate	< 0.5 % (1 kHz)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	> 80 dB
Input Sensitivity (RCA)	0.2 - 5 V
Input Sensitivity (high-level)	0.4 - 10 V
Input Impedance	10 kΩ
Low-pass filter	50 - 250 Hz @ 12 dB/octave
High-pass filter	80 - 2000 Hz @ 12 dB/octave
Bass EQ	Switchable 0 / 6 / 12 dB @ 60 Hz
Power supply	+12 V (9-15 V), negative ground
Fuse	1 x 30 A
Dimensions (L x H x D)	225 x 50 x 237 mm
Inputs	RCA and high-level (HIGH IN)
Outputs	Speaker terminals (2 channels or bridged)
Protection	Short circuit, overheating, low impedance
Installation	Ground wire before +12V; +12V wire with fuse < 30 cm from battery; REM wire 0.5 mm²; ventilated space
Maintenance	Clean with a dry cloth; check connections
Safety	Disconnect battery before installation; respect polarity; do not use RCA and HIGH IN simultaneously

Frequently Asked Questions - TA2150 Autotek

How to install the TA2150 amplifier?

Before installation, disconnect the negative battery terminal. First, connect the amplifier's GND terminal to ground (cable of at least 10 mm²). Then, connect the +12V terminal via an inline fuse (max 30 cm from battery). The REM wire (0.5 mm²) must be connected to the remote turn-on output of the car stereo. Mount the amplifier in a well-ventilated area, preferably in the trunk.

What is the output power of the amplifier?

The RMS power is 2 x 75 W @ 4 Ω and 2 x 135 W @ 2 Ω. At max power, it reaches 2 x 150 W @ 4 Ω and 2 x 275 W @ 2 Ω.

Can I use 4 ohm speakers?

Yes, in stereo mode, the minimum impedance is 2 Ω per channel. In bridged mode, the impedance must be at least 4 Ω.

How to adjust the input sensitivity (Gain)?

Set the car stereo volume to about 75% of its range. Then adjust the GAIN potentiometer on the amplifier to obtain a medium sound level. This ensures optimal headroom with a good signal-to-noise ratio.

What do the POWER and PROTECT LEDs mean?

The POWER LED lights up when the amplifier is powered on. The PROTECT LED lights up in case of overheating, short circuit, or too low impedance. If it lights up, the protection circuit automatically shuts down the amplifier. Resolve the issue (cooling, short circuit) before restarting.

How to use the low-pass filter for a subwoofer?

Set the X-OVER switch to LPF (low-pass filter). Adjust the LPF control (50-250 Hz) to set the cutoff frequency. Only lower frequencies will be amplified, ideal for a subwoofer.

How to use the high-pass filter for speakers?

Set the X-OVER switch to HPF (high-pass filter) or FULL for full-range reproduction. Adjust the HPF control (80-2000 Hz) to cut bass. A good starting point is 125 Hz.

What to do if the amplifier does not turn on?

First check the inline fuse of the positive cable (near the battery) and the amplifier's fuses (30 A). Make sure the GND connection is clean and solid. Measure the voltage on the +12V and REM terminals (should be between 9 and 15 V). If everything is correct, check the wires.

Can I connect the amplifier without RCA outputs on the car stereo?

Yes, use the HIGH LEVEL (HIGH IN) input. Connect the car stereo's speaker wires to the HIGH IN jack connectors of the amplifier. Do not use the RCA inputs simultaneously.

How to use the Bass EQ?

The BASS EQ switch allows increasing the bass at 60 Hz in steps of 0, 6, or 12 dB. Use it moderately to avoid distortion and damage to speakers.

USER MANUAL TA2150 Autotek

Please read the user's manual carefully before the installation and the first operation of the amplifier.

SPECIFICATIONS	TA2150
Output Power RMS	2 x 75 W @ 4 Ohms 2 x 125 W @ 2 Ohms
Output Power Max.	2 x 150 W @ 4 Ohms 2 x 250 W @ 2 Ohms
Loudspeaker impedance (stereo)	2 - 8 Ohm
Frequency Response	5 - 50 000 Hz (-3 dB)
Total Harmonic Distortion	< 0,5 % (1 kHz)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	> 80 dB
Input Sensitivity	0,2 - 5 V (RCA) 0,4 - 10 V (High Level Inputs)
Input Impedance	10 kOhm
Low Pass Filter	50 - 250 Hz @ 12 dB/Octave
High Pass Filter	60 - 1200 Hz @ 12 dB/Octave
Bass EQ	Switchable 0 / 6 / 12 dB @ 60 Hz
Operating Voltage	+12 V (9 - 15 V), negative ground
Fuse Rating	1 x 30 A
Dimensions (B x H x L)	223 x 63 x 200/226 mm
All Specifications are subject to change

IMPORTANT NOTES PRIOR TO INSTALLATION

• This device is only suited for a 12 volt system with negative ground.

• The radiated heat while operation requires sufficient air circulation at the place of installation. It is very important that the heatsink fins do not have contact with any metal parts or any surfaces which could impair air circulation. The amplifier may not be installed in small closed location or spaces without air circulation (e.g. spare wheel recess or below the vehicle carpeting). We recommend the installation in the vehicle's trunk. Ensure sufficient protection against vibrations, dust and dirt.

• Ensure that the input and output cables are sufficiently separated from the power supply cables. Otherwise interferences may occur.

• Ensure the accessibility of the fuse and the operating elements after installation.

• The reliability and performance of the amplifier depends on the quality of installation. Preferably consult an expert to install the system, particularly if you want to install several loudspeakers.

INTERCONNECTION

POWER SUPPLY AND TURN-ON-CONNECTION

ATTENTION: Before you start with the installation, disconnect the ground connection from the vehicle's battery in order to prevent short circuits.

The power wiring which is usually installed in on-board car networks is not sufficient for a power amplifier's demands. Make sure that the power wires to GND and to the +12V terminal has been sufficiently specified. A cable cross section of at least 10mm^2 must be used to connect the battery to the amplifier's terminals.

First connect the GND terminal of the amplifier to an appropriate ground connection at the chassis. To ensure a good connection, residue dirt and dust from the connection point. A loose connection may cause malfunctions or interferences noise and distortion.

Then connect the +12V terminal of the amplifier with the battery by using an appropriate cable including an in-line fuse. This fuse should be located very close to the battery; for safety reasons not more than 30~cm away. Only insert the fuse when the installation, including the connection of the loudspeakers, has been accomplished.

Then connect the remote turn-on-wire from the head unit with the amplifier's REM terminal. A cable with a cross-section of 0.5mm^2 is adequate.

LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTIONS

• In 2-channel operation (i.e. one loudspeaker on each amplifier channel), the impedance must not be lower than 2 ohms for each speaker
• In bridging mode (two amplifier outputs combined) the impedance must not be lower than 4 ohms for the bridged output.
• Never connect loudspeaker cables with the ground of the chassis or the +12V supply voltage.

If the amplifier is operated with a too low impedance or incorrectly used, the entire sound system may be damaged. This means a warranty void in such cases.

AUDIO SIGNAL CABLES

When installing the audio cables between the RCA outputs of the head unit and the RCA inputs of the amplifier, the audio and power supply cables should, if possible, not be routed along the same side of the vehicle. We recommend a separated installation, e.g. routing the power cable through the cable channel on the left side and the audio cables through the cable channel of the vehicle on the right side or vice versa. This prevents interferences due to crosstalk into the audio signal.

HIGH LEVEL INPUTS

The HIGH IN (Fig. 1,2) is suitable to connect the amplifier inputs with speaker wires, if your head unit is not equipped with pre-amplifier RCA outputs. Extend therefor every regarding speaker cable from your head unit with appropriate speaker cables from your car audio retailer to the mounting location of the amplifier. Then connect the each matching loudspeaker cable with the cables of the included HIGH IN jack like described below.

ATTENTION: Never use the High Level Input and the RCA inputs at the same time. This may damage the amplifier seriously. The loudspeaker cables of the HIGH IN must have no contact to the ground (GND) by any means.

OPERATING ELEMENTS

INPUT SENSITIVITY

Turn the GAIN (Fig. 1,3) controller of the amplifier to the MIN position. Then turn the volume controller of the head unit to 80 - 90% of its full setting. Now turn GAIN clockwise until you hear some distortion. Then turn back the GAIN slightly until you hear a cleaner sound.

VARIABLE HIGH PASS FILTER

If the amplifier is to be used for mid-range/tweeter loudspeakers, set the switches X-OVER (Fig. 1,6) to HPF. Then set the desired cross-over frequency on the HPF controller (Fig.1,7). Thus to that only the frequencies above the chosen cross-over frequency will be amplified. This effectively minimizes distortions and overloads at lower frequencies. A good point to start is at 125Hz .

If you use loudspeakers ( >20 cm) set X-OVER (Fig.1,6). to "FULL". In this case, the HPF controller are without function (Fig.1,7).

VARIABLE LOW PASS FILTER

If the amplifier is used to drive a subwoofer, set the switch (Fig. 1,6) to "LPF". Set the desired cross-over frequency by using the controller (Fig. 1,5). Thus to that only the frequencies below the chosen cross-over frequency will be amplified and the subwoofer plays more precisely and efficient.

SWITCHABLE BASS EQ

By using the BASS EQ switch (Fig.1,4) you are able to increase the bass level by 6 or 12 dB at 60Hz . Attention: Use the BASS EQ wisely!

PROTECTION CIRCUIT

The POWER-LED (Fig. 2,8) lits up, if the amplifier is in operation.

The PROTECT-LED (Fig. 2,8) lits up, when the amplifier is overheated, or a short circuit occurs resp. a too low impedance load is connected to the speaker outputs. If this events, the internal built-in protection circuit shuts down the amplifier automatically. The amplifier should work again properly after you have solved the problems.

FIGURES (P. 28-30)

CONNECTIONS AND CONTROLLER (FIG. 1)

(1) Audio signal inputs
(2) High level inputs
(3) Gain level controller
(4) Selector for the stage-to-stage enhancement of the bass level
(5) Low pass filter controller
(6) Selector FULL / LPF (Low pass) / HPF (High pass)
(7) High pass filter controller

POWER SUPPLY AND TURN ON CONNECTION (FIG. 2)

(1) GND terminal for the ground
(2) REM terminal for the turn on connection
(3) +12V terminal for the positive-connection of the battery
(4) Vehicle's battery
(5) In-Line Fuse (not included in the scope of delivery)
(6) Turn on wire from the head unit or the electrical antenna
(7) Fuse(s)
(8) POWER-LED and PROTECT-LED

2-CHANNEL OPERATION STEREO (FIG. 3)

If you want to run the amplifier with the 2 line output channels from the head unit to drive 2 loudspeakers, in stereo connect the following setup:

(1) To the headunit, line output left
(2) To the headunit, line output right
(3) Loudspeaker left
(4) Loudspeaker right

1-CHANNEL OPERATION MONO (FIG. 4)

If you want to run the amplifier with the 2 line output channels from the head unit to drive a subwoofer, connect the following setup:

(1) To the head unit, line output rear left or subwoofer output
(2) To the head unit, line output rear right or subwoofer output
(3) Subwoofer

IMPORTANT!

Always observe the correct polarity of all connections!

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

Procedure 1:

Check Amplifier for proper connections.

Verify that POWER LED is on. If POWER LED 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 16 Volts present at the positive battery and remote turn-on cable. Verify quality connections for both cables at amplifier, head unit, and battery/fuse holder. Repair/replace if necessary.

Procedure 2:

PROTECT LED 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 an ohm meter to check for possible shorts in the speaker wiring. Too low speaker impedance may also cause PROTECTION to light. This can also be a sign of driving the amplifier at very high power levels without adequate airflow around the amplifier. Shut off the system and allow amplifier to cool. Check that the vehicle charging system is maintaining proper voltage. If the previous items do not solve the problem, a fault may be in the amplifier. In this case you should contact your dealer.

Procedure 3:

Check Amplifier for audio output.

1. Verify good RCA input connections at head unit and amplifier. Check entire length of cables for kinks, splices, etc.

Test RCA inputs for AC volts with head unit on. Repair/replace if necessary.

Procedure 4:

Check Amplifier for a popping noise while turning on.

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 (i.e. battery direct).
2. If the noise is eliminated, use a relay to isolate the amplifier from noisy turn-on output.

Procedure 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

1. Bypass any and all electrical components between the head unit and the amplifier(s). Connect head unit directly to input of amplifier. If noise goes away the unit being bypassed is the cause of the noise.

OR

1. 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

1. Add secondary ground cable from negative battery terminal to the chassis metal or engine block of vehicle.

OR

1. 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.

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