AudioControl D-6.1200 Car Amplifier User Manual

AudioControl D-6.1200 Car Amplifier User Manual

The AudioControl D-6.1200 car amplifier is the epitome of audio engineering; it transforms your car’s audio system by combining powerful power with cutting-edge technology. With a powerful 1200-watt output from this 6-channel amplifier, your music will sound clear, powerful, and profound. One of the D-6.1200’s main advantages is its adaptability; it can operate in many speaker configurations, which makes it appropriate for a variety of unique audio arrangements. The ability to separately regulate each channel makes it possible to adjust and optimize the sound to fit both personal tastes and the car’s acoustics. It also has sophisticated DSP (Digital Signal Processing) features that enable users to precisely manipulate the audio output via an intuitive interface. Its functionality is further enhanced by features like equalization choices and integrated crossovers. Strong construction guarantees longevity and reliable operation in a range of circumstances. The AudioControl D-6.1200 is a powerful option that promises to completely change your in-vehicle audio experience, whether you’re an audiophile trying to create the best car audio experience or you’re just hoping to improve your listening enjoyment.

How to Use AudioControl D-6.1200

To make sure you get the most out of the AudioControl D-6.1200 car amplifier for your car audio system, there are a few procedures involved in using it.

Here is a usage guide for it:

1. Setting up:
   Installing the D-6.1200 professionally is advised because automobile audio systems can be intricate and call for certain wiring and configuration.
2. Linking Inputs and Speakers:
   Link the amplifier to your speakers. With the six channels on the D-6.1200, you can connect numerous speakers and subwoofers. Attach the amplifier to the audio source. Either low-level (RCA) or high-level (speaker) inputs could be used for this.
3. Turning the Amplifier On:
   After all connections are made correctly, turn the amplifier on. Make sure the electrical system in your automobile can supply the power needed for the amplifier.
4. Configuring Digital Signal Processing (DSP):
   To adjust the audio, use the DSP. Time alignment, equalization, and crossover configuration are all included in this. Depending on the model, DSP modifications can be accomplished through a linked interface or through onboard controls.
5. Modifying Profit and Breakthroughs:
   To match the output of your audio source to the amplifier, adjust the gain settings. It’s crucial to configure the crossovers to specify the frequency ranges for each channel if you’re utilizing subwoofers.
6. Examining and Adjusting:
   To test the overall sound, play a range of musical selections. To get the desired sound quality, adjust the settings as necessary. Adjusting the crossover, gain, and equalizer settings may be necessary for this.
7. When using bridging options, if any:
   A subwoofer, for example, can have its power increased by bridging some of the amplifier’s channels. To ensure a safe and efficient completion of this task, consult the handbook.
8. Keeping an Eye on Performance:
   When using the amplifier, keep an eye out for any indications of clipping (distortion) or overheating. Make sure nothing could obstruct the amplifier’s ability to dissipate heat and that it is properly ventilated.

Recall that the AudioControl D-6.1200 is a sophisticated device, and maximizing its potential may necessitate tinkering with location and parameter adjustments. For detailed instructions and safety information, refer to the user handbook. For the best setup and usage, think about consulting automotive audio experts.

Features

• 4/5/6 high-power amplifier channels
• 6x 125 W @ 4Ω, 6x 200 W @ 2Ω, 3x 400 W @ 4Ω Bridged
• Smart User Interface software included
• Input and Output RTA for precise and informed tuning
• GTO™ Signal Sensing (ch 1-2)
• MILC™ Clip Detection (ch 1-2)
• AccuBASS®
• Option Port
• Signal Summing
• Signal Delay
• 12 and 24 dB/octave crossovers
• 30 band equalizer
• Optional ACR-3 remote for preset recall and level control
• Solid and Rugged Chassis
• Clam Scented DSP

1. Fuses 40A – Replace these fuses only with the exact same style and Ampere rating. Disconnect 12V power before changing or inspecting the fuses.
2. Power Input Terminal +12V – The left screw terminal connects to the +12V battery binding post of the vehicle. Use good quality insulated wire, between 4 and 0 gauge.
   • Power Input Terminal Ground – The right screw terminal connects to a good ground connection on the vehicle. Use good quality insulated wire, between 4 and 0 gauge.
   • Remote Power Input Terminal – The middle screw terminal connects to the 12V remote trigger output of some head units. When the head unit is turned on, then the D-6.1200 will turn on. Alternatively, you can use the GTO™ feature of the D-6.1200 so it will turn on when an audio signal is detected at the speaker-level or line-level inputs of channels 1-2 (front).
3. RCA Analog Line-Level Inputs – The line-level output from the head unit or factory-installed radios can connect here, so the D- 6.1200 will receive the line-level audio signals.
4. RCA Analog Line-Level Outputs – These line-level analog outputs from the D-6.1200 connect to the line-level inputs of your power amplifiers and other equipment. The matrix capabilities of the D-6.1200 allow you to pick and choose the outputs from any combination of inputs, and add crossovers and EQ as required.
5. Speaker-Level Inputs – The speaker-level output from amplifiers and factory-installed radios can connect here, so the D-6.1200 will receive the audio signals this way and do its thing. Make sure that you follow the plus and minus polarity markings on the D-6.1200 and match it to the polarity of the speaker wiring. Speaker-level Inputs 1-2 have the GTO™ (great turn-on) signal-sense circuit that will awaken the D-6.1200 when an input signal is present.
6. USB Micro Connector – This connects to your computer’s USB A port to configure the D-6.1200 with the control software.
7. Remote Control Connector – This connects to the optional ACR-3 remote level control using a standard telephone cord.
8. Speaker-Level Output Terminals – These screw terminals connect with the speaker wire to your loudspeakers. Make sure that the average combined speaker impedance does not dip below 2 Ohms or 4 Ohms in Bridged mode. Outputs 1 and 2 can be combined in Bridge mode to power a single speaker. Use the 1+ and 2- terminals only. Outputs 3/4 and/or 5/6 can also be combined in bridge mode, use the 3+/4- and/or 5+/6-terminals only.
9. Option Port – This port allows you to connect our optional Bluetooth adapter, so you can stream audio into channels 7 and 8 from your Bluetooth-enabled devices. Or setup and control your D-6.1200 with the DM Smart app. Further details will be available when this accessory and others become available.
10. Power LED – If you have connected your battery power, vehicle ground, and turn-on lead (or GTO™ signal sensing) correctly, then this light should be GREEN to indicate the power is ON. An internal blue glow will also emanate from the heatsink area to indicate that the power is ON. There are times when this blue glow will flash, such as during power-up, and when the protection circuits have detected a problem. See the table below.
11. Protection LED – The D-6.1200 amplifier has built-in diagnostic codes to tell you exactly what is going wrong should the amplifier detect a problem. Below is a list of diagnostic codes to help you. If the protection LED should come on, read the red codes quickly before turning off the system and investigating. Note that the blue power codes mentioned in the table are for the internal blue glow from behind the heatsink area, and not the green power LED. If there is a problem with the unit, the sensing circuit will shut down the unit to protect itself, and this protection LED will come on. For example, this might happen if the temperature within the unit is too high. Check there is good ventilation around the unit, and that the speaker wires are not short-circuiting, and check that you are not running too low of a speaker impedance.
12. Communications LED – This LED turns on when there is USB activity between the D-6.1200 and your computer during set-up.
13. GTO™ Signal Sense – In the ON position, the D-6.1200 amplifier will turn on gracefully when it detects an incoming audio signal on inputs 1 and 2, and it will turn off after some time when the audio signal fades away to silence. In some situations, factory-installed audio systems may turn on or “wake up” due to convenience features like door chimes, alarms, and cell phone signals that trigger the source unit in the vehicle to come on. To prevent these from turning your audio system on unexpectedly, you can bypass the GTO™ circuit by moving the GTO™ switch to the OFF position and use a switched 12-volt signal connected to the Re-mote In terminal instead.
14. MILC™ Source Clip LED – The MILC™ (Maximum Input Level Control) patent-pending level-setting circuit (on inputs 1-2 only) prevents clipping and damaging distortion. It calculates when the waveform of an incoming audio signal is clipping, and if it is, this LED will fulfil its destiny and shine forth. With this advanced feature, you are able to optimize the level of the incoming audio signal until the Source Clip LED is just about should adjust the level of the audio signals before they reach the D-6.1200.
15. Maximized Input LEDs – These LEDs illuminate when a maximum audio signal is present on any of the analogue audio inputs. During power-up, these LEDs and the output LEDs will turn on momentarily, one after the other. Turn down the levels if these LEDs are on a lot.
16. Maximized Output LEDs – These LEDs illuminate when there is a maximum signal present on any of the analogue audio outputs. Turn down the output levels if these LEDs are on a lot.

Power Connections

Head Unit

In this example, the head unit has a +12V trigger output that is connected to the D-6.1200 remote input terminal. When the head unit is turned on, it will turn on the D-6.1200. Alternatively, the GTO™ signal sense feature can be used to gently turn on the D-6.1200 when an audio input signal is detected at inputs 1-2. (Then the connection to the D-6.1200’s remote input terminal is not required.) The +12V power wiring and Ground wiring should be between 8 and 3 AWG.

System #1: Using speaker-level inputs

System #2: Using line-level inputs

System #3: Using an external subwoofer amplifier

Installation

We recommend mounting the D-6.1200 in the trunk/boot or cargo area of the vehicle. An alternative location would be under the front seat of your vehicle if there is enough room to install and also to reach the controls.

When choosing a location, please keep these things in mind:

1. Before you start, disconnect the +12V positive and negative cables from the battery in the vehicle to prevent any damage to the vehicle or the amplifier during the installation process.
2. Pick a mounting location that will provide access to the controls and connections, provide adequate ventilation, and protect the unit from heat, moisture, and dirt.
3. The D-6.1200 needs to be securely mounted using the four mounting holes located in each corner.
4. Before drilling any holes, take every precaution to prevent damage to fuel lines, power and other electrical wiring, hydraulic brake lines, and other systems, that might compromise vehicle safety.
5. Always mount the unit as far from the antenna in the vehicle as possible, and away from the radio or any other RF-sensitive electronics in the vehicle.
6. Use between 4 and 0-gauge insulated power cables to connect the +12V terminal of the D-6.1200 to the positive terminal of the vehicle battery.
7. Use between 4 and 0-gauge insulated cable to connect the ground terminal of the D-6.1200 to the negative terminal of the vehicle battery.
8. The D-6.1200 has speaker-level inputs that are designed to accept amplified, speaker-level signals from a factory source unit or amplifier. You may need to refer to a factory service manual or wiring-harness schematic to determine which wires are the speaker wires for your system. If you are unsure which are the speaker wires, we recommend you look at the colour of the speaker wires connected to the speakers and follow them back to the source. Connect the speaker wires to the D-6.1200 speaker-level input plugs using the correct polarity.
9. Line-level audio signals will generally come from your after-market radio, or if you are really getting the most out of your car audio system they may be coming from an awesome product like the AudioControl LC6i (shameless plug). There are generally only two things to consider when using the line-level RCA inputs:
   1. Use good shielded or twisted pair RCA cables.
   2. Run your RCA cables at least 18” away from power and speaker cables to avoid picking up radiated noise in your system.

ACR-3 Dash Control Option
The optional AudioControl ACR-3 dash control is a dual-function remote for your D-6.1200. It may be mounted under the dash using its own bracket, or through a custom hole in the dash. The endless knob should be within reach of the driver, and in a spot where the two LEDs are plainly visible. Disconnect the vehicle battery +12V and Ground connections before installation.

1. When the left (BLUE) LED is on, turn the remote knob clockwise to turn the level up, and counterclockwise to turn it down.
2. To recall a memory preset with the ACR-3, press the knob in to switch from blue mode (volume control) to RED mode (preset recall). If, within two seconds, you turn the knob clockwise one click, it will recall one preset higher than you are currently operat-ing. If, within two seconds, you turn the knob counter-clockwise, it will recall one preset lower than you are currently operating (for example, to change from Memory 2 to Memory 1).

Top Lid Removal

The top lid must be removed to gain access to the controls, and then put back on again to protect the controls from dust bunnies.

Removal Procedure

1. Locate the two screws that hold the straight edge of the lid onto the connector side of the amplifier.
2. Use the supplied hex key to loosen both screws just enough until this edge of the lid can lift freely up just a little. (There is no need to remove the screws all the way, in case you lose them.)
3. Slide the lid toward the heatsink fins just a tad, before further lifting the straight edge of the lid about 2”, then disengage the remaining two points of contact (under the wavy edge).
4. Place the lid in a safe and handy place, ready for the time when you have finished adjusting the controls to your immense satisfaction, and just before Parker brings tea and sandwiches.

The Display

The display has three main sections: Input View, Output View, and Dashboard View, in addition to the top menu bar (File, Tools, Help) and the Memory (1, 2, 3, 4) section. For more details of the software application, please take a look at the on-line owner’s manual.

Input View

This display allows you to set the input gains, polarities and delays. The goal of the Input View display is to get all of the signals arriving to the D-6.1200 evenly balanced in level, and time-aligned so that they can be summed as desired later. The integrated Real Time Analyzer (RTA) helps achieve this objective.

1. Select an input pair from this row, and then the parameters shown will be for this input pair.

Output View

This is where you will spend the majority of your tuning time, as it is where you will set routing and summing, output levels, crossovers, EQ and AccuBASS® settings. The D-6.1200 is exceptionally flexible and can be configured to use any output in any bandwidth or source and match the needs of the installation.

1. Select an output from this list, and it will be highlighted in glorious living grey. Then all the parameters shown are for this output pair.

Dashboard View

This display allows you to conveniently see the settings of any one input and any one output simultaneously. All of the controls work the same as the Input View and Output View.

Specifications

All specifications are measured at 14.4 VDC (standard automotive voltage). As technology advances, AudioControl reserves the right to continuously change our specifications, like our Pacific Northwest weather, although we are working on changing that as well.

D-6.1200

• Power Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 x 125 Watts @ 4 Ohms
• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 x 200 Watts @ 2 Ohms
• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 x 400 Watts @ 4 Ohms Bridged
• Frequency Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Hz – 30 kHz
• S/N Ratio ……………………… 102 dBa, Ref 200 Watts @ 2 Ohm
• THD+N ……………………………………………… < 0.1%
• Bass Processing ………………………… AccuBASS® Restoration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (AccuBASS® Patent # 9,225,305)
• Power / Ground Wire Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Between 4 and 0 AWG
• Fuse Rating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 x 40 Amps
• Speaker-Level Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 x summable, 40 V max
• Line-Level Inputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 x balanced RCA, 8 V max
• Line-Level Outputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 x balanced RCA, 8 V max
• Weight ……………………………………………….7.2 lbs
• Dimensions …………………………12.00″ W X 7.95″ D X 2.10″ H

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