Owner’s manual
APX2120
APX4240
APX1300
APX AMPLIFIERS
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Contents
1. FEATURES ............................................................................................................. 4
2. PRECAUTIONS ...................................................................................................... 5
Installation............................................................................................................... 5
3. CONTROLS ............................................................................................................ 6
4. OPERATIONS ......................................................................................................... 7
Setting the operating level ...................................................................................... 7
Improving bass sound............................................................................................. 7
Designing a more advanced system ....................................................................... 7
Connecting a source unit without RCA outputs ...................................................... 7
Care and maintenance ........................................................................................... 8
5. INSTALLATION AND WIRING................................................................................ 8
What is included in the box ..................................................................................... 8
Mounting precautions ............................................................................................. 8
Wiring precautions .................................................................................................. 9
Power and speaker connections ........................................................................... 10
Applications .......................................................................................................... 11
Setting the gain ..................................................................................................... 14
Setting the crossover ............................................................................................ 15
Setting the bass boost .......................................................................................... 15
Final system checks ............................................................................................. 15
6.TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................................................... 16
7. GLOSSARY .......................................................................................................... 17
8. SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................ 17
9. LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION ................................................................ 18
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1. FEATURES
The Clarion APX2120, APX4240, and APX1300 amplifiers fit a variety of system
configurations and provide these features:
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Full frequency response with low distortion and exceptional signal-to-noise
performance
Advanced circuitry design provides bridgeable outputs for use in a variety of
applications
Independent electronic crossovers, each with a 12dB per octave slope and full
adjustment range (from 50Hz to 300Hz) to aid in audio system design
Bass boost circuit to reinforce low frequency signals that may be lost due to
subwoofer box design
Adjustable input level controls with ground loop isolation to accept a wide range of
input signals
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Remote turn-on with “soft start” muting to prevent turn-on “thump”
Protection circuits for overheating and speaker shorts
2-Ohm load capable of driving a variety of speaker systems
Gold-plated input/output connectors and an on-board automotive-type fuse
Aluminum heat sink for efficient heat dissipation
Low profile, compact footprint to accommodate space limitations
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2. PRECAUTIONS
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Do not operate this product in ways other than those described in this manual.
Do not disassemble or modify this product.
Do not pour liquid or poke foreign objects into the unit. Water and humidity will
damage internal circuitry.
•
If the unit becomes wet, turn off all power and ask your authorized Clarion dealer to
clean or service the unit.
Failure to observe these precautions may damage your car or the amplifier, and may
void the warranty.
WARNING
Exposure to continuous sound levels of 85dB or higher may
result in hearing loss. Although Clarion products are capable
of producing high sound pressure levels, please use your
product at reasonable levels.
While operating your vehicle, please observe all local sound
ordinances for your safety.
Installation
Installation of mobile audio and video components requires experience with a variety of
mechanical and electrical procedures. Although this manual provides general installa-
tion and operation instructions, it does not show the exact installation methods for your
particular vehicle.
If you do not have the required knowledge and experience to successfully complete the
installation, consult an authorized Clarion dealer about professional installation options.
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3. CONTROLS
4
7 11
12
8
1
APX1300 controls and input connections
11
12
7
4
1
8
APX2120 controls and input connections
6
5
7
7
9 14
13 2
3 15
16 10
APX4240 controls and input connections
1. RCA input jacks
2. Front RCA input jacks
3. Rear RCA input jacks
4. Gain control
8. Speaker level inputs
9. Front speaker level inputs 14. Front X-Over mode switch
10. Rear speaker level
inputs
13. Front frequency control
15. Rear frequency control
16. Rear X-Over mode switch
5. Front gain control
6. Rear gain control
7. Bass boost control
11. Frequency control
12. X-Over mode switch
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4. OPERATIONS
Setting the operating level
The gain controls allow you to set the nominal operating level of the amplifier from
250mV to 2.5V for RCA inputs or 500mV to 5V for speaker level inputs. This wide
adjustment range accommodates virtually any source unit brand.
Improving bass sound
The amplifiers feature a narrow-frequency band bass boost circuit (known as “high-Q”).
The bass boost control acts much like an equalizer with switchable gain fixed at 45Hz.
Use this control to tune low-frequency audio response to compensate for a less than
ideal subwoofer enclosure design. The added boost produces rich, full bass tones that
are normally difficult to reproduce in the car audio environment.
Note:
If you don’t want to boost the bass frequencies, set this control to “OFF.”
Designing a more advanced system
Freq (Hz) controls
The crossover frequency is fully adjustable between 50Hz and 300Hz. Use the high-
pass/low-pass filter controls, along with your speaker manufacturer’s recommended
crossover frequencies, to quickly design a more advanced system.
Note:
If you set either of the X-Over mode switches “OFF,” varying the Freq (Hz)
control has no effect.
X-Over mode switches
These switches are equipped with 12dB per octave electronic filters for precise
frequency attenuation with minimal phase distortion. To activate each filter, slide the
X-Over mode switch to either HP or LP (APX4240 and APX2120 only).
Connecting a source unit without RCA outputs
The speaker level inputs provide connections for a high-level stereo source. Use them if
your source unit does not have RCA outputs.
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Care and maintenance
Cleaning the cabinet
Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe dust and dirt from the unit.
Do not use benzene, thinner, car cleaner, or other cleaners. These substances may
damage the unit or cause the paint to peel.
Servicing the unit
In the event that trouble arises, never open the case or disassemble the unit. The
internal parts are not serviceable by the user. Opening any components will void the
warranty.
CAUTION!
Changes or modifications to this product not approved by the
manufacturer will void the warranty and will violate FCC ap-
proval.
5. INSTALLATION AND WIRING
Read these instructions and the following precautions carefully.
What is included in the box
In addition to this manual, the box contains:
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Amplifier
High-level speaker input harness
Mounting precautions
If you lack the necessary skills, do not install the amplifier yourself. See your authorized
Clarion dealer for installation recommendations.
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This unit is exclusively for vehicles with a negative ground, 12V power supply.
This unit requires additional mobile audio components for proper operation.
Choose a location in the vehicle that provides adequate ventilation around the
amplifier. Although any moving air dissipates heat, cool air should run along the
length of the fins rather than across them.
CAUTION
Although Clarion amplifiers include heat sinks and protection
circuits, mounting an amplifier in a tight space without any air
movement will damage the unit’s internal circuitry over time.
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Mount the amplifier on a rigid surface away from subwoofer enclosures or to any
area that is prone to vibration. Do not install the amplifier on plastic or on any other
combustible material.
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For easy system setup, mount the amplifier so that the front panel controls are
accessible after installation.
Always use great care when attaching anything to a vehicle! Check clearances on
all sides of the planned installation before drilling any holes or installing any screws.
Make sure the holes you drill will not cut into the fuel tank, fuel lines, break lines
(under the chassis) or electrical wiring.
Wiring precautions
Read all wiring precautions. If you are not sure of the connections, contact your
authorized Clarion dealer.
•
Before you start, make sure the source unit’s power switch is off.
WARNING!
To prevent short circuits during installation, disconnect the
vehicle’s negative (-) battery lead before making any power
connections.
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Extra cable can cause signal loss and act as an antenna for noise. Use only high-
quality RCA cables that are no longer than necessary to make a direct connection
with the source unit and amplifiers.
Make sure each connection is clean and secure. Insulate final connections with
electrical tape or shrink tubing.
CAUTION
Improper connections may damage the equipment.
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When routing RCA cables, keep the cables away from the power cables and output
speaker wires.
A good chassis ground connection is critical to minimize resistance and avoid noise
problems. Use the shortest wire possible. Clean off any paint prior to making
connections. Securely connect the ground wire to the car chassis and the source
unit ground.
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Add an external fuse to the amp’s positive (+) power lead and connect it as close as
possible to the vehicle’s plus (+) battery terminal. Use a fuse rated to the total
current consumption of the amplifier. Adding an external fuse protects the electrical
system from short circuits that can result in a fire.
Do not open the case. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. If you require
assistance, consult your Clarion dealer or an authorized Clarion service center.
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Power and speaker connections
3
6
4
8
7
5
APX1300 power and speaker connections
6
8
7
5
3
4
APX2120 power and speaker connections
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1
2
8
7
5
9
10
APX4240 power and speaker connections
1. Left front speaker output
6. Ground input
2. Right front speaker output
3. Left speaker output
7. Battery +12V input
8. Fuse
4. Right speaker output
5. Remote turn-on input
9. Left rear speaker output
10. Right rear speaker output
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Applications
The APX1300 car audio amplifier can be used in a variety of system applications.
Mono subwoofer system
This application shows the amplifier in mono operation to drive a subwoofer.
Set X-Over mode to LPF and adjust the frequency to the subwoofer specifications.
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Subwoofer system
In this application, the amplifier is used in a subwoofer system.
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Four-channel stereo system
In this application, the APX4240 is used as a four-channel amplifier to drive four full-
range speakers in stereo.
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Two-channel high power system
In this application, the APX2120 is used to drive a pair of subwoofers.
Setting the gain
After completing the installation, follow these steps to set the gain control and perform
the final system checks.
1. Turn the gain control all the way counterclockwise.
2. Turn the vehicle’s ignition switch on.
3. Turn the source unit on.
4. Set all tone or equalization controls to flat positions and turn loudness off.
5. Play a CD or tape and set the volume control to 75% of full level.
Note:
If the system uses an equalizer, set all frequency controls to the flat
position.
6. Slowly increase the gain control. Stop when you hear a slight audio distortion.
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Setting the crossover
Clarion amplifiers feature fully-adjustable crossovers.
1. Using the X-Over mode switch, select either LP (low pass) or HP (high pass) or
OFF for full range.
2. Using the Freq (Hz) control, select the frequency.
Setting the bass boost
1. Initially set the bass boost control to off.
2. Listen to a variety of music styles (for example, rock, rap, etc.) and switch the bass
boost control on until you notice an increase in low bass response.
CAUTION
If you hear a pop caused by speaker overexertion, lower the
bass boost to prevent damage to the speaker.
Final system checks
1. Start the engine and turn on the source unit.
2. After a two-second delay, slowly increase the volume control and listen to the audio.
If you hear any noise, static, distortion or no sound at all, check the connections and
refer to Troubleshooting. Depending on your system, the volume may become quite
loud even at low level settings. Until you get an “audio feel” for the system’s power,
use care when adjusting the controls.
3. Turn the balance controls to their extreme positions and listen to the results. Audio
output should match control settings (audio from the left speaker when balance is
left).
4. Increase the volume and verify that the amplifier reproduces the audio at full
frequencies without distortion.
If you hear distortion check the connections and verify that the gain control is set
correctly. Another cause of distortion could be underpowered or damaged speakers.
Refer to Troubleshooting.
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6. Troubleshooting
No Audio
• Low or no remote turn-on voltage: check remote connections at the amplifier and
source unit.
• Blown amplifier fuse: replace with a new fast-blow fuse (same rating).
• Power wires not connected: check battery and ground wiring at the amplifier and
check the battery connections.
• Speaker leads shorted: check speaker continuity to ground; it should not show a
common ground.
• Speakers not connected or are blown: check speaker connections at the amplifier;
measure coil impedance.
Audio cycles on and off
• Thermal protection circuits are shutting the amplifier off.
• Check the location for adequate ventilation. Consult an authorized Clarion audio
dealer.
Distorted audio
• Gain is not properly set or the speaker cones are damaged.
• Review the instructions for setting the gain. Inspect each speaker cone for signs of
damage, such as a frozen cone, burning smell, etc.
Amplifier fuse keeps blowing
• The wiring is connected incorrectly or there is a short circuit.
• Review the installation precautions and diagram in this manual and check all wiring
connections.
Whining or ticking noise when engine on
• The amplifier is picking up alternator or radiated noise.
• Turn down input gain.
• Move the audio cables away from the power wires.
• Check the power and ground connections on the amplifier and install an in-line
noise filter on the source unit’s power wire.
• Check the alternator and/or voltage regulator. Test for a weak battery or add water
to the battery.
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7. Glossary
Crossover: A device that limits the range of frequencies sent to a speaker or amplifier.
dB: decibel, a measurement of the relative difference in power or intensity between two
acoustic signals.
Equalizer: Component that boosts or cuts sound signal frequencies to improve the
quality of the sound.
Gain control: gain is the amount of amplification (voltage, current or power) of an audio
signal expressed in dB.
Hz: Abbreviation for Hertz, a unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second.
Octave: the musical principle of dividing sound frequencies into the eight notes of the
musical scale.
Ohm: unit of electric resistance
RCA input/output: port through which sound travels in and out of the system; “RCA”
refers to the type of connector, which was first manufactured by the Radio Corporation
of America.
Slope: how fast the sound gets quieter rated in dBs. The higher the dB number, the
faster the frequency drops off.
8. Specifications
Note:
The technical data and the design of the equipment may change without
prior notice for the sake of technical improvements.
Model
APX4240
APX2120
APX1300
Maximum power output
Continuous rated power1
Typical power in bridged mode2
Typical power in 2-Ohm load2
IM distortion
S/N (A-weighted)
Floor noise
400W
60W x 4
100W x 2
90W x 4
≤ 0.1%
≥ 85dB
N/A
200W
60W x 2
100W x 1
90W x 2
≤ 0.1%
≥ 85dB
N/A
400W
300W x 1
N/A
400W x 1
≤ 0.1%
≥ 85dB
N/A
Channel separation
≥ 60dB
≥ 60dB
N/A
Frequency response
Line level input sensitivity
Speaker level input sensitivity
Input impedance
20-30Hz full range 20-30Hz full range 20-30Hz full range
200mV to 5.5 Volts 200mV to 5.5 Volts 200mV to 5.5 Volts
2V to 9 Volts
22K Ohm
2V to 9 Volts
22K Ohm
2V to 9 Volts
22K Ohm
Allowable battery voltage
9.6 to 15.6 Volts
9.6 to 15.6 Volts
9.6 to 15.6 Volts
Size
13"x10 7/8"x2 3/4" 10 5/8"x10 7/8"x2 3/4" 13"x107/8"x2 3/4"
1 THD ≤ 0.1%, 10Hz-20kHz, into 4-Ohms, @ 14.4V, all channels driven
2 THD ≤ 0.1%, 10Hz-20kHz, @ 14.4V, all channels driven
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9. LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION
For USA and Canada only
Except as noted, Clarion products purchased from an authorized Clarion dealer are warranted against all
defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from date of original purchase.
The following Clarion products noted below ** are warranted against all defects in materials and workmanship
for a two (2) year period from the date of original purchase when purchased from AND installed by an
authorized Clarion dealer.
** DRZ9255 DXZ865MP DXZ765MP DXZ665MP DXZ465MP DFZ675MC DPX11500 DPX1800 DPX2250
All Clarion cables, wires and other accessories if purchased from an authorized Clarion dealer are warranted
against all defects in materials and workmanship for ninety (90) days from the date of original purchase.
ALL PURCHASES OF CLARION PRODUCTS FROM NON-AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALERS ARE
SUBJECT TO FURTHER WARRANTY RESTRICTIONS AS DESCRIBED BELOW.
The conditions of this Limited Warranty and the extent of responsibility of Clarion Corporation of America
(“Clarion”) under the Limited Warranty are as follows:
1. PROOF OF DATE OF PURCHASE FROM AN AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALER WILL BE REQUIRED
FOR WARRANTY SERVICE OF THIS PRODUCT. IN THE CASE OF THE TWO (2) YEAR LIMITED
WARRANTY FOR THE CLARION PRODUCTS NOTED ABOVE, PROOF OF DATE OF PURCHASE AND
PROOF OF INSTALLATION BY AN AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALER IS REQUIRED. INFORMATION
ABOUT CLARION AUTHORIZED WARRANTY SERVICE CENTERS MAY BE OBTAINED BY
CONTACTING CLARION AT THE ADDRESS LISTED BELOW.
2. This Limited Warranty will become void if service performed by anyone other than an approved Clarion
Warranty Service Center results in damage to the products.
3. This Limited Warranty does not apply to any product which has been subject to misuse, neglect or accident,
or which has had the serial number altered, defaced or removed, or which has been connected, installed,
adjusted or repaired, other than in accordance with the instructions furnished by Clarion.
4. This Limited Warranty does not cover car static or other electrical interferences, tape head or laser pick-up
cleaning or adjustments, or labor costs for the removal or reinstallation of the unit for repair.
5. The sole responsibility of Clarion under this Limited Warranty shall be limited to the repair of the product or
replacement of the product, at the sole discretion of Clarion.
6. Product must be shipped in its original carton or equivalent carton, fully insured, with shipping charges
prepaid. Clarion will not assume any responsibility for any loss or damage incurred in shipping.
7. CLARION PRODUCTS PURCHASED FROM A SOURCE OTHER THAN AN AUTHORIZED CLARION
DEALER, INCLUDING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES VIA THE INTERNET FROM A NON INTERNET
AUTHORIZED CLARION DEALER, SHALL NOT BE COVERED BY ANY CLARION LIMITED WARRANTY
TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY APPLICABLE LAW. IN THE EVENT AND TO THE EXTENT APPLICABLE
LAW PROHIBITS ELIMINATION OF WARRANTIES UNDER THESE CIRCUMSTANCES, THE
APPLICABLE LIMITED WARRANTY PERIOD SHALL BE DEEMED TO BE FIFTEEN (15) DAYS FROM
THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE.
8. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW SHALL
HAVE NO GREATER DURATION THAN THE WARRANTY PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE. UNDER NO
CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL CLARION BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE, DIRECT OR
CONSEQUENTIAL, ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT. BECAUSE
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS OR
EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
9. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE
OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
10. The laws of the state of California shall govern and control this Limited Warranty, its interpretation and
enforcement.
11. Should you have any difficulties with the performance of this product during the warranty period, please call
Clarion or visit our web site for a listing of Authorized Warranty Service Centers in your area. You may also
contact Clarion Customer Service at the address listed below for any service you may need with Clarion
products.
In USA
In Canada
Clarion Corporation of America
Attn: Customer Service Manager
661 W. Redondo Beach Blvd
Gardena, CA. 90247-4201
1-800-GO-CLARION (310)327-9100
Clarion Canada, Inc.
Warranty Service Center
2239 Winston Park Drive
Oakville, Ontario L6H 5R1
(905)829-4600
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Clarion Corporation of America
All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 2006: Clarion Corp. of America
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