Directed 4x05.2 Installation Manual

The Directed 4x05.2 is a professional-grade 4-channel automotive amplifier designed for high-performance audio systems. Featuring 50 watts RMS per channel, low-level RCA inputs, speaker-level inputs, variable high-pass/low-pass crossovers, bass boost, and remote turn-on capability. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-channel amplifier chassis, Remote Control, Power/ground terminals, RCA inputs, Speaker outputs, Gain controls, Crossover controls.

Feature	Description
Power terminals	For +12V power and ground connections
RCA inputs	For low-level audio input from head unit
Speaker outputs	For connecting to speakers
Gain controls	Adjusts input sensitivity for each channel
Crossover controls	High-pass/low-pass frequency adjustment
Remote turn-on	For automatic amplifier activation
Bass boost	Enhances low-frequency response
Protection circuitry	Prevents damage from overload/shorts
Thermal management	Heat sink for efficient cooling
LED indicators	Power and protection status lights

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate mounting location.

Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
Mount amplifier: Secure to stable surface using provided hardware.
Connect power: Run +12V wire from battery with appropriate fuse.
Connect ground: Use short, thick wire to clean metal chassis point.
Connect RCA cables: Run from head unit to amplifier inputs.
Connect speakers: Use appropriate gauge wire for speaker outputs.
Connect remote turn-on: Wire to head unit's remote output.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before installation. Ensure proper fuse rating and wire gauge.

First-Time Setup

Reconnect battery; follow setup procedure.

Set gain controls: Start at minimum, adjust while playing test tone.
Configure crossovers: Set high-pass for front/rear speakers as needed.
Adjust bass boost: Use sparingly to avoid distortion.
Test all channels: Verify proper operation of each speaker.
Final adjustments: Fine-tune settings for optimal sound quality.

CAUTION! Avoid setting gains too high to prevent speaker damage. Ensure proper ventilation around amplifier.

Specifications

Channels: 4
Power Output: 50W RMS x 4 @ 4 ohms
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >85dB
Crossover: Variable high-pass/low-pass 50Hz-250Hz
Input Sensitivity: 200mV - 4V
Power Requirements: 12V DC
Fuse Rating: 20A x 2
Dimensions: Standard amplifier chassis size

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front/side panel adjustments.

Front Panel: Power LED, Protection LED, Gain controls, Crossover controls, Bass boost.

Gain: Adjust input sensitivity for optimal performance. Crossover: Set high-pass for full-range speakers or low-pass for subwoofers. Bass Boost: +0dB to +12dB boost at 45Hz. Input Selector: Choose between RCA or speaker-level inputs.

Connecting Devices

RCA inputs: From head unit. Speaker outputs: To speakers. Power: +12V and ground.

Turn off vehicle and disconnect battery before connecting.
Match RCA cables to appropriate inputs (front/rear).
Connect speakers observing proper polarity.
Ensure all connections are secure and insulated.

Tip: Use quality wiring and proper gauge for best performance.

Operation Guidelines

Designed for continuous automotive audio use.

Power on: Amplifier turns on automatically with head unit.
Normal operation: LED indicates power status.
Adjustments: Make fine-tuning adjustments while system is playing.
Monitoring: Watch for protection mode activation.
Shutdown: Turns off automatically with head unit.

WARNING! Do not operate with impedance below specified minimum. Avoid excessive gain settings.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatically reduces output if overheating detected. Short Circuit Protection: Shuts down if speaker wires short. Overload Protection: Prevents damage from excessive input signals.

Care & Maintenance

Keep amplifier clean and dry. Ensure proper ventilation. Check connections periodically.

CAUTION! Do not expose to moisture or extreme temperatures. Keep ventilation ports clear.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2025 Directed Electronics; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.directed.com or contact 1-800-876-0800.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check power/ground connections; verify fuse integrity.
Protection mode active	Short circuit/overheat	Check speaker wiring for shorts; allow amplifier to cool.
No sound	Input/connections	Verify RCA connections; check head unit settings.
Distorted sound	Gain settings	Reduce gain settings; check input signal level.
Overheating	Ventilation/impedance	Improve ventilation; verify speaker impedance.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset protection circuits.

Service: 1-800-876-0800; www.directed.com