Directed 5x10 User Manual

The Directed 5x10 is a professional-grade audio amplifier system designed for high-performance audio applications. With 5 channels of amplification delivering 10 watts per channel, this compact yet powerful unit features advanced thermal management, multiple input options, built-in crossovers, and comprehensive protection circuitry. 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 Modes 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-channel amplifier, thermal management system, multiple input connectors, protection circuitry, LED status indicators.

Feature	Description
Power Output	10 watts RMS per channel (5 channels total)
Input Connectors	RCA and high-level speaker inputs
Output Connectors	Spring-clip speaker terminals
Crossover Network	Built-in high-pass and low-pass filters
Thermal Protection	Automatic shutdown with over-temperature detection
LED Indicators	Power, protection, signal present indicators
Power Input	12V DC power connector
Gain Controls	Individual channel level adjustments
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz ±1dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	>90dB

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate mounting location.

Select mounting location: Ensure adequate ventilation and accessibility.
Connect power: Use appropriate gauge wire for 12V DC power connection.
Connect audio inputs: Use RCA cables for line-level inputs or speaker wires for high-level inputs.
Connect speakers: Match speaker polarity and impedance requirements.
Secure mounting: Use provided hardware to mount amplifier securely.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating. Use correct fuse rating for power connection.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; verify proper operation.

Power connection: Connect 12V DC power source with proper polarity.
Input selection: Choose between RCA or high-level inputs based on source.
Gain adjustment: Set initial gain controls to minimum position.
Crossover settings: Configure high-pass/low-pass filters as needed.
Test operation: Gradually increase volume to verify all channels working.

CAUTION! Always power off when making connections. Check all wiring before applying power.

Specifications

Channels: 5 independent amplification channels
Power Output: 10 watts RMS per channel @ 4 ohms
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.1% at rated power
Input Sensitivity: 200mV - 4V adjustable
Crossover Frequency: 80Hz - 2kHz adjustable
Power Requirements: 12V DC, 5A maximum
Dimensions: 8.5" x 6.5" x 2.25"
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 140°F (0°C to 60°C)
Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg)

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and side adjustment panels.

Front Panel: Power switch, LED status indicators (Power, Protection, Signal).

Side Panels: Gain controls per channel, crossover frequency adjustments, input level selectors, bass boost controls. Crossover: High-pass filter (50Hz-500Hz), Low-pass filter (50Hz-500Hz). Input Selection: RCA line-level or speaker-level inputs. Protection: Thermal, short-circuit, and over-current protection.

Connecting Devices

Multiple input options: RCA line-level, high-level speaker inputs.

Turn off power before making connections.
Source connection: Use RCA cables for head units or high-level inputs for factory systems.
Speaker connection: Match polarity and ensure proper impedance loading.
Power connection: Use appropriate gauge wire with proper fuse protection.
Ground connection: Secure to clean, bare metal surface.

Tip: Use twisted-pair cables for audio inputs to reduce noise interference.

Operation Modes

Supports various audio configurations and crossover settings.

Full-range mode: All channels operate full bandwidth.
Bi-amplification: Use crossovers for separate woofer/tweeter amplification.
Multi-channel: Independent control of each channel for surround applications.
Bridged mode: Combine channels for higher power output (specific models).
Mono mode: Sum inputs for mono amplification.

WARNING! Do not exceed recommended impedance ratings. Monitor temperature during extended operation.

Protection Features

Comprehensive protection circuitry: Thermal protection, short-circuit protection, over-current protection, DC offset detection, under-voltage lockout.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and free from dust accumulation. Ensure proper ventilation at all times.

CAUTION! Do not block ventilation openings. Use compressed air for cleaning internal components only when powered off.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check 12V power and ground connections; verify fuse integrity.
Protection mode active	Short circuit/overheating	Check speaker wiring for shorts; allow unit to cool; reset power.
Distorted audio	Gain settings/clipping	Reduce gain settings; check input signal levels; verify power supply.
No audio output	Input connection/settings	Verify input source; check input selection; test with known good source.
Overheating	Ventilation/impedance	Ensure adequate airflow; verify speaker impedance compatibility.

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

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