Directed D1200 Manual

The Directed D1200 is a high-performance 1200-watt monoblock car amplifier designed for superior audio quality and power delivery. Featuring advanced MOSFET power supply, variable low-pass crossover, bass boost control, remote bass level control capability, 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 Guidelines 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-current MOSFET power supply, Variable low-pass crossover, Bass boost control, Remote turn-on capability, Comprehensive protection circuitry.

FeatureDescription
Power Output1200 watts RMS at 1 ohm
MOSFET Power SupplyHigh-efficiency design for clean power
Low-Pass CrossoverVariable 50-250 Hz
Bass Boost0-18 dB at 45 Hz
Remote Bass ControlOptional remote level adjustment
Input Sensitivity200mV-6V adjustable
Signal-to-Noise Ratio>100 dB
Frequency Response10-250 Hz
ProtectionThermal, short-circuit, overload
Dimensions12.5" x 9.5" x 2.25"

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose proper mounting location.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal first for safety.
  2. Mount amplifier: Secure to solid surface with proper ventilation.
  3. Connect power: Run 4-gauge power cable from battery to amp.
  4. Connect ground: Use short 4-gauge cable to solid chassis point.
  5. Connect RCA cables: Route from head unit to amplifier inputs.
  6. Connect speakers: Use appropriate gauge speaker wire.
  7. Connect remote turn-on: Connect to head unit remote wire.

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

First-Time Setup

Reconnect battery and power on system; adjust settings gradually.

  1. Set input sensitivity: Start with minimum setting, adjust with music playing.
  2. Set low-pass crossover: Adjust to match speaker capabilities.
  3. Set bass boost: Start at minimum, increase gradually if needed.
  4. Test operation: Verify all connections and functionality.
  5. Fine-tune settings: Make final adjustments for optimal sound.

CAUTION! Do not set gains too high to avoid distortion and damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel knobs and switches.

Front Panel: Input Sensitivity, Low-Pass Frequency, Bass Boost, Phase Switch.

Input Sensitivity: Adjust from 200mV to 6V to match head unit output. Low-Pass Crossover: Variable 50-250 Hz for subwoofer applications. Bass Boost: 0-18 dB boost at 45 Hz frequency. Phase Switch: 0° or 180° phase adjustment. Remote Bass: Optional remote control input.

Connecting Devices

Power: 4-gauge power and ground cables. Audio: RCA inputs from head unit. Speakers: Appropriate gauge speaker wire.

  1. Disconnect battery before making connections.
  2. Use proper gauge wiring for power and speakers.
  3. Route RCA cables away from power wires to avoid noise.
  4. Ensure solid ground connection to vehicle chassis.
  5. Connect remote turn-on to head unit blue wire.

Tip: Use crimp connectors and heat shrink for reliable connections.

Operation Guidelines

Designed for subwoofer applications and low-frequency reproduction.

  1. Power on sequence: Head unit first, then amplifier.
  2. Adjust volume: Start low, increase gradually to desired level.
  3. Monitor temperature: Ensure adequate ventilation during operation.
  4. Use bass control: Adjust bass boost sparingly to avoid distortion.
  5. Power off sequence: Amplifier first, then head unit.

WARNING! Do not operate without proper load impedance. Avoid clipping.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatically reduces output if overheating detected. Short-Circuit Protection: Shuts down if output short detected. Overload Protection: Protects against excessive current draw. DC Offset Protection: Prevents DC voltage at outputs.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use liquids for cleaning. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower/ground connectionsCheck battery connection; verify ground; check fuse.
Protection modeShort circuit/overheatingCheck speaker wires; ensure proper impedance; allow cooling.
No soundInput/RCA connectionsVerify RCA cables; check head unit settings; adjust input sensitivity.
Distorted soundGain settings/clippingReduce input sensitivity; check head unit volume; verify power supply.
OverheatingInsufficient ventilationImprove airflow; check impedance load; reduce bass boost.

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

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

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