INTRODUCTION
The 2120 contains essentially four separate electronic components housed in a single chassis; a 120 watt RMS
mono amplifier to drive the Bass Vent subwoofer, a 120 watt RMS stereo amplifier, and two variable phase
coherent electronic crossovers. Streamlined installation, systems versatility, modular expandability, and phase coherency
are some of the key features that highlight the Model 2120.
Like all Linear Power amplifiers, the
2120 incorporates the Infinitely Variable Gain Adjustment which allows the user to match the amplifier
precisely to almost any deck on the market whether the output is pre-amp or speaker level. Follow the instructions in this
book under OPERATION/ADJUSTMENT for adjustment of the gain control.
The LINEAR POWER Model 2120 Bi-Amplifier employs a sophisticated design combining reliability,
high power, low distortion, and freedom from external noise. When properly installed, it will give long and faithful
service. When combined with other high quality components, it will be the heart of a superb system.
WE STRONGLY
RECOMMEND THAT THE INSTALLATION BE DONE BY A PROFESSIONAL AUTOSOUND INSTALLER.
| Main Amplifier: | 60 Watts per channel minimum continuous average power into four ohms. Both channels driven from 300Hz to 20KHz with no more than 0.15% total harmonic distortion. |
| Subwoofer Amplifier: | 120 watts minimum continuous average power output into two ohms, mono from 20Hz to 200Hz with no more than 0.15% total harmonic distortion. |
| Intermodulation Distortion: | 0.1% |
| Frequency Response: | -3dB from 12 to 150,000 Hertz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio: | 95dB or greater (A-Weight) |
| Slew Rate: | 13 volts per microsecond |
| Crossover Phase Shift: | +/- 2.8 degrees maximum |
| Current Draw: | 1.5 amperes at idle. 30 amperes at maximum RMS test conditions. |
| Input Signal for Maximum Power: | 0.2 volts at maximum gain setting. 5 volts at minimum gain setting. |
| Dynamic Headroom: | 2dB |
| Damping Factor: | 200 at all frequencies. |
| Dimensions: | 7 1/4" x 13 1/2" x 4 1/8" |

A. The High Pass Filter
This filter is screw driver adjustable with a continiously variable range from 300Hz to 1.7Hz. In the fully
counter-clockwise position, the stereo main amplifier is rolled off at 300Hz. This filter may only be activated when
switch "B" is moved in the direction of the filter or "TRI" position. When this filter is operational the
120 watt stereo amp becomes essentially a bandpass amplifier. A low level signal from phono plug set "H" provides
output above the selected crossover point of the high pass filter so that a second amplifier may be added to complete the
tri-amplified sound system.
B. The Operational Mode Activating Switch
The switch determines whether the 2120 will operate as a bi-amplifier or a modular tri-amp. Move this switch with a
small screwdriver in the direction of the filter you wish to activate. To the right, or "Bi" position, only the low pass
filter (C) is functional. To the left, both filters become operational.
C.The Low Pass Filter
Screw driver adjustable with a continuously variable range between 45 to 200 Hz. Fully counter-clockwise is 45Hz. With
the 2120 operating in the bi-amp mode, low level output is provided from plug set 'H' above the selected crossover
point of the low pass filter to beyond 20KHz. This feature allows any smaller Linear Power amplifier to power
'front fill' drivers in the automobile. With this type of application, the 'font fill' amplifier and speakers see no low
bass material. Cone distortion is drastically reduced, while efficiency is vastly increased.
D. Subwoofer Amplifier Gain
This control provides gain to the 120 watt mono subwoofer amplifier. Accentuation or attenuation of +-12dB is possible with
this control. The purpose of this control is to adjust the output of the subwoofer system relative to the efficiency of the
main speaker system.
E. Master Gain Control
This control is found on all Linear Power amplifiers. The master gain control matches the output of any deck to the
input of the 2120. Fully counter-clockwise if minimum gain. Proper adjustment procedure is found under
OPERATION/ADJUSTMENT.
F. 120 Watt Mono Subwoofer Output
To the Bass Vent or any other dual speaker subwoofer system, Grey=right(+), Green=left (+), Black is ground. The
mono output amplifier is internally paralleled to see a two ohm load when used with two, four ohm drivers. This is done for
higher current capability, and superior woofer control. For single subwoofer use, connect both the green and grey wires to
the speaker (+) and both black wires to speaker (-). The ideal configuration is two, 4 ohm woofers. When connected to a
single four ohm woofer full power will not be developed.
G.120 Watt Stereo Output
Grey = right (+), Green = left (+), Black = ground.
H. Low level Outputs
In bi-amp or tri-amp operation low level output (at unity gain) is always provided. In the bi-amp mode output from the
selected subwoofer crossover point to beyond 20KHz is provided to the output plugs. In the tri-amp mode, output is provided
above the selected crossover point of the high pass filter to beyond 20KHz.
I. Input Signal from Source Unit
Read the following instructions through completely. If they appear too complicated we recommend you have an authorized Linear Power dealer do the work.
1. The amplifier will work best if it is kept as cool as possible. Mount in a position that allows air to flow freely through the black fins. Be sure there is ample space above the amplifier. The amplifier should not be mounted upside down. Avoid mounting the amplifier in the dash or on the firewall to avoid noises being radiated directly into the case.
2. Mount your amplifier in a position that allows ample room for gain adjustments, and the installation, removal, and attachment of all leads.
3. The case of your amplifier is designed to act as a noise shield. To maintain this protection, be sure the metal case of the amp does not touch the metal of the car. Do not remove or damage the rubber grommets which provide electrical insulation and vibration isolation.
1. Fuse: A fuse of the proper size must be installed in line with the main power in order to prevent possible damage to the vehicles wiring. It should be connected to the battery positive terminal or as close to the battery as possible. Use the fuse holder and fuse provided and replace only with the same size and type of fuse. Use AGC 30. WARNING: OVERFUSING WILL DAMAGE THE AMPLIFIER.
2. Main Power: The free end of the fuse holder wire should be connected to the large RED wire from the amplifier. IMPORTANT: Solder all connections!
3. Main Ground: Connect the large BLACK wire directly to the battery negative terminal.
4. Remote Turn on: The RED and WHITE wire is not a main power source for the amplifier, but acts as an electrical switch to turn the amplifier on and off. It should be connected to the power antenna lead from the radio. Where no power lead exists, a source of +12 volts connected through a toggle switch will do. DO NOT CONNECT DIRECTLY TO A SOURCE THAT WILL LEAVE THE AMPLIFIER PERMANENTLY ON, AS THIS WILL DRAIN THE BATTERY.
5. Signal Input: The RCA (Phono) Jack inputs will accommodate either high or low level signals, ranging from 180mV to 5 volts. For use with a high level source that is intended to drive speakers directly, attach the speaker leads to male RCA plugs and insert into the inputs. NOTE: The positive speaker lead should always connect to the center pin of the RCA plug.
6. Speaker Outputs
(a). The speaker fanout connector on the left, marked 'sub', is a 120 watt mono output.
Connect the GREY wire to the
RIGHT speaker (+) terminal.
Connect the GREEN wire to the LEFT speaker (+) terminal.
Connect one of the BLACK wires to
the RIGHT speaker (-) terminal.
Connect the other BLACK wire to the LEFT speaker (-) terminal.
(b). The speaker
fanout connector on the right, marked 'main/mid-bass', is the stereo output.
Connect the GREY wire to the RIGHT
speaker (+) terminal.
Connect the GREEN wire to the LEFT speaker (+) terminal.
Connect one of the BLACK wires to the
RIGHT speaker (-) terminal.
Connect the other BLACK wire to the LEFT speaker (-) terminal.
DO NOT apply power to the system until the installation is complete, and the following steps 1 and 2 have been performed.
1. Be certain that all gain controls on each component have been turned down.
2. Set all crossovers a a point well within the defined frequency parameters of the drivers. The speaker manufacturer will supply frequency response data with their driver.
3. Apply power to the system. The Amp(s) will turn on after a slight delay. To properly adjust the
master gain control of the 2120 we suggest the following technique: Slowly turn the volume up on your source unit until
you hear it just start to distort, then back it down just below that point. That is a loud as you should ever play it for
quality sound. Now, slowly increase the master gain on the 2120 until either the speakers distort from excess power, or,
the amp distorts from input overload. At either point, slightly decrease the gain control on the amp and a perfect
input/output match has been achieved. After the master gain has been properly adjusted, use the same procedure
to adjust the sub-level control. Some source units with extremely low output levels will require a LINEAR POWER PA2
to boost the output to the necessary proper level.
NOTE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT THE GAIN CONTROL BE TURNED
AS FAR DOWN AS POSSIBLE IN ORDER THAT UNWANTED ENGINE NOISE BE KEPT TO A MINIMUM.
Now that the gain controls have been properly set, the system is ready to be "fine tuned".
Always tune a multi-amp/driver system from the bass up. In a bi-amp system, the subwoofer crossover should be varied until the smoothest low frequency response has been obtained.
Tri-amping is a more sophisticated process of sound reproduction and hence requires more time to properly design and fine tune. Keep in mind that a poorly designed tri-amplified sound system may yield lower sound quality than a well executed bi-amped system.
Unwanted noise is the worst single problem encountered in automotive amplifier installations. Several
basics must be kept in mind when preventing noise problems.
1. Use shielded cables whenever a preamp level music source
is used.
2. All connections must be tight and free from corrosion, paint, etc., and insulated.
3. Route all signal
cables away from existing wiring in the vehicle.
4. If possible, avoid mounting the amplifier in the dash or on the
firewall, as noise may be induced due to the proximity of noisy wiring and switches.
NO SOUND
Check all connections. Check main power fuse. Check assessory fuse. With a trouble
light or meter, be sure +12V is present at the amplifier on the large positive cable and on the small red/white turn-on
wire. Check for a good ground connection. Check by substitution or other method for proper operation of music source.
BLOWS FUSES
Check all connections to be sure all power wires and speaker wires do not touch
ground or each other. Re-check polarity of main power wires.
SHUTS OFF
As this amplifier is equipped with a thermal and a short circuit shut-down system,
in the unlikely event of excessive temperatures due to high ambient temperature or improper speaker impedance, the amp
will turn itself off. To avoid damage to the speakers, turn the volume to a minimum while waiting for the amp to turn
itself back on.