Owner’s manual & Installation manual

Bedienungs- und Installationsanleitung

Руководство по эксплуатации и установке
Manual de instrucciones y de instalación
Manuale utente e guida di installazione
Mode d’emploi et manuel d’installation

XR2220
XR2420
XR2120

XR AMPLIFIERS
XR-VERSTÄRKER
XR УСИЛИТЕЛИ
AMPLIFICADORES XR
AMPLIFICATORI XR
AMPLIFICATEURS XR
Thank you for purchasing this Clarion product.
 Please read this owner’s manual in its entirety before operating this equipment.
 After reading this manual, keep it handy, such as in your glove compartment.
 Save your sales receipt. The warranty at the end of this manual and your sales receipt
are essential for warranty service

CONTENTS
1. FEATURES......................................................................................................................3
2. PRECAUTIONS ...............................................................................................................4
Installation........................................................................................................................4
3. CONTROLS.....................................................................................................................5
4. OPERATIONS .................................................................................................................6
Setting the operating level ...............................................................................................6
Improving bass sound......................................................................................................6
Designing a more advanced system ................................................................................6
Connecting a source unit without RCA outputs ................................................................6
Care and maintenance.....................................................................................................7
5. INSTALLATION AND WIRING ........................................................................................7
What is included in the box ..............................................................................................7
Mounting precautions.......................................................................................................7
Wiring precautions ...........................................................................................................8
Power and speaker connections ......................................................................................9
Applications ...................................................................................................................10
Setting the gain ..............................................................................................................13
Setting the crossover .....................................................................................................14
Setting the bass boost ...................................................................................................14
Final system checks.......................................................................................................14
6. TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................................15
No Audio ........................................................................................................................15
Audio cycles on and off..................................................................................................15
Distorted audio...............................................................................................................15
Amplifier fuse keeps blowing .........................................................................................15
Whining or ticking noise when engine on.......................................................................15
7. GLOSSARY ...................................................................................................................16
8. SPECIFICATIONS .........................................................................................................16

2 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
1. FEATURES
The Clarion XR2220, XR2420, and XR2120 amplifiers fit a variety of system configurations
and provide these features:
 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.
 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.

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 3
2. PRECAUTIONS
 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 re quires experience with a variety of
mechanical and electrical procedures. Although this manual provides general installation
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.

4 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
3. CONTROLS

XR2120 controls and input connections

XR2420 controls and input connections

XR2220 controls and input connections

1. RCA input jacks 9. Front speaker level 14. Front X-Over mode
2. Front RCA input jacks inputs switch
3. Rear RCA input jacks 10. Rear speaker level 15. Rear frequency control
4. Gain control inputs 16. Rear X-Over mode
5. Front level control 11. Frequency control switch
6. Rear level control 12. X-Over mode switch 17. Status indicator light
7. Bass boost control 13. Front frequency control
8. Speaker level inputs

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 5
4. OPERATIONS

Setting the operating level

The gain controls allow you to set the nominal operating level of the amplifier from 200mV
to 5.5V for RCA inputs or 400mV to 11V 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 50Hz.
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 30Hz and 300Hz (50-300Hz
on the XR2120). 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 (XR2420 and XR2220 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.

6 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
Care and maintenance

Cleaning the product

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe dust and dirt from the unit.

Do not use window cleaners, household cleaners, aerosol sprays, solvents, alcohol,
ammonia, or other cleaners. These substances may damage the unit.

Servicing the product

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 approval.

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:

 Amplifier  (4) Washers
 High-level speaker input harness  (4) Lock washers
 (4) Self tapping screws  (1) Replacement fuse

Mounting precautions

If you lack the necessary skills, do not install the amplifier yourself. See your authorized
Clarion dealer for installation recommendations.

 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.

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 7
 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.
 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, brake 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.

 Extra cable can cause signal loss and act as an antenna for noise. Use only highquality
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.

 When routing RCA cables, keep the cables away from the power cables and out put
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.
 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.

8 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
Power and speaker connections

XR2120 power and speaker connections

XR2420 power and speaker connections

XR2220 power and speaker connections

1. Mono speaker output 6. Left front speaker output

2. Ground input 7. Right front speaker output
3. Remote turn-on input 8. Left rear speaker output
4. Battery +12V input 9. Right rear speaker output
5. Fuse

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 9
Applications

The XR2120 car audio ampifier can be used in a variety of system applications.

Mono subwoofer system

This application shows the amplifier in mono operation to drive a subwoofer.

Subwoofer

Set X-Over mode to LPF and adjust the frequency to the subwoofer specifications.

10 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
Subwoofer system
In this application, the amplifier is used in a subwoofer system.

Subwoofer Subwoofer

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 11
Four-channel stereo system
In this application, the XR2420 is used as a four-channel amplifier to drive four full-range
speakers in stereo.

12 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
Two-channel high power system
In this application, the XR2220 is used to drive a pair of subwoofers.

Subwoofer Subwoofer

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 music content 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.

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 13
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. nitially 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. (Please make sure vehicle is outdoors or
has adequate ventilation for exhaust fumes)
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.

14 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
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.

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 15
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.

XR2420

Maximum power output 480W

Continuous rated power * 60W x 4
Typical power in bridged mode ** 180W x 2
Typical power in 2 Ohm load ** 90W x 4
IM distortion ≤ 0.1%
S/N (A-weighted) ≥ 80dB
Channel separation ≥ 60dB
Frequency response 20Hz-30kHz full range
Line level input sensitivity 200mV to 5.5 Volts
Speaker level input sensitivity 400mV to 11 Volts
Input impedance 22kOhm
Allowable battery voltage 9.6 to 15.6 Volts
Size (W x L x H) 14” (354mm) x 8-1/2” (217mm) x 2-3/16”
(55mm)

* THD - ≤ 1%, 20Hz-20kHz, into 4 Ohms, @14.4V, all channels driven

** THD ≤ -1%, 20Hz-20kHz, @14.4V, all channels driven

16 XR2220/XR2420/XR2120
XR2220

Maximum power output 280W

Continuous rated power * 65W x 2
Typical power in bridged mode ** 190W x 1
Typical power in 2 Ohm load ** 95W x 2
IM distortion ≤ 0.1%
S/N (A-weighted) ≥ 85dB
Channel separation ≥ 60dB
Frequency response 20Hz-30kHz
Line level input sensitivity 200mV to 5.5 Volts
Speaker level input sensitivity 400mV to 11 Volts
Input impedance 22kOhm
Allowable battery voltage 9.6 to 15.6 Volts
Size (W x L x H) 11-5/8” (295mm) x 8-1/2” (217mm) x
2-3/16” (55mm)

* THD - ≤ 1%, 20Hz-20kHz, into 4 Ohms, @14.4V, all channels driven

** THD ≤ -1%, 20Hz-20kHz, @14.4V, all channels driven

XR2120

Maximum power output 570W

Continuous rated power * 280W x 1
Typical power in bridged mode ** N/A
Typical power in 2 Ohm load ** 400W x 1
IM distortion ≤ 0.1%
S/N (A-weighted) ≥ 70dB
Channel separation Mono
Frequency response 20Hz-30kHz
Line level input sensitivity 200mV to 5.5 Volts
Speaker level input sensitivity 400mV to 11 Volts
Input impedance 22kOhm
Allowable battery voltage 9.6 to 15.6 Volts
Size (W x L x H) 14” (354mm) x 8-1/2” (217mm) x 2-3/16”
(55mm)

* THD - ≤ 1%, 20Hz-20kHz, into 4 Ohms, @14.4V, all channels driven

** THD ≤ -1%, 20Hz-20kHz, @14.4V, all channels driven

XR2220/XR2420/XR2120 17
 Clarion Europe S.A.S.
Z.I. du Pré à Varois, Route de Pompey, 54670 Custines, FRANCE

Clarion Co., Ltd.

All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 2012: Clarion Co., Ltd.
Printed in China / Gedruckt in China / Напечатано в Китае
Impreso en China / Stampato in Cina / Imprimé en Chine