How to set gain on Exile Javelin 5 Channel Class D Amplifier
This post is part of a video series on youtube. Be sure to watch the video(s) and read all information below, BEFORE you ask questions or make comments. This is a DIY site. We make every attempt to provide the information you will need to perform your own installation. Questions / comments that are clearly answered in the videos/posts will be deleted. If we missed something that you think will be helpful or will make it easier to understand please feel free to comment below.
Per the video, the calculator below will help you to find the correct voltage for setting the gain on your EXILE JAVELIN amplifier. This video will work or most amps, however to assist our customer base we try to provide as much specific information as possible.
Ok, so if you are ready to set the gain on your amp. You have already completed the following videos / steps:
1. How to select a head unit.
2. How to add an amplifier to my stock head unit.
3. How to install power and speaker wiring in your Toyota Tacoma.
4. How to select speakers that fit my Toyota Tacoma.
5. How to select amplifier for my Toyota Tacoma.
6. How to wire a subwoofer.
7. How to get the actual “load” from your speakers / subs.
Tools / items needed to set the gain:
1. Digital Multi-Meter –
2. Audio Test Tones – Available on this page
3. Small Screwdriver to adjust gain knob.
4. Voltage Calculator (see below)
5. The performance (birth) sheet for your amp.
Per the video, the best way to set the gain on your amplifier is by using an oscilloscope. However, an inexpensive digital multimeter (DMM) is a great alternative. The voltage calculator below will help you to set your gain.
Most amplifiers will include a “birth sheet”. The birth sheet includes actual output numbers when the amp was tested at the factory. Most quality amplifier companies will provide the RMS output. The current model of the Javelin Exile Amp is rated at
PIC of Birth-sheet
Specs:
85 watts x 4 to each speaker
500 watts x 1
Setting the gain on the speaker channel.
The amp is rated at 80 watts. Using the calculator below, enter the voltage of your Toyota. You can use the DMM to get the actual voltage.If you purchased our amp kit, we include an on-board voltmeter.
Head unit:
We need to figure out the maximum volume for our head unit. In about 85% of the cases we found most head units will start to “clip” the signal at around 80% of the volume. When the signal begins to clip, it will send distortion to the speakers / subs. Once we know the maximum volume setting, keep in mind this will be the maximum volume you should turn your stereo. NOTE: Some music is recorded at different levels and the quality of music will play a role in the volume. In some cases the the max volume will fluctuate a little bit.
Turn on the car and note the voltage.
Connect the DMM to channel 1 on amplifier.
FAQ:
What is gain?
The amplifier gain is used to match the output of the head unit to the amplifier. The maximum audio output voltage from different head units will vary by brand / models. Without a gain control, most head units may not be able drive the amplifier to full power.
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Most videos providing instructions that use a DMM for amp tuning are only providing a small part of the information required to properly set your gains using a DMM. To accurately set your gain(s) you must consider some of the factors that affect the correctl DMM voltage you need to have.
Per the video, the additional calculations below might be considered “splitting hairs” but we like to arm our customers with as much knowledge as possible. With that said; keep in mind:
1. Most amps are bench tested using 14.4 volts. However, most cars do not produce that much voltage.
2. Most people are assuming the speaker(s) / sub(s) are actually providing the “stated” load. For example, most people assume that their speakers are 4 ohm load.
These two factors will affect your final output. Below we will show you how to get more accurate numbers to apply to your amp.