Features
Controls
Connections
Features
Boosted Rail Technology: The PBR500x1 uses Boosted Rail
Technology (BRT), an efficient design that doesn't use a switching power supply.
The PBR500x1's average efficiency is more than 75%, meaning it doesn't generate
much heat and can maintain a small footprint.
Power Output: The power output increases as impedance is
reduced:
- 4Ω: 175 watts RMS
- 2Ω: 300 watts RMS
- 1Ω: 500 watts RMS
Signal Input: The PBR500x1 is compatible with either
line-level (RCA) or speaker-level inputs. The included Molex-to-RCA is used
in both cases; the RCA end is cut off for connection to speaker wires.
Auto Turn-on: When using speaker-level inputs the amp will
automatically turn on when it senses an input signal (4 volt minimum). The
threshold voltage (DC offset) for auto turn-on is adjustable from 4 volts to
6 volts. This circuit is only active when the Input Level switch is set to High
(speaker-level).
Dynamic Thermal Management (DTM): DTM Evenly distributes excess
heat across the entire extruded aluminum heatsink.
MEHSA³: MEHSA³ (Maximum Efficiency Heat Sink Application-Third
Generation) is a Rockford Fosgate proprietary process that increases the heat transfer
from the MOSFET devices to the heatsink. The multi-layer insulated metal MEHSA substrate
operates with minimal thermal resistance, spreading heat both downward and outward to
quickly dissipate heat from each device across the heatsink. This allows greater power
output, enhanced thermal stability, and maximum reliability.
NOMAD: NOMAD (NOn-Multiplying Advanced Decision) is an intelligent
protection circuit that uses an analog computer to make real time decisions regarding
temperature, voltage, current and impedance. The unit is protected without limiting
sound output unless needed.
DSM (Discrete Surface Mount): In the manufacturing process
high speed robotics are used to place 1% tolerance parts and large board traces.
DSM improves the efficiency of the circuit, decreases cross-talk from other discrete
components and lowers operating temperature.
LEDs: The Power/Protect LED on the right side of the amp
illuminates blue when the amp is turned on and operating normally; it illuminates
red when one of the protection circuits has engaged (short circuit, impedance too
low, or temperature too high). The BRT LED on the left side of the amp illuminates
white when the boost mode is engaged.
Controls
Crossover: The amplifier's internal low-pass crossover is
continuously variable from 35 Hz to 250 Hz; the slope is 12 dB/octave.
Gain: When using line-level inputs, the input gain is adjustable
from 150mV to 4V, when using speaker-level inputs it's adjustable from 400mV to 11V.
Input Level: Use the 2-position switch to select the input
voltage range; High (speaker-level) or Low (line-level).
DC Offset: The DC offset threshold voltage for the auto turn-on
circuit is adjustable from 4 volts to 6 volts (feature only active when the Input
Level switch is set to High).
Connections
Power Connections: The power, ground, and remote turn-on
terminals are c-clamps on a removable plug. Each terminal will accommodate up
to 8-gauge wire (Rockford recommends 8-gauge minimum for the power and ground
wires). A flat blade screwdriver (not supplied) is required to tighten/loosen the
terminals. There is no fuse on the body of the amp, so an external 80-amp fuse
(not included) must be installed in the power wire. If a wiring kit is used that
includes a different value fuse, the original should be replaced with a 80-amp
fuse.
Signal Input: The included input harness has a Molex plug
on one end (plugs into the amp) and female RCA plugs on the other. When using
speaker-level inputs the RCA end is removed and the four individual wires are
used.
Speaker Output: The speaker outputs are c-clamps on a removable plug. Each terminal will accommodate up to 8-gauge wire
Remote Punch EQ (PEQ): An RJ-45 jack is provided
for connecting an optional remote PEQ control (575ROCKPEQ, sold separately). When connected the PEQ acts as a variable bass
boost; 0-18 dB centered at 45 Hz.
Note: Older model (prior to 2007) Punch
Bass and Para-Punch remotes will not work with this amp.