Wāvtech linkQ

Features

Overview: The linkQ is an active 2-channel line output converter designed for adding aftermarket an amplifier to a factory radio. The linkQ also has line level inputs, so it can be used as a line driver with an aftermarket radio.

Speaker Input: The speaker level inputs are compatible with most factory stereo systems. They will accommodate up 40 volts RMS per channel (equivalent to 400 watts at 4Ω). The balanced-differential input design minimizes the possibility of having noise induced into the signal.

Load Detect Compatible: The speaker inputs are loaded to simulate the factory system seeing a speaker. If a lower impedance is needed, the linkLD external parallel load can be added to the speaker inputs.

Output Level: The 10 volt RMS maximum allows you to adjust output voltage to the top of your amp's input range.

Clip Indicator: An onboard LED indicates when the output signal is too high and is clipping, making it easy to maximize the output levels without distortion.

Auto Turn-on: The speaker level inputs have a DC-offset circuit, and both the speaker level and RCA inputs have a signal sensing circuit. The linkQ turns on when there's an input signal and turns off when the signal disappears. There is also a +12 volt remote turn-on input and the auto turn-on circuits can be disabled.

Equalizer: The linkQ has a single band parametric EQ in the bass range. The frequency range is adjustable from 30 Hz to 80 Hz and the boost from 0 dB to +12 dB.

Remote: The included wired remote is designed to be dash mounted, within reach of the driver; the housing can be mounted under the dash, or the housing can be removed and the knob and LED can be custom mounted through the dash.

Remote Dimensions:

• Width: 1½" (2⅜" including mounting tabs)
• Height: 1⅛"
• Depth: 1¾" (3" including knob and wire)

Ground Isolation: The internal audio signal ground is switchable, in case of ground loop noise. The factory position is chassis ground (typically the best choice), but can be changed to 200Ω or ISO (isolated).

Terminal Blocks: The power/ground/remote-in/remote-out terminal and the speaker level inputs are removable Phoenix terminals (Euroblock). The wiring is attached to the block, then the block is plugged into the linkQ. The terminal blocks will accommodate wire up to 16-gauge.

Connections:

• Power: removable 4-pin Phoenix terminal
  • Ground: minimum 18-gauge wire recommended
  • +12 volts: minimum 18-gauge wire recommended with a 1-amp fuse (not included)
  • Remote In: unit turns on when +12 volts applied to this terminal
  • Remote Out: +12 volt output when unit is on (used to turn on amp, 500 mA max)
• Speaker Level Inputs: removable 4-pin Phoenix terminal
• Line Inputs: stereo RCA jacks
• Line Outputs: stereo RCA jacks
• Remote: RJ-45 jack for included wired remote control

Controls:

• Gain: rotary dial
• Bass EQ:
  • EQ: 2-position switch; on/off
  • Frequency: rotary dial; variable from 30-80 Hz
  • Boost: rotary dial; variable from 0 dB to +12 dB
• Ground Reference: three jumper positions; ground (factory setting), ISO, or 200Ω
• Remote: rotary knob; output attenuation variable from 0 dB to -30 dB

Hidden Controls: There are several jumper pins inside the linkQ chassis, to make adjustments that are not typically necessary:

• Speaker Level Input Sensitivity Range: The 2-position jumpers are set to 2-20 volts RMS (factory setting) or 4-40 volts RMS. (There is a separate jumper for each channel.)
• RCA Input: The 2-position jumpers are set to Balanced (factory setting) or Unbalanced. (There are separate jumpers for the left and right channels.)
• Auto Turn-on: The DC-offset and audio signal sensing circuits can be independently turned off. The factory setting for both is on. When either jumper is removed, that circuit is disabled.

Specifications:

• Frequency response:
  • +0/-1 dB: 10 Hz-60 kHz
  • +0/-3 dB: 5 Hz-100 kHz
• Input Impedance:
  • Speaker input: 180 Ω
  • RCA input: 20 kΩ
• Input Sensitivity:
  • Speaker input: 2-40 volts RMS
  • RCA input: 0.5-5 volts RMS
• Output Impedance: 50 Ω
• Maximum Output Voltage: 10 volts RMS
• THD+N: 0.05% (at 10 volts output)
• S/N:
  • Speaker input:
    • 1 volt output: 93 dBA
    • 4 volt output: 105 dBA
    • 10 volt output: 113 dBA
  • RCA input:
    • 1 volt output: 95 dBA
    • 4 volt output: 107 dBA
    • 10 volt output: 115 dBA
• Current Draw:
  • Operating: 220mA (without remote out)
  • Standby: 2mA
• Dimensions:
  • Width: 4⅛" (4⅝" including cables)
  • Height: 1¼"
  • Depth: 3½"