Support

Q: What happens on my stereo amplifier if my impedance loads don’t match?

A: One channel would be working harder than the other, but that’s all. Too often with PA systems you will have to load the amplifier channels differently. But all bi-aural Face Audio amplifiers can be driven as two separate mono amps.

Q: How do I tie the inputs of my amp together?

A: It is easily done with Face Audio amplifiers. Simply adjust the selector switch on the rear of the amplifier to the parallel mode. This will allow either inputs A or B to drive both channels.

Q: How many speakers can I plug into my amp?

A: This can be a long answer, but to keep it simple; each speaker has a load resistance usually given in ohms. When you add speakers in parallel, jumping one to another, it lowers the ohms by half (i.e. - adding two 8 ohms speakers is a 4 ohm load on the amp). So back to the question; if in the amplifier specs it gives you the wattage for a certain load (Ohms), it is safe to run the amp at that level per channel.

Q: When should I put my amplifier into Bridge/Mono mode?

A: Bridge/Mono mode allows a higher load (usually around 2ohms) to be handled more effectively by the amp. It puts the amplifier into a "push, pull" configuration, utilizing both sides of the amp into one single output. Our real answer here is that you should only run in bridged mode when you simply have no other choice. You should always choose the right amp for the load being placed on it. Sometimes, however, you get stuck in a situation requiring more power than you have at hand in stereo mode. Bridged mode can allow you more power handling capabilities in a pinch. We don’t recommend making it a habit.

Q: How do I set up my amp to run in Bridge/Mono mode?

A: It’s an easy 5 step process:

1. Step 1 Power the amplifier and the level controls down.
2. Step 2 Move the "Mode Selector switch" on the rear of the amp to the Bridge/Mono position.
3. Step 3 The Input signal should be connected to Channel A, leaving channel B blank.
4. Step 4 Attach the speaker leads to the red binding post (1+ and 2+). There is no connection to the black posts.
5. Step 5 Turn on the amp and adjust the volume using the channel A level control knob (Channel B will no longer respond).

Q: How high should I turn my level controls?

A: What we’re talking about is gain optimization. The easiest way to handle it is to drive the console to the unity/zero point then adjust the level controls to give you the level that you would consider show volume. This will allow for the best signal to noise ratio in your sound system.

Q: Are all 4 conductors wired in the Speakon® NL4 output?

A: No, the Speakon® connector is used because of its ease of use, and its common use in speakers. But only pins 1+ and 1- are connected on the back of the Face Audio amplifiers.

Q: How do I best keep my amplifiers cool during heavy operation?

A: All of the Face Audio amps are front to rear cooling. So by letting the amps have breathing room in front and in back you’re keeping your amps as cool as they can be. With our high capacitance ability per product, you can be fairly abusive with heat and keep running all night long. Face Audio for a reason!

Q: What size of wire do I use for my speakers with these amps?

A: There is no easy answer to this, but as a general rule for best results (less power loss) you should use the heaviest gauge wire as is practical, especially for the longer speaker runs. For short runs you could use lighter cable. But don’t let this be the weak link in your audio system.

Q: Are the XLR inputs, mic or line level inputs?

A: The XLR and the ¼ TRS are line level inputs

Q: Does the LED clip light truly indicate when my amplifier starts to clip the sine wave.

A: Yes, the indicator LED does light when the amplifier starts to square the wave off. You should never run it that hot. Major speaker damage can occur with the amplifier running at that extreme.

Q: Do I get double the sound with double the wattage?

A: No, wattage is a highly misunderstood term. In power handling terms to double the wattage would give you 3dB more sound. To double the perceived sound you would have to gain 10dB, which would be 10x the wattage (100 watts to 1000 watts)

Q: Where can I get my amplifier serviced if I need it looked at?

A: At an authorized Face Audio service center, or by returning it to the factory.

Q: What do I do when my amplifier won’t turn on?

A: This could be a couple of different things. First check to make sure that your NEMA power connector is fully seated into the rear of the amplifier. Next make sure it is plugged into a 120V / 60Hz power receptacle, and that the breaker is turned on. If those are both checked and your sure the outlet works, check to make sure the fuse on the rear of the amp is still working (refer to your owners manual for directions). If this doesn't work, please call your authorized Face Audio service center for additional help.

Q: Can I eat the silicon packet that comes conveniently in my amplifier box?

A: As much of a tasty treat that it appears to be, it is not safe to eat. It is there to ensure that the amplifier comes ready to use and free from any condensation that could occur during shipping. The addition of condiments will still not make them safe to munch on.