Installation manual

System with The Epicenter
Three-way System
Thru Output System with 4XS
If you’re also installing The Epicenter, it should come BEFORE the ESP-2 in
the signal path. Any equalizer or crossover should be AFTER the ESP-2.
A simple bi-amp system splits the full-range output of your deck into high and
low frequency bands and then routes them to separate amps. Because the ESP-2
works across the whole sound spectrum, it should be connected BEFORE the inputs
of the electronic crossover.
The ESP-2’s THRU connections. Along with the regular INPUTs and
OUTPUTs, there are left and right THRU sockets. These are really two more
OUTPUTs except that the ESP-2’s circuitry doesn’t effect their sound. This is so
you can drive other sets of speakers where you don’t want the spatial restoration
effect without resorting to “Y” cords.
Here’s an example using the 4XS where the ESP-2’s THRU outputs are also
used: For those of you contemplating really gonzoid monstro systems with the 4XS
or multiple combinations of crossovers and amps and signal processors, we suggest
you consult your dealer or us here in the rainforest. There are billions and billions
of possibilities.
Type of wire. It is extremely important to use high quality cables for the audio
signal wiring. Intense electromagnetic fields are generated in an automobile which
can be picked up by car stereo wiring. The increased low level wiring present when
using electronic signal processing and powerful amplifiers increases the chances of
creating an “antenna” which feeds this interference directly into your system.
There it can compete with your music as audible clicking, whining, ticking and
buzzing.
Theoretically, all RCA-type coax cables (like the ones you use to hook up your
home stereo) are shielded to prevent interference. Unfortunately, cheapoid cables
skimp on external shielding, since interference is not a problem in most home hi-fi
hook-ups. Avoid the temptation to simply use “that old set of patch cords that came
with my receiver” or super-cheap cables sold as accessories in TV or hardware
stores. Consult with your AudioControl dealer to obtain high quality, well-shielded
cables with securely fitting connectors on each end. For installations such as the
“gonzoid system” example, you might even consider use of special audiophile hook-
up cables designed for high-end autosound use. Remember, it’s better to invest in
good cables before installation, rather than try to trace interference once inferior
cables are buried deep in your car’s interior.
Audio wiring placement. Unlike speaker cables, which can be routed directly
next to existing car wiring, we recommend that you route line level (coaxial) wiring
between the head unit and the ESP-2 away from car wiring, amplifier power cables
or speaker wires, if possible. This will help avoid noise induction problems,
especially when you’re running cables from the head unit all the way back to the
car’s trunk.
Also keep connections between the ESP-2 and power amplifiers as short as
possible to further minimize noise problems.
The one exception to these precautions is the remote wire between the ESP-2
main unit and the remote Restoration Control. It only carries control voltages, not
an audio signal and is not prone to interference. Just make sure it doesn’t rub
against anything or is otherwise violated along the way.
Actual audio connections. After all this preface, there really isn’t much to say.
The signal from the head unit goes into the INPUT sockets on the ESP-2. Outputs to
the equalizer take off of the OUTPUTS. Make sure these connections are really snug.
If you need another set of outputs for speakers like subwoofers or rear satellites where
you don’t want ambient effects, use the THRU output sockets.
- page 9 - - page 8 -