Behringer EUROPOWER EP4000/EP2000 - Stereo Power Amplifier Manual

Important Safety Instructions

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK!
DO NOT OPEN!

Terminals marked with this symbol carry electrical current of sufficient magnitude to constitute risk of electric shock.
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with ¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. All other installation or modification should be performed only by qualified personnel.

This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.

This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature. Please read the manual.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the top cover (or the rear section). No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain and moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing liquids and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

These service instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operation instructions. Repairs have to be performed by qualified service personnel.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
    
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
    

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND APPEARANCES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND ACCURACY IS NOT GUARANTEED. BEHRINGER IS PART OF THE MUSIC GROUP (MUSIC-GROUP.COM). ALL TRADEMARKS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. MUSIC GROUP ACCEPTS NO LIABILITY FOR ANY LOSS WHICH MAY BE SUFFERED BY ANY PERSON WHO RELIES EITHER WHOLLY OR IN PART UPON ANY DESCRIPTION, PHOTOGRAPH OR STATEMENT CONTAINED HEREIN. COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS MAY VARY FROM ACTUAL PRODUCT. MUSIC GROUP PRODUCTS ARE SOLD THROUGH AUTHORIZED FULLFILLERS AND RESELLERS ONLY. FULLFILLERS AND RESELLERS ARE NOT AGENTS OF MUSIC GROUP AND HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO AUTHORITY TO BIND MUSIC GROUP BY ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED UNDERTAKING OR REPRESENTATION. THIS MANUAL IS COPYRIGHTED. NO PART OF THIS MANUAL MAY BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL, INCLUDING PHOTOCOPYING AND RECORDING OF ANY KIND, FOR ANY PURPOSE, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MUSIC GROUP IP LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

© 2011 MUSIC Group IP Ltd.
Trident Chambers, Wickhams Cay, P.O. Box 146,
Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Introduction

Thank you for choosing a BEHRINGER EUROPOWER amplifier. This piece of high-end gear was developed for professional use in live applications, and its many features make it a useful and dependable part of your sound system.

The EUROPOWER amps feature an input filter for each channel, enabling you to remove the low-frequency portion of the signal, if desired. Additionally, there is a limiter that protects your loudspeakers. Various operating modes, such as parallel or mono-bridged mode, open up various possibilities for effective implementation with the rest of your audio equipment for almost any application.

This manual first describes the controls and connection points so that you fully understand the EUROPOWER amplifier and its functions. Then it delves into the various applications where the EUROPOWER amp can be used, and finishes with more details on installing and making the connections to the amplifier.

Have fun with your new amplifier.

Before you get started

Shipment

Your EUROPOWER was carefully packed at the factory, and the packaging is designed to protect the unit from rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred during transit.

• If the unit is damaged, please do NOT return it to BEHRINGER, but notify your dealer and the shipping company immediately. Otherwise, claims for damage or replacement may not be granted.

Initial operation

Please make sure the unit is provided with sufficient ventilation, and never place your EUROPOWER amp on top of other heat-emanating equipment or in the vicinity of a heater to avoid the risk of overheating.

The mains connection is made via the enclosed power cord and a standard IEC receptacle. It meets all international safety certification requirements.

• Please make sure that all units have a proper ground connection. For your own safety, never remove or disable the ground conductor from the unit or the AC power cord.
• The sound quality may diminish within the range of powerful broadcasting stations and high-frequency sources. Increase the distance between the transmitter and the device and use shielded cables for all connections.

Online registration

Please register your new BEHRINGER equipment right after your purchase by visiting http://behringer.com and read the terms and conditions of our warranty carefully.

Should your BEHRINGER product malfunction, it is our intention to have it repaired as quickly as possible. To arrange for warranty service, please contact the BEHRINGER retailer from whom the equipment was purchased. Should your BEHRINGER dealer not be located in your vicinity, you may directly contact one of our subsidiaries. Corresponding contact information is included in the original equipment packaging (Global Contact Information/European Contact Information). Should your country not be listed, please contact the distributor nearest you. A list of distributors can be found in the support area of our website (http://behringer.com).

Registering your purchase and equipment with us helps us process your repair claims more quickly and efficiently.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Control Elements

Front panel

Front panel control elements

Since control elements of both the EP2000 and the EP4000 are identical, we have used the EP2000 as the model represented in the illustrations to assure simplicity.

1. The MAIN SWITCH is used to power up the amp.

• Merely switching the unit off does not mean that it is fully disconnected from the mains. When not using the unit for prolonged periods of time, please unplug the unit's power cord from the power outlet.

2. VENTILATION openings are located at the front of the unit, so that hot air is prevented from being trapped inside the unit, thus causing faulty operation or even damage.
3. The CLIP LED lights up when the signal is distorted. Should distortion occur, reduce the input level, so that the CLIP LED stops lighting up.
4. The SIGNAL LED lights up as long as a signal is present at the input.
5. The GAIN control (channels 1 and 2) is used for setting up the input gain.
6. The POWER LED lights up as soon as the unit is powered up.

Rear panel

Rear panel control elements

7. These are the balanced XLR inputs (channels 1 and 2).
8. These are the stereo ¼" TRS inputs (channels 1 and 2). They can also be used with unbalanced plugs.
9. These are the MODE switches, used to alter the operating modes as well as to set the limiters and high-pass filters.
10. The unit's fan is located here. Fan speed adjusts automatically to assure trouble-free operation.

• To prevent faulty operation, please assure that the unit is kept at a distance from other appliances emanating heat.

11. These are the SPEAKER OUTPUTS (channels 1 and 2). When running the unit in mono-bridged mode, please use the channel 1 output exclusively.
12. These are the OUTPUT TERMINALS (channels 1 and 2). When running in mono, please make sure to use both middle connectors to connect your loudspeaker.
13. BREAKER (automated fuse). After eliminating the cause of faulty operation, simply depress the BREAKER and power up the unit again. The BREAKER acts in place of common discardable fuses.

• Before engaging the BREAKER switch, you should power down the unit (POWER switch set to OFF)!

14. POWER is supplied via an IEC connector. The matching cable is provided with the unit.
15. SERIAL NUMBERof your EUROPOWER.
16. Here you can find a detailed overview of the individual MODE SWITCHES functions ).

Configuration switches (MODE SWITCHES)

Dip-switches

Clip limiter

When the input signal connected to your amp is too high, you end up with a distorted output signal. To prevent this, both channels of your EUROPOWER feature a clip limiter that can be engaged or disengaged selectively. The limiters automatically recognize distortion and lower amplification until distortion is reduced to a tolerable level. To preserve the dynamic characteristics of the signal when low distortion levels are occurring, the clip limiters function with moderate suppression. Use switches 1 (ch. 1) and 10 (ch. 2) to activate the clip limiters.

When using broadband loudspeaker systems, the clip limiter reduces high frequency distortions which occur when an amplifier is overloaded. The drivers are thus protected from being damaged.

Input filter

The LF (high-pass) filter removes frequencies below 30 and 50 Hz respectively. The reproduction of the signal's bass portion is thus optimized, since ultra-low, distracting frequencies are eliminated, and more power is available for the reproduction of the wanted segment of the signal. Engaging and disengaging the filters is done by using the switches 3 (ch. 1) and 8 (ch. 2). Switches 2 (ch. 1) and 9 (ch. 2) determine the cut-off frequency. As long as the filter is disengaged, frequencies below 5 Hz are cut to prevent damage.

You should set up the filters so they best suit the frequency response of your speakers, since some speakers (e.g. bass reflex speakers) are particularly sensitive to over-excursion below the listed frequency range.

The 50 Hz filter should be engaged when using broadband speakers because the filter provides a moderate amplification in the 100-Hz range, resulting in a fuller sound. The 30 Hz filter is ideally suited for subwoofer operation as well as for broadband cabinets. The "Off" setting should be used only for special applications (e.g. studio applications), in which recognizing and subsequently removing infra-sound is important.

2-channel mode (Stereo)

Both channels of your amp function independently from one another in this operating mode, and each has its own input signal. Two independent speakers are connected at the outputs. To activate this operating mode, please set the MODE SWITCHES 4 and 5 to "STEREO".

• When running the unit in two-channel mode, the switches for mono-bridged mode must be disengaged (dip switches 6 and 7 in left position).

Parallel mode

Running in parallel mode enables you to feed a signal via one of the inputs into both outputs. Each channel drives its own loudspeaker with independent amplification, filter and limit characteristics. To link the inputs, set the MODE SWITCHES 4 and 5 to "PARALLEL INPUTS".

• Mono-bridged mode switches must be disengaged when running in parallel mode.

With inputs set to parallel, you can use the remaining input connectors to feed the signal into additional amplifiers. This means that the channel 2 inputs function as outputs.

The parallel mode is well-suited for applications in which driving two speakers with the same signal but with separate amplification, filter and limiter settings is desired.

Mono-bridged mode

This operating mode enables you to add up the respective voltage of both channels and use it to drive a single loudspeaker. The voltage is therefore doubled, the peak power is quadrupled, and program power is roughly three times as high as that of the individual channels. The input, output, gain, filter and limiter controls belonging to channel 1 are used when running in mono-bridged mode. The controls belonging to channel 2 are not used. To prevent signal cancellation due to internal phase inversion, the GAIN control belonging to channel 2 must be turned to its left-most position.

Use this operating mode to route the power from both channels to a single 8-Ohm or 4-Ohm load. To do so, set up the switches 6 and 7 to "BRIDGE MODE ON". To use the binding posts as your output, you MUST use the two middle posts only.

• The mono-bridged mode puts added demands on amplifier and speakers. Excessive distortion may occasionally completely mute the amp's outputs as well as cause permanent damage to the speakers. Please assure that your speakers (minimal impedance 4 Ohms) as well as the cables used can handle the extra power generated in this mode.

Applications

• Running EUROPOWER amplifiers in conjunction with 8-Ohm speakers with a power rating of at least 2 x 400 Watts (EP2000) and 2 x 750 Watts (EP4000) is recommended to assure optimal operation.

Differences between 2-channel, parallel and mono-bridged operating modes

2-channel mode is the most common operating mode of amplifiers. Both channels operate fully independently from one another. There is always a separate input signal as well as a separate output signal.

Examples:

• 2-channel (stereo) playback
• Two independent mono signals, e.g. instrument signal and monitor mix
• Bi-amp operation, whereby bass frequencies are run on channel 1, and high frequencies on channel 2 (see chapter "Bi-amping")

2-channel mode

DIP switch positions for 2-channel operation

Parallel mode is identical to 2-channel mode, except for the inputs of both channels are internally connected in parallel. One input signal routes parallel both channels, while their filters etc. are independently controlled.

Examples:

• A mono signal is fed into both channels, whereby amplification of each channel is controlled separately
• Parallel mode (as described above) with connection of an additional amp via the remaining free input connector. The input signal is present there and may be connected to further equipment
• When connecting a balanced input signal, please make sure to exclusively use balanced cables for passing the signal further on. Otherwise, a single unbalanced cable can turn the entire signal unbalanced

Parallel operation

DIP switch positions for parallel operation

When running in mono-bridged mode, the voltage of both channels is added up and fed into a single loudspeaker system. There is one input and one output signal respectively, and only the controls of channel 1 (and not of channel 2) are used.

• However, should the DIP switches 4 and 5 still be in PARALLEL INPUTS position while in mono-bridged mode, the signal on the free input (input channel 2) can be forwarded to an additional amp.

Examples:

• Driving a single 8-Ohm loudspeaker
• Driving a single 4-Ohm loudspeaker

Mono-bridged mode

DIP switch positions for mono-bridged mode

• When the amp is overdriven for longer periods of time, the output signal may occasionally be muted for several seconds. In certain situations, excessive overdriving may trigger off the automated fuse. To avoid overdriving the amp, please continually make sure that an appropriate volume level is applied.

• 2-Ohm loads should never be applied when in mono-bridged mode.
• When connecting a balanced input signal, please make sure to exclusively use balanced cables for passing the signal further on. Otherwise, a single unbalanced cable can turn the entire signal unbalanced.

Safety precautions for mono-bridged operation

• Running your amp in mono-bridged mode can quickly result in excessive overdriving and premature shutting down of the unit itself. In the worst-case scenario, your loudspeakers may be damaged permanently. Therefore, you should always make sure that the speakers you use can indeed handle the power load fed into them.
• A voltage of up to 100 V RMS is present between the output connectors of the EP4000. Always implement appropriate safety precautions when connecting your speakers to avoid the risk of electric shock.

Bi-amping

By using an active crossover, you can divide up the frequency range into several bands. For example, in doing so you can split a mono signal into upper-frequency and lower-frequency ranges. These two signals can then be hooked up to the inputs of your amp, so that channel 1 amplifies the lows and channel 2 amplifies the highs (2-channel operation). The outputs are connected to a 2-way speaker, whereby the output signal 1 drives the woofer and output signal 2 runs the drivers. Of course, you can use two separate speakers instead of a single 2-way speaker.

A stereo signal can also be split up analogous to the example described above.
However, to do that you need two 2-way speakers or 4 separate speakers, two EUROPOWER amps and an active 2-way stereo crossover. The BEHRINGER SUPER-X PRO CX2310 is optimally suited for this task and offers additionally a single monosubwoofer output. By deploying a third EP2000 amp (preferably in mono-bridged mode) and a subwoofer, you have a perfect setup that adds a low-frequency system to the stereo bi-amp application (see figure below). The amp's input filters for the high/mid-frequency ranges should in this case be engaged and set at 50 Hz. To remove low, disturbing frequencies from the signal, the input filter for the subwoofer signal should be set at 30 Hz.

The BEHRINGER EUROLIVE SERIES loudspeakers are an outstanding solution for expanding your P.A. system, because each frequency range/application has a speaker type that optimally suits its characteristics.

• Extreme clip limiter settings in bi-amp operating mode can result in balance shifting.

Stereo bi-amp mode with a separate subwoofer

Installation

Your EUROPOWER can be installed into a 19" rack and requires two rack units. Please use four attaching screws and washers for installation. Reinforce the back end, especially for on-the-road use. Please assure that enough cool air reaches the rack, especially when other rack equipment emanates a lot of heat. In the case of the EUROPOWER EP2000 and EP4000, hot air circulates at the front of the unit to thermally relieve the rack enclosure.

• Fan speed adjusts automatically and assures safe operation. Never block ventilation openings. Should internal temperature reach extreme values, the unit will shut down automatically.

Connections

Inputs

Each channel features balanced XLR and ¼" TRS stereo jack inputs, with input impedances of 20 kΩ (balanced) and 10 kΩ (unbalanced). In general, balanced signals cause less noise than unbalanced signals.

For balanced input signals, use the XLR and ¼" TRS stereo inputs. For unbalanced input signals, use the unused pin of the XLR connector with grounding. No alteration is necessary on mono jack connectors.

• Should you register distractive signals such as noise or hissing, we recommend separating the amp input from the signal source. This way, you can quickly determine if the noise originates in the equipment connected to the amp. Always make sure to completely lower amplification of both channels before powering up the amp (GAIN control turned all the way leftward). Otherwise, permanent damage to your speakers may occur.

Outputs

Your EUROPOWER offers several output connection possibilities: two professional speaker connectors and two pairs of touch-safe binding posts. The professional speaker connectors were especially developed for driving high-power speakers. They snap in securely, prevent electric shock and assure correct polarity. The upper connector drives either one or both channels, and is therefore well-suited for mono-bridged operation (1+/2+). The lower connector carries the signals from channel 2 only.

Professional speaker connectors

• Whenever possible, use thick and short speaker cables to minimize power losses. Never lay output cables near input cables.

Using the binding posts

To connect the loudspeakers to the amplifier's binding posts, please do the following:

1. Switch off the amp and disconnect it from the mains (unplug mains connector).
2. Remove the protective plastic covers shielding the binding posts by loosening the two screws on the right-hand side of the connections and lift the plastic cover upwards.
3. Attach the terminal of your loudspeaker cable to the corresponding binding post.
4. Place the protective plastic covers into its original upright position on each binding post and replace the two screws.

• Never operate the device without the protective plastic covers in place!

Protective plastic covers shielding the binding posts

When using binding post connectors, please make sure that insulation on cables is not removed too high. Insert the naked part of the cable fully so that no metal is visible. Cable clamps must be isolated to avoid the possibility of electric shock. When running the amp in mono-bridged mode, always use the middle two binding post connectors, paying attention to correct polarity.

• 
  If you notice naked cable endings on the binding post connectors, do not power up the amp because of the risk of electric shock.

Connecting to the mains

Always connect your EUROPOWER amplifier to the voltage specified on the rear of the device. Connecting the amp to an incorrect voltage can permanently damage your amp.

Before powering up the amplifier, double-check all connections and fully lower the gain setting.

Audio connections

Various cables are needed for different types of applications. The following illustrations show the correct wiring. Always use high-grade cables.

When connecting a balanced input signal, please make sure to exclusively use balanced cables for passing the signal further on. Otherwise, one single unbalanced cable can turn the entire signal unbalanced.

XLR connectors

¼" TS connector

¼" TRS connector

Specifications

LIMITED WARRANTY

MUSIC Group* warrants the mechanical and electronic components of this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship if used under normal operating conditions for a period of one (1) year from the original date of purchase, unless a longer minimum warranty period is mandated by applicable local laws. MUSIC Group shall, at its discretion, either replace or repair the product using suitable new or reconditioned product or parts. In case MUSIC Group decides to replace the entire product, this limited warranty shall apply to the replacement product for the remaining initial warranty period, i.e., one (1) year (or otherwise applicable minimum warranty period) from the date of purchase of the original product.

PLEASE RETAIN YOUR SALES RECEIPT. IT IS YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE COVERING YOUR LIMITED WARRANTY.

Documents / Resources

References

• Behringer | Home

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