Version 2.

2
September 1999

LA 48
OWNERS MANUAL
 LA 48
OWNERS MANUAL
Table Of Contents

• INTRODUCTION ...................................... 2 • PROTECTION FEATURES......................... 16

Clip limiter....................................................................16
• UNPACKING ............................................ 2
Thermal protection.....................................................16
• WARNINGS.............................................. 2 VHF protection............................................................16
Short circuit protection ..............................................17
• USER RESPONSIBILITY............................. 3
Speaker damage .............................................................3 Adaptive Fuse Saver, AFStm-limiter; ..........................17

Speaker output hazard ..................................................3 AC mains voltage protection......................................17

Radio interference ..........................................................3 DC protection..............................................................17

• FRONT PANEL.......................................... 4 • DESIGN FEATURES ................................. 18

Cooling..........................................................................18
• REAR PANEL............................................. 5 Light weight .................................................................18

• INSTALLATION ........................................ 6 Switch mode power supply (SMPS)..........................18

Mounting..........................................................................6 MLS™-switches...........................................................19
Cooling ............................................................................6
• SAFETY APPROVALS............................... 20
Operating voltage...........................................................6
EMC approvals............................................................20
Grounding........................................................................7
Emission........................................................................20
Power consumption.......................................................7
Immunity .......................................................................20
Input connections............................................................8
Connecting speakers................................................... 10 • EMC-DECLARATION ................................ 20
Load matching (MLS-switches)................................. 10
• APPENDIX A........................................... 21
Mains voltage selection...............................................21
• OPERATING MODES............................... 12
Stereo operation.......................................................... 12
• MAINTENANCE....................................... 22
Tandem mono.............................................................. 12 Troubleshooting ..........................................................22
Bridged mono.............................................................. 12
Stereo reverse.............................................................. 13 • WARRANTY AND DISCLAIMERS ............. 23
General..........................................................................23
• OPERATION ........................................... 14 International..................................................................23
Operating precautions................................................ 14
Powering up - Soft start.............................................. 14 • TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ....................... 24
International..................................................................24
Input attenuators.......................................................... 14
Factory service ............................................................24
Gain............................................................................... 14
Indicators...................................................................... 15

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 1

• INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 power amplifier. The amplifier you have
chosen is the culmination of many years of research and development and makes
amplification more controllable instead of the traditional "boring black box" that you have
become accustomed to.
Please take some time to read this manual and familiarize yourself with the advanced features
of this amplifier.

• UNPACKING
Carefully open the shipping carton and check for any noticeable damage. Every L-
ACOUSTICS amplifier is tested and inspected before leaving the factory and should arrive in
perfect condition. If found to be damaged, notify the shipping company immediately. Only the
consignee may institute a claim with the carrier for damage incurred during shipping. Be sure
to save the carton and packing materials for the carrier's inspection. It is also advisable to save
the carton and packing material even if the amplifier is undamaged. Should you ever need to
ship the amplifier always use the original packing.

• WARNINGS
Read this before operating your amplifier:
Do not use the amplifier if the power cord is broken or frayed.
Always operate the unit with the chassis ground wire connected to the electrical safety earth.
Do not parallel or series connect an amplifier output with any other amplifier output. Do not
connect the amplifier output to any other voltage source, such as a battery, mains source or
power supply, regardless of whether the amplifier is turned on or off.
Do not run the output of any amplifier back into another channel's input.
Do not block the air intake or exhaust ports. Do not operate the amplifier near heat
producing devices such as radiators, stoves etc.
Do not spill water or other liquids into or on the unit. Do not operate the amplifier if you or
the amplifier are standing in liquid.
Do not remove top or bottom covers. Removal of the cover will expose hazardous voltages.
There are no user serviceable parts inside and removal may void warranty.
Keep this manual for future reference.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 2

• USER RESPONSIBILITY

Speaker damage

Your amplifier is very powerful and can be potentially dangerous to both loudspeakers and
humans alike. Loudspeakers can be damaged or destroyed by overpowering, especially with
the high power available from a bridged amplifier. Always check the speaker's continuous and
peak power capabilities.
Even if the gain is reduced by using the amplifier's front panel attenuator, it is still possible to
reach full output power if the input signal level is high enough.

Speaker output hazard

Power amplifiers are capable of producing hazardous output voltages. To avoid electrical
shock, do not touch any exposed speaker wiring while the amplifier is operating. See page 10
for information concerning proper connection of speakers.

Radio interference

This product has been tested and complies with the limits of the European Electro Magnetic
Compatibility (EMC) directive. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference between electrical equipment. This product uses radio frequency
energy and if not used or installed in accordance with the operating instructions may cause
interference to other equipment such as radio receivers. There is no guarantee against
interference even though the amplifier is EMC approved. If the amplifier causes interference,
the problem can be corrected by following one or more of the following steps:
a) Increase the proximity between the amplifier and the affected unit.
b) Connect the AC cord of the amplifier to an outlet that is on a different circuit from that
which the affected unit is connected to.
c) If a radio receiver is interfered with (normally amplitude modulation type) reorient the
antenna.
d) Check whether the affected unit complies with the EMC limits for immunity (CE-labelled).
If not, address the problem with the manufacturer or supplier. All electrical products sold
in the EC must be approved for immunity against electromagnetic fields, high voltage
flashes, and radio interference.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 3

• FRONT PANEL

Figure 1. Front panel

1. Carry/protection handle
Both handles can be used to carry the amplifier and they also act as protection for the front
panel. If desired, they can be removed by removing the screws located behind the front panel.
2. Input level attenuators
Used to alter the signal level entering the amplifier. Calibrated in dB to help set up active
loudspeaker systems or to cut down on unwanted noise from the input signal (see page 14).
3. TEMP protect indicator
This indicator is lit if the amplifier tries to operate above its maximum operating temperature
(90oC). The indicator first comes on as a warning to either turn down the input level or check
the cooling arrangements after which point the amplifier will mute the input signal. When
cooling fans have returned the output heat sinks to the normal operating temperature the
input signal is unmuted.
4. VHF protect indicator
This indicator lights when high level, high frequency signals (above 12 kHz at full power) are
present at the output terminals. When this happens the input signal is muted and the process
cycles until the VHF signal is no longer present (see page 16).
5. CLIP indicator
This indicator shows when the amplifier output is clipping or limiting. LED dynamics under clip
conditions depend on whether the Clip Limiter is engaged or bypassed (see page 16):
• When the clip limiter is engaged, the clip indicator flickers briefly (limiting)
• When the clip limiter is not engaged, the indicator lights for a longer period (clipping).
6. Fan grill filter
Two removeable grilles with foam filters are located on the front panel to prevent dust from
entering the amplifier.
7. Power switch
This is used to turn on/off the amplifier (see page 14).
8. AC indicator
Indicates if AC voltage is present.
9. AFS indicator
Indicates if the adaptive fuse saver is activated.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 4

• REAR PANEL

9.5dBu I/P S ensitivit y

CH. B INPUT C H. A
OUT PUT CH.B OUT PUT CH.A

N ormal P ol. B
R everse P ol. B

Lin k A+B
32 dB Gain
S tereo
Swit ch

Swit ch
M LS

MLS
dB

dB
0 Mo no Bridge 0
1+ CH.B+ 1+ CH .A+
-2 -2
1- CH.B-
-4 On Off
XLR 1/4" LA 48 On Off
-4
1-
2+
CH.A-
CH .B+
Cl ip Lim it er P in1 Gnd Slee ve Clip Limit er 2- CH.B-
-5 -5
2 Pos T ip Power Ampl ifier
3 Neg R in g 230V AC 40-44 0Hz
Mad e in t he E uropean Com mu nit y Pat ent Pend ing S er. N° : Re moved !
Mu st be grou nded Po wer Co nsu mpt ion : 2300 W

Figure 2. Rear panel

1. Speaker connector
Neutrik NL4FC Speakon Connectors. A full description of pin assignments is found in the
operation section (see page 10).

2. MLS™ switches
Minimum Load Select (MLS) switches. Used to select the maximum output power (see pages
10-11).

3. Clip limiter switch

Turns the clip limiter on (switch depressed - IN position) or off (switch not depressed - OUT
position) (see page 16).

4. Input jack
Alternative to using XLRs for signal input or for linking inputs with other amplifiers (see page
8).

5. Input signal XLR (see page 8)

6. Phase reverse switch for channel B

For reversing the input signal phase of channel B or used in conjunction with the Link Switch
to allow bridged operation (see page 12).

7. Link switch
Allows a single input to drive both channels simultaneously or used in conjunction with the
Phase Reverse Switch to allow bridged operation (see page 12).

8. AC line cord

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 5

• INSTALLATION

Mounting
The amplifier is two rack units high (2U) and will mount in a standard EIA 19 inch rack.
Amplifiers may be stacked directly on top of each other and there is no need for spacing
between units. If you intend to fill a rack with amplifiers, we recommend racking is started
from the bottom of the rack. It is also recommended that rear supports are used for
amplifiers mounted in the middle of the rack, especially if used as part of a portable system.

Cooling
The LA 48 uses a forced air cooling system to maintain a low and even operating
temperature. All L-ACOUSTICS amplifiers are fan ventilated and have front to rear cooling
(generally there is usually cooler air outside the rack than inside). Never try to reverse the air
flow since the Intercooler® needs a pressure chamber between the fans and heat sink and
this only works for the normal front to rear direction of air flow (see Design Features on page
18).
Should a heat sink get too hot, its sensing circuit will mute the hot channel. If the power
supply overheats another sensing circuit will mute all output channels until it cools down to a
safe operating temperature.
Make sure that there is an adequate air supply in front of the amplifier and that the rear of the
amplifier has sufficient space to allow the exhaust to escape. If the amplifier is rack mounted,
do not use covers or doors on the front or rear of the rack.
For fixed installations with a central cooling system, (usually found in fixed installations with a
dedicated rack room) it may be necessary to calculate the maximum heat emission. Refer to
the section on Power Consumption on page 7.

Operating voltage
A label just below the mains cable on the rear of the amplifier indicates the AC mains voltage
that your amplifier is configured for. Connect the power cable only to the AC source referred
to on this label. The warranty will not cover damage caused by connecting to the wrong type
of AC mains.
L-ACOUSTICS switch mode amplifiers use primary switching, i.e. the mains is rectified
directly before the transformer, which means that the power supply is insensitive to the mains
frequency and will operate from DC to 400 Hz.
The amplifier is supplied with an approved European AC line connector. If this connector is
not appropriate for your country, it can be cut off and wired to a suitable connector in the
following way :
BROWN LIVE
BLUE NEUTRAL
GREEN/YELLOW EARTH
Once the AC connector is connected to a suitable AC supply, the amplifier can be started by
pressing the AC power switch. When you power up the amplifier it takes a couple of seconds
L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 6
to check its circuits (this is known as the "soft start" or "slow start" sequence), the fans then
blow at high speed before going into "idle" and the 2 bottom green LED’s come on to show
the output circuits are receiving the correct rail voltage.

Grounding

There is no ground lift switch or terminal on this amplifier. The signal ground is always floating
via a resistor to chassis and the grounding system is automatic. If a potential above 0.6 V
presents itself between signal ground and chassis ground, a short circuit is introduced between
the two, thereby enabling electrical protection. If a unit in the system is faulty, its mains fuse
will blow due to this automatic ground system.
If you want to tie the signal ground to chassis, connect the XLR-connector’s shell lug to pin 1.
In the interest of safety never disconnect the earth pin on the AC cord.
For all units that are EMC approved for radio interference there is an AC mains filter. This
filter needs the chassis ground for reference, otherwise a current loop is formed via the signal
ground.
Use the balanced input to avoid hum and interference.

Power consumption

There are three ways to determine the power/current consumption of the amplifier:
First, the peak current draw at full output power. Under this condition the power will
trip the wall breaker within 30 seconds and the amplifier will operate for less than 2 minutes
before thermal limiting. During this time, the temperature of the power supply will be
stabilized at a temperature that will have no effect on the insulation rating of the AC line cord.
Secondly, the maximum expected average current under worst case program material is
1/3 of full power according to the FTC standard. At this level the music will be in a state of
constant clip and this is therefore the highest power level one can obtain without completely
obliterating the program.
Finally, the "normal operating power", as measured according to safety standard IEC 65
and used by a majority of safety agencies. The normal operating power is measured using pink
noise, with an average output power equal to 1/8 of full power. One eighth of the total
power is as loud as you can play music while making some attempt to avoid obvious clipping.
It also corresponds to a headroom of 9dB, which is very low for audio program.
For 2 ohm operation, the AFS-protection of the amplifier circuit will not permit long term
current draw and the component temperature rise will stabilize well below the rating.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 7

 MAXIMUM OUTPUT POWER MAINS INPUT POWER
Load # of ch Power Full Power 1/3 Power 1/8 Power Idle
(watts) (sine wave) (see note 1) (see note 2)
8 ohms 2X 1300 3500 1400 800 130
4 ohms 2X 2100 6000 2300 1300 130
2 ohms 2X 2400 10300* 4300 2300 130
* Will be reduced by AFS protection

note 1 Mean power with music as program source (amplifier driven to clip level)
note 2 Normal music power with 9 dB headroom (IEC standard power rating)

Table 1.

The current draw can be calculated by dividing the mains input power by the mains voltage.
We recommend you design your power distribution system to ensure sufficient current for at
least 1/8 power operation and to upgrade service to meet 1/3 power requirements for heavy
duty demands like discos etc.
The heat power can be calculated according to the following example:
Consider a headroom of at least 9 dB and a 4 ohm load on an amplifier producing 2100 watts
per channel. The 1/8 power per channel is then: 2100 / 8 = 263 watts; total output: 2 x 263
= 525 watts.
The power consumption according to Table 1 is 1300 watts.
The heat power produced is the difference between the power consumption and output
power: 1300 - 525 = 775 watts per amplifier

Input connections
XLR Input connectors are balanced and wired according to IEC 268 (pin 2 hot):
PIN 1 GROUND/SHIELD
PIN 2 HOT (+ve)
PIN 3 COLD (-ve)

Figure 3. XLR input connector pinout

There are also TRS jacks for linking etc. They are wired as follows:
TIP HOT (+ve)
RING COLD (-ve)
SLEEVE GROUND/SHIELD

Figure 4. TRS phone plug

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 8

The input impedance is high enough (20 kohms balanced) to allow ”daisy-chaining” or multiple
parallel input connections. To daisy chain, use the TRS jacks provided on each channel. The
input circuits have high enough headroom to accept the maximum output level from virtually
any low level signal source.

Figure 5. Rear panel connectors

Do not use XLR and TRS jacks on the same channel simultaneously for mixing or for
other purposes.

Figure 6. Balanced line

To connect an unbalanced source, tie pin 3 (ring on TRS jack) to the shield of the connector.
If you leave one pin disconnected, you will lose 6 dB in gain.

Figure 7. Unbalanced line connection

A more optimal method for handling unbalanced sources is shown in Figure 8. This is similar
to the connection for balanced lines, except pin 3 is tied to the shield at the source side
instead. The hum and noise rejection for the cable is equivalent to that for a balanced line. To
minimize hum, always use balanced inputs whenever possible.

Figure 8. Balanced line with unbalanced equipment

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 9

Connecting speakers

Speaker connections are made via the two Neutrik NL4FC Speakon connectors (1).
Speakons are wired in the following manner:

Channel A Channel B
Pin +1 Channel A+ Channel B+
Pin 1 Channel A Channel B
Pin +2 Channel B+
Pin 2 Channel B

Figure 9. Speakon Connector Pinout Diagram

Never connect either output terminal to ground or to another output or input

terminal (see warning on page 2).
For normal two-channel operation, connect each speaker load across the output terminals
(positive and ground). Since Channel A Speakons are biwired, it is possible to access
both channels on a single connector - however, for biamped operation be careful
whether Channel A or B outputs are assigned to the LF or HF component of your
active loudspeaker system. Also pay attention to speaker polarity: loudspeakers
connected out of phase degrade sound quality and may be damaged as a
consequence.
Keep the speaker cable wires as short as possible and use good quality stranded speaker
cable. Do not use shielded wire, such as microphone or guitar cable. Remember that the
speaker cable robs the power of the amplifiers by increasing the load impedance and
introducing resistive power losses, so called I2R losses.

Load matching (MLS-switches)

Minimum Load Select (MLS) switches are located on the rear panel. The MLS switches
provide impedance matching capability so that you can drive the LA 48 into 2 ohms without
increased heat losses.
Please refer to Table 2 to determine the power delivered into a specific load for various MLS
switch settings. Note that higher powers can be achieved utilising higher MLSTM positions
when connected to lower speaker impedances.
As you can see from Table 2 the LA 48 can produce in excess of 2000 watts into a wide
variety of impedance loads.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 10

 L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 POWER MATRIX
MLS SWITCH SETTING

LOAD CONFIGURATION -5 dB -4 dB -2 dB 0 dB

16 ohms Stereo (2 channel) 220 W 260 W 410 W 650 W

8 ohms Stereo (2 channel) 430 W 520 W 820 W 1300 W

4 ohms Stereo (2 channel) 830 W 1000 W 1600 W 2100 W

2 ohms Stereo (2 channel) 1660 W 2000 W 2200 W 2400 W *

16 ohms Mono Bridged 860 W 1040 W 1640 W 2600 W

8 ohms Mono Bridged 1660 W 2000 W 3200 W 4200 W

4 ohms Mono Bridged 3400 W 4000 W 4400 W 4800 W *

* Component tolerance dependent
Power in watts (EIA 1 kHz, 1% THD)

Table 2

Figure 10. MLS switches on rear panel

MLSTM positions can be different for each channel and a variety of combinations can be
achieved (see Table 3).

Channel Impedance MLS Power Comments

A 8 -2dB 820W Power

B 8 -2dB 820W reduction

A 4 0dB 2100W High peak

B 4 0dB 2100W power

A 8 0dB 1300W Power

B 2 -5dB 1660W matching

A 8 -2dB 820W Power

B 4 0dB 2100W sharing

Table 3.

The way to find the best MLSTM position for your application is by experimentation. The
amplifier is very well protected (even down to 0.3 ohms), but when time is of essence stick to
the recommended positions. The thing to remember with the LA 48 is that it is a power
converter and when you select MLSTM positions you are allocating a portion of power from
4800 watts.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 11

• OPERATING MODES

Stereo operation
For stereo (dual channel) operation, leave the Link and Phase reverse switches in the
undepressed position (OUT position). Both channels operate independently and their
individual level attenuators control their respective levels. Loudspeakers are connected as
described on page 10.
Never connect either output terminal to ground or in parallel. The recommended
minimum nominal impedance, for stereo or tandem operation, is 2 ohms per channel.

Tandem mono
For tandem (dual channel-single input) operation, depress the Link switch (IN position). Both
channels are now driven by the same signal which can be applied at either input connector.
The output connection is the same as for stereo mode and both level attenuators are active,
allowing you to set different levels for each channel. You can use either of the two TRS
connectors for linking the signal to other amplifiers (daisychaining). Do not use the
remaining XLR and TRS connectors for mixing or other purposes. Never connect
either output terminal to ground or in parallel.

Bridged mono
To bridge the amplifier, depress the Link Switch (7) and Phase Reverse Switch (6). Both
channels are then driven by a single signal which can be applied at either input. You can use
any remaining input connectors for linking etc. Do not use the remaining XLR and TRS as
input jacks simultaneously for mixing or other purposes.
Connect the positive speaker terminal to pin +1 on the Channel A Speakon and the
negative speaker terminal to pin +2 on the Channel A Speakon. Do not connect
the -1 or -2 (negative) pins of the Speakons. NOTE : do not connect speakers to
channel A or B in the normal manner in bridged mode, as this can cause serious
damage.
The recommended minimum nominal impedance for bridged mono is 4 ohms (equivalent to
driving both channels at 2 ohms). Driving bridged loads of less than 4 ohms may cause
thermal overload.

Figure 11. Bridged mono connection

For bridged mono operation, both level attenuators must be in the same position. We
recommend you leave them in the 0 dB (fully open) position.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 12

Stereo reverse

This mode is similar to the Tandem mono mode except that by operating channel A and B in
opposite polarity the energy storage in the power supply is more efficient. This means that
the amplifier can deliver up to 10% more power than in tandem mono mode (a significant
advantage for signals below 100 Hz such as sub bass etc).
For stereo reverse operation, depress the Phase reverse switch so that Channel B is phase
reversed. To compensate:
If you are using both Speakon outputs, connect pin +1 on the Channel B Speakon to
speaker's negative terminal and pin -1 on Channel B to the speaker's positive
terminal. Channel A is connected as for normal polarity operation.
If you are using the Channel A Output Speakon only, connect pin 2+ to the negative
speaker terminal and pin 2- to the positive speaker terminal for the Channel B
output (1+ to positive speaker terminal, 1- to negative speaker terminal for the
Channel A output).

Figure 12. Stereo reverse mode

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 13

• OPERATION

Operating precautions

• Make sure that the power switch is off before making any input or output connections or
operating the switches on rear panel. See page 6 regarding installation.
• Make sure that the AC mains is correct and is the same as what is printed on the rear
panel of the amplifier. See page 7 regarding operating voltage and power consumption.
• Make sure that the switches on the rear panel related to operating modes, clip limiters,
and MLS™ are set in the correct position. See pages 12-13 (operating modes), page 16
(clip limiters) and pages 10-11 (MLS switches) for further information.
• It is always a good idea to turn down the gain controls before powering up in order to
prevent speaker damage if there is a high signal level at the input.

Powering up - Soft start

When you power up the amplifier it takes a few seconds to check its circuits (this is known as
the "soft start" or "slow start" sequence), the fans blow at high speed before going into "idle"
then the two bottom green LED’s come on to show that the output circuits are receiving the
correct rail voltage.

Input attenuators

The two input level attenuators on the front panel alter the signal level for their respective
amplifier channels in all modes. They are calibrated in dB to help in setting up active
loudspeaker systems or for cutting down unwanted noise from the input signal.
In bridged mode, both controls must be in the same position so that the speaker load will be
shared equally between the channels.

Gain

The LA 48 is configured for 32 dB gain as standard. Most professional mixing consoles operate
at a nominal level of +4dBu therefore 32 dB gain gives you plenty of fader movement.

INPUT SENSITIVITY
GAIN Vrms dBV dBu
32 dB 2.3 7.2 9.5

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 14

Indicators

The two bottom green ”ON” LEDs indicate that the output circuits are receiving the correct
rail voltage.
The ”-25 dB” LEDs glow when the output signal is greater than -25 dB (0 dB is referenced to
the full output power as selected using MLS switches). These LEDs also act as signal present
indicators.
The rest of the green LEDs form a bar for output levels from -20 dB to -5 dB.
The CLIP LED indicates when the amplifier output is clipping or limiting. Clip indicator LED
dynamics under clipping conditions depend on whether the clip limiter is engaged.
• When the clip limiter is engaged, the clip indicator flickers briefly (limiting)
• When the clip limiter is not engaged the clip indicator lights for a longer period (clipping)
The remaining VHF and TEMP LEDs indicate if any protection circuits are activate. These are
described below.

Figure 13. Front indicators

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 15

• PROTECTION FEATURES
Each L-ACOUSTICS amplifier has many advanced protection features that will protect both
the amplifier and the speakers connected to it should a fault condition arise. All protection
circuits are independent and under normal use these features are inaudible. When the
amplifier comes out of a protect condition, the output level has a slow rise time - the effect is
like turning the gain up slowly.

Clip limiter
The clip limiter is included to prevent dangerously clipped signals from reaching the speaker
and damaging it. Limiting circuitry works by monitoring the output and comparing the
distortion produced between the input and output of the amplifier. If the distortion exceeds
1%THD for any reason (voltage or current clipping), the limiter reduces the input signal
proportionally. Note that if the signal is distorted or clipped before it reaches the amplifier,
the clip limiter will not be activated.
Under normal operation, clip limiting is inaudible. The limiter can be turned On or Off by
depressing the clip limit switch (2).
Clip Limiter ON = switch depressed (IN position)
Clip Limiter OFF = switch not depressed (OUT position)
L-ACOUSTICS recommends leaving the clip limiters switched "on" (button depressed) at all
times.

Thermal protection
When the amplifier is driven very hard into low impedances, the cooling fans go into high
speed. If the conditions that cause this continue, the temperature indicator(s) will light as an
indication that the amplifier will soon thermal out.
After five seconds the amplifier will go into thermal protect, muting the input signal. After 15-
20 seconds the amplifier will cool the Intercooler®and the cycle will begin again.
Thermal protection starts when the Intercooler® reaches a temperature above 900 C

VHF protection
When a signal of more than 12kHz at full output power is present at the output connectors
for more than five seconds, the VHF protection circuit mutes the input signal (this is indicated
on the front panel (4) labeled VHF). This is a useful feature since there are currently no
commercially available compression drivers that can take 1300 watts of continuous power at
12 kHz!! This circuit is inaudible under normal use, however it can be turned off.
If the VHF protection is required to be turned off, e.g., for studio monitors, please consult the
factory, as this is a non-user adjustment.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 16

Short circuit protection
All L-ACOUSTICS amplifiers are completely short circuit protected. The protection circuit
permits very high peak currents, but still holds the output devices within their safe operation
area. If a short circuit is maintained, the channel affected will eventually go into thermal
protection and the cycle will repeat.

Adaptive Fuse Saver, AFStm-limiter;

The AFSTM circuit continuously monitors the mains current. If the average mains current is
too high for a 16 ampere slow blow fuse (as it can be during bench tests) the AFS™-limiter
will limit the mains current to a safe level. If the AFS-limiter is activated this will be indicated by
the AFS-LED on the front panel. The AFS limiter will not be activated during normal use, even
if the music is in a state of constant clip.

AC mains voltage protection

If the AC mains voltage is outside the 20% range of allowed operation voltage (over or under
voltage), the power supply will shut itself down. When the mains voltage is above the
minimum start voltage and below its maximum operating voltage the amplifier will restart
again.
It takes a couple of seconds for the amplifier to check its circuits (this is known as the "soft
start" or "slow start" sequence), then the gain will slowly and gradually be raised back to
normal and the fans then blow at high speed before going into "idle". The two green ”ON”
LEDs indicate when the power supply is operating properly.

DC protection

There are two types of DC protection:

Fuses on the supply branches of each channel (this is an IEC 65 requirement) and Crowbar
type protection that shorts the output. Both of these circuits come into effect once a DC
level of 10 volts or more is detected on either channel.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 17

• DESIGN FEATURES

Cooling
L-ACOUSTICS amplifiers run very cool due to a patented heat sink device called the
IntercoolerTM. Bipolar output devices are mounted directly on a copper heat sink thereby
avoiding thermal losses normally found when using mica washers. The heat sink is then
mounted horizontally in front of a pressure chamber where the air flow is constant along the
entire length of the heat sink due to a horizontal pressure chamber that is created in front of
it (by comparison, for a conventional tunnel design the end of the heat sink opposite the fan
invariably gets hotter than that directly in front of the fan). When cool air in the pressure
chamber hits the geometric fins of the IntercoolerTM, turbulence is produced thereby
enabling efficient cooling.

Light weight
The LA 48 has an excellent power to weight ratio (480 W/Kg) making it one of the most
powerful 2U amplifiers available. The light weight is achieved not only through use of the
switch mode power supply - the IntercoolerTM and 9 piece anodized alloy chassis also
contribute greatly, making rear rack supports unnecessary in many applications.

Switch mode power supply (SMPS)

Switch mode power supplies are the modern solution to the problems of size and weight.
However, early examples of SMPS used for power amplification in audio applications were
less than impressive and literally adopted the type of supply found in many computers today.
The L-ACOUSTICS SMPS is different in that it is regulated. How is this achieved?
In contrast to other designs that use push pull converters we have managed to produce a
SMPS that has the same characteristics as a conventional power supply. We have avoided the
pitfalls of push-pull converters by eliminating the need for limiting on the secondary side of the
switch transformer. This is achieved by using sense windings and injecting a magnetic pulse
from the AC line during a pulse time segment which is separate from the output charge
current pulse.

90

80

70

60
Voltage [V]

50
2
40

30

20 1

10 3
0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Current [A]

Figure 14. Current-voltage characteristic of different power supply topologies.

1) Conventional power supply shows voltage drop due to internal resistance
2) Regulated power supply used by L-ACOUSTICS
3) Unregulated switch mode power supply with current limiting.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 18

While the SMPS might sound complex it is actually very straight forward and has high
reliability. The net performance result is good bass and fast transient response. Because the
supply is regulated, the LA 48 will produce the same power output even if the AC line voltage
falls by up to 20% ! Efficiency is also assured, and in the case of the LA 48 this is especially
apparent - its power supply draws only 6 kW while producing 2 x 2100 W.
Traditional PSUs can behave erratically at certain frequencies - particularly at low frequencies
under clip conditions where their output impedance rises. This produces uncontrollable
speaker cone movement and under these conditions clip states are more audible for the case
of conventional PSUs.
By comparison, the L-ACOUSTICS SMPS produces its rated power output at all frequencies
regardless of speaker demands and AC line conditions.

MLS™-switches

Thanks to the regulated SMPS, the maximum power available from the output stages can be
adjusted without increased heat dissipation or efficiency loss. This allows users to match the
output power to the loudspeaker load impedance.
The LED bargraph is also adjusted to give a correct reading relative to the selected output
power. Because the amount of power delivered into a load is dictated by its impedance (at 2
ohms you use the least voltage but require the most current), you can cheat with the MLS
switches thereby enabling powers in excess of the normal power rating.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 19

• SAFETY APPROVALS
L-ACOUSTICS amplifiers are designed to meet IEC65, a stringent electrical safety approval
from the International Electro-technical Commission. The IEC65 standard is recognized
world-wide with most countries having an equivalent.

EMC approvals
EMC stands for Electro Magnetic Compatibility. This implies that the equipment should have
low emission of radio frequencies, directly radiated as electromagnetic fields in the air and as
conducted from the cables connected to the unit. The amplifier should also be able to handle
electromagnetic fields, high voltage flashes, and radio interference, coming into the unit via the
air or cables.

Emission
The regulations now cover the frequency range from 150 kHz to 300 MHz. The maximum
level radiated from a unit has to be below 100 µV, ( 0.0001 V ).

Immunity
The equipment should be able to handle three different types of interference:
• Electrostatic discharges of up to 8 kV, hitting the chassis or cables.
• Transients and bursts up to 1 kV, conducted through the cables to the unit.
• Electromagnetic fields up to 3 V/m, radiated on the unit and the cables in the frequency
range of 27 - 500 MHz.
We have extended the tests in two cases and chosen a standard used for heavy industrial
situations. First, we have tested conducted disturbances in the frequency range 150 kHz - 80
MHz, by injecting 3V amplitude modulated (80%) signals into all the cables (inputs, outputs
and mains). This covers noise from AM transmitters, which are still in use in some areas.
Secondly, we have extended the range for electromagnetic fields to 26 - 1000 MHz, with a
level of 6 V/m and 80% AM modulated.
In the range 895 - 905 MHz, we test with a field strength of 35 V/m and 100% pulse
modulation. This emulates the signals from a mobile phone close to the unit. In all cases the
noise plus distortion is below 1% at normal operating level (normal operating level is 1/8 of
full power or -9 dB under clip point according to IEC 65).

• EMC-DECLARATION
This audio power amplifier conforms with the EMC-directive 89/336/EEC and relates to the
following standards:
EN 55013:1990
EN 50 082-1
IEC 801-2, ed.1(1984)
IEC 801-3, ed.1(1988)
IEC 801-4, ed.1(1984)
SS-ENV 50 141 ed.1 (1994)

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 20

• APPENDIX A

Mains voltage selection

The LA 48 is normally shipped for 230 volt AC operation but can be configured for 115 volt
AC option. To check if the amplifier is equipped with the 115/230 V option, please follow
these steps:
1. Make sure that the LA 48 is unplugged from the mains voltage.
2. Remove the top and bottom cover.
3. If the four electrolytic capacitors close to the front are rated 1500uF 200VDC, the
amplifier is for 230 volt operation only
4. If the four electrolytic capacitors close to the front are rated 2200uF 200VDC, the
amplifier has the 115/230 volt option.
5. Locate the jumper(s) on the solder side of the circuit board close to the mains switch.
6. To select the desired mains voltage, install the jumpers as shown in Figure 15.
7. For 230 volt operation; use a T 15A fuse (slow blow), for 115 volt change to a T 30 A fuse
(slow blow).
8. Replace the amplifier top and bottom cover.
9. For 115 volt operation; stick a ”115 VAC” label on top of the 230 VAC label on the rear
panel.

Figure 15. 230 VAC or 115 VAC selection

Warning: This modification should only be made by an experienced service technician.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 21

• MAINTENANCE
Under normal use the amplifier should give years of trouble free service. The only user
maintenance required is to remove and vacuum the front grill periodically.
In some extreme cases it may be necessary to clean the inside of the amplifier. This is usually
necessary after prolonged use in environments where "cracked-oil" smoke machines are
present.
If you are using your amplifier for heavy duty use i.e., concert touring, it is recommended that
you have your amplifier serviced every 3 years, purely as a preventative measure

Troubleshooting

These are typical things to check if you think your amplifier is faulty:
Fault: No output.
If the output bargraph is functioning there is nothing wrong with the amplifier and the likely
cause is an unsecured Speakon.
Check that the VHF protection is not activated. If it is, remove possible high frequency
oscillations from the relevant input.
Fault: The amplifier goes into thermal protection when driven at low level.
Check that your loudspeaker does not have a short circuit in its windings (this can occur when
the speaker's voice coil gets hot).
Fault: The amplifier goes into protect with power indicators off.
Check that the AC line voltage is not outside the amplifier’s operating range (130-260 volts).
Over/under-voltage protection may have occurred.
If the amplifier is connected by mistake to a 3 phase supply (415v), an internal non-resettable
fuse or resistor may have blown (return the amplifier for service).
Fault: The amplifier does not respond even after checking the above items.
In the unlikely event that there is a non-user rectifiable fault, return the amplifier to L-
Acoustics or an approved service centre.
L-ACOUSTICS cannot be held responsible for damage or injury as a result of the
top cover being removed.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 22

• WARRANTY AND DISCLAIMERS

General

This product is warranted to be free from defects in components and factory workmanship
under normal use and service for a period of 3 years from the date of original purchase.
During the warranty period, L-ACOUSTICS or its nominated agents will undertake to repair,
or at its option, replace this product at no charge to its owner when it fails to perform as
specified, provided that the unit is returned undamaged and shipped pre-paid to the factory or
an authorised service facility.
No other warranty is expressed or implied.
This warranty shall be null and void, if the product is subjected to:
1) Repair work or alteration by persons other than those authorised by L-ACOUSTICS or its
agents.
2) Shipping accidents, war, civil insurrection, misuse, abuse, operation with incorrect AC
voltage, operation with faulty associated equipment and normal wear and tear. Units on
which the serial number has been removed or defaced will not be eligible for warranty
service.
3) L-ACOUSTICS shall not be responsible for any incidental or consequential damages with
respect to the products warranted.
L-ACOUSTICS reserves the right to make changes or improvements in the design or
manufacturing without assuming any obligation to change or improve products previously
manufactured.

International

Please contact your supplier for this information, as rights and disclaimers may vary from
country to country.

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 23

• TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

International

If your L-ACOUSTICS product needs repair then contact your L-ACOUSTICS dealer or
distributor directly (or contact L-ACOUSTICS by fax to obtain the location of the nearest
authorised service centre).

Factory service

In the event that your L-ACOUSTICS product needs factory service, you should contact the
L-ACOUSTICS service department for return instructions and a Return Authorisation
number.

Please note on product return:

1. Use the original packing
2. Include a copy of the sales receipt, your name, return address, phone number, fax
number and defect description.
3. Mark the Return Authorisation number on the outside of the packing.
4. Ship the product prepaid to:

L-Acoustics
Les Taillis Bourdrie
Route des Molières
91400 Gometz-la-Ville
France

Telephone: +33 (0)1 60 12 74 74

Fax: +33 (0)1 60 12 55 18
e-mail: [email protected]

L-ACOUSTICS LA 48 MANUAL Version 2.2 17/11/08 24