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Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate PM400X4

Contrary to how some marine audio amplifier manufacturers approach the design of their products, an amplifier designed for a boat isn’t just painted a different color. From coatings on the circuit board and the finish on the heatsink to the materials chosen for the electrical connections, a marine amp needs to be designed from the ground up for reliability. In this spotlight, we’ll look at what makes the Rockford Fosgate PM400X4 a perfect solution for your marine audio application.

Specifications of the Rockford Fosgate PM400X4

The PM400X4 is a four-channel amplifier rated to produce 50 watts of power into four 4-ohm loads and 100 watts into 2-ohm loads. Each pair of channels can be bridged to provide 200 watts of power into two 4-ohm loads. The bridged configuration would be ideal for a pair of subwoofers or wakeboard tower enclosures, such as the 10-inch Rockford Fosgate M2WL-10H.

Performance-wise, Rockford Fosgate rates the amp as having a bandwidth of 20 Hz to 20 kHz with a tolerance of 1 dB. Most companies use a 3 dB rating. This is a Class A/B amplifier, so you know the frequency response with real dynamic loads is going to be ruler-flat to well beyond where humans can hear. Distortion is specified as less than 1%. We know from our testing that these amplifiers are capable of better than 0.02%, putting them in line with the cream of the crop.

Rockford Fosgate PM400X4 — The PM400X4 is a four-channel Class-AB amplifier designed for marine applications.

Design Features

The PM400X4 is based on a cast aluminum heatsink that measures 11.03 by 7.76 inches and stands 2.38 inches tall. The heatsink is finished in a light grey powder coat that’s not only durable but also resistant to fading under prolonged UV exposure.

Speaker, signal, and power connections are made along the front edge of the amp. Terminal blocks with set screws accessible from the top of the amp ensure secure and reliable connections for up to 4-AWG power and ground wires and 8-AWG speaker connections. The terminal blocks use stainless steel hardware to prevent corrosion. The amp has four RCA input jacks that are slightly recessed into the front panel.

Signal Processing and Controls

As you can see from the photos, there’s a removable panel on top of the amp that provides access to the controls. Each pair of channels has a sensitivity control that’s adjustable from 150 millivolts to an impressive 12 volts. The RCA input jacks have a balanced differential circuit design. Not only does this help eliminate noise, but it means your installer can connect the output of a factory radio or small amplifier directly to the PM400X4 without the need for a line output converter.

Each pair of channels has a crossover function switch that selects between high-pass, low-pass, or full-range operation. The associated frequency control is adjustable from 50 Hz to 250 Hz, and the crossovers have a -12 dB-per-Octave slope with a Butterworth alignment.

Additionally, Rockford Fosgate included a Punch EQ2 control with each pair of channels. Your installer can dial in up to 18 dB of boost at 45 Hz and 12 dB at 12.5 kHz to give your music a little kick or sizzle. In a marine application, the added high-frequency output can be very beneficial to systems where the speakers are mounted low under the seats.

Keeping Things C.L.E.A.N.

The PM400X4 includes Rockford Fosgate’s C.L.E.A.N. distortion-detecting circuitry on each channel. The amp features an input clip indicator LED beside the RCA jacks to optimize signal-to-noise performance. Each pair of channels has an output clip indicator to let your installer know when the amp reaches maximum output. Setting up an amp with the C.L.E.A.N. circuitry saves time and eliminates clipping, which can add unwanted high-frequency content and damage tweeters.

Element Ready Design

We’ve mentioned the UV-resistant powder coat finish and the stainless-steel terminal hardware. These are just part of the Element Ready design of the PM400X4. Additionally, the circuit board has a two-part epoxy coating that helps eliminate corrosion from exposure to salt, as you’d find near the ocean. The epoxy, combined with hot melt adhesive around significant components like the power supply capacitors, ensures that vibrations and impacts won’t damage the circuit board.

Upgrade Your Marine Entertainment System Today!

If you are interested in having an audio system upgrade designed for your boat, drop by a local Rockford Fosgate retailer. They can combine speakers, subwoofers, and a source with high-quality amplifiers like the Punch PM400X4 to create a system that will sound amazing and last for years.

To find an authorized retailer near you, use the locator tool on the Rockford Fosgate website. While you are online, check out their Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube feeds to stay up to date with the latest product releases and cool event coverage.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2

Having a great-sounding audio system on your boat is one of the best ways to improve your time on the lake or ocean. Rockford Fosgate is an industry leader in marine audio products. Their speakers, subwoofers, source units and amplifiers are at the heart of some of the best-sounding boats on the water. Let’s check out the Punch Series M2-200X2 amplifier in this product spotlight.

Specifications of the Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2

The M2-200X2 is a two-channel amplifier that’s rated to produce 50 watts of power per channel into four-ohm loads. When the load impedance is two ohms, power output increases to 100 watts per channel. The amp can be bridged to deliver 200 watts of power into a single four-ohm load.

From a perspective of performance, Rockford Fosgate rates the amp as having a bandwidth of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a THD spec of < 1.0%. Having tested several Punch amplifiers in our labs, we know that they dramatically outperform these modest specifications. We’ve seen frequency response measurements that are within 3dB to well below 5 Hz, and THD numbers in the <0.02% range. Punch and Power series amplifiers not only measure well on the bench, but they also sound excellent.

Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2 — The M2-200X2 is a two-channel amplifier designed to withstand the challenges of marine applications.

Marine Stereo Amplifier Features

The M2-200X2 is based on the same cast aluminum heatsink design as the Punch Series amplifiers. These high-mass heatsinks are a key component in determining reliability and thermal stability at high power levels. Indeed, there are many compact amps on the market that make similar power claims. However, we doubt they will play at full power for more than 30 minutes without overheating.

The M2-200X2 has a footprint of 6.8 by 8.1 inches and stands 1.9 inches tall. All the power, signal and speaker connections are made along the front edge of the amp to keep the installation tidy. Angled terminal blocks accept 4-AWG power and ground connections, while a smaller block accommodates at least 12-AWG speaker cables.

The amplifier has a pair of RCA input jacks that will accept up to 4 volts. Adjacent to the speaker jacks is a Molex plug for speaker-level inputs. This will take up to 12 volts of signal. The amp has an Auto Remote Turn-On feature that monitors the inputs for the presence of the BTL offset voltage from a head unit or similar amplifier. This is an excellent feature if your installer is connecting the amp to a radio that doesn’t have RCA outputs.

Signal Processing

The Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2 has a variable crossover that can be adjusted from 50 Hz to 250 Hz. The slope is -12 dB per Octave and features a Butterworth alignment. A switch on the top of the amp allows your installer to select between high-pass or low-pass operation, or to bypass the filtering completely.

The M2-200X2 features Rockford Fosgate’s C.L.E.A.N. circuit on both the input and output, allowing your installer to optimize the amplifier’s power and noise performance. The C.L.E.A.N. LED indicators illuminate when maximum power is achieved.

Element Ready Design

Rockford Fosgate rates the M2-200X2 as being Element Ready. In this application, the amp is constructed with corrosion-resistant materials like a UV-resistant powder-coated cast aluminum heatsink and corrosion-resistant zinc nickel-plated brass hardware. Where the moniker becomes more critical is the use of a conformal coating on the circuit board to prevent corrosion in environments with high salt content. Furthermore, the board and its attached components can withstand impacts and vibrations that would cause problems with lesser products. If your boat takes a pounding as you jump over waves, then this physical stability is crucial to the longevity of your marine audio system.

Upgrade Your Boat with Rockford Fosgate Marine Audio

If you are shopping for a great-sounding, reliable amplifier to upgrade your marine audio system, drop by a local authorized Rockford Fosgate retailer and ask about the M2-200X2. This stereo amplifier is an ideal solution for powering a few sets of speakers or a subwoofer. In fact, running two of them would make for a perfect two-way marine audio system that can play for hours and hours.

Visit the Rockford Fosgate website and use their dealer locator to find a shop near where you live. While online, be sure to follow Rockford Fosgate on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to learn about their impressive marine audio upgrade solutions.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1

The 2024 and newer Polaris RZR XP is an extremely popular side-by-side. It combines power, utility and usability to make a day on the trails exciting and enjoyable. If you want to improve your adventure, an audio system upgrade is the perfect choice. Rockford Fosgate offers audio upgrade packages specifically designed for the 2024 and later RZR XP models, ranging from a source unit and pair of speakers to a comprehensive system complete with subwoofers. Let’s take a look at the affordable Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1 audio system.

Features of the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1

The RZR24XP-STG1 is the perfect starting point to add music to your Polaris RZR XP side-by-side. The 100-watt audio kit includes a source unit, front speakers, a dash kit, speaker enclosures, and all the wiring your installer will need.

The heart of the system is the PMX-1 media receiver. The PMX-1 features a 2.3-inch monochrome dot matrix display, allowing you to see which station you are tuned to or what track is playing. It includes an AM and FM receiver and can tune into the local weather band channels. A USB port can be used to charge your smartphone or play MP3 or WMA digital audio files from a USB memory stick. The PMX-1 features Bluetooth audio streaming capabilities, allowing you to play music from Spotify, Tidal, iHeartRadio, or Pandora on your smartphone, as well as songs from a portable media player. The radio also features a stereo auxiliary input.

In terms of design, the front of the PMX-1 features a 9H hardness glass screen, which helps maintain its classy appearance. It has an IPX6 water intrusion rating, so you don’t have to worry about it getting the occasional splash. As with all motorsport components from Rockford Fosgate, the design is Element Ready™, meaning it can handle prolonged UV exposure without fading, chalking or cracking. It can also handle intense vibrations and impacts.

The radio features a built-in four-channel amplifier, allowing you to upgrade the audio system at any time with rear moto-cans. Each amplifier channel can produce up to 25 watts of power. The radio also features front and rear preamp outputs, allowing you to add an amplifier, such as the M5-800X4 or M5-1500X5.

Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1 — The PMX-1 media receiver mounts in the center of the dash using the included RZR24XP-DK dash kit.

Polaris RZR XP Speaker Solution

The Stage 1 100-watt audio kit also includes a set of 6.5-inch M0-65B marine speakers. These speakers are rated to handle 65 watts of continuous power with peaks of up to 250 watts. They are built on an ASA plastic frame and grille, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion. The woofer cones are formed from a mineral-filled polypropylene that’s also UV resistant. The surrounds are made from a Santoprene synthetic rubber to ensure excellent performance for decades. Rockford Fosgate’s Vertical Attach Surround Technique (VAST) design provides these speakers with a significantly larger surface area than competing designs, making them more efficient and capable of producing greater bass output. At the center of the speaker is a 0.5-inch LCP balanced dome tweeter, designed to deliver smooth, detailed high-frequency performance.

Rockford Fosgate has worked closely with Polaris to design these audio upgrade packages. As such, the kit includes a set of RZR24XP-FSE injection-molded front speaker enclosures. The enclosures bolt to the dash sides, serving as an ideal home for the speakers. Crucially, the design doesn’t occupy space in the vehicle, so legroom isn’t affected.

Upgrade Your Polaris RZR XP Today!

If you are craving great music to accompany your next trail adventure, visit an authorized Rockford Fosgate retailer today and inquire about the RZR24XP-STG1. You can check the online compatibility chart beforehand to ensure your side-by-side is compatible.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Remote Starter Smartphone Control Available Just In Time For Winter

With the colder weather upon us, the mobile electronics industry is shifting its focus from audio systems to remote car starters. When it comes to buying a remote car starter, the biggest decision consumers have to make is how much range they need. If you are looking for the ultimate in convenience, a telematics system that uses your smartphone to communicate with the remote starter system is the epitome of control solutions. Let’s look at how smartphone control systems work and some of the options they provide.

How Smartphone Remote Starters Work

Remote Starter Smartphone Control — Unlock the potential of your remote car starter range with a smartphone.

A remote car starter is, in concept, a very simple premise. Pressing a button on a radio-frequency remote control tells a control module (or two) in your car, truck or SUV to start. A limitation of this technology is range – that’s the distance between you and your vehicle where commands from the remote work reliably. If you are farther away than your remote control allows, your vehicle won’t start.

A few years ago, someone came up with the idea to use a cellular radio to transmit information to and from your remote car starter system. This cellular radio uses the same technology as your cell phone but foregoes the ability to transmit audio. Pressing a button on your phone’s screen transmits a command to the system’s network server using your cellular data connection. The server authenticates your user account, then forwards that command to the cellular radio in the car through a cell phone carrier. Once the module in the car receives the signal, it tells the remote car starter to begin the starting sequence. While this sounds complicated, the entire process typically takes less than 20 seconds.

Two-Way Communication

Once the car starts successfully, the control module in the car sends a confirmation back to the server, which relays that message to the app on your phone. The application will display an icon or message that shows the vehicle has started. This bidirectional confirmation lets you know when your vehicle has completed any requested task. Door locking, unlocking, power trunk release and system auxiliary outputs are controllable from within most applications.

Added Features and Functions

Once you have the control module in your vehicle, many additional functions can be performed. While some remote starter systems require additional hardware, you can usually check the temperature of the vehicle interior or request the vehicle’s battery voltage from the app.

Some premium control modules include a compact GPS receiver. Pressing a button on the smartphone app will send a request for the GPS receiver to provide the vehicle location. The app will display the location on a map and will typically include the vehicle’s speed and heading. The location is typically accurate to within a few meters and can be as detailed as letting you know which side of your driveway the car is parked on.

Security Features

Most applications include the ability to configure alerts that use location information. Geofencing will send you an alert if your vehicle enters or exits a preset area. Perhaps one of your kids is supposed to stay within the city limits when he or she borrows a vehicle. Some systems provide automatic alerts if the vehicle changes location without having been unlocked first. This warning is often a sign that someone is trying to tow your vehicle.

Most cellular control modules will work with security systems as well. You can arm or disarm the system using the app. If the alarm is triggered, a warning will be displayed on your phone in seconds. Some systems can be configured to send a text message and an e-mail as well.

Do I Have To Worry About Range?

The beauty of using the cellular communication network is that there is no real limit to how far away you can be from your vehicle. As long as your phone and the vehicle are in an area covered by cell towers, you can be across the street or across the country and still be able to communicate with your remote starter. In fact, your vehicle could be parked at the local airport and you could be sitting poolside in the tropics. As long as you have cell phone access, you are connected.

Is There a Cost Involved?

Manufacturers of these smartphone control modules use third-party cellular networks. As such, they have to pay for that usage. This cost is passed on to the consumer. Most service plans start around $6 a month for basic remote control function coverage. These basic plans include locking, unlocking, remote starting and control of auxiliary outputs. There are typically discounts for yearly or multi-year subscriptions.

For systems with GPS functions, plan pricing starts at about $8 a month. These premium services add vehicle location and speed requests, over-speed alerts and the aforementioned geofencing features.

Are These Tracking Systems?

While any of the GPS systems can certainly provide the vehicle location at a moment’s notice, these systems operate differently than a classic tracking system. Modern tracking systems automatically transmit their location to the host server every few minutes. Depending on how the information will be used, the frequency of these transmissions varies between 1 and 20 minutes while the vehicle is in operation. Tracking solutions designed for corporate applications can track mileage and idle time and can help manage maintenance schedules. A few systems include logic to identify aggressive driving behaviors to assist in driver coaching.

Remote Starter Smartphone Control Is Here Now

Many manufacturers offer integration with smartwatches like the Apple Watch. The app on the watch relays information to the phone, and subsequently, on to your vehicle. Alerts from the vehicle are, of course, displayed on your watch.

Several companies are working to integrate Google Home and Amazon’s Alexa and Echo voice control into their telematics systems. Currently, there are safety issues around appropriate security and authentication processes, but being able to lock and unlock your vehicle is as simple as saying, “OK, Google, unlock my car.”

Visit Your Local Mobile Electronics Specialty Retailer Today

If you are interested in a telematics system for your car, truck or SUV, drop into your local mobile electronics specialty retailer. Ask them about adding a remote car starter or security system with smartphone control to your vehicle. They will be able to explain all the options and let you know what the cost will be. With your smartphone able to control your vehicle, locking keys in the car or not having enough range on your remote starter will never be a concern again.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6

Factory-installed sound systems on side-by-side vehicles quite simply can’t keep up when the throttle is wide open. Even when cruising, they sound thin and weak. The mobile audio fanatics at Rockford Fosgate have just released a killer sound system upgrade for 2024 and newer two-seater Polaris RZR XP models. This 1,500-watt audio upgrade kit includes Color Optix illuminated speakers and is Element Ready to handle every challenge you’ll encounter from Mother Nature. Let’s check it out!

Electronics Included with the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6

The Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6 audio system upgrade package begins with the impressive M5-1500X5 five-channel amplifier. This potent beast can deliver up to 1500 watts of power to ensure every word, beat, and note is reproduced with clarity and detail. The amp is Element Ready, so even if you’ll encounter a water splash from a creek, you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged. The RZR24XP-STG6 kit includes a 4-AWG amplifier wiring kit to ensure the amplifier receives all the necessary power from the battery and charging system.

The kit also includes a Rockford Fosgate PMX-3 digital media controller. You can tune in to your favorite radio station, play music from a USB memory stick, or stream Spotify, Tidal, or Pandora from a smartphone using Bluetooth. You can even upgrade the PMX-3 with an SXV300 SiriusXM satellite radio receiver to ensure non-stop entertainment in even the most remote areas of the country. The audio upgrade kit includes an RZR24XP-DK radio mounting dash kit to ensure everything looks right at home in the dash.

Element Ready Speakers Handle Every Challenge

Starting with the front speakers, the RZR24XP-STG6 kit includes a set of RZR24XP-FSE front speaker enclosures, designed to fit at the ends of the dash. These enclosures house M2-65B 6.5-inch Element Ready coaxial speakers. Next, there is a set of newly designed front tweeter pods for the tops of the doors. Each pod features an M2-TS 1-inch marine-grade tweeter, ensuring you can hear the highs clearly while ripping down the trails with a helmet on.

Finally, there is an RZR24XP-FWE subwoofer enclosure that mounts at the top of the passenger footwell. The enclosure serves as a home for the M2D4-10IB-G2 10-inch 400-watt subwoofer. The enclosure is ported to maximize efficiency and extend low-frequency output. However, Rockford Fosgate includes a port cap for the enclosure vent to seal it up when you plan on getting things really wet.

Moving to the rear speakers, the RZR24XP-STG6 features a pair of RZR24XP-RSE speaker enclosures that mount outside the storage area, behind the driver’s and passenger’s heads. Each enclosure houses a forward-facing eight-inch M2-8B marine-grade coaxial speaker. The enclosure design doesn’t interfere with Polaris spare tire carriers, coolers, or storage boxes that you might add to the back of your RZR XP.

Audio Kits Designed for Performance

While integrating a premium amplifier, source unit, and speakers is fundamental to achieving great sound, Rockford Fosgate has gone above and beyond to ensure the components of the RZR24XP-STG6 kit not only look great but also do not interfere with the operation of your RZR XP. The materials used for the speaker pods won’t chalk, crack or fade, even after years of prolonged UV exposure. All the wiring for the speakers and Color Optix illumination is bundled to keep it protected and ensure the system performs reliably. Part of the Element Ready moniker Rockford Fosgate uses on its marine, motorsport and motorcycle audio upgrades includes vibration and impact testing. The pods, brackets, and wiring will stay securely in place, even on the roughest trails and jumps.

Ride Command Ready

Suppose your RZR XP is equipped with the Ride Command infotainment system. In that case, Rockford Fosgate offers a dedicated interface that works with the factory radio’s output, featuring the same speakers, subwoofer, amplifier, and speaker enclosures. This interface, included in the RZR24RCXP-STG6 kit, not only ensures the amp receives the proper signal levels but also prevents electronic pops and noises that are common when switching between suspension modes.

Upgrade Your Polaris RZR XP Sound System with Rockford Fosgate

If you are fortunate enough to own a late-model Polaris RZR XP, then the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6 audio upgrade kit is a must-have to make your time on the trails much more enjoyable. Drop by a local authorized Rockford Fosgate dealer today to learn about making your next off-road adventure even more fun! Need to verify this new kit fits your model? Rockford Fosgate has a comprehensive Compatibility Chart on their product pages to ensure you find the right kit for your RZR.

You can find an authorized Rockford Fosgate retailer near you using the locator tool on their website. While you are online, be sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram feeds, along with the fantastic videos on YouTube.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate PM400X4

Specifications of the Rockford Fosgate PM400X4

Design Features

Signal Processing and Controls

Keeping Things C.L.E.A.N.

Element Ready Design

Upgrade Your Marine Entertainment System Today!

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2

Specifications of the Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2

Marine Stereo Amplifier Features

Signal Processing

Element Ready Design

Upgrade Your Boat with Rockford Fosgate Marine Audio

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1

Features of the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1

Polaris RZR XP Speaker Solution

Upgrade Your Polaris RZR XP Today!

Remote Starter Smartphone Control Available Just In Time For Winter

How Smartphone Remote Starters Work

Two-Way Communication

Added Features and Functions

Security Features

Do I Have To Worry About Range?

Is There a Cost Involved?

Are These Tracking Systems?

Remote Starter Smartphone Control Is Here Now

Visit Your Local Mobile Electronics Specialty Retailer Today

Product Spotlight: Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6

Electronics Included with the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6

Element Ready Speakers Handle Every Challenge

Audio Kits Designed for Performance

Ride Command Ready

Upgrade Your Polaris RZR XP Sound System with Rockford Fosgate

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ARTICLES

Specifications of the Rockford Fosgate PM400X4

Design Features

Signal Processing and Controls

Keeping Things C.L.E.A.N.

Element Ready Design

Upgrade Your Marine Entertainment System Today!

Specifications of the Rockford Fosgate M2-200X2

Marine Stereo Amplifier Features

Signal Processing

Element Ready Design

Upgrade Your Boat with Rockford Fosgate Marine Audio

Features of the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG1

Polaris RZR XP Speaker Solution

Upgrade Your Polaris RZR XP Today!

How Smartphone Remote Starters Work

Two-Way Communication

Added Features and Functions

Security Features

Do I Have To Worry About Range?

Is There a Cost Involved?

Are These Tracking Systems?

Remote Starter Smartphone Control Is Here Now

Visit Your Local Mobile Electronics Specialty Retailer Today

Electronics Included with the Rockford Fosgate RZR24XP-STG6

Element Ready Speakers Handle Every Challenge

Audio Kits Designed for Performance

Ride Command Ready

Upgrade Your Polaris RZR XP Sound System with Rockford Fosgate

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