MTX Audio RoadThunder RT8PT 8 120W RMS Amplified Vented Enclosure - Manual (Page 3)

(+12V) Power Terminal - This is the main power input for the amplifier and
must be connected directly to the positive terminal of the vehicles battery
for proper operation. Use caution when installing (+12V) power cable in
the vehicle. Avoid running this cable parallel with RCA cables, antennas, or
other sensitive equipment due to massive currents that can induce noise
into the audio system. It is also very important to have a tight, secure con-
nection for maximum performance. MTX recommends using a minimum of
6mm 2 full copper power wire with the MTX RT8PT powered tube.
Remote Terminal – The powered tube can be turned on by applying 12 volts to this terminal. Typically this voltage is
supplied by a wire from the source unit marked “remote” or “power antenna”.
Ground Terminal – A proper ground is required for your amplifier to operate at peak performance. A short ground
cable the same diameter as the power cable should be used to attach the ground terminal directly to the chassis of the
vehicle. Always remove paint, dirt or debris to expose bare metal where the ground will be attached.
Fuses - When the fuse blows, replace it with the same value. The RT8PT uses a 20A fuse.
Caution : Never use a higher rated fuse !
Installation & Mounting
MTX recommends your new RoadTHUNDER powered tube to be installed by an Authorized MTX retailer. Any deviation
from specified installation instructions can cause serious damage to the amplifier, speakers and/or vehicles electrical
system. Damage caused from improper installation is NOT covered under warranty. Please verify all connections prior
to turn on your system !
1. Disconnect the vehicle’s negative battery cable.
2. Determine the mounting place for your MTX powered enclosure. Hook it with the provided belts. Keep in mind there
should be sufficient air flow for proper cooling.
3. Install a positive (+) power cable from the vehicle’s battery through the firewall using a grommet or firewall bushing
to avoid cable damage from sharp edges of the firewall. Run the cable through the interior of the vehicle and connect
it to the amplifier’s (+12V) terminal (8). Do Not connect to the battery at this time.
Note : Use only proper gauge wire for both positive and negative connections.
4. Install a circuit breaker or fuse within 20cm of the battery. This effectively lowers the risk of severe damage to you
or your vehicle in case of a short circuit or accident. Make sure the circuitbreaker is switched off or the fuse is taken
out of the fuse holder untill all connections are made. Now connect your positive power cable to the positive battery
terminal of the battery.
5. Grounding - Locate a proper ground point on the vehicle’s chassis and remove all paint, dirt or debris to reveal a bare
metal surface. Attach the ground wire to that contact point. Connect the opposite end of the ground wire to the (GND)
terminal on the MTX amplifier (10).
6. Connect a remote turn-on wire from the source unit to the powered tube remote terminal (9). If the source unit does
not have a dedicated Remote Turn-on lead, you may connect to the source unit’s Power Antenna lead.
7. Connecting signal cables to the amplifier : There are two ways to supply the signal to your MTX powered tube.
• To get maximum performance, we suggest connecting a high quality RCA to the corresponding outputs at the source
unit and inputs of the amplifier.
• If a source unit is being used without RCA outputs, use the included high-level amplifier’s speaker terminals (1) using
the right gauge speaker wire.
8. Double check all previous installation steps, in particular, wiring and component connections. Once verified, recon-
nect the vehicle’s negative battery cable, turn the circuit breaker on or place the fuse in the fuse holder.
Note : Gain Levels on the amplifier should be turned all the way down (counter clockwise) before proceeding with
adjustments.