User Manual
EUROPOWER
EP2000/EP4000
Professional 2,000-Watt
and 4,000-Watt Stereo Power
Amplifier with ATR
(Accelerated Transient
Response) Technology
Table of Contents
Thank you
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.
2.1 Front panel ........................................................................................4
2.2 Rear panel..........................................................................................4
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.
4.1 Connections...................................................................................10
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.
This manual is available in English, German, French,
Spanish, Italian, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Finnish, Swedish,
Danish, Portugese, Greek, Japanese and Chinese. There may
also be more current versions of this document. Download them
by going to the appropriate product page at:
A50-A3830-08001
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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1.1.3 Online registration
1. Introduction
Please register your new BEHRINGER equipment right after
the terms and conditions of our warranty carefully.
Should your BEHRINGER product malfunction, it is our inten-
tion 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
and equipment with us helps us process your repair claims more
quickly and efficiently.
Honestly, who really likes to read manuals? We know you want
to get started right away, but please read this manual carefully
and keep it for future reference. It is only after reading these
instructions that you will fully understand and be able to use all
the features your EUROPOWER amplifier has to offer.
1.1 Before you get started
1.1.1 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.
Thank you for your cooperation!
1.1.2 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.
◊
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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2. Control elements
2.1 Front panel
Fig. 2.1: 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.
[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.
[1] The main switch is used to power up the amp.
[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.
◊
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.
2.2 Rear panel
Fig. 2.2: 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
(see chapter 2.3).
[11] These are the speaker outputs (channels 1 and 2). When
running the unit in mono-bridged mode (see chapter 2.3.5),
please use the channel 1 output exclusively. For further
information on the connectors please refer to chapter 4.1.
[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.
[10] The unit’s fan is located here. Fan speed adjusts automati-
cally to assure trouble-free operation.
◊
To prevent faulty operation, please assure that the unit is
kept at a distance from other appliances emanating heat.
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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[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.
2.3.2 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.
Caution
!
◊
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 NUMBER of your EUROPOWER.
[16] Here you can find a detailed overview of the individual
MODE SWITCHES functions ({9}).
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 broad-
band 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.
2.3 Configuration switches
(MODE SWITCHES)
Fig. 2.3: Dip-switches
2.3.1 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 automati-
cally recognize distortion and lower amplification until distortion
is reduced to a tolerable level. To preserve the dynamic charac-
teristics 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.
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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2.3.3 2-channel mode (stereo)
◊
The mono-bridged mode puts added demands on amplifier
and speakers. Excessive distortion may occasionally com-
pletely 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.
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).
3. 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.
2.3.4 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”.
3.1 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.
◊
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.
2.3.5 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.
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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Examples:
Parallel mode is identical to 2-channel mode, except for the
• 2-channel (stereo) playback
• Two independent mono signals, e.g. instrument signal
and monitor mix
inputs of both channels are internally connected in parallel. One
input signal routes parallel both channels, while their filters etc.
are independently controlled.
• Bi-amp operation, whereby bass frequencies are run
on channel 1, and high frequencies on channel
2 (see chapter 3.2 “Bi-amping”).
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.
Fig. 3.1: 2-channel mode
Fig. 3.3: Parallel operation
Fig. 3.2: DIP switch positions for 2-channel operation
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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Fig. 3.6: DIP switch positions for mono-bridged mode
Fig. 3.4: DIP switch positions for parallel operation
When running in mono-bridged mode, the voltage of both chan-
nels 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.
◊
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.
◊
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.
Caution
!
Examples:
◊
2-Ohm loads should never be applied when in
• Driving a single 8-Ohm loudspeaker.
• Driving a single 4-Ohm loudspeaker.
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.
Fig. 3.5: Mono-bridged mode
EUROPOWER EP2000/EP4000 User Manual
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3.2 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 ampli-
fies 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 mono-subwoofer 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 fig. 3.7). 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.
Fig. 3.7: Stereo bi-amp mode with a separate subwoofer
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