NO POWER
Verify remote turn-on, main fuse, battery voltage and voltage between the amplifier B+ and ground terminals. Do not assume a fuse is good because it looks good.
TECH SUPPORT
FIND THE
PROBLEM.
Good troubleshooting starts with the system — power, ground, signal, load and settings — before anybody blames a component.
BEFORE YOU CONTACT US
GET THESE DETAILS.
The more complete the info, the faster the answer.
Exact Ruthless product/modelFinal speaker/subwoofer impedancePower + ground wire sizeBattery + alternator setupVoltage at idle and during the issueFuse setupSource unit / LOC / DSP pathGain, crossover and subsonic settingsWhat changed immediately before the issue startedPhotos of power, ground and speaker wiringShort video if the symptom is repeatable
QUICK TROUBLESHOOTING
PROTECT MODE
Check system voltage, ground integrity, speaker wiring, shorts and final impedance. Disconnect the load when appropriate to separate amp-side from speaker-side issues.
LOW OUTPUT / CLIPPING
Confirm clean source signal, gain setup, crossover/subsonic settings, final load and voltage under load. More gain does not fix a weak input or weak electrical system.
RUNNING HOT
Check load, airflow, mounting, sustained use and voltage. Excessive heat can be a symptom of low impedance, voltage drop or a restricted install location.
STOP AND CHECK IT
SMOKE. BURNING SMELL. MELTING TERMINAL.
DO NOT KEEP HAMMERING IT.
Shut the system down and inspect the electrical and wiring before continuing. A repeated fault can turn a simple install issue into damaged equipment.
STILL NEED HELP?
SEND US THE BUILD.
Call or text 916-717-5062, message Ruthless Audio on Facebook, or use the contact form. Include the details above so we can work the problem instead of guessing.