KABD-4100 How do I limit max output?

[Rec Head]

I have built some powered 2-way speakers using the KABD-4100. This board has a bit more power than I think my speakers can handle. This wouldn't be a problem if I was the only one using them but I built one set for me and one set as a gift.

Is there a way to limit the max volume using Sigma Studios?

I have this power supply and have turned the output voltage down all the way but the KABD-4100 is still too much.


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[silverD]

Hi Rec Head,
The speakers look great! Can you tell us more about them?
Are you utilizing the potentiometer ports on the amp? If not, I recommend trying them. You can read more information about them in the manual. Yes, you can adjust gain in sigma studio, but you'll need to purchase the programming board if you haven't done so already.
Nate

[Rec Head]

Thanks Nate,

The drivers are SEAS Prestige T18REX/XFC (H1353) 7" Coaxial. The design is me making it up as I go along. Each of the rings is plunged a little further as the rings get bigger. The front, sides and top are walnut the back is MDF veneered with walnut and the bottom is plain MDF.

I have used Sigma Studios and have the programming board. I am using a one of the preset projects I downloaded. It has Volume, Bass and Treble controls. I have tweaked the EQ and parameters of the pots. I really only understand the basics of how to use Sigma. I don't understand where to put blocks in the schematic. I have played around quite a bit I just don't know what I'm doing all the time. Can you please explain how to control the gain?

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[wogg]

I think there's a limiter block in Sigma Studio, that's what you'll need. Can't offer anything else than that tidbit though, never worked with it myself. There's also a limiter for bass management instead of full spectrum, that's along the lines of what the OEM's use to protect their little tiny BT speakers and make them sound way more bass heavy than they actually are when the volume is down and they have headroom.

[Rec Head]

Thanks, I'm really looking for some handholding on how to set up the gain or a limiter. I have played around but don't think I have done it properly. All I want to do is to protect the drivers.

[bevo77]

recommend adding a single slider volume control with L/R connections AFTER your master volume POT4. Try VOLUME CONTROLS > ADJ GAIN > SINGLE/MULTIPLE > NOW SLEW (STANDARD) > SINGLE VOLUME. Drag icon onto the graph. Add L&R by right clicking on the box, ADD ALGORITHM > IC1 > GAIN (NO SLEW). That should result in two inputs/two outputs. Use the volume slide to cut the volume after the POT4 master volume.

I'm using a KABD-4100 in a two way setup and don't have a "too loud" issue. May want to double check your setup/wiring A-Z.

[Rec Head]

Thanks, great timing because I'm going to be installing the speakers and amp on high shelves today. I'll give it a try.

[Steve Lee]

Lovely work on the Polydefractional Rosette speaker enclosures and amp box, sir!

Inspirational, on several levels.

[Rec Head]

I'm not surprised there is a name for these boxes but I certainly had no idea. I decided I wanted to do some coaxial speakers to fit on my office shelves and went from there. The Polydefractional Rosette was all by eye. It was a ton of work but it isn't often I'm this happy with a project. I made some really stupid mistakes but they won't be seen once installed.

[Rec Head]

recommend adding a single slider volume control with L/R connections AFTER your master volume POT4. Try VOLUME CONTROLS > ADJ GAIN > SINGLE/MULTIPLE > NOW SLEW (STANDARD) > SINGLE VOLUME. Drag icon onto the graph. Add L&R by right clicking on the box, ADD ALGORITHM > IC1 > GAIN (NO SLEW). That should result in two inputs/two outputs. Use the volume slide to cut the volume after the POT4 master volume.

I'm using a KABD-4100 in a two way setup and don't have a "too loud" issue. May want to double check your setup/wiring A-Z.

This seemed to work. I can now use the full volume pot whereas before if I got to about 60% it was loud enough that I was afraid of damaging the drivers. I barely had to do any reduction using the volume slider.

Thanks so much for the very specific answer.

[Rec Head]

One more question. Turning the Volume Pot all the way down does not fully mute the system. This happens with or without the Gain block added as above. Is there something else I can do?