Cerwin-Vega CER-VCU86V2 6-Channel Class-D Amplifier

The Cerwin-Vega VCU86 is a six-channel full-range Class-D amplifier designed to add dedicated power to a multi-speaker mobile audio system. It provides six amplified channels for front, rear, and additional speaker zones from one compact chassis. It is suited to car, marine, motorcycle, and powersports-style installations where space and system flexibility matter.

At 4 ohms, the VCU86 is rated at 100 watts RMS per channel across all six channels. It can also deliver 150 watts RMS per channel at 2 ohms, or bridge paired channels for 300 watts RMS across three 4-ohm bridged channels. This configuration supports conventional multi-speaker systems as well as builds that need higher power from bridged channel pairs.

The amplifier uses a full-range Class-D design with an IR chipset and DirectFET power MOSFET output stage. Its published bandwidth is 10Hz to 35kHz at -3dB, while the specified THD figure is 0.05% at 1kHz into 4 ohms. These specifications support use with full-range speakers and properly matched passive or active system sections.

For integration flexibility, the VCU86 accepts both high-level and low-level input signals with input sensitivity rated from 200mV to 10V. Its REM/DC/VOX turn-on configurator offers multiple activation approaches for different source-unit setups. Boosted RFI rejection is also specified to help reduce installation-related interference.

The VCU86 is built around a compact 4-layer PCB with SMD construction and a conformal coating. Cerwin-Vega specifies a water-resistant design, making it a practical option where moisture exposure is a consideration. Built-in crossover controls provide tuning options when matching speakers, subwoofers, and amplifier channels within a system.

Key Features

• Six-Channel Output: Powers up to six speaker channels from one amplifier.
• Flexible RMS Ratings: Delivers 100W x 6 at 4 ohms or 150W x 6 at 2 ohms.
• Bridgeable Channels: Pairs channels for 300W x 3 at 4 ohms.
• Class-D Architecture: Uses full-range digital topology in a compact amplifier format.
• Hi/Lo-Level Inputs: Supports high-level and low-level inputs up to 12V.
• Variable Crossovers: Includes high-pass, low-pass, and subsonic filter controls.

Design & Installation

The VCU86 measures 11.24 inches long, 4.02 inches wide, and 1.4 inches high. Its construction includes SMD technology on a 4-layer PCB, a conformal PCB coating, and a water-resistant design. The DirectFET power MOSFET output stage and full PWM power supply are part of its published hardware design.

Install the amplifier in a secure location with appropriate ventilation and protection from direct physical damage. Match speakers to the stated 2-ohm or 4-ohm channel ratings, and use only 4-ohm loads when bridging channel pairs. The high- and low-level inputs, REM/DC/VOX turn-on options, and crossover controls should be configured for the connected source unit and speaker system.