Acoustic Research AW850 User Manual
A
Audio
source
DC IN
CHANNEL
1 2 3
R AUDIO L
IN
Transmitter
(back panel)
Y-adapter
audio cable
Introduction
Transmitter (back panel)
120V AC
wall outlet
AC Power
Adapter
DC IN
CHANNEL
1 2 3
R AUDIO L
IN
A
A/V Receiver
Audio Output
DC IN
CHANNEL
1 2 3
R AUDIO L
IN
Transmitter
(back panel)
Mini-jack to
RCA adapter
Y-adapter
audio cable
Connecting the Transmitter to an Audio Source
Outdoor Lantern and
Wireless Speaker
Model AW850
Installation and
AR’s Outdoor Lantern and Wireless Speaker System puts a new twist on your outdoor
lighting: sound! The AW850 eliminates the hardest part of adding speakers to your
home—running and hiding hundreds of feet of speaker wire. The AR Wireless Speaker
System’s RF signal travels with ease through walls, oors, ceilings and other obstacles,
delivering high-quality sound and stylish décor. With drift- and static-free reception
along with outstanding range—up to 150 feet*—the possibilities for enjoying your AR
Wireless Speaker System are nearly unlimited. The AR Wireless Speaker System is
compatible with most audio sources, such as TVs, DVD players, VCRs, A/V receivers/
amps, stereos, computers, and portable devices (CD players, cassette players, MP3s
etc.).
This manual covers various connection options and detailed operating instructions for
making the AR Wireless Speaker System a valued part of your lifestyle. If, after having
reviewed the instructions, you have any questions, please call toll-free
1-800-732-6866 or visit www.araccessories.com.
*Range may vary according to environment.
Setting Up
Unpacking
Before you start installing the Outdoor Lantern and Wireless Speaker, make sure you
have the following parts in your package:
1. Plug the stereo plugs on the provided Y-adapter
audio cable into the AUDIO IN jacks on the back of
the transmitter (make sure to match the colors on
the plugs and jacks).
2. Plug the mini-plug end of the provided Y-adapter
into the headphone output of your MP3 player or CD
player (or audio output jack on your computer).
Warning: This product is designed to work with line level outputs or headphone
outputs only. DO NOT connect it directly to speaker outputs as it will permanently
damage the transmitter.
3. Connect the small, round plug from the transmitter
AC power adapter to the transmitter’s DC IN jack.
Plug the other end of the transmitter AC power
adapter into any standard 120V AC wall outlet.
Note: This power unit is intended to be correctly oriented in a vertical or oor
mount position.
Note: There is no transmitter ON/OFF switch. The transmitter is designed to be
left plugged in and powered at all times. If you will not be using the AW850 for an
extended period of time, unplug the transmitter AC power adapter.
Operation Manual
Important Information
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
DO NOT OPEN.
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Clean only with dry cloth.
6. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including ampliers)
that produce heat.
Product Information
Keep your sales receipt to obtain warranty parts and
service and for proof of purchase. Attach it here and
record the serial and model numbers in case you need
them. These numbers are located on the product.
Model No.: ______________________________________
Purchase Date: __________________________________
Dealer/Address/Phone: ___________________________
Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user
serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualied service personnel.
8. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit from the apparatus.
9. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
10. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus,
the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.
Care and Maintenance
• Always use a soft cloth to clean the speaker and
transmitter. Never use any product containing alcohol or
other solvents as they may damage the surface.
• Use caution when plugging the power transformer in an
AC outlet to avoid the risk of electric shock.
• To clean the lantern/speaker: Shut off main power supply.
Wipe with damp cloth or use window cleaner. Do not use
abrasive cleaners.
• Bulb replacement: Replace with MAX 40W type B or
Listed 13W Self-Ballasted Compact Fluorescent Lamp
(candelabra-based bulb).
Warning: Do not use bulb-base adapters with this product.
This product must be used with candelabra-based bulbs
only.
(2) Wire
Connectors
(1) Transmitter
(2) Mounting
Screws
(2) Caps
(1) Mounting Crossbar
(1) mini-jack to
RCA adapter
(1) Lantern/Wireless Speaker
(1) Transmitter
Power Adapter
(1) 3.5mm to
RCA Cable
Mounting the Lantern/Wireless Speaker
Before you can use the Outdoor Lantern and Wireless Speaker, you must mount it to
an outlet box.
WARNING: Consult a qualied electrician in case the main supply wiring needs to be
checked or if you’re not certain how to install wiring. Always install wiring connections
in accordance with local code, ordinances, and the National Electrical Code.
1. Make sure power is off for the outlet box at the main
circuit breaker.
2. Remove the old xture from the outlet box. Carefully
disconnect its wiring.
Connecting to an A/V Receiver
You can also connect the transmitter to an A/V Receiver using the mini-jack to
RCA adapter included.
1. Plug the stereo plugs on the provided Y-adapter audio cable into the AUDIO
IN jacks on the back of the transmitter (make sure to match the colors on the
plugs and jacks).
2. Plug the mini-plug end of the provided
Y-adapter into the mini-jack to RCA adapter.
3. Connect the stereo plugs on the mini-jack to
RCA adapter to the corresponding left and
right audio outputs of your A/V receiver,
amp, or other audio source.
Installing/Changing the Lantern Light Bulb
The Outdoor Lantern and Wireless Speaker takes a candelabra-base bulb (40W max;
bulb not included). For best results, use a clear (non-frosted) 40W bulb. To install or
change the lantern’s bulb:
1. Use a small at tool (like a at-head screwdriver)
to open the top of the lantern’s front door.
WARNING: RISK OF INJURY
• Some metal parts in the xture may have sharp edges. To prevent cuts and scrapes, wear gloves when handling the parts.
• Account for small parts and destroy packing material, as these may be hazardous to children.
• Use ashlight or alternate light source to light work area during installation.
• Assistance may be required to support xture during installation.
• This apparatus must be installed in accordance with all applicable installation rules.
• This device must be connected to a mains socket outlet or outlet box with a grounded and protected connection.
• To prevent injury, this apparatus must be securely attached to the wall in accordance with the installation instructions.
CAUTION: WIRING AND FIXTURE OPERATION
• Connect xture to supply wires rated for at least 90°C (194°F).
• Do not use xture on dimming circuits.
• Unit must be mounted higher than 60”.
WARNING
To prevent injury, this apparatus must be securely attached to the wall in accordance with the installation instructions.
Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufacturer.
Level
Ground
wire
3. Mount the crossbar to the outlet box using the mounting
screws included in this package.
4. Unscrew the center screw on the crossbar and align the
two side screws so that they are level with each other. Then
tighten the center screw.
5. Find the copper ground wire coming from the wireless
speaker. Twist it together with the ground wire coming from
the outlet box.
If the outlet box doesn’t have a ground wire, attach the
ground wire to the mounting crossbar as shown here.
6. Strip 3/4” of insulation from the wire ends coming from
the speaker. Use pliers to twist the speaker’s stripped ends
together with the wires coming from the outlet box—make
sure you match black wire to black and white wire to white.
Then snip the ends.
7. Attach the wire connectors to the joined ends. If you’d like,
you can tie the connectors and ends together with electrical
tape.
8. Place the wireless speaker onto the two side screws on the
crossbar. Secure the speaker onto the wall with the two caps
included in this package.
9. Use silicon caulking to seal the top and sides between
the speaker and the wall. Leave the bottom open so that
moisture can drain.
2. Insert the bulb and screw it into the base.
3. Gently close the door until it snaps back into
place.
Important: Handle and dispose of uorescent bulbs
per manufacturer’s directions.
Tour of the Speaker System
Lantern/Speaker
Bottom Panel
The bottom panel of the lantern/speaker is
protected by a rubber door. Find the tab on
the right side of the door and pull it down
gently to open.
L/M/R switch determines if the speaker plays sound in mono as a stand-alone speaker,
or plays the left or right track in a stereo pair with an additional AW850
Music On/Off button turns the speaker on and off
Auto Scan button rescans for the transmitter’s signal
Volume +/– buttons adjust the volume level
Light On/Off switch turns the lantern on and off
Front Panel
Power/Linked indicator (not shown) blinks when the speaker is rst powered on; it turns
solid blue when the speaker is tuned to the transmitter
DC IN
CHANNEL
1 2 3
R AUDIO L
IN
Transmitter
DC IN
CHANNEL
1 2 3
R AUDIO L
IN
SIGNAL POWER
Top panel
Back panel
SIGNAL indicator lights green when the audio is
present and the transmitter is broadcasting
POWER indicator lights when the transmitter is on
CHANNEL 1 2 3 lets you nd the best
transmission frequency for your environment
DC IN jack receives the small round end of the
included 12V 200mA AC power adapter
AUDIO IN (R / L) connects to your sound source
using one of the connection options shown on
the next pages
Pairing the Speaker System
Adjusting the Transmitter
1. Turn on your audio source (for example, A/V receiver, MP3 player, stereo, etc.) and
play music at a normal listening volume.
2. Set the channel select switch on the back of the
Channel
select
switch
transmitter to one of the transmitter’s three broadcast
frequencies: 1, 2 or 3. If you experience poor reception
or interference, try choosing a different frequency by
moving the channel select switch to another position.
When the transmitter is receiving an audio signal and is
ready, the SIGNAL indicator turns solid green.
Note
If the SIGNAL indicator on the transmitter does not turn on, please check the
following:
- Conrm the transmitter AC power adapter is securely connected.
- Conrm the cable from the transmitter is securely connected to the audio source
output (MP3 player, A/V receiver, etc.).
- Conrm the audio source is playing audio and is turned up.
Tuning the Speaker
1. Press the Music On/Off button on the bottom
of the speaker to turn it on. The indicator
light on the front of the speaker blinks while
the speaker is tuning to the transmitter.
The indicator light turns solid blue when
the speaker is tuned to the transmitter—you
should hear sound coming from the speaker
now.
Note: If the speaker is on a switched outlet, make sure the outlet is on.
Note: If the speaker is not tuned or if the transmitter is not connected properly, the
indicator light will continue blinking. If this occurs, please see the troubleshooting
section of this manual.
2. Adjust the volume on the speaker as desired.
3. Set up the speaker for mono or stereo operation using the switch on the bottom of
the AW850 speaker.
a) Monaural operation: The monaural mode (mono) is recommended when using a
single AW850 by itself. For monaural operation, set the L/M/R switch to “M” on
the speaker.
b) Stereo operation: You need an additional AW850 speaker for the stereo option.
Set the L/M/R switch to “L” on the speaker located to the left from the listener,
and set the other speaker to the “R” position.
Notes:
A single AW850 transmitter can send its signal to more than two speakers. All you need
to do is tune the speakers to the single transmitter.
The speaker automatically retunes if it loses the transmitter’s signal. You can also press
the Auto Scan button on the bottom of the speaker to retune the speaker at any time.
The transmitter turns off automatically if there is no audio signal present for a prolonged
period.
Interference in the form of static and/or distortion can sometimes be heard. If this
occurs, conrm the transmitter/speaker adjustments and indicators. If the problem
persists, refer to the Troubleshooting section of this manual.
Turning the Speaker Off
1. Press Music On/Off button on the bottom of the speaker to turn the speaker off.
Turning the Lamp On and Off
To turn the lamp on: Put the Light On/Off switch on the bottom of the speaker in the
on position. If the lamp is on a switched outlet, make sure the outlet is on.
To turn the lamp off: Put the Light On/Off switch on the bottom of the speaker in the
off position.
More Helpful Information
About Fixed-Level Audio Outputs
A xed-level, or line-level, audio output is considered ideal since it provides an audio
signal unchanged by adjustments to the audio source volume control.
Hint: Fixed-level audio outputs from stereo receivers/amps will typically be
designated as Tape (or Record) outputs or DVR/DVD-R audio output connections.
Fixed-level outputs from TVs are usually marked as ‘Constant,’ ‘Fixed,’ or ‘Select.’ If they
are not marked as such, they are probably variable outputs (see “About Variable-Level
Audio Outputs” below). Outputs from DVD players are almost always xed.
Hint: When connecting to the audio outputs of a DVD player, remember that the DVD
player must be showing a TV channel for sound to be produced.
About Variable-Level Audio Outputs:
A variable-level output, such as a headphone jack or certain RCA-type outputs,
provides an audio signal that changes with the volume level set on the audio source.
As the volume of the audio source is adjusted up and down, so is the audio signal
strength sent to the transmitter. This can affect the quality of sound generated by the
speaker, and may require an adjustment of the volume level of the audio source to
produce a signal strong enough for the transmitter.
Hint: On most bookshelf-type or compact stereo systems, inserting a headphone
plug into the headphone jack results in automatic cutoff of the regular, or hard-wired
speakers.
Hint: Most TVs, regardless of age or price, have variable outputs. If you are unsure
which of your TV audio outputs is xed, refer to the TV instruction manual. Some
TVs have outputs that can switch between variable and xed. When given a choice,
xed is always recommended.
Troubleshooting
The following troubleshooting guide takes you through some of the more common
problems associated with the installation and/or operation of a wireless system. If the
problem persists, please call toll-free at 1-800-732-6866 or visit www.araccessories.com.
Issue: Cause and solution:
No sound • Check that the transmitter AC power adapter is fully inserted into the wall outlet and
No sound/
distortion/
static
Bulb doesn’t
light
Circuit breaker
trips when you
turn on the
lantern
the power cord from the AC adapter is rmly connected to the transmitter power
input jack.
• Conrm that the speaker is turned on and tuned to the transmitter—
the indicator light on the front of the speaker should be solid blue (not blinking).
• If the speaker is on a switched outlet, make sure the outlet is on.
• Check that the audio source component (stereo, MP3 player, etc.) is turned on and
transmitting sound as it normally should.
• Make sure the volume on your audio source is turned up.
• Check that the speaker volume is turned up.
• If you are using a Tape 2 Monitor output from your receiver/amp as the audio
output, check that you have pressed the Tape Monitor/Tape 2 button on the front of
the receiver. This will turn on the Tape 2 outputs, which may not have been active.
• Check that the speaker’s indicator light is solid blue (not blinking).
• Change the position of the channel select switch (1, 2 or 3) to change the operating
frequency. Then press the Auto Scan button on the bottom of the speaker to make
the speaker retune.
• Change the location of the transmitter. Place it as high and away from obstructions
as possible. Avoid placing the transmitter directly on top of or behind a TV.
• Move the transmitter closer to the speaker. Sending the signal through certain
materials, such as glass, tile, and metal, can decrease the effective transmitting
distance of the system.
• If the lantern/speaker is on a switched outlet, make sure the outlet is on.
• Make sure the light on/off switch on the bottom of the lantern/speaker is switched
on.
• Make sure the bulb hasn’t burned out. Try a new bulb in the lantern/speaker.
• If the above solutions don’t work, turn off power to the outlet at the circuit box and
make sure the lantern/speaker is wired correctly.
• The lantern/speaker is probably wired incorrectly. Turn off power to the outlet at the
circuit box and rewire the lantern/speaker, making sure to match the black to black
wire, white to white, and ground to ground.
Specications
Transmitter
• Omni-directional 900MHz broadcast
• Effective transmitting range:
up to 150 ft. (45m)*
• Phase-locked loop circuitry (PLL)
• Automatic level control (ALC)
• 3 selectable broadcast frequencies
• Stereo audio input
*Maximum range; results may vary according to
environment.
Speaker
• Push-button, auto-lock tuning
• 2-way acoustic design:
2” tweeter, 3” woofer
• 5 Watt RMS internal amplier
• Omni-directional sound
• Frequency response: 40Hz - 15kHz
• Left/Mono/Right switch
• Operates using AC outlet box (requires
installation)
FCC / IC Information
FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communication. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modications to this equipment may void the user’s authority
to operate it.
Industry Canada Regulatory Information
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and (2)
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The user is cautioned that this device should be used only as specied within this manual to meet RF exposure
requirements. Use of this device in a manner inconsistent with this manual could lead to excessive RF exposure
conditions.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
12 Month Limited Warranty
Audiovox Electronics Corporation (the “Company”) warrants to the original retail
purchaser of this product that should this product or any part thereof, under normal
use and conditions, be proven defective in material or workmanship within 12 months
from the date of original purchase, such defect(s) will be repaired or replaced (at
the Company’s option) without charge for parts and repair labor. To obtain repair or
replacement within the terms of this Warranty, the product along with any accessories
included in the original packaging is to be delivered with proof of warranty coverage
(e.g. dated bill of sale), specication of defect(s), transportation prepaid, to the
Company at the address shown below. Do not return this product to the Retailer.
This Warranty is not transferable and does not cover product purchased, serviced
or used outside the United States or Canada. The warranty does not extend to
the elimination of externally generated static or noise, to costs incurred for the
installation, removal or reinstallation of the product.
The warranty does not apply to any product or part thereof which, in the opinion of
the company, has suffered or been damaged through alteration, improper installation,
mishandling, misuse, neglect, accident or exposure to moisture. This warranty does
not apply to damage caused by an AC adapter not provided with the product, or by
leaving non-rechargeable batteries in the product while plugged into an AC outlet.
THE EXTENT OF THE COMPANY’S LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO
THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT PROVIDED ABOVE AND, IN NO EVENT, SHALL THE
COMPANY’S LIABILITY EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE PAID BY PURCHASER FOR
THE PRODUCT.
This Warranty is in lieu of all other express warranties or liabilities. ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SHALL BE LIMITED TO DURATION OF THIS
WARRANTY. ANY ACTION FOR BREACH OF ANY WARRANTY HEREUNDER, INCLUDING
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY, MUST BE BROUGHT WITHIN A PERIOD OF 24 MONTHS
FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE. IN NO CASE SHALL THE COMPANY BE
LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER. No
person or representative is authorized to assume for the Company any liability other
than expressed herein in connection with the sale of this product.
Some states/provinces do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts
or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damage so the above
limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specic legal
rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state/province to state/
province.
U.S.A.:Audiovox Electronics Corp., 150 Marcus Blvd., Hauppauge, New York 11788
CANADA: Audiovox Return Center, c/o Genco, 6685 Kennedy Road, Unit #3 Door 16,
Mississauga Ontario L5T 3A5
2. Conrm that the speaker is off by verifying that the indicator light on the speaker’s
front panel is no longer illuminated.
Trademark(s) ® Registered www.araccessories.com MADE IN CHINA AW850 US IB 01
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