Altec Lansing PT6021 User Manual

PT6021

User’s guide
Mode d’emploi Guía del usuario

2

FCC Instructions for a Class B digital device or peripheral

Note: 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 communications. 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.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Instructions FCC pour un périphérique ou un dispositif numérique de classe B

Remarque : cet équipement a été testé et déclaré conforme aux limitations définies pour les dispositifs numériques de classe B, conformément à la section 15 de la
réglementation FCC. Ces limitations ont pour but d’assurer une protection raisonnable contre les interférences nuisibles dans le cadre d’une installation résidentielle. Cet
équipement génère, utilise et peut émettre de l’énergie à radiofréquences. S’il n’est pas installé et utilisé conformément aux instructions, il peut occasionner des
interférences nuisibles au niveau des communications radiophoniques. Il n’existe néanmoins aucune garantie que de telles interférences ne seront pas générées dans
une installation particulière. Si cet équipement occasionne des interférences au niveau de la réception radiophonique ou télévisuelle (ce qui peut être déterminé en
mettant l’équipement hors tension, puis de nouveau sous tension), l’utilisateur est invité à corriger les interférences en appliquant une ou plusieurs des mesures
suivantes :

• Réorientez ou déplacez l’antenne de réception.

• Augmentez la distance entre l’équipement et le récepteur.

• Branchez l’équipement dans une prise appartenant à un autre circuit que celui sur lequel le récepteur est branché.

• Consultez votre revendeur ou un technicien radio/télévision expérimenté afin d’obtenir de l’aide.

Cet appareillage digital de Classe B est conforme au ICES-003 canadien.

1

The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

Caution: To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not
remove cover (or back). No user-serviceable parts
inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the appliance.

CONNECTING THE POWER CORD (AC WALL SOCKET)

I

MPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water — This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping
or splashing, and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the
apparatus.

6. Clean only with dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions. The apparatus should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug or similar surface
that may block the ventilation openings. The apparatus must not be placed in a built-in
installation, such as a closed bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air
through the ventilation openings. Ventilation should not be impeded by covering the
openings with items such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.

10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized
plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for
your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
the replacement of the obsolete outlet.

11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched — particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

12. Do not install in an area which impedes the access to the power plug. Disconnecting the
power plug is the only way to completely remove power to the product and must be
readily accessible at all times.

13. Power source — Use only power supplies of the type specified in the operating
instructions or as marked on the appliance. If a separate power supply is included with
this apparatus, do not substitute with any other power supply — use only manufacturer­provided power supplies.

14. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

15. Refer all servicing to qualified 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. For service, refer to
qualified service personnel, return to the dealer, or call the Altec Lansing service line for
assistance.

16. For products which incorporate batteries, please refer to local regulations for proper
battery disposal.

17. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

18. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the
manufacturer or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

ALTEC LANSING TECHNOLOGIES, INC. ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
(TWO-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY IN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND ASIA)

What Does The Warranty Cover?: Altec Lansing warrants that its products shall be free from
defects in materials or workmanship, with the exceptions stated below.

What Is The Period Of Coverage?: For units purchased in European Union or Asia, this
warranty runs for two years from the date of purchase. For units not purchased in Europe or
Asia, this warranty runs for one year from the date of purchase. The term of any warranties
implied by law shall expire when your limited warranty expires. Some states and/or Member
States in the European Union do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts,
so the above limitation may not apply to you.

What Does The Warranty Not Cover?: This warranty does not cover any defect, malfunction or
failure that occurs as a result of: improper installation; misuse or failure to follow the product
directions; abuse; or use with improper, unintended or faulty equipment. (For information on
proper installation, operation and use consult the manual supplied with the product. If you
require a replacement manual, you may download a manual from www.alteclansing.com.)
Also, consequential and incidental damages are not recoverable under this warranty. Some
states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

What Will Altec Lansing Do To Correct The Problem?: Altec Lansing will, at its option, repair or
replace any product that proves to be defective in material or workmanship. If your product is
no longer being manufactured, or is out of stock, at its option, Altec Lansing may replace your
product with a similar or better Altec Lansing product.

How To Get Warranty Service: To get a covered product repaired or replaced, you must contact
Altec Lansing during the warranty period by email ([e-mail]). You must
include in your email, your name, address, email address, telephone number, date of purchase
and a complete description of the problem you are experiencing. In the United States, you may
alternatively contact Altec Lansing by telephone at 1-800-ALTEC88 — please be prepared to
provide the same information. If the problem appears to be related to a defect in material or
workmanship, Altec Lansing will provide you a return authorization and instructions for return
shipment. Return shipments shall be at the customer’s expense, and the return must be
accompanied by the original proof of purchase. You should insure the shipment as appropriate
because you are responsible for the product until it arrives at Altec Lansing.

How Will State Law Affect Your Rights?: This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and

you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. Please note that in the
European Union, you as a consumer might have other legal rights under national legislation of
European Union Member States governing the sale of Altec Lansing’s goods. Those rights are
not affected by this guarantee.

The above limited warranties and remedies are sole warranties and remedies available to
purchaser, if, and to the extent, valid and enforceable under the applicable law.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

The answers to most setup and performance questions can be found in the Troubleshooting
guide. You can also consult the FAQs in the customer support section of our Web site at
www.alteclansing.com. If you live in North America and still can’t find the information you
need, please call our customer service team for assistance before returning the speakers to
your retailer under their return policy.

Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
If you live outside of North America, please visit our website at www.alteclansing.com and

select your region to locate your country’s distributor.
For the most up-to-date information, be sure to check our Web site at www.alteclansing.com.

INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION

International customers: For information regarding the distribution of Altec Lansing products
in your country, please visit www.alteclansing.com and click on your region.

DISPOSAL OF OLD ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not
be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable
collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring
this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative

consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be
caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to
conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product,
please contact your local city office or your household waste disposal service.

CAUTION

To prevent electric shock do not use this (polarized) plug with an extension cord, receptacle
or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Long slot is neutral
(ground) side.

Insert the wide blade into
the ground side slot.

2

Thank you for purchasing this Altec Lansing product. For generations, Altec
Lansing has been first in audio innovation. Today, our line of powered speakers
has received more performance awards than any other brand. In all kinds of
environments, in every price range, Altec Lansing offers sound of distinction —
giving even the most demanding customers the audio enjoyment they seek. Just
listen to this!

Box Contents

• 2 Satellite Speakers

• 2 Satellite Bases

• Subwoofer

• Wired Controller

• Wireless Speaker System Remote

• 3.5 mm Stereo Audio Cable

• 2 sets of Satellite Mounting Brackets

• Two Satellite Extension Cables

• RCA cable

• Speaker System Manual

Also included:

• Universal Remote

• 2 AAA (LR 03) batteries

• Universal Remote manual

Placing Speakers

Subwoofer

Warning: The subwoofer is NOT magnetically shielded, so it must be kept at least
2 feet (0.6m) from PC monitors, TV sets, computer hard drives or any other
magnetic media (floppy disks, computer or audio tapes, etc.).

The subwoofer is non-directional, so it doesn’t need to be placed in any
particular location. Putting it on the floor close to a wall or in a corner will
maximize bass efficiency and be sure to provide it with proper ventilation.

Satellite Speakers

Arrange the satellite speakers to suite your listening tastes. The speakers are
magnetically shielded and can be placed close to a TV set or PC monitor without
distorting the image.

TV Stand or Home Entertainment Center
Installation (base included)

When placing the speakers on a TV stand or in a home entertainment center, use
the included mounting-base as follows:

• Locate the right satellite speaker and one (1) satellite base. Insert the metal pins
of the satellite base into the corresponding holes on the rear of the satellite
speaker. Be sure the groove on the base is facing down before inserting the base
into the satellite speaker. Run the cable through the groove on the base.

• Locate the left satellite speaker and one (1)
satellite base. Insert the metal pins of the
satellite base into the corresponding holes
on the rear of the satellite speaker. Be sure
the groove on the base is facing down
before inserting the base into the satellite
speaker. Run the cable through the groove
on the base.

• For optimal positioning the speakers can
also pivot 15 degrees back or 5 degrees
forward.

Flat-panel Display Installation (brackets included)

When attaching the satellite speakers to your flat-panel display, use the included
brackets as follows:

• Locate the left flat-panel display mounting
bracket.

• Secure the long bracket to the display with
the supplied screw, washer and wing nut.
When installed, this bracket will project
outward to the left of the display.

• Secure the small left satellite bracket with
the supplied screw, washer and wing nut.
This bracket attaches to the satellite
speaker’s threaded insert. Before
tightening the wing nut, adjust brackets
to the desired orientation of the satellite
speaker.

• Locate the right flat-panel display
mounting bracket and repeat these
instructions, projecting the bracket
outward to the right of the display.

Wall-mounting Installation

When mounting the satellite speakers to the wall, use the key holes (top and
bottom) or the threaded inserts on the rear of the satellite speaker (installation
using threaded inserts requires the purchase of a universal mounting kit.)

Making Connections

Connecting the Speaker System

Warning: Do not insert the speaker system’s power adapter plug into an AC
outlet until all connections are made. Also, turn off your audio source before
connecting its outputs to the PT6021’s inputs.

To ensure first-time operation as expected, please carefully follow the connection
sequence described below.

1. Connect the right satellite speaker’s orange connector into the “RIGHT” input on
the rear of the subwoofer. If using the mounting base, run the cable through the
channel on the base.

2. Connect the left satellite speaker’s brown connector into the “LEFT” input on the
rear of the subwoofer. If using the mounting base, run the cable through the
channel on the base.

3. Connect the grey-colored DIN connector from the wired controller into the grey
“CONTROLLER” jack on the rear of the subwoofer. Note that the arrow on the
DIN connector must face up.

4. Connect one end of the audio input cable (with lime green connectors at each
end) to the matching lime green input plug on the back of the subwoofer,
labeled INPUT.

5. Connect the other end of the audio input cable to your desired audio source.

Connecting to a PC

Connect the lime green audio input cable to your PC’s sound card output jack
(typically colored lime green and usually labeled “1” or “Main”) as described in
your PC/sound card documentation.

Connecting to a Portable Audio Device (CD Player,
MP3 Player, etc.)

Connect the lime green audio input cable to the line out of your portable device
(if it has one) or to the device’s headphone jack.

Connecting to a Gaming System (Playstation 2,
Xbox, GameCube, etc.) and TV

The primary input jacks are located on the subwoofer, connect any audio source
that has red (right) and white (left) RCA output jacks to the PT6021’s red (right)
and white (left) RCA input jacks.

Note: For the clearest sound, try muting your TV’s speakers when using the TV as
an audio source.

PT6021

Three-Piece

Powered Theater System

3

Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 105 dB

Total Continuous Power: 75 Watts RMS

• Front Speakers: 12.5 Watts/channel @ 4 ohms
@ 10% THD @ 180 – 15000 Hz
2 Channels Loaded

• Subwoofer: 50 Watts @ 4 ohms
@ 10% THD @ 40 – 180 Hz
Single Channel Loaded

System Response: 32 Hz – 18 kHz (-10 dB)

Signal to Noise Ratio
@ 1 kHz input: > 75 dB

Drivers (per satellite): Six 1" full-range micro drivers

Subwoofer

Driver: One 6.5" long-throw woofer

System Specifications

Connecting a Second Device

This auxiliary or secondary input is located on the wired controller. Connect any
audio source that has a stereo 3.5 mm plug (i.e. headphone style plug), including
portable CD or MP3 players.

Caution: Make sure the audio source features a line-out jack. This will ensure that
the output is not amplified. Check the owner’s manual for your audio device for
more information.

Note: You may need a cable that has RCA plugs on one end and a 3.5 mm stereo
male plug on the other or 3.5 mm stereo plugs on both ends. These types of
plugs may be purchased at most electronics stores.

POWERING ON

1. After all other connections are made plug the AC power cord from the back of
the subwoofer into an AC outlet.

2. Turn on the audio source.

3. Install the supplied battery in the remote’s battery compartment.

4. Turn on the PT6021 speaker system by pressing the power button on the
wired controller or wireless speaker system remote. A blue EQ LED on the wired
controller will illuminate next to the power button indicating power is on.
Push the “Power” button again to turn off the system.

Note: To avoid hearing popping sounds when you turn on your PT6021 speaker
system, always turn on your audio source first.

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type.

Using the Wireless Speaker System Remote and
Wired Controller

Master Volume Control

The knob on the wired controller is the master volume control for the speaker
system. Turn the knob clockwise to increase the volume and counter-clockwise to
decrease the volume.

When using the wireless speaker system remote press and hold the “+” button to
increase the volume or press and hold the “–” button to decrease the volume.
Blue EQ LED’s will light up on the wired controller to indicate volume level. The
number of LED’s lit will increase as the volume increases to a maximum of 5 for
full volume.

Bass

Press the bass button on the wired controller or wireless speaker system remote.
A blue EQ LED will illuminate next to the bass button. When using the wired
controller, turn the master volume knob clockwise to increase the bass and
counter-clockwise to decrease the bass.

When using the wireless speaker system remote, press and hold the “+” button
to increase the bass or press and hold the “–” button to decrease the bass.

An LED will light up and move on the wired controller to indicate changing bass
levels. The LED will reside in the far right position for maximum bass and in the
far left position for minimum bass.

After a few seconds, bass will default back to main volume. To return to bass
control, press the bass button again.

Treble

Press the treble button on the wired controller or wireless speaker system
remote. A blue EQ LED will illuminate next to the treble button. When using the
wired controller, turn the master volume knob clockwise to increase the treble
and counter-clockwise to decrease the treble.

When using the wireless speaker system remote, press and hold “+” button to
increase the treble or press and hold the “–” button to decrease the treble.

An LED will light up and move on the wired controller to indicate changing
treble levels. The LED will reside in the far right position for maximum treble and
in the far left position for minimum treble.

After a few seconds, treble will default back to main volume. To return to treble
control, press the treble button again.

Stand-By

To mute the PT6021 press the stand-by button on the wired controller or wireless
speaker system remote. The blue LED located next to the power button will
turn off. To un-mute, press the stand-by button again.

It is important to note that while in stand-by mode the system continues to
receive power. To completely shut down the PT6021, press the standby button
on the wired controller or wireless speaker system remote and then unplug the
unit from the wall.

Headphones

To use headphones with the system, plug them into the labeled jack on the
side of the wired controller. When headphones are connected, both satellite
speakers and the subwoofer are muted.

4

Can’t insert the
wired controller’s
DIN connector
into the
subwoofer.

No LEDs are lit.

Controller
doesn’t work.

No sound
from one or
more speakers.

Crackling sound
from speakers.

Sound is
distorted.

Radio
interference.

Some of the pins are bent.

Power isn’t turned on.

Power adapter isn’t connected to the wall outlet
and subwoofer.

Surge protector (if used) isn’t powered on.

Wired controller isn’t connected to the subwoofer.

Wall outlet not functioning.

DIN connector not inserted in subwoofer jack.

Power isn’t turned on.

Volume is set too low.

Audio cable isn’t connected to audio source.

Audio cable is connected to wrong output on audio
source.

Problem with audio source device.

Bad connection.

Problem with your audio source device.

Volume level set too high.

Sound source is distorted.

Too close to a radio tower.

Try to gently straighten the pins with tweezers or very small pliers. If this
does not work, contact the Altec Lansing Consumer Support Department for
further instructions.

Press the Power button on the wired controller or wireless speaker system
remote.

Disconnect and then reconnect the power adapter to both the wall outlet and
the subwoofer.

If the power adapter is plugged into a surge protector, make sure the surge
protector is switched on.

Connect the wired controller to the subwoofer.

Plug another device into the same jack on the wall outlet to ensure the outlet
is working.

Verify that the grey-colored DIN connector is firmly inserted into the DIN
connector jack on the subwoofer. Ensure the pins are aligned between the plug
and jack. Remember, the arrow should be facing up.

Verify that the subwoofer’s AC power cord is plugged into both the wall outlet
and subwoofer.

Verify that the Power button has been pressed and that a blue EQ LED is
illuminated.

Turn the rotary knob to the right to raise the system master volume.

Check volume level on the video gaming system or alternate audio source
device, and set at mid-level.

Connect audio cable from the audio source. Check plug connections on both
the subwoofer and audio source. Make sure these signal cables are inserted
firmly into the correct jacks.

Make sure that a cable connects the output jacks on the audio source to the
input jacks on the PT6021’s subwoofer.

Test the speakers with another audio source.

Check all cables. Make sure they are connected to the “line-out” or “audio-out”
jacks on your audio source device.

Test the speakers using another audio source (e.g., VCR, DVD, portable CD
player, cassette player or FM radio).

Decrease the volume level on your PT6021’s wired controller or the volume level
on your audio source (if possible.)

Try a different sound source like a music CD.

Move your speakers to see if the interference goes away. If not, you may be
able to purchase a shielded stereo cable from your local electronics shop.

Symptom Possible Problem Solution

Troubleshooting