Electro-voice SB2A User Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

ACTIVE SUBWOOFER
350W + 350W EXTERNAL SPEAKER OUT

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

The lightning ash with arrowhead symbol, 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 sufcient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.

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.

The asterisk within an equilateral triangle is intended to inform the

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

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

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose
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 t into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where

they exit from the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufacturer.

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

13. Refer all servicing to qualied 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

14. To completely disconnect AC power from this apparatus, the power supply cord must be unplugged.

15. Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects lled with liquids, such as vases, are placed
on this apparatus.

16. The AC plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.

of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than

user to necessary installation or removal instructions regarding
equipment or hardware use relating to the system.

Management of WEEE (waste electrical and electronic equipment) (applicable in Member States of the European
Union and other European countries with individual national policies on the management of WEEE) The symbol
on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product may not be treated as regular household waste, but
has to be disposed through returning it at a Telex dealer.

IMPORTANT SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualied personnel only. To reduce the risk of
electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the Operating
Instructions unless you are qualied to do so. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel.

1. Security regulations as stated in the EN 60065 (VDE 0860 / IEC 65) and the CSA E65 - 94 have to be obeyed when
servicing the appliance.

2. Use of a mains separator transformer is mandatory during maintenance while the appliance is opened, needs to be
operated and is connected to the mains.

3. Switch off the power before retrotting any extensions, changing the mains voltage or the output voltage.

4. The minimum distance between parts carrying mains voltage and any accessible metal piece (metal enclosure),
respectively between the mains poles has to be 3 mm and needs to be minded at all times. The minimum distance
between parts carrying mains voltage and any switches or breakers that are not connected to the mains (secondary
parts) has to be 6 mm and needs to be minded at all times.

5. Replacing special components that are marked in the circuit diagram using the security symbol (Note) is only
permissible when using original parts.

6. Altering the circuitry without prior consent or advice is not legitimate.

7. Any work security regulations that are applicable at the location where the appliance is being serviced have to be
strictly obeyed. This applies also to any regulations about the work place itself.

8. All instructions concerning the handling of MOS - circuits have to be observed.

SAFETY COMPONENT ( MUST BE REPLACED BY ORIGINAL PART )NOTE:

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Important Safety and Service Instructions ...................................................2

System Description ..................................................................................... 4

Safety First ................................................................................................. 5

System Setup ............................................................................................. 6

Amplier Controls ....................................................................................... 7

FCC Information ........................................................................................ 8

Specications ............................................................................................. 9

Dimensions ................................................................................................ 9

Block Diagram ........................................................................................... 10

Frequency Response ................................................................................ .10

3

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

Thank you for choosing the Electro-Voice® SB2A loudspeaker system. Please take time to consult
this manual so that you can understand all the features built into your EV system and fully utilize
all its performance capabilities.

The Electro-Voice SB2A powered subwoofer is a fully integrated audio system with carefully matched
electronics and transducers. This product makes it easy to setup a high quality sound system quickly
with a minimum amount of cables and external electronics.
The additional speaker output is useful to connect either a second subwoofer (e.g. SB122) or a
fullrange cabinet (e.g. Zx1, Sx80, or Sx300).

System Features – SB2A

• Integrated Amplier with 350W for Internal Woofer and 350W for Optional External Speaker

• Selectable Speakon® Output for Additional Sub or Fullrange System

• XLR and 1/4“ TRS Input Connector

• XLR Parallel Output Connector

• LED Indicators for Signal and Limit

• Lockable IEC Mains Connector

• Easy Fullrange System Setup with Optional Zx1, Sx80 or Sx300

4

SAFETY FIRST

Make connections to these terminals as described in the owner’s manual.

When setting up, installing and using the Electro-Voice SB2A speaker system, there are a number of
precautions that you should follow:

When Electro-Voice SB2A speakers are used for portable applications they should be positioned
directly on the oor.
Please make sure that the oor or stage is solid and secure.

Electro-Voice SB2A speakers include a 1-3/8 inch pole mount, which allows a smaller full-range

loudspeaker to be elevated on top.

WARNING: The SB2A is very lightweight and has a small footprint.
Do not attempt to pole-mount a speaker system larger than ZX1 or Sx80 on the SB2A

Route cables and position the SB2A so that performers, production crew and audience members will
not trip over the cabinet or cables and pull the speaker system over. Secure cables with wire ties or tape
whenever possible.

If you intend to hang or y the SB2A (for example in combination with Sx300), only do so safely with the
correct hardware and accessories MB200 and MB300. Consult the Sx Series Rigging Manual

(p/n 534780) for instructions.

WARNING: Suspending any object is potentially dangerous and should only be
attempted by individuals who have a thorough knowledge of the techniques and
regulations of rigging objects overhead.

Electro-Voice strongly recommends that SB2A speakers be suspended taking into account all current
national, federal, state and local regulations. It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure that SB2A
speakers are safely installed in accordance with all such regulations.

If SB2A speakers are suspended, Electro-Voice® strongly recommends that the system be inspected
at least once a year.
If any sign of weakness or damage is detected, remedial action should be taken immediately.

For further information regarding the necessary hardware kits and their use please consult the
accessory documentation.
There are data sheets for each EV Suspension and Array Kit that should also be consulted prior to
suspending speakers.

Electro-Voice does not recommend use of SB2A speakers outdoors without protection from rain or in
high moisture environments.

Electro-Voice SB2A loudspeakers are easily capable of generating sound pressure levels sufcient to
cause permanent hearing damage to anyone within normal coverage distance. Caution should be taken
to avoid prolonged exposure to sound pressure levels exceeding 90 dB.

CAUTION: This appliance has no user-serviceable parts inside. Leave any servicing and maintenance to
qualied service technicians only.

5

SYSTEM SETUP

To get the SB2A into operation as quickly as possible, please observe the following steps and
precautions:

• Plug the 3-terminal IEC-standard AC cable into a grounded line receptacle. Extension cords can

be used to lengthen the AC cable as necessary but make sure that they are 3-conductor 14 gauge
or greater, and that they are properly grounded to avoid electrical hazards and extraneous noise.

• Be sure that the SB2A is plugged into an AC power source that is capable of supplying the correct

voltage. If the line voltage drops too much, the built-in ampliers won’t be able to develop their
rated power and sound quality will suffer.

• Under high signal conditions, the 120V SB2A amplier can draw 3 - 4 amps of current (2 amps

at 230V). Be cautious of what else is plugged into the same electrical service line to avoid electrical
problems and poor performance.

CAUTION: Before turning the power on, make sure that the level controls are down to
avoid transients or unexpected loud sound.

Caution: For trouble - free operation exceeding a maximum ambient temperature of
+40°C (104°F) is not permissible.

This is a Class A product acording to FCC rules. In a domestic environment this product my
cause radio interferences in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

6

AMPLIFIER CONTROLS

LEVEL

dB-scaled level control for adjusting the power amp’s overall amplication.
The level control affects the volume of the internal subwoofer as well as the AMP OUT
connector.
To prevent distortion and clipping of pre-linked mixing consoles, the control should
generally be set to a value between 0dB and +6dB.

LIMIT

The LED brief blinking indicates that the power amplier is operated at its limits.
Short-term blinking is uncritical, because the integrated limiter keeps distortion under control.
Constant lighting of the LED indicates that the sound is negatively affected. Reducing
the output volume is strongly recommended.

SIGNAL

indicates that an audio signal is present at the input.
It lights even if the level control is at its minimum position.

OUTPUT

This connector is connected in parallel to the input allowing the through connection of
the input audio signal.

INPUT

Electronically balanced input for the connection of high-level signal sources like mixing
consoles or signal processors. Connections can be established using 1/4” TRS or
XLR-type connectors.

Caution:
To prevent the occurrence of spurious noise, prior to connecting/disconnecting
the input, set the level control to its counterclockwise stop.

AMP OUT

Output socket for conecting an external speaker cabinet. Before plugging in you have
to set the mode switch to it’s correct position:

SUB: Connection of a passive subwoofer (e.g. SB122).
TOP: Connection of a passive mid-high-range cabinet (e.g. Zx1, Sx80, Sx300).

The chosen mode is displayed by the associated LED.
If neither LEDs light up after activation of the power switch, please contact your
dealer.
The AMP OUT connector is dedicated for one speaker system with a minimum
impedance of 8 ohms.

POWER

AC switch for switching the SB2A’s power ON or OFF.
The switch lights after turning the power ON. If the switch is not lit upon turning the
power on, make sure that the AC cord is correctly connected and the outlet is properly
working. If the switch still fails to light, please contact your dealer.

MAINS IN
AC connection is established via a locking IEC-connector.
A 20' (5m) long AC cord with tting IEC-plug is supplied.

To unplug the mains cord, you have to push the yellow button to unlock the
connection!

If the supplied cable is lost, you may also use a standard IEC-cable without locking­mechanism.

7

FCC Information

1. IMPORTANT:

Do not modify this unit! Changes or modications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority, granted by the FCC, to operate the equipment.

2. NOTE:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A 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.

8

SPECIFICATIONS

Freq. Response1 (-3 dB): 55 Hz - 165 Hz

1

Freq. Range
Hipass Amplier Frequency Range: 66 Hz - 16 kHz
Coverage: Essentially Omnidirectional
Subwoofer Amplier Power: 350W RMS max.
Switchable Amplier Power: 350W RMS max.
AMP OUT Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms min.
Transducer: 12“ (300mm) EVS-12SB Woofer
Connectors:

Line Input:
Parallel Output:
Speaker Output

Power Requirement: 120V AC or 230V AC 50-60Hz,

Enclosure Material: Copolymer
Grille: Powder Coated Steel
Max. Ambient Temperature 40°C (104°F)
Dimensions (H x W x D): 23.1“ x 16.9“ x 12.3“

Net Weight: 17.1 kg (37.6 Ibs)
Shipping Weight: 18.4 kg (40.5 Ibs)

(-10 dB) 43 Hz - 275 Hz

XLR and “ Phone Combination
XLR
Speakon NL4

®

100 Watts

(587 x 430 x 313mm)

1

Half Space Measurement.

DIMENSIONS

9

BLOCK DIAGRAM

PROTECTION

POWER

MAINS IN

50...60Hz

OUTPUT

INPUT

LEVEL

SIGNAL

LIMITER

THERMAL

PROTECTION

THERMAL

PROTE

CTION

LIMIT

ER

POWER

SUPPLY

TURN

ON DEL

AY

PROTECTIO

N

& POWER

TOP/SUB

LIMIT

AMP OUT

+

-

X-OVER

LOW

HIGH

INT. WOOFER

120V / 230V

& POWER

AMP

AMP

Class D Amp Module

5x20 mm

T6.3A @ 120V
T4A @ 230V

+

+

-

­1

1

2

2

20000

10000

1000

1005020

316

100

10

3.16

70

80

90

100

110

Frequency (Hz)

Sensitivity (dB)

Frequency Response, Half
Space, -10 dBu Input

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

10

NOTES

11

Americas–
Headquarters Americas

Telex Communications, Inc.
12000 Portland Ave South,
Burnsville, MN 55337, USA
USA–Ph: 1-800-392-3497
Fax: [phone]
Canada–Ph: 1-866-505-5551
Fax: [phone]
Latin America–Ph: 1-952-887-5532
Fax: [phone]

USA and Canada Warranty Service/
Repair

Ph: 1-800-685-2606

USA and Canada Technical Support

Ph: 1-866-78-AUDIO

Printed in U.S.A

© Telex Communications, Inc. 07/2008

Part Number LIT000233 Rev A

Europe, Africa & Middle-East
Headquarters EAME

EVI Audio GmbH
Hirschberger Ring 45,
D-94315, Straubing, Germany
Phone: [phone],
Fax: [phone]
France: EVI Audio France S.A.,
Parc de Courcerin,
Allée Lech Walesa,
F 77185 Lognes, France
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]



www.electrovoice.com 

Asia & Pacific Rim–
Headquarters Asia

Singapore: Telex Communications
(SEA) Pte Ltd
38C Jalan Pemimpin
Singapore 577180
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Japan: EVI Audio Japan Ltd.
5-3-8 Funabashi, Setagaya-Ku,
Tokyo, Japan 156-0055
Phone: [phone],
Fax: [phone]
Hong Kong: Telex EVI Audio (HK) Ltd.
Unit 5,1/F, Topsail Plaza
11 On Shum Street
Shek Mun,Shatin HK
Phone: [phone],
Fax: [phone]
China: Telex EVI Audio (Shanghai)
Ltd.
Room 3105-3109, No.1 Building,
No. 218, Tian Mu West Road
Shanghai, China, PC: 200070
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Specifications subject to change without notice.

ELECTRO-VOICE® SB2A Owner’s Manual