SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS:RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR.
The lightning flash 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 sufficient 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.
WARNING:CONNECT ONLY TO MAINS SOCKET WITH
PROTECTIVE EARTHING CONNECTION.
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 amplifiers) that produce
heat.
9. 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 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 specified by the manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. 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
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 filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on this
apparatus.
16. The AC plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable. The plug of the power supply cord is used as a disconnect device.
The asterisk within an equilateral triangle is intended to inform
the 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 an Electro-Voice dealer.
FCC Information
IMPORTANT: Do not modify this unit! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s
authority, granted by the FCC, to operate the equipment.
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.
2
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 3
Precautions
• If ZxA1 loudspeakers are used outdoors on a sunny day, place the loudspeakers in
a shaded or covered area. The loudspeaker amplifiers have protection circuits that
temporarily shut the loudspeaker off when extremely high temperatures are reached.
This can happen on hot days when the loudspeaker is in direct sunlight.
• Do not use ZxA1 loudspeakers in an environment where temperatures exceed +40°C (104°F).
• Never expose a ZxA1 loudspeaker to rain, water, or high moisture.
• Electro-Voice ZxA1 loudspeakers are easily capable of generating sound pressure levels sufficient
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.
System Features..................................................................................................................................................... 5
Rotating the Horn .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Rotating the Logo .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Frequency Response Graphs ........................................................................................................................... 18
ZxA1 Model Reference Table ............................................................................................................................18
Thank you for choosing an Electro-Voice ZxA1 powered loudspeaker system. Please take time to consult this manual to
understand all the features built into your Electro-Voice system and fully utilize its performance capabilities.
Only to be expected from Electro-Voice, the ZxA1 packs a big-stage punch. Electro-Voice drivers, components, and amplifiers
are legendary–all proven at the highest levels of live performance. ZxA1 wraps Electro-Voice technology in a durable,
lightweight cabinet, resulting in the most powerful and versatile compact loudspeaker available today. Match ZxA1 with the
ZxA1-Sub to create a truly exceptional professional sound system.
Quick Setup
The Electro-Voice ZxA1 powered loudspeakers are fully integrated audio systems with carefully matched electronics and
transducers. These products make it easy to set up a high quality sound system quickly with a minimum amount of cables and
external electronics.
To get the ZxA1 loudspeaker into operation as quickly as possible, please observe the following steps:
StepZxA1 IllustrationZxA1-Sub Illustration
1. Turn knob to -∞.
2. Connect the AC power cord from a
grounded line receptacle to MAINS IN.
3. For ZxA1, connect an XLR Mic cable to
MIC IN or connect an audio source to
LINE IN.
OR
For ZxA1-Sub, connect the XLR cables
to IN A.
4. Switch POWER to ON.
5. Slowly increase knob to the desired
level.
4
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 5
System Features
ZxA1– 8” Two-Way Powered Loudspeaker
The ZxA1 is a compact, powerful, and versatile choice for
sound reinforcement and stage monitoring applications —
lightweight and durable, with an 800 W amp.
• Lightweight and Durable ABS Enclosure
• Two-way loudspeaker with EV8L 8” Woofer
and DH2005 Titanium Compression Driver
• Rotatable High Frequency Waveguide
• Class D Lightweight Amplifier
ZxA1-Sub – 12” Powered Subwoofer
Optimized for performance with ZxA1, the ZxA1-Sub adds a
deep, low-frequency, amplified punch you can hear and feel.
• 15 mm Plywood Enclosure, Internally
Braced, with Textured Paint
• Bi-Amplified Design with 24dB/Octave Filter
Slopes and Transducer Protection
• Selectable 100Hz High Pass Filter for
use with an External Subwoofer
• XLR/TRS Combo Line Input
• XLR Microphone Input with Gain Control
• XLR Summed Output
• LED Indicators for Power On and Limit
• Pole Mount
• 45° Monitor Angle
• EVS-12S 305 mm (12”) Woofer for
Powerful, Engaging Bass Response
• Class D Lightweight Amplifier
• Pole Mount for Full-Range Systems
• Dual XLR Inputs and Outputs
• Switchable EQ Modes for Different Applications
• LED indicators for Power On and Limit
Specifications
ModelZxA1-90ZxA1-Sub
1, 3
1
1
53Hz–93 Hz
44Hz–118 Hz
126 dB
(2) XLR Stereo Input, (2) XLR Stereo
Output
with Textured Paint
Freq. Response (-3dB):
Freq. Range (-10dB):
Max. Measured SPL:
Coverage (Horiz. x Vert.):90° x 50° Omnidirectional
Power Rating:800 W700 W
LF Transducer:(1) EV-8L, 204 mm (8 in) Woofer(1) EVS-12S, 305 mm (12 in) Woofer
HF Transducer:DH-2005, 25 mm (1 in) Exit Compression DriverN/A
Crossover Frequency:1.8 kHz100 Hz
Connectors:(1) XLR Mic Input with Gain Control, (1) XLR/TRS Combo Jack,
Enclosure Material:ABS9-ply, 15 mm Plywood, Internally Braced,
Grille:18 GA Steel with Black Powdercoat16GA Steel with Black Powdercoat
60Hz–20 kHz
48Hz–20 kHz
126 dB
(1) XLR Link Output
2
2
2, 3
Mains Requirements:
Dimensions (H x W x D):457 mm x 282 mm x 264 mm
Net Weight:8.6 kg (19.0 lb)20.9 kg (46.0 lb)
Shipping Weight:10.3 kg (22.7 lb)26.5 kg (56.5 lb)
1. Full-Space
2. Half-Space
3. Typical maximum SPL value at one meter over the usable frequency range, measured with a pink-noise burst signal, using internal signal processing and amplifier driven to peak output.
400 mm x 444.5 mm x 457.2 mm
(15.75 in x 17.50 in x 18.00 in)
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
5
Page 6
Tripod and Floor Monitor Operation
Floor Monitor
Electro-Voice ZxA1 loudspeakers may be used as a floor monitor by placing the speaker on the integral monitor angle. Make
sure to:
• Place the speaker on a level, stable surface that is solid and secure.
• Route cables and position the stand so performers, production crew and audience
members will not trip over the stand or cables and pull the speaker system over.
• Secure cables with wire ties or tape whenever possible.
Figure 1:
ZxA1 Monitor Position
Set Screw
Pole Mount Recess
Figure 2a:
ZxA1 Pole Mount Location
6
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 7
Tripod and Floor Monitor Operation (cont.)
Tripod
Electro-Voice ZxA1 speakers include 35 mm (1-3/8 inch) stand mounts to allow mounting on tripod stands. Make sure to:
• Check the specifications of the speaker stand to be certain it is capable of supporting the weight of the speaker.
• Check the speaker stand is placed on a flat, stable surface and fully extend the legs of the
stand. Do not try to make the stand “taller” and compromise its structural integrity.
• Route cables and position the stand so performers, production crew and audience
members will not trip over the stand or cables and pull the speaker system over.
• Secure cables with wire ties or tape whenever possible.
• Do not attempt to suspend more than one speaker on a stand designed for a single speaker.
• Unless you are confident you can safely handle lifting the weight of the speaker
onto the stand, ask another person to help you place it.
• Tighten the set screw to minimize rattling and to prevent the speaker from rotating during use.
Pole Mount
Electro-Voice ZxA1-Sub speakers include 35 mm (1-3/8 inch) pole mount cups to allow mounting a full range speaker above it.
Make sure to:
• Use a speaker pole that is no longer than 1.2 m (4 ft) and mount a speaker weighing no more than 11.3 kg (25 lb).
• Check that the ZxA1-SUB is placed on a flat and stable surface.
No more than
11.3 kg (25 lb).
No longer than
1.2 m (4 ft).
Figure 2b:
ZxA1 on Tripod Stand
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Figure 2c:
ZxA1and ZxA1-Sub Full-Range/Sub Stack with Pole Mount
7
Page 8
Suspending ZxA1 Loudspeakers
Electro-Voice ZxA1 loudspeakers may be safely suspended with single stud fittings by using the MP1 suspension kit, or quickly
attached to a truss by using the CA-Zx truss clamp adaptor (both sold seperately). See MP1 or CA-Zx instruction sheets for
proper assembly and use.
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 ZxA1 speakers be suspended taking into account all
current national, federal, state, and local regulations. It is the responsibility of the installer to
ensure that ZxA1 speakers are safely installed in accordance with all such regulations. If ZxA1
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. There are instruction sheets for each EV Suspension and Array Kit that should
also be consulted prior to suspending speakers.
Figure 3:
MP1-B Mounting Plate Accessory
8
CA-ZX Truss Clamp Accessory
Figure 4:
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 9
Rotating the Horn
The ZxA1 allows for the horn to be rotated for more effective coverage if desired. The horn is factory-installed with the 90°
coverage in the horizontal plane and the 50° coverage in the vertical plane.
To rotate the horn, follow the steps below:
1. Remove the grille screws/grille assembly.
2. Remove the horn screws/horn assembly.
3. Rotate the horn assembly 90°.
4. Secure the horn assembly with the horn mounting screws.
5. Secure the grille assembly with the grille mounting screws.
Grille Mount
Screws
90° x 50°
Horn
Figure 5:
Rotating the ZxA1-90 Horn
90° x 50° Horn
Grille
Assembly
Horn Mount
Screws
Enclosure
Rotating the Logo
All versions of the ZxA1 (except the ZxA1-Sub) allow for the logo badge to be rotated,
if desired. The logo badge is square and can be rotated in 90° increments.
To rotate the logo badge, follow the steps below:
1. Using a finger or flat-edge screwdriver (using care not to scratch grille),
grip under the logo badge.
2. Pull the logo badge outwards from the logo recess until it fully clears the front
surface of the grille.
3. Rotate the logo badge, in 90° increments, to the desired orientation.
4. Release the logo badge and let it “spring” back into the logo recess.
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Figure 6:
Rotating the ZxA1 Logo
9
Page 10
Amplifier Controls
The ZxA1 amplifier has a combination of controls and connectors to ensure the most versatile loudspeaker system. Each
component below has a description on the following pages.
10
Figure 7a:
ZxA1 Amplifier Panel
Figure 7b:
ZxA1-Sub Amplifier Panel
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 11
ZxA1 Amplifier Controls
LIMIT
The LED brief blinking indicates the power amplifier is operated at its limits. Short-term
blinking is not critical because the integrated limiter keeps distortion under control. Constant
lighting of the LED indicates the sound is negatively affected. Reducing the output volume is
strongly recommended.
MASTER
Level control for adjusting the power amp’s overall amplification. The level control affects
the volume of the line input and microphone input. To prevent distortion and clipping of
pre-linked mixing consoles, the control should generally be set to a value between 0 dB and
+6 dB.
MIC
Level control for adjusting the microphone input level independent of the master level.
MIC IN
XLR input for low level signals like microphones. The MIC IN and LINE IN may both be used
at the same time as a 2-channel mixer.
WITH SUB/FULL RANGE
When depressed, activates a 100 Hz highpass for use with a subwoofer, or if the ZxA1 is
used as a floor monitor. A pen or paperclip is needed to depress the switch to WITH SUB
mode.
LINE IN
Electronically balanced input for the connection of high-level signal sources like mixing
consoles or signal processors. Connections can be established using 1/4-inch TRS or
XLR-type connectors.
MASTER OUT
Output connector to send the signal to another speaker or subwoofer. The output is the sum
of both the MIC IN and LINE IN.
POWER
AC switch for switching the ZxA1’s power ON or OFF. The LED lights after turning the
power ON. If the LED is not lit upon turning the power on, make sure the AC cord is
correctly connected and the outlet is properly working.
MAINS IN
AC connection is established via an IEC-connector. A 10 ft (3 m) long AC cord with fitting
IEC-plug is supplied. Locking IEC power cords may also be used.
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
11
Page 12
ZxA1-Sub Amplifier Controls
POWER
LIMIT
LIMIT
The LED brief blinking indicates the power amplifier is operated at its limits. Short-term blinking
is not critical because the integrated limiter keeps distortion under control. Constant lighting
of the LED indicates the sound is negatively affected. Reducing the output volume is strongly
recommended.
LEVEL
Level control for adjusting the volume of the subwoofer. The level control affects the volume of
both Channels A and B.
LOW-END BOOSTNORMAL
REVERSE POLARITYNORMAL
BOOST
The BOOST switch controls the low-frequency extension of the subwoofer. NORMAL works best
when the subwoofer is used under normal applications. LOW-END BOOST provides additional
low-frequency extension and works best for applications requiring enhanced bass performance.
POLARITY
The POLARITY switch controls the acoustic polarity of the subwoofer. When using with a ZxA1
and in most applications, the switch should always be set to NORMAL. If the bass output is low
when using with other loudspeaker systems and subwoofers, try setting the switch to REVERSE
POLARITY.
XLR INPUT
XLR input connector to receive the signal from another speaker or subwoofer.
XLR OUTPUT
XLR output connector to send the signal to another speaker or subwoofer.
POWER
AC switch for switching the ZxA1-Sub’s power ON or OFF. The LED lights after turning the
power ON. If the LED is not lit upon turning the power on, make sure the AC cord is correctly
connected and the outlet is properly working.
12
MAINS IN
AC connection is established via an IEC-connector. A 10 ft (3 m) long AC cord with fitting
IEC-plug is supplied.
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 13
Recommended Configurations
Daisy-Chaining Full-Range Systems (Dual ZxA1s)
Vocal Microphone
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
13
Page 14
Recommended Configurations (cont.)
Using Full-Range Systems as Monitors (Dual ZxA1s)
14
Vocal Microphone
Instrument
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 15
Recommended Configurations (cont.)
Stereo Full-Range Systems w/Subwoofers (Dual ZxA1s with Dual ZxA1-Subs)
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Mixer
15
Page 16
Recommended Configurations (cont.)
Stereo Full-Range Systems w/Mono Subwoofer (Dual ZxA1s with a Single ZxA1-Sub)
16
Mixer
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 17
Dimensions
ZxA1
ZxA1-Sub
Left View
Front ViewRight View
Bottom View
Rear View
Left View
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Top View
Front ViewRight ViewRear View
17
Page 18
Frequency Response Graphs
ZxA1-90
110
100
90
Sensitivity (dB)
80
70
Frequency (Hz)
Full Range Mode
With Sub Mode
200001000010001005020
ZxA1-Sub
110
100
90
Sensitivity (dB)
80
70
Frequency (Hz)
ZxA1 Model Reference Table
System Model/Commercial CodeCoverageFinishVoltage
ZxA1-90B-100V90° x 50°Black100V
ZxA1-90W-100V90° x 50°White100V
ZxA1-90B-120V90° x 50°Black120V
ZxA1-90W-120V90° x 50°White120V
ZxA1-90B-230V90° x 50°Black230V
ZxA1-90W-230V90° x 50°White230V
ZxA1-SUB-120VOmnidirectionalBlack120V
ZxA1-SUB-230VOmnidirectionalBlack230V
NormalLow-End Boost
200001000010001005020
Accessory Model/Commercial CodeDescription
MP1-BMounting Plate Kit, Black Finish
CB1Carrying Bag, Convertible, Black Finish
SC-ZX1Slip Cover, Black Finish
CA-ZXTruss Clamp Adapter, Black Finish
TSS-1Tripod Speaker Stand
TSP-1(2) TSS-1 Tripod Speaker Stands with Carrying Case
18
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
Page 19
Troubleshooting
ProblemPossible Cause(s)Action
1. No SoundAmplifierConnect a known working signal source to the amplifier inputs. If
there is no sound, check all the electronics are on, the signal routing
is correct, the source is active, the volume is turned up, and so on. If
there is sound, the problem is in the wiring, or a component further
up the signal chain.
WiringVerify you have connected the correct wire pairs to the amplifier.
Play something at low level through the amplifier (for example, from
a CD player or tuner). Connect the test speaker in parallel with
the malfunctioning line. If the sound level has gone or is very weak,
the line has a short in it (possibly a severe scrape, pinch, or staple
puncture). If the sound level is normal, the wire is open (possibly
a cut wire or a missed connection). Using the test speaker, move
down the line and test each connection/junction until you find the
problem and correct it. Observe proper polarity.
2a. Poor Low-Frequency
Response with ZxA1
2b. Poor Low-Frequency
Response with ZxA1-Sub
3. Intermittent output
such as crackling
or distortion
4. Constant noise
such as buzzing,
hissing, humming
5. No sound produced
with microphone
connected to MIC IN
6. Sound is distorted.
LIMIT LED is constantly on
or flashing regularly
7. Sound is distorted.
LIMIT LED is not blinking
8. Microphone produces
acoustic feedback when
input level is amplified.
If these suggestions do not solve your problem, contact your nearest Electro-Voice dealer or distributor.
WITH SUB switch
activated
Incorrect polaritySet the NORMAL/REVERSE POLARITY to the opposite position.
Faulty connection or
damaged cable
Defective source
or other electronic
device
Poor system grounding
or ground loop
Incorrect gain structureVerify level controls of the source are properly structured. Verify
Microphone requires
phantom power
Excessive input levelReduce the Master Level or loudspeaker level knobs to prevent limit.
Line level source
plugged into MIC IN
Source input (mixing
console/preamp) is
overdriven
Incorrect gain structureReduce the microphone levels at the mixing console or input source. If
Microphone position is
too close to the front of
the speaker
Set the FULL RANGE/WITH SUB switch to the FULL RANGE
position.
Check all connections in the signal chain to ensure they are clean
and tight. If the problem persists, it may be in the amplifier or wiring.
See Problem 1.
If the noise is present but no program material is playing, the
likely cause is the signal chain in the electronics. Evaluate each
component as necessary to isolate the problem.
Check and correct the system grounding, as required.
microphone cables are plugged into MIC IN and line level cables are
plugged into LINE IN.
Use a dynamic microphone that does not require phantom power.
If using a microphone that requires phantom power, an external
phantom power source will be needed.
Plug line level source into LINE IN
Verify level controls of the source are properly structured.
the microphone is connected directly to the speaker reduce the MIC
LEVEL on the speaker. Positioning the microphone close to the sound
source will increase gain-before-feedback.
Whenever possible setup the speakers so the microphone is behind
them. If using the speakers in a monitor position aim the speaker to the
back of the microphone.
Electro-Voice ZxA1 Series Owner’s Manual
19
Page 20
Warranty Information
Visit www.electrovoice.com/warranty for warranty information.