
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
USER MANUAL
MODEL:
VA-8xl
8-Channel Balanced Stereo
Audio Amplifier
P/N: 2900-300151 Rev 1

Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 2
2.1 Achieving the Best Performance 2
3 Overview 3
3.1 Defining the VA-8xl 8-Channel Balanced Stereo Audio Amplifier 3
4 Connecting the VA-8xl 6
5 Operating the VA-8xl 8
5.1 Adjusting the Gain/Attenuation of the Channels 8
5.2 Storing and Recalling Setups 9
6 Controlling the VA-8xl 11
6.1 Controlling a Single VA-8xl Unit 11
6.2 Preparing the RS-232 Port on a Single Unit 11
6.3 Configuring up to a 120 Channel Balanced Stereo Audio Amplifier 13
7 Upgrading the Flash Memory 18
7.1 Downloading from the Internet 18
7.2 Connecting the PC to the RS-232 Port 18
7.3 Upgrading Firmware 19
8 Technical Specifications 24
9 Default Communication Parameters 25
10 Kramer Protocol 2000 26
10.1 Hex Codes for Attenuation Gain Control 27
10.2 Hex Codes for Amplification Gain Control 28
10.3 Channel Number Codes 28
Figures
Figure 1: VA-8xl 8-Channel Balanced Stereo Audio Amplifier Front Panel 4
Figure 2: VA-8xl 8-Channel Balanced Stereo Audio Amplifier Rear Panel 5
Figure 3: Balanced Stereo Audio Connection 6
Figure 4: Unbalanced Stereo Audio Input Connection 6
Figure 5: Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output Connection 6
Figure 6: Connecting the VA-8xl 8-Channel Balanced Stereo Audio Amplifier 7
Figure 7: Crossed Cable RS-232 Connection 11
Figure 8: Straight Cable RS-232 Connection with a Null Modem Adapter 12
Figure 9: Rear Panel DIP-switches (Factory Default) 12
Figure 10: Configuring up to 15 VA-8xl Units 14
Figure 11: Preparing the RS-232 Connectors 15
Figure 12: An RS-485 Control Interface Setup 17
Figure 13: Splash Screen 19
Figure 14: Atmel – Flip Window 20
Figure 15: Open Configuration File Select Window 20
Figure 16: Atmel – Flip Window (RS-232 Communication) 21
Figure 17: RS-232 Window 21
Figure 18: Atmel – Flip Window (Connected) 22
Figure 19: Atmel – Flip Window (Operation Completed) 23
VA-8xl – Contents i

1 Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics! Since 1981, Kramer Electronics has been
providing a world of unique, creative, and affordable solutions to the vast range of
problems that confront the video, audio, presentation, and broadcasting
professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have redesigned and upgraded
most of our line, making the best even better!
Our 1,000-plus different models now appear in 11 groups that are clearly defined
by function: GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Switchers and Matrix
Switchers; GROUP 3: Control Systems; GROUP 4: Format/Standards Converters;
GROUP 5: Range Extenders and Repeaters; GROUP 6: Specialty AV Products;
GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors;
GROUP 9: Room Connectivity; GROUP 10: Accessories and Rack Adapters and
GROUP 11: Sierra Products.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VA-8xl 8-Channel Balanced Stereo
Audio Amplifier, which is ideal for the following typical applications:
• Large presentation audio level control
• Audio broadcast and editing studios
• PA remote audio level control
VA-8xl - Introduction 1

2 Getting Started
We recommend that you:
• Unpack the equipment carefully and save the original box and packaging
materials for possible future shipment
• Review the contents of this user manual
Use Kramer high performance high resolution cables
Use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine
Go to http://www.kramerelectronics.com to check for up-to-date
user manuals, application programs, and to check if firmware
upgrades are available (where appropriate).
2.1 Achieving the Best Performance
To achieve the best performance:
• Use only good quality connection cables to avoid interference, deterioration
in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise levels (often
associated with low quality cables)
• Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances that may adversely
influence signal quality
• Position your Kramer VA-8xl away from moisture, excessive sunlight and
dust
2 VA-8xl - Getting Started