miniDSP PWR-ICE125, PWR-ICE250 User Manual

PWR-ICE125

PWR-ICE250

DSP-CONTROLLED PLATE AMPLIFIER

User Manual

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Revision

Description

Date

V1.0

Initial revision

28-06-2013

V1.1

Updated typo on wiring

24-07-2013

V2.0

Merged PWR-ICE125 and PWR-ICE250; completely revised

31 August 2016

Revision history

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CONTENTS

Important Information ......................................................................................................................................... 5

System Requirements ...................................................................................................................................... 5

Disclaimer/Warning ......................................................................................................................................... 6

Warranty Terms ............................................................................................................................................... 6

Safety Instructions ............................................................................................................................................... 7

1 Product Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 10

2 Installation and Setup .................................................................................................................................. 11

2.1 Software installation .......................................................................................................................... 11

2.1.1 Windows .................................................................................................................................... 11

2.1.2 Mac OS X .................................................................................................................................... 12

3 Hardware connectivity ................................................................................................................................ 13

3.1 High voltage WARNING ...................................................................................................................... 13

3.2 Main panel ......................................................................................................................................... 14

3.3 AC Power ........................................................................................................................................... 15

3.4 Analog audio input ............................................................................................................................. 16

3.4.1 Input sensitivity jumpers ............................................................................................................. 16

3.5 Digital audio input and link/passthrough (AES/EBU) ........................................................................... 17

3.6 Ethernet ............................................................................................................................................. 18

3.7 Speaker connections .......................................................................................................................... 19

3.7.1 Output level jumper.................................................................................................................... 19

4 Configuring the PWR-ICE Amplifiers ............................................................................................................. 20

4.1 Connecting to a PWR-ICE amplifier ..................................................................................................... 21

4.2 Renaming a device ............................................................................................................................. 22

4.3 Configuration selection ...................................................................................................................... 23

4.4 Master mute ...................................................................................................................................... 23

4.5 Input type selection ............................................................................................................................ 23

4.6 Channel mode .................................................................................................................................... 24

4.7 Amplifier mode .................................................................................................................................. 25

4.8 Mode combinations ........................................................................................................................... 26

4.9 Input channel configuration ............................................................................................................... 27

4.9.1 Channel label .............................................................................................................................. 27

4.9.2 Gain adjustment and level monitoring ........................................................................................ 27

4.9.3 Parametric EQ............................................................................................................................. 27

4.10 Output channel configuration ............................................................................................................. 28

4.10.1 Channel label .............................................................................................................................. 28

4.10.2 Gain adjustment and level monitoring ........................................................................................ 28

4.10.3 Parametric EQ, crossover, and compressor/limiter ..................................................................... 28

4.10.4 Mute .......................................................................................................................................... 29

4.10.5 Invert .......................................................................................................................................... 29

4.10.6 Time delay .................................................................................................................................. 29

4.11 Working with configurations .............................................................................................................. 30

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4.11.1 Selecting a configuration ............................................................................................................ 30

4.11.2 Synchronization options ............................................................................................................. 30

4.11.3 Saving and loading configurations ............................................................................................... 31

4.11.4 Restoring to defaults................................................................................................................... 32

4.12 Keyboard Shortcuts ............................................................................................................................ 32

5 Signal Processing Functions ......................................................................................................................... 33

5.1 Parametric EQ .................................................................................................................................... 33

5.2 Crossover ........................................................................................................................................... 35

5.3 Compressor ........................................................................................................................................ 36

5.4 Custom biquad programming ............................................................................................................. 37

5.4.1 What’s a “biquad? ...................................................................................................................... 37

5.4.2 Using custom biquad programming ............................................................................................ 38

5.4.3 Biquad calculation spreadsheet .................................................................................................. 39

5.4.4 Room EQ Wizard (REW) .............................................................................................................. 39

6 Additional Information ................................................................................................................................ 40

6.1 Key Specifications ............................................................................................................................... 40

6.1.1 General ....................................................................................................................................... 40

6.1.2 PWR-ICE125 ................................................................................................................................ 40

6.1.3 PWR-ICE250 ................................................................................................................................ 40

6.2 Mounting dimensions ......................................................................................................................... 41

6.2.1 PWR-ICE125 ................................................................................................................................ 41

6.2.2 PWR-ICE250 ................................................................................................................................ 43

6.2.3 Additional mounting considerations ........................................................................................... 45

6.3 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................. 46

6.4 MCU Firmware upgrade ..................................................................................................................... 47

6.5 Obtaining Support .............................................................................................................................. 47

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please read the following information before use. In case of any questions, please contact miniDSP via the
support portal at minidsp.desk.com.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

To configure the PWR-ICE amplifiers, you will require a Windows PC or Apple Mac OS X computer with the
following minimum specification:

Windows

 PC with 1GHz or higher processor clock speed. Intel® Pentium®/Celeron® family, or AMD K6®/AMD

Athlon®/AMD Duron® family, or compatible processor recommended.

 512 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher
 Keyboard and mouse or compatible pointing device
 Microsoft• ® Windows® Vista® SP1/ XP pro SP2/Win7/Win8.1/Win10
 Microsoft• ® .NET framework v3.5 or later
 Adobe AIR environment (latest version)
 Adobe Flash player (latest version)

Mac OS X

 Intel-based Mac with 1 GHz or higher processor clock speed
 512 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher
 Keyboard and mouse or compatible pointing device
 Mac OS X 10.8 or higher
 Adobe AIR environment (latest version)
 Adobe Flash player (latest version)

Both Platforms

For Ethernet connectivity via LAN:

 Ethernet router with spare 100 Mbps port

For direct (ZeroConf) Ethernet connectivity:

 Ethernet port on computer with 100 Mbps capability. (Recent Apple Macs: a Thunderbolt port with a

Thunderbolt to Ethernet adapter.)

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DISCLAIMER/WARNING

miniDSP cannot be held responsible for any damage that may result from the improper use of this product or
incorrect configuration of its settings. As with any other product, we recommend that you carefully read this
manual and other technical notes to ensure that you fully understand how to operate this product. The PWR-ICE
amplifier is a powerful tool, and misuse or mis-configuration, such as incorrectly set gains or excessive boost,
can produce signals that may damage your audio system.

As a general guideline, you should perform the initial configuration of your PWR-ICE amplifier before enabling
audio through any connected output device or amplification. Doing so will help ensure that the software is
correctly configured.

Finally, note that the PWR-ICE amplifier is a very flexible device, and many of the questions we receive at the
tech support department are already answered in this user manual and in the online application notes on the
miniDSP.com website. So please take the time to carefully read this user manual and the online technical
support. Thanks for your understanding!

WARRANTY TERMS

miniDSP Ltd warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one
year from the invoice date. Our warranty does not cover failure of the product due to incorrect connection or
installation, improper or undocumented use, unauthorized servicing, modification or alteration of the unit in any
way, or any usage outside of that recommended in this manual. If in doubt, contact miniDSP prior to use.

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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• Read the information for use

• Please keep this user manual in a safe place during the lifetime of the product. The user manual forms an

integral part of the product. Reselling of the product is only possible if the user manual is available. Any changes
made to the product have to be documented in writing and passed on to the buyer in the event of resale.

• Heed all warnings.

• Follow all instructions.

• Do not use this product near water (for example, in damp rooms or near a swimming pool).

• Clean only with dry cloth.

• Do not cover the heat sink. Install in accordance with the user manual.

• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce

heat.

• Protect the power cord from being walked on, pinched or damaged in any other way. Pay particular attention

to plugs and the point where they exit from the Amplifier Unit.

• The product may only be used in accordance with the information provided in the user manual. Before and

during the usage of the amplifier please ensure that all recommendations, especially the safety
recommendations as detailed in the user manual, are adhered to. The Amplifier Unit is designed for the
amplification of pulsed audio signals and the Amplifier Unit should only be connected to speakers with average
impedance that is not lower than the impedances specified in the User's Manual.

• Do not place the product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The device may fall, causing

serious injury, and serious damage to the device itself.

• The Amplifier Unit can only be disconnected from the power supply by removing the plug, which must be
freely accessible at all times. Unplug this Amplifier Unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods
of time.

• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Damages that require service

Unplug the Amplifier Unit from the mains supply and refer to your dealer/distributor or other authorized repair
workshop. Servicing is required when

1. The power-supply cord or plug has been damaged,

2. Liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the amplifier,

3. The amplifier has been exposed to rain or moisture,

4. The amplifier has been dropped or suffered damage in any other way,

5. The amplifier exhibits a distinct change from its normal function or performance.

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Servicing

Do not attempt to service this product yourself. As opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous
voltage or other hazards, the amplifier may only be opened by qualified personnel. Please refer to your
dealer/distributor.

Servicing and Replacement Parts

All service and repair work must be carried out by an authorized dealer/distributor. When replacement parts are
required, please ensure that the dealer/distributor only uses replacement parts specified by the manufacturer.
The use of unauthorized replacement parts may result in injury and/or damage through fire or electric shock or
other electricity-related hazards.

Safety Check

Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the dealer/distributor to perform safety checks to
determine that the amplifier is in proper operating condition.

Read the information for use (user manual)

When shipping the product, always use the original shipping carton and packing materials. For maximum
protection, repack the unit as it was originally packed at the factory.

Environments

Use this product only in E1, E2, E3 or E4 environments according to EN55103-2 “Electromagnetic compatibility –
Product family standard for audio, video and audio-visual and entertainment lighting control apparatus for
professional use – Part 2: Immunity”

Ventilation and heat sink

The heat sink is provided to ensure reliable operation of the Amplifier Unit and to protect it from overheating.
The heat sink must not be blocked or covered. This product should not be installed unless proper ventilation is
provided or manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.

Water And Moisture

Do not use this product near water (for example, in damp rooms or near a swimming pool).

Cleaning

Unplug the Amplifier Unit from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.

Power-cord Protection

Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed
upon them or against them, paying particular attention to cords and plugs, and the point where they exit from
the Amplifier Unit.

Lightning

For added protection of the product during lightning storms, or when it is left unattended and unused for long
periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and
power-line surges. Disconnection from the mains power supply can only be achieved by removing the plug from
the mains socket and by external disconnection of all poles from the mains.

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Interference of external objects and/or liquids with the appliance

Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points
or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the amplifier.

Accessories

Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing
serious injury, and serious damage to the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the
manufacturer’s instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.

Connecting

When you connect the Amplifier Unit to other equipment, turn off the power and unplug all of the equipment
from the supply source. Failure to do so may cause an electric shock and serious personal injury. Read the user's
manual of the other equipment carefully and follow the instructions when making the connections..

Sound Volume

Reduce the volume to minimum before you turn on the amplifier to prevent sudden high levels of noise which
may cause hearing or speaker damage.

Output connectors

WARNING: Output connector marked with the lightning flashes indicate high voltages that are
potentially life threatening. Wiring to these terminals requires installation by an instructed person and the use
of ready-made leads or cords. Custom wiring should only be carried out by qualified personnel.

To prevent electric shock, do not operate the product with any of the conductor portion of the speaker wire
exposed.

NOTE: For reasons of safety and performance, use only high-quality fully insulated speaker cables of stranded
copper wire. Use the largest wire size that is economically and physically practical, and make sure the cables are
no longer than necessary.

Precautions when connecting to MAINS IN

When mounting or connecting the product always disconnect it from mains. Only connect the product to an
appropriate AC circuit and outlet, according to the requirements indicated on the rating plate.

If a power cut occurs while the amplifier is switched on, it will restart automatically once the power supply has
been restored. All settings prior to the loss of power will be maintained.

IMPORTANT: Always connect the Product to mains through the MAINS IN connector on the Amplifier Unit.

DO NOT REMOVE MAINS CONNECTOR GROUND, IT IS ILLEGAL AND DANGEROUS.

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1 PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Thank you for choosing a miniDSP PWR-ICE DSP-controlled plate amplifier. This amplifier combines miniDSP’s
audio DSP (digital signal processing) expertise with the renowned ICEpower® amplification modules. It is capable
of high-resolution (24-bit 96 kHz) audio processing and is available in two power output versions. With analog
and digital inputs, the PWR-ICE amplifiers are a flexible solution for any in-speaker DSP+power application. In
addition, optional “back boxes” can be purchased to convert the plate amplifiers into standalone amplifiers.

PWR-ICE125

This version of the PWR-ICE amplifier uses the ICEpower® 125ASX2 power amplification module,

together with miniDSP’s input and DSP hardware. Delivering up to 125 Watts per channel or a
total of 450W in BTL mode, it is ideal for applications such as medium-powered two-way
loudspeakers and subwoofers.

PWR-ICE250

This version of the PWR-ICE amplifier uses the ICEpower® 250ASX2 power amplification module,

together with miniDSP’s input and DSP hardware. Delivering up to 230 Watts per channel, it is
ideal for applications such as high-powered two-way loudspeakers.

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2 INSTALLATION AND SETUP

2.1 SOFTWARE INSTALLATION

When your order ships, the PWR-ICE2-2x2 plugin will be available for download from the User Downloads
section of the miniDSP website. This link is visible when you have logged into the site with the account you
created when purchasing.

Navigate to the PWR-DSP/PWR-ICE software section of User Downloads, then download the zip file under the
heading PWR-ICE 2x2 plug-in - Mac&Windows support. Double-click on the downloaded file to unzip it, then
follow the installation procedure below according to your computer type.

2.1.1 Windows

Prior to installing the miniDSP software, download and install the following programs. You will need to accept
the license agreements in order to successfully complete the installation.

 Microsoft .NET framework (version 3.5 or later)
 Latest version of Adobe Flash
 Latest version of Adobe Air

If you haven’t updated these recently, you should download and install the latest versions prior to running the
miniDSP installer.

To install the miniDSP software, open the Windows folder of the download and double-click on the
PWR_ICE2_2x2.exe program. We recommend accepting the default installation settings. Once installation is
complete, the plugin user interface will automatically start. Since the software checks for a network connection
when starting up, a warning such as the following may appear. In this case, click on Allow access.

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2.1.2 Mac OS X

On versions of OS X from 10.7 (Lion) and later, you will need to inform the GateKeeper program that it is OK to
install and run this software. Go to System Preferences, then click on Security & Privacy and select the General
tab:

1. Click on the padlock icon in the lower left corner and enter your password, in order that you can make

changes to the settings.

2. Under the text “Allow Applications downloaded from:”, click on “Anywhere.”

Then, download and install the following programs. You will need to accept the license agreements in order to
successfully complete the installation:

 Latest version of Adobe Flash
 Latest version of Adobe Air

If you haven’t updated these recently, you should download and install the latest versions prior to running the
miniDSP installer.

To install the miniDSP software, open the Mac folder of the download, and double-click on the

PWR_ICE2_2x2.dmg file to open it in a new window. Then double-click on the installer program, Install PWR-
ICE2-2x2.app. Once installation is complete, the plugin user interface will automatically start.

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LIVE/PRIMARY

amplifier

LIVE/PRIMARY

amplifier

3 HARDWARE CONNECTIVITY

3.1 HIGH VOLTAGE WARNING

To prevent electric shock, do not operate the product with any of the conductor portion
of the speaker wire exposed. The PWR-ICE125 operates at hazardous voltage. For this
reason, you should never operate the plate amplifier and touch the rear of the unit.

ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE AC POWER FROM THE UNIT BEFORE DOING ANY MODIFICATION TO YOUR PLATE
AMPLIFIER.

Refer to the diagram below showing the rear of the unit. All red sections are live (primary AC wall voltage).
Never operate this plate amplifier without proper installation (i.e. mounted to your speaker).

Always plan for a clearance of 12mm with any elements of the rear of the module for a safe distance.

SECTION of the

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SECTION of the

3.2 MAIN PANEL

Connections are made on the main panel, with the exception of the speaker outputs. (The PWR-ICE125 is shown
here – the PWR-ICE250 is the same but longer.)

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3.3 AC POWER

Connect AC power using the supplied IEC power cord. Before connecting, ensure that the voltage selector is set
to the correct value for your country (115 or 230 V).

The PWR-ICE 125 must be configured for the correct AC voltage. Our team will “pre-configure” the
module based on your choice in the shopping cart, but make sure to double-check before powering on
the amplifier.

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3.4 ANALOG AUDIO INPUT

Connect analog inputs to either the RCA (single-ended) or the XLR (balanced) connectors. The amplifier must be
configured for analog input (see Input type selection).

If connecting more than one amplifier to a single source channel (for example, if connecting a subwoofer as well
as a speaker to a preamplifier output), use a Y-splitter adapter or cable. Check the specifications for your
preamplifier to ensure that the minimum specified load impedance is less than 10 kΩ/(number of connected
PWR-ICE125 amplifiers).

Connect only RCA or balanced (XLR) inputs. Do not connect both.

3.4.1 Input sensitivity jumpers

The input sensitivity of the analog inputs can be changed with jumpers on the DSP board. There are three
jumpers for each channel, and all jumpers for each channel must be set the same (i.e. all three open or all three
closed).

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3.5 DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT AND LINK/PASSTHROUGH (AES/EBU)

If using the PWR-ICE with digital input, connect a balanced AES/EBU cable to Digital IN. The amplifier must be
configured for digital input (see Input type selection). (This socket also functions as analog input channel 2 when
the amplifier is configured for analog input.)

To connect equipment with only a single-ended (S/PDIF coax) output, we recommend using a transformer-based
adapter such as those available from companies such as Neutrik, Canare and Switchcraft.

When the amplifier is in digital input mode and a digital input signal is connected, the input signal is buffered
and presented on the Digital Out connector. This can be linked to a second amplifier. This is typically used for
connecting the second amplifier of a pair (e.g. left and right), or for adding a subwoofer.

Note that the signal on Digital Out is a buffered version of the signal presented to Digital IN – that is, there is no
resampling or reclocking of the digital signal. Multiple PWR-ICE amplifiers can therefore be daisy-chained to
build more complex system configurations without signal degradation.

If the amplifier is set to analog input, there is no signal on the digital link out.

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3.6 ETHERNET

To configure the PWR-ICE amplifiers, connect an Ethernet cable from each amplifier to ports on an Ethernet
router or switch. The diagram below illustrates a typical case where the Ethernet router also acts as a wireless
base station, and is in turn connected to an ADSL/cable modem. It is also common for the ADSL/cable modem,
Ethernet router, and wireless base station to be combined into a single unit.

In the setup illustrated, two PWR-ICE amplifiers are connected via an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet router,
while the computer is connected to the LAN over Wi-Fi. The network must be capable of DHCP so that the PWR­ICE amplifiers will be given an IP (network) address.

If a local area network is not available, or the network does not support DHCP, it is still possible to communicate
with a single PWR-ICE amplifier over Ethernet by connecting the computer to the amplifier directly with an
Ethernet cable. In this case, auto-IP (link-local) addresses will be assigned. For this to work correctly, your PC
must be set to allow automatic IP addresses (that is, it must not be set to a static IP address).

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3.7 SPEAKER CONNECTIONS

Speaker connections are made using the supplied 4-way wiring harness. Connect the bare wire ends to the
speaker driver or drivers (using crimp terminals if suitable), then plug the 4-way socket onto the 4-way 3.96 mm
pitch header. The two connection options are shown in the diagram below.

2-ch mode

In 2-ch mode (also called SE or single-ended mode), the amplifier is connected to two speaker

drivers. The plugin must be configured in 2-ch mode (see page 25), and the wiring connected to
the two drivers with channel and polarity as shown in the diagram below.

BTL mode

In BTL (bridge-tied load) mode, the amplifier is connected to a single speaker driver. BTL mode

uses both “hot” wires, and the “cold” wires are not used. The unused wires must be cut short or

insulated to ensure that they do not contact anything. The plugin must be configured in BTL
mode (see page 25).

3.7.1 Output level jumper

Either channel can have the analog output signal reduced by 16 dB by opening a jumper on the rear of the DSP
board. This is used in situations such as a two-way loudspeaker with a sensitive tweeter.

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4 CONFIGURING THE PWR-ICE AMPLIFIERS

The PWR-ICE amplifier is configured with the PWR-ICE2-2x2 plugin / user interface program. The user interface
is used to manage all PWR-ICE amplifier or PWR-ICE amplifiers on the network.

This screenshot shows the user interface with the key areas highlighted:

Main menu

Used for operations like saving and loading configurations, restoring the amplifier to default

settings, and firmware upgrades.

Config select

Selects one of four configurations (complete sets of audio processing settings) stored in the

amplifier.

Device tree

Lists all amplifiers detected on the local area network.

Master mute

Mutes all audio from the amplifier.

Main control window

Contains all of the audio processing and control screens.

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4.1 CONNECTING TO A PWR-ICE AMPLIFIER

To connect to an amplifier, expand the device tree to show the list of amplifiers on your network. (If you have
more than one amplifier, you can rename each of them after connecting to it – see Renaming a device.)

Click on the name of the desired device. The following dialog will appear. The first time you connect to a device,
select the Restore Config option, to ensure that the device contains a proper set of default settings. (On
subsequent connections, if this dialog appears, you will usually select Use onBoard Config, or Synchronize
Config. See Working with configurations below.)

The user interface will download settings to the selected amplifier. Once connection is complete, the screen will
update to show the connected device:

The connected amplifier is now “live” and any changes made in the user interface will be immediately

downloaded to the connected amplifier. This is referred to as online mode.

The first time you connect to an amplifier, we recommend that you go to the Restore menu and select
the Factory Default option. This will ensure that all configurations are set to a proper initial state.

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4.2 RENAMING A DEVICE

If you have more than one amplifier on the network, we suggest giving each of them a meaningful name. To
rename an amplifier, you must first be connected to it. Then click on its name in the connection information
area, delete the current name, and type a new name:

Then click the return key. The following dialog will appear:

Turn the power to the amplifier off, wait a few seconds, and then turn the amplifier back on. After renaming the
connected amplifiers, they will appear in the device tree with their new names.

You can then click on each to complete configuration.

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4.3 CONFIGURATION SELECTION

The PWR-ICE amplifier has four configuration presets stored in memory. These are selected with the row of
buttons near the top of the screen. For more information on configurations, see Working with configurations.

4.4 MASTER MUTE

The master mute button enables and disables both output channels.

4.5 INPUT TYPE SELECTION

The PWR-ICE amplifier accepts either analog or digital input. Use the dropdown selector to choose the
appropriate type. The connected cabling and signals must match the selected input type.

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4.6 CHANNEL MODE

The Channel mode sets the way in which the PWR-ICE amplifier processes the input channels. It is selected near
the top of the main control window.

Channel 1 (L) The left input signal only is processed.

Channel 2 (R) The right input signal only is processed.

Mixed L&R The left and right input signals are summed together for processing.

Stereo Both input signals are processed separately. When this mode is selected, Amplifier mode (see

next page) must be set to 2-ch.

The input channel strips at the left of the plugin user interface change depending on the selected channel mode:

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4.7 AMPLIFIER MODE

The Amplifier mode sets how the two output channels are processed.

2-ch The two amplifier channels operate independently. In the input mode L, R, and Mixed L&R, the

same signal is fed to both amplifiers. In Stereo input mode, each amplifier channel receives its
respective input channel.

BTL The two amplifier channels are configured into BTL (bridge-tied load) mode. In this mode, the

amplifier channels are driven out of phase, enabling higher power output into a single speaker
or speaker driver.

The output channel strips at the right of the plugin user interface change depending on the selected amplifier
mode:

The physical connections to the speaker output terminals must be consistent with the selected
amplifier mode. See page 19.

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Channel

mode

Amplifier

mode

Typical usage

L

2-ch

Active crossover. Each output channel is connected to one speaker driver.
Typically, one channel is used for the tweeter and one for the woofer (or
woofers). A “FAST” configuration, where one channel is connected to a
fullrange driver and one to a woofer, is another common use for this
configuration.

R

2-ch

As above, but for the right speaker.

Mixed L&R

2-ch

This is not a very common configuration, but it could be used in a situation
where a subwoofer contains two drivers, and each is driven by one amplifier
channel, with the signal taken from the sum of the left and right input channels.

Stereo

2-ch

In this configuration, the PWR-ICE amplifier acts as a DSP-controlled stereo
amplifier. One use is when the PWR-ICE amplifier is used together with the
optional “back box” to create a standalone stereo amplifier. Another use can be
a pair of powered speakers, where a single PWR-ICE amplifier module is located
in one speaker box, and a speaker wire is taken across to a second speaker box
(that doesn’t contain an amplifier).

L

BTL

In this configuration, a single PWR-ICE amplifier acts as a high-power
“monoblock” amplifier for the left channel. Some possible uses are:

 When multiple PWR-ICE amps are used in a single speaker, to power a

single driver (typically the woofer).

 With the optional “back box,” as a standalone DSP-controlled high

power monoblock amplifier.

R

BTL

As above, but for the right speaker.

Mixed L&R

BTL

This is the most common configuration when the PWR-ICE amplifier is used to
power a subwoofer. The whole amplifier drives a single subwoofer driver with
the (filtered) sum of the left and right input channels.

4.8 MODE COMBINATIONS

The combination of Channel mode and Amplifier mode determine how the amplifier is used. Table 1
summarizes the various mode combinations and the most typical use.

Table 1. Channel mode, amplifier mode, and typical usage

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4.9 INPUT CHANNEL CONFIGURATION

One or two input control strips are shown in the user interface, depending on the channel mode.

4.9.1 Channel label

The name of the input channel is shown at the top of the channel strip. To rename the channel, click on the
channel label and type a new name (up to eight characters).

4.9.2 Gain adjustment and level monitoring

The gain of the input channel can be adjusted by moving the Gain adjustment slider, or by using the keyboard
Up and Down arrows (after placing the focus on the slider – see Keyboard Shortcuts). The maximum gain setting
is 12 dB and the minimum gain setting is –72 dB. (0 dB, the default, is unity gain or no change in level.)

The current signal level displays in two locations: on the bar-graph meter, and as a numeric value (in dB relative
to full scale) underneath the bar-graph meter.

4.9.3 Parametric EQ

Each input channel has a parametric EQ block with 12 parametric filters. See the section Parametric EQ for full
details.

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4.10 OUTPUT CHANNEL CONFIGURATION

One or two output control strips are shown in the user interface, depending on the amplifier mode.

4.10.1 Channel label

The name of the output channel is shown at the top of the channel strip. To rename the channel, click on the
channel label and type a new name (up to eight characters).

4.10.2 Gain adjustment and level monitoring

The gain of each output channel can be adjusted by moving the Gain adjustment slider, or by using the
keyboard Up and Down arrows (after placing the focus on the slider – see Keyboard Shortcuts). The maximum
gain setting is 12 dB and the minimum gain setting is –72 dB. (0 dB, the default, is unity gain or no change in
signal level.)

The current signal level displays in two locations: on the bar-graph meter, and as a numeric value (in dB relative
to full scale) underneath the bar-graph meter.

4.10.3 Parametric EQ, crossover, and compressor/limiter

Each output channel has an independent parametric EQ block with six parametric filters, a crossover, and
compressor/limiter. See Signal processing functions for full details.

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4.10.4 Mute

This button mutes the output channel. This is helpful when testing and refining your configuration. (For
example, mute the tweeter to test the woofer, and vice versa.)

4.10.5 Invert

This button inverts the polarity of the output channel. In crossover applications, some slopes (e.g. 12 dB/octave)
typically require that one of the output channels be inverted. In subwoofer applications, this can be helpful to
improve integration with the main speakers.

4.10.6 Time delay

A delay of up to 10 ms can be applied to each output channel. To set the delay, click in the delay entry box for a
channel. The delay value can be entered numerically, and the up and down arrows can be used to change the
delay in small (0.02 ms) increments.

The time delay corresponds to a distance. This distance is shown in cm when the cursor is hovered over the time
delay box. The maximum time delay of 10 ms corresponds to a distance of 3.44 meters or about 11¼ feet).

Time delay can be calculated from distance using one of the following formulae:

(Time delay in ms) = (Distance in cm) / 34.4

Or:

(Time delay in ms) = (Distance in inches) / 13.54

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4.11 WORKING WITH CONFIGURATIONS

The complete set of data that controls the audio processing of the PWR-ICE amplifier is called a configuration.
The PWR-ICE amplifier stores four configuration presets in its internal memory.

There are two modes of operation:

Offline mode

The plugin is running, but has not been connected to any devices listed in the device tree. The

“Now connected to” field will be blank and any changes made in the plugin will not be
downloaded to any devices. This is the state when the plugin is started. It can also occur in cases
where communication with the device is lost, such as a network issue.

Online mode

The plugin is connected to a device, which displays on the “Now connected to” field. Any

changes made to audio processing parameters in the plugin user interface are downloaded
immediately to the PWR-ICE amplifier. The effect of these changes will thus be audible as the
changes are made.

When the plugin goes into online mode, it checks to see whether its local state is consistent with the state of the
amplifier. If not, it brings up a dialog asking you to choose what to do. See Synchronization options.

4.11.1 Selecting a configuration

The current configuration is selected by the four buttons in the Configuration Selection area.

To switch to a different configuration, click on a different button. If the plugin is online, it first checks for
consistency between the local and remote states of the selected plugin. If they are consistent, the real-time
processing in the PWR-ICE amplifier will be updated to the newly selected configuration, and audio processing
will then continue. If they are not consistent the dialog described in Synchronization options will appear.

4.11.2 Synchronization options

When the plugin detects an inconsistency between the local state and the amplifier state, it brings up this
dialog:

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The options are:

Synchronize Config

Download the currently selected configuration into the corresponding configuration preset of

the device. The plugin will then be in online mode.

Restore Config

Restore the data in the currently selected configuration to the factory defaults, in both the

plugin and the amplifier. The plugin will then be in online mode.

Use onBoard Config

Upload the configuration data from the amplifier to the plugin. The plugin will then be in online

mode.

Help This option brings up a help screen explaining the options.

Cancel This option cancels the attempt to synchronize the plugin with the amplifier. If the plugin was

offline, it remains offline; if the plugin was online, then it remains online but does not switch
configurations.

4.11.3 Saving and loading configurations

Configurations can be saved to and loaded from files. Each configuration is stored in a separate file. It is strongly
recommended that each configuration programmed into the PWR-ICE amplifier be saved to a file, to ensure that
the configuration is not lost if the PWR-ICE amplifier is inadvertently reset.

To save the currently selected configuration to a file, drop down the File menu, then select Save and then Save
current configuration. In the file box, select a location and name of the file, and save it.

To load a configuration, first select the configuration preset that you wish to load the parameters into. Then
drop down the File menu, select Load, and then Load configuration to current slot.

If the plugin is online, the loaded configuration data will be downloaded to the PWR-ICE amplifier immediately,
and audio processing will recommence with the new settings. If the plugin is offline, the configuration data will
be loaded into the user interface only.

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To copy a configuration from one preset to another, save the configuration to a file, then select a
different configuration preset and reload the file.

4.11.4 Restoring to defaults

Configurations can be reset to the factory defaults from the Restore menu. There are two options:

Factory Default

Reset all four configuration presets to the factory default settings.

Current Configuration Only

Reset only the currently selected configuration preset to the factory default settings.

If the plugin is online, the reset data will be downloaded to the amplifier immediately. Otherwise, the reset will
take place in the user interface only.

Each configuration should be selected and checked/initialized prior to connecting loudspeakers to
the PWR-ICE amplifier.

4.12 KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

The PWR-ICE amplifier user interface supports the use of the keyboard for many operations.

Tab The Tab key moves the focus from the current user interface element to the next. A light blue

surrounding box usually indicates the user interface element with the focus. For example, after
changing the frequency of parametric filter, the Tab key moves the focus to the gain control, so
that the arrow keys can be used to change that channel’s gain. Shift-Tab moves the focus in the
opposite direction.

Up/down arrows

The up/down arrow keys adjust the value of many parameters:

 Output channel gain
 Crossover frequency and filter type
 PEQ filter frequency, gain, and Q

Space The Space bar toggles buttons that have two states, such as Bypass, Invert, and Mute. If the

focus is on a control button such as PEQ, Xover, or Comp, the Space bar opens the relevant
control screen.

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5 SIGNAL PROCESSING FUNCTIONS

5.1 PARAMETRIC EQ

There is a parametric EQ (PEQ) block on each input channel and on each output channel. The input channel
blocks each provide twelve parametric filters, while the output channel blocks each provide six parametric
filters. A parametric filter can be set to a peaking boost or cut filter, high shelf filter, or low shelf filter.

The top section of the control panel shows the overall response curve of all six PEQ filters. Hovering the mouse
over the curve brings up an overlay showing the frequency and the gain at that frequency.

The example above shows (by way of example, this is not a typical setting) a response curve with four filters:

 A low-shelf filter with 6 dB boost, centered at 50 Hz
 A peaking filter with 6 dB cut (gain set to a negative value), centered at 300 Hz
 A peaking filter with 6 dB boost, centered at 2 kHz
 A high-shelf filter with 6 dB cut (gain set to a negative value), centered at 10 kHz

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In detail, the parameters are as follows:

EQ band selection

Click on the radio buttons EQ1, EQ2, etc. to display the parameters for that filter.

Basic/Advanced

By default, each filter is in basic mode, and shows the controls described below. Advanced mode

enables custom biquad programming for almost infinite flexibility in filter implementation. This
is described in Custom biquad programming.

Filter type

PEAK Create a dip or a peak in the frequency response.

LOW_SHELF Reduce or increase part of the frequency spectrum below a given frequency.

HIGH_SHELF Reduce or increase part of the frequency spectrum above a given frequency.

SUB_EQ Create a dip or a peak in the frequency response at low frequencies (10 to 50

Hz). This filter type is similar to PEAK but gives more accurate results for low
frequencies. Note that activating any SUB_EQ filter reduces the number of
available filters in that block by one.

Frequency

For the PEAK filter type, this is the center frequency of the peak or dip. For the HIGH_SHELF and

LOW_SHELF filter types, this is the frequency at which the gain is half of the set value.

Gain

For the PEAK filter type, this is the gain in dB at the center frequency. For the HIGH_SHELF and

LOW_SHELF filter types, this is the gain in dB reached at high or low frequencies respectively. A
filter has no effect if its gain is set to 0. Gain can be adjusted in increments of 0.1 dB up to +/- 16
dB.

Q

Q controls the “sharpness” of the filter. For the PEAK filter type, lower Q gives a shallower peak

or dip, while higher Q gives a narrower peak or dip. For the HIGH_SHELF and LOW_SHELF filter
types, Q controls how quickly the filter transitions from no gain to maximum gain.

Bypass

Clicking on the Bypass button disables that filter. (All other filters are still operational unless

individually bypassed.)

Import REW

This button selects a file exported from Room EQ Wizard’s automatic equalization function. For

more information, see the app note Auto-EQ tuning with REW and the section Custom biquad

programming. For the PWR-ICE amplifier, the REW auto-EQ must have the equalizer type set to

“miniDSP-96k”.

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5.2 CROSSOVER

Each output channel has independent high pass and low pass filters. Click on the Xover button to open the
crossover settings window:

There is one filter for high pass (low cut) and one for low pass (high cut). The above example shows output
channel 1 with a pair of filters: an 18 Hz high pass filter and a 2000 Hz low pass filter. Overlaid in light gray is the
crossover filter for output channel 2, which is a high pass filter, also at 2000 Hz but with a different slope.

Each filter can be set to one of a range of filter types and slopes. The filter type determines the shape of the
filter around the crossover point, and the filter slope (expressed in dB/octave) determines how steep the filter
cutoff is.

Basic/Advanced

By default, the crossover is in basic mode, and shows the controls described below. Advanced

mode enables custom biquad programming for almost infinite flexibility in crossover filter
implementation. This is described in Custom biquad programming.

Cutoff Frequency

Sets the nominal cutoff frequency of the crossover. In actual fact, of course, the crossover has a

more or less gradual transition from “full on” to “full off,” as determined by the filter slope.

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Filter type

Selects the type and slope of the filter. The steeper the slope, the more quickly frequencies

above or below the cutoff frequency are attenuated. There are three types of filter:

Butterworth (BW)

Available in 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 dB/octave, Butterworth crossover

filters are 3 dB down at the cutoff frequency.

Linkwitz-Riley (LR)

Available in 12, 24, and 48 dB/octave, Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters are 6 dB

down at the cutoff frequency.

Bessel

Available in 12 dB/octave only, a Bessel filter gives a more gradual roll-off

through the crossover region.

Bypass

Clicking on the Bypass button disables that high pass or low pass filter. (The other filter is still

active, unless specifically bypassed also.)

5.3 COMPRESSOR

The compressor reduces the gain of an output channel when the audio signal reaches a certain level as specified
by the Threshold parameter. The gain of the channel will be progressively reduced as the signal increases above
the threshold, according to the Ratio parameter. This can be used to limit the power delivered to speakers and
thus reduce the risk of damage from overdriving.

This screenshot shows an example Compressor setting:

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(Note that the compressor algorithm is bypassed by default, so click on the Bypass button to see the curve as
shown here.)

In this example, the threshold is set to -20 dB, so the compressor will activate when the signal on that channel
reaches -20 dB (relative to full output). The ratio is set to 2, so if the input signal level to the compressor then
increases by 10 dB, the output level will increase by only 5 dB. If the input signal level to the compressor is at full
scale (0 dB), then the output level will be limited to -10 dB.

Two additional parameters control the action of the compressor: the attack time and the release time. These
two parameters govern how quickly the compressor activates when the signal level exceeds the threshold, and
how quickly it deactivates when the signal level reduces. The optimum settings may need to be tuned by ear. For
more information, see the Wikipedia article Dynamic range compression.

5.4 CUSTOM BIQUAD PROGRAMMING

Custom biquad programming is available in the parametric EQ and crossover blocks. Its purpose is to allow you
to directly provide the low-level parameters aka biquad coefficients that control the digital filters, thus providing
an almost infinite degree of flexibility.

For example, you can create hybrid crossovers with more than one cutoff frequency, create crossover filter
types beyond those provided in the easy-to-use “basic” interface, implement a Linkwitz transform, or mix
crossover and filtering biquads in the same block.

5.4.1 What’s a “biquad?

A biquad is the basic unit of processing that is used to create digital filters. It can be described either with an
equation or with a signal flow diagram, as shown here:

A single biquad like this can perform a great many functions, including all of the functions of a single parametric
EQ filter, one 6 or 12 dB/octave high pass or low pass filter, and more. Biquads are combined in series

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(cascaded) to create more complex filters. The function that each biquad performs is determined by just five
numbers: a1, a2, a0, b1, and b2. These numbers are called the coefficients.

5.4.2 Using custom biquad programming

Each crossover block and parametric EQ filter has a selector that switches it to advanced mode:

In advanced mode, the biquad coefficients are pasted directly into the user interface. These coefficients must be
calculated using a filter design program – see the following sections for suggestions.

Parametric EQ advanced mode

In the parametric EQ blocks, advanced mode allows each individual filter to be specified by its

coefficients. After pasting in the biquad coefficients, click on the Process button for them to take
effect.

Parametric EQ file import (REW integration)

Six filters can be set at once by importing a coefficient file from Room EQ Wizard (REW). See

Room EQ Wizard below.

Crossover advanced mode

Each Crossover block has eight biquads, allowing a high pass and low pass filter of up to 48

dB/octave in Basic mode. In Advanced mode, all eight biquads need to be specified. After
pasting in the biquad coefficients, click on the Process button for them to take effect.

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5.4.3 Biquad calculation spreadsheet

The community-developed biquad calculation spreadsheet allows more filter types to be calculated, including
notch filters, Linkwitz transforms, and filters with arbitrary Q-factor. Access this spreadsheet here (requires
Microsoft Excel):

 http://www.minidsp.com/images/fbfiles/files/All_digital_coefs_v1-20101026.zip

5.4.4 Room EQ Wizard (REW)

Room EQ Wizard is a free acoustic measurement and analysis tool, available for Windows, Mac and Linux
platforms. It includes the ability to automatically generate a bank of parametric EQ biquads based on a
measurement. These coefficients can be saved to a file from REW and loaded directly into a PEQ bank in a
miniDSP plugin.

Room EQ Wizard can be downloaded here:

 http://www.roomeqwizard.com/#downloads

For guidance on using this feature, please refer to the app note Auto EQ with REW.

A parametric EQ block on the input channel has twelve parametric filters. When loading a REW EQ
file, however, only six filters are loaded. Therefore, to use a mixture of REW-generated filters and
manually set filters, put your manual setting in filters 7 through 12.

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Analog inputs

Stereo RCA, 1V or 2V RMS maximum input (jumper selectable)

Stereo balanced (XLR), 2V or 8V RMS maximum input (jumper selectable)

Digital input

AES/EBU, sample rates up to 216 kHz

Resolution

24-bit, 96 kHz

Protection features

Overcurrent and thermal overload protection

Supply voltage

85 to 132 VAC (switch set to “115V”)

170 to 264 VAC (switch set to “230V”)

Power output, SE/2-ch
mode, RL = 4Ω 1

120 W/channel (230V/50Hz AC)

105 W/channel (115V/50Hz AC)

Power output, BTL mode,
RL = 4Ω 2

450 W (230V/50Hz AC)

370 W (115V/50Hz AC)

Dimensions (H x W x D)

153 x 216 x 77 mm

Power output, SE/2-ch
mode, RL = 4Ω

1

230 W/channel (230V/50Hz AC)

200 W/channel (115V/50Hz AC)

Power output, BTL mode,
RL = 8Ω 2

500 W (230V/50Hz AC)

420 W (115V/50Hz AC)

Dimensions (H x W x D)

153 x 267.5 x 77 mm

6 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

6.1 KEY SPECIFICATIONS

6.1.1 General

6.1.2 PWR-ICE125

6.1.3 PWR-ICE250

1. 1% THD+N20Hz < f < 20kHz, both channels driven. (AES17 measurement filter). Specification provided by
ICEpower. See ICEpower datasheets for 125ASX2 and 250ASX2 for full specifications.

2. 1% THD+N20Hz < f < 20kHz. (AES17 measurement filter). Specification provided by ICEpower. See ICEpower
datasheets for 125ASX2 and 250ASX2 for full specifications.

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Figure 1. PWR-ICE125 plate dimensions and mounting hole locations

6.2 MOUNTING DIMENSIONS

6.2.1 PWR-ICE125

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Figure 2. PWR-ICE125 recommended cutout dimensions (red outline)

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Figure 3. PWR-ICE250 plate dimensions and mounting hole locations

6.2.2 PWR-ICE250

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Figure 4. PWR-ICE250 recommended cutout dimensions (red outline)

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6.2.3 Additional mounting considerations

Please note the following points:

1. The minimum depth from the front plate is 77mm (3 inches).

2. The plate is not sealed or airtight. Mounting directly into a sealed loudspeaker enclosure is therefore not

recommended. Instead, a sub-enclosure should be used.

3. Adequate space and airflow must be allowed around the amplifier to aid cooling. If a separate sub-

enclosure is used, ensure that air can flow around the amplifier module.

4. It must not be possible to touch any exposed high voltage parts of the amplifier while it is powered on.

(For example, if a subwoofer has a sufficiently large port, ensure that it is not possible to insert a hand
and touch the high voltage parts. (See page 13.)

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Item#

Symptoms

Troubleshooting recommendation

1

No audio on outputs

a. Make sure that audio signal is shown on the RMS input meters.
b. Confirm the source selection is correct (Analog/Digital)

Double check that output mute buttons are not enabled

c. Confirm that master mute is not enabled
d. Confirm that you are synchronized and live

2

No audio on RMS input
meters

a. Check your connectivity
b. Double-check the strength of your input signal.
c. Confirm that master mute is disabled

3

Audio on input RMS
meters but no audio on
outputs

a. Make sure the matrix mixer is set to send audio to the output

channels in a mixer plug-in

b. Check the output mute status for each channel

4

Cannot reload
configuration

a. Confirm the file format of your file (.xml)
b. Confirm the version of the file

5

Cannot connect to the
board

a. Check your IP settings, if no DHCP server is present, make sure

your computer is not set static address.

b. On WinXP, confirm that you have installed .net environment.
c. Confirm that you do not have a firewall blocking the

communication.

6

Cannot install software

a. Confirm that you installed the required frameworks (Adobe

Air/ Microsoft .net / SP2 XP)

7

Software running in
background but not
showing

a. Adobe Air environment most likely requiring a version update.

Connect your PC to the Internet to automatically get an
update.

6.3 TROUBLESHOOTING

The following table lists the most common causes of issues with the PWR-ICE amplifier. If following this table
does not provide a solution, see Obtaining Support below.

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6.4 MCU FIRMWARE UPGRADE

miniDSP may occasionally provide an update to the PWR-ICE MCU firmware to enable new features. To update
the MCU firmware, first download and install the latest version of the PWR-ICE2-2x2 plugin from the User
Downloads section of the miniDSP website. Unzip the download file and navigate to the firmware folder. Follow
the instructions in the included PDF file.

6.5 OBTAINING SUPPORT

1. Check the forums on miniDSP.com to see if this issue has already been raised and a solution or solutions

provided.

2. Contact miniDSP via the support portal at minidsp.desk.com with:
a. The specific product you are having an issue with (in this case, PWR-ICE amplifier).
b. A clear explanation of the symptoms you are seeing.
c. A description of the troubleshooting steps (see Troubleshooting above) you performed and the results

obtained.

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