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INSTALLATION & OPERATION GUIDE
B LENDING H IGH F IDELITY AND A RCHITECTURE
®
Systems Integration Amplifier
™
®
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CONGRATULATIONS!
Thank you for purchasing the award winning Niles SI-1230, one of the most
versatile and powerful multi-channel amplifiers ever offered. Like all Niles
products, the SI-1230 is built to the highest standards of quality and reliability.
With proper installation and operation, you'll enjoy years of trouble-free use.
Niles manufactures the industry's most complete line of custom installation components and accessories for audio/video systems. For a free full-line catalog write:
Niles, Catalog Request, P.O. Box 160818, Miami, Florida 33116-0818
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 2
FEATURES AND BENEFITS 3
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 5
CONFIGURING YOUR SYSTEM 12
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS 13
FRONT AND REAR PANELDETAILS 15
INSTALLA TION 1 9
OPERATION 25
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 27
CONFIGURATION WORKSHEET 29
SPECIFICATIONS 30
1
CAUTION: TO REDUCE
THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
CAUTION
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 equivalent triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintnance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompaying the appliance.
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INTRODUCTION
We call the SI-1230 a Systems Integration Amplifier because, for the first time, a power
amplifier has been specifically designed to solve the problems of interfacing with different brands and models of equipment, different acoustic environments in different
rooms, and different kinds of applications: home theater, stereo, and background
music. As you read this manual and become more familiar with the capabilities of the
SI-1230 you’ll understand why its predeccesor, the SI-1200, was selected Best New
Product 1994 by Sound & Video Contractor Magazine and CEDIA(Custom Electronic
Design and Installation Association). In addition, the SI-1200 also won the Consumer
Electronics Show’s Innovations ‘95 Design and Engineering Award.
INTRODUCTION
CEDIA
CUSTOM
ELECTRONIC
DESIGN&
INSTALLATION
ASSOCIATION
BEST
NEW
PRODUCT
1994
CEDIA and Sound & Video Contractor
Magazine Best New Product 1994 Award
2
SI-1230
Systems Integration Amplifier
Page 4
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Real World Power
The SI-1230 is a 12-channel amplifier that delivers a solid 30 watts per channel
RMS into 8 ohms and 37 watts per channel RMS into 4 ohms. The massive MultiT ap Toroid power transformer features six independent secondary transformers for
each of the six amplifier modules. As a result, the SI-1230 delivers twenty percent
more power than its predecessor, the SI-1200. This extraordinary power supply
design provides the energy necessary to deliver solid, deep, controlled bass
response to a house full of speakers.
Twelve to Six Channel Configurable Power
Each of the SI-1230's six adjacent output pairs are bridgeable. You can create up
to six 80 watt channels by sliding the bridging switches located between each
pair to the "bridged" position. This enables you to allocate more power to specific locations, such as large rooms or outdoor applications.
Freedom from Noise and Cross-Talk
The SI-1230’s Input/BusMatrix™PC board incorporates advanced construction
ensuring extremely high channel to channel isolation. Signal to noise ratios and
cross-talk are equivalent to a professional mixing board found in a recording studio.
With the SI-1230 the music playing in the living room cannot interfere with the
music in the den.
Transparent Sound
The audio circuitry of the SI-1230 is constructed with the finest parts available,
including 1% metal film resistors, high quality capacitors and oversized heat sinks.
All this attention to technical detail results in a sound that is clear and uncolored.
BusMatrix™ Selector
Our unique BusMatrix selector gives you the flexibility to assign each channel to
a common Left, Right, or Mono signal bus, or to a dedicated signal input. With
BusMatrix, routing surround sound to the master bedroom, stereo to the den and
mono to the powder room is as simple as flicking a switch. BusMatrix makes the
SI-1230 an ideal multi-room or multi-zone amplifier and offers exciting new
features and system design possibilities to the professional installer.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
3
Page 5
Independent Level Controls
Each channel has its own independent level control enabling you to adjust the
volume settings for twelve different speaker locations. Each speaker can be
adjusted for its location and who uses it!
Turn-On Modes
The SI-1230 features three turn-on modes: 1. Manual turn-on via the front panel
switch, 2. Audio Sense and 3. External Voltage trigger. Audio Sense and External
Voltage trigger modes enable allow you to configure the SI-1230 to interface with
any kind of system and turn on automatically.
Automatic Protection
Each channel has independent thermal and short circuit protection. In the unlikely event that a problem occurs on one channel, the other channels will continue
to play. When conditions return to normal, regular operation resumes.
Status Display for Troubleshooting
LED's on the front panel indicate Power, Active andProtection Status. With a glance
at the front panel a troubleshooter is quickly provided with key information!
Made in the USA.
Limited two year parts and labor Warranty.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
4
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System Design Basics –Assigning Rooms to Zones
You define a multi-room music system by how many listening zones it has.
Within a listening zone you can only listen to one source (CD, radio, tape, etc.)
at a time. A zone can consist of just one room or a group of rooms. To achieve
different volumes and greater convenience in different rooms within a zone, individual volume controls can be used. Niles makes volume controls in various
styles and colors. Consult your local Niles dealer for more information.
When designing your system, take into account who will use the system and when
they will use it. For example, a family might wire their family room for surround
sound and their living room for background music.
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5
5 System Design Basics —Assigning Rooms
to Zones.
6 Advantages of using the SI-1230 in a Single
Zone System
7 Using Level Controls as Limiters
7 Bridging Channels for Areas That Require
More Volume and Power
8 Using Mono for Smoother Coverage
8 Adding More Than Two Surround
Sound Speakers
9 Creating a Low-Cost Second Zone Using
a Dedicated Source
10 Adding Preamps to Create More Listening
Zones
11 Surround Sound in Two Rooms
A Multi-Zone System
allows different sources
to be heard in each of
the zones, simultaneously.
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN
CONSIDERATIONS
CD PLAYER
TAPE PLAYER
VCR
TV
RECEIVER
FAMILY ROOM
LISTENING ZONE 1
RECEIVER
LIVING ROOM
LISTENING ZONE 2
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A Single-Zone System allows only one source to be heard throughout the house at a
given time. However, if the system is configured to be a Multi zone system it would
offer the household more flexibility. In a two-zone system, the children could watch
TV in surround sound while Mom and Dad read the paper and listen to music in
the living room.
Advantages of using the SI-1230 in a Single Zone System
In order to connect multiple pairs of speakers to a single stereo amplifier, they must
connect in parallel to offer the best sound quality and to allow the convenience of
an individual room volume control. Because parallel connections of multiple speaker pairs lower the overall impedance presented to an amplifier, damage may occur.
An impedance matching device will allow amplifiers to safely play multiple pairs of
speakers. However, the amount of power actually delivered to the speakers when all
of the speakers are playing simultaneously is very low. Typically a 100 watt stereo
amplifier with an impedance matching device will deliver about 5 watts to each
speaker in a system comprised of six pairs of eight ohm speakers. By connecting an
SI-1230 to the preamplifier outputs of your stereo receiver (or preamp) you dedicate
a robust 30 watts to each speaker in your multi-room system. Since each channel
has its own level control, you can compensate for architectural differences that create sonic imbalances. In addition, you can fine tune the system so that when all of
the room volume controls are set to the loudest level, the large rooms and the small
rooms play at the same volume.
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
6
A Single-Zone System
allows only one source to
be heard throughout the
house at a given time.
CD PLAYER
FAMILY ROOM LIVING ROOM
TAPE PLAYER
RECEIVER
LISTENING ZONE 1
VCR
TV
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7
Using Level Controls as Limiters
If your system is remote controlled, or if you think that some of the users like to
play the stereo too loudly, you can choose to calibrate the system so that it is limited to a volume level you assign. The SI-1230 allows you to set different volume
levels for different rooms.
Calibrate your system volume levels with the steps outlined below:
1. Lower all of the SI-1 230 level controls to the minimum volume position. If there
are any other amplifiers in the system, lower their level controls to the minimum (all of the amplifiers in your system must have level controls).
2. Raise all of the individual in-wall volume controls to the loudest setting.
3. Play a loud radio station with the tuner set to Mono.
4. Raise the volume of your preamplifier or receiver slowly – if you hear any
sound, lower the volume again and recheck all of your amplifier levels, they
must be at minimum. If no sound is heard, proceed to step five.
5. Have someone step into each room and listen as you adjust each level control
to the desired maximum level for that room. Adjust the balance between
speakers for the most common listening position in each room.
Bridging Channels for Areas That Require More Volume
and Power
There are several situations where bridging is an excellent way to improve the
sound. Likewise, there are some applications that would seem to be appropriate
but are not recommended. Plan to bridge channels to increase the power to 80
watts per channel when required. Here are some of the most common DO'S and
DON’TS:
Surround Sound Systems (DO)– The dynamic demands for the center channel
are much higher than the left, right or surround channels. This is an excellent
application for two channels to be bridged into one 80 watt channel.
Outdoors (DO)– Sound dissipates faster outside than within a room where the
walls enclose the sound and reflect it back to the listener. A pair of speakers playing into a large patio or yard will greatly benefit from bridging four channels into
two 80 watt channels.
More than Two Speakers (DON’T)– In a large room or a long hallway, you will
often find that the best way to get good background music is to install multiple
pairs of speakers. You will actually deliver more power to four eight ohm speakers by using two unbridged channels than you would if you bridged four channels into two. An unbridged channel is stable down to four ohms (two pair of
eight ohm speakers), but a bridged channel is only useful with an eight ohm load.
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
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8
Using Mono For Smoother Coverage
In a large or irregularly shaped room you will often discover that in a particular
chair, all you can hear is one speaker. If the room’s speakers are connected to a
stereo amplifier you hear only half the music. The solution would be to connect
that room’s speakers to a monophonic amplifier. However, if you make one room
mono with conventional systems, all of the other rooms in the system are mono
as well. For the first time, the SI-1230's BusMatrix enables you to route mono to
one speaker without affecting the quality of the stereo in the rest of the system.
You can configure each room to stereo or mono with no ill effects. Some of the
most popular areas where mono will greatly enhance the quality of the sound
would be:
1. Large rooms with many seating areas and/or many pairs of speakers
2. Irregularly shaped rooms
3. Bathrooms with one speaker over the tub and one speaker over the sink(s)
4. Hallways or passageways (even those with multiple speakers)
5. Small rooms where only one speaker will physically fit
Adding More than Two Surround Sound Speakers
In a home theater, we try to reproduce the experience of a great movie theater in
our homes. The biggest difference between a commercial theater and your home
is the rear or surround speaker array. In a home with a single pair of speakers it
is easy for the surround effects to sound like they are "in the middle of your head",
just like headphones!
The best way to create a strong "surround" effect is to use multiple speakers. In
large or unusually shaped rooms this might be the only way to achieve good
sound. However, the built-in surround amplifier channels of a typical receiver will
not successfully power more than one
pair of speakers. If your surround processor or receiver has rear pre-outputs you
can easily improve the surround effect
with additional speakers and one or two
channels of an SI-1230. The individual
level controls of the SI-1230 allow six
decibels of gain over the main and center
amplifiers for easy calibration of a mix of
brands/models of speakers.
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Additional surround speakers fed by the
SI-1230 greatly enhance the effectiveness of
your surround sound system.
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9
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Creating a Low-Cost Second Zone
Using A Dedicated Source
The biggest problem in a single zone system is that when the TV is in use in one
room, you cannot listen to music in another room. For a listener who only listens
to CD’s it is possible to create a low-cost second zone, allowing simultaneous CD
listening while the rest of the system plays the TV (or any source). This is possible
with the advent of CD players which have two audio outputs; one variable and
controlled via remote control and one which is fixed. You connect the variable
output of the CD player to the SI-1230 channels for a particular room where you
are willing to listen only to CD’s. The fixed outputs remain connected to the main
preamp or receiver so that you can listen to CD’s in the rest of the house. The
crowning touch is a Niles remote control repeater system so that you can raise and
lower the CD player’s volume from your CD listening room.
AM/FM TUNER
TAPE PLAYER CD PLAYER
AMPLIFIER
OR RECEIVER
ZONE 1 ZONE 2
AUDIO
SPLITTER
SI-1230
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Adding Preamps to Create More Listening Zones
In the ultimate multi-zone system you would connect six stereo preamplifiers (or
a single component multi-zone or matrix preamp) to one SI-1230 and create six
completely independent stereo systems. A system like this allows six people to
simultaneously listen to different sources. Since the SI-1230 and the wiring of
your house is already capable of a system like this, you can easily upgrade the
number of zones in your system by simply adding another preamplifier and
changing the connections to the SI-1230.
10
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
AM/FM TUNER
TAPE PLAYER CD PLAYER
ZONE 1 ZONE 2 ZONE 3 ZONE 4 ZONE 5 ZONE 6
6 STEREO PREAMPS OR 1 MATRIX PREAMP
WITH 6 STEREO OUTPUTS
SI-1230
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Surround Sound in Two Rooms
Y ou can easily add a second room of surround sound speakers by connecting five
of the SI-1230 channels to the pre-outs of your surround system. If there is a preout/main-in loop, use a "Y" connector as shown so that the internal power amplifier can still be used in the main surround sound room. When you configure a
system for a second surround sound room, consider bridging the center channel
amplifier to 80 watts if the listener prefers high volumes. The center channel performs 60 to 80 percent of the dynamics of a movie soundtrack.
In this two-zone, six room system, a Surround Receiver, a Stereo Receiver and the SI-1230 combine to provide great sound everywhere. The stereo receiver plays in the Living Room, the surround
receiver plays in the Family room and the SI-1230 simultaneously plays Dolby Pro-Logic Surround
Sound (with a bridged center channel!) in the Master Bedroom, stereo in the Kitchen and Patio, and
mono in the Master Bath and the Front Hall.
11
APPLICATIONS AND SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Page 13
CONFIGURING YOUR SYSTEM
12
CONFIGURING YOUR SYSTEM
Because the SI-1230 offers so many configuration possibilities it is important to
plan carefully before you install it. Draw a block diagram of your system and use
the Configuration Worksheet on page 29 to record how you plan to connect your
SI-1230. Here is an example filled out according to the block diagram on page 11.
Sample Configuration Worksheet
BUS INS & OUTS CONNECTED TO
Left Main Bus
Stereo Receiver Left Pre-Output
Right Main Bus Stereo Receiver Right Pre-Output
Cascade Output Looped back into the Stereo Receivers Main Inputs
CH # BRIDGED DIP INPUT SOURCE SPEAKER
1
L Main Bus Left Kitchen
2 R Main Bus Right Kitchen
3 L Main Bus Left Patio
4 R Main Bus Right Patio
5 L +R Main Bus Front Hall
6 L+R Main Bus Bathroom
7 Off (Bridged) Bedroom Center +
8 8 Receiver Center Pre-Out Bedroom Center -
9 9 Receiver Left Main Pre-Out Bedroom Left
10 10 Receiver Right Main Pre-Out Bedroom Right
11 11 Receiver Left Rear Pre-Out Bedroom Left Rear
12 12 Receiver Right Rear Pre-Out Bedroom Right Rear
MODE SETTINGS IN USE SPECIAL CONNECTIONS OR NOTES
Constant
Audio Sense
Voltage Trigger
Control Output
✓
✓
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13
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Placement
Place the SI-1230 on a flat, level surface like a table or shelf. It should be placed
upright so that its weight rests on the unit’s four feet. PLACING THE WEIGHT OF
THE AMPLIFIER ON THE REAR OR FRONT PANELFOR EVEN AN INSTANT WILL
RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER'S CONNECTORS AND CONTROLS.
The SI-1230, like any hi-fi component, will last much longer if it is given adequate
ventilation for proper cooling. When installing the SI-1 230 in a cabinet, be sure that
the rear of the cabinet is open to fresh air to provide proper cooling (see Figure 1). If
the cabinet’s design will not accommodate an open rear, install two small “boxer
fans” to provide continuous air flow into and out of the cabinet (see Figure 2). Place
the SI-1 230 so that there is at least 5" of free air space above the chassis. If the amplifier is located on a carpeted surface, place a board under the amplifier's feet. Do not
block the ventilation holes on the top and bottom of the SI-1230.
The SI-1230 is equipped with a massive toroidal power transformer. This transformer generates a powerful magnetic field which could induce hum in a
turntable (particularly a turntable equipped with a moving coil cartridge). Do not
place a turntable directly above or directly adjacent to the SI-1230.
If the cabinet rear is not open to
fresh air, install two small “boxer
fans” to provide continuous air
flow into and out of the cabinet.
Make sure that there is a minimum
of 5” of free air space above the
amplifier and 3” on each side for
proper ventilation.
Allow a minimum of 2” of depth
behind unit to accommodate cables
and connectors .
Figure 1
Figure 2
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14
Turn-On Modes
The SI-1230 draws more current than a preamplifier ’s switched AC outlet can
safely supply. Also, your preamplifier may "thump" at dangerous volumes if the
amplifier is already on when the preamp turns on. It is usually best to turn the
amplifier on only when it is needed. The Turn-On Mode selector switch gives you
three options for turning "On" and "Off" the SI-1230.
Constant – The auto turn-on circuitry is off. The front panel master
power switch operates the amplifier.
In is "On", Out is "Off".
Audio Sense – The master switch on
the front panel must be in the "On"
position. The amplifier is off when
there is no audio signal present at any
of the 14 inputs, but the sensing cir cuitry is on. The turn-on sensing circuitry
looks for a tiny amount of audio signal
present at any of the audio inputs. If it
detects a signal, the adjacent pair of
amplifier channels (i.e. channel 1 & 2 ,
3 & 4, 5 & 6, etc.) assigned to receive
the input signals will turn on. Once the
audio signal stops, the sensing circuit
waits two minutes, then turns all amplifier channels off.
3-30 Volt AC/DC Opto-Isolated Voltage Trigger – The master switch on the front
panel must be in the "On" position. The amplifier is off when there is not a 3-30V AC
or DC voltage applied to the voltage trigger input. Once the sensing circuitry detects
a voltage, all adjacent pairs of amplifier channels that are receiving an audio signal
turn on. Once the voltage stops, the sensing circuit instantly turns the amplifier off.
Voltage triggers can be supplied by Niles automated switchers, some video projectors, some surround sound processors, or something as simple as a 16 volt AC wall
adapter (Niles XF00008) plugged into the switched outlet of your stereo receiver . Do
not use a DC wall adapter. The long discharge time of the DC adapter’s filter capac-
itor will delay the turn-off of the amplifier.
If you are using a wall adapter or external power supply to provide the trigger it
doesn't have to be very large (a minimum current capability of 2.5 milliamps for a 3
volt trigger increasing up to a minimum of 38 milliamps for a 30 volt trigger).
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Page 16
FRONT AND REAR PANEL DETAILS
15
Red “Power” LED confirms the
amplifier is connected to a live AC
power outlet and that the front
panel master power switch is on.
Red “Active” LED lights
when the amplifier circuitry
has been turned on by the
Turn-On circuits.
Front panel “Master
Power” switch turns off
the entire amplifier,
including the auto turnon circuitr
y.
Main Bus Inputs enable you
to route a stereo line level
source to the BusMatrix
TM
of the SI-1230.
Cascade outputs of the main
bus input enable you to daisy
chain multiple amplifiers.
Bridging switch
inputs and leve
3.5mm Jack for
12v DC Control Output.
“Turn-On” Mode Switch
3.5mm Jack for
12v DC Control Input.
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FRONT AND REAR PANEL DETAILS
16
Attractive extruded
aluminum front panel.
Red “protect” LED indicates a
fault condition (D.C. output).
Gold-plated
RCA jacks
Serial Number.
Dual banana spaced binding
posts for speaker connections.
Removable Two-prong
16 gauge 6’AC power cord.
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17
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Speaker Compatibility
CAUTION! Do not use speakers with an impedance of less than 4 ohms with an
unbridged channel. Do not use speakers with an impedance of less than 8 ohms
with a bridged channel.
An unbridged channel of the SI-1230 is designed to play into a speaker load of
four ohms or more. When a four ohm speaker is connected, the continuous
power rating of the amplifier increases to 37 watts RMS per channel, (all channels driven). If the load is less than four ohms the protection circuits may operate
and shut off the channel at higher volume levels.
A bridged channel requires that the load be eight ohms or more to deliver 80
watts RMS. If the load is less than 8 ohms the protection circuits may operate and
shut off the channel at higher volume levels.
When designing your system try to specify four to eight ohm speakers (Niles offers a
complete line of architectural loudspeakers with several models rated at 8 ohms).
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18
Cable and Wire
Because the SI-1230 has so many connections on the back panel it is very important that you label all the input cables and speaker wires. If you label the cables
and wires for their destination or source, rather than which terminal of the SI-1230
they are connected to, it will be easier to reconfigure your system in the future.
The SI-1230 connects to your sources via shielded line level audio cables with
RCA phono plugs. Use high quality cables with your Niles amplifier for the lowest possible noise and best overall performance. Your Niles dealer can recommend the proper cable.
The SI-1230 connects to your speakers using 2-conductor speaker wire. For most
applications, we recommend you use 16 or 18 gauge wire. For wiring runs longer
than 80 feet we recommend 14 gauge wire. The binding posts of the SI-1230 will
accommodate up to 12 gauge wire. Larger sizes can be accommodated by attaching banana plugs to the wire. Note that the binding posts do accept dual banana
connectors, as well as single connectors. Niles Banana Plugs are available from
your Niles dealer.
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
TECH TIP
Wire size is expressed by its AWG (American
Wire Gauge) number. The lower the number, the
larger the wire, i.e. twelve AWG is physically
larger than fourteen AWG.
Page 20
INSTALLATION
CAUTION! ALL CONNECTIONS AND REAR PANEL SWITCH SETTINGS
SHOULD BE MADE WITH THE AMPLIFIER’S FRONT PANEL MASTER POWER
SWITCH OFF.
Bridging Two Channels into One
The SI-1230's bridging switches allow you to create a more powerful amplifier
channel by combining or "bridging" two adjacent channels.
19
INSTALLATION
BRIDGED –
12
BRIDGED +
Slide the bridging switch in the
direction of the
arrow to bridge
two adjacent
amplifier channels. Set the
controls of the
newly bridged
pair by using the
EVEN numbered
channel.
When two channels are bridged
together, connect speakers to the
two terminals labeled “Bridged”.
19 Bridging Two Channels into One
20 BusMatrix
TM
Input Switch Setting
21 Setting The Turn-On Mode Switch
21 The Control Output
22 Speaker Wire Connections
23 Line Level Audio Inputs
23 Cascade Audio Outputs
24 AC Power Plug
24 Rail Fuse Holders
STEP
1. Choose which of the six pairs you
wish to bridge and move the bridging
switch for that pair to the "Bridged"
position (toward arrow).
CAUTION! Do not connect a speaker
load of less than eight ohms to a
bridged channel.
DESCRIPTION
The 12 channels are grouped into 6 pairs
(e.g. 1 & 2). Only the two channels within a
pair can be bridged. Thus, only channels 1
and 2, or channels 3 and 4 could be bridged.
You cannot bridge 2 and 3 for example.
A bridged channel on a SI-1230 is
designed for an eight ohm minimum load.
Connecting a speaker with a nominal
impedance of less than 8 ohms may cause
the SI-1230 to go into protection or be
damaged.
-
+
BUS
BRIDGED
USE CH 2
WHEN
BRIDGED
L
R
L+R
1
BUS
21
LEVELLEVEL
L
R
L+R
2
Page 21
Bridging Two Channels Into One (continued)
BusMatrix
TM
Input Switch Setting
Each channel has a dedicated BusMatrix DIP
switch that assigns that channel’s source. To
assign a signal from the Main Bus Input, select
one of the first three switches which will give
you either Left (L), Right (R) or Mono (L+R). To
assign the channel’s dedicated input select the
fourth switch. Only ONE switch should be
selected to the “ON” position.
20
STEP
1. Move only ONE switch to the "ON"
position for each channel.
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION! The DIP switch physically allows
you to move all four of the switches to the
“On” position. If you accidentally set more
than one switch "On", you will create an
undesirable mix of inputs on the entire bus.
STEP
2. Connect the speaker wires to the
two Bridged speaker terminals
(BRIDGED +, BRIDGED -). Observe
proper polarity markings.
CAUTION! DO NOT connect a speaker selector or headphone junction
box to the output of a bridged
channel pair.
3. Use the EVEN NUMBERED input,
input DIP switch, and level control for
connections and configuration.
DESCRIPTION
Connect your speaker wire only to the red
terminals of the two adjacent amplifier
channels. If one of the speaker wires touches a black terminal (thereby grounding the
red "hot" terminals) you will short circuit
the amplifier.
These connections to a bridged channel
pair will result in either thermal shutdown
or poor quality sound.
When two channels are bridged into one,
make sure that the odd numbered input
DIP switches are all in the “off” position.
INSTALLATION
“ON” Position“OFF”Position
L
R
MAIN
CASCADE
BUS
BUS
INPUT
OUTPUT
L
BUS
L
R
L+R
1
R
Page 22
21
INSTALLATION
Setting the Turn-On Mode Switch
The SI-1230 has three turn-on modes. Select the mode you want by sliding the
mode switch. See Installation Considerations on page 13 for more information
about each of the turn-on modes.
The Control Output
This terminal provides a 12V DC signal suitable
for triggering Niles automated switchers, some
motorized screens, some electric curtain controls,
etc. This voltage is present only when the amplifier is active or on. When the amplifier turns off,
the 12V signal is off.
STEP
1. Check the requirements of the
device you want to control.
2. Connect the 3.5mm Jack to the
control output maintaining proper
polarity (tip = +)
DESCRIPTION
The control output has a maximum
current capability of 150 mA.
Niles makes an accessory cable
plug FG00724.
Slide the switch with either your fingernail
or a 1/8” slotted screwdriver blade.
Using the
3.5mm jack.
Page 23
22
Speaker Wire Connections
CAUTION! All speaker wire connections must be made with the amplifier Off.
STEP
1. Label all wires.
2. Connect one stripped wire end or
banana plug to the black terminal
and one to the red terminal.
CAUTION- Avoid even a single strand
of wire touching the chassis or another
connector .
DESCRIPTION
If you label the wires for their destination,
rather than which terminal of the SI-1230
they are connected to, it will be easier to
reconfigure your system in the future.
A. Split the speaker wire insulation so that
at least two inches of each conductor are
separated.
B. Strip one half inch of insulation from the
end of each conductor of the speaker wire
C. Attach banana plugs or twist the strands of
wire together and insert them into the appropriate binding post.
INSTALLATION
Bare Wire
Unscrew the red or
black plastic knob,
insert the bare wire
end into the opening,
and then tighten the
knob until the wire is
securely clamped.
Banana Plugs
There are many types
of banana plugs, some
crimp, some solder.
The Niles gold banana
plug has a quick-connect binding post for
the bare wire on the
body of the plug. A
banana plug is simply
inserted into the jack
at the end of the amplifier’s binding post.
Dual banana plugs
will fit the SI-1230
binding posts.
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23
INSTALLATION
Line Level Audio Inputs
CAUTION! THE AMPLIFIER MUST BE OFF WHENEVER YOU MAKE CHANGES
TO THE INPUT CONNECTIONS.
Cascade Audio Outputs
The "Cascade Audio Outputs" enable you to connect another amplifier to your
preamplifier output. The connectors are gold-plated RCA phono jacks. Connect
them to another amplifier’s inputs with a standard audio patch cable. The outputs
are not buffered; if you wish to daisy-chain more than 5 Niles amplifiers you will
need a Niles ADA-6 buffered distribution amplifier. A single ADA-6 will allow
you to daisy-chain 5 amplifiers from each of its six outputs, allowing 30 SI-1230
power amplifiers to be fed from the same master preamplifier. If your preamp has
a vacuum tube output stage, you must use a Niles ADA-6 to drive more than a
single SI-1230.
STEP
1. Label all of the interconnecting
cables for the sources they connect to.
2. Connect the sources by inserting the
RCA plug into the amplifier’s jacks.
NOTE: If you are using two amplifier
channels in "bridged" mode connect
the input cable to the even numbered
amplifier input jack.
DESCRIPTION
Use audio patch cables with RCA phono
plugs attached to the ends.
Connect outputs from your sources to
inputs on the amplifier. Never connect a
source or preamplifier’s input (e.g., record
inputs) to the inputs of your SI-1230.
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AC Power Plug
STEP
Plug the attached 2 prong plug into a
correctly grounded 120V 60 Hz wall
outlet.
CAUTION! Do not plug the amplifier's
cord into a preamplifier’s convenience
outlets.
DESCRIPTION
If you use a grounded power strip, surge
suppressor or extension cord, verify that
proper ground is maintained.
The SI-1230 draws a maximum of approximately 890 watts from an AC wall outlet.
This is much more than the typical accessory outlet on the back of a component
will provide. Use the SI-1230's auto turnon circuitry to turn on the SI-1230 whenever the preamp is on.
24
INSTALLATION
Page 26
25
OPERATION
OPERATION
Power LED
The power LED indicates that the AC cord is plugged into a working AC power
receptacle and that the power switch is in the "On" position.
Active LED
The rear panel turn-on mode switch determines when and how the amplifier will
turn on. The "Active" LED indicates that the amplifier is on.
Power Switch
The front panel switch is a master or "vacation" power switch. No matter which
turn-on mode you have selected, the master power switch will turn off all circuitry—including the sensing circuitry. If you are going on vacation and/or
would like to reduce power consumption while you are away, turn the master
power switch “Off” (push the rocker switch out). When you would like to return
to normal operation, turn the switch "On" (push the rocker switch in).
D.C. Protection
In the event a damaging D.C. signal becomes present on any of the speaker terminals, the D.C. protection circuit shuts down the entire amplifier and the red
LED labeled “Protection” illuminates. To reset the amplifier you must turn the
front panel power switch “Off” and then “On.”
Listening at Higher Volumes
Thirty watts is enough power to play a conventional speaker in a normal sized
room loudly enough to completely drown out conversation. Even at levels like
that, the SI-1230 will sound clear and clean. However, it requires more power to
achieve a reasonable volume of sound in a large room than it does in a small
room. It is possible (even if you are not a teenager) to turn the volume so high
that the amplifier runs out of power. This creates "clipping" distortion.
Page 27
Clipping distortion makes treble sound very harsh and unmusical. When you
hear harsh sounding treble from any good speaker, turn the volume down immediately! Those harsh sounds are masking some much more powerful high frequency sound spikes which will quickly damage the tweeter of any loudspeaker.
If you continue to operate the amplifier at "clipping" power levels the protection
circuits will operate when the amplifier overheats. The protection circuits reset
when the amplifier's internal circuitry cools. Reduce the volume to prevent a
reoccurrence. Perpetually overdriving your speakers and amplifier is abuse and
probably voids the manufacturer’s warranty of all affected products.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The internal parts of the SI-1230 are electronic and require no maintenance.
Once a year it is appropriate to twist the RCAconnectors on each input to remove
any oxidation and improve conductivity.
You can clean the amplifier with soft cloth or paper towel dampened with water or
a glass cleaner. Do not use any spray-type, abrasive cleaners on the amplifier.
OPERATION
26
Page 28
27
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
When there is a problem consult this guide first. If the problem persists, or you
have additional questions, call your local Niles dealer or call Niles Technical
Support at 1-800-289-4434. The most common problems relate to hook up.
SYMPTOM
No sound on one channel
No sound on some or all
channels
POSSIBLE CAUSES AND TEST PROCEDURE
BusMatrix DIP switch is not in the correct position.
Check your configuration worksheet for the correct
setting and verify.
Short circuit or loose wire at speaker or amplifier
terminals. Check that connections are secure and
that there are no loose strands of wire crossing from
the positive to the negative terminal at the back of
the amplifier and the speaker.
Short circuit or a break in the speaker wire. Disconnect the speaker wire at both ends, separate the
2 conductors at both ends and test with a meter for
a short circuit. If there is no short, connect the two
conductors at one end and test with a meter for
continuity.
Speaker is not working. Connect the speaker to a
channel that plays another speaker.
Audio cable to dedicated input is bad. Connect the
non-working channel input to another cable that is
known to be good.
Bridging Switch is in the wrong position. Check
your configuration worksheet for the correct setting
and verify.
The thermal protection circuit has operated because
of overheating caused by overdriving or inadequate
ventilation.
BusMatrix DIP switches are not in the correct positions. Check your configuration worksheet and
verify all settings.
Audio cable to the main bus inputs is bad. Connect
the non-working channel input to another cable
that is known to be good.
Some or all of the internal amplifier fuses are blown.
(Return the amplifier to your dealer for service).
Page 29
Have your configuration worksheet handy when you call.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE (continued)
SYMPTOM
Hum from all of the speakers
Amp will not turn on
Sound is distorted on one
or all of the channels at
normal volumes
Normal volume cannot be
reached
Bass sound is weak and the
stereo image is "phasey"
sounding in one room
A speaker connected to a
bridged pair of amplifier
channels sounds weak
POSSIBLE CAUSES AND TEST PROCEDURE
Hum may be caused by a ground loop between two
components in the system. To test for a ground loop,
try reversing the AC plugs of each of the components
in the system, that have non polarized plugs.
Check for faulty cables, faulty source material, an
ungrounded phono system, cable TV feed or a defective component.
Master power switch must be on.
AC power cord must be plugged into a working
outlet.
Test that the AC power receptacle is working. If the
outlet tests O.K., the internal fuses are blown.
Return the amplifier to your dealer for service.
BusMatrix DIP switches are not in the correct positions. Check your configuration worksheet and
verify all settings.
One of the internal amplifier fuses is blown.
(Return the amplifier to your dealer for service).
Check that the bridging switch is "Off". If two adjacent channels are connected normally but the bridging switch is set to the "Bridged" position, the two
speakers will play out of phase with each other.
The loudspeakers are wired out of phase. Reverse
the connections at the back of one speaker.
Check that the bridging switch is "On".
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
28
Page 30
CONFIGURATION WORKSHEET
29
BUS INS & OUTS CONNECTED TO
Left Main Bus
Right Main Bus
Cascade Output
CH # BRIDGED DIP INPUT SOURCE SPEAKER
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
MODE SETTINGS IN USE SPECIAL CONNECTIONS OR NOTES
Constant
Audio Sense
Voltage Trigger
Control Output
CONFIGURATION WORKSHEET
For ease of use, the Configuration Worksheet can be enlarged on a photocopier.
Page 31
SPECIFICATIONS
Design Principle
Linear voltage/current amplification.
Continuous Power Output (FTC Rated)
(unbridged, all channels driven) 30 watts per channel
RMS at 8 ohms and 37 watts per channel RMS at 4 ohms.
Bridged Power Output
(Two channels bridged, all channels driven)
80 watts per channel RMS at 8 ohms.
Input Impedance
10,000 ohms
Input Sensitivity
67mv for 1 watt out; 334mv for full output, (30 watts) level controls set at max.
Overall Voltage Gain
32.4 dB
Frequency Response
Bandwidth Limited from 5 Hz to 50 kHz
Distortion
(Bridged)
.06% THD 20 Hz-20 kHz All Channels Driven (8Ω)
(Unbridged)
.04% THD 20 Hz-20 kHz All Channels Driven (8Ω)
.06% THD 20 Hz-20 kHz All Channels Driven (4Ω)
Overall Dimensions
17” wide x 5 1/2” high (including feet) x 15” deep
Weight
28 lbs
SPECIFICATIONS
30
Page 32
Niles Audio
Corporation
12331 S.W. 130 Street
Miami, Florida 33186
Tel: (305) 238-4373
Fax: (305) 238-0185
www.nilesaudio.com
©1999 Niles Audio Corporation. Because Niles strives to continuously improve its
products, Niles reserves the right to change product specifications without notice.
Niles, the Niles logo and Blending High Fidelity and Architecture are registered
trademarks of Niles Audio Corporation. Systems Integration Amplifier and
BusMatrix are trademarks of Niles Audio Corporation. Printed in the USA 11/97
DS00207B
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