Vibe Labs SP SERIES, SP2000, SP4000 User Manual

Page 1
SP SERIES
Digital Power Amplifiers
Page 2
Page 2
SP Series User Manual
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Read instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.
Retain instructions - The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
Follow Instructions — All operating and maintenance instructions should be followed.
AC Power Supply — Connect the product only to a properly sized and fused AC supply circuit of the correct voltage.
Grounding — Use only with a proper Earth ground and the supplied 3 conductor power cord.
Power Cord Protection — Power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to plugs and the point from which the cords exit the product.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
Disconnect — The product should be disconnected from the power supply during power outages, lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Moisture - The product should be protected from moisture and should not be used in or near water.
Service and Repair — Refer all service and repair as required to qualified service personnel. Do not attempt repair.
Ventilation — Ensure that the product is installed where adequate airflow is present and that the ventilation openings are unobstructed.
Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.
Cover — To prevent the possibility of electrical shock do not remove the cover.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
•
•
•
•
FCC Part 15 Compliance
Page 3
Page 3
SP Series User Manual
Welcome to Vibe Labs
Thank you for investing in the SP Series of professional power amplifiers from Vibe Labs! Your trust is well placed in what we believe to be one of the best specified, best designed and best built digital power amplifiers available. We have spent countless hours poring over the many details that make up a sophisticated product like the SP series to ensure that you enjoy many years of flawless performance.
Please take the time to read through this User Manual in order to fully appreciate all of the features and benefits of the SP series. Or, if you are experienced go ahead and read over the Quick Start on page 4. Ultra-seasoned “road dogs” might be tempted to skip even those instructions. If that’s the case then at least please check these two items so that we don’t blow anything up:
1. Make sure the AC VOLTAGE SWITCH is set correctly for your region.
2. Do not connect a BRIDGED MONO load to the amplifier; it will fail immediately.
Now if you’d like to discover all of the other features such as the switchable noise gate, auto-mute gain control and security lock functions or you’d like more information about controlling and monitoring the amplifier from a computer, then you’d best read on. The SP series has a lot to offer and we want you to get the very most out of it.
Finally, I’d like to encourage you to think about how you may be able to reduce your carbon footprint in this age of environmental awareness. At Vibe Labs we’ve made a commitment to become carbon neutral by reducing, re-using and recycling. While we can’t do it alone we know that every little bit helps. You can do your part by turning off devices (including this amplifier) when not in use. It’s only one small step but it will make a difference.
Thanks again for putting your trust in Vibe Labs.
Sincerely
Costa Lakoumentas
Founder & CEO
Page 4
Page 4
SP Series User Manual
QUICK START GUIDE
It is strongly recommended that you read this User Manual in its entirity. However if you need to get up and running immediately please observe the following :
<2 OHMS
Do not connect speakers with a total load impedence of less than 2 Ohms per channel.
2.
BRIDGE
Do not bridge the amplifier outputs.3.
12
3
Pin 2 (+)
Pin 3 (-)
Pin 1 (S)
Balanced XLR
Left (+)
Balanced Euroblock
Connect input signals.4.
Adjust gain as needed.6.
115
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
Check the voltage select switch and make sure it is set correctly for your region.
1.
Connect to AC power and turn amplifier ON.5.
Set the MUTE PROTECT mode as described on Page 16 of this manual.
7.
Page 5
Page 5
SP Series User Manual
SP series power amplifiers combine sophisticated digital signal processing with high-efficiency Class D power amplification for a wide range of professional audio applications. Included VibeNET™ SP software allows complete control over all signal processing, gain and test functions as well as real-time monitoring of levels and temperature from a connected PC either by USB or Cat5 cabling.
SP Series amplifiers may be operated on either 115VAC or 230VAC. The correct voltage is selected on the rear panel through the voltage select switch. While all amplifiers are set correctly at the factory for their intended destination country you are advised to confirm the setting before connecting the amplifier to the power supply for the first time.
AC Voltage Select
115
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
This product is designed to be connected and used only as recommended in this User Manual. To ensure electrical safety it must be connected to a properly rated and fused AC power supply that is grounded. Do not connect to a power supply that is ungrounded or where the power cord is missing the ground connection.
1. INTRODUCTION
2. UNPACKING & INSPECTION
The shipping carton contains:
SP series amplifier Printed copy of this user manual IEC AC power cable Two Euroblock Input connectors One Euroblock Output connector One USB cable One CD-ROM with VibeNET software
The amplifier should be checked for any damage that may have been caused in transport. Verify that all of the components are in the box. Please consider recycling the carton.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
3. SAFETY
4. AC VOLTAGE
© Copyright 2009, Vibe Labs, Inc.
Vibe Labs™ is a trademark of Vibe Labs, Inc.
All other trademarks used in this manual are the property of their respective owners.
No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, scanned or posted witout the express
written permission of Vibe Labs, Inc.
Page 6
Page 6
SP Series User Manual
1. Carrying handles.
2. Air vents – DO NOT BLOCK!
3. Display bezel.
4. LCD display screen.
1 32 4
5 6 7 8
5. AC power switch.
6. Channel A Gain control / Setup encoder.
7. Channel B Gain control / Setup encoder.
8. USB connection point (to computer).
5. FRONT PANEL
Page 7
Page 7
SP Series User Manual
1. AC Voltage select switch.
2. Magnetic Circuit Breaker.
3. Euroblock speaker outputs.
4. Euroblock line level inputs.
5. VibeNET™ input jack (to computer).
6. VibeNET™ output jack (to next amplifier).
115
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12
7. Cooling fan grille – DO NOT BLOCK.
8. AC Input socket (IEC).
9. Channel B speaker output (NL4).
10. Channel A&B speaker output (NL4).
11. Combination XLR/TRS line inputs.
12. Serial Number label.
6. REAR PANEL
Page 8
Page 8
SP Series User Manual
SP series amplifiers are fitted with the three most popular connector types for signal input; XLR/TRS combination input jacks as well as detachable Euroblock­style connectors.
All connectors will accept balanced or unbalanced signals from a variety of high and low-impedance source devices. For optimal performance and signal integrity it is highly recommended that all signal sources be balanced. Unbalanced connections can introduce noise and hum into the signal chain and should be avoided.
Keep the connecting cables between the amplifier and the source device as short as possible to minimize the potential for interference from other electrical devices. Where possible run signal cables away from sources of electro-magnetic interference such as lighting dimmers, refrigeration compressors, electric motors, fans and other similar devices.
Balanced Signals
Balanced signals use cables with two conductors plus a shield drain wire. One conductor is labelled (+) and represents the POSITIVE or HOT terminal. The second conductor is labelled (-) and represents the NEGATIVE or COLD terminal. The drain wire is labelled (S) and represents the SHIELD or GROUND terminal.
XLR connectors should be wired as per AES14-1992, with Pin 2 Positive-polarity, Pin 3 Negative-polarity and Pin 1 Shield.
Euroblock connectors provide a quick and secure audio connection that does not require soldering yet allows the connector to be detached easily as needed. Matching terminal plugs are provided for each channel and are installed on the amplifier. Terminate the wires as shown in the diagram and as printed on the rear of the amplifier.
Balanced TRS connectors are to be wired with Tip Positive-polarity, Ring Negative­polarity and Sleeve Shield.
VibeNET
IN OUT
12
3
Pin 2 (+)
Pin 3 (-)
Pin 1 (S)
Sleeve(S)
Ring (-)
Tip (+)
Balanced XLR
Balanced TRS
Right (S)
Center (-)
Left (+)
Balanced Euroblock
7. INPUT CONNECTIONS
Page 9
Page 9
SP Series User Manual
Unbalanced Signals
Unbalanced connections are not recommended for professional applications because they are susceptible to interference from other electrical devices. Depending on the cable length and routing unbalanced connections may also pick up radio interfernce from mobile telephones or communication devices.
Unbalanced connections use only two conductors, where one conductor is labelled (+) and represents the POSITIVE or HOT terminal. The second conductor
12
3
Pin 2 (+)
Pin 3 (S)
Sleeve(S)
Tip (+)
Unbalanced XLR
Unbalanced TRS
Center (S)
Left (+)
Unbalanced Euroblock
is actually the shield drain wire and is labelled (S) and represents the SHIELD or GROUND terminal.
Unbalanced sources may be connected using any of the three connector types; XLR, ¼"-TRS or Euroblock.
Connect unbalanced sources using the positive conductor to the amplifier’s positive (+) terminal and the shield to the negative (-) terminal. Do not connect the shield to the shield (S) terminal on the amplifier.
Page 10
Page 10
SP Series User Manual
Amplifier outputs are provided on two Neutrik NL4 connectors and a detachable four-pin Euroblock connector.
Channel B Connector
The channel B connector is wired to the channel B amplifier only.
When wiring the cable connector use pins 1+ and 1-, with + connected to the positive terminal of the speaker and ­connected to the negative terminal.
1+
1-
Channel B
NL4 Connector Wiring
1+
1-
2+
2-
Channel A
NL4 Connector Wiring
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
The NL4 connectors are will accept industry standard Neutrik
®
NL2 or
NL4 cable connectors. The Euroblock connector is wired in parallel with the NL4 connectors, allowing both connections to be used in tandem. Minimum load impedance is 2 Ohms per channel.
Channel A Connector
The channel A NL4 connector is factory wired to both amplifier channels. This permits connection of both amplifier channels to two separate speaker loads using only one cable connector. This wiring arrangement is recommended for bi-amp applications where one cable feeds a speaker cabinet.
When wiring the cable connector use pins 1+ and 1- for channel A and pins 2+ and 2- for channel B, with + connected to the positive terminal of the speaker and
- connected to the negative terminal. DO
NOT COMBINE THE COMMON TERMINALS OR WIRE FOR BRIDGED OPERATION.
Euroblock Connector
The Euroblock connector is supplied with a matching 4-conductor plug. This plug will accept up to 8 AWG (3.26mm) solid or stranded wire. Simply strip the wire back approximately 5/16” (8mm), insert in the opening and turn the clamping screw with a flat-bladed screwdriver. The plug is inserted in the connector and securely fastened with the two security screws located on the plug.
CH B
(+)
(+)
CH A
9. OUTPUT CONNECTIONS
Page 11
Page 11
SP Series User Manual
DANGER: SP series amplifiers are not designed for Bridged operation. The two channels must be
connected individually to electrically isolated loads with balanced wiring (2 conductors). Do not under any circumstances connect the two amplifier channels together in Bridge mode or combine the ground (Negative-polarity) connections. Such connections will result in immediate catastrophic failure of the amplifier and void the warranty.
SP series amplifiers are designed to be used in conjunction with a PC compatible computer. Initial setup of the signal processors requires a computer with the supplied VibeNET™ application software installed. Although a computer is not required after initial setup one can be used to provide real time monitoring of the amplifier’s output levels and internal temperature.
Connection between the computer and the amplifier is made using the supplied USB cable. Connect one end to an available USB port on the computer and the other end to the front panel mounted USB connector on the amplifier.
Two network ports are provided on the rear panel for the creation of larger systems consisting of more than one amplifier. These ports allow for the connection of up to 256 amplifiers to one computer using standard Category 5 network cables. Use the optional ptional LiNC serial interface to interface between the computer and the network ports.
Further details on the setup and operation of the VibeNET™ software can be found in the documentation and help files supplied with the application.
VibeNET™ Software
The VibeNET™ software application is furnished on a CD-ROM. Please check the Vibe Labs website for the latest version information.
VibeNET™ requires a PC compatible computer running the Microsoft Windows 2000/XP/VISTA operating system. For further detail consult the help file in the application itself.
10. COMPUTER CONNECTIONS
Page 12
Page 12
SP Series User Manual
The USB cable has a type A connector on the end that connects to the computer as shown here.
The end which connects to the amplifier has a type B connector.
USB Connection
Connection via USB requires a compatible PC running Windows 2000/XP with a USB
1.1 or later communication port and a suitable USB A to B cable such as the one supplied with every SP amplifier.
VibeNET Network Connection
The VibeNET™ network ports on the rear panel allow the connection of up to 256 amplifiers to one computer using standard Category 5 network cable, also known as Ethernet cable. The ports are labelled IN and OUT, allowing connection of multiple amplifiers in a “daisy chain” arrangement without the use of hubs or other network hardware.
Connection of a computer to the VibeNET™ ports requires the use of an optional computer interface. Two interfaces are offered; one for use with a USB port on the host computer and
VibeNET™ SP software must be installed in order to connect with and control the amplifier. Follow the instructions included with the installation disk to fully install the application before connecting an amplifier to the computer.
Once the software is installed simply connect the USB cable to the computer and then connect to the SP series amplifier. Windows will recognize the amplifier after which it can be controlled by the computer.
another model for use with a standard serial port. Both interfaces connect using Cat5 cable and can address up to 64
amplifiers on one cable network.
Follow the instructions supplied with the serial interface to install it on your computer. In some cases you may be required to install driver software. Once installed the interface can be connected to the amplifiers using Cat5 cables.
VibeNET™ is designed to address up to 256 devices in groups of 64. A separate serial interface is required for each group of 64 amplifiers that will be connected to one computer. Ensure that the computer offers a sufficient number of available COM ports to support the number of interfaces required in the system.
Before connecting the interface to the amplifiers ensure that the amplifier network addresses have been set and that there are no conflicts. Refer to the section on Setup Amplifier ID for further information.
Page 13
Page 13
SP Series User Manual
Connect the network cable to the computer interface, then plug the other end of the cable into the VibeNET™ IN port of the first amplifier in the network. A cable connected to the OUT port can connect to the next amplifier in the network.
NOTE: VibeNET™ SP software must be installed on the connected computer in order to control and monitor an SP amplifier.
115
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
115
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
TO COMPUTER
TIP: VibeNET™ SP software requires you to choose the computer’s COM port that is being used to connect to the SP amplifier. To find out which COM port the interface is using simply open Windows System Information, Components and USB or Ports, depending on the type of interface you are using.
Page 14
Page 14
SP Series User Manual
3
1
2
The LCD display screen serves several important functions. During normal operation it indicates amplifier output and gain settings. In setup mode it permits access to and control over several system options.
Power On Display
On system power-up the screen will display the amplifier model number for approximately 3 seconds.
Control Section
1. Channel A encoder and switch.
2. Channel B encoder and switch.
3. LCD display screen.
Gain Control
During normal operation the encoders serve as gain controls. Rotate clockwise to increase gain and counter-clockwise to decrease. Press and release either encoder to display the current gain settings for both channels. The screen will indicate the gain in decibels relative to full output.
VU Display
The display will indicate relative output level with a bar graph as well as a numeric value calibrated in decibels.
The screen will then display the version number of the currently loaded Firmware.
11. DISPLAY & CONTROLS
Page 15
Page 15
SP Series User Manual
Setup Mode
Each of the encoders offers access to a separate group of system setup options. These options are accessible when the amplifier is in setup mode.
To enter setup mode press and hold the encoder for four seconds. The display will change and indicate the first of four options available under that encoder.
Holding the encoder down will cycle the display between the four menu selections and back to the operating mode.
Release the encoder when the desired option is displayed to make adjustments to it. Rotate the encoder to change parameters. Press and release the encoder to store the setting. The setting is saved and the amplifier exits setup mode.
Note that there are four options available under each of the two encoders as indicated below:
Control A Menu
Setup Amplifier ID Noise Gate Setup
Firmware Installed Display Operating Temperature Display
Control B Menu
Load Program Volume Mute Protect Setting Gain Link Setting Control Security Setting
Setup Amplifier ID
Amplifier ID numbers are used to identify specific amplifiers in a VibeNET™ network. Each amplifier connected to the network must be assigned a unique ID number between 1 and 256. ID numbers may only be assigned from the front panel.
To change the ID number enter setup mode using the CH A encoder. Release the encoder when SETUP AMPLIFIER ID is displayed. Rotate the encoder to set the ID number. Press and release the encoder to save the setting and exit setup mode.
• Default ID Number: 1
Noise Gate Setup
The noise gate function will mute the amplifier when there is no signal present at the inputs, reducing unwanted noise from mixers, processors and other connected source devices. The noise gate threshold is fixed at -60dB.
To change the NOISE GATE setting enter setup mode using the CH A encoder. Release the encoder when NOISE GATE SETUP is displayed. Rotate the encoder to select between ON and OFF. Press and release the encoder to save the setting and exit setup mode.
• Default Setting: ON
Page 16
Page 16
SP Series User Manual
Firmware Installed
To view the firmware version currently installed in the amplifier enter setup mode using the CH A encoder. Release the encoder when FIRMWARE is displayed. This is an informational screen only and no changes are permitted.
To change between saved presets enter setup mode using the CH B encoder. Release the encoder when LOAD PROGRAM is displayed. Rotate the encoder to scroll between PROGRAM 1 and 21. Press and release the encoder to save the setting and exit setup mode.
• Default setting: P21 (No EQ, Crossover, Delay or Limiter)
Temperature Indication
To view the operating temperature of the amplifier enter setup mode using the CH A encoder. Release the encoder when TEMPERATURE is displayed. This is an informational screen only and no changes are permitted.
To display the temperature reading at all times simply press and hold the control for 5 seconds while temperature is displayed. This display will overide the VU display.
Load Program
SP amplifiers can store up to 20 user defined preset configurations. Presets store all DSP settings, gain settings and device names to non-volatile memory in the amplifier. Settings can be recalled by selecting the appropritae preset.
Volume Mute Protect
This option determines the gain setting when the amplifier is switched on. When AUTO MUTE:OFF is selected the amplifier will revert to the last gain setting before it was powered down. When AUTO MUTE: ON is selected the amplifier will start with both outputs muted.
To change between mute protect settings enter setup mode using the CH B encoder. Release the encoder when VOLUME MUTE PROTECT is displayed. Rotate the encoder to select between ON and OFF. Press and release the encoder to save the setting and exit setup mode.
• Default Setting: Auto Mute: OFF
Page 17
Page 17
SP Series User Manual
Gain Link
This option links the function of the two gain controls, allowing both channels to be adjusted simultaneously by either gain control. When GAIN LINK is ON, either gain control will affect both channels. When the option is OFF, gain controls are independent.
To change between gain link settings enter setup mode using the CH B encoder. Release the encoder whenGAIN LINK SETUP is displayed. Rotate the encoder to select between ON and OFF. Press and release the encoder to save the setting and exit setup mode.
• Default Setting: OFF
Security
This option allows the user to lock out the front panel controls preventing tampering and adjustment.
To lock the controls enter setup mode using the CH B encoder. Release the encoder when SECURITY SETUP is displayed.
Rotate the encoder to select ON. Press and release the encoder to save the setting.
The display will prompt you to enter a four character security code. The code can include any combination of letters, numbers and symbols in the system.
Rotate the encoder to display the first character of the desired security code. Press to select and advance the prompt to the next character. Repeat until all four characters have been selected.
Once all characters have been entered you will be prompted to confirm the security code. Repeat the steps outlined above.
Successful confirmation of the security code will immediately lock the front panel controls and exit setup mode.
When security mode is active pressing or turning the controls will prompt the user for the security code. Successful entry of the stored code will unlock the controls.
• Default Setting: OFF
Page 18
Page 18
SP Series User Manual
SP series amplifiers are designed to be operated continuously in demanding professional audio applications. To ensure continued trouble-free operation make sure that your amplifiers are properly connected, powered and protected and that there is sufficient airflow around them. The following items are considered good practice and should be implemented in every installation.
Power
Ensure that each amplifier is connected to a properly rated power outlet that is fused for the anticipated load. Do not share outlets with other devices or appliances and ensure that the selected AC circuit does not also feed other outlets or lights. Where possible, locate the amplifiers close to the breaker panel or transformer or ensure that the feeder cables are sufficiently rated to ensure a minimum of voltage sag under load.
Grounding
Amplifiers should be properly grounded to Earth through the building’s electrical system. It is strongly advised that you test the actual integrity of the grounding system in the venue with a proper electrical tester. Never operate the amplifier without a proper ground, or use a two-conductor AC input cable. Performance will be degraded and a severe risk of injury or death could be posed by such operation.
Signal Cables
All input signal cables should be properly shielded and balanced. While SP series amplifiers will accept unbalanced signals, noise performance and signal integrity will be degraded, especially in areas
of high electro-magnetic fields or near commercial or consumer transmitters, computers or networking equipment.
Speaker Cables
Ensure that all speaker cables are sized correctly for the speakers connected and the powered being delivered to them. A large portion of the electrical energy delivered at the amplifier’s output can be lost to heat in the speaker cabling, unless it is sized correctly. Calculating the correct size of the wire needed requires knowing the load impedance, the amount of power to be delivered and the total length of the speaker run.
Cooling
SP series amplifiers are highly efficient, converting most of the electrical power they draw into power at the outputs, and not heat. Most of the time they are cooled passively and the internal fan does not run, but under continued use at higher power levels the fan will start to ensure that the amplifier does not overheat. The fan pulls air in from the rear of the amplifier and expels air from the front.
12. OPERATION
Page 19
Page 19
SP Series User Manual
It is critical that the front and rear air vents are not obstructed and that the amplifier is located in a space where there is sufficient air volume and circulation to ensure continued cooling.
Avoid installing the amplifiers in a closed cabinet or a small room without access to fresh air circulation. Amplifiers mounted
in a rack will require vent panels to be installed, possibly with supplemental fans to continually exchange the air inside the rack. In larger installations supplemental room cooling may be required to maintain the ambient temperature within operational limits.
115
VibeNET
IN OUT
OUTPUTS
14.7”/375mm
16.2”/412mm
17.1”/435mm
3.5”/
88mm
3.5”/
88mm
3.5”/
88mm
19.0”/482mm
© Copyright 2009, Vibe Labs, Inc.
Vibe Labs™ is a trademark of Vibe Labs, Inc.
All other trademarks used in this manual are the property of their respective owners.
No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, scanned or posted witout the express
written permission of Vibe Labs, Inc.
Page 20
Vibe Labs, Inc. 250 H Street, #549 Blaine WA 98230 www.vibelabs.com
SP Series User Manual Version B
Loading...