1. Introduction
The Avantree Audikast 4 is a state-of-the-art Bluetooth 5.4 audio transmitter designed to enhance your TV listening experience. It allows you to wirelessly stream audio from your television to Bluetooth headphones for private listening or to Auracast-enabled hearing aids for direct, clear sound. Featuring Qualcomm aptX Adaptive technology, it delivers low-latency, high-resolution audio over a long operating range. Its intuitive controls and future-proof firmware updates ensure a seamless and adaptable audio solution for your home entertainment.
2. Package Contents
- Avantree Audikast 4 Bluetooth Transmitter
- USB-C Power Cable
- Optical Audio Cable (TOSLINK)
- 3.5mm AUX Audio Cable
- User Manual (this document)
Image: Avantree Audikast 4 transmitter with included cables (USB-C, Optical, 3.5mm AUX).
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the Audikast 4's components and controls for optimal use.
Image: Close-up of Audikast 4 controls with labels for LED indicators, Auracast, Volume, and Classic Bluetooth.
- LED for Hearing Aids: Indicates connection status for Auracast hearing aids.
- LED for Headphones: Indicates connection status for Classic Bluetooth headphones.
- Auracast Button: Initiates Auracast broadcast mode.
- Volume Adjustment (+/-) & Reset: Controls audio volume and can be used for reset functions.
- Classic Bluetooth Button: Initiates Classic Bluetooth pairing mode.
- ON/OFF Switch: Power switch for the device.
- DCIN (USB-C Port): Power input.
- OPTICAL Port: Digital audio input.
- AUX Port: Analog audio input (3.5mm).
Image: Audikast 4 input ports (USB-C, Optical, AUX) and note on RCA compatibility.
4. Setup
4.1 Powering On/Off
To power on the Audikast 4, slide the ON/OFF switch to the "ON" position. To power off, slide it to "OFF".
4.2 Connecting to Your TV (Audio Input)
The Audikast 4 supports both Optical (TOSLINK) and 3.5mm AUX audio inputs. Choose the connection type available on your TV.
- Power the Audikast 4: Connect the provided USB-C power cable to the DCIN port on the Audikast 4 and plug the other end into a USB charger (5V/1A, not included) or a TV USB port.
- Select Audio Input:
- Optical (Recommended for best quality): Connect one end of the Optical audio cable to your TV's "Optical Out" or "Digital Audio Out (Optical)" port and the other end to the OPTICAL port on the Audikast 4. Ensure your TV's audio output is set to "PCM" or "Stereo" (not Dolby/DTS).
- 3.5mm AUX: Connect one end of the 3.5mm AUX audio cable to your TV's "Audio Out" or headphone jack and the other end to the AUX port on the Audikast 4.
- RCA (Requires Adapter): If your TV only has RCA (Red/White) audio outputs, you will need an RCA to 3.5mm AUX adapter (not included). Connect the RCA ends to your TV and the 3.5mm end to the AUX port on the Audikast 4.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Pairing with Bluetooth Headphones (Classic Bluetooth)
This mode allows you to connect one pair of Bluetooth headphones for private listening.
- Ensure the Audikast 4 is powered on and connected to your TV's audio output.
- Put your Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode (refer to your headphone's manual).
- On the Audikast 4, press the Classic Bluetooth button (headphone icon). The LED for Headphones will flash rapidly, indicating it's in pairing mode.
- Keep the headphones and Audikast 4 close to each other. Once connected, the LED for Headphones will turn solid.
- You should now hear TV audio through your headphones.
Image: Wireless TV listening with Audikast 4 and Bluetooth headphones.
5.2 Pairing with Auracast Hearing Aids
The Audikast 4 supports Auracast broadcast for compatible hearing aids. This requires an Auracast-compatible phone or hearing aid app to connect.
- Ensure the Audikast 4 is powered on and connected to your TV's audio output.
- Put your Auracast-enabled hearing aids into pairing/broadcast listening mode (refer to your hearing aid's manual or app).
- On the Audikast 4, press the Auracast button (broadcast icon). The LED for Hearing Aids will flash rapidly.
- Use your Auracast-compatible phone or hearing aid app to scan for available Auracast broadcasts. Select the Audikast 4 from the list.
- Once connected, the LED for Hearing Aids will turn solid.
- You should now hear TV audio directly through your hearing aids.
Image: Auracast compatibility with different hearing aid brands.
5.3 Audio Sharing (Auracast Broadcast)
The Audikast 4 can broadcast audio to multiple Auracast-compatible devices simultaneously, ideal for group listening.
- Follow the steps in section 5.2 to initiate an Auracast broadcast from the Audikast 4.
- Multiple Auracast-compatible headphones or hearing aids can then connect to this single broadcast. Each user will need to use their device's Auracast scanning function to find and join the broadcast.
Image: Multiple listeners sharing audio via Auracast broadcast from Audikast 4.
5.4 Volume Control
Use the + and - buttons on the Audikast 4 to adjust the audio volume for connected devices. Note that some headphones/hearing aids may also have their own volume controls.
5.5 LED Indicators
The LEDs on the Audikast 4 provide visual feedback on its status:
- Flashing rapidly: Device is in pairing mode.
- Solid: Device is successfully connected.
- Off: Device is not connected or powered off.
6. Troubleshooting
Here are solutions to common issues you might encounter:
- No sound from headphones/hearing aids:
- Ensure the Audikast 4 is powered on and correctly connected to your TV's audio output.
- Verify your TV's audio output settings (e.g., set to PCM for Optical).
- Confirm your headphones/hearing aids are successfully paired and connected (check LED indicators).
- Adjust volume on both the Audikast 4 and your listening device.
- Cannot pair with headphones:
- Ensure both the Audikast 4 and your headphones are in pairing mode.
- Keep devices close during pairing.
- Try resetting both devices and attempting to pair again.
- Auracast not working with hearing aids:
- Confirm your hearing aids are Auracast-compatible.
- Ensure you are using the correct method (phone app or hearing aid controls) to scan for Auracast broadcasts.
- Only one person can listen in Auracast mode:
- Classic Bluetooth only supports one device. Auracast allows multi-listening but requires all listening devices to be Auracast-compatible.
7. Specifications
Image: Detailed specifications for the Avantree Audikast 4.
| Feature | Detail | Feature | Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.4 | Input Voltage / Current | DC 5V / 1A |
| Supported Audio Codecs | aptX Adaptive, aptX-HD, SBC, LC3 (24/48 kHz) | Power Supply | USB charger or TV USB port |
| Supported Bluetooth Profiles | A2DP, LE Audio (Auracast Broadcast) | Power Port | USB-C |
| Audio Latency | 60ms~ | Firmware Upgradable | Yes (DFU support) |
| Audio Input | Optical (TOSLINK), 3.5 MM AUX | Product Size | 2.87 × 2.68 × 2.64in |
| Operating Range | Up to 100ft (30m) | Product Weight | 1.34oz |
8. Maintenance
8.1 Firmware Updates
The Audikast 4 supports firmware updates (DFU) via its USB-C port. This ensures your device remains compatible with the latest Bluetooth audio standards and receives performance improvements. Visit the Avantree support website for the latest firmware and instructions on how to update.
8.2 Cleaning
Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
9. User Tips
- For the best audio quality and lowest latency, ensure your headphones also support aptX Adaptive or aptX-HD.
- When using the Optical input, always check your TV's audio settings to ensure it's outputting PCM/Stereo format. Dolby/DTS formats are not supported by the Audikast 4.
- If experiencing interference or range issues, try to minimize obstacles between the Audikast 4 and your listening device.
- Keep the firmware updated to benefit from the latest features and compatibility improvements.
10. Warranty & Support
For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please visit the official Avantree website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
