Introduction
The Klipsch AW-400 is a compact and durable all-weather loudspeaker designed for both indoor and outdoor environments. It delivers high-quality sound with efficient power handling, making it suitable for various spaces. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your AW-400 speakers.
Figure 1: Front view of the Klipsch AW-400 speaker with grille.
Key Features:
- High sensitivity and power handling for clear audio.
- Paintable UV-resistant ABS enclosure with rustproof aluminum grille for durability.
- 90° x 90° Tractrix Horn tweeter for precise high-frequency sound.
- Supplied with a C-style mounting bracket and stainless steel hardware for versatile installation.
- 3/8"-16 threaded insert for compatibility with optional mounts.
Safety Instructions
Please read and follow all safety instructions to prevent injury or damage to your equipment.
- Read Instructions: Carefully read all instructions before operating the speakers.
- Retain Instructions: Keep this manual for future reference.
- Heed Warnings: Observe all warnings on the product and in this manual.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to all operating and usage instructions.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Mounting: Mount speakers securely using the provided hardware or appropriate optional mounts. Ensure the mounting surface can support the speaker's weight.
- Wiring: Ensure all wiring is correctly connected and insulated to prevent short circuits or electrical hazards. Use appropriate gauge speaker wire (16-gauge or heavier stranded copper wire is recommended).
- Power: Do not exceed the speaker's rated power handling (50 watts continuous, 200 watts peak).
- Placement: Avoid placing speakers near heat sources, radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Water and Moisture: While designed for outdoor use, avoid direct submersion or prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions beyond their design limits. Ensure the easy draining input cup is clear.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Klipsch AW-400 Indoor/Outdoor Speaker (Pair)
- Removable non-corrosive grille (pre-installed)
- Heavy-gauge zinc C-bracket (2 per speaker)
- Stainless steel mounting hardware
- 0.375 inch 16-threaded insert (pre-installed)
Setup
Mounting the Speakers
The AW-400 speakers come with a heavy-gauge zinc C-bracket for secure mounting. The enclosure is UV-resistant ABS plastic, suitable for outdoor exposure.
- Choose Location: Select a suitable indoor or outdoor location. Ensure the mounting surface is strong enough to support the speaker's weight (approximately 5.1 pounds per speaker) and any additional forces from wind or vibration.
- Attach Bracket: Position the C-bracket on the desired mounting surface. Mark the drill points through the bracket holes.
- Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes appropriate for the mounting hardware.
- Secure Bracket: Attach the C-bracket to the surface using the supplied stainless steel hardware. Ensure it is firmly secured.
- Attach Speaker to Bracket: Align the speaker with the C-bracket. The speaker has threaded inserts that mate with the bracket. Use the provided knobs or bolts to secure the speaker to the bracket, allowing for angle adjustment.
- Adjust Angle: Once secured, adjust the speaker's angle for optimal sound dispersion. Tighten the knobs/bolts to lock the speaker in position.
Figure 2: Side view of the Klipsch AW-400 speaker showing the C-bracket for mounting.
Figure 3: Rear view of the Klipsch AW-400 speaker showing the wiring terminals and bracket attachment points.
Wiring the Speakers
The AW-400 speakers are passive and require connection to an external amplifier or receiver. Proper wiring is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
- Speaker Wire: Use high-quality stranded copper speaker wire. A minimum of 16-gauge wire is recommended, but the speakers can accommodate up to 12-gauge wire for longer runs or higher power applications.
- Polarity: Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and – to –) when connecting the speakers to your amplifier. The terminals on the speaker are color-coded (red for positive, black for negative).
- Connect to Amplifier: Connect the positive (+) terminal of the speaker to the positive (+) speaker output terminal on your amplifier. Connect the negative (–) terminal of the speaker to the negative (–) speaker output terminal on your amplifier.
- Secure Connections: Ensure all connections are tight and secure to prevent signal loss or short circuits.
Operating Instructions
Once properly installed and wired, your Klipsch AW-400 speakers are ready for use.
- Power On: Turn on your amplifier or receiver.
- Source Selection: Select the desired audio source on your amplifier.
- Volume Control: Start with the volume at a low level and gradually increase it to your preferred listening level.
- Power Handling: The AW-400 speakers are designed to handle 50 watts of continuous power at 8 ohms, with a peak power handling of 200 watts. Avoid exceeding these limits to prevent damage.
- Sound Adjustment: Use the tone controls (bass/treble) on your amplifier to adjust the sound to your preference.
Maintenance
The Klipsch AW-400 speakers are built for durability and require minimal maintenance.
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the speaker enclosure and grille with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Grille Care: The aluminum grille is rustproof. If it becomes discolored or dirty, it can be gently cleaned. The grille is removable if necessary for deeper cleaning, but exercise care to avoid damaging the drivers.
- Drainage: Ensure the easy draining input cup on the speaker remains clear of debris to allow proper water drainage.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the mounting brackets and wiring connections for any signs of wear, corrosion, or loosening, especially in outdoor installations. Tighten any loose hardware.
- Painting: The UV-resistant ABS enclosure is paintable. If you choose to paint the speakers, ensure the paint is suitable for outdoor use and does not clog the grille perforations or interfere with the speaker's moving parts.
Figure 4: Front view of the Klipsch AW-400 speaker with the grille removed, revealing the 4-inch IMG woofer and 1-inch polymer Tractrix horn tweeter.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your Klipsch AW-400 speakers, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from speakers. |
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| Distorted or unclear sound. |
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| Lack of bass response. |
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Specifications
| Brand | Klipsch |
| Model Number | AW-400 |
| Speaker Type | Indoor/Outdoor Speaker |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 400 Watts (Peak) |
| Continuous Power Handling | 50 Watts (at 8 ohms) |
| Frequency Response | 91 Hz - 20,000 Hz |
| Woofer | 4-inch IMG (Injection Molded Graphite) |
| Tweeter | 1-inch Polymer with Tractrix Horn |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount (C-bracket included), 3/8"-16 threaded insert |
| Enclosure Material | UV-resistant ABS Plastic |
| Grille Material | Rustproof Aluminum |
| Color | White |
| Waterproof | Yes (All-weather design) |
| Item Weight | 5.1 Pounds (per speaker) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 6.5 x 9.5 x 7.25 inches (16.5 x 24.1 x 18.4 cm) |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired (Passive Speaker) |
| Recommended Wire Gauge | 16-gauge or heavier stranded copper wire |
Warranty Information
Klipsch provides a limited manufacturer's warranty for the AW-400 speakers. Specific terms and duration may vary by region and purchase date. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official Klipsch website or contact Klipsch customer support.
Support
For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Klipsch AW-400 speakers, please contact Klipsch customer support or visit their official website.
Online Resources: Visit the Klipsch Store on Amazon
Please have your model number (AW-400) and proof of purchase ready when contacting support.
