1. Introduction
The Bellman & Symfon Maxi BE2020 is a digital personal communication aid designed to enhance speech and music in various listening environments. It utilizes advanced digital technology to clarify sound and minimize background noise, making it suitable for conversations, television viewing, and listening to music. This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Maxi BE2020 amplifier.
Image 1.1: The Bellman Audio Maxi BE2020 amplifier shown with its included headphones.
2. Product Overview
The Maxi BE2020 amplifier features a compact design with large, tactile buttons for ease of use. It includes a built-in omnidirectional microphone, volume controls, tone adjustment, and a telecoil selector. The device is engineered for clarity and ease of handling.
2.1. Components
- Bellman Audio Maxi BE2020 Amplifier
- Headphones
- 2 x AA Batteries (may be pre-installed or included separately)
- User Manual (this document)
2.2. Controls and Indicators
Image 2.1: Detailed diagram illustrating the controls and connection points on the Bellman Audio Maxi BE2020 amplifier.
- Power Button: Turns the device on or off.
- Mode Button (M/T): Switches between Microphone (M) and Telecoil (T) modes.
- Volume Controls (+/-): Adjusts the listening volume.
- Tone Controls (Treble +/-): Adjusts the sound's treble frequencies for clarity.
- Built-in Omnidirectional Microphone: Captures surrounding sounds.
- Line In Port: For connecting external audio sources (e.g., TV, radio, MP3 player).
- Line Out Port: For connecting headphones, stetoclips, earphones, or hearing aids.
- Battery Indicator: Illuminates to warn when approximately 10 hours of battery life remain.
3. Setup
3.1. Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the Maxi BE2020 amplifier.
- Slide or unclip the cover to open the compartment.
- Insert two (2) AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Replace the battery compartment cover securely.
Note: Use high-quality alkaline AA batteries for optimal performance and battery life.
3.2. Connecting Headphones
Image 3.1: The headphones included with the Bellman Audio Maxi BE2020 amplifier.
- Locate the Line Out port on the Maxi BE2020 amplifier.
- Plug the 3.5mm jack of your headphones (or other listening device) firmly into the Line Out port.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Power On/Off
- To power on, press and hold the Power button until the indicator light illuminates.
- To power off, press and hold the Power button again until the indicator light turns off.
4.2. Adjusting Volume
- Press the '+' button to increase the volume.
- Press the '-' button to decrease the volume.
- The Maxi BE2020 offers 9 steps of volume adjustment, with each step changing the volume by 5 dB.
4.3. Adjusting Tone
- Press the '♪+' button to increase treble frequencies, which can enhance speech clarity.
- Press the '♪-' button to decrease treble frequencies, which can reduce harshness.
4.4. Using the Built-in Microphone
In Microphone (M) mode, the Maxi BE2020's built-in omnidirectional microphone captures sounds from your surroundings. This mode is suitable for conversations, meetings, or listening to ambient sounds.
- Ensure the device is powered on.
- Press the 'M/T' button until the 'M' indicator light is illuminated, indicating Microphone mode.
- Position the amplifier to best capture the sounds you wish to hear.
4.5. Connecting to External Audio Sources (Line-In)
The Line In port allows you to connect the Maxi BE2020 directly to audio sources such as a television, radio, or MP3 player for enhanced listening.
- Connect a 3.5mm audio cable (not included) from the audio output of your external device to the Line In port on the Maxi BE2020.
- The device will automatically switch to Line In mode when a cable is detected.
- Adjust the volume and tone as needed.
4.6. Using the Telecoil Function
The Telecoil (T) mode allows the Maxi BE2020 to pick up signals from inductive loop systems, commonly found in public venues, theaters, or places of worship, for direct audio transmission to your hearing device.
- Ensure the device is powered on.
- Press the 'M/T' button until the 'T' indicator light is illuminated, indicating Telecoil mode.
- Ensure you are within an active inductive loop area.
Image 4.1: The Maxi BE2020 amplifier being used for enhanced television listening.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Cleaning
- Wipe the exterior of the amplifier with a soft, dry cloth.
- Do not use liquid cleaners, solvents, or abrasive materials, as these can damage the device.
- Keep the microphone opening clear of dust and debris.
5.2. Battery Replacement
When the battery indicator light illuminates, it signifies approximately 10 hours of remaining battery life. Replace the batteries promptly to ensure uninterrupted operation. Refer to Section 3.1 for battery installation instructions.
5.3. Storage
When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries from the device to prevent leakage and potential damage. Store the amplifier in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound | Device is off; Low or dead batteries; Headphones not connected; Volume too low. | Ensure device is on; Replace batteries; Check headphone connection; Increase volume. |
| Distorted or unclear sound | Tone setting incorrect; Volume too high; External audio source issue; Microphone obstructed. | Adjust tone controls; Reduce volume; Check external audio source and cable; Clear microphone opening. |
| Short battery life | Old or low-quality batteries; Continuous high volume use. | Replace with new, high-quality AA batteries; Reduce volume if possible. |
| Telecoil not working | Not in Telecoil mode; Outside of inductive loop area. | Ensure 'T' indicator is lit; Move into an active inductive loop area. |
7. Specifications
| Model Name | Maxi BE2020 |
| Technical Model Number | BAMAXI-HP |
| Brand | Bellman & Symfon |
| Power Source | 2 x AA batteries |
| Audio Processing | Digital, 10.948 kHz/16-bit |
| Maximum Amplification | 71 dB |
| Controls | Power, Mode (Microphone/Telecoil), Volume (+/-), Tone (Treble +/-) |
| Inputs | 3.5mm Line-in, Built-in Omnidirectional Microphone |
| Outputs | 3.5mm Line-out |
| Special Features | Telecoil selector, Battery indicator |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1. Warranty Information
The Bellman & Symfon Maxi BE2020 amplifier is covered by a two (2) year warranty from the date of purchase. Please note the following specific warranty periods for related items:
- Bellman Audio Maxi BE2020 Amplifier: Two (2) years
- Maxi Neckloop (sold separately): One (1) year
- Accessories (e.g., cables, headphones): Ninety (90) days
This warranty covers manufacturing defects and material faults under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or normal wear and tear. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
8.2. Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or further information regarding your Bellman & Symfon Maxi BE2020, please contact your authorized dealer or visit the official Bellman & Symfon website for support resources.
