PreSonus Eris E4.5-2-Way 4.5" Near Field Studio Monitor (Pair) 1st Generation User Manual

1. Introduction

The PreSonus Eris E4.5 Near Field Studio Monitors are designed to provide accurate and balanced sound reproduction for various audio applications. These compact monitors are suitable for music production, content creation, gaming, and general listening environments. They feature a 4.5-inch woven-composite low-frequency transducer and a 1-inch silk-dome high-frequency transducer, powered by 50W Class AB amplification. The Eris E4.5 monitors include flexible connectivity options and acoustic tuning controls to optimize their performance for your specific room acoustics.

Image 1.1: A pair of PreSonus Eris E4.5 studio monitors, showcasing their compact design and front-panel controls.

Image 1.2: The Eris E4.5 monitors highlighted with descriptive terms: Honest, Expressive, Powerful, emphasizing their audio characteristics.

2. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking your PreSonus Eris E4.5 monitors, please ensure all the following components are present:

• One (1) pair of Eris E4.5 monitors (one active, one passive)
• One (1) 1.5M 1/8-inch TRS stereo cable
• One (1) 1.5M 1/8-inch TRS to 2x RCA cable
• One (1) 2M bare-wire speaker cable
• Eight (8) Foam feet (4 to be placed on the bottom of each speaker for isolation)
• One (1) Power Cable
• One (1) Quick Start Guide

3. Setup

Proper setup of your Eris E4.5 monitors is crucial for optimal audio performance. Follow these steps to connect and position your speakers.

3.1 Speaker Placement

Position the active monitor (with the power switch and controls) on your preferred side, typically the right. Place the passive monitor on the opposite side. For best stereo imaging, position the monitors so that they form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. Ensure the tweeters are at ear level. Apply the included foam feet to the bottom of each speaker to improve acoustic isolation from your desk or stand.

Image 3.1: Eris E4.5 monitors positioned on a studio desk, demonstrating typical placement near a mixing console.

3.2 Connections

1. Connect Passive Speaker: Use the supplied bare-wire speaker cable to connect the active monitor to the passive monitor. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
2. Audio Input:
   • TRS/RCA Inputs: For connecting to an audio interface, mixer, or other professional audio equipment, use the ¼-inch balanced TRS or RCA inputs on the rear panel of the active monitor.
   • Aux Input: For connecting mobile audio devices like smartphones or tablets, use the 1/8-inch stereo line input located on the front panel.
3. Power Connection: Connect the power cable to the active monitor and then to a grounded AC power outlet.

Image 3.2: Detailed view of the rear panel of the active Eris E4.5 monitor, showing the high and low frequency tuning controls, balanced TRS, and RCA input jacks.

Image 3.3: An illustration highlighting the flexible connectivity, high-resolution sound quality, and acoustic tuning controls of the Eris E4.5 monitors.

4. Operating Instructions

This section details the functions of the controls and how to operate your PreSonus Eris E4.5 monitors.

4.1 Front Panel Controls

• Power Switch: Located on the front panel, this switch turns the monitors on or off.
• Volume Control: A convenient front-panel knob allows you to adjust the overall output volume of the monitors.
• Aux In: A 1/8-inch stereo input for quick connection of portable audio devices.
• Headphone Jack: A 1/8-inch stereo output for private listening. Connecting headphones will mute the main speaker output.

Image 4.1: The Eris E4.5 monitors in a typical desktop setup, showing the accessible front-panel controls.

4.2 Rear Panel Acoustic Tuning Controls

The Eris E4.5 monitors feature acoustic tuning controls on the rear panel of the active speaker, allowing you to fine-tune their response to your listening environment.

• High Frequency Control: Adjusts the high-frequency output (treble). Use this to compensate for overly bright or dull room acoustics.
• Low Frequency Control: Adjusts the low-frequency output (bass). Use this to compensate for bass buildup or lack of bass in your room.

Recommendation: Start with both controls at their flat (0 dB) position and adjust incrementally based on your room's sound characteristics and personal preference.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your PreSonus Eris E4.5 monitors, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior surfaces of the monitors. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish.
• Dust Protection: Keep the monitors free from dust. Regular dusting helps prevent dust buildup in vents and on speaker cones.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the monitors in a stable environment, away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight. Ensure adequate ventilation around the rear panel to prevent overheating.
• Power Off: Always power off the monitors when not in use for extended periods.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Eris E4.5 monitors, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

1. No Power:
   • Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the monitor and a working AC outlet.
   • Verify the front-panel power switch is in the "On" position.
2. No Sound:
   • Check all audio cable connections (TRS, RCA, Aux) from your source device to the active monitor.
   • Ensure the volume knob on the front panel is turned up.
   • If headphones are connected, disconnect them as they mute the main speaker output.
   • Verify the audio source device is playing and its volume is up.
   • Ensure the passive speaker is correctly connected to the active speaker with the bare-wire cable, observing polarity.
3. Distorted Sound:
   • Reduce the volume on both the monitors and your audio source. Overdriving the input or output can cause distortion.
   • Check cable integrity; faulty cables can introduce noise or distortion.
   • Ensure the audio source is not sending an overly strong signal.
4. Hum or Hiss:
   • Ensure all audio cables are properly shielded and connected.
   • Try connecting the monitors to a different power outlet, preferably on a different circuit, to rule out ground loop issues.
   • Keep audio cables away from power cables.

7. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the PreSonus Eris E4.5 Near Field Studio Monitors.

Image 7.1: Visual representation of the Eris E4.5 monitor dimensions and highlights of its 50W output, 4 inputs, and Hi-Fi Class AB dual amp.

Image 7.2: A close-up of the 4.5-inch woven composite low-frequency driver, detailing the wide 80 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response and powerful 50W output.

8. Warranty and Support

The PreSonus Eris E4.5 monitors come with a Limited Warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official PreSonus website.

For technical support, product registration, or additional resources, please visit the PreSonus Support Page.