Bowers & Wilkins ZEPAIRLC Zeppelin Air Speaker Dock User Manual

1. Introduction

The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air Speaker Dock is designed to deliver high-fidelity audio from your Apple devices. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Zeppelin Air.

Key features include:

• AirPlay Technology: Stream music wirelessly from your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad (iOS 4.3.3 or later), Mac (OS X Mountain Lion), or Mac/PC with iTunes 10.2.2 or later.
• Lightning Connector Dock: Compatible with iPhone 5, iPod touch (5th generation), and iPod nano (7th generation) for direct audio playback and charging.
• Audiophile Quality DACs: Features 24-bit Digital-to-Analog Converters to preserve audio detail and deliver high-quality sound.
• Room-Filling Sound: Engineered to provide powerful, clear, and immersive audio performance.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking and Placement

Carefully remove the Zeppelin Air from its packaging. Place the unit on a stable, flat surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the speaker.

Figure 1: Front view of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air Speaker Dock.

2.2 Power Connection

Connect the power cable to the Zeppelin Air and then to a suitable power outlet. The unit will power on automatically or can be turned on using the power button.

2.3 Docking an iOS Device

To play audio directly and charge your compatible iOS device, carefully align your iPhone 5, iPod touch (5th generation), or iPod nano (7th generation) with the Lightning connector on the dock and gently push down until it is securely seated.

Figure 2: An iPhone securely docked into the Zeppelin Air's Lightning connector.

2.4 AirPlay Wireless Setup

For wireless audio streaming via AirPlay, you will need to connect the Zeppelin Air to your Wi-Fi network. This can be done using the Bowers & Wilkins AirPlay Setup App on your iOS device or a computer with iTunes.

• Download the Bowers & Wilkins AirPlay Setup App from the App Store.
• Follow the on-screen instructions within the app to connect your Zeppelin Air to your home Wi-Fi network.
• Alternatively, connect the Zeppelin Air to your computer via an Ethernet cable and use iTunes to configure AirPlay settings.

Figure 3: Zeppelin Air in a home environment, ready for AirPlay setup or docked playback.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Playing Music via Dock

Once your iOS device is docked, simply select and play music from your device. The audio will automatically route through the Zeppelin Air. Use your iOS device's controls for playback, volume, and track selection.

Figure 4: An iPhone playing music through the Zeppelin Air in a living room.

3.2 Playing Music via AirPlay

After successful AirPlay setup, open your music application on your iOS device or iTunes on your computer. Look for the AirPlay icon (a rectangle with an upward-pointing arrow) and select "Zeppelin Air" from the list of available devices. Music will then stream wirelessly to the speaker dock.

Figure 5: Zeppelin Air positioned in a modern living room, suitable for wireless streaming.

3.3 Volume Control

Volume can be adjusted using the controls on your docked iOS device, the remote control provided with the Zeppelin Air, or through the volume controls on your AirPlay streaming device (e.g., iPhone, iPad, iTunes).

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

To clean the Zeppelin Air, use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or spray cleaners directly on the unit. For the fabric grille, a soft brush can be used to gently remove dust.

4.2 General Care

Keep the unit away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture. Do not block the ventilation openings. Avoid placing heavy objects on the Zeppelin Air.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Power

• Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the Zeppelin Air and the power outlet.
• Check if the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.

5.2 No Sound from Docked Device

• Verify that the iOS device is correctly seated on the Lightning connector.
• Check the volume levels on both the iOS device and the Zeppelin Air.
• Ensure music is playing on the iOS device.

5.3 AirPlay Connectivity Issues

• Network Interference: AirPlay can be sensitive to Wi-Fi network congestion or interference. Try moving the Zeppelin Air closer to your Wi-Fi router or reducing other network traffic.
• Router Compatibility: Some older or specific router models may have compatibility issues with AirPlay. Ensure your router firmware is up to date.
• Device Offline: If the Zeppelin Air enters a 'protected mode' (indicated by a flashing red LED), a complete power cycle (disconnecting and reconnecting power) may be required to restore functionality.
• Re-setup: If issues persist, try re-running the AirPlay setup process using the Bowers & Wilkins app.
• Interference with other devices: In rare cases, the Wi-Fi signal from the Zeppelin Air might interfere with other wireless devices on the same network. If you experience issues with other smart home devices, consider adjusting your Wi-Fi channel or network configuration.

5.4 Distorted Sound

• Reduce the volume on both the source device and the Zeppelin Air.
• Ensure the audio source file is not corrupted or of low quality.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Bowers & Wilkins website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Figure 6: Zeppelin Air in a bright room, showcasing its design and placement flexibility.