Introduction
The M-AUDIO AV42 Compact Active Desktop Reference Monitor Speakers are designed to provide clear and accurate audio reproduction for various applications, including multimedia playback, gaming, and professional media creation. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your AV42 speakers.
Figure 1: Front view of the M-AUDIO AV42 Active Speaker, featuring the 4-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter, volume control, and front-panel inputs.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Contents
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure the following items are present:
- M-AUDIO AV42 Active Speaker (1)
- M-AUDIO AV42 Passive Speaker (1)
- 1/8-inch (3.5mm) Stereo Audio Cable (1)
- 1/8-inch (3.5mm) to Stereo RCA Cable (1)
- Premium Speaker Wire (for connecting active to passive speaker) (1)
- Acoustic Traction Pads (4)
- Power Cable (1)
2. Speaker Placement
For optimal sound quality, place the speakers on a stable, flat surface, such as a desktop or speaker stands. Position them to form an equilateral triangle with your listening position, with the tweeters at approximately ear level. Use the included acoustic traction pads to minimize vibrations and improve sound clarity.
3. Connections
Follow these steps to connect your AV42 speakers:
- Connect Active to Passive Speaker: Use the included premium speaker wire to connect the active speaker (which has the power and input connections) to the passive speaker. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) for optimal sound.
- Connect Audio Source:
- RCA Inputs: Use the 1/8-inch to stereo RCA cable to connect your computer, audio interface, or other audio device to the RCA inputs on the rear of the active speaker.
- Auxiliary Input: For mobile devices, use the 1/8-inch stereo audio cable to connect to the front-panel AUX input.
- Connect Power: Plug the power cable into the active speaker's power input, then into a standard AC power outlet.
Figure 2: Rear panel of the M-AUDIO AV42 Active Speaker, illustrating input and output connections.
Operating Instructions
1. Power On/Off
Locate the power switch on the rear panel of the active speaker. Flip the switch to the 'ON' position to power on the speakers. The blue LED on the front of the active speaker will illuminate. Flip the switch to 'OFF' to power down.
2. Volume Control
Adjust the master volume using the 'VOL' knob on the front panel of the active speaker. Start with a low volume and gradually increase it to a comfortable listening level. It is recommended to set your audio source (computer, mobile device) volume to a moderate level and use the speaker's volume knob for primary control.
3. Headphone Output
For private listening, plug your headphones into the 1/8-inch (3.5mm) headphone jack on the front panel of the active speaker. Connecting headphones will automatically mute the main speakers. The volume knob will then control the headphone output level.
4. Auxiliary Input
The front-panel 1/8-inch (3.5mm) AUX input allows for quick connection of portable audio devices like smartphones or MP3 players. When a device is connected to the AUX input, it will override the rear RCA inputs. Disconnect the AUX device to revert to the RCA inputs.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your AV42 speakers:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the speaker cabinets. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish.
- Dust Protection: Keep the speakers free from dust accumulation, especially around the drivers and ports, to maintain optimal sound quality.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the speakers to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Driver Protection: The AV42 speakers feature durable drivers designed to withstand minor accidental pokes, which will pop back out without damage. However, avoid intentional force or sharp objects.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your M-AUDIO AV42 speakers, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- No Sound:
- Ensure the power switch is ON and the blue LED is illuminated.
- Check all audio cable connections (RCA, AUX, speaker wire) are secure and correctly inserted.
- Verify the volume knob on the active speaker is turned up.
- Confirm your audio source (computer, mobile device) is playing and its volume is not muted or too low.
- If headphones are plugged in, unplug them to enable main speaker output.
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the volume on both the speakers and your audio source. Excessive volume can cause distortion.
- Check if the audio source is producing a clean signal. Try a different audio source or cable.
- Ensure speaker wire connections are secure and not frayed.
- One Speaker Not Working:
- Verify the speaker wire connecting the active and passive speakers is securely connected at both ends and not damaged.
- Check the balance settings on your audio source.
- Static or Hum:
- Ensure all cables are properly shielded and away from power cables or other electronic devices that might cause interference.
- Try plugging the speakers into a different power outlet.
- Disconnect all audio inputs and check if the hum persists. If not, the issue may be with the audio source or cable.
Specifications
The following are the technical specifications for the M-AUDIO AV42 Desktop Reference Monitor Speakers:
- Speaker Type: Active Desktop Reference Monitors
- Woofer: 4-inch polypropylene-coated
- Tweeter: 1-inch ferrofluid-cooled silk cone with OptImage IV wave guides
- Amplifier Power: 20 Watts per channel (40 Watts total peak)
- Audio Output Mode: Stereo (2.0 channels)
- Connectivity: Auxiliary (1/8-inch), RCA
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 90 dB
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Mounting Type: Tabletop Mount
- Enclosure Material: Plastic
- Item Weight: 7.5 Pounds (approximate)
- Compatible Devices: Smartphone, Tablet, MP3 Player, Desktop, Laptop
Product Overview Video
This official M-Audio video provides an overview of the AV Series desktop monitor speakers, including the AV42 model, highlighting key features, design, and connectivity options.
Warranty
The M-AUDIO AV42 speakers come with a 1-year warranty covering parts and labor from the date of original purchase. This warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Support
For further assistance, technical support, or detailed product information, please visit the official M-AUDIO website. You can find FAQs, driver downloads, and contact information for customer service.
