Introduction
The Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector is designed to connect up to four pairs of 4-ohm or 8-ohm speakers to a single amplifier or receiver, while maintaining a safe impedance load. This unit allows for independent control of each speaker zone, including individual on/off switching and volume adjustment.
Image: The Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector, showcasing its sleek black design and front panel controls.
Features
- Connects and safely controls multiple speaker pairs from a single amplifier.
- Automatic impedance protection circuitry ensures safe operation.
- Supports 100 watts/channel continuous power handling and 200 watts/channel peak.
- Maintains a 5-ohm minimum amplifier impedance with four 4-ohm speakers selected, and 6-ohm minimum with 8-ohm speakers.
- Individual zone on/off buttons for flexible control.
- Independent volume controls for each zone.
- Equipped with heavy-duty screw-type connectors compatible with 12-18 AWG speaker wire.
- Isolated left/right circuit grounds for safe connection with amplifiers featuring floating grounds or bridged configurations.
- Provides accurate, noise-free switching.
Important Safety Information
Please read this entire manual before using this device, paying extra attention to these safety warnings and guidelines. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.
- Do not expose this device to water or moisture of any kind.
- Do not place beverages or other containers with moisture on or near the device.
- If moisture does get on or in the device, immediately unplug it from its power source and allow it to fully dry before reapplying power.
- Do not touch the device, the power cord, or any connected cables with wet hands.
- Do not expose this device to excessively high or low temperatures.
- Do not place the device near heat sources, such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Do not place the device in direct sunlight or in areas where it may be exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Do not subject this device to extreme force, shock, or fluctuations in temperature or humidity.
- Do not use this device if it has been dropped or damaged in any way.
- Do not attempt to modify or disassemble this device.
- This device is intended for indoor use only.
- Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners, solvents, or detergents.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the unit. Do not block any ventilation openings.
Setup and Connections
Before making any connections, ensure your amplifier/receiver and all speakers are powered off.
Rear Panel Connections
Image: Rear panel of the SSVC-4.1, illustrating the screw-type connectors for amplifier input and four speaker zones.
- Amplifier Input: Connect the speaker outputs from your amplifier or receiver to the "FROM AMPLIFIER L R" terminals on the right side of the SSVC-4.1. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). The removable screw-type connectors make wiring easier.
- Speaker Outputs: Connect each pair of speakers to the corresponding "ZONE 1 SPEAKERS L R" through "ZONE 4 SPEAKERS L R" terminals. Match the left and right channels and maintain correct polarity for each zone.
- Wire Gauge: Use 12-18 AWG speaker wire for all connections.
- Placement: Place the speaker selector in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat sources or moisture.
Operation
Front Panel Controls
Image: Front panel of the SSVC-4.1, displaying the four volume control knobs and corresponding zone selection buttons.
- Power On: Once all connections are secure, power on your amplifier/receiver. The SSVC-4.1 does not require external power.
- Zone Selection: Each zone (1-4) has a dedicated push-button switch. Press the button to turn the corresponding speaker zone ON or OFF.
- Volume Control: Each zone also features an independent rotary volume control knob. Turn the knob clockwise to increase volume and counter-clockwise to decrease volume for that specific zone.
- Impedance Protection: The built-in impedance protection circuitry automatically adjusts the load presented to your amplifier, ensuring safe operation even when multiple speaker pairs are active.
Maintenance
The Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector requires minimal maintenance.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Do not use liquid cleaners, aerosols, or abrasive materials.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings on the sides of the unit are not obstructed to prevent overheating.
- Connections: Periodically check all speaker wire connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from one or more zones. | Zone not selected (button off). Loose speaker wire connection. Volume knob turned down. Faulty speaker. |
Press the zone button to turn it on. Check and re-secure all speaker wire connections for that zone. Turn the volume knob clockwise. Test the speaker directly with another source if possible. |
| Distorted sound. | Volume too high (amplifier or selector). Incorrect impedance matching. Loose connections. |
Reduce volume on both amplifier and selector. Ensure speaker impedance is within the recommended range (4-8 ohms). Check all speaker wire connections. |
| Unit feels warm. | Normal operation under load. Insufficient ventilation. |
A slight warmth is normal. Ensure the unit has adequate airflow around it. Do not block ventilation openings. |
| Buttons sticking or not engaging properly. | Minor manufacturing alignment issue (rare). | If persistent, contact customer support for assistance. |
Specifications
- Model: 138159
- Product Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 3.4 inches (34.3 x 22.9 x 8.6 cm)
- Item Weight: 6.94 pounds (3.15 kg)
- Color: Black
- Connector Type: Screw-type connectors
- Number of Ports: 4 (speaker zones)
- Continuous Power Handling: 100 watts/channel
- Peak Power Handling: 200 watts/channel
- Minimum Amplifier Impedance (4x 4-ohm speakers): 5 ohms
- Minimum Amplifier Impedance (4x 8-ohm speakers): 6 ohms
- Supported Speaker Impedance: 4-8 ohms
- Supported Wire Gauge: 12-18 AWG
- Manufacturer: Monoprice
- Country of Origin: China
Warranty and Support
Monoprice stands behind its products. For warranty information, technical support, or to download the full user manual, please visit the official Monoprice website or refer to the documentation included with your purchase.
You can also find the official user manual PDF here.