1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the ELAC Varro Dual Reference DS1200 Powered Subwoofer. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your new subwoofer. Please read these instructions thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
2. Safety Instructions
- Power Source: Connect the subwoofer only to an AC power outlet of the specified voltage (100-240V AC, 50/60Hz).
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the subwoofer. Do not block any ventilation openings. Maintain a minimum distance of 4 inches (10 cm) from walls or other objects.
- Placement: Place the subwoofer on a stable, level surface. Avoid placing it near heat sources, direct sunlight, or in areas with high humidity or dust.
- Water and Moisture: Do not expose the subwoofer to water or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on or near the unit.
- Cables: Protect power cords from being walked on or pinched. Do not pull the power cord to disconnect from the outlet.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Cleaning: Disconnect the power cord before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol sprays.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the packaging:
- ELAC Varro Dual Reference DS1200 Powered Subwoofer
- Power Cord
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
Front View
Figure 4.1: Front view of the ELAC Varro DS1200 subwoofer, showcasing the 12-inch HEX surround woofer and gloss black finish.
Figure 4.2: Front view of the ELAC Varro DS1200 subwoofer with the protective grille attached, maintaining its sleek appearance.
Rear Panel and Connections
Figure 4.3: Rear panel of the ELAC Varro DS1200 subwoofer, detailing the input/output options and controls.
The rear panel provides all necessary connections for integrating the subwoofer into your audio system. Key connections include:
- RCA Inputs: Standard unbalanced inputs for connecting to most AV receivers or pre-amplifiers.
- Balanced XLR Inputs: Professional-grade balanced inputs for longer cable runs and reduced noise interference.
- Speaker-Level Inputs: Allows connection directly from your amplifier's speaker outputs, useful for systems without dedicated subwoofer outputs.
- 12V Trigger: For automatic power on/off synchronization with other components.
- Ethernet Port: For third-party control systems and network connectivity.
- USB Port: For firmware updates.
- Power Inlet: For connecting the included power cord.
Side View
Figure 4.4: Side view of the ELAC Varro DS1200 subwoofer, highlighting its compact design with the grille in place.
5. Setup
5.1 Placement
Subwoofer placement significantly impacts bass performance. Experiment with different locations in your room to find the best balance of output and smoothness. Common placement options include:
- Corner Placement: Often provides the most output but can sometimes lead to boomy bass.
- Front Wall Placement: Near the main speakers, can improve integration with the front soundstage.
- Mid-Room Placement: Can offer smoother bass response but may require more power.
Consider using the 'subwoofer crawl' method: place the subwoofer in your primary listening position, play bass-heavy music, and crawl around the room to find where the bass sounds best. That location is often ideal for the subwoofer.
5.2 Connecting to Your System
Ensure all audio equipment is powered off before making connections.
RCA/XLR Connection (Recommended for AV Receivers)
- Connect an RCA or XLR cable from your AV receiver's 'Subwoofer Out' or 'LFE Out' to the corresponding RCA or XLR input on the DS1200 subwoofer.
- If using a stereo pre-amplifier with a dedicated subwoofer output, connect it similarly.
Speaker-Level Connection (For Amplifiers without Subwoofer Output)
- Connect speaker wires from your amplifier's left and right speaker outputs to the 'Speaker Level Input' terminals on the DS1200.
- Then, connect your main speakers to the 'Speaker Level Output' terminals on the DS1200. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
5.3 Power Connection
- Connect the included power cord to the power inlet on the rear of the subwoofer.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a suitable AC wall outlet.
6. Operating
6.1 Initial Power On
After making all connections, switch on the power to the subwoofer. The power indicator light will illuminate. If your receiver has an auto-setup feature (e.g., Audyssey, MCACC, YPAO), run it now to calibrate the subwoofer with your system.
6.2 Basic Adjustments
For initial listening, set the subwoofer's volume to a moderate level. Adjust the crossover frequency and phase settings as needed. For precise control and optimization, utilize the ELAC Varro App.
7. App Control and Auto EQ
The ELAC Varro DS1200 features advanced control and room correction capabilities via a dedicated smartphone application.
7.1 Downloading the App
Download the 'ELAC Varro' app from the Apple App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices).
7.2 Connecting to the Subwoofer
- Ensure your smartphone's Bluetooth is enabled.
- Open the ELAC Varro app. The app will search for available ELAC subwoofers.
- Select your DS1200 from the list to establish a connection.
7.3 App Features
The app provides comprehensive control over your subwoofer's settings, including:
- Volume Control: Precise adjustment of output level.
- Crossover Frequency: Set the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer.
- Phase Control: Adjust the phase to ensure seamless integration with your main speakers.
- Parametric EQ: Fine-tune specific frequency bands to address room acoustics.
- Auto EQ: Utilizes your smartphone's microphone to measure and automatically correct the subwoofer's response for your room, optimizing bass performance.
8. Maintenance
8.1 Cleaning
To clean the subwoofer, first disconnect it from the power outlet. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or chemical sprays, as these can damage the finish.
8.2 General Care
Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure. Avoid placing heavy objects on the subwoofer or exposing it to extreme temperatures.
9. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your ELAC Varro DS1200 subwoofer, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from subwoofer |
|
|
| Distorted or boomy bass |
|
|
| App cannot connect to subwoofer |
|
|
If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact ELAC customer support.
10. Specifications
The following are the technical specifications for the ELAC Varro Dual Reference DS1200 Powered Subwoofer:
- Model: Varro Dual Reference DS1200
- Speaker Type: Powered Subwoofer
- Woofer Diameter: Dual 12 Inches
- Amplifier Power: 1200 Watts RMS (2400 Watts Peak)
- Frequency Response: 17Hz-150Hz (Anechoic) / 14Hz-150Hz (In-Room)
- Connectivity Technology: Wired (RCA, XLR, Speaker Level, Ethernet, USB)
- Control Method: App Control
- Additional Features: App Control, Auto EQ, 12V Trigger
- Color: Gloss Black
- Item Dimensions (D x W x H): Approximately 25" x 22.25" x 25" (63.5 cm x 56.5 cm x 63.5 cm)
- Item Weight: 98 Pounds (44.45 kg)
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Input Voltage: 12 Volts (for trigger)
- UPC: 853720006698
Figure 10.1: Approximate dimensions of the ELAC Varro DS1200 subwoofer.
11. Warranty and Support
11.1 Limited Warranty
The ELAC Varro Dual Reference DS1200 Powered Subwoofer comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, accident, unauthorized modification, or improper installation.
11.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty inquiries, or service requests, please visit the official ELAC website or contact your authorized ELAC dealer. Please have your model number (DS1200) and serial number ready when contacting support.
