ION Highlander 120W Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker User Manual

1. Introduction

The ION Highlander is a powerful and versatile 120W Bluetooth outdoor speaker designed for robust sound in various environments. Featuring a long-lasting rechargeable battery, water-resistant construction, and convenient portability with wheels and a telescoping handle, it's ideal for outdoor gatherings, events, and personal use. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Highlander speaker.

Figure 1.1: ION Highlander speaker with its included microphone, showcasing its portable design.

Figure 1.2: The ION Highlander speaker positioned outdoors, highlighting its suitability for various environments.

2. Package Contents

• ION Highlander Speaker
• Microphone with Cable
• Power Cable
• Quickstart Guide (not included in this manual)
• Safety & Warranty Manual (not included in this manual)

3. Product Features

• Dynamic, Powerful Sound: Equipped with an 8-inch woofer and a wide dispersion tweeter, delivering clear and lifelike audio. A 120-watt peak power amplifier ensures high volume output.
• Bass Boost: Instantly enhances low-end frequencies for a richer bass experience.
• Extended Battery Life: Features a rechargeable battery providing up to 50 hours of continuous use.
• IPX5 Water-Resistant: Designed to withstand splashes and light rain, making it suitable for outdoor use.
• Ultra-Portable Design: Built with a rugged plastic enclosure, telescoping handle, wheels, and two convenient carrying handles for easy transport.
• Versatile Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth streaming from any enabled device, includes a 1/8-inch (3.5mm) aux input for non-Bluetooth devices, and an onboard AM/FM radio.
• Microphone Input: Includes a microphone for public speaking, karaoke, or other audio applications.
• USB Charging Ports: Two USB ports are provided for charging smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices.

Figure 3.1: Visual representation of the Highlander's dynamic sound capabilities, including 120 watts, 8-inch woofer, 3-inch tweeter, 50-hour battery, and Bass Boost feature.

Figure 3.2: The Highlander's portability features, including its 50-hour battery, rugged enclosure, built-in handles, wheels, and IPX5 water-resistant rating.

Figure 3.3: The Highlander speaker positioned near a pool, illustrating its IPX5 water-resistant capability, safe for use in wet environments.

4. Controls and Connections

Familiarize yourself with the control panel and connection ports of your Highlander speaker.

Figure 4.1: Top view of the Highlander's control panel, showing all knobs, buttons, and display.

Control Panel Overview:

• Microphone Input (1/4-inch): Connect the included microphone or another dynamic microphone.
• Aux Input (1/8-inch / 3.5mm): Connect external audio devices.
• USB Charging Ports (2x): For charging external devices (5V, 1A).
• Microphone Volume Knob: Adjusts the volume level of the microphone input.
• Main Volume Knob: Controls the overall output volume of the speaker.
• Power Button: Turns the speaker on or off.
• Bluetooth Button: Initiates Bluetooth pairing mode.
• Radio Buttons (FM/AM): Selects FM or AM radio band.
• Presets Buttons (1-4): Stores and recalls radio stations.
• Link Button: For linking multiple compatible ION speakers.
• Track Controls (Previous/Play-Pause/Next): Controls playback for Bluetooth connected devices.
• Display: Shows current mode, radio frequency, battery status, and other indicators.
• Bass Boost Button: Toggles bass enhancement on/off.

Figure 4.2: Front view of the Highlander speaker, showing the main grille and control panel layout.

Figure 4.3: Back view of the Highlander speaker, illustrating the integrated wheels for easy transport.

Figure 4.4: Back view of the Highlander speaker with its telescoping handle fully extended, ready for rolling.

5. Setup

5.1 Charging the Battery

Before first use, fully charge the Highlander's battery. Connect the included power cable to the power input on the back of the speaker and plug the other end into a standard power outlet. The charging indicator on the display will show charging status. A full charge typically takes several hours.

5.2 Powering On/Off

Press and hold the Power button on the control panel to turn the Highlander on or off. The display will illuminate when the unit is powered on.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Bluetooth Pairing

1. Ensure your Highlander is powered on.
2. Press the Bluetooth button. The Bluetooth icon on the display will flash, indicating it's in pairing mode.
3. On your Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., smartphone, tablet), navigate to the Bluetooth settings and select "ION Highlander" from the list of available devices.
4. Once connected, the Bluetooth icon on the Highlander's display will stop flashing and remain solid. You can now stream audio from your device.
5. To disconnect, turn off Bluetooth on your device or press the Bluetooth button on the Highlander.

NFC Pairing (Near Field Communication): If your device supports NFC, enable NFC on your device and gently tap it against the NFC logo on the Highlander's control panel. Your device will automatically attempt to pair.

Figure 6.1: The Highlander's connectivity options, including Easy Pair NFC Bluetooth, Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility, and an Aux In port.

6.2 Using the Aux Input

Connect any audio device with a 3.5mm audio output (e.g., MP3 player, laptop) to the Aux Input port on the Highlander using a standard 3.5mm audio cable. The speaker will automatically switch to Aux mode, or you may need to select it via the mode buttons if available.

6.3 AM/FM Radio Operation

1. Press the FM or AM button to select the desired radio band.
2. Use the Previous and Next track buttons to tune to radio stations. Press and hold to auto-seek the next available station.
3. To save a preset, tune to the desired station, then press and hold one of the Preset buttons (1-4) until the display confirms it's saved.
4. To recall a preset, simply press the corresponding Preset button (1-4).

6.4 Microphone Usage

Connect the included microphone to the Microphone Input (1/4-inch) on the control panel. Adjust the microphone's volume using the Microphone Volume Knob. Ensure the Main Volume is also adjusted to a suitable level.

Figure 6.2: The Highlander's features for entertainment, including two USB charge ports, an included microphone cable, and AM/FM radio with 10 presets.

6.5 USB Charging

The Highlander features two USB ports (5V, 1A) for charging your mobile devices. Simply connect your device's USB charging cable to one of the ports. Charging will begin automatically.

6.6 Bass Boost

Press the Bass Boost button to activate or deactivate the bass enhancement feature. This will instantly increase the low-frequency output for a more impactful sound.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

Wipe the exterior of the Highlander with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the finish. Ensure all ports are dry before use, especially after exposure to water.

7.2 Storage

When not in use for extended periods, store the Highlander in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is recommended to fully charge the battery every 3 months to maintain its lifespan.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Power:
  • Ensure the power cable is securely connected to the speaker and a live power outlet.
  • Check if the battery needs charging.
  • Press and hold the Power button for a few seconds.
• No Sound:
  • Increase the Main Volume knob on the Highlander and the volume on your connected audio device.
  • Ensure the correct input source (Bluetooth, Aux, Radio) is selected.
  • If using Bluetooth, ensure the device is properly paired and connected.
  • If using the microphone, ensure its volume knob is turned up.
• Bluetooth Connection Issues:
  • Make sure the Highlander is in Bluetooth pairing mode (flashing Bluetooth icon).
  • Move your Bluetooth device closer to the speaker.
  • Try turning off Bluetooth on your device and the Highlander, then turn them back on and attempt to pair again.
  • Clear the "ION Highlander" entry from your device's Bluetooth list and re-pair.
• Radio Static:
  • Adjust the position of the speaker to improve reception.
  • Try tuning to a stronger station.

9. Specifications

10. Safety Information

• Do not expose the unit to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or high humidity.
• Ensure all connections are secure before operating the unit.
• Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Keep the unit away from open flames or heat sources.
• Only use the power adapter supplied with the unit.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on the unit.
• Do not block ventilation openings.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the separate Safety & Warranty Manual included with your product or visit the official ION Audio website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.