1. Introduction
The NEOHIPO ET30 is a versatile 2-in-2-out amplifier and speaker selector switch box designed for audiophiles. It allows users to easily switch between two amplifiers and two pairs of speakers, facilitating A/B comparison testing without repeatedly connecting and disconnecting cables. Featuring a vintage design with dual VU meters, the ET30 enhances your audio setup both functionally and aesthetically. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your ET30 unit.
2. Product Overview
The NEOHIPO ET30 unit features a robust metal shell and a retro design. The front panel includes two large VU meters with adjustable backlighting, control knobs for meter sensitivity and swing range, and selection buttons for amplifiers and speakers. The rear panel provides all necessary input and output terminals for audio connections, along with a power input and a sound receiver for the remote control.
Figure 2.1: NEOHIPO ET30 unit with its remote control. The main unit features dual VU meters and control knobs on the front panel, while the remote provides convenient wireless operation.
Figure 2.2: Detailed overview of the ET30's front and rear panels. The front panel includes the power switch, amplifier/speaker selection buttons, VU meter adjustment knobs (Swing Range, Sensitivity), and light color/brightness controls. The rear panel shows speaker outputs (Speaker 1, Speaker 2), amplifier inputs (Amplifier A, Amplifier B), a sound receiver, a microphone input, and a DC 5V (USB Type-C) power input.
3. Features
- Vintage Aesthetic: Full metal shell and retro design with warm VU meters and yellow backlighting for a classic look.
- Dual VU Meters: Two 85x45mm meters with adjustable 5 levels of brightness and 34 color options, providing dynamic visual feedback.
- Audio Switching: Seamlessly switch between two amplifiers and two pairs of speakers. Note: Only one speaker pair (A or B) can be active at a time; parallel mode (A+B) is not supported.
- Protection Load: Features a built-in dummy load for unselected speaker channels to prevent damage to Class A amplifiers.
- Strong Compatibility: Fully isolated channels with independent GND to prevent mutual interference. Compatible with Class A, B, AB, D, and tube amplifiers.
- Control Options: Operates via front panel buttons or the included remote control.
- Microphone Mode: Supports sound reception via an integrated microphone for VU meter display without direct audio input.
4. Setup
4.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Inspect the unit and accessories for any signs of damage. Ensure all items listed in the 'What's in the Box' section are present.
4.2 Power Connection
- Connect the provided USB Type-C cable to the DC 5V input port on the rear panel of the ET30.
- Plug the other end of the USB cable into a compatible 5V USB power adapter (not included).
4.3 Audio Connections
Refer to Figure 2.2 for connection points. Use high-quality speaker cables for all connections.
- Connecting Amplifiers: Connect the speaker outputs of your first amplifier (Amplifier A) to the 'Amplifier A' input terminals on the rear panel of the ET30. Connect your second amplifier (Amplifier B) to the 'Amplifier B' input terminals. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
- Connecting Speakers: Connect your first pair of speakers (Speaker 1) to the 'Speaker 1' output terminals on the rear panel of the ET30. Connect your second pair of speakers (Speaker 2) to the 'Speaker 2' output terminals. Ensure correct polarity.
The ET30 supports 2-in-2-out configuration, meaning you can select one amplifier to drive one pair of speakers at a time. It does not support simultaneous output to both speaker pairs (A+B).
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Operation
- Power On/Off: Press the power switch on the front panel or the 'Power' button on the remote control to turn the unit on or off.
- Amplifier Selection: Use the 'AMP' button on the front panel or the 'A/B' button on the remote to toggle between Amplifier A and Amplifier B.
- Speaker Selection: Use the 'SPK' button on the front panel or the '1/2' button on the remote to toggle between Speaker 1 and Speaker 2.
- Microphone (MIC) Mode: The unit can display VU meter activity based on ambient sound picked up by its internal microphone. When the MIC light is on, the unit is in MIC mode. When the light is off, it operates in wired connection mode.
5.2 VU Meter Settings
The ET30 offers extensive customization for its VU meters.
Figure 5.1: Examples of various color options for the VU meter backlighting. The ET30 offers 34 different colors to match your preference.
Figure 5.2: Illustration of different brightness levels for the VU meter backlighting, ranging from low light to brightest. Five levels of brightness are available.
- Swing Range Adjustment: Use the 'SWING RANGE' knob on the front panel to adjust the sensitivity of the VU meter needles, controlling how far they move in response to audio signals.
- Sensitivity Adjustment: Use the 'SENSITIVITY' knob on the front panel to adjust the speed at which the VU meter needles return to zero.
- Light Color/Brightness: Use the 'COLOR/LIGHT' button on the front panel to cycle through 34 different colors and 5 brightness levels for the VU meter backlight.
5.3 Remote Control Functions
The remote control provides convenient access to all key functions.
Figure 5.3: Diagram of the remote control with labeled buttons and their functions.
- Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.
- MIC Button: Toggles sound reception mode (microphone or wired).
- Light Color Button: Cycles through different backlight colors.
- Brightness Up/Down Buttons: Adjusts the brightness of the VU meter backlight.
- A/B Button: Selects between Amplifier A and Amplifier B.
- 1/2 Button: Selects between Speaker 1 and Speaker 2.
- M/D Button: Toggles pointer jump mode (M mode: VU meter flashes once; D mode: VU meter flashes twice).
- YE/GN Buttons: Fixed light color presets (Yellow/Green).
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
- Placement: Place the unit on a stable, flat surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not under strain. Avoid bending cables sharply.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output. | Incorrect amplifier/speaker selection; loose cable connections; amplifier/speakers not powered on. | Verify the correct amplifier and speaker pair are selected. Check all audio cable connections for tightness and correct polarity. Ensure connected amplifiers and speakers are powered on. |
| VU meters are not moving. | Unit in MIC mode with no ambient sound; low audio input signal; incorrect sensitivity setting. | Ensure the unit is in wired mode if using direct audio input. Increase the audio source volume. Adjust the 'SWING RANGE' and 'SENSITIVITY' knobs on the front panel. |
| Remote control not working. | Batteries depleted; obstruction between remote and unit; remote sensor blocked. | Replace remote control batteries. Ensure a clear line of sight between the remote and the unit's front panel sensor. |
| Only one speaker pair works at a time. | This is expected behavior. | The ET30 is designed to operate in stand-alone mode, meaning only Speaker A or Speaker B can be active at any given time. Simultaneous operation of both speaker pairs (A+B) is not supported. |
8. Specifications
- Brand: NEOHIPO
- Model Number: NEO-ET30
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 5 x 3 inches (281 x 124 x 80 mm)
- Item Weight: 2.99 pounds (1350g)
- Color Options: 34 kinds of color for VU meter backlight
- Connector Type: USB Type-C (for power)
- Compatible Devices: Amplifiers, Speakers
- Cable Type: USB (for power)
9. What's in the Box
The following items are included with your NEOHIPO ET30:
Figure 9.1: Contents of the product packaging, including the amplifier/speaker switch, remote control, user's manual, and USB Type-C cable.
- NEOHIPO ET30 Amplifier/Speaker Switch x 1
- Remote Control x 1 (Batteries not included)
- User's Manual x 1
- USB Type-C Cable x 1
10. Warranty and Support
NEOHIPO offers a 12-month warranty for the ET30 unit. For any product-related inquiries, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact NEOHIPO customer service. Responsive customer support is available to ensure enduring satisfaction with your HiFi home audio system.
