Introduction
The ION Tailgater Boom is a powerful and versatile portable Bluetooth speaker designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It features a robust 60-watt sound system, an integrated FM radio, a microphone input, and a long-lasting rechargeable battery. Its IPX5 water-resistant rating ensures durability in various environments, making it suitable for tailgates, backyard gatherings, or beach trips. This manual provides detailed instructions to help you get the most out of your Tailgater Boom speaker.
Front view of the ION Tailgater Boom portable speaker, showcasing its rugged design and control panel.
What's in the Box
Please ensure all items listed below are present in your package:
- Tailgater Boom Speaker
- USB-A to USB-C Cable (3.28 ft / 1 m)
- Quick Start Guide
Features
The ION Tailgater Boom is equipped with a range of features designed for superior audio performance and user convenience:
- 60W High-Power Sound System: Delivers robust audio through a 5.25-inch woofer and 2-inch tweeter.
- Seamless Bluetooth Streaming: Connect wirelessly up to 100 feet with Bluetooth 5.3.
- Long-lasting Battery: Features a rechargeable battery providing up to 15 hours of playback.
- IPX5 Water-Resistant: Designed to withstand splashes, making it suitable for outdoor use.
- Integrated FM Radio: Tune into your favorite stations with onboard presets.
- Microphone Input: Includes a 1/4-inch mic input for announcements or karaoke.
- USB Playback/Charging Port: Play music from a USB thumb drive or charge mobile devices.
- Boom Button: Instantly boosts bass, EQ, and volume for enhanced sound.
- Wireless Stereo-Link: Connect two Tailgater Boom speakers wirelessly for true stereo sound.
- ION Sound Control App: Manage volume, EQ, radio presets, and firmware updates from your mobile device.
Visual representation of the speaker's core features including 60 watts of power, EQ control, Bluetooth 5.3, wireless stereo-link, FM radio, and USB charge/playback port.
The speaker's portable design with an easy-grab handle, 15-hour battery life, 1/4-inch mic input, IPX5 water-resistant rating, Boom Button, and Repeat button.
Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the Tailgater Boom and all accessories from the packaging. Retain the packaging for future storage or transport.
- Initial Charge: Before first use, fully charge the speaker. Connect the included USB-A to USB-C cable to the USB-C charging port on the speaker and the USB-A end to a powered USB charger (not included). The battery indicator on the display will show charging status. A full charge takes approximately 4-5 hours.
- Power On: Press and hold the Power button on the control panel for 2 seconds to turn the speaker on. The display will illuminate.
Operating Instructions
Control Panel Overview
Detailed view of the speaker's top control panel with buttons and display.
The control panel provides access to all speaker functions:
- MIC/AUX Input: Connect a microphone or external audio device.
- Bluetooth Button: Press to enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Stereo-Link Button: Press to link two Tailgater Boom speakers.
- Power Button: Press and hold to turn on/off.
- Play/Pause Button: Control audio playback.
- Previous/Next Track Buttons: Navigate through tracks or radio stations.
- Boom Button: Activates bass boost.
- Repeat Button: Cycles through repeat modes for USB playback.
- Volume +/- Buttons: Adjust the master volume.
- Display: Shows current mode, battery level, and other information.
Bluetooth Pairing
- Ensure your Tailgater Boom is powered on.
- The speaker will automatically enter Bluetooth pairing mode when powered on for the first time, indicated by a flashing Bluetooth icon on the display. If not, press the Bluetooth button.
- On your Bluetooth-enabled device (smartphone, tablet, etc.), enable Bluetooth and search for "ION Tailgater Boom".
- Select "ION Tailgater Boom" from the list of available devices. Once paired, the Bluetooth icon will be solid, and you will hear an audible confirmation.
- You can now stream audio wirelessly from your device to the speaker.
FM Radio Operation
- Press the Mode button (if available, or cycle through inputs until FM is selected) to switch to FM Radio mode. The display will show the current radio frequency.
- Use the Previous/Next Track buttons to manually tune to a station.
- To auto-scan and save stations, press and hold the Play/Pause button. The speaker will scan for strong signals and save them as presets.
- Use the Previous/Next Track buttons to cycle through saved presets.
USB Playback
- Insert a USB thumb drive containing MP3 audio files into the USB-A port.
- The speaker will automatically switch to USB mode and begin playing the first compatible audio file.
- Use the Play/Pause and Previous/Next Track buttons to control playback.
- Press the Repeat button to cycle through repeat modes (e.g., repeat one, repeat all, shuffle).
Microphone Input
- Connect a 1/4-inch microphone (not included) to the MIC input on the control panel.
- Adjust the microphone volume using the dedicated MIC volume knob or the main volume controls.
Boom Button
Press the Boom Button to instantly enhance the bass, adjust the EQ, and increase the overall volume for a more impactful sound experience. Press it again to deactivate.
The Boom button, located on the control panel, provides an instant boost to bass and overall sound.
Wireless Stereo-Link
To link two Tailgater Boom speakers for stereo sound:
- Ensure both Tailgater Boom speakers are powered on and not connected to any Bluetooth device.
- On one speaker, press the Stereo-Link button. It will search for another speaker.
- On the second speaker, press the Stereo-Link button. The speakers will automatically connect to each other.
- Once linked, connect your Bluetooth device to one of the speakers (the primary speaker). Audio will now play in stereo across both units.
Two Tailgater Boom speakers connected wirelessly for an enhanced stereo audio experience.
ION Sound Control App
Enhance your experience with the ION Sound Control app, available for iOS and Android devices. The app allows you to:
- Control volume and EQ settings.
- Set and manage FM radio presets.
- Access the latest firmware updates for your speaker.
Download the app from your device's app store by searching for "ION Sound Control".
The ION Sound Control app interface, showing options for dashboard, equalizer, and radio presets.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the speaker. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or abrasive detergents.
- Water Resistance: The Tailgater Boom has an IPX5 water-resistant rating, meaning it can withstand splashing water. Do not submerge the speaker in water or expose it to pressurized water jets. Ensure all port covers are securely closed when near water.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the speaker in a cool, dry place. It is recommended to fully charge the battery every 3 months to maintain battery health.
The IPX5 water-resistant design allows for safe use by the pool or at the beach, protecting against splashes.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Tailgater Boom, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No power | Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the speaker to a power source using the USB-C cable. Press and hold the Power button for 2 seconds. |
| No sound | Check the volume level on both the speaker and your connected device. Ensure the correct input source (Bluetooth, USB, AUX) is selected. If using Bluetooth, ensure the device is properly paired. |
| Bluetooth not connecting | Ensure the speaker is in pairing mode (flashing Bluetooth icon). Turn off Bluetooth on your device and turn it back on. Forget the speaker from your device's Bluetooth settings and try pairing again. Move closer to the speaker. |
| FM radio static | Adjust the speaker's position to improve reception. Try auto-scanning for stations again. |
| Microphone not working | Ensure the microphone is securely plugged into the MIC input. Check the microphone's volume level. Test with another microphone if possible. |
| Stereo-Link not working | Ensure both speakers are not connected to any Bluetooth device before attempting to link them. Make sure both speakers are Tailgater Boom models. Try resetting both speakers by turning them off and on again. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Tailgater Boom |
| Speaker Type | Outdoor Portable Bluetooth Speaker |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 60 Watts |
| Woofer Diameter | 5.25 Inches |
| Tweeter Diameter | 2 Inches |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 100 ft (30.48 meters) |
| Battery Life | Up to 15 Hours |
| Water Resistance Rating | IPX5 |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 7.13" x 11.93" x 11.61" |
| Item Weight | 7.14 Pounds |
| Included Components | Tailgater Boom, USB-A to USB-C Cable, Quick Start Guide |
Visual representation of the speaker's dimensions: 11.93 inches wide, 7.13 inches deep, and 11.61 inches high.
Warranty and Support
The ION Tailgater Boom comes with a Limited Warranty. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the Quick Start Guide included in your package or visit the official ION Audio website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or to register your product, please visit www.ionaudio.com/support.