1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient use of your DALI IO-8 Wireless/Wired Hi-Fi Headphones. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product and retain it for future reference. The DALI IO-8 headphones are designed to deliver a high-fidelity audio experience with advanced features such as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Bluetooth AptX Adaptive connectivity, and a long-lasting battery.
2. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your DALI IO-8 headphones.
Figure 2.1: Front view of the DALI IO-8 headphones, showcasing the caramel and white color scheme and overall design.
Figure 2.2: Top-down view of the DALI IO-8 headphones, highlighting the earcups and visible control buttons on the side.
Figure 2.3: Interior view of a DALI IO-8 earcup, showing the soft padding and driver grille, designed for comfort and sound delivery.
Figure 2.4: Close-up view of the DALI IO-8 earcup, showing the USB-C charging port and other control buttons.
2.1 Package Contents
- DALI IO-8 Headphones
- USB-C Charging Cable
- 3.5mm Audio Cable
- Travel Case (if included)
- User Manual (this document)
2.2 Headphone Components
Figure 2.5: Exploded view illustrating the internal components of the DALI IO-8 headphones, including the 50mm driver, circuitry, and earcup structure.
- Headband (Adjustable)
- Earcups (Over-ear design with genuine leather)
- 50mm Driver (SMC Driver Technology)
- Control Buttons (Power, Volume, ANC, Multifunction)
- USB-C Port (Charging and Wired Audio)
- 3.5mm Audio Jack (Wired Audio)
- Microphones (for ANC and calls)
3. Setup
3.1 Charging the Headphones
Before initial use, fully charge your DALI IO-8 headphones.
- Connect the supplied USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the headphone earcup.
- Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to a compatible USB power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter).
- The LED indicator will show charging status. A full charge provides up to 35 hours of playback with ANC enabled.
- Once fully charged, disconnect the cable.
3.2 Power On/Off
- To Power On: Press and hold the Power button for approximately 2 seconds until the LED indicator illuminates.
- To Power Off: Press and hold the Power button for approximately 3 seconds until the LED indicator turns off.
3.3 Bluetooth Pairing
The DALI IO-8 supports Bluetooth AptX Adaptive for high-quality wireless audio.
- Ensure the headphones are powered off.
- Press and hold the Power button for approximately 5 seconds until the LED indicator flashes blue rapidly. This indicates pairing mode.
- On your audio device (smartphone, tablet, computer), enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
- Select "DALI IO-8" from the list of found devices.
- Once paired, the LED indicator will glow solid blue or flash slowly.
- The headphones will automatically attempt to reconnect to the last paired device when powered on.
3.4 Wired Connection
The DALI IO-8 can be used with a wired connection via the 3.5mm audio jack or USB-C.
- 3.5mm Audio Cable: Connect one end of the supplied 3.5mm audio cable to the headphone's 3.5mm jack and the other end to your audio source's headphone output. The headphones can be used passively in this mode, or actively with ANC and amplification if powered on.
- USB-C Audio: Connect the supplied USB-C cable to the headphone's USB-C port and the other end to a compatible USB audio output on your computer or device. This mode allows for digital audio transmission and charging simultaneously.
4. Operating the Headphones
4.1 Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The DALI IO-8 features three distinct ANC modes and wind noise suppression.
- Press the dedicated ANC button to cycle through the available modes:
- ANC On: Maximum noise cancellation.
- Transparency Mode: Allows ambient sounds to pass through for situational awareness.
- ANC Off: Active noise cancellation is disabled.
- Wind noise suppression is automatically engaged in ANC modes to reduce interference from wind.
4.2 Sound Modes
Customize your listening experience with two sound profiles.
- Press the Sound Mode button (if available, or refer to specific button on device) to switch between:
- Hi-Fi Mode: Delivers a balanced and neutral sound signature.
- Bass Mode: Enhances low-frequency response for a more impactful bass.
4.3 Playback and Volume Control
Use the control buttons on the earcup for media playback and volume adjustments.
- Volume Up: Press the '+' button.
- Volume Down: Press the '-' button.
- Play/Pause: Press the Multifunction button once.
- Next Track: Double-press the Multifunction button.
- Previous Track: Triple-press the Multifunction button.
4.4 Call Management
Manage phone calls when connected via Bluetooth.
- Answer/End Call: Press the Multifunction button once.
- Reject Call: Press and hold the Multifunction button for 2 seconds.
- Activate Voice Assistant: Press and hold the Multifunction button for 2 seconds (when not on a call).
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning
- Wipe the headphones with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or chemical sprays.
- For earcups, gently wipe with a slightly damp cloth if necessary, then dry immediately.
- Ensure no moisture enters the ports or openings.
5.2 Storage
- When not in use, store the headphones in their protective travel case to prevent damage.
- Avoid exposing the headphones to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Battery is depleted. | Charge the headphones using the supplied USB-C cable. |
| Cannot pair via Bluetooth | Headphones not in pairing mode; device Bluetooth off; too far from device. | Ensure headphones are in pairing mode (rapid blue LED flash). Turn on Bluetooth on your device. Move headphones closer to the device. Forget "DALI IO-8" on your device and re-pair. |
| No sound | Volume too low; incorrect input source; headphones not connected. | Increase volume on headphones and source device. Check Bluetooth connection or wired cable. Ensure the correct audio output is selected on your device. |
| ANC not working effectively | ANC mode off; poor earcup seal. | Ensure ANC is enabled. Adjust headphones for a proper seal around your ears. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | DALI IO-8 |
| Brand | DALI |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired, Wireless (Bluetooth) |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth (AptX Adaptive) |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Suppression (ANC) with Wind Noise Suppression |
| Ear Placement | Over-ear |
| Driver Size | 50mm (SMC Driver Technology) |
| Impedance | 25 ohms |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5 mm |
| Battery Life | Up to 35 hours (with ANC) |
| Materials | Genuine Leather (earcups) |
8. Safety Information
Please observe the following safety guidelines to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to your headphones or injury to yourself.
- Do not expose the headphones to water, rain, or moisture.
- Avoid extreme temperatures.
- Do not disassemble, repair, or modify the headphones. This voids the warranty.
- Listen at moderate volume levels to prevent hearing damage.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Dispose of the product responsibly according to local regulations.
9. Warranty and Support
DALI products are manufactured to high standards and are covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official DALI website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized DALI dealer or DALI customer support.
Figure 9.1: A person wearing the DALI IO-8 headphones, demonstrating their comfortable fit and use in a real-world environment.
