Russound CA6.4 Instruction Manual

1. Safety Instructions

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Safety Instructions

1. Read Instructions - All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated.
2. Retain Instructions - The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions - All operating and user instructions should be followed.
5. Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used near water - for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.
6. Carts and Stands - The appliance should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer. An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.
7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting - The appliance should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.
8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings. Place the CA6.4 in a well-ventilated location, leaving at least 2 inches (5cm) of clearance on all sides, top and rear of unit for air flow. If ventilation is blocked, the CA6.4 may overheat and malfunction.
9. Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
10. Power Sources - The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
11. Grounding or Polarization - The precautions that should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.
12. Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
13. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.
14. Non-use Periods - The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
15. Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through the openings.
16. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
    • A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
    • B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the appliance; or
    • C. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or
    • D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally; or
    • E. The appliance has been dropped or the enclosure is damaged.
17. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

Precautions

1. Power - WARNING - BEFORE TURNING ON THE POWER FOR THE FIRST TIME, READ THE FOLLOWING SECTION CAREFULLY. All CA6.4 models are designed for use with either 110 VAC 50-60 Hz. or 240 VAC 50-60 Hz. A voltage selection switch is located on the rear of the CA6.4 above the power receptacle. The voltage selection switch will come set to the 110 VAC position. If you are in an area which has a 220 VAC or 240 VAC supply, move the voltage selection switch to the 240 VAC position.
2. Do Not Touch The CA6.4 With Wet Hands. Do not handle the CA6.4 or power cord when your hands are wet or damp. If water or any other liquid enters the CA6.4 cabinet, take the CA6.4 to qualified service personnel for inspection.
3. Location of the CA6.4 - Do not expose the CA6.4 to direct sun light or heating units as the CA6.4 internal components temperature may rise and shorten the life of the components. Avoid damp and dusty places.
4. Care - From time to time you should wipe off the front and side panels and the cabinet with a soft cloth. Do not use rough material, thinners, alcohol or other chemical solvents or cloths since this may damage the finish or remove the panel lettering.

2. Introduction

Congratulations on your recent purchase of the Russound CA6.4 multi-room controller. This six-zone, four-source, multi-room controller is the heart of an affordable whole-house audio distribution system. Six high-current, stereo, power amplifiers are built into the Russound CA6.4 allowing simple connections to each speaker in the system. Each zone is operated by an intuitive, easy-to-use keypad that controls all the functions of the CA6.4. The keypads also have a built-in infrared receiver that allows remote control for your source equipment to be routed through the CA6.4.

The Russound CA6.4 is built with pride. Fidelity, Reliability and Quality is the primary objective. Russound products are guaranteed to provide years of enjoyment. The CA6.4 is UL listed and CSA approved for your protection and peace of mind. Please take a moment to fill out the warranty card and return it to Russound.

3. Possible System Configurations

A diagram shows a typical system configuration with source equipment (TUNER, CD, CASSETTE, DSS) connected to the CA6.4 controller, which then connects to speakers in various rooms (Family Room, Master Bedroom, Childs Room, Guest Room, Living Room, Kitchen, Patio).

4. Unpacking and Warranty Card

• Carefully unpack the CA6.4 and keep the original carton and packing materials for future moving, shipment or long-term storage. After opening the box, please check for any visible signs of damage that were not apparent from the outside of the box. If you do encounter what appears to be concealed damage, please consult your Russound dealer before proceeding to further unpack or install the unit.
• Make sure to save your sales receipt. Your receipt is extremely important to establish the duration of your limited Warranty, and for insurance purposes.
• Warranty Card – The serial number appears on the rear panel of this unit near the power cord. Copy the serial number onto your warranty card and mail it back to Russound / FMP, Inc. 5 Forbes Road, Newmarket, New Hampshire, 03857, USA. Be sure to retain a copy and keep it in a safe place.

5. Getting Started

The following information will indicate some tools and materials necessary for a complete installation of the CA6.4:

• 4 twisted pair communication wire (commonly referred to as CAT 5). This wire will be used to connect the keypads in each zone to the CA6.4 controller. 16 Gauge minimum, 2 conductor CL3 rated wire. (Russound AW162CL3) This wire is used for direct connection between the CA6.4 and your speakers.
• A small jewelers flat-head screwdriver.
• A medium sized flat-head screwdriver.
• Wire strippers and cutters.
• Electric drill and a 1/2" x 6 "drill bit.
• A steel-wire fish tape.
• A keyhole saw.
• Electrical junction boxes (6).
• A stud finder.
• A screwdriver (cordless recommended)
• Misc. hand tools, nails & screws.
• Cable staples.

Speaker Wire Gauge Guide:

If you have problems or you are not absolutely comfortable with what you are doing, consult a professional carpenter, electrician, or system installer.

Connection Tips

• Disconnect all power cords before connecting to the CA6.4.
• Verify that all connections and polarity are correct.
• Keep all power cords away from all signal cables to prevent noise or humming.
• Choose reliable signal cables / patch cords.
• Label all wires with room location at both ends of the wire.
• Take your time!!! Don't panic about the number of wires; simply connect one at a time.

6. Basic Planning and Layout Considerations

• Where will the speakers be located?
• Where will the keypads be located?
• How will the wiring be routed to each location?
• Where is the source equipment located?
• Where is the CA6.4 controller going to be located?

7. Back Panel Connections

7.1 Source Input Connections

Your source inputs are located at the top left corner of the back panel. Although the source input names are silk screened on the back of the CA6.4, these names are for reference. Any type of source equipment can be connected to any input. Connect each source output, left and right, using quality signal cables / patch cables. Label each cable the name of your source and the input number of the CA6.4 you have selected. Repeat until all sources are connected. List them down below.

List 1 - Source names:

• Input 1 (TUNER):
• Input 2 (CD):
• Input 3 (TAPE):
• Input 4 (AUX):

7.2 Speaker Connections

Each speaker connection on the back panel corresponds to one room/zone. Wire your speakers by first removing the connector for the chosen zone. Using wire strippers, strip back 1/8" of the end of the wire. Insert the proper polarity, left + to left +, left- to left- etc., until all wires are connected in each zone output. Label each wire with the room name and zone number. Write down the room name to the zone number below. Note: We recommend 8 Ohm minimum speakers for each zone. However, speakers as low as 4 Ohm can be safely used in up to two zones, if necessary.

List 2 - Wire color:

• Left +:
• Left -:
• Right +:
• Right -:

List 3 - Room names:

• Zone 1:
• Zone 2:
• Zone 3:
• Zone 4:
• Zone 5:
• Zone 6:

7.3 12-Volt Trigger Output

The 12 volt trigger is engaged when any of the zones are on. The trigger can be used to engage any 12 volt triggered accessory, such as a triggered AC outlet or audio amplifier. The connection for the trigger is made by an 1/8" phono jack. The tip is (+) and sleeve is (-).

A diagram shows the 12V TRIGGER OUTPUT jack.

7.4 Connecting The Infrared Components

• In order for your CA6.4 to transmit the IR signal from the keypads to a source, an emitter must be connected from the IR outputs marked 1-4. Each of these outputs is wired in series and must be connected in consecutive order. For example, the #1 emitter output must be connected in order for the #2 emitter output to transmit the IR command.
• Connect each 845.1 mini-emitter to the source IR output. Refer to the source number you had written down in list 1.
• Remove the adhesive back and position the IR receiver on the product you wish to control. Stick the 845.1 emitter directly over the source components IR window. The CA6.4 will direct the IR command to the source component you wish to control.
• Repeat connections until all emitters match the selected sources.

A diagram shows IR emitters connected to a CA unit and various source components (CD PLAYER, CASSETTE DECK, TUNER).

7.5 Connecting the IR Link

When two CA6.4 Controllers are to be used in an installation, the IR Link connection is used to pass IR signal between the two units. Use a 1/8", mono, phone plug, male-to-male cable connected from the IR Link on the first CA6.4 Controller to the IR Link on the second CA6.4. When connected, you may connect your IR emitters to either unit's IR Remote Output jacks.

7.6 Keypad Connections

Each keypad connection on the back panel corresponds to the room / zone number chosen for your speakers. Each zone operates independently, so it is very important to connect the keypad to the correct zone keypad input. Remove the connector and strip 1/8" off each end of the wire insulation. Connect each wire 1 thru 8 using a small jewelers screwdriver. At this point it is not important what color wires connect where, however, take note of the color of each wire and number indicated on the connector when connected to the back panel.

Write down the room name to the zone number below. Note: the keypad and the speakers in each room must be hooked to the same zone number. See List 3.

List 4 - Room names:

• Zone 1:
• Zone 4:
• Zone 2:
• Zone 5:
• Zone 3:
• Zone 6:

List 5 - Wire color:

• Pin 1:
• Pin 2:
• Pin 3:
• Pin 4:
• Pin 5:
• Pin 6:
• Pin 7:
• Pin 8:

NOTE: Preset volume and balance level adjustments can be made via the volume (VOL) and balance (BAL) potentiometers mounted on the keypad's circuit board.

A diagram shows the back panel of the CA6.4 with connections for KEYPAD ZONE INPUT and IR LINK CONNECTORS.

8. Standard Keypad Installation

The CA6.4 Central Controller Amplifier is offered with standard keypads and LCD keypads. If you are installing a unit with LCD keypads skip to step 9.

8.1 Installing the CA KP Keypads

• The best performance is achieved with the keypad away from any direct sunlight. Also consider the convenience when choosing a location.
• Choose a place that is easily seen from the position where a person is most likely to be located.
• Check whether or not you can route the wire to the location you have chosen.
• Purchase retro-fit plastic junction boxes (min. 20 cubic inches) and cut in the boxes using a key-hole saw or sheetrock knife/hand saw.
• Route the wire to the junction box from the CA6.4 location.
• Strip the insulation back 1/8" from each twisted wire. Connect each wire to the correct position 1 thru 8. Refer to List 5.
• If you feel uncomfortable cutting into your walls and running wire through the walls, seek help from a professional installer or an electrician.
• Mount the keypad in the junction box and attach the Decora plate.
• The CA KP keypad has source labels for your convenience. Place the label on the keypad keeping the input number in sequence with the source selected.
• Repeat the above steps until all keypads are installed.

A diagram shows the CA KP keypad and its connections.

8.2 Installing the Optional CA-LRN Learning Keypads

• Connect the CA-LRN's Interface cable to the 16 pin header located on the CA KP. Note the location of the red stripe.
• Mount the keypads into double gang box and attach the double gang Decora plate.
• Skip to step 10

9. Installing the CA-LCD Keypads

9.1 Keypad Connections (See Figure 1)

Connect each wire 1 thru 8 using a small jewelers screwdriver. Take note of the color of each wire and the number, being sure that the color and number match at the keypad and the keypad input on the controller. If you are using the Optional SRM-2.1 speaker relay module, wire the +, - terminals of the CA-LCD to the SRM-2.1 +, - terminals.

A diagram labeled Figure 1 shows the connections for the CA-LCD keypad and the optional SRM-2.1 module.

9.2 Installing the Keypad (see Figure 2)

The best performance is achieved when the keypad is placed away from direct sunlight. Consider a convenient operating location before wiring. Choose a place that is easily seen from the common areas of the room. Be sure that you will be able to route the wire for the keypad for the area you have selected. The wire should not be run or placed near AC wiring. Mount the keypad into a standard 18 cubic inch j-box or p-ring using a Decora-style cover plate when finished. If you are installing the optional DSC keypad you will need to use a double-gang electrical box. If you are installing the CA-LCD, DSC and the optional DAN keypad you will need to install a triple-gang electrical box.

A diagram labeled Figure 2 shows the CA-LCD keypad.

9.3 Setting the Keypad (See Figure 3)

Before the keypad is installed into the j-box, turn on the power so that you can operate the keypad. The amber and the green backlight brightness can be individually set. Note the brightness controls are located on the side of the keypad. Adjust to the desired brightness the backlight that first comes on. Press and hold the lamp button on the front of the keypad until the backlight switches to the other color. Adjust the brightness for the selected color. Also the maximum volume and the balance can be set at this time.

A diagram labeled Figure 3 shows the keypad controls for brightness and volume/balance.

10. Speaker Installation

• If you are installing in-wall speakers, follow the instructions provided with your speakers for mounting.
• Connect each speaker wire to the correct polarity (+,-).

Finally!!!

• Make sure that the voltage selector, located on the rear panel of the CA6.4, is on the correct current for your country, either 110V or 220V.
• Power up by plugging in all power cords and turning the CA6.4 and sources on.

A diagram shows a speaker wire connection with polarity indicated.

11. Operation

11.1 Operating the Main Unit

• Power switch: When the power switch is engaged, the CA6.4 power indicator will be lit an amber color. The CA6.4 should be left on at all times. The unit will consume very little power unless the zones are on and active. The unit has a stand-by mode when the zones are inactive.
• Zone Indicators: The zone indicator will light either red for off or green for on. The zones can only be turned on from the keypads. All functions are accessed through the keypad only.

11.2 Operating the CA KP Keypad (See Figure 4)

1. Power On/Off: This knob on the CA KP keypad controls all functions except for the IR management. To turn the unit on, simply turn the control knob clockwise. You will feel and hear a click verifying that the unit has been activated. The lights on the keypad will also illuminate to verify the zone is now on. Note - The CA6.4 front panel zone-management lights also informs you which zones are On or Off.
2. Volume Up / Down: Once the unit is on, the knob can be used to adjust the volume. To adjust the volume up, turn the knob clockwise, and to turn the volume down, turn counter-clockwise.
3. Source Selection: By pressing the knob, the zone will scroll through the four sources connected to the CA6.4. The keypad has four lights (LED's) that indicate the source selected.
4. IR Source Control: The IR window repeats all source commands from the source component's remote through the CA6.4 and 845.1 emitters. Most IR receivers have a range of 20' at an angle of 60-65 degrees.

A diagram labeled Figure 4 shows the CA KP keypad controls.

11.3 Operating the CA-LCD Keypad (See Figure 5)

1. Display: The LCD panel displays the source selected and the volume level.
2. Source: The source button is pressed to select one of the four sources to listen to. Press the source button until the desired source is selected. The source will be displayed on the LCD display panel.
3. Store: The store function is used to select and store one of the 23 preset source names for each of the four sources. Select the source name that you want to change by selecting source. Press and hold the store button for approximately 3 seconds, and the display begins to flash. Immediately press the UP/DOWN volume buttons to select the different source names. After you have selected the name, press the store button again.
4. Volume Up/Down: The UP/DOWN arrows for volume are used to select the volume level and to select a different source name after the store button is pressed. If the button is pressed and held the volume will ramp up or down.
5. Power: Turn on or off any zone by pressing the power button on the front of the corresponding keypad. When the keypad comes on, it will automatically select the source that was previously selected and set the volume to minimum.
6. Lamp: The lamp button when pressed and released will turn on and off the backlight lamp. The backlight color can be set to amber or green by pressing and holding the button. The backlight will change from one color to the other.
7. IR confirmation LED: This LED will flash to confirm the reception of an IR signal from a remote control through the IR receiver.
8. IR receiver: The IR receiver is used to receive commands from an IR remote control. Remote controls used for the source equipment will pass through to the main controller and on to the source equipment. The center frequency for the IR receiver is 40KHz. It will receive IR signals from 38KHz to 42KHz. To control the functions of the CA-LCD keypad, use the CA Remote control (see Figure 6). The CA remote control will operate the lamp, source selection, volume up / down and room on / off.

Diagrams labeled Figure 5 and Figure 6 show the CA-LCD keypad and the CA Remote control, respectively.

12. Technical Information:

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 KHz (+/- 1 dB)
• 20 Watts RMS / Channel @ 8Ω
• 12 Channels / 6 Stereo Amplifiers
• Total Harmonic Distortion: .1%
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 89 dB min, "A" weighted
• Power Supply: 110/220v High Current Toroidal
• ETL listed. Conforms to UL Standard UL1492 and CSA Standard C22-2 No. 1-M94
• Fully Functional Keypad with IR Receiver Centered at 40 KHz

13. Warranty

The Russound CA6.4 is fully guaranteed for Two (2) years from the date of purchase against all defects in materials and workmanship. During this period Russound will replace any defective parts and correct any defect in workmanship without charge for either parts or labor. For this warranty to apply, the unit must be installed and used according to its written instructions. If service is necessary, it must be performed by Russound. The unit must be returned to Russound at the owner's expense and with prior written permission. Accidental damage and shipping damage are not considered defects under the terms of the warranty. Russound assumes no responsibility for defects resulting from abuse or servicing performed by an agency or person not specifically authorized in writing by Russound. Damage to or destruction of components due to improper use voids the warranty. In these cases the repair will be made at the owner's expense. To return for repairs, the unit must be shipped to Russound at the owner's expense, along with a note explaining the nature of the service required. Be sure to pack in a corrugated container with at least 3 inches of resilient material to protect the unit from damage in transit.

Now sit back and let all members of the household enjoy the personalization that the Russound CA6.4 provides. Happy listening!

Russound A/V DISTRIBUTION & CONTROL SYSTEMS 5 Forbes Rd. Newmarket, NH 03857, USA 603.659.5170 • Fax 603.659.5388 e-mail: tech@russound.com

Come visit us at: www.russound.com