VIO S218F Quick Start User Manual

Introduction

This document provides a quick start guide for the dBTechnologies VIO S218F active bassreflex-horn subwoofer.

Dimensions

The VIO S218F subwoofer has the following dimensions:

• Width (W): 1300 mm (51.18 in)
• Height (H): 520 mm (20.47 in)
• Depth (D): 800 mm (31.5 in)

[Diagram showing the subwoofer with W, H, D labels indicating these measurements]

Main Features

• Impressive sound pressure
• Powerful amplifier
• Quick installation
• Flyable use
• AURORA Net control

Package Contents

The box contains:

• 1x VIO S218F subwoofer
• 1x mains cable
• 2x fuses for 100-120Vac power supply
• 2x snap pins
• This quick start and warranty documentation

Description

The VIO S218F is a flyable active bassreflex-horn subwoofer designed for professional use. It is equipped with two 18" neodymium woofers (4" voice coil). The powerful DSP controlled double DIGIPRO® G4 amplifier section can handle up to 3200 W (RMS power). RDnet connections allow in-depth remote control, supported by free software like AURORA NET and dBTechnologies Composer. The custom flybar facilitates easy setup for various configurations, complementing installations with the VIO line-array series.

Accessories

The following accessories are available for the VIO S218F:

• DRK-218F: Flybar for flyable use. [Diagram showing the DRK-218F flybar]
• DRK-212: Flybar for stacked use with VIO-L212 speakers. [Diagram showing the DRK-212 flybar]
• DO-VIOS218F: Dolly for transport. [Diagram showing the DO-VIOS218F dolly]
• DRK-210: Flybar for stacked use with VIO-L210 speakers. [Diagram showing the DRK-210 flybar]

Technical Specifications

I/O and Control Panel

The rear amplifier control panel features the following connections and controls:

• 1. Balanced audio input and output link: XLR connectors for audio signal input and output linking.
• 2. Polarity switch: Allows selection between 0° and 180° polarity.
• 3. Delay rotary control: Adjusts delay in milliseconds.
• 4. Cardioid preset switch: Activates the cardioid dispersion pattern.
• 5. Status LEDs: Indicate Limiter, Signal, Mute/Protection, and Ready status. The "Ready" LED indicates when polarity and delay are bypassed when green.
• 6. Subwoofer attenuation rotary control: Adjusts the subwoofer's output level.
• 7. System Test button: Initiates a system test.
• 8. Mini B-type USB port: For firmware updates.
• 9. RDNet Data In / Data Out and Control LEDs: For network connection and status indication.
• 10. HPF Xover (balanced) output: XLR output for high-pass filtered signal.
• 11. Xover rotary control: Adjusts the crossover frequency.
• 12. Full-range Mains input: POWERCON TRUE1 connector for power supply.
• 13. Mains Link output: POWERCON TRUE1 connector for power linking.
• 14. Mains Fuse: Housing for mains fuses.

[Diagram illustrating the rear panel with numbered controls and connectors]

Setup, Turn On, and I/O Settings

Connection:

• Connect the audio input to the balanced input (1).
• To link multiple VIO S218F units, use XLR cables connecting the Link output of one unit to the balanced input of the next.

Power On:

• Plug the supplied POWERCON TRUE1 cable into the mains input (12) to power on the system.

Remote Control (RDNet):

• For remote control, connect the Data Input of the subwoofer to a hardware remote controller (RDNet Control 2 or RDNet Control 8) using etherCON connectors.
• To link subwoofers in an RDNet network, connect the Data Output of the first unit to the Data Input of the second unit using etherCON connectors.
• The "Link" LED indicates a recognized RDNet connection. The "Active" LED flashes when data is present. The "Remote Preset Active" LED indicates that local controls are bypassed by remote control.

Refer to the RDNet Control 2 or RDNet Control 8 user manuals for more information.

Power Supply Specifications (Power Absorption)

• Average Use (1/8 full power): 3.2 A (220-240V~) / 5 A (100-120V~)
• Maximum Use (1/3 full power): 6.6 A (220-240V~) / 12.3 A (100-120V~)
• Idle (speaker on, no signal): 53 W

INSTALLER NOTES: Values are for average operating conditions (music program with infrequent clipping) or heavy operating conditions (frequent clipping or limiter activation). Sizing should consider heavy conditions for professional installations and tours.

Handles and Mechanical Fixing Points

Handles: Handles are located on each side of the subwoofer for easy handling (A).

Mechanical Fixing Points:

• Points (B) on the top of the subwoofer are for stacked and flyable use.
• Points (C) on the top of the subwoofer are for stacked configurations with DRK-210 and DRK-212 flybars.

[Diagram showing the subwoofer with handles (A) and fixing points (B, C) highlighted]

Installation (Stacking)

To stack subwoofers:

1. Place the upper subwoofer above the lowest one as shown. [Diagram showing two subwoofers stacked]
2. Lift both bracket side joints of the lowest subwoofer. Ensure the side joints of the lowest subwoofer fit with the upper one brackets. [Diagram showing bracket alignment]
3. Insert the two included snap pins into the related fixing holes to fasten the subwoofers. Repeat this procedure for each subwoofer. [Diagram showing snap pin insertion]

Configurations

Flyable Configuration

The VIO S218F can be hung using the DRK-218F custom flybar (not included). This accessory allows flyable configurations of up to 14 subwoofers. Refer to the DRK-218F user manual for more information.

[Diagram illustrating a flyable configuration of VIO S218F subwoofers]

Flyable Cardioid Configuration

For a cardioid configuration, position the mid subwoofer facing rear and activate the cardioid preset using the dedicated button on the amplifier panel.

[Diagram illustrating a flyable cardioid configuration]

Stacked Configurations

Example 1: Stacked configuration with DRK-212 flybar and VIO L212 speakers. Refer to the DRK-212 user manual for more information.

[Diagram illustrating a stacked configuration with DRK-212 and VIO L212]

Example 2: Stacked configuration with DRK-210 flybar and VIO L210 speakers. Refer to the DRK-210 user manual for more information.

[Diagram illustrating a stacked configuration with DRK-210 and VIO L210]

Important Notes and Warnings

EMI Classification

This is a Class A equipment, designed and suitable for professional use, compliant with EN 55032 and 55035 standards. Warning: This equipment may cause radio interference in residential environments as it complies with Class A of CISPR 32.

FCC Class A Statement

Any modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a commercial environment. The equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used according to the manual, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation in a residential area may cause such interference, requiring the user to correct it at their own expense.

General Warning

Ensure the loudspeaker is securely installed in a stable position to prevent injuries or damages. Do not stack loudspeakers without proper fastening systems. Before hanging, check all components for damages, deformations, or missing parts. Avoid outdoor use in bad weather conditions. Contact dBTechnologies for suitable accessories. dBTechnologies is not responsible for damages caused by inappropriate accessories or additional devices.

Features, specifications, and appearance are subject to change without notice. dBTechnologies reserves the right to make improvements without obligation to update previously manufactured products.

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install according to manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near heat sources (radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution, when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

Additional Safety Instructions

• No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
• Do not use the apparatus in tropical climates.

Warnings and Maintenance

Only expert personnel may use the product and its accessories! To prevent hazards to people, animals and/or objects, make sure that the installation is stable and secure. Comply with the safety regulations and laws in force in the country in which you use the product. For safe use, periodically check that all parts are in good working condition before use. Only authorised personnel may carry out design, calculations, installation, testing and maintenance of professional flown or stacked audio systems. AEB Industriale shall not be liable for improper installation carried out without adequate safety measures.

Never suspend the speakers from the handles! Only use the accessories and configurations described in this manual, and proceed in accordance with the instructions given in the manuals for the accessories.

Do not obstruct the amplifier cooling fins at the back. In the event of overheating, the audio volume is gradually reduced until the module is thermally stable. The level is automatically restored on reaching the correct operating temperature.

Do not attempt to open the amplifier.

In the event of malfunction, immediately turn off the power, disconnect the unit from the mains and contact an authorised service centre.

Only use the power cable provided.

The USB SERVICE DATA connection is to be used exclusively for updating the product's firmware; do not connect any other USB device to the unit to avoid the risk of damage and malfunction.

Do not use the monitor for a prolonged period with the limiter LED steadily lit or flashing as this indicates operation under stress with excessive distortion.

Check periodically the integrity and the functionality of the accessories and the technical equipments for a safe installation. user should never apply a load that exceeds the working load limits of any rigging components or equipment here presented. design, calculation, installation, testing and maintanance of suspension and stack systems for audio equipment must be performed only by qualified and authorized personnel. AEB Industriale s.r.l. denies any and all responsibility for improper installations, in the absence of safety requirements.

Notes

[Placeholder for notes as seen in the PDF]

Contact Information

For further information or support, contact:

A.E.B. Industriale Srl
Via Brodolini, 8
Località Crespellano
40053 VALSAMOGGIA
BOLOGNA (ITALIA)
Tel: +39 051 969870
Fax: +39 051 969725
Website: www.dbtechnologies.com
Email: info@dbtechnologies-aeb.com

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