Yorkville YXL Series YXL Tower10/12 Portable Column PA
Owner's Manual
Important Safety Instructions
[High Voltage Warning] symbol within an equilateral triangle alerts users to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage that may pose a risk of electric shock.
[Do Not Stack] symbol indicates the product should not be vertically stacked due to its nature.
[Important Information] symbol within an equilateral triangle alerts users to important operating and maintenance instructions.
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT CONNECT TO MAINS POWER SUPPLY WHILE GRILLE IS REMOVED.
General Warnings:
- Risk of electric shock: Do not open the cover. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. For indoor use only.
- Installed battery packs shall not be exposed to excessive heat (sunshine, fire, etc.).
- Read and understand the Owner's Manual before operation. Save instructions for future reference.
- Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Keep packaging materials for potential returns.
- Do not expose to rain or moisture. Do not use near water.
- Connect only to the specified voltage.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding plugs. Consult an electrician for outlet replacement if needed.
- Protect the power cord from damage (walking on, pinching). Do not operate if damaged.
- Unplug during lightning storms or long periods of non-use.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- [Hot Surface] warning.
- [Do Not Push or Pull] warning.
- [Overhead Load] warning.
- Ensure proper ventilation. Do not install near heat sources.
- No naked flame sources (e.g., candles) should be placed on the apparatus.
- Terminals marked with a lightning bolt are hazardous live and require installation by an instructed person.
- Do not place on unstable carts, stands, or tables to avoid tip-over injuries. Use manufacturer-recommended accessories.
- Prolonged use of headphones at high volume may cause hearing damage.
- Apparatus should not be exposed to dripping or splashing water; no liquid-filled objects should be placed on it.
- To disconnect from AC mains, unplug the power supply cord from the receptacle. The plug must remain accessible.
EMC Declaration
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. If interference occurs, users are encouraged to try correcting it by reorienting the antenna, increasing separation between equipment and receiver, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
YXL Tower10/12 Series Powered Speakers Overview
The YXL Series offers an excellent ratio of power, performance, and value for full-range active loudspeaker enclosures. Providing 1550 watts peak with efficient speaker components, the YXL Series is exceptionally loud for its size. It offers multiple input options for connecting audio sources including Bluetooth, microphones, musical instruments, and other audio sources. The onboard mixer, though minimal, is useful and versatile. The sleek mid/high column design allows for easy integration where a minimal aesthetic is required.
Up to 16 YXL Series Powered speakers can be linked together, with a maximum of three active 'mixers' at any one time. This configuration allows for up to 6 mic sources and 6 instrument/line sources from three or more enclosures. Master level controls adjust individual enclosure levels, which is invaluable for large installations like clusters or trade shows, or when used as repeater or side-fill enclosures.
NOTE: The Link system allows additional YXL Series powered speakers to be driven from a single source (up to 16 enclosures). A maximum of 3 mixers can be used when linking.
USER TIP: When a pair of YXL Series powered speakers are Linked, you can use both mixers integrated on each cabinet.
Features
- 1550 watts peak power
- Superior DSP processing with loudspeaker thermal and over-excursion protection
- Low distortion and high power-handling 10-inch or 12-inch woofer
- 4 x 3-inch mid drivers
- 0.75-inch compression driver
- Ultra-clear reproduction across the entire audio bandwidth
- Lightweight and high efficiency bi-amped power module
- Recessed control panel
- Master Level control with LED Activity indicator
- 3 Performance modes: Concert, Club, and Speech
- Toggleable 3-channel mixer with level controls and Clip indicators
- Bluetooth input / streaming
- 2 Microphone Inputs with level control and phantom power
- 1/4-inch TRS Instrument and Line Inputs
- 1/8-inch Aux Input for mono or stereo audio sources
- Main In / Link Out for connecting multiple YXL Series powered speakers
- Wood cabinet with ABS plastic construction for the column
- Tough, full-length metal grille
Power Switch & Mode LED
The AC power switch on the rear panel controls power On/Off. The Mode LED illuminates when power is supplied.
Mode Switch
The Mode Selector applies specific EQ and tone settings tailored for common use cases:
- Concert: Reproduces instruments and vocals equally and naturally, ideal for live performance.
- Club: Features a +3dB bass shelf and linked limiters between woofer and mid/high drivers, ideal for music playback.
- Speech: Optimized for human voice while minimizing feedback.
Controls and Indicators
Master Control
Sets the overall volume level for the YXL Series enclosure. In multi-speaker systems, each speaker's volume is set individually via its Master control.
Activity LED
Illuminates when an audio signal is present from any source sent to the Master. Note: The LED will not illuminate if the Master control is set to minimum.
Bluetooth
The YXL Tower supports Bluetooth audio streaming from devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It also enables wireless stereo pairing between two YXL Tower units, where one acts as the "Primary" (left channel) and the other as "Secondary" (right channel). Only the Primary unit connects to your device.
Enabling Bluetooth
Bluetooth is disabled by default when powered on. Tap the Bluetooth button to enable it. The unit will attempt to reconnect to previously paired devices or establish wireless stereo connections.
Pairing
To pair a device, press and hold the Bluetooth button for 4 seconds, then release.
Status Indicator
A blue status indicator shows the Bluetooth connection status:
Mode | Linked | Link-Back | Standby | Pairing | Stereo Grouping | Grouped |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standalone | ON | ON, blinks 1x every 2 seconds | Flashes 1x every 2 seconds | Flashes 2x per second | N/A | N/A |
Stereo Primary | N/A | ON, blinks 1x every 2 seconds | Flashes 2x every 2 seconds | Flashes 3x per second | Double flash | ON |
Stereo Secondary | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Double flash | Slow flash |
(*) Blinking light that turns off repeatedly
(**) Light off that turns on repeatedly
Level Control
Streamed music volume can be adjusted via the connected Bluetooth device or the Channel 3 Level control on the YXL Tower. The Channel 3 Level also sets the maximum volume a connected device can achieve.
Stereo Mode
Enables wireless stereo playback between two YXL Tower units. One unit acts as the Primary (left channel), maintaining the Bluetooth connection, while the other acts as the Secondary (right channel). To enable, double-tap the Bluetooth button on the desired Primary unit, then double-tap on the Secondary unit. The order is important. Both units will attempt to re-establish Stereo Mode automatically upon power-up. Pairing a new device to a Primary unit in Stereo Mode is possible. Pairing to a Secondary unit will end the stereo connection.
Button Operation
- Single Tap: Enable Bluetooth
- Double Tap: Enter Stereo Mode
- Press and Hold (4 seconds): Enter Pairing Mode
- Press and Hold (8 seconds): Disable Bluetooth
Range and Mixer
Range
Bluetooth operating range is rated for 10 meters (33 feet) line of sight. Link quality can be affected by 2.4 GHz traffic or physical obstructions.
NOTE: When connected via Bluetooth, all audio is streamed from your device. Turn off device notifications to prevent interruptions.
Mixer
-
Channel Level Controls & Clip LEDs
Adjust input sensitivity and signal level for each channel. Clip LEDs illuminate 3 dB before clipping, affected by source gain and channel level. The Master control should be adjusted for the overall system level.
NOTE: Bluetooth source gain adjustments are made on the source device.
-
Channel 1 Mic / Instrument In
Accepts standard dynamic, condenser, or phantom-powered microphones (phantom power is built-in). The 1/4-inch TRS input is optimized for instruments like guitars, basses, or keyboards. Do not use XLR and 1/4-inch inputs simultaneously.
NOTE: Some condenser microphones may require phantom power.
TECH NOTE: A fixed 90 Hz high-pass filter minimizes low-frequency rumble from acoustic instruments and reduces boominess for vocals.
-
Channel 2 Mic / Line In
Accepts standard dynamic, condenser, or phantom-powered microphones (phantom power is built-in). The 1/4-inch TRS input is for line-level sources (e.g., CD players, electronic instruments). Balanced sources are recommended to prevent hum/buzz, especially with long cables or separate AC power connections. Do not use XLR and 1/4-inch inputs simultaneously.
-
Channel 3 Stereo Aux In
A 1/8-inch line input jack for stereo audio sources (e.g., smartphones, laptops). It sums left and right signals.
NOTE: Channel 3's 1/8-inch TRS Line input and Bluetooth can be used simultaneously.
Sub Level
Adjusts the signal level to the woofer for bass control. This affects only signals going to the internal amplifier, not those sent via Link Out.
Main In / Link Out
Connectors for driving additional powered enclosures from a single source. Up to 16 YXL Series enclosures can be linked. The Main In jack is used for connecting to an external mixer or another YXL link output. The Main In and Link Out jacks operate at line level (+4 dBu) for full power. For weaker signals, use the line inputs of the first cabinet. Link Out jacks are high-quality balanced inputs with excellent common mode (hum) rejection. Use proper balanced cables for maximum hum rejection.
YXL Tower Assembly and Components
Assembly
The YXL Tower is assembled in two main steps:
- Insert the Spacer into the Woofer / Control Unit.
- Insert the Speaker Array into the Spacer.
Components
The YXL Tower system consists of three main parts:
- Woofer / Control Unit: The base unit containing the woofer and control electronics.
- Extension Bar(s): Connects the Woofer/Control Unit to the Speaker Array, providing height adjustment.
- Speaker Array Bar: The top section containing the mid-range drivers and compression driver.
Specifications
Feature | YXL TOWER10 | YXL TOWER12 |
---|---|---|
Power (watts) | 1550 Peak (1250 Subwoofer, 300 Mid/High) | 1550 Peak (1250 Subwoofer, 300 Mid/High) |
Max SPL (dB @ 1m) | 124.5 Peak (116.5 Continuous) | 126 Peak (119.5 Continuous) |
Frequency Response (-3dB) | 49Hz-20kHz | 45Hz-20kHz |
High Driver | 0.75" Exit Neodymium Compression Driver | 0.75" Exit Neodymium Compression Driver |
Mid Driver | 4 x 3" Neodymium Mid Range Drivers | 4 x 3" Neodymium Mid Range Drivers |
Subwoofer | 10" Neodymium Woofer | 12" Neodymium Woofer |
Input Features | 3 Channel Mixer, 7 inputs | 3 Channel Mixer, 7 inputs |
Input Types | Ch.1 Mic/Instrument, Ch.2 Mic/Line, Ch.3 3.5mm Aux in, Bluetooth®, Main In | Ch.1 Mic/Instrument, Ch.2 Mic/Line, Ch.3 3.5mm Aux in, Bluetooth®, Main In |
Output Volume Controls | Master Level and Sub Level | Master Level and Sub Level |
Main In/Link Out Connection | XLR | XLR |
LED Indicators | Ch.1 Clip, Ch.2 Clip, Ch.3 Clip, Master Activity, Mode (Concert/Club/Speech), Bluetooth Status | Ch.1 Clip, Ch.2 Clip, Ch.3 Clip, Master Activity, Mode (Concert/Club/Speech), Bluetooth Status |
Dimensions (inches) | Subwoofer: 16D x 12.6W x 22H Extension Column: 3.6D x 3.6W x 32.5H Speaker Column: 3.6D x 3.6W x 32.8H (Assembled height: 79.7) |
Subwoofer: 16D x 12.6W x 23.9H Extension Column: 3.6D x 3.6W x 32.5H Speaker Column: 3.6D x 3.6W x 32.8H (Assembled height: 81.9) |
Dimensions (cm) | Subwoofer: 40.6D x 32W x 55.9H Extension Column: 9.1D x 9.1W x 82.6H Speaker Column: 9.1D x 9.1W x 83.3H (Assembled height: 202.4) |
Subwoofer: 40.6D x 32W x 60.7H Extension Column: 9.1D x 9.1W x 82.6H Speaker Column: 9.1D x 9.1W x 83.3H (Assembled height: 208.0) |
Weight (lbs/kg) | 40.3 / 18.3 | 41.1 / 18.6 |
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Block Diagram Description
The block diagram illustrates the signal flow within the YXL TOWER10/12. Audio signals enter through various inputs: Channel 1 (Mic/Instrument via XLR or 1/4-inch TRS, with optional +24V Phantom power), Channel 2 (Mic/Line via XLR or 1/4-inch TRS), Channel 3 (Stereo Aux In via 1/8-inch TRS), and Bluetooth. The Main In (XLR) serves as a primary input or link output from another unit.
These signals are processed by an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), then by a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) which handles EQ, effects, and other processing, controlled by a Microcontroller. The processed signal is converted back to analog via a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC).
Controls include:
- Mixer Enable: Activates the mixer section.
- Mode: Selects performance modes (Concert, Club, Speech).
- Bluetooth: Manages Bluetooth connectivity.
- Sub Level: Controls the woofer's signal level.
- Master Level: Controls the overall output volume.
- ACTIVITY LED: Indicates signal presence.
The signal is then sent to separate amplifiers for Low Frequency (LF AMP) and High Frequency (HF AMP) drivers, which power the speaker components.
Warranty
Yorkville offers a two and ten-year unlimited warranty on this product, which is transferable and does not require registration. If the product fails within two years of purchase (ten years for wooden enclosures), return it to your Yorkville dealer with proof of purchase for free repair. This applies to most Yorkville products, excluding specific series like YSM, Coliseum Mini, and TX Series.
Exclusions include freight charges, consequential damages, weather damage, improper installation, extreme humidity, accidents, or natural disasters. Consumables like vacuum tubes or bulbs are not covered. Warranty is valid only in Canada and the United States.
Contact Information
Canada
Yorkville Sound Limited
550 Granite Court
Pickering, Ontario L1W-3Y8 CANADA
Voice: 905-837-8481
Fax: 905-839-5776
U.S.A.
Yorkville Sound Inc.
4625 Witmer Industrial Estate
Niagara Falls, New York 14305 USA
Voice: 716-297-2920
Fax: 716-297-3689
Website: www.yorkville.com
Quality and Innovation Since 1963