Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the SoundWorks Digital system by Cambridge SoundWorks. This 2.1 digital speaker system features a SPDIF digital input for crystal clear, distortion-free audio and a second analog stereo input, allowing you to keep your main audio source (like a computer) playing while connecting another device, such as a CD player. We believe you will find the speaker system's sound quality astonishing, whether connected to your computer or used as a standalone music system.
At Cambridge SoundWorks, we approached the creation of a "multimedia" speaker with the assumption that computer users value sound quality as much as music lovers. Unlike many manufacturers who simply add magnetic shielding and a new nameplate to existing models, we developed a completely new system. This speaker system significantly outperforms most boom boxes and rack audio systems, and far exceeds typical "multimedia" speakers.
Cambridge SoundWorks Contact Information:
1-800-YES-HIFI (1-800-937-4434)
Hours: 8:00 A.M. to Midnight Eastern Time (Mon-Sat), Noon-8:00 P.M. Eastern Time (Sun)
Outside US: Tel: 617-332-5936, Fax: 617-527-3194
Safety & Regulatory Information
Notice for the USA (FCC Part 15)
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. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, this notice is not a guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the distance between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician.
CAUTION: To comply with the limits for the Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules, this device must be installed with computer equipment certified to comply with the Class B limits.
All cables used to connect the computer and peripherals must be shielded and grounded. Operation with non-certified computers or non-shielded cables may result in interference to radio or television reception.
Modifications
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user's authority to operate the device.
Notice for Canada
This apparatus complies with the Class B limits for radio interference as specified in the Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations.
Declaration of Conformity
Creative Labs Inc., located at 1901 McCarthy Boulevard, Milpitas, CA. 95035, declares under its sole responsibility that the product Trade Name: Creative Labs/Cambridge SoundWorks, Model Number: CSW250, has been tested according to FCC / CISPR22/85 requirements for Class B devices and found compliant with EMI/EMC: ANSI C63.4 1992, FCC Part 15 Subpart B.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesirable operation.
Compliance
This product conforms to the following Council Directives: Directive 89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC (EMC), 73/23/EEC (LVD).
⚠️ WARNING: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
Important Notice
The serial number for the SoundWorks Digital is located on the subwoofer. Please write this number down and keep it in a secure area.
Important Safety Instructions
READ INSTRUCTIONS: All safety and operating instructions should be read before the SoundWorks Digital amplified subwoofer/satellite system is operated.
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS: The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
HEED WARNINGS: All warnings on the subwoofer and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS: All operating and use instructions should be followed.
CLEANING: Unplug the subwoofer from the wall outlet or other power source before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
ATTACHMENTS: Do not use attachments not recommended by Cambridge SoundWorks as they may cause hazards.
WATER AND MOISTURE: ? Do not use the subwoofer near water—for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.
ACCESSORIES: Do not place the SoundWorks Digital system on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The subwoofer or satellites may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by Cambridge SoundWorks, or sold with the product. Any mounting of the satellites or subwoofer should follow the manufacturer's instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by Cambridge SoundWorks.
VENTILATION: Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation, to ensure reliable operation of the subwoofer and to prevent it from overheating; these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. The subwoofer should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or Cambridge SoundWorks' instructions have been adhered to.
HEAT: The subwoofer should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, and other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
POWER SOURCES: The subwoofer should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. For products intended to operate from battery power or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
POLARIZATION: The subwoofer may be equipped with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.
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, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the subwoofer.
LIGHTNING: ⚡️ For added protection for the SoundWorks Digital system during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet. This will prevent damage to the subwoofer due to lightning and power-line surges.
OVERLOADING: Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY: Never push objects of any kind into the subwoofer through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the subwoofer.
SERVICING: Do not attempt to service the subwoofer yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE: Unplug the subwoofer from the wall outlet or other power source and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
- When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
- If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the subwoofer.
- If the subwoofer has been exposed to rain or water.
- If the subwoofer does not operate normally by following the operating instructions; or exhibits a distinct change in performance.
- If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
REPLACEMENT PARTS: When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by Cambridge SoundWorks or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
SAFETY CHECK: Upon completion of any service or repairs to the SoundWorks Digital system, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the SoundWorks Digital system is in proper operating condition.
WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING: The SoundWorks Digital satellites should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by Cambridge SoundWorks.
Installation Sequence
Before beginning installation, please read through all instructions.
- Place the satellites and subwoofer at appropriate sites near your computer.
- Connect the satellites to the subwoofer, leaving all wires accessible for now.
- Connect your sound card output to the subwoofer.
- Connect the volume control to the subwoofer.
- Connect the power supply adapter to the subwoofer.
- Listen to the system and adjust the bass level control for pleasing bass output.
- You may wish to experiment with satellite placement briefly before concealing the connecting wires and making the installation permanent.
Included Components:
- Subwoofer/amplifier
- Volume control with 6ft / 2m audio connecting cable
- Satellite speakers (2)
- Desktop stands for satellites (2)
- 15 VDC external power supply
- Stereo audio cable, 6ft / 2m (Green miniplugs)
- RCA-to-RCA Cable, 6ft / 2m
- 9ft / 3m speaker wires for connecting satellites (2)
- RCA-to-mono cable
- Stick-on feet for cubes (2 sets)
- Semipermanent mounting strip for attaching volume control
- Wall-mounting hardware for satellites (2)
- "Hook and loop" fasteners for attaching satellites to computer monitor (4)
Note: Please note that the type of adapter supplied varies according to country. If anything is missing, contact the retailer where it was purchased. Save the carton and its inserts in case you need to ship or move your SoundWorks Digital system later.
Diagram Description: An illustration shows the subwoofer/amplifier unit, volume control, two satellite speakers, desktop stands, power supply, various cables (stereo audio, RCA-to-RCA, speaker wires, RCA-to-mono), stick-on feet, mounting strip, wall-mounting hardware, and hook-and-loop fasteners.
Satellite Connection
Follow these steps to connect the speaker wires to the satellites and subwoofer:
- From both ends of each speaker wire, pull off and discard the precut strips of insulation, revealing the bare wires.
- Twist the individual strands of bare wire tightly together so that there are no free strands that could short across the speaker or amplifier terminals.
- To connect the speaker wires to the spring-loaded connectors on the satellites and subwoofer, push back on the spring-loaded tab to expose the connection hole.
- Note the red band around the lead with the copper wire at each end of each speaker cable. This will help you connect speakers "in phase."
- Insert the bare end of the wire into the exposed hole, then release the tab to lock the wire in place.
Connect the red (+) terminals on the subwoofer to their red counterparts on the cube speakers. Connect the black (-) terminals on the subwoofer to their black counterparts on the cube speakers. Use the leads with the red bands for interconnecting the red terminals, and the unmarked leads for the black terminals.
Connecting the two cubes identically assures that they operate "in phase" (their cones move in and out together). "Out-of-phase" connections can muddy the stereo effect. Solo voices, which should appear to come from a point between the two cubes, will sound "split" between them.
The satellite amplifiers inside the subwoofer are specifically designed to drive the satellites. Do not connect these left and right amplifier outputs to any other speakers or any kind of signal processing device.
You can splice more standard speaker wire or regular 18-gauge lamp cord onto the 9-ft. speaker wires supplied using wire nuts. Visit your store or call a Cambridge Soundworks Audio/Video Consultant at 1-800-YES-HIFI to purchase additional wire.
Diagram Description: Shows the spring-loaded connectors on the satellite and subwoofer, illustrating how to insert the bare wire. It also shows the connection terminals labeled "SPEAKER LEFT", "SPEAKER RIGHT", "AUDIO INPUTS 1", "AUDIO INPUTS 2", "SPDIF DIGITAL IN", "BASS LEVEL", and "VOLUME CONTROL" on the subwoofer.
Audio Signal Connections
SPDIF Digital In
If you are connecting to a Sound Blaster Live! or a card with the same type of SPDIF output, connect the mono miniplug end of the RCA-to-mono cable to the SPDIF output jack. Connect the RCA jack of the same cable to one RCA plug of the RCA-to-RCA cable. Connect the other RCA plug to the SPDIF Digital In on your SoundWorks Digital subwoofer.
If your sound card has an RCA SPDIF output, use the RCA-to-RCA cable to connect it to SoundWorks Digital.
If you are connecting to a component CD or DVD player, the SPDIF digital output will typically be a single RCA jack, frequently marked "coaxial digital out" or just "digital out." Portable CD players with digital outputs typically employ a single 3.5mm mono minijack. The presence of a SPDIF connection automatically defeats any analog connection.
Diagram Description: Illustrates connecting a sound card's digital output (e.g., Sound Blaster Live!) to the subwoofer's SPDIF Digital In using an RCA-to-mono cable and an RCA-to-RCA cable. It also shows connecting a CD Player's coaxial digital out to the subwoofer.
Analog Inputs
Connect one of the stereo miniplugs of the supplied stereo audio cable to the audio output jack of your computer. Connect the other miniplug to either of the two audio inputs on the subwoofer. You may simultaneously have another audio signal connected to the other audio input on the subwoofer.
When connecting tape and CD players, it is generally preferable to use the headphone output of the player. Fixed "line out" outputs will work, but any noise present in the player may be more audible at high levels. Some portable players have bass boost circuits designed for their small headphones; switch these circuits off when playing through the SoundWorks Digital speaker system.
If the program source has its own level control, set it at least half-way up, and then use the SoundWorks Digital's volume control to achieve your preferred playback level. If there's audible hum or hiss, or if the volume control adjustment range is unsatisfactory, readjust the level of the program source up or down, and the volume control accordingly.
Diagram Description: Illustrates connecting a computer's Line Out to the subwoofer's Audio Inputs using a stereo audio cable. A list of compatible devices is shown: MD PLAYER, CD PLAYER, RADIO, TAPE PLAYER, MP3 PLAYER (Extra cable not supplied).
Volume Control and Power Connection
The Volume Control
The volume control unit contains the power on/off switch and an LED power indicator, as well as the master volume control. It connects to the subwoofer (see diagram B on page 7). This control can be mounted on the side of your computer monitor or other surface using the provided mounting strip. The mounting strip holds well but can be peeled off gently. Ensure the mounting surface is smooth and clean.
Mounting Steps:
- Remove protective paper from one side of the mounting strip to reveal adhesive.
- Press the exposed adhesive side firmly against the back of the volume control.
- Remove the remaining paper strip from the other side of the adhesive.
- Press the volume control firmly against the desired mounting surface.
Diagram Description: Shows the volume control and the steps for attaching it to a surface using the adhesive strip.
Power Connection
The speaker system uses an external 15-volt DC power supply. Insert the small DC connector into the "15V DC IN" receptacle on the subwoofer (see diagram D). Insert the power supply's AC plug into the appropriate receptacle.
Caution: Please note that the type of adapter varies according to country. To prevent electric shock, do not use a polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
Diagram Description: Shows the 15V DC IN port on the subwoofer and the connection of the external 15V DC power supply.
Speaker Setup and Placement
Attaching The Stands
Make sure that the speaker wire is attached to the satellites before you attach the stands to the satellites. For desktop applications, attach the satellites to their stands by inserting each stand into the slot in the back of each satellite cube (see diagram E).
Diagram Description: Illustrates attaching the speaker wire and then the stand to a satellite speaker.
Speaker Placement
Place the satellites, which are magnetically shielded, on the small stands to either side of the monitor, aimed straight ahead. Do not angle them inward to fire directly at you. The satellites may also be attached to the sides of the monitor with the hook and loop strips provided (see diagram G). Ensure a clear line of sight from your listening position to the satellites.
Place the subwoofer on the floor under your desk or workstation, back against the wall. Do not place it up on the work surface or a shelf, which could result in disappointing bass performance. The subwoofer is not magnetically shielded and must be at least 18 inches (approx. 45 cm) from the monitor to prevent distortion of the picture.
The ear cannot localize low bass, which is why the subwoofer can go on the floor, out of sight. The bass port (the hole on the side of the control panel) must be at least 2 inches (approx. 5 cm) from the nearest surface.
If you cannot place the woofer on the floor against a wall as shown, the bass level control will compensate. Try turning it up if you place the subwoofer up on a shelf, where it is away from the acoustic support that the floor and wall give low bass. On the other hand, if the subwoofer sits in a corner on the floor, it may sound bass-heavy. In this case, try turning the bass level control down.
Set the bass level control for best bass balance, then forget it. It is not intended to be adjusted regularly to compensate for differences in recordings.
Diagram Description: Shows typical speaker placement with satellites on stands beside a monitor, and the subwoofer placed on the floor behind a desk. Another diagram illustrates the subwoofer's bass port clearance requirement.
Mounting the Satellites
To the monitor: To mount the satellites to the side of a monitor, use two of the self-adhesive "hook and loop" fasteners per satellite (see diagram G).
To the wall: To wall-mount the satellites on structurally strong surfaces (a wall stud or wood paneling), screw the M5x25mm screws into the material. Allow their heads to protrude about ½ inch to fit into the keyhole slots on the back of each cube (see diagram H). The plastic anchors supplied will be needed to secure the screw in most wall surfaces. If so, drill ¼-inch holes in the wall, then tap the anchors into the holes until they are flush with the wall. Then screw the screws into the anchors until they protrude about ½ inch.
Be sure to apply the stick-on rubber feet to the back of the satellite cubes. This assures an acoustically secure installation.
Diagram Description: Diagram G shows how to attach satellites to a monitor using hook-and-loop fasteners. Diagram H illustrates wall mounting, showing screws, anchors, and the keyhole slot on the satellite.
Specifications and Performance
Specifications
SoundWorks Digital Three-Channel Amplifier
- Satellite amplifier: 8 watts RMS per channel
- Subwoofer amplifier: 22 watts RMS
These specifications apply to SoundWorks Digital operating from the supplied 15V DC power adapter.
Playback Levels
This speaker system is intended for individual or small group listening and will achieve surprisingly high output levels. However, playing the system continuously at overly loud, distorted levels on heavy-bass program material may cause its internal fuse to blow.
The fuse can be replaced only by a qualified representative. To avoid this inconvenience and a possible non-warranty repair charge, reduce the playback volume when the system shows obvious signs of stress—that is, when it sounds "raspy," "fuzzy," and/or "muddy."
Controlling Noise and Distortion (Analog Inputs Only)
Due to the high sensitivity of SoundWorks Digital's analog inputs, some program sources will send audible levels of background hum and hiss through to the speakers. In this case, if the signal source has an output level control (on-screen control for a computer or variable audio output for a TV or CD/tape player), use one of the following approaches:
- Use a digital output if one is present.
- Reduce the setting of the volume control until hum or hiss is reduced to an unnoticeable level. Use the signal source to control the output level.
- Set the signal source's volume control to a high setting (70% or higher) and use the volume control to vary output.
Some PC sound cards have an output control on the card. Trial and error may be necessary to achieve the right setting of this control. Too low a setting could cause background noise. Too high a setting may cause distortion.
Keep in mind that SoundWorks Digital has sonic fidelity sufficient to reveal noise and distortion inherent in many digital sound processors. You may not have noticed these imperfections before, even with so-called "CD-equivalent" cards. Background noise present in a few, fixed-level signal sources may be audible when the volume control is set to a high level and program material is silent or playing at a low level. This behavior is intrinsic to the fixed-level signal source and is not the fault of the speakers.
1-Year Limited Warranty
To the original purchaser, Cambridge SoundWorks, Inc. warrants the speaker system to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase. With respect to defects, Cambridge SoundWorks will, at its option, replace the product or repair the defect in the product with no charge to the original purchaser for parts or labor.
This warranty does not extend to any defect, malfunction, or failure caused by misuse, abuse, accident, faulty hookup, defective associated equipment, or use of the speaker with equipment for which it is not intended.
This warranty is valid only when the speaker is returned to the retailer where the SoundWorks was purchased. This is the sole and expressed warranty, in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, of merchantability, fitness for purpose, or otherwise. In no event shall Cambridge SoundWorks be liable for incidental or consequential damages or have any liability with respect to defects other than the obligations set forth above.
To ensure warranty coverage, it is incumbent upon the original purchaser to inform the retailer where the SoundWorks was purchased of the defect within the warranty period. The only acceptable method of establishing warranty status is a copy of the original proof of purchase indicating the customer's name and purchase date.
Technical Support
Inside U.S.A., Canada and Latin America
Creative Labs Inc. Technical Support
If you need technical assistance, call 1-405-742-6622. Operating hours (Central Times): Mon-Sat: 8:00 A.M.-10:00 P.M. and Sun: Noon-8:00 P.M.
You can also send a fax at 1-405-742-6633 or write to:
Technical Support
Creative Labs, Inc.
1523 Cimarron Plaza
Stillwater, OK 74075
To reach Creative Technical support via the Internet, visit our technical support web site at http://www.creativehelp.com. Customer Service can be reached by phone at 1-800-998-1000, Monday-Friday, 8:00 A.M.-7:00 P.M. Central Time.
Faxback information is available by calling 1-405-372-5227.
Inside Asia
Creative Technology Ltd. Technical Support
31 International Business Park,
Creative Resource, Singapore 609921
Tel: +65 8954100
Fax: +65 5696640
Operating hours (Singapore Time): Monday-Friday 9:00 A.M.–6:00 P.M.
Sat-Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
