AIR-Series

1 Overview

1.1 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a PreSonus^® AIR-series Active Loudspeaker. PreSonus Audio Electronics has designed AIR-series loudspeakers utilizing high-grade components to ensure optimum performance throughout the life of your PA system. AIR-series loudspeakers are active PA speaker systems that feature easy-to-use digital tuning functions. Compact and lightweight, they provide a clean, transparent sound and flexible tuning controls, making them an ideal solution for both mobile and install applications.

PreSonus Audio Electronics is committed to constant product improvement, and values customer suggestions. Contact PreSonus Audio Electronics with questions or comments regarding this product.

See Section 5.1 for troubleshooting information.

1.2 About This Manual

This manual covers hardware features and functions for full-range AIR-series loudspeakers (AIR10, AIR12, and AIR15) and for the companion AIR15s and AIR18s subwoofer. It is suggested that you use the manual to familiarize yourself with the features, applications, and connection procedures for your AIR-series loudspeakers before attempting setup and operation.

The features of the full-range models are largely the same, differing mainly in low-frequency driver configuration and specific technical specifications like weight and frequency response. The AIR15s and AIR18s share many features as well. Unless specified as "full-range," the term "loudspeaker" refers to both full-range models and subwoofers.

This manual includes Power User Tips highlighting distinctive aspects of your AIR-series loudspeaker and explaining various audio terms. An assortment of tutorials covering the basics of room acoustics and speaker placement can be found in the AIR-series Application Guide, available for download from www.presonus.com.

PreSonus is confident that you will enjoy your AIR-series loudspeakers!

1.3 Summary of AIR-Series Loudspeaker Features

1.3.1 Full-Range Models: AIR10, AIR12, and AIR15

• Easy-to-use DSP tunings
• Multi-angle enclosure for mains or monitor-wedge applications
• 1,200 watts of power
• Onboard mixer with two combo XLR and 1/4" inputs and one summed balanced output
• Defeatable front-panel LED
• Rugged plastic enclosures
• 35 mm pole sockets with 7.5° downward tilt
• M10 rigging points for suspended installation

1.3.2 Subwoofers: AIR15s and AIR18s

• 15" / 18" woofer with 3" voice coil
• Polarity invert function
• Fully variable lowpass filter for setting upper frequency limit
• Easy cardioid array presets
• 1,200 watts of Class D power
• Stereo combo XLR and 1/4" inputs with direct outputs
• Defeatable front-panel LED
• Rugged, texture-painted birch enclosures

1.4 What is in the Box

In addition to this manual, your AIR package contains:

• (1) AIR10, AIR12, AIR15, AIR15s, or AIR18s loudspeaker
• (1) IEC power cable

Information on correct installation, creating subwoofer arrays, and more can be found in the AIR-series Loudspeaker Application Guide, available for download from your My PreSonus user account.

General rules of thumb:

• Always ensure loudspeakers are powered off when making connections.
• Avoid clipping inputs; watch for the LIMIT alert on the loudspeaker's display, which indicates digital distortion.

Power on your PA and studio equipment in this order: Sound sources > Mixer > AIR-series loudspeakers. Power down in reverse order.

The following level-setting tutorials cover best practices for setting levels.

NOTE: Please review the AIR-series Application Guide at PreSonus.com for complete safety information regarding flown installations.

2 Getting Started

2.1 Level-Setting Procedure: AIR10, AIR12, and AIR15

1. With the power switch off, connect the IEC plug to the loudspeaker's IEC socket and plug into a grounded AC outlet or surge protector.
2. Turn all level knobs fully counterclockwise to the lowest position.
3. Connect your microphone or line-level source to either or both inputs (XLR or 1/4" TRS).
4. Power on your line-level source.
5. Power on your AIR-series loudspeaker.
6. While speaking into a microphone or playing audio, turn the input level knob(s) until the display shows "Limit," then turn it down slightly below that level. Ensure you are not too close to the loudspeaker to avoid feedback if using a microphone. Leave unused input level knobs at their lowest position to minimize noise.
7. Turn the master output level control to achieve a comfortable listening volume.
8. If using one loudspeaker's input mixer for multiple sources or a mono system, connect the Mix Out to the line input of a second loudspeaker and repeat steps 1-8.

Power User Tip: Set the line input level on both loudspeakers to unity to maintain consistent output levels and simplify gain staging.

2.2 Level-Setting Procedure: AIR15s and AIR18s

1. With the power switch off, connect the IEC plug to each loudspeaker and plug into a grounded AC outlet or surge protector.
2. Turn the level knobs on your full-range loudspeakers fully counterclockwise.
3. Turn the Output level knob on your AIR-series subwoofer counterclockwise.
4. Connect your line-level source (e.g., a StudioLive mixer) to the Line inputs (XLR / 1/4" TRS combo jacks). For stereo sources, connect the left side to Input 1 and the right side to Input 2.
5. Connect Outputs 1 and 2 of your AIR-series subwoofer to the line inputs of the left and right full-range loudspeakers, respectively.
6. Power on your line-level source.
7. Power on your AIR-series subwoofer.
8. Power on your full-range loudspeakers.
9. Turn the line level knob on your full-range loudspeakers to the 12 o'clock position.
10. Turn the Master Volume knob on your AIR-series subwoofer to the 12 o'clock position.
11. With audio playing, turn the line level knob on your full-range loudspeakers until you achieve a comfortable listening volume.
12. Adjust the Output level control on your AIR-series subwoofer to balance the low-frequency content to taste.

Power User Tip: If more high-frequency output is needed, turn the Line level knob clockwise on the full-range loudspeakers. The level should typically be the same on both. Adjust the subwoofer's Output level control to balance the low-frequency content.

3 Hookup

3.1 Rear-Panel Connections and Controls

3.1.1 Full-Range Models: AIR10, AIR12, and AIR15

• MIC / LINE 1 & 2: Mic/Line input and level control. Features Class A microphone preamplifiers for dynamic microphones. The combo connection supports line-level signals. Use the adjacent knob to adjust gain. Proper adjustment minimizes noise and avoids distortion. Turn down channel trim or power down the loudspeaker before changing connections to prevent momentary audio spikes.
• Auxiliary Input: A stereo 1/8" connection for smartphones, tablets, and other consumer audio devices. All three input connections sum and can be used simultaneously.
• Mix Out: A balanced male XLR output used to send signals connected to the loudspeaker's inputs to other AIR-series loudspeakers. The Mix Out signal is the same as the signal sent to the loudspeaker's internal amplifier.
• Master Vol: Adjusts the overall level of the loudspeaker. Does not affect the Mix Output. Push this control to access tuning functions.

3.1.2 Subwoofers: AIR15s and AIR18s

• Line Inputs: Two line-level inputs (balanced XLR / 1/4" TRS combo jacks) for connecting to mixers. These inputs accept stereo signals; low-frequency content from both channels is summed before the lowpass filter. Either input can be used for mono signals or when sending specific low-frequency channels to the subwoofer.
• Outputs: Two line-level outputs (1 and 2) pass the stereo signal to full-range loudspeakers. The outputs are parallel to Inputs 1 and 2, respectively.
• Master Vol: Controls the master output level of the subwoofer's power amplifier. Does not affect the signal level from Outputs 1 and 2. Push to access DSP functions.

Power User Tip: A subwoofer can significantly alter the frequency response of a full-range system. Set the appropriate subwoofer level before adjusting system EQ. Refer to the AIR-series Application Guide for details on subwoofer arrays and crossover settings.

3.2 Power

• AC line connection: AIR-series loudspeakers have a universal power supply (100-250 VAC, 50/60 Hz) and are supplied with an appropriate IEC cord.
• WARNING: Do not remove the center grounding prong or use a ground-lift adapter to avoid electric shock.
• Power Switch: Turns the unit On/Off.
• Power User Tip: Ensure adequate line current is available when connecting multiple loudspeakers to the same circuit. Maximum current draw is listed in Section 4.1.
• Voltage Selection: Configured for the country of sale. Only change if using the loudspeaker in a country with a different standard voltage.
• Fuse: Fuse housing. The required fuse type is listed on the rear panel.

3.3 Onboard Tuning Features

Customize loudspeaker performance by accessing controls via the Master level encoder. Press to scroll through menu options, press again to select, and adjust.

3.3.1 Full-Range Models: AIR10, AIR12, and AIR15

• MODE: Selects application-specific presets: DJ (default), FOH, Enhance, Monitor, Speech.
• LOCATE: Adjusts performance for position: Stand (default), Suspend, Bracket.
• TREBLE: Adjusts high-frequency content (-10 dB to +10 dB, default 0 dB).
• BASS: Adjusts low-frequency content (-10 dB to +10 dB, default 0 dB).
• LED: Controls front-panel LED (On [default], Off, or Limit only).
• Brightness: Adjusts display brightness.
• Contrast: Adjusts display contrast.
• System Reset: Resets system settings to factory defaults.
• System Info: Displays system information.
• Exit: Returns to the Level screen, with an option to save changes.

3.3.2 Subwoofers: AIR15s and AIR18s

• MODE: Selects presets: Normal (default), Mo' Bass (boosts low-end).
• LOCATE: Adjusts performance for arrayed/non-arrayed use: Normal (default), Cardioid, End-Fire.
• DELAY: Adds delay time (default: None). Unit can be set to meters or feet.
• POLARITY: Reverses polarity of the summed input signal.
• SUB: Sets the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer. Set to the lowest frequency your full-range loudspeakers can reliably reproduce. Optimized settings are provided for each AIR-series full-range loudspeaker. Default is 100 Hz.
• LED: Controls front-panel LED (On [default], Off, or Limit only).
• Brightness: Adjusts display brightness.
• Contrast: Adjusts display contrast.
• System Reset: Resets system settings to factory defaults.
• System Info: Displays system information.
• Exit: Returns to the Level screen, with an option to save changes.

3.4 Hookup Diagram

A diagram illustrates connecting an AIR18s Subwoofer and AIR15 Loudspeakers to a STUDIOLIVE AR12 mixer, with signal flow indicated.

4 Technical Information

4.1 Specifications

4.1.1 Full-Range Models: AIR10, AIR12, and AIR15

4.1.2 Subwoofers: AIR15s and AIR18s

5 Troubleshooting and Warranty

5.1 Support and Troubleshooting

Check the PreSonus Web site (www.presonus.com) for software information, firmware updates, and support documentation, including FAQs. Online technical support is available at http://support.presonus.com. PreSonus telephone technical support is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time at 1-225-216-7887 for US customers. International customers should contact their national or regional distributor.

Loudspeaker won't turn on.

• Ensure the power cord is securely inserted into the IEC receptacle and the wall outlet.
• Confirm the AC outlet is functional using a known working device.

Loudspeaker is on but there's no sound.

• Verify the signal is active from an external source.
• Check that output faders on the mixing console are up and verify the output level using headphones.
• If another speaker in a stereo configuration is working, swap input cables to check for a faulty cable.
• If the loudspeaker stopped producing sound after high-level use, it may have entered thermal muting. Allow it to cool and ensure the heat sink has adequate ventilation.

Sound breaks up intermittently.

• Check input sources, using headphones if possible, to isolate the problem.
• Ensure all console outputs, input, and loop-thru connectors are securely plugged in. Try replacing cables with spares if the problem persists.

Loudspeaker has hum or buzz.

• Hum and buzz issues are often related to grounding. With the loudspeaker at low volume, disconnect input and output cables one at a time until the noise disappears. Try replacing the suspect cable.
• If using unbalanced 1/4" connectors with two-conductor cables, try balanced cables with TRS or XLR connectors.
• Plug loudspeakers and the external mixer into outlets that share a common ground. Use an extension cord to plug the external mixer into the same outlet as the loudspeaker if necessary, but avoid running AC cords bundled with audio signal cables.

5.2 Warranty

PreSonus's warranty obligations for this hardware product are limited as follows:

How Consumer Law Relates To This Warranty:

This warranty grants specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by location. PreSonus does not exclude, limit, or suspend other rights you may have, including those arising from non-conformity of a sales contract. Consult the laws of your country, province, or state for a full understanding of your rights.

PreSonus Products And EU Statutory Warranty:

What This Warranty Covers:

PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc. ("PreSonus") warrants defects in material and workmanship in PreSonus-branded products under normal use. This Limited Warranty applies only to hardware products manufactured by or for PreSonus that bear the PreSonus trademark, trade name, or logo.

Exclusions and Limitations:

This warranty does not cover:

1. Damage caused by accident, abuse, improper installation, failure to follow instructions, improper operation, rental, product modification, alteration, or neglect.
2. Damage from improper grounding, faulty wiring (AC and signal), faulty equipment, or connection to a voltage range outside published specifications.
3. Damage to drivers or diaphragm assemblies from burnt voice coils due to over/under driving or signal surge.
4. Damage occurring during shipment or improper handling.
5. Damage caused by unauthorized repair or service.
6. Products with altered, defaced, or removed serial numbers.
7. Products purchased from an unauthorized PreSonus dealer (unless transferable warranties apply and the customer and product are registered with PreSonus).

Who This Warranty Protects:

This Warranty protects only the original retail purchaser of the product (unless transferable warranties apply and the customer and product are registered with PreSonus).

How Long This Warranty Lasts:

The Warranty begins on the original date of purchase. The duration is as follows:

What PreSonus Will Do:

PreSonus will repair or replace, at its option, products covered by this warranty at no charge for labor or materials. The customer pays initial shipping charges; PreSonus pays return shipping charges.

How to Get Warranty Service (USA):

1. Maintain an active user account with PreSonus and ensure your hardware is registered. Register at http://www.presonus.com/registration.
2. Contact Technical Support at (225) 216-7887 or log a support ticket at http://support.presonus.com. All service requests require confirmation from the Tech Support Department.
3. A return authorization number and shipping instructions will be provided after confirmation.
4. Return the product in original packaging. PreSonus does not cover shipping damage to manufactured cases. Products not shipped in original packaging or a manufactured case may not receive warranty repair. The return shipping box may be generic if the original gift box is unavailable.

How to Get Warranty Service (outside of USA):

1. Maintain an active user account with PreSonus and ensure your hardware is registered. Register at http://www.presonus.com/registration.
2. Contact your region's Technical Support/Service Department via http://www.presonus.com/buy/international_distributors and follow their procedures.

Limitation of Implied Warranties:

Any implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so this limitation may not apply.

Exclusion of Damages:

PreSonus's liability for any defective product is limited to repair or replacement at PreSonus's option. PreSonus is not liable for damages based on inconvenience, loss of use, lost profits, lost savings, damage to other equipment, personal injury, or any other damages, whether incidental, consequential, or otherwise, even if PreSonus has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on damages, so these limitations may not apply.

For warranty service questions, contact PreSonus (USA) at +1 (225) 216-7887 or an authorized international distributor at: http://www.presonus.com/buy/international_distributors.

Product features, design, and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Added bonus: PreSonus' previously Top Secret recipe for... Redfish Couvillion

Ingredients:

• 1/4 C Vegetable oil
• 1/4 C flour
• 1 onion diced
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 green pepper diced
• 3 celery stalks diced
• 114 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 bottle light beer
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 lbs Redfish fillets

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a heavy saucepan or large skillet, heat oil on medium high and slowly add flour a tablespoon at a time to create a roux. Continue cooking the roux until it begins to brown, creating a dark blond roux.
2. Add garlic, onions, green pepper, and celery to roux.
3. Sauté vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Add tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and redfish. Cook for several minutes.
5. Slowly add beer and bring to a low boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes until redfish and vegetables are completely cooked, stirring occasionally. Break up redfish into bite size chunks and stir in. Add pepper or hot sauce to taste. Do not cover.
7. Serve over rice.

Serves 6-8

While not one of Southeast Louisiana's more famous dishes, Redfish Couvillion is a favorite way to serve our favorite Gulf fish. Also known as Reds or Red Drum, Redfish is not only fun to catch, it's also delicious!