Yamaha WX-021 MusicCast 20 Wireless Streaming Speaker

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions on the functions and operation of the WX-021 speaker. The included Quick Manual offers a concise guide for network connection and music playback from a mobile device.

Note:

• “Mobile device” refers to iOS and Android devices.
• “iPhone” in this text also includes iPod touch and iPad.
• Illustrations may differ from the actual product.
• App screens shown are from the iOS version of the MusicCast CONTROLLER app and may vary depending on the app or iOS version.

Symbols:

• Caution: Indicates information that may lead to damage or injury.
• Notice: Provides usage tips and supplementary information.
• See page: Indicates related information pages.

Package Contents

• Power Cord
• Anti-vibration Pads (for wall mounting)
• Quick Manual
• Safety Information

What You Can Do with This Unit

This unit is a wireless streaming speaker that can play audio from media servers (computers, NAS), internet radio, AirPlay, and Bluetooth devices on your home network. It delivers rich sound thanks to Yamaha's DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

Use the dedicated MusicCast CONTROLLER app for iOS/Android to operate the unit and build a home audio network.

Enjoying Music with MusicCast

Rich Sources for High-Quality Playback

• Bluetooth: Play music from Bluetooth-enabled devices.
• AirPlay: Stream music from Apple devices.
• This Unit: Connect to your network.
• Computer (NAS): Play music stored on your computer or Network Attached Storage.
• Internet Radio: Access a world of radio broadcasts.
• Streaming Services: Enjoy music from services like Spotify and Deezer.

Note: A wireless LAN router (access point) is required.

Two Units as Stereo Speakers

Use two WX-021 units as a stereo pair for an enhanced listening experience. You can also combine them with other Yamaha amplifiers for wireless surround sound.

Combine with MusicCast Compatible Devices

Play internet radio or music files simultaneously in different rooms. MusicCast fills your home with music.

Parts Identification

Top Panel

Indicators:

• Power Indicator (1): Lights up when the unit is powered on.
• Alarm Indicator (2): Lights up when an alarm is set.
• Wireless LAN Indicator (3): Lights up when connected to a wireless LAN router. Also lights up when using MusicCast Stereo/Surround features with a wired connection.
• Bluetooth Indicator (4): Lights up when a Bluetooth device is connected.

Operation Panel (Touch Sensors):

• 1, 2, 3 (5): For registering favorite sources.
• (Power)/CONNECT (6): Turns the unit on/off and initiates network connection.
• Volume Control (7): Adjusts the volume.
• Alarm Setting (8): Sets alarms.
• Play/Pause (9): Plays or pauses music.

Auto Standby: The unit enters standby mode after 20 minutes of inactivity. This can be disabled in "Option Settings" (P.21).

Rear Panel

• Wall Mounting Hole (1): For wall mounting.
• Wall Mounting Screw Hole (2): For securing the unit to a wall mount.
• NETWORK Terminal (3): For wired network connection.
• Service Terminal (4): For maintenance.
• Power Cord Receptacle (5): Connects the power cord.

Connecting to the Network using MusicCast CONTROLLER

1. Power Connection

Connect the power cord to the unit and then to a wall outlet.

Notice: The touch sensors will calibrate for approximately 5 seconds after connecting the power plug. Avoid touching the sensors during this period to prevent malfunction.

2. Network Connection

Follow steps 1-3. The unit supports both wireless and wired connections. A LAN cable is required for wired connections.

Notice:

• For wired connections, use a commercial STP network cable (straight cable, CAT-5 or higher) and connect it to the NETWORK terminal on the rear panel.
• Refer to the manual of your network device for internet connection details.
• Security software or network device settings (firewall) may prevent access to computers or internet radio. Adjust these settings if necessary.

Mobile Device App Setup

• Download the MusicCast CONTROLLER app from the App Store or Google Play.
• App Setup:
• Turn on the unit's power. The indicator will light up.
• Press and hold the "CONNECT" button on the unit for 5 seconds.
• Follow the on-screen instructions in the app to complete the setup.

Playback

Playing Music from Your Mobile Device

Play music files stored on your mobile device. The supported audio formats may vary by device. Refer to your mobile device's manual.

Playing Internet Radio

Listen to radio stations from around the world.

Streaming Services

Enjoy radio via radiko.jp and music from Spotify or Deezer.

Notice: Services are subject to change or termination without notice.

Using radiko.jp

radiko.jp allows you to listen to terrestrial radio broadcasts, including commercials, streamed over the internet. The available stations depend on your geographical area.

Notice: With radiko.jp premium (paid subscription), you can access radio stations nationwide. Sign up on the radiko.jp website and log in with your MusicCast CONTROLLER app credentials.

Playing Music from Your Computer or NAS

Play music files stored on a computer or NAS connected to your network.

Notice:

• Ensure the unit and your computer/NAS are connected to the same wireless LAN router (access point).
• Refer to "File Formats, Devices/Media" (P.31) for supported file formats.

1. Setting Up Music File Sharing:

To play music files from your computer (NAS), you need to enable media sharing. The following shows how to do this using Windows Media Player 12:

Follow the steps shown in the diagrams.

2. Playing Music Files:

Select the music files from the app to start playback.

Playing Music via AirPlay

Stream music from iTunes or iPhone using AirPlay.

Notice: Ensure your unit, computer, or iPhone is connected to the same wireless LAN router. If the AirPlay icon does not appear, check your network connection.

1. Start iTunes or the music playback screen on your iPhone. The AirPlay icon will appear if the unit is recognized.

2. Click or tap the AirPlay icon and select the unit as the audio output device.

3. Play Music Files: The unit will switch to AirPlay input, and playback will begin.

Playing Music via Bluetooth

Play audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices like mobile phones and digital music players.

Notice:

• If a Bluetooth device has been connected before, it will connect to the last connected device. To connect a different device, disconnect the current one.
• To disconnect Bluetooth from the unit, press and hold the ▶■ button on the operation panel for 3 seconds.

1. Connecting the Unit and Bluetooth Device:

Pair your Bluetooth device with the WX-021. Select the unit from the Bluetooth device's list.

2. Play Music Files: Once connected, the indicator will light up. Play music files from your Bluetooth device.

Notice: If connection fails, remove the unit from your Bluetooth device's pairing list and try again.

Combining with MusicCast Compatible Devices

Building a MusicCast Network

Register your unit with the MusicCast CONTROLLER app, then register other MusicCast compatible devices.

Notice: Refer to "Connecting to the Network using MusicCast CONTROLLER" (P.7) for instructions on registering the unit with the app.

1. Tap (Settings) in the app.

2. Follow the app instructions to register other MusicCast compatible devices.

Using the Unit as Stereo Speakers (MusicCast Stereo Function)

Use two WX-021 units as a stereo pair (left and right speakers). Ensure the unit's firmware is updated before using this feature (P.23 "Updating Firmware").

1. Register both units in the same location within the MusicCast CONTROLLER app (P.14 "Building a MusicCast Network").

2. Complete the setup according to the app screens.

Notice:

• In MusicCast Stereo, one unit acts as the master and the other as the slave. The slave unit can only perform basic functions like power on/off and volume adjustment.
• Only "Initialize Unit" and "Child Lock" options are available when using MusicCast Stereo or MusicCast Surround.
• If alarms are set, disable them before setting up MusicCast Stereo.

Connecting with a Subwoofer and Network

Connect to a MusicCast compatible network subwoofer for enhanced bass.

Register the unit and the network subwoofer in the same location within the MusicCast CONTROLLER app (P.7 "Connecting to the Network using MusicCast CONTROLLER").

Refer to the network subwoofer's manual for details.

If alarms are set, disable them before connecting the network subwoofer.

Using the Unit as Surround Speakers (MusicCast Surround Function)

Combine the WX-021 with a MusicCast compatible AV receiver or soundbar for multi-channel audio.

Update the firmware of the unit and MusicCast surround compatible devices before using this feature (P.23 "Updating Firmware"). Refer to the manuals of other MusicCast surround compatible devices for specific instructions.

1. Register the unit and the MusicCast surround compatible AV receiver or soundbar in the same location within the MusicCast CONTROLLER app (P.14 "Building a MusicCast Network").

2. Complete the setup according to the app screens.

Notice:

• When used as surround speakers, the following functions are not available: Favorites, Alarm, Volume control (volume is adjusted by the AV receiver/soundbar).
• Option settings other than "Initialize Unit" and "Child Lock" are not available.
• If alarms are set, disable them before setting up MusicCast Surround.

More Convenient Usage

Registering Favorites

Register your favorite songs or internet radio stations for easy recall. You can register up to 3 on the unit and 40 in the MusicCast CONTROLLER app.

Supported sources include:

• Music on computers (servers), internet radio, streaming services, and other network content.
• Bluetooth

Registering on the Unit:

1. Play the desired source in the MusicCast CONTROLLER app.

2. Press and hold one of the unit's 1-3 buttons for 3 seconds while playing. The indicator will blink 3 times to confirm registration.

Recalling Registered Sources: Touch one of the unit's 1-3 buttons.

Notice: The unit's 1-3 buttons correspond to the app's Favorites 1-3. Changes made on one will reflect on the other.

Using the Alarm Function

Set alarms to ring at a specific time. You can use network content or a beep sound.

Alarm Types:

• Music Only: Music plays at the set time, starting softly and gradually increasing in volume.
• Music and Beep: Music plays softly 3 minutes before the set time, gradually increasing in volume, followed by a beep sound at the set time.
• Beep Only: A beep sound plays at the set time.

Setting Alarms:

1. Set an alarm in the MusicCast CONTROLLER app. Select the room, tap "Settings", then "Alarm Settings". Follow the app's instructions.

Notice: If the selected network content is unavailable, the alarm may not sound. For reliable alarms, use the "Music and Beep" option.

Stopping the Alarm

When the alarm sounds, touch any button on the operation panel to stop it. Touching any button will activate snooze if set. To completely stop the alarm, press and hold any button for 5 seconds.

Notice: If the alarm is not stopped, it will automatically turn off after 60 minutes.

Snooze Function: Set snooze in the MusicCast CONTROLLER app. If snooze is active, touching a button to stop the alarm will restart it after 5 minutes. Press and hold any button for 5 seconds to stop it completely.

Notice: If "Music and Beep" is selected, touching a button will silence only the beep. Touching again will silence the music as well. The alarm will restart in 5 minutes. Press and hold any button for 5 seconds to stop it completely.

Using Child Lock

The Child Lock function restricts operation of the unit's panel buttons to prevent accidental use. It is disabled by default.

When Child Lock is enabled, only the following operations are possible via the panel:

• When the unit is in standby: Power on, Option Settings (P.21).
• When the unit is powered on: Set to standby, stop the ringing alarm.

Enabling/Disabling Child Lock:

1. When the unit is in standby, press and hold the and buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds. The indicator will blink 3 times to enable Child Lock.

2. Press and hold the ▶II button for 3 seconds.

Notice: If no operation is performed for 10 seconds after step 1, the unit will enter standby mode. Repeat step 1 to try again.

To disable Child Lock, repeat steps 1 and 2. The indicator will blink twice.

Option Settings

You can change various settings by entering Option Settings mode. With the unit in standby, press and hold the and buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds.

Notice:

• Option Settings mode will be cancelled if no operation is performed for 10 seconds.
• When using MusicCast Stereo or MusicCast Surround, or when a MusicCast compatible network subwoofer is connected, only "Initialize Unit" and "Child Lock" can be changed.

* Network Standby setting affects network functions during standby. Disabling it enables "Eco Standby" for reduced power consumption. In Eco Standby, the following functions are unavailable: Turning on the unit via the MusicCast CONTROLLER app, AirPlay, Bluetooth, MusicCast Stereo/Surround functions. Use the 山/CONNECT button to turn on the unit.

This unit features an advanced power-saving design, achieving network standby power consumption of 2W or less.

Updating Firmware

Firmware can be updated via the network when the unit is connected to the internet. You will be notified when new firmware is available via the MusicCast CONTROLLER app. Follow the app's instructions for updating.

Notice:

• Do not operate the unit or unplug the power cord/LAN cable during the update.
• Firmware updates may fail if the internet connection speed is insufficient or due to wireless network conditions.

Indicator Display During Update:

• Updating: All indicators blink or light up.
• Update Successful: Lights up. The unit will restart automatically.
• Update Failed: Lights up or blinks (varies by status). Unplug and re-plug the power cord to try updating again.

Sharing iPhone/iPod touch Settings for Network Connection

When you first turn on the unit after purchase or initialization, the indicator will blink, and the unit will start searching for iPhone or other iOS devices. You can then apply the iOS device's network settings to the unit for a simple network connection.

Notice:

• To enjoy all features, connect the unit to the network using the MusicCast CONTROLLER app (P.7).
• This function does not work when the unit is connected via LAN cable.
• Ensure your iOS device is connected to a wireless LAN router (access point).
• Requires iOS 7.1 or later.
• Network connection may not be possible if the wireless LAN router uses WEP encryption.

1. While the indicator is blinking, open the Wi-Fi settings screen on your iOS device and set the unit as an AirPlay speaker.

2. Select the wireless network (access point) to share with the unit. The unit will automatically connect to the selected network upon completion.

Mounting the Speaker on a Wall

The unit can be mounted on a wall. Attach the included anti-vibration pads to the four corners on the back to prevent sound vibrations from transferring to the wall.

Using Wall Mounting Holes:

1. Securely attach a tapping screw (3.5-4 mm diameter) to a wall or reinforcing material.

2. Hang the rear wall mounting holes onto the screw head. Ensure the screw head is firmly seated in the upper part of the wall mounting hole.

Caution:

• Ensure the mounting is secure. The company is not responsible for accidents due to improper installation. If you are unsure about the installation method, consult a professional installer.

Caution:

• The unit may fall, causing damage or injury. When mounting on a wall, observe the following precautions:
• Do not mount on walls made of easily peeling materials such as mortar or decorative plywood.
• Do not mount using nails or double-sided tape.
• Use a safety wire or other means to prevent the unit from falling.

Using Wall Mounting Screw Holes

You can attach the unit to commercially available wall mounts using the screw holes on the rear panel.

Caution:

• When using a wall mount, ensure it is compatible with this unit and rated for at least 4.5 kg to prevent falls or tipping.
• Refer to the wall mount's instruction manual for proper installation.
• When using a commercial mounting bracket, use a safety wire between the unit and the bracket to prevent falls.

Notice: Use wall mounts compatible with "Unified thread" screws, often used for camera tripods. Refer to the table below for specifications.

Unit Weight: 2.2 kg

Dimensions (W x H x D): 150 mm x 186 mm x 130 mm

Ensure the screw is inserted at least 5 mm deep.

Troubleshooting

General

Network

Bluetooth

File Formats, Devices/Media

File Formats

The following file formats are supported:

Notice:

• Supported formats may vary depending on the server software installed on your media server (computer/NAS). Refer to the server software's manual for details.
• DRM-protected files cannot be played.

AirPlay Devices

To control this AirPlay 2 compatible speaker, iOS 11.4 or later is required.

Bluetooth Devices

This unit supports Bluetooth devices compatible with the A2DP profile. Connection is not guaranteed for all Bluetooth devices.

Specifications

Player

General

This manual describes the product based on specifications at the time of publication. For the latest information, please download the latest manual from the Yamaha website.

Trademarks

MusicCast is a trademark or registered trademark of Yamaha Corporation.

The Yamaha Eco Label is a mark certified by Yamaha Group for products with excellent environmental performance.

Bluetooth® The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and Yamaha Corporation uses these marks under license. Other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.

Windows™ Windows is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

Internet Explorer, Windows Media Audio, and Windows Media Player are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

Android™ Google Play™ Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google LLC.

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED The Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo is a certification mark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.

About GPL/LGPL

This product uses code from open-source software licensed under GPL/LGPL. Users have the right to obtain, modify, and redistribute this software's source code according to the terms of the GPL/LGPL license. For an overview of the software covered by the GPL/LGPL license and how to obtain the source code, please visit our website:

https://download.yamaha.com/sourcecodes/musiccast/

radiko.jp

"Radiko" and the "radiko" logo are registered trademarks of radiko Co., Ltd.

Spotify

Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify Group. Spotify software is used under the following third-party software licenses:

www.spotify.com/connect/third-party-licenses

DEEZER

Deezer and the Deezer logo are registered trademarks of Deezer S.A. in France and other countries.

License Information

Third-party software used in this product can be confirmed at:

http://[Unit's IP Address*]/licenses.html

* The unit's IP address can be confirmed in the MusicCast CONTROLLER app.

Works with Apple AirPlay

Accessories with the Works with Apple badge are designed to work with the technology indicated by the badge and have been certified by the developer to meet Apple's performance standards.

Apple, AirPlay, Apple TV, Apple Watch, iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPhone, Lightning, and iTunes are trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

The iPhone trademark is used in Japan under license from Aiphone Co., Ltd.

App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

Contact Information

Yamaha AV Product Inquiries

Customer Communication Center
Audio & Visual Equipment Consultation Desk
Navi Dial (Nationwide): 0570-011-808
Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Excluding Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and designated center holidays)
Local call rates apply for landline calls. Call charges are confirmed via voice guidance.
If you cannot reach the above number, please call: TEL (053) 460-3409
https://jp.yamaha.com/support/

Yamaha AV Product Repair and Service Parts Inquiries

Yamaha Repair Consultation Center
Navi Dial (Nationwide): 0570-012-808
Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Excluding Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and designated center holidays)
Local call rates apply for landline calls. Call charges are confirmed via voice guidance.
If you cannot reach the above number, please call: TEL (053) 460-4830

Fax Inquiries

For residents of Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa:
Fax: (03) 5762-2125
Fax: (06) 6649-9340

Service Centers

Repair Drop-off Window
Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Excluding Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and designated center holidays)
* Inquiries are handled by the Yamaha Repair Consultation Center.

East Japan Service Center
〒143-0006 Tokyo, Ota-ku, Heiwajima 2-1-1, Keihin Truck Terminal Building A-5F, Building 14

FAX: (03) 5762-2125

West Japan Service Center
〒556-0011 Osaka, Naniwa-ku, Nambanaka 1-13-17, Namba Tsujimoto Building 7F

FAX: (06) 6649-9340

* Names, addresses, phone numbers, and URLs are subject to change without notice.

Warranty and After-Sales Service

For service requests or inquiries, please contact your dealer or the Yamaha Repair Consultation Center.

Warranty Period: Refer to the warranty card included with the product.

Repairs During Warranty Period: Repairs will be performed based on the terms stated in the warranty card. Please refer to the warranty card for details.

Out-of-Warranty Repairs: If the product's functionality can be maintained, repairs can be performed for a fee upon request.

Repair Cost Structure:

• Labor Charges: Fees for restoring the product to normal operating condition. Includes technician's labor, training, measurement equipment, and general administrative costs.
• Parts Charges: Cost of parts used for repair, including associated materials.
• On-site Visit Charges: Fees for dispatching a technician to the product's location. Parking fees may apply.

Minimum Period for Availability of Replacement Parts: The minimum period for availability of replacement parts is 8 years after the discontinuation of manufacturing. Replacement parts are components necessary to maintain the product's functionality.

When Requesting Service: Please provide detailed information about the product's condition. Also, provide the product model number and serial number.

* Model and serial numbers are indicated on the rear or bottom of the product.

Speaker Repair

Repairable parts for speakers include speaker units and other vibrating components, as well as electrical components. Repairs typically involve speaker unit replacement, which may result in slight differences in sound tone due to aging.

Replacement of Wear Parts

This unit uses wear parts (listed below) whose performance degrades over time with use. The rate of degradation varies depending on the usage environment and duration. For long-term stable use, we recommend periodic replacement of wear parts. Please consult your dealer or the Yamaha Repair Consultation Center for wear part replacement.

Examples of Wear Parts: Volume controls, switches, relays, connectors, lamps, belts, pinch rollers, magnetic heads, optical heads, motors, etc.

* This page provides general information for all AV products for safe usage.

Periodic Inspection

Is your product showing any of these symptoms?

• Power cord or plug is unusually hot.
• There is a burning smell.
• The power cord has deep scratches or is deformed.
• You feel a slight electric shock when touching the product.
• The product does not operate normally even after turning it on.
• Other abnormal symptoms or malfunctions.

Stop using the product immediately. For safety, unplug the power cord and request an inspection from your dealer. Please consult your dealer regarding inspection and repair costs.