Bowers & Wilkins CDA-2HD Distribution Amplifier

Key Features

• 2-channel amplification with 500 watts per channel for high-resolution audio.
• Engineered for seamless integration with Bowers & Wilkins installation speakers and subwoofers.
• Flexible configuration: Left/Right outputs can be bridged for a 1,000-watt mono output.
• Three power mode control options: ON, Auto Detect, or 12V Trigger.
• Robust protection features to prevent damage from overload, short circuits, or heat.
• Product Configuration page for customizable setup and complex DSP tuning.
• Audio Video Bridging (AVB) compatible for networked audio systems.

Note: Always check the Bowers & Wilkins website for the latest software updates.

*AVB functionality requires two or more Bowers & Wilkins CDA amplifiers (CDA-2HD or CDA-4D) connected to the same wired network with AVB-enabled network hardware.

Safety Precautions

CLASS 2 WIRING / CÂBLAGE DE CLASSE 2

Connecting speaker wires or input cables while the amplifier is powered can cause electrical shock and damage the unit. Always unplug the power cord before making connections.

Unit fuses should only be changed by qualified personnel. Ensure mains power is disconnected before accessing fuses.

1. Carton Contents

The CDA-2HD package includes:

• 1 x CDA-2HD Amplifier
• 2 x Rack-mount ears
• 1 x Link bracket
• 1 x Power cable
• 4 x Rack-mount ear screws (M5 x 8mm)
• 4 x Feet screws (M4 x 6mm)
• 4 x Feet
• 1 x Link bracket screw (M4 x 8mm)

Diagram 1: Carton Contents illustration shows the amplifier unit, rack ears, link bracket, power cable, and various screws and feet.

2. Installation

2.1 Rack Mounting

The CDA-2HD is designed for standard 19-inch equipment racks. Attach the provided rack mount ears using machine screws. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating. For mounting two CDA-2HD units, use the provided link bracket and shorter side of the ear mount.

Diagram 2: Illustrates single CDA-2HD rack mounting.

Diagram 3: Illustrates two CDA-2HD units mounted in a rack using the link bracket.

2.2 Foot Mounting

The amplifier can also be placed on a surface using the included feet and screws. Ensure sufficient ventilation space around the unit, especially when stacking or placing it near other equipment or cabinet sides.

Diagram 4: Shows the amplifier being fitted with its feet for surface mounting.

3. Controls and Connections

Rear Panel

Diagram 5: Rear Panel illustration details the following connections and controls:

1. Power input socket (IEC C14)
2. Reset button
3. Ethernet (RJ45) socket
4. 12 V trigger in / out
5. Digital inputs (RCA)
6. Analogue inputs (RCA)
7. Speaker outputs (SpeakOn connectors)

Front Panel

Diagram 6: Front Panel illustration shows:

1. Power LED
2. Ethernet LED
3. Zone status LEDs

3.1 Reset Button Functions

• Reboot: A single press of the reset button restarts the device. The LED will flash green during reboot.
• Reset: Press and hold the reset button for 5 seconds until the LED flashes green to reset all settings and saved presets.
• Factory Reset: Turn off the unit, then press and hold the reset button while turning on the AC power inlet switch. Hold for 10 seconds until the LED flashes green. Release the button to restart.

Note: Reboot and Reset functions can also be accessed via the Product Configuration Page.

4. Connecting

Ensure the power cord is unplugged before making any connections.

4.1 Connecting from Source

• Ethernet (Network Connection): Mandatory for setup and configuration.
• Audio Video Bridging (AVB) Connection: Connects to a wired network, making the amplifier visible to other AVB-enabled Bowers & Wilkins CDA devices. Refer to section 7.2.1 for setup.
• Analogue Input: Use for analogue audio sources. Diagram 8: Shows analogue RCA connections.
• Digital Input: Use for digital audio sources. Diagram 9: Shows digital RCA connections.

Diagram 7: Illustrates connecting the amplifier to a network via Ethernet.

4.2 Connecting to Speakers

The CDA-2HD supports stereo speaker connections via SpeakOn connectors. It also supports bridged-tied load configuration for increased power to a single speaker.

• Stereo Speakers: Connect speaker cables to the SpeakOn connector. Ensure correct polarity and do not connect common signal terminals together.
• Bridged-Tied Load Speakers: Select 'BRIDGE-TIED LOAD' in the product configuration page. Connect the speaker's positive terminal to the right channel's positive terminal (+) and the negative terminal to the left channel's negative terminal (-). The minimum load impedance in bridge mode is 8Ω.

Diagram 10: Shows single wiring for stereo speakers.

Diagram 11: Shows wiring for Bridged-Tied Load speakers.

Diagram 12: Illustrates the configuration options for speaker modes (Stereo/Mono/Bridged).

5. Setting Power Mode

The CDA-2HD offers three power modes, configurable via the Product Configuration Page:

• ON: The amplifier remains powered on continuously.
• AUTO DETECT: The amplifier powers on automatically when an audio signal is detected. It enters standby after 15 minutes of inactivity.
• 12V TRIGGER: The amplifier powers on when a 12V signal is detected at the 12V TRIGGER IN socket and powers off when the signal is removed. A 12V TRIGGER OUT is available for linking power control to other amplifiers.

Diagram 12: Shows the 12V Trigger connection.

Note: For initial setup, it is recommended to keep the POWER MODE set to ON to prevent accidental shutdowns.

6. Network Connection Instruction

The amplifier connects to your network via an RJ-45 Ethernet cable. Ensure the amplifier and your computer/tablet are on the same network.

1. The amplifier's default setting is DHCP ON.
2. Connect the amplifier to your router.
3. Turn on the amplifier.
4. Open a web browser and enter the amplifier's default network address in the format: http://[product name]-[serial number].local (e.g., http://cda-2hd_XXXX-xxxxxxx.local). This will open the Product Configuration Page.

Alternatively, IP addresses can be found via your router's configuration page.

Diagram 13: Shows the typical network address format in a web browser.

Diagram 14: Illustrates the product label containing the serial number.

7. Configuring Your Amplifier (via Product Configuration Page)

7.1 Basic Settings

The Information section displays non-editable details like model, firmware version, and serial number. Users can input custom names for the amplifier, customer, dealer, and installer, along with the installation date.

The Network section allows management of DHCP settings, IP addresses, and subnet modes. Saving network details is crucial after changes.

The Power section lets users configure POWER MODE (ON, AUTO DETECT, 12V TRIGGER), POWER MODE DELAY (0-20 seconds), and Wake On LAN (recommended ON for control system integration).

Notifications allow users to set up email alerts for specific events like temperature or volume thresholds.

Settings Management provides options to Import/Restore settings, Export settings, Lock/Unlock settings with a PIN, Print all settings, Reboot the device, and Reset all user settings to default.

Firmware Update allows updating the firmware by uploading a .bin file from the Bowers & Wilkins website.

7.1.2 Identification Mode

Enabling this mode causes the front power LED to flash white, aiding in identifying the amplifier during programming.

7.1.3 Network

DHCP can be enabled or disabled. When DHCP is OFF, a static IP address can be assigned. Changes to IP address or Subnet Mask require re-entering the new IP address in the browser to access the web portal.

7.1.4 Power Mode

• ON: Amplifier is always on.
• AUTO DETECT: Powers on with an audio signal, standby after 15 minutes of no signal.
• 12V TRIGGER: Powers on/off via a 12V signal.

Auto On Delay: Set a delay (0-20 seconds) for sequential amplifier power-on.

Wake On Lan: Recommended to keep ON for remote control. If OFF, IP commands are unavailable.

7.1.5 Notifications

Configure email alerts for events such as temperature exceeding 84°C, volume exceeding 100%, or loss of network connection.

7.1.6 Settings Management

• Import/Restore & Export Settings: Save and load configuration profiles, useful for multiple amplifier setups.
• Update Firmware: Upload the latest firmware file from the Bowers & Wilkins website.
• Lock Settings: Prevent unauthorized changes by setting a PIN.
• Print Settings: Generate a printable list of all current settings.
• Reboot: Restart the amplifier.
• Reset: Reset all user settings and presets to factory defaults.

7.2 Input / Output Settings

This section configures input routing, trim levels, volume parameters, and mode of use.

7.2.1 Input Source Setup

Input Level Meter: Displays the input signal level.

Input Source: Select from Analogue, Digital, or AVB inputs. AVB sources are available from other networked CDA amplifiers.

Input Name: Customize names for each input channel.

Trim Level: Adjust input levels from -5 dB to +19 dB in 1 dB increments to balance input signals.

Diagram 18: Shows input source selection and trim level adjustment.

7.2.2 Mode of Use

Defines the speaker configuration:

• Speaker Mode: Two channels drive two speakers in stereo or mono.
• Bridge-Tied Load Mode: Two channels are bridged for increased power to a single speaker.

Diagram 19: Illustrates Speaker Mode setup.

Diagram 20: Illustrates Bridge-Tied Load Mode setup.

7.2.3 Output Setup

Output Level Meter: Monitors the audio output level to speakers.

Output Name: Customize names for each output channel.

Speaker: Select the connected Bowers & Wilkins product model or a User Preset for non-Bowers & Wilkins products.

Stereo / Mono: Set each channel for Stereo or Mono operation. Mono combines Left and Right inputs.

Amplifier Mode: Bridge two channels for increased power (refer to section 4.2 for connection details).

7.2.4 Zone

The CDA-2HD is a single-zone product. Zone settings group Output Volume, Turn On Volume, and Mute controls.

7.2.5 Output Volume

• Output Volume: Main volume control for each channel. Levels change simultaneously for channels in the same Output Zone.
• Turn On Volume: Ensures consistent volume upon power restoration. Levels change simultaneously for channels in the same Output Zone.
• Maximum Volume: Caps the Output Volume and Turn On Volume. This setting is independent of Output Zone.
• Mute: Silences the audio output. Mute status changes simultaneously for channels in the same Output Zone.

Diagram 21: Shows zone and output volume settings.

7.3 DSP Configuration

Fine-tune audio settings like Phase, Delay, and Tone Control for Bowers & Wilkins products. For third-party products, use User Presets and an 8-band parametric EQ.

7.3.1 Output Information

Displays output selections made in the Output Setup page.

7.3.2 Test Signal

The CDA-2HD includes a pink noise generator for speaker measurement. Adjust the test signal Volume and toggle ON/OFF.

7.3.3 Import, Export & Copy Presets

Manage presets for Bowers & Wilkins products or User Presets:

• All Presets: Import or export all saved presets.
• Single Preset: Import or export individual presets.
• Copy Presets: Duplicate presets between locations.
• Rename Presets: Customize preset names.

7.3.4.a DSP Settings for Bowers & Wilkins Products

Adjust settings per output channel:

• Speaker: Displays the selected product model.
• Listening Mode: Equalization options for Music or Movie (for compatible subwoofers).
• Phase: Invert phase at 180° (default OFF).
• Delay: Set delay in milliseconds, feet, or meters (0.01ms to 20ms range).
• Tone Control: Adjust Bass and Treble.

Diagram 22: Shows output information and test signal settings.

Diagram 23: Illustrates preset management options.

Diagram 24: Shows DSP settings interface.

Diagram 25: Shows DSP control interface.

7.3.4.b DSP Settings for Third-Party Products

Utilize an 8-band parametric EQ for fine-tuning:

• EQ On/Off: Activate/deactivate frequency bands.
• Frequency Hz: Set center frequency (20 Hz - 20 kHz).
• EQ - Q: Control bandwidth (lower Q = wider, higher Q = narrower).
• EQ Gain: Adjust gain at selected frequencies.
• Filter Type: Parametric, High Shelf, or Low Shelf.
• Crossover: Apply High Pass (HP) or Low Pass (LP) filters.
• Frequency: Set crossover frequency point.
• Filter Order (dB/Oct): Select filter slope (-6 dB to -24 dB/Octave or Off).
• Save / Reset: Apply or reset EQ and Crossover configurations.
• Phase: Invert phase at 180° (default OFF).
• Delay: Set delay in milliseconds, feet, or meters.

Diagram 26: Shows EQ graph and parameter settings for third-party products.

Diagram 27: Details EQ settings, phase, delay, and crossover options.

8. LED Indicators

• Power LED: Dark/unlit (Off), Dim white (Standby), White (On), Red (Fault).
• Zone Status LED: Dark/unlit (Off/No Signal/PSU Fault), White (On and Signal Present), Red (Zone Fault).
• Network Status LED: White (Network Present), Red (Network Error).

Diagram 28: Illustrates the front panel with LED indicators.

9. Support

For further assistance, visit the Bowers & Wilkins support site at www.bowerswilkins.com/support.

10. Specifications

Audio Specifications

• Load Impedance Range: >3Ω per channel (>6Ω in bridge mode)
• Output Power per channel (non-clipped): 250W into 8Ω, 500W into 4Ω
• Output Power bridge mode (non-clipped): 1,000W into 8Ω
• Output Power total (all channels): 1,000W short term, >250W continuous
• DC Offset Voltage: <50mV
• Frequency Response (-3dB): <10Hz to >30kHz, any load impedance
• Frequency Response Accuracy (20Hz-20kHz): +/-1dB
• Dynamic Range: >85dB A-Weighted
• THD+N (1kHz, 500W, 4Ω): less than 1%
• Voltage Gain: 21dB to 45dB, adjustable
• Input Impedance: 10KΩ
• Maximum Input Voltage: 4 Vrms
• Signal Sense Threshold: 2.5mV
• Wake-up Time: <0.2s (other zones active), <2s (all zones inactive)
• Turn-off Time: 15 minutes from last signal detected
• 12V Trigger Input Threshold: typically 3V (recommended 5-15V)

Controls & Indicators

Front Panel: Power LED, Ethernet LED, Zone status LEDs.

Rear Panel: Power input socket, Reset button, Ethernet socket, 12V trigger in/out, Digital inputs, Analogue inputs, Speaker outputs.

Connectors

• Input: 1 x RCA (pair) Analogue line in, 1 x RCA Digital line in, 1 x Ethernet.
• Output: 1 x SpeakOn.
• 12V Trigger Control: 1 x 3.5mm jack - 12V trigger IN, 1 x 3.5mm jack - 12V trigger OUT (Max 100mA pass-through).

Power

• Power Consumption: 1.7 BTU/hr (standby), 150 BTU/hr (idle), 850 BTU/hr (max).
• AC Supply: 100-240V 50/60Hz.
• AC Inlet: IEC C14, switched.

Thermal

Thermal Dissipation: Not specified.

Dimensions

• Height: 85mm (3.4 in) 1U [100mm (3.9 in) plus feet]
• Width: 218mm (8.6 in)
• Depth: 323mm (12.7 in)
• Net Weight: 3.4 kg (7.5 lb)

Environmental Information

This product complies with international directives such as RoHS, REACH, and WEEE. Consult local authorities for proper recycling or disposal guidance.