Welcome to Bowers & Wilkins and Zeppelin

Introducing the Zeppelin

Zeppelin is a network-connected, wireless active speaker that provides extremely high performance. It is primarily intended to be configured and controlled using the Bowers & Wilkins Music App, available for both iOS and Android devices. Some commonly used control functions are also available via touch buttons on the Zeppelin's rear panel. Initial setup and configuration are only possible using the Bowers & Wilkins Music App.

Key Features:

• Listen to audio from streaming services like Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify, Apple Music, and many others.
• Listen to audio over Bluetooth from compatible Bluetooth source devices.
• Listen to audio playing anywhere in your home on any compatible Bowers & Wilkins Wireless speaker connected to your home network.

App Requirements:

The Bowers & Wilkins Music App is required to connect your Zeppelin to your home network and to establish connections with other Formation products. The app also provides control and configuration functions. Please download and install the Bowers & Wilkins Music App on your iOS or Android device. The app requires iOS 11.4 or later, or Android V8.1 or later. Ensure Bluetooth and WiFi services are enabled on your device. You will also need your WiFi network password.

Note: Location Services must be enabled on Android devices during setup. This is because Formation products use a low power form of Bluetooth (BT-LE) for service communication, which on Android devices is only switched on when Location Services are enabled. Bowers & Wilkins does not use location services data for marketing purposes.

1. Contents

The Zeppelin package includes:

• Zeppelin speaker
• Power cable
• Literature pack

2. Installing Your Zeppelin

Your Zeppelin requires a mains power supply and should be located within reach of a mains socket. For a wired network connection, ensure it is within reach of an appropriate network (Ethernet) cable and use a USB-C to Ethernet adaptor.

The Zeppelin can be placed on a shelf, table, or furniture unit, or wall-mounted using a dedicated accessory bracket. Ensure any surface or bracket can support the weight, as flimsy or resonant panels may diminish audio performance.

Note: If wall-mounting, follow the bracket's instructions carefully. For uncertain wall suitability or installation capability, seek professional help. Stud-work and plasterboard walls may not provide adequate support.

Placement Considerations: Like most speakers, the Zeppelin radiates sound to the sides and rear. Positioning it close to room boundaries or in a corner may overemphasise bass. If bass is too prominent, try repositioning the speaker or adjusting the bass level via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App Settings menu.

2.1 Connections

In addition to a mains power socket, the Zeppelin has a USB-C connection for service. A wired (Ethernet) connection is possible using an Ethernet-to-USB-C adaptor (not supplied). Ensure your Wi-Fi or wired LAN connection is to a certified telecommunications terminal equipment router.

2.2 Switching On and Off

With all connections made and the Bowers & Wilkins Music App installed, your Zeppelin is ready for setup. The Zeppelin has no mains power switch; it starts a short boot-up routine upon connection to mains power, which includes connecting to the network and streaming services. This process can take some time. The Multifunction button will flash white during boot-up and amber during network connection. An audio prompt will indicate completion.

When first switched on, an unused Zeppelin automatically enters setup mode, indicated by a slow amber pulse on the Multifunction button (see Diagram 1). It will appear in the Bowers & Wilkins Music App as available for setup.

Zeppelin manages its power consumption automatically and enters a power-saving mode after twenty minutes of inactivity. To switch off, simply disconnect from the mains power. Settings are retained without power.

3. Restarting / Rebooting

To restart a Zeppelin, briefly press and release the Reset button on the rear panel (see Diagram 1). This will reboot the speaker without affecting settings. You can also restart via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App Settings.

4. Factory Reset

To reset your Zeppelin to factory default settings, press and hold the Reset button for five seconds. The process is indicated by a red Multifunction button and an audio cue. On restart, the Zeppelin will enter setup mode, and all settings will be deleted.

5. Setting up on a Network

With your Zeppelin in setup mode (slow amber pulse on the Multifunction button), launch the Bowers & Wilkins Music App on your iOS or Android device. The app will guide you through the setup process.

Note: Zeppelin uses Bluetooth for initial setup. Keep the device and Zeppelin close during this process as Bluetooth signals can be interrupted.

You will need to create a Bowers & Wilkins Music App account. Sign in or create an account, inputting a username and password. Validate your email address via the link sent to you.

The app will search for products in setup mode and prompt you to start setup, or you can add a product manually via Settings > Your Devices > Add Product.

The setup process involves naming the 'Space' where your Zeppelin will be used. You can choose from suggested names or create your own. Confirm the space name by pressing the Multifunction button on the Zeppelin.

If using a wireless network, confirm your WiFi network and enter the password. If using a wired Ethernet connection with a USB-C to Ethernet adaptor, this step is bypassed.

Note: If you have other compatible Bowers & Wilkins products on your network, your Zeppelin may not require the WiFi password due to the Quick Connect function.

Once WiFi configuration and space selection are complete, your Zeppelin is ready for use and will play an audio prompt confirming successful setup.

Diagram 1: Zeppelin control panel and connectors

The diagram shows the Zeppelin with controls including Volume Up (+), Pause/Play, Multifunction, Power, and Reset buttons, along with a USB-C port.

6. Standalone Bluetooth Setup

You can use your Zeppelin over Bluetooth without a network connection. With the Zeppelin in setup mode (slow amber pulse), press and hold the Multifunction button for 5 seconds. The Zeppelin will play an audio prompt and the Multifunction button will flash blue, indicating Bluetooth pairing mode. Connect via your source device's Bluetooth menu; the Zeppelin will appear as 'Zeppelin'.

Note: In this configuration, the product cannot be set up onto a network. A factory reset is required to enable network setup.

The Zeppelin can be paired with multiple devices by holding the Multifunction button for 5 seconds. It supports pairing with up to eight devices. In Bluetooth-only mode, the downward-facing light remains on and cannot be controlled.

Note: Pairing mode times out after 2 minutes. Re-enter pairing mode by holding the Multifunction button.

7. Using Your Zeppelin

7.1 The Basics

Use your Zeppelin to play audio from streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Qobuz, and Tidal. Streaming can be done directly from the Bowers & Wilkins Music App, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth.

7.2 Spaces

'Spaces' are a core concept of the Formation product family, representing a room or area where you listen to music. A Zeppelin cannot be used with any other device in the same space.

7.3 Playing Audio via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App

After connecting your product and enabling a streaming service in the app, you can browse and play music. If you have a single space, music plays there automatically. With multiple spaces, a list of available spaces will appear when you click 'Play', allowing you to select where the audio plays.

7.4 Playing Audio via Spotify Connect

Use your phone, tablet, or computer as a remote control for Spotify. Learn more at spotify.com/connect.

7.5 Playing Audio via AirPlay

AirPlay enables audio streaming from Apple mobile, laptop, or desktop devices over a network to AirPlay-compatible speakers like the Zeppelin. AirPlay-enabled apps display the AirPlay icon. Tap the icon to select content and choose your Zeppelin from the list of available devices.

7.6 Playing Audio via Bluetooth

Bluetooth allows audio streaming from mobile, laptop, or desktop devices to your Zeppelin via a wireless connection. Pair your device to the Zeppelin through the Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Settings > select space > Pair new device). Then, go to your device's Bluetooth menu to pair with the Zeppelin.

Note: Pairing mode times out after 2 minutes. Repeat steps to re-enter pairing mode.

8. Bowers & Wilkins Music App

The app features four main navigation icons: Browse, Library, Search, and Settings. The active page is indicated by a yellow icon.

8.1 Browse

The Browse page displays content in a ribbon view, organized by recommended playlists, recently played music, and curated playlists. You can also scroll down to browse music from linked streaming services.

Note: Recommendations are based on liked genres, artists, albums, and tracks. Liking content improves recommendations and is linked to your Bowers & Wilkins account, not your streaming service.

8.2 Library

The Library page aggregates all liked material from the Bowers & Wilkins Music App and streaming services. You can search by music, podcasts, and radio. Content liked in native streaming apps may not appear immediately in the Bowers & Wilkins Library.

8.3 Search

Use the search function to find music across all linked streaming services.

8.4 Settings

The Settings pages allow configuration of multiple products:

• Your Spaces: Configure individual devices within defined spaces.
• Your Account: Modify account details and link music services.
• Your Products: Trigger available software updates for your products.

8.5 Linking Streaming Services

Link streaming services like Qobuz, Tidal, and Deezer in Settings via 'Link Services' in 'Your Account'. Follow the on-screen instructions.

8.6 Player View

When audio is playing, you can control volume, play/pause, and skip tracks. The Player view can be minimized to the bottom of the screen or maximized by tapping it.

9. Software Update

Zeppelin receives software updates for reliability, new functions, and features. A tag on the Settings icon indicates available updates. Tapping it initiates an update for all network products requiring one.

10. Audio Adjustments

Adjust bass and treble settings (-6dB to +6dB) via Settings to optimize audio performance based on placement. These settings are stored by the Zeppelin but reset after a factory reset.

11. Downward-Facing LED

The Zeppelin features a downward-facing LED light, adjustable via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Settings > select space > select device). The light can be enabled/disabled, and brightness adjusted. It illuminates when the Zeppelin is in use and turns off after 20 minutes of inactivity.

12. Amazon Alexa

The Zeppelin includes the Amazon Alexa voice assistant. Enable this feature in the app (Settings > select space > select device > Enable Amazon Alexa). Link your Amazon account. To use Alexa, say 'Alexa' or press the Voice Service button. Pressing and holding the Voice Service button mutes the Alexa microphones.

13. Zeppelin Controls

The rear panel buttons provide play/pause, volume adjustment, and voice service control.

• Play/Pause: Toggles audio playback.
• Volume Up/Down (+/-): Adjusts volume. Holding the buttons continuously adjusts volume.

Diagram 2: Multifunction indicator illuminations

The Multifunction button's illumination indicates various operational states:

14. Cleaning

Wipe the Zeppelin's top surface with a clean, lint-free cloth and brush the grille with a soft brush. If using cleaning fluid, apply it to the cloth, not directly to the Zeppelin. Test a small area first. Avoid abrasive products or those containing acid, alkali, or antibacterial agents.

15. Support

For further assistance, visit the support site: www.bowerswilkins.com/support.

16. Environmental Information

This product automatically manages its power state. When connected to a network and not in use, power consumption is automatically reduced to below 2 watts.

This product complies with international directives, including RoHS, REACH, and WEEE. Consult your local waste disposal authority for recycling and disposal guidance.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Bowers & Wilkins products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. This warranty complements national or regional legal obligations and does not affect your statutory rights.

Eligibility for Warranty Claim:

• Must be the original purchaser of a genuine Bowers & Wilkins product.
• Proof of purchase is required.
• Defects must arise from normal domestic installation and use within the warranty period.

Warranty Exclusions:

• Misuse, accident, neglect, improper care, electrical fluctuations, incorrect software upgrades, incorrect assembly/installation, unauthorized modifications or repairs.
• Appearance items like cabinetry marks or damage.
• Products with defaced or removed serial numbers.
• Claims made more than 21 days after the defect first appears.

Note: Bowers & Wilkins or its authorized service center may charge for labor, parts, or transport costs incurred if a claim is deemed invalid or based on misleading information.

How to Claim:

1. Attach proof of purchase and complete details on the provided card.
2. Contact Bowers & Wilkins by telephone or email for contact details.
3. Deliver the product to the nominated Authorised Service Centre.

Note: You bear any expense incurred in claiming this warranty.

Australian Consumer Law: Goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. Goods are also entitled to be repaired or replaced if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

Warranty Periods:

Contact Information (Australia):

Bowers & Wilkins Australia Pty Ltd.
Suite 303, 754 Pacific Highway, Chatswood,
2067 New South Wales, Australia
Tel: +61 (2) 9196 8990
info-au@bowerswilkins.com