Danley TH/DBH Series Owner's Manual

Section 1: Your New Subwoofer

1.1 Unpacking: For most Danley Sound Labs products, it is recommended that unpacking be done by two or more people. Refer to the spec sheet for product weight. Remove tape and open top flaps. Lay the box on its side and slide the subwoofer out. Remove the packaging wrap.

1.2 Inspection: Check to ensure the product is not missing hardware of any kind. If any brackets or additional accessory hardware is missing, please contact Danley Sound Labs.

1.3 Shipping Damage: If your subwoofer appears to have been damaged in shipping, please take clear photographs and contact Danley Sound Labs immediately.

Section 2: Understanding the Difference

2.1 The Tapped Horn: The Danley Tapped Horn Subwoofer™ is a proprietary design that allows for the construction of physically small, highly efficient subwoofers, particularly at the low end of their frequency range. They are virtually linear within their passband. Subjectively, TH series subwoofers produce very deep bass from generally very small boxes. Unlike conventional horns, combining multiple TH boxes results in more output, but not significantly more extension.

2.2 The Danley Bass Horn: The DBH subwoofer is Danley's approach to a conventional design. DBH subs feature a front-loaded, folded horn design. DBH subs behave conventionally, meaning that adding boxes together not only increases output but also extends the low-frequency response downward.

Section 3: Initial Set Up

3.1 What Size Amplifier to Use: Selecting the right amplifier for your subwoofer depends on various factors and uses. The owner is ultimately responsible for choosing the best amplifier or amplifiers for the application. It is recommended to choose an amp rated no less than continuous and no higher than program. Please note that "Continuous" does not mean "forever"! Most subwoofer manufacturers, including Danley Sound Labs, adhere to AES standards for subwoofer power ratings.

3.2 Connecting to the Tapped Horn: Your Danley subwoofer has two NL4 ("speak-on") connectors on the rear panel. With the exception of the TH812, TH221, TH412, all TH series subwoofers are wired as passive. The NL4 connectors are wired in parallel.

Pinout: Passive

• 1+: Positive amp 1
• 1-: Negative amp 1
• 2+: Pass Through
• 2-: Pass Through

3.3 Switch Modes for TH812, TH221, TH412, and DBH218: These subwoofers can be operated in two modes: Bi-amp or passive. In passive mode, the connection is to pins +1 and -1. Pins +2 and -2 pass through from one NL4 to the other. In Bi-amp mode, connect one amplifier channel to pins 1+ and 1- of the NL4, and the other channel to pins 2+ and 2-. If a four-conductor cable is not available, you may use two runs of two-conductor cable.

Diagram Description: The diagrams illustrate the wiring configurations for TH812, TH412, TH221, and DBH218 subwoofers in both passive and bi-amp modes, showing connections to NL4 connectors and internal speaker configurations.

3.4 Impedance: In bi-amp mode, the average impedance of the woofers will be twice the passive mode impedance.

3.5 Rigging: If you have to ask how, you probably shouldn't be doing it!

Safety Precautions: Before attempting to rig or suspend Danley speakers, read and understand the following safety information.

Section 4: Operation

4.1 Acoustic Level Warning: Danley Sound Labs subwoofers can produce sound levels capable of causing permanent hearing damage from prolonged exposure. The higher the sound level, the less exposure is needed to cause such damage. Avoid prolonged exposure to high sound levels from the subwoofer. Some Tapped Horns can reach levels exceeding 140 dBSPL, which can cause permanent hearing loss. Users operating at these high sound pressure levels are strongly encouraged to use hearing protection. Danley Sound Labs accepts no liability for hearing damage resulting from the use of its subwoofers.

4.2 Operator Responsibility: It is the responsibility of the operator to maintain safe operating levels and to ensure that the audience is not harmed by excessive levels. The following table shows recommended exposure limits set by OSHA:

Table 1. OSHA's Permissible Noise Exposure Limits.

4.3 Aqua Tight Coating: The Aqua Tight Coating option provides a full two-layer fiberglass finish for maximum moisture resistance, along with a special polyurea coat bonded to the fiberglass exterior. It also includes two topcoat layers of UV-resistant color stabilizer, all stainless steel exterior fasteners, an acoustically transparent moisture barrier for the grille, waterproofing for driver cones, and sealant for the input plate, handles, or cabinet fixtures. The finish includes a powder-coated stainless steel grille, sealed, waterproof cable leads (12' length standard), and fully caulked external joints (except for the "weep" opening at the bottom of the grille).

If a repair is to be made on a loudspeaker with an "AT" finish, specific steps must be followed to ensure the speaker remains water-resistant. The caulking must be removed to access the grille and driver panels. Once the repair is finalized, the bolts must be coated with silicone, and the caulk must be replaced on all panels that were removed.

Section 5: Warranty on Danley Commercial Audio Products

Danley offers a 5-year warranty covering products purchased directly from dealers in the 50 US States and Canada, applicable only when the product has been installed and operated under normally accepted standards. The warranty covers product against defects in material or workmanship and begins on the date of purchase from an authorized Danley dealer.

Coverage: Danley will repair or replace the product or defective portion thereof under this warranty if it becomes defective, malfunctions, or otherwise fails to perform under normal use and service during the warranty term, at no charge for labor or materials. Repairs may utilize new or refurbished parts that meet or exceed Danley specifications. If Danley chooses to replace the product, the replacement may be a reconditioned unit. The buyer is responsible for any removal or reinstallation charges and shipping charges if the product requires shipment for warranty service. Danley will cover return shipping charges if the destination is within the warranted area. This warranty does not cover damage, deterioration (due to corrosive environment), or malfunction resulting from accident, negligence, misuse, abuse, improper installation or operation, repair or attempted repair by unauthorized personnel, altered serial numbers, power line surge or related electrical abnormalities, improper grounding, lightning damage, or acts of God, damage during shipment (claims must be presented to the carrier). This warranty only covers the original end-user purchaser.

To Obtain Warranty Service: Contact your authorized dealer or sound contractor for warranty claim instructions, or contact Danley directly at info@danleysoundlabs.com. Product requiring shipment must be packed securely and include an explanation of the problem along with a copy of the original bill of sale. No products will be accepted unless prepaid or prior arrangement with Danley has been made. All returns must be accompanied by a Return Authorization Number. If a returned product is found ineligible, repair costs will be charged to the owner, and the product will be repaired and returned upon receipt of payment.

Section 6: Contact Information

Danley products are represented and sold through a network of key representatives and approved dealers in the US/Canada/Mexico. International sales and service are handled through the corporate office.

Danley Sound Labs – Corporate Office
2196 Hilton Drive, Suite G, Gainesville, GA. 30501
Phone: (770)535-0204 or (877)419-5805
Fax: (678)928-4010
Email: info@danleysoundlabs.com

General Safety Information

IMPORTANT RIGGING SAFETY WARNING! The information in this section is compiled from recognized engineering data and is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be used without obtaining competent advice regarding its applicability to a specific circumstance. This information is not intended as a representation or warranty by Danley Sound Labs. Anyone using this information assumes all liability arising from such use.

Information presented herein is based on materials and practices common in North America and may not directly apply to other countries due to differing material dimensions, specifications, and/or local regulations. Users in other countries should consult appropriate engineering and regulatory authorities for specific guidelines.

Correct use of all hardware is required for secure system suspension. Careful calculations should always be performed to ensure that all components are used within their rated workload before the array is suspended. Never exceed maximum recommended load ratings.

Before suspending any speaker system, inspect all components (enclosure, rigging frames, pins, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion, missing, loose, or damaged parts that could reduce the strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend the speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken. Use only load-rated hardware when suspending Danley subwoofers.

Are You New to Rigging? If you are new to rigging, you should:

• Know the Rules for Safe Rigging.
• Attend a safe rigging seminar, such as those presented by professionals like Rigging Seminars or by Chain Motor Hoist manufacturers like Columbus McKinnon Corp.
• Meet and establish a relationship with a licensed mechanical or structural engineer. Ask questions instead of guessing.
• Meet and discuss this aspect of your business with your Insurance Agent.
• Research and understand the codes, practices, and requirements in the venues where you intend to operate your sound system.

General Hardware Information: All Danley subwoofers intended for flown applications are provided with 3/8 inch - #16 hardware. Any hardware used in an overhead suspension application must be load-rated for the intended use. This type of hardware is typically available from rigging supply houses, industrial supply catalogs, and specialized rigging distributors. Local hardware stores generally do not stock these products.

Attachment to Structures: A licensed Professional Engineer must approve the placement and method of attachment to structures prior to the installation of any overhead object. The following performance standards should be provided to the Professional Engineer for design purposes: Uniform Building Code as applicable, Municipal Building Code as applicable, Seismic Code as applicable. Installation of hardware and method of attachment must be carried out as specified by the Professional Engineer. Improper installation may result in damage, injury, or death.

Rigging Hardware Inspection & Maintenance: Suspension systems are mechanical devices and require regular inspection and routine maintenance to ensure proper functionality. Danley subwoofers must be inspected for fatigue at least annually. The inspection should include a visual survey of all corners and load-bearing surfaces for signs of cracking, water damage, de-lamination, or any other condition that may decrease the strength of the subwoofer enclosure. Accessory rigging hardware provided with or for Danley subwoofers must also be inspected for fatigue at least annually. This inspection should include a visual material survey for signs of corrosion, bending, or any other condition that may decrease the strength of the fastener. For other fittings, refer to the manufacturer's inspection and maintenance guidelines. Danley Sound Labs is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose or the misuse of this information. Furthermore, Danley Sound Labs is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding compliance with inspection and maintenance procedures or any other abuse. Prior to suspending the system, an expert, trained, and experienced in flying subwoofer systems should inspect all rigging parts and components.

General Warnings

The instructions on this page apply to Danley powered units.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Clean only with a dry cloth.
6. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
8. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
9. The power plug at the wall must remain accessible to be able to disconnect power from the apparatus.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as the power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
14. This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no object filled with liquid, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
15. This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective grounding connection (the third grounding prong).
16. If the loudspeaker is exposed to changes in temperature and humidity, internal condensation may develop. If powered up with such condensation, electronic failure could result. When exposed to environmental changes, allow the loudspeaker at least 30 minutes to acclimate to a new temperature before connecting to the AC mains and operating.
17. Danley Sound Labs loudspeakers can produce sound levels capable of causing permanent hearing damage from prolonged exposure. The higher the sound level, the less exposure needed to cause such damage. Avoid prolonged exposure to the high sound levels from the loudspeaker.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT EXPOSE THE APPARATUS TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING AND DO NOT PLACE OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS DRINKS, ON THE APPARATUS.

CAUTION: This product is energized as long as it is connected to the AC mains supply.

CAUTION: Allow at least six inches of free space all around the amplifier heat sink for sufficient ventilation.

Decibel Levels:

• 140 dB: Jet engine at takeoff
• 130 dB: Jackhammer
• 120 dB: Sandblasting
• 110 dB: Bulldozer
• 100 dB: Chainsaw
• 90 dB: Truck traffic
• 80 dB: Speaking voice
• 85 dB: Beginning of OSHA Regulations