Niles Audio SI-1230 Stereo Amplifier User Manual
Contents
1. Turn On Mode Switch O eerie BRIDGED MDE 4 Q MINIMUM 8 Q MINIMUM IN BRIDGED MODE TURN ON MODE BRIDGED 4 BRIDGED BRIDGED 4 BRIDGED AUDIO SENSE 3 30V CONSTANT Aes INPUT 12V CONTROL OUT 5 BRIDGED 6 D USE CH 6 D WHEN BRIDGED r o L m o9 L ols EER obs peek Lee 5 Lie 9 g ala a Oa Q 4 Q MINIMUM 8 Q MINIMUM IN BRIDGED MODE BRIDGED BRIDGED A JAM y 5 CLASS II WIRING 6 3 5 mm Jack for 12v DC Control Input 3 5 mm Jack for 12v DC Control Output 18 so wwntesauio com 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS FRONT AND REAR PANEL DETAILS R NILES cr Bicolor Status LED illuminates green when the amplifier circuitry has been turned on Power LED illuminates to confirm the amplifier is by the Turn On circuits and connected to a live AC power outlet and that the lluminates red to indicate master power switch is on activation of the amplifier s built in protection circuitry Bridging switches BusMatrix controls dedicated inputs and level controls for each channel Gold plated RCA jacks udigSrisbad California USA efthe FCC Rules Operation is subject to the following two conditions erence and 2 This device must accept any interference Serial Number q 9 BRIDGED 10 C USECH8 C USECH10 LI USE CH 12 WHEN O2. The front panel switch is a master or vacation power switch No matter which turn on mode you have selected the master power switch will turn off all circuitry including the sensing circuitry If you will not be using the amplifier for an extended period of time turn the master power switch Off push button switch out When you would like to return to normal operation turn the switch On push button switch in Important Notes Equipment is not completely disconnected from main power source when power switch is in the OFF position Power LED The power LED indicates that the AC cord is plugged into a working AC power receptacle and that the power switch is in the On position Bicolor Status LED The bicolor Status LED illuminates green when the amplifier circuitry has been turned on by the Turn On circuits and illuminates red to indicate activation of the amplifier s built in protection circuitry due to either a fault in the wiring or the speaker or with the Niles System Integration Amplifier itself Using Level Controls as Limiters If your system is remote controlled or if you think that some of the users like to play the stereo too loudly you can choose to calibrate the system so that it is limited to a volume level you assign The SI 1230 allows you to set different volume levels for different rooms Calibrate your system volume levels with the steps outlined below 1 Lower all
3. eS p AMPLIFIERS INSTALLATION GUIDE Si 123Q SERIES 2 R NILES Rf NILES BLENDING HIGH FIDELITY AND ARCHITECTURE R NILES CONGRATULATIONS Thank you for purchasing the award winning Niles SI 1230 Series 2 one of the most versatile and powerful multi channel amplifiers ever offered Like all Niles products the SI 1230 is built to the highest standards of quality and reliability With proper installation and operation you ll enjoy years of trouble free use TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 4 FEATURES AND BENEFITS 5 SYSTEM DESIGN BASICS 7 SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 9 APPLICATIONS 11 CONFIGURING YOUR SYSTEM 15 INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS 16 FRONT AND REAR PANEL DETAILS 18 INSTALLATION 20 OPERATION 25 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 21 SPECIFICATIONS 29 CONFIGURATION WORKSHEET 30 WWW NILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 1 Read these instructions 2 Keep these instructions 3 Heed all warnings 4 Follow all instructions 5 Do not use this apparatus near water 6 Clean only with a dry cloth 7 Do not block any ventilation openings Install in accordance with the manufacturer s instructions 8 Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators heat registers stoves or other apparatus including amplifiers that produce heat 9 Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug A po
4. 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS APPLICATIONS EXPANDING A MULTIZONE SYSTEM TO INCLUDE MORE ROOMS In the ultimate MultiZone system you connect six stereo preamplifiers or a single component multi zone multi source preamplifier to the dedicated inputs of SI 1230 These dedicated input signals are then routed to the appropriate amplifier channels via dip switch settings creating six completely independent listening zones MultiZone systems enable listeners located in the six separate zones to simultaneously listen to different source components as shown in Figure 5 Figure 5 Blu ray CD a Player Zone 1 5 Speaker Outputs tt APNILES y Niles ZR 6 D ooo A i o MultiZone Receiver et r Bk 3 3 D3 Zone 6 Preamp Output a B set to fixed D gee BusMatrix oo Niles High Power 9 2 O Volume Controls a Q O O O O O O Ab Room 1 Room 2 Room 3 Room 4 Room 5 NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 __________ EY R NILES APPLICATIONS ADDING PREAMPS TO CREATE MORE LISTENING ZONES In the ultimate MultiZone system you connect six stereo preamplifiers or a single component
5. audio inputs If it detects a signal the adjacent POWER SWITCH MUST BE IN pair of amplifier channels i e channel 1 amp 2 3 THE ON SWITCH IN POSITION amp 4 etc assigned to receive the input signals FOR ANY OF THE THREE TURN will turn on Once the audio signal stops the ON OPTIONS TO FUNCTION sensing circuit waits two minutes then turns all amplifier channels off 3 24 Volt Ac Dc Opto lsolated Voltage Trigger The Power switch on the front panel must be in the On position for the voltage trigger to function When a Trigger Plug is inserted into the rear panel connector and the sensing circuitry detects a voltage the amplifier is turned on Once the Trigger voltage is turned off the sensing circuit instantly turns the amplifier off The amplifier is off when there is no 3 24V AC or DC voltage detected at the trigger input Voltage triggers can be supplied by Niles automated switchers some video projectors some surround sound processors or something as simple as a 12 volt AC wall adapter plugged into the switched outlet of your stereo receiver Linear DC wall adapters are not recommended the long discharge time of the DC adapter s filter capacitor will delay the turn off of the amplifier Trigger sources must be 3 24VAC or DC 20mA or greater 16 Ss wwntesauio com 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER ANA ed Dd db INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS PLACEMENT Place the SI 1230 on a flat level surface like a table or
6. baffle or screen be placed above the amplifier to block hand access to the top surface of the SI1230 Make sure that there is a minimum of 7 of free air space above the amplifier for proper ventilation LLLLMMLLMLLLALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL MMM F y HA If the cabinet rear is not open to fresh air or if you re using low impedance loads install two boxer fans to provide continuous air flow into and out of the cabinet lJ WLLL Allow a minimum of 2 of depth behind unit to accommodate cables and connectors NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 __________ 17 VANES FRONT AND REAR PANEL DETAILS sil 1230 Systems Integration Amplifier Front panel Master Power switch turns off the entire amplifier including the Turn On circuitry Cascade outputs of the main bus input Main Bus Inputs enable you to route enable you to daisy chain multiple a stereo line level source to the BusMatrix of the SI 1230 7 ft Y Lf This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES 003 F sl 1230 s E RA 2 Cet appareil num rique de la classe B est conforme a la norme N ILES Niles Systems Integration Af Pfiifier NMB 003 du Canada Desic 3 BRIDGED 4 A USE CH 4 gt WHEN BRIDGED BRIDGED 2 USE CH 2 A WHEN BRIDGED L MAIN CASCADE BUS INPUT OUTPUT
7. d N BRIDGED BRIDGED BRIDGED 220 240V o 00 0 b ERSE ails Z R log Lle os L_ ecois es a a ala la 100 120V O 4 Q MINIMUM 4 Q MINIMUM 4 Q MINIMUM CAUTION REPLACE WITH SAME TYPE AND 8 Q MINIMUM IN BRIDGED MODE 8 Q MINIMUM IN BRIDGED MODE 8 Q MINIMUM IN BRIDGED MODE RATING FUSE BRIDGED 4 BRIDGED BRIDGED 4 BRIDGED BRIDGED 4 BRIDGED CN CAN COS AN O C O FUSE 100 120V T10AL 250V 220 240V TSAL 250V OAN AN ON CLASS II WIRING 9 FASS II WIRING 10 11 CLASS II WIRING 12 100 120 220 240 V 50 60 Hz 500W D Removable Two pron Dual banana spaced binding post for 16 cauce 6 AC ee aan speaker connections gaug p NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 19 VANES INSTALLATION LINE LEVEL AUDIO INPUT CAUTION The amplifier must be off whenever you make changes to the input connections STEP 1 Label all of the interconnecting cables for the sources they connect to 2 Connect the sources by inserting the RCA plug into the amplifier s jacks NOTE If you are using two amplifier channels in bridged mode connect the input cable to the even numbered amplifier input jack CASCADE AUDIO OUTPUTS DESCRIPTION Use audio patch cables with RCA phono plugs attached to the ends Connect outputs from your sources to
8. of the SI 1230 level controls to the minimum volume position If there are any other amplifiers in the system lower their level controls to the minimum all of the amplifiers in your system must have level controls 2 Raise all of the individual in wall volume controls to the loudest setting 3 Play a loud radio station with the tuner set to Mono 4 Raise the volume of your preamplifier or receiver slowly if you hear any sound lower the volume again and recheck all of your amplifier levels they must be at minimum If no sound is heard proceed to step five 5 Have someone step into each room and listen as you adjust each level control to the desired maximum level for that room Adjust the balance between speakers for the most common listening position in each room NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 ______________ QO R NILES LISTENING AT HIGHER VOLUMES Thirty watts is enough power to play a conventional speaker in a normal sized room loudly enough to completely drown out conversation Even at levels like that the SI 1230 will sound clear and clean However it requires more power to achieve a reasonable volume of sound in a large room than it does in a small room It is possible even if you are not a teenager to turn the volume so high that the amplifier runs out of power This creates clipping distortion Clipping distortion makes treble sound very harsh and unmusical When you hear h
9. or a AM FM RECEIVER el DSSRECEIVER SAT 1 N SIGNAL 2390930000080 c 5 SORE area ream NILES i V V i E NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 11 VANES APPLICATIONS USING A DUAL ZONE RECEIVER FOR TWO LISTENING ZONES Most of today s Dolby Digital Audio Video Receivers include a second zone preamplifier output to create a second listening zone Using this output with the SI 1230 BusMatrix input provides amplification for multiple rooms within a second listening zone as shown in Figure 4 In addition in this example high power is supplied to the patio stereo speakers by bridging channel pair 9 and 10 for the left soeaker and bridging channel pair 11 and 12 for the right speaker Figure 4 Blu ray CD DUAL ZONE SURROUND SOUND RECEIVER amanan Zone 1 S Home Theater Ke Front Speakers Center Speakers Rear Speakers D SERIES 2 teres R NILES r x BusMatrix Niles High Power 2 2 Volume Controls Q Living Room Kitchen Office Bedroom Patio Bridged Channels 9 10 11 12 12 Ss wnesauio com
10. that interference will not occur ina particular installation If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver Connect the equipment into an outlet ona circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected Consult the dealer or an experienced radio TV technician for help Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user s authority to operate the equipment NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 TANIE SSY INTRODUCTION We call the SI 1230 a Systems Integration Amplifier because it is a power amplifier specifically designed to solve the problems of interfacing with different brands and models of equipment different acoustic environments in different rooms and different kinds of applications home theater stereo and background music As you read this manual and become more familiar with the capabilities of the SI 1230 you ll understand why its predecessor the SI 1200 was selected Best New Product 1994 by Sound amp Video Contractor Magazine and CEDIA Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association In addition t
11. will greatly benefit from bridging four channels into two 80 watt channels 2 Surround Sound Systems DO The dynamic demands for the center channel are much greater than the left right or surround channels This is an excellent application for two channels to be bridged into one 80 watt channel 3 More than one pair of 8 ohm speakers DON T In a large room ora long hallway often the best way to get good background music is to install multiple pairs of speakers You will actually deliver more power to two pairs of 8 ohm speakers by using two unbridged amplifier channels than you would if you bridged four amplifier channels into two and connected the two pairs of speakers in parallel 10 so wwntesaunio com 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS APPLICATIONS ADVANTAGES OF USING THE SI 1230 IN A SINGLE ZONE SYSTEM When you connect the preamplifier outputs of your stereo receiver or stereo preamplifier to the SI 1230 BusMatrix you dedicate a robust 30 watts to each speaker in your multi room system as shown in Figure 3 Each channel of the SI 1230 has its own level control so you can compensate for architectural differences that create sonic imbalances In addition you can fine tune the system so that when all of the room volume controls are set to the loudest level the large rooms and the small rooms play at the same volume Figure 3 00000 PRE AMP
12. will provide Use the SI 1230 s auto turn on circuitry to turn on the SI 1230 whenever the preamp is on WWW NILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER ANA ed OD db INSTALLATION SPEAKER WIRE CONNECTIONS CAUTION All speaker wire connections must be made with the amplifier off Bare Wire Unscrew the red or black plastic knob insert the bare wire end into the opening and then tighten the knob until the wire is securely clamped 1 Label all wires 2 Connect one stripped wire end or banana plug to the black terminal and one to the red terminal CAUTION Avoid having even a single strand of wire touching the chassis or another connector Banana Plugs There are many types of banana plugs some crimp some solder The Niles gold banana plug has 3 quick connect binding post for the bare wire on the body of the plug A banana plug is simply inserted into the jack at the end of the amplifier s binding post Dual banana plugs will fit the binding post DESCRIPTION If you label the wires for their destination rather than which terminal of the SI 1230 they are connected to it will be easier to reconfigure your system in the future A Split the speaker wire insulation so that at least two inches of each conductor are separated B Strip one half inch of insulation from the end of each conductor of the speaker wire C Attach banana plugs or twist the strands of wire together and insert them int
13. Bridged speaker terminals BRIDGED BRIDGED Observe proper polarity markings CAUTION DO NOT connect a speaker selector or headphone junction box to the output of a bridged channel pair 3 Use the EVEN NUMBERED input DIP switch and level control for connections and configuration NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 Slide the bridging switch in the direction of the arrow to bridge two adjacent amplifier channels Set the controls of the newly bridged pair by using the EVEN numbered L L R R B05 N AS L R fo channel When two channels are bridged together connect speakers to the two terminals labeled Bridged BRIDGED BRIDGED 1 2 DESCRIPTION The 12 channels are grouped into 6 pairs e g 1 amp 2 Only the two channels within a pair can be bridged Thus only channels 1 and 2 or channels 3 and 4 could be bridged You cannot bridge 2 and 3 for example A bridged channel on a SI 1230 is designed for an eight ohm minimum load Connecting a speaker with a nominal impedance of less than 8 ohms may cause the SI 1230 to go into protection or be damaged Connect your speaker wire only to the red terminals of the two adjacent amplifier channels If one of the speaker wires touches a black terminal thereby grounding the red hot terminals you will short circuit the amplifier These connections to a bridged channel pair will result in either thermal shutdown or poor
14. ODE SETTINGS IN USE SPECIAL Teo O SS wsos C vomero OOOO oS SO owowa G S NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 15 R NILES INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS Automating the turn on of your SI 1230 is one of the easiest steps when installing it in a distributed system However do not plug the main power cord into the switched AC outlet of your preamplifier or receiver The high power design of the SI 1230 requires large amounts of current from its AC power source Additionally it is always recommended to activate the system preamplifier receiver before turning on your SI 1230 in order to prevent system turn on thumps In order to address these important needs the SI 1230 has three special turn on modes that let you turn the amplifier on only when it is needed These three options are accessed by the Turn On Mode selector switch see Figure 7 Turn On Modes Figure 7 nstant Th to turn on circuitry Constant e auto turn o ci cuitry is off The TURN ON MODE front panel master power switch operates the AUDIO SENGE amplifier In is On Out is Off CONSTANT I ARE Audio Sense The master switch on the INPUT front panel must be in the On position The amplifier is off when there is no audio signal present at any of the audio inputs but the sensing circuitry is on The turn on sensing circuitry looks for a signal present at any of the IMPORTANT THE FRONT PANEL
15. OR SMOOTHER COVERAGE In large or irregularly shaped rooms you may find that the main listening area may be closer to one of the speakers If the speakers in the room are connected to a stereo amplifier you will only hear half the music The SI 1230 s BusMatrix enables you to create mono sound from one speaker without impacting the stereo quality in the rest of the system You can configure each room to either stereo or mono as needed with no ill effects Some of the most popular areas where mono will greatly enhance the sound quality would be e Large rooms with many seating areas and or many pairs of speakers e Irregularly shaped rooms e Bathrooms with one speaker over the tub and one speaker over the sink s e Hallways or passageways including those with multiple speakers e Small rooms such as walk in closets where more than a single speaker is not required BRIDGING CHANNELS FOR AREAS THAT REQUIRE MORE VOLUME AND POWER There are several situations where bridging is an excellent way to improve the sound There are also applications where bridging would seem to be appropriate but is not recommended Bridging channels increases the power output to 80 watts per channel at 8 ohms These are some of the most common DOs and DON Ts 1 Outdoors DO Sound dissipates faster outside than it does in a room where the walls enclose the sound and reflect it back to the listener A pair of speakers playing into a large patio or yard
16. PROVIDED OR PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW EVEN IF NILES HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES Notwithstanding the above if you qualify as a consumer under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act or applicable state laws then you may be entitled to any implied warranties allowed by law for the Warranty Period Further some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages so such limitations may not apply to you This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state For the name of your nearest authorized NILES dealer contact THE AVC GROUP 1969 Kellogg Avenue Carlsbad CA 92008 or call 800 BUY HIFI 289 4434 or 760 710 0992 Please be advised that NILES only sells its products via the Internet through a select group of authorized Internet dealers These are listed on our website at www nilesaudio com Products offered on the Internet through unauthorized Internet dealers are not covered by the NILES warranty and may be either 1 goods acquired on a secondary or grey market 2 counterfeit or stolen goods 3 damaged or defective goods Please fill in your product information and retain for your records Model Serial No Purchase Date ATTENTION TO OUR VALUED CONSUMERS To insure that consumers obtain quality pre sale and after sale support and service NILES products are so
17. arsh sounding treble from any good speaker turn the volume down immediately Those harsh sounds are masking some much more powerful high frequency sound spikes which will quickly damage the tweeter of any loudspeaker If you continue to operate the amplifier at clipping power levels the protection circuits will operate when the amplifier overheats The protection circuits reset when the amplifier s internal circuitry cools Reduce the volume to prevent a reoccurrence Perpetually overdriving your speakers and amplifier is abuse and probably voids the manufacturer s warranty of all affected products CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE The internal parts of the SI 1230 are electronic and require no maintenance Once a year it is appropriate to twist the RCA connectors on each input to remove any oxidation and improve conductivity You can clean only with dry cloth Do not use any spray type abrasive cleaners on the amplifier 6 Wnts COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE When there is a problem consult this guide first If the problem persists or you have additional questions call your local Niles dealer or call Niles Technical Support at 1 800 289 4434 The most common problems relate to hook up Have your configuration worksheet handy when you call Possible Causes and Test Procedure BusMatrix DIP switch is not in the correct position Check your configuration worksheet for the correct setting an
18. ceptacle 17 The power supply cord sometimes referred to as the Mains Plug is used as the disconnect device and shall remain accessible and operable at all times 18 Do not expose batteries to excessive heat such as sunshine fire or the like 19 Open flame sources such as lighted candles should NOT be placed on the apparatus WARNING To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance servicing instructions in the literature accompanying the product FCC Required Text NOTE This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference ina residential installation This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions may cause harmful interference to radio communications However there is no guarantee
19. d verify Short circuit or loose wire at speaker or amplifier terminals Check that connections are secure and that there are no loose strands of wire crossing from the positive to the negative terminal at the back of the amplifier and the speaker Short circuit or a break in the speaker wire Disconnect the speaker wire at both ends separate the 2 conductors at both ends and test with a meter for a short circuit If there is no short z p on one connect the two conductors at one end and test with a meter for continuity channe Speaker is not working Connect the speaker to a channel that plays another speaker Audio cable to dedicated input is bad Connect the non working channel input to another cable that is known to be good Bridging Switch is in the wrong position Check your configuration worksheet for the correct setting and verify The thermal protection circuit has operated because of overheating caused by over driving or inadequate ventilation BusMatrix DIP switches are not in the correct positions Check your configuration worksheet and verify all settings No sound on some or all channels Audio cable to the main bus inputs is bad Connect the non working channel input to another cable that is known to be good Some or all of the internal amplifier fuses are blown Return the amplifier to your dealer for service Hum may be caused by a ground loop between two components in the system Test for a ground
20. ging switch is On BY PHONE IN USA 1 800 BUY HIFI 289 4434 B PHORNETOWUTIDE USA 1 760 710 0992 CUSTOMER Sek IGE rims 8 00 AM to 5 30 PM PT heer Nie AR wr Om iawn 6 00 AM to 4 00 PM PT ON Tee VEB www nilesaudio com EMAIL TECHNICAL SUPPORT techsupport nilesaudio com EMAIL FOR PRODUCT SUSGCESTIONS productsuggestions nilesaudio com WWW NILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS SPECIFICATIONS Detail SI 1230 Series 2 Design Principle Digital high current bridgeable multi channel amplifier Continuous Average Power Output 30 watts RMS per channel into 8 Ohms 40 watts RMS per channel into 4 Ohms all channels driven Continuous Average Power 80 watts RMS per channel into 8 Ohms Output Bridged 17 43 81 cm wide Overall 5 34 dt 5 cm ve including feet Dimensions 16 14 41 1 cm deep meom wots 1521 acs 1002022024080 60 0 NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 9 VANES CONFIGURATION WORKSHEET For ease of use the Configuration Worksheet can be enlarged on a photocopier BUS INS amp OUTS CONNECTED TO Left Main Bus Right Main Bus Cascade Output CH BRIDGED DIP INPUT SOURCE SPEAKER MODE SETTINGS IN USE SPECIAL coram O aose OOO m SSC owo SO 30 ____ OT wwntesaupio com 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS LIMITED WARRANTY Niles Audio Corporation NILES warrants to the orig
21. he SI 1200 also won the Consumer Electronics Show s Innovations 95 Design and Engineering Award BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS TRR S eriine ansa ration Amplifier R NILES T 00 S230 SERIES 2 A WWW NILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS FEATURES AND BENEFITS REAL WORLD POWER The SI 1230 is a 12 channel amplifier that delivers a solid 30 watts per channel RMS into 8 ohms and 40 watts per channel RMS into 4 ohms A new digital power transformer design provides the energy necessary to efficiently deliver solid deep controlled bass response to a house full of speakers TWELVE TO SIX CHANNEL CONFIGURABLE POWER Each of the SI 1230 s six adjacent speaker output pairs are bridgeable You can create up to six 80 watt channels by sliding the bridging switches located between each pair to the bridged position This enables you to allocate more power to specific locations such as large rooms or outdoor applications FREEDOM FROM NOISE AND CROSS TALK The SI 1230 s BusMatrix incorporates advanced PCB construction ensuring extremely high channel to channel isolation Signal to noise ratios and cross talk are equivalent to a professional mixing board found in a recording studio With the SI 1230 the music playing in the living room cannot interfere with the music in the den TRANSPARENT SOUND The audio circuitry of the SI 1230 is constructed with the finest part
22. her volume levels for more information on proper amplifier placement see Installation Considerations on page 15 When designing your system try to specify 6 8 ohm speakers Niles offers a complete line of inwall in ceiling outdoor and home theater loudspeakers with all models rated from 6 8 ohms CABLE AND WIRE Because the SI 1230 has many connections on the rear panel See Figure 12 it is important that you correctly label all of the input cables and speaker wires Label the cables and wires with their destination or source rather than the SI 1230 terminal to which they are connected This will make it easier to reconfigure your system in the future The SI 1230 connects to your sources via shielded line level audio cables with RCA connectors Use high quality cables with your Niles amplifier for the lowest possible noise and best overall performance Your Niles dealer can recommend the proper cable The SI 1230 connects to your speakers using two conductor speaker wire For most applications we recommend you use 16 or 18 gauge wire For wiring runs longer than 80 feet we recommend 14 gauge wire The SI 1230 s high quality gold plated 5 way binding posts will accommodate up to 12 gauge wire Attaching banana plugs to the wire will enable the connection of larger wire sizes NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 ________ 9 __ Q9 VANES SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS CONTINUED USING MONO F
23. inal retail purchaser only that this product will be free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship for the following periods and subject to the limitations and exclusions set forth below Lifetime Warranty All Passive Amplifier Products those not requiring AC or battery power Ten years from the date of purchase All Other Passive Products those not requiring AC or battery power Two years from the date of purchase All Active Products those requiring AC or battery power This warranty is not transferable to subsequent purchasers of the product To obtain warranty service contact the authorized dealer where you purchased your product or take the unit to the nearest authorized NILES dealer with proof of purchase claims made without proof of purchase will be denied who will test the product and if necessary forward it to NILES for service If there are no authorized NILES dealers in your area you must contact NILES to receive a factory Return Authorization Number DO NOT RETURN ANY UNIT WITHOUT FIRST RECEIVING WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION AND SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS FROM NILES Upon examination NILES will at its sole option and expense repair or replace any product found to be defective NILES will return the repaired or replaced unit to you via its usual shipping method from the factory to your address in the United States of America or Canada only Any shipping costs for addresses outside of the United States or Canada shall be the
24. inputs on the amplifier Never connect a source or preamplifier s input e g record inputs to the inputs of your SI 1230 The Cascade Audio Outputs enable you to connect another amplifier to your preamplifier output The connectors are gold plated RCA phono jacks Connect them to another amplifier s inputs with a standard audio patch cable The outputs are not buffered if you wish to daisy chain more than 5 Niles amplifiers you will need a Niles AVDA 3 buffered distribution amplifier A single AVDA 3 will allow you to daisy chain 5 amplifiers from each of its six outputs allowing 30 SI 1230 power amplifiers to be fed from the same master preamplifier If your preamp has a vacuum tube output stage you must use a Niles AVDA 3 to drive more than a single SI 1230 AC POWER PLUG 1 Plug the female IEC socket of the supplied AC power cord the supplied power cord is designed for 120V AC wall outlets or use an appropriate IEC AC power cord to match the electrical wall outlet you are using e g 240V AC into the IEC receptacle on the rear of the amplifier CAUTION Do not plug the amplifier s cord into a preamplifiers convenience outlets DESCRIPTION If you use a grounded power strip surge suppressor or extension cord verify that proper ground is maintained The SI 1230 draws a maximum of approximately 890 watts from an AC wall outlet This is much more than the typical accessory outlet on the back of a component
25. larized 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 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 Use only with the cart stand tripod bracket or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the apparatus When a cart is used use caution when moving the cart apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip over 13 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time 14 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way such as 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 15 Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids such as vases are placed on the apparatus 16 To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC Mains disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC re
26. ld exclusively through authorized dealers This warranty is VOID if the products have been purchased from an unauthorized dealer NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 __________ BY NILES BLENDING HIGH FIDELITY AND ARCHITECTURE 1690 Corporate Circle Petaluma CA 94954 1 760 710 0992 1 800 BUY HIFI www nilesaudio com 2012 Core Brands LLC All rights reserved Niles and the Niles logos are registered trademarks of Core Brands LLC All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners We reserve the right to change specifications descriptions and prices without notice The technical and other information contained herein is not intended to set forth all technical and other specifications Designed and engineered in the USA 9901253 Rev D
27. loop by reversing the AC plugs of any components in the system with non polarized AC Hum from all the plugs speakers Check for faulty cables faulty source material an ungrounded phono system cable TV feed or a defective component Master power switch must be on Amp will not turn on AC power cord must be plugged into a working outlet Test that the AC power receptacle is working If the outlet tests 0 K the internal fuses are blown Return the amplifier to your dealer for service NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIF 1 760 710 0992 97 PANIES TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE Symptom Sound is distorted on one or all of the channels at normal volumes Normal volume cannot be reached Bass sound is weak and the stereo image is phasey sounding in one room A speaker connected to a bridged pair of amplifier channels sounds weak Possible Causes and Test Procedure BusMatrix DIP switches are not in the correct positions Check your configuration worksheet and verify all settings One of the internal amplifier fuses is blown Return the amplifier to your dealer for service Check that the bridging switch is Off If two adjacent channels are connected normally but the bridging switch is set to the Bridged position the two speakers will play out of phase with each other The loudspeakers are wired out of phase Reverse the connections at the back of one speaker Check that the brid
28. multi zone multi source preamplifier to the dedicated inputs of Sl 1230 These dedicated input signals are then routed to the appropriate amplifier channels via dip switch settings creating six completely independent listening Zones MultiZone systems enable listeners located in the six separate zones to simultaneously listen to different source components as shown in Figure 6 Figure 6 Blu ray 0 e riir ir rr r r r l E l NILES Zone Outputs Dedicated Inputs Sagnesgegaga Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 4 Zone 5 Zone 6 14Q WWW ILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS CONFIGURING YOUR SYSTEM Because the SI 1230 offers so many configuration possibilities it is important to plan carefully before you install it Draw a block diagram of your system and use the Configuration Worksheet on page 27 to record how you plan to connect your SI 1230 Here is an example filled out according to the block diagram on page 10 Example 1 BUS INS amp OUTS CONNECTED TO Stereo Receiver 2nd Zone Left Pre Output Stereo Receiver 2nd Zone Right Pre Output CH BRIDGED DIP INPUT SOURCE SPEAKER Zoned Left Zone3 Right Zone4 Left Zone4 Right Zone Left p12 R Mainbus Zone Right M
29. o the appropriate binding post NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 21 PANIES INSTALLATION BUSMATRIX INPUT SWITCH SETTING Each channel has a dedicated BusMatrix DIP switch that assigns that channel s source To assign a signal from the Main Bus Input select one of the first three switches which will give you either Left L Right R or Mono L R To assign the channel s dedicated input select the fourth switch Only ONE switch should be selected to the ON position DESCRIPTION ICAUTION The DIP switch physically allows you to move all Move only ONE switch to the ON position four of the switches to the On position If you accidentally for each channel set more than one switch On you will create an undesirable mix of inputs on the entire bus 2 __ SSSSSSSSSSS s wntesaupio com 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS INSTALLATION BRIDGING TWO CHANNELS INTO ONE The Sl 1230 s bridging switches allow you to create a more powerful amplifier channel by combining or bridging two adjacent channels 3 BRIDGED 4 gt L_ EL USE CH 4 WHEN a 1 Choose which of the six pairs you wish to bridge and move the bridging switch for that pair to the Bridged position toward arrow CAUTION Do not connect a speaker load of less than eight ohms to a bridged channel 2 Connect the speaker wires to the two
30. on In the unlikely event that a problem occurs on one channel the other channels will continue to play When conditions return to normal regular operation resumes STATUS DISPLAY FOR TROUBLESHOOTING LED s on the front panel indicate Power Active and Protection Status With a glance at the frontpanel a troubleshooter is quickly provided with key information DESIGNED AND ENGINEERED IN THE USA Limited two year parts and labor warranty gq _ WWW NILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS SYSTEM DESIGN BASICS As shown in Figure 1 a distributed audio video system is defined by the number of listening zones it has Within a listening zone you can listen to only one source e g CD Radio iPod etc at any one time A listening zone can consist of a single room or a group of rooms To achieve different volumes and greater convenience in different rooms within a zone individual volume controls can be used Niles makes volume controls in various styles and colors When designing your system take into account who will use the system and when they will use it Consult your local Niles dealer for more information Figure 1 Plasma Blu ray _ Player 00000 QD gt RECEIVER m l ENN D N Jj NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 7 VANES SYSTEM DESIGN BASICS CONTINUED A MultiZone sys
31. quality sound When two channels are bridged into one make sure that the odd numbered input DIP switches are all in the off position 23 R NILES INSTALLATION SETTING THE TURN ON MODE SWITCH TURN ON MODE AUDIO SENSE The SI 1230 has three turn on modes Select 3 30V the mode you want by sliding the mode switch CONSTANT M J fcc See Installation Considerations on page 14 for INPUT more information about each of the turn on modes TIP To conserve energy set the TURN ON mode to SLIDE THE SWITCH WITH EITHER either AUDIO SENSE or TRIGGER INPUT Use of the YOUR FINGERNAIL OR 1 8 CONSTANT mode will prevent the amplifier from SLOTTED SCREWDRIVER BLADE turning off when not in use wasting energy THE CONTROL OUTPUT This terminal provides a 12V DC signal suitable for triggering Niles automated Pe C g switchers some motorized screens some fe electric curtain controls etc This voltage i is present only when the amplifier is active AT or on When the amplifier turns off the 12V j L io signal is off STEP DESCRIPTION 1 Check the requirements of the device you The control output has a maximum want to control current capability of 150 mA 2 Connect the 3 5 mm Jack to the control output maintaining proper polarity M N an accessory cable plug tip 24 i WWW ILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS OPERATION POWER SWITCH
32. responsibility of the purchaser In the event that this model is no longer available and cannot be repaired effectively NILES at its sole option may replace it with a different model of equal or greater value or refund the original purchase price paid THE FOREGOING ARE YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES FOR BREACH OF WARRANTY This Warranty does not include service or parts to repair damage caused by improper use or handling including but not limited to damage caused by accident mishandling improper installation commercial use abuse negligence or normal wear and tear or any defect caused by repair to the product by anyone other than NILES This warranty does not cover reimbursement for your costs of removing and transporting the product for warranty service evaluation or installation of any replacement product provided under this warranty This Warranty will be void if e the Serial Number on the product has been removed tampered with or defaced e the product was not purchased from an authorized dealer or reseller THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESSED AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES NILES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL SUCH OTHER WARRANTIES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON INFRINGEMENT WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCT TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW NILES SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT
33. s available including 1 metal film resistors high quality capacitors and oversized heat sinks All this attention to technical detail results in a sound that is clear and uncolored BUSMATRIX SELECTOR Our unique BusMatrix selector gives you the flexibility to assign each channel to a common Left Right or Mono signal bus or to a dedicated signal input With BusMatrix routing surround sound to the master bedroom stereo to the den and mono to the powder room is as simple as flicking a switch BusMatrix makes the SI 1230 an ideal multi room or multi zone amplifier and offers exciting new features and system design possibilities to the professional installer NILES AUDIO CORPORATION 1 800 BUY HIFI 1 760 710 0992 ______ 5 VANES FEATURES AND BENEFITS CONTINUED INDEPENDENT LEVEL CONTROLS Each amplifier channel has an independent level control enabling you to adjust the volume settings for twelve different soeaker locations individually Each speaker can now be adjusted specifically for its location and for who will be listening TURN ON MODES The SI 1230 features three turn on modes 1 Manual turn on via the front panel switch 2 Audio Sense and 3 External Voltage trigger Audio Sense and External Voltage trigger modes enable you to configure the SI 1230 to interface with any kind of system and turn on automatically AUTOMATIC PROTECTION Each channel has independent thermal and short circuit protecti
34. shelf It should be placed upright so that its weight rests on the unit s four feet PLACING THE WEIGHT OF THE AMPLIFIER ON THE REAR OR FRONT PANEL FOR EVEN AN INSTANT WILL RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER S CONNECTORS AND CONTROLS The SI 1230 like any hi fi component will last much longer if it is given adequate ventilation for proper cooling When installing the SI 1230 in a cabinet be sure that the rear of the cabinet is open to fresh air to provide proper cooling see Figure 10 If the cabinet s design will not accommodate an open rear install two small boxer fans to provide continuous air flow into and out of the cabinet see Figure 11 Place the SI 1230 so that there is at least 5 of free air space above the chassis If the amplifier is located on a carpeted surface place a board under the amplifier s feet Do not block the ventilation holes on the top and bottom of the SI 1230 The SI 1230 is equipped with a digital power transformer This transformer generates a powerful magnetic field which could induce hum in a turntable particularly a turntable equipped with a moving coil cartridge Do not place a turntable directly above or directly adjacent to the SI 1230 LLL LLLLILLLILIILILLIMIMLALMLLMMLLALLILLLILMLIMMLLULMLLLLL h top of the Amplifier behind the Amplifier N N N N N N N NY SLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL Ul Because the surface of the amplifier may get hot it is recommended that a
35. tem as shown in Figure 2 offers the house hold more flexibility For instance a family might have their family room wired for surround sound and their living room wired for background music In a two zone system the children can watch TV in surround sound while Mom and Dad are reading the paper and enjoying background music in the living room Figure 2 Plasma Family Room M _ Listening Zone 1 en Listening Zone 2 ane 8 E WWW NILESAUDIO COM 2 CHANNEL BRIDGABLE POWER AMPLIFIERS SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS SPEAKER COMPATIBILITY A single channel not bridged of the SI 1230 is capable of driving a 4 ohm impedance speaker load No more than two 8 ohm speakers or no more than one 4 6 ohm speaker can be safely connected to a single channel Proper ventilation of the SI 1230 is critical when driving lower impedance loads If the SI 1230 is not properly ventilated the protection circuits may activate and shut off the channel at higher volume levels for more information on proper amplifier placement see Installation Considerations on page 15 A channel pair that has been BRIDGED is capable of driving an impedance load of 8 ohms Proper ventilation of the SI 1230 is critical when driving a 8 ohm load with bridged channels If the SI 1230 is not properly ventilated the protection circuits may activate and shut off the channel at hig
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