Aquatic BLUECUBE+ AQ-BC-6UBT-X Guide

PLEASE READ THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL BEFORE
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
USER / INSTALLATION MANUAL
AQ-BC-6UBT-X
BLUECUBE+‘HIDE-AWAY’ MEDIA PLAYER
Supports Bluetooth Audio, USB, MP3 and FM Radio
MODE
BRIDGE
CHARGING

1 Getting Started....................................................................................................................
1.1 Contents........................................................................................................................
1.2 Connections...................................................................................................................
1.3 12-pin Harness Connection...........................................................................................
1.4 Mounting the BlueCube+ Media Player..........................................................................
1.5 Bluetooth Antenna Installation......................................................................................
1.6 Power Attenuation Wires.................................................................................................
1.7 Bridge Mode...................................................................................................................
1.8 Power On........................................................................................................................
1.9 Handheld Remote Control Charging...............................................................................
1.10 Handheld Remote Control Synchronizing......................................................................
2 Location of Controls............................................................................................................
2.1 Wireless Handheld Remote Control.................................................................................
3 Listening to Devices............................................................................................................
3.1 Listening via USB..........................................................................................................
3.1.1 Listening via USB...................................................................................................
3.1.2 Navi Search.............................................................................................................
3.1.3 Random Playing......................................................................................................
3.1.4 Device Charging.....................................................................................................
3.2 Listening via Bluetooth Audio........................................................................................
3.2.1 Pair with Bluetooth Audio Device............................................................................
3.2.2 Listening via Bluetooth Audio Device......................................................................
3.2.3 Bluetooth Multi-link................................................................................................
3.3 Listening via Auxiliary Input...........................................................................................
3.4 Adjust Volume Level.......................................................................................................
4 Listening to FM Radio...........................................................................................................
4.1 Enter FM Radio Mode.....................................................................................................
4.2 Scan or Seek FM Radio Channels...................................................................................
4.3 Saving Radio Channel to Memory...................................................................................
4.4 Listening to Saved Radio Memory...................................................................................
4.5 Adjust Volume Level.......................................................................................................
5 Additional Features.............................................................................................................
5.1 Audio Menu....................................................................................................................
5.2 Virtual Bass (VBass)......................................................................................................
5.3 External 12V Triggers.....................................................................................................
5.4 Bluetooth Halo Aerial Technology..............................................................................................
5.5 Connecting Multiple Amplifiers or High Current Draw Lighting Systems........................
6 Specifications & Dimensions..............................................................................................
6.1 Specifications................................................................................................................
6.2 Dimensions....................................................................................................................
7 Warranty Information..........................................................................................................
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Table of Contents BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
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1.1 Contents
• AQ-BC-6UBT-X BlueCube+ Media Player
• 2-Way RF Waterproof Remote Control (AQ-RF-6UBT-T)
• Wiring Harness (AQ-UNH-2)*
• Four (4) Stainless Steel Mounting Screws
• User/Installation Manual
• USB Charging Cable (AQ-RF-6UBT-C)
• Mounting Template*
• Bluetooth Antenna
*Retail packaged models only.
Getting Started BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
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1.2 Connections (see Diagram 1.2.1)
1. 12-pin Watertight Harness*
The 12-pin harness supplies power and ground connections to the BlueCube+ Media Player
and four (4) speaker channel output connections from the BlueCube+ Media Player (see Wir-
ing Diagram 1.3.1).
Do not cut or modify the 12-pin harness* on the Bluecube+ side or warranty will be void.
2. FM Radio Antenna Jack
Allows connection of FM radio antenna. For best FM performance make sure the antenna is
extended to the highest achievable position.
3. Auxiliary Outputs - Rear
Allows external amplifiers to be connected to power additional speakers.
4. Auxiliary Outputs - Front
Allows external amplifiers to be connected to power additional speakers.
5. Auxiliary Inputs
Allows an additional RCA input, from a standalone unit or another stereo source.
6. 12V DC External Trigger (x2)
Allows for external lighting or relays to be triggered (3A max load).
7. USB Input
For connection of USB thumb drives with MP3 and/or WMA files. Charges compatible USB
devices when connected via USB cable.
8. Wired Remote 8-pin DIN Cable
Allows connection of a wired Remote Control (AQ-WR-6F sold separately).
9. Power On LED
When the BlueCube+ is powered on the LED will illuminate red.
10. Bluetooth Halo Aerial Connector
Connect the Bluetooth Halo Aerial Technology Antenna (AQ-BTANT-1) to the male SMA
connector. Do not apply excessive torque on the SMA connector (no more than 0.5N-m). Use
hands to tighten the connection (do not use a wrench). See section 1.5.
11. Power Attenuation Wires
Allows the output level to be adjusted from a factory preset of -3dB to either -6dB, 0dB or
+6dB. See section 1.6 for further details.
12. Bridge Mode Wire
Allows the left and right rear channels to be used to power a standard passive subwoofer
(e.g. AQ-SWP8-2) instead of speakers. See section 1.7 for further details.
Aquatic AV does not recommend the wired Remote Control AQ-WR-6F for use in spa applications.
*Retail packaged models only.
Getting Started BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
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If your AQ-BC-6UBT-X was purchased from an Aquatic AV dealer and/or supplied with retail
packaging it is supplied with the Aquatic AV universal harness AQ-UNH-2 in order to connect the
media player to power and speakers. Please proceed to section 1.3.1.
If your AQ-BC-6UBT-X was supplied as a pre-installed waterproof entertainment system it will
utilise 3rd party wiring connections and is not supplied with the Aquatic AV 12-pin Harness.
Please proceed to section 1.4
1.3 12-pin Harness Connection (retail packaged models only)
1.3.1 12-pin Harness Wiring Diagram
1.2.1 Connections Diagram
2. FM Radio Antenna Jack
1. 12-pin Watertight Harness*
3. RCA Auxiliary Outputs - Rear
4. RCA Auxiliary Outputs - Front
5. RCA Auxiliary Inputs
6. 12V DC Triggers (2x red, 2x red/black)
7. USB Input Connector
8. Wired Remote 8-pin DIN Connector
9. Power On LED
10. Bluetooth Halo Aerial Connector
11. Power Attenuation Wires (1x white, 1x black)
12. Bridge Mode Wire (magenta)
No lower than a 2 Ohm load, or 4
Ohm in bridged mode, should be
used or damage may occur to the
BlueCube+.
Make sure the polarity of
speakers are connected correctly.
Rear channel Bridge Mode (for subwoofer operation) is
selected when the magenta wire is cut. See section 1.7.
Rear channel Bridge
Mode (for subwoofer
operation) is selected
when the magenta wire
is cut. See section 1.7.
All open wire connections should be soldered and protected against water and dust for best long-term performance.
*Retail packaged models only.
Getting Started BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
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1. Make sure the outside surface is clean and
clear of debris.
2. The BlueCube+ Media Player has four (4)
front screws. Drive the screws using a screw
driver. Make sure screws are snug and do not
over tighten.
1.4. Mounting the BlueCube+ Media Player
1.5 Bluetooth Antenna Installation
1. Screw on the provided Bluetooth Antenna,
avoiding bending the cable at a 90° angle.
2. Install the Bluetooth antenna as high as
possible, above the waterline of the spa if
possible, and making sure the arrow is pointing
directly upwards towards the sky to ensure the
Bluetooth range is maximized. If there is no
suitable surface to screw it in, we recommend
using a good quality double sided tape.
1.6 Power Attenuation Wires
The AQ-BC-6UBT-X Bluecube+ Media
Player’s power can be reduced or increased
to suit different applications. An output
level of -3dB or -6dB should be used to
avoid blowing very small speakers, often
used in spa applications.
By cutting only the white wire the output level will decrease to -6dB below the nominal 0dB.
By cutting both the white and black wires the power/volume will increase to +6dB above the
nominal 0dB.
By cutting only the black wire the power/volume will increase from -3dB to the nominal 0dB.
These modifications should only be carried out by an experienced audio installer.
Black Wire White Wire Output Level
Intact (not cut) Intact (not cut) -3dB
Intact (not cut) Cut -6dB
Cut Intact (not cut) 0dB (reference)
Cut Cut +6dB
Should you cut the wrong wires or wish to reconnect them to further alter the attenuation, the Power Attenuation
Wires can be crimped back together.
Getting Started BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
6www.aquaticav.com

1.7 Bridge Mode
The AQ-BC-6UBT-X is capable of powering up to eight 4 Ohm speakers, however should you wish
to power a subwoofer in addition to standard speakers this can be achieved by using the two rear
speaker channels in Bridge Mode.
Cut the magenta wire to place the Bluecube+ Media Player in Bridge Mode and you will now be
able to use the left and right rear channels to power a standard passive subwoofer such as the
Aquatic AV AQ-SWP8-2.
In Bridge Mode you will only be able to power up to four 4 Ohm speakers (two from the front left
channel and two from the front right channel) plus a subwoofer.
These modifications should only be carried out by an experienced audio installer.
Should you wish to reconnect the Bridge Mode wire this can be crimped back together.
The AQ-BC-6UBT-X requires +12V DC to both the red and yellow wires. When both of these wires
have power the AQ-BC-6UBT-X is always powered on, indicated by a red LED on the heatsink of
the media player. Ground is connected to the black wire.
In a spa application this requires the red and yellow wires to be jumped together and then
connected to the +12VDC output of the power source. In this set up the AQ-BC-6UBT-X will
always be on, with a very low current draw when idle.
In a boat, ATV or other application requiring power from a battery, the yellow wire (constant
power) should be connected to the battery, and the red wire should be connected to the ignition
or a switch.
For detailed instructions you can check out our online video:
‘How to wire your Aquatic AV stereo system’
http://www.aquaticav.com/support/videos
1.8 Power On
Getting Started BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
7www.aquaticav.com

The remote has a built-in Polymer Lithium rechargeable battery and comes with a charg-
ing cable. Connect one end of the charging cable to the charging connection on the remote
control and connect the USB end of the charging cable to any USB charger (5V DC) for
charging.
Make sure the remote has been charged before used.
1.9 Handheld Remote Control Charging
The remote should already be paired from the factory, but if you need to synchronize the
remote, follow the steps below.
1. Make sure BlueCube+ Media Player is powered ON (red LED)
2. Put the remote within 0.5 meter of the BlueCube+ Media Player.
3. Press and hold MODE on remote control until the LCD shows “Pairing in Progress”.
Release the button.
4. Within 2 seconds, the LCD will show “Paired”. If it fails to pair, the LCD will show “Retry
again”. If this happens, wait 5 seconds and repeat steps above.
For any additional remote controls, you will also need to synchronize those remote controls to
the BlueCube+ Media Player.
1.10 Handheld Remote Control Synchronizing
If the pairing process is not successful, try again to put your remote close to the remote receiver or charge the remote
control if the battery is low.
Depending on the frequency of usage, the remote may drain its battery. Please charge the remote before use. If the LCD
shows nothing, the battery has been drained and will need charging.
If you have lost or damaged your remote control and buy a new remote control, follow the above steps to pair the
new remote control.
Getting Started BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
8www.aquaticav.com

2.1 Wireless Handheld Remote Control AQ-RF-6UBT-T
USB
Save & Exit Audio Menu
Location of Controls BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
9www.aquaticav.com

1. Switch on your Bluetooth Audio device.
2. Select ‘AQUATIC AV’ from the list of available devices to pair (no password is needed).
3.2.1 Pair with Bluetooth Audio Device
3.2 Listening via Bluetooth Audio
3.1 Listening via USB
3.1.4 Device Charging
When specified USB devices, such as Smartphones or MP3 players, are connected with a
standard male-to-female USB cable, the device’s battery will charge automatically. The USB
socket can deliver 1A of current to charge a device battery.
1. Attach your USB thumb drive to the female USB socket of the BlueCube+ Media Player.
2. Press MODE on the remote to select USB mode.
3. Press PLAY to play or pause the music.
4. Press FAST REWIND / FAST FORWARD once play previous / next song file.
5. Press and hold FAST REWIND / FAST FORWARD to fast forward / fast rewind the song file.
3.1.1 Listening via USB
Playback and navigation of music files via USB includes MP3 and WMA files.
3.1.2 Navi Search
You can navigate folders in the USB thumb drive.
1. Press 1 once to go to the next folder.
2. Press 3 once to go to the previous folder.
3.1.3 Random Playing
Press and hold 2 will toggle Random Play in USB mode.
Listening to Devices BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
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3.4 Adjust Volume Level
1. Press VOLUME UP once to increase the volume.
2. Press VOLUME DOWN once to reduce the volume.
3. Press and hold either VOLUME UP or VOLUME DOWN to increase or decrease audio
volume continuously.
3.2.2 Listening via Bluetooth Audio Device
1. Bluetooth Audio mode will be activated once a Bluetooth Audio device is paired in any
mode. Use MODE to change to the Bluetooth Audio mode to listen to music.
2. Play the song from device and the sound will play through the BlueCube+ Media Player.
3. Press PLAY/PAUSE to play/pause the song.
4. Press FAST REWIND/FORWARD buttons to play previous/next song file.
4. Press and hold FAST REWIND/FORWARD buttons to fast forward / fast rewind the song
file.
5. Previous/next track and volume up/down can be controlled directly from your Bluetooth
Audio device or directly from the BlueCube+ Media Player remote control.
3.3 Listening via Auxiliary Input
1. Connect your MP3 device to the RCA inputs.
2. Press MODE on the remote control to select ‘AUX’ mode.
Only one Auxiliary input (RCA) can be used at any one time.
3.2.3 Bluetooth Multi-link
A second Bluetooth Audio device can pair to the BlueCube+ Media Player even when music
is playing from the first Bluetooth Audio device.
Once paired, playing music from device 2 will override device 1 and the BlueCube+ Media
Player will begin playing music from device 2.
Should you wish to play music from device 1 again, wait 10 seconds and press play on
device 1. This process can be repeated between device 1 and device 2 indefinitely while
both devices are paired.
Listening to Devices BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
11www.aquaticav.com

4.5 Adjust Volume Level
1. Press VOLUME UP once to increase the volume.
2. Press VOLUME DOWN once to reduce the volume.
3. Press and hold either VOLUME UP or VOLUME DOWN to increase or decrease audio
volume continuously.
4.2 Scan or Seek FM Radio Channels
1. Press FAST REWIND/FAST FORWARD to seek another station.
2. Press once FAST REWIND/FAST FORWARD to -0.05kHz or +0.05kHz to the frequency.
4.3 Saving Radio Channel to Memory
To save the current frequency to memory, press and hold 1, 2 or 3 for more than 2 seconds.
The station will be stored into relevant button.
4.4 Listening to Saved Radio Memory
Press the 1, 2, or 3 preset button once to listen to the station stored in that button.
4.1 Enter FM Radio Mode
1. Press MODE on the remote control to switch to FM radio mode.
2. Press PLAY/PAUSE to mute or unmute the audio.
If this is the first time you listen to FM radio, the default frequency will be 87.5MHz, as shown on the remote
LCD.
FM radio is only available when you are in FM Radio mode.
Listening to FM Radio BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
12www.aquaticav.com

5.1 Audio Menu
The BlueCube+ Media Player is equipped with an audio DSP (Digital Signal Processor) to provide
preset listening experiences for different music types.
1. To enter audio menu, press once AUDIO
button on the remote control.
2. Each press of AUDIO button will advance
to the next audio setting as described on
the right.
3. In the audio menu, press and hold
AUDIO to save and exit the audio menu
back to the original mode.
5.2 Virtual Bass (VBass)
Virtual Bass (VBass) boosts the bass of the audio signal using the latest DSP technology and is
particularly useful when used with very small speakers to create perceived bass frequencies of a
much larger speaker.
Press VBASS once on the remote control to toggle it ON or OFF.
If you have chosen preset equalizer (Rock, Classic,
or Pop), the previous Bass & Treble settings will be
overridden.
In any operational mode, press the 12V TRIGGER button on the remote control to activate. Press
again to deactivate.
If using two external trigger wires you can also activate the second external trigger by pressing
and holding the 12V TRIGGER button to activate. Press and hold again to deactivate.
Aquatic AV understands the need for more flexible remote applications. With the BlueCube+
Media Player Aquatic AV has provided two independent 12V ‘accessory’ triggers, activated from
the remote control. These could activate any 12V based device like 12V lights or 12V motors.
5.3 External 12V Triggers
Load on External Trigger should not exceed 3A.
Aquatic AV strongly recommend you speak to our technical service staff or your local Aquatic AV dealer if you are
considering using this feature.
5.4 Bluetooth Halo Aerial Technology
The Bluetooth Halo Aerial Technology antenna AQ-BTANT-1 (included) improves the standard
Bluetooth wireless signal and range, for a stronger signal and increased range.
Additional Features BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
13www.aquaticav.com

Wiring a Single Pull Single Throw (SPST) Relay
The SPST is necessary to protect the stereo in systems
with multiple amplifiers. The AQ-BC-6UBT-X remote and
trigger wire provide 2A max current. While this enough
to power a single amplifier, complex systems with
multiple amplifiers will require a SPST relay.
Position 30: requires 12VDC from the main power
source (12V battery, power supply etc). This should be
the same power source that is powering your stereo.
Position 85: this is where you connect your ground from
your power source (12V battery, power supply, etc.) This
should be the same ground reference as your stereo.
Position 86: position 86 is triggered 12V, and is sent when your stereo is powered on.
For Aquatic AV stereos position 86 can be connected to either the blue remote wire in the harness
or the brown 12V trigger on the rear of the unit. The differences are below:
Blue (recommended): The blue (remote wire) provides a 12VDC output when the stereo is
powered on. Meaning as soon as the stereo is powered on the blue wire sends 12VDC through
the relay powering on the amplifier.
Brown: the brown (12V Trigger) provides 12VDC output when it is triggered via the lightning
bolt icon on the faceplate or handheld remote. This setup is more advantageous is a more
complex system with several zones, as it gives you control of when an amp is on or off.
Position 87: this is the 12VDC output that you will provide 12VDC to the remote turn on to the
amplifiers in your system.
5.5 Connecting Multiple Amplifiers or High Current Draw Lighting Systems
87
87
85
30
86
Triggered
12V DC from
stereo (Blue or
Brown wire)
Main 12V DC
input (fused)
Common
Ground
12V DC output for amplifier
Additional Features BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
14www.aquaticav.com

6.2 Dimensions
Media
Supported media....................................
Device charging......................................
Device Control.......................................
Remote Charging....................................
Inputs
Auxiliary................................................
USB......................................................
Outputs
Pre-Out..................................................
12V Trigger............................................
Power
Output voltage @ 2 Ohm.........................
Output voltage @ 4 Ohm.........................
Operation voltage....................................
Max current draw....................................
Standby current draw..............................
Multi-Environment Certifications
Waterproof / Dustproof............................
Conformal PCB coating...........................
UV protection.........................................
Salt/Fog protection.................................
Stainless Steel mountings.......................
Bluetooth Audio / USB / MP3 / FM / AUX
via USB
via Handheld RF Remote Control (included) or Wired Remote Control (sold separately)
via cable
1x stereo pair RCA
1x USB
2x stereo pair RCA (4V)
2x 12V DC Triggers (3A)
4x 72W
4x 45W
9.6V - 14.4V DC
7A
6mA
Yes - IP65
Yes
500 hours stable, ASTM D4329 compliant
500 hours stable, ASTM B117 compliant
Yes
6.1 Specifications
202.51mm
59.5mm
137.51mm
46mm
Specifications & Dimensions BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
15www.aquaticav.com

Aquatic AV offers a limited warranty of our products on the following terms:
Length of warranty
2 years on audio systems, electronics, speakers, and accessories (receipt required).
Coverage
This warranty covers only the original purchaser of an Aquatic AV product purchased from an
authorized Aquatic AV dealer. In order to receive service, the purchaser must provide Aquatic AV
with a copy of the receipt stating the customer name, dealer name, product purchased and date
of purchase.
Defective products
Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced (with a
product deemed to be equivalent) at Aquatic AV’s discretion.
What is not covered
Damage caused by accident, abuse, improper operations or theft. Any cost or expense related to
the removal or reinstallation of product. Service performed by anyone other than an authorized
Aquatic AV service center. Any product with the serial number or tamper labels defaced, altered,
or removed. Subsequent damage to other components. Any product not purchased from an
authorized Aquatic AV dealer.
Limit on implied warranties
Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are limited
in duration to the period of the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow
limitations on the length of an implied warranty, so this limitation may not apply. No person is
authorized to assume for Aquatic AV any other liability in connection with the sale of the product.
How to obtain service
You must obtain a return material authorization number (RMA) to return any product to Aquatic
AV. You are responsible for shipping charges of returned products to Aquatic AV.
Please record the model and serial number[s] of your equipment in the space provided below as
your permanent record and will assist us with your factory warranty coverage. These numbers can
be found on the rear of the BlueCube+ Media Player.
Model number[s]: Serial number[s]:
Warranty Information BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
16www.aquaticav.com

FCC ID:
MADE IN CHINA
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
NOTE:
The 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 in a 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 that interference will not occur in a
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.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized
modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the user authority to operate
the equipment.
Product design and specification subject to change without notice. E&OE.
Doc V2.2
WARNING: This product contains
chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
For more information: www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
California Proposition
65 Warning
FCC Statement BlueCube+ Media Player AQ-BC-6UBT-X
17www.aquaticav.com

E-mail: [e-mail]
US & Canada: 1 877 579 2782
International: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.aquaticav.com
Aquatic AV
282 Kinney Drive
San Jose, CA 95112, USA