Ashly 3.04 User manual

ASHLY AUDIO INC.
847 Holt Road Webster, NY 14580-9103 Phone: [phone]
Toll-Free: [phone] Fax: [phone] ashly.com
Power Amplifiers
Operating Manual
nX, nXe, nXp Series
Models 3.04, 3.02, 1.54, 1.52

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
2
WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED
Important Safety Instructions
Consignes de sécurité à lire attentivement
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 instructions in the literature ac-
companying the device.
Le symbole de la flèche dans un triangle équilateral symbolisant la foudre
est prévu pour sensibiliser l’utilisateur à la présence de tension de voltage
non isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil. Elle pourrait constituer un danger de
risque de décharge électrique pour les utilisateurs. Le point d’exclamation
dans le triangle équilatérale alerte l’utilisateur de la présence de consignes
qu’il doit d’abord consulter avant d’utiliser l’appareil.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to
rain or moisture.
6. Do not use this apparatus near water.
7. Clean only with dry cloth.
8. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manu-
facturer’s instructions.
9. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus.
10. 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 are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
12. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufacturer.
13. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specied 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.
14. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
15. Refer all servicing to qualied 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.
1. Lisez ces instructions.
2. Conservez ces instructions.
3. Observez les avertissements.
4. Suivez ces instructions.
5. Pour réduire le risque de feu ou la décharge électrique, ne pas exposer cet
appareil pour pleuvoir ou l'humidité.
6. Ne pas utiliser l’appareil près de l’eau.
7. Le nettoyer à l’aide d’un tissus sec.
8. Ne pas bloquer les ouvertures de ventilation, installer selon les consignes du
fabricant.
9. Eloigner des sources de chaleur tel: radiateurs, fourneaux ou autres appareils
qui produisent de la chaleur.
10. Ne pas modier ou amputer le système de la mise à terre. Une prise avec
mise à terre comprend deux lames dont une plus large ainsi qu’une mise à
terre: ne pas la couper ou la modier. Si la prise murale n’accepte pas la che,
consulter un électricien pour qu’il remplace la prise désuète.
11. Protéger le cordon de secteur contre tous bris ou pincement qui pourraient
l’endommager, soit à la che murale ou à l’appareil.
12. N’employer que les accessoires recommandés par le fabricant.
13. N’utiliser qu’avec les systèmes de xation,chariots, trépied ou autres, ap-
prouvés par le fabricant ou vendus avec l’appareil.
14. Débrancher l’appareil lors des orages électriques ou si inutilisé pendant une
longue période de temps.
15. Un entretient effectué par un centre de service accrédité est exigé si
l’appareil a été endommagé de quelque façon: si il a été exposé à la pluie,,
l’humidité ou s’il ne fonctionne pas normalement ou qu’il a été échappé.

3
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
FCC Compliance
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
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation
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 in both a commercial and 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.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help..
Warning:
This device is capable of producing output which can create very high sound pressure levels (SPL) from loudspeakers, which over time can lead to hearing loss.
The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published guidelines for protection against the effects of occupational noise exposure.
Please refer to the following OSHA table for safe noise exposure limits, and always take precautions to avoid excessive exposure to loud environments.
Sound level
(dBA, slow response)
Maximum Duration
(Hours per day)
90 8
92 6
95 4
97 3
100 2
102 1 1/2
105 1
110 1/2
115 1/4 or less
Unpacking
As a part of our system of quality control, every Ashly product is carefully inspected before leaving the factory to ensure
flawless appearance. After unpacking, please inspect for any physical damage. Save the shipping carton and all packing ma-
terials, as they were carefully designed to reduce to a minimum the possibility of transportation damage should the unit again
require packing and shipping. In the event that damage has occurred, immediately notify your dealer so that a written claim
to cover the damages can be initiated.
The right to any claim against a public carrier can be forfeited if the carrier is not notified promptly and if the shipping carton
and packing materials are not available for inspection by the carrier. Save all packing materials until the claim has been settled.
About Ashly
Ashly Audio was founded in 1974 by a group of recording engineers, concert sound professionals, and electronics designers. The
first products were elaborate custom consoles for friends and associates, but business quickly spread to new clients and the business
grew. The philosophy we established from the very beginning holds true today: to offer only the highest quality audio tools at an af-
fordable cost to the professional user – ensuring reliability and long life. Many years later, Ashly remains committed to these principles.
Ashly’s exclusive Five Year, Worry- Free Warranty remains one of the most generous policies available on any com-
mercial- grade product. The warranty covers every product with the Ashly brand name, and is offered at no extra cost to you.
Please read this entire manual to fully understand the features and capabilities of this product.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
4
Table of Contents
1 Introduction .....................6
1.1 Amplier Series. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2 nX Installation Requirements .......7
2.1 AC Mains Voltage, Power, and Current. . 7
2.2 Input Signal Wiring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Output Speaker Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.4 Remote Control Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5 AUX Output Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.6 Mechanical.....................9
2.7 Cooling .......................9
3 nX Amplier Protection ...........10
4 Front Panel Features (all models) . . . 10
4.1 Mounting Holes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.2 Air Inow Vents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.3 Factory Reset/Sleep Mode Switch . . . . 10
4.4 Channel Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.5 Channel LED Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.6 Amplier Status LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.7 Power Sitch/LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.8 Series and Model Labels . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5 Rear Panel Features (nX Series) . . . . 12
5.1 Channel Conguration DIP Switch . . . . 12
5.2 Euroblock Input Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.3 Remote DC Level Control . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.4 Combo Input Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.5 Bridge Mode Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.6 SpeakON® Output Jacks . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.7 PowerCON® AC Mains Connector . . . . . 12
5.8 Serial Number Sticker . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6 Rear Panel Features (nXe Series) . . . 13
6.1 Ethernet Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.2 Network Audio Module Option . . . . . . . 13
6.3 Standby Contact Closure . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.4 Fault Logic Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.5 Preset Recall Contact Closure . . . . . . . 13
6.6 Serial Data Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.7 Aux Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.8 AES3 Digital Audio I/O Option. . . . . . . 13
7 Rear Panel Features (nXp Series) . . . 14
7.1 Installed DSP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8 Ethernet Communications . . . . . . . 14
8.1 IP Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.2 Firewalls......................14
8.3 Wi-Fi and LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.4 Connecting Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
*NOTE: Sections 9-13 are not included in
the printed manual shipped with nX am-
pliers. The complete owner's manual is
available as a PDF le on the Ashly Web-
site. For best results when viewing and
navigating the PDF le, enable the PDF
Bookmarks.
9 Proteane Software ................15
9.1 Installing and Using the Software . . . . 15
9.1a Ashly Network Tree. . . . . . . . . . . . 15
9.1b Ashly Project Canvas . . . . . . . . . . 15
9.1c File Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
9.1d Network Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
9.1e Project Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
9.1f Add Item Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
9.1g Options Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
9.1h Flash Programmer Menu . . . . . . . . 17
9.1i Load Analysis Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
9.1j Help Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
9.2 nX Device Options Menu . . . . . . . . . . 18
9.2a Flash Reprogram Mode . . . . . . . . . 18
9.2b Link Group Conguration. . . . . . . . 18
9.2c Power On Delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9.2d Idle Time Before Sleep . . . . . . . . . 19
9.2e Fault Pin Conguration . . . . . . . . . 19
9.2f Factory Installed Options . . . . . . . . 19
9.2g Clear All Stored Presets. . . . . . . . . 19
9.2h Sample Rate and Master Clock. . . . 19
9.2i DVCA Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9.2j DSP Enable/Disable . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9.3 nX Preset Options Menu . . . . . . . . . . 19
9.3a Sub Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9.4 Device Control Tabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9.4a Software Control Surface. . . . . . . . 20
9.4b Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9.4c Network Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9.4d DSP Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
9.4d - Pluggable DSP Blocks . . . . 23-38
9.4d - I/O Matrix Router . . . . . . . . . . 39
9.4d - Matrix Mixer and Auto Mixer. . . 39
9.4e Input Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
9.4f Metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
9.4g Event Scheduler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
9.4h Fault Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

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Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
10 nX Remote Control Functions . . . . . 42
10.1 On/Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
10.2 Power Switch Disable . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
10.3 Front Panel Disable . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
10.4 Sleep Clock Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
10.5 Preset Recall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
10.6 Gain Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
10.7 Channel Mute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
10.8 Zone Source Selection . . . . . . . . . . . 44
11 Ashly Remote Control Devices . . . . 45
11.1 WR-1 Level Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
11.2 WR-1.5 Level and Preset Recall . . . . . 45
11.3 WR-2 Preset Recall Switches . . . . . . . 45
11.4 WR-5 Programmable Button Control. . 46
11.5 RD-8C Serial Data Fader Controller . . 46
11.6 neWR-5 Programmable Button Control . 47
11.7 FR-8/FR-16 Networked Fader . . . . . . 47
11.8 INA-1 Inline RS-232 Adapter. . . . . . . 47
12 AES3 Digital Audio Input/Pass-Through 48
12.1 Source Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
12.2 Cable Specication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
12.3 Hardware Status Indicators. . . . . . . . 48
12.4 Software Status Indicators . . . . . . . . 48
13 Network Audio Options ..........49
13.1 CobraNet ....................49
13.1a CobraNet Conguration . . . . . . . . 50
14 nX Amplier Troubleshooting . . . . . 52
15 nX Amplier Specications .......54
16 Limited Warranty ...............58
17 nX Amplier Block Diagram.......59

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
6
 1 INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your purchase of this Ashly nX, nXe, or nXp power amplifier. This product uses state of the art, light
weight, high power, high efficiency switching technology developed through years of design and field testing. nX amplifiers
are available in the following three series, designed to meet the most demanding live sound and fixed installation sound systems
in stadiums, arenas, performance venues, worship spaces and convention centers.
Series
1,500W @ 2 Ohm
2 and 4 channel models
3,000W @ 2 Ohm
2 and 4 channel models
nX - Base Series nX1.52 & nX1.54 nX3.02 & nX3.04
nXe - Networkable nXe1.52 & nXe1.54 nXe3.02 & nXe3.04
nXp - Network + DSP nXp1.52 & nXp1.54 nXp3.02 & nXp3.04
 nX Base Series Standard Features
• Two or four channel high power, lightweight amplifier design
• Individually configurable speaker outputs for Low-Z (to 2 Ohm), or High-Z (70V or 100V) via rear panel dip switches
• Front panel power switch and level controls, defeatable
• Front panel LEDs for temperature, current, signal, clip, mute, bridge mode, protect, sleep, and disable
• Combo XLR - 1/4" jack and Euroblock connectors on all inputs
• SpeakON® twist locking loudspeaker connectors for security, safety, and reliability
• Back panel DIP switches per-channel for selection of hipass filter, limiter, input gain, and speaker output configuration
• Remote DC level control per channel
• PowerCON® detachable AC mains connector with automatic 120V/240V select
• Power-saving automatic sleep mode, less than 1W, defeatable
• Continuously variable cooling fan(s)
• Extensive protection circuitry
• Independent amplifier and power supply circuitry
• Five year warranty
 nXe Network Series Additional Features
• Ethernet control and monitoring of amplifier functions, with front panel COM activity LED
• iPad "Ashly Remote" application available for custom design of end user wireless control interface
• Serial data port for Ashly serial remote control devices such as the WR-5 or RD-8C
• Optional RS-232 data converter for third party controllers such as Crestron
• Software defeatable power switch and level controls
• Standby mode, 30% reduction from idle, triggered on or off by contact closure, software control, or event scheduler
• Programmable power-on delay for Off-to-On or Sleep-to-On transitions
• Preset recall via contact closure, software control, remote control, or event scheduler
• Aux preamp outputs
• Fault condition logic outputs
• Optional Cobranet® network audio and AES3 digital audio input with pass-through
 nXp Network + DSP Series Additional Features
• Protea DSP with dynamics, gain, equalization, matrix mixer, crossover, delay, metering, and signal generator functions
• Impedance monitoring of individual amplifier outputs for quick and easy diagnosis of potential speaker problems
• iPad control of select DSP functions including gain, mute, matrix, A/B source select, PEQ filter level, and meters
• Networkable remote gain and zone control using Ashly neWR-5 and FR-8/16

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Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
 2 nX INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
Before connecting to mains power, make sure that the mechanical installation, cooling requirements, wiring, controls,
and software are all set to the configuration needed for your particular application. Failure to do so could result in damage to
the unit or other components in the system.
2.1 AC Mains Voltage, Power, and Current Requirements
This amplifier will auto-detect mains voltage at either 120VAC or 240VAC. At nominal 120VAC mains, the allowed
operating range is 70VAC to 135VAC to allow for brownouts or power surges, and for 240VAC the operating range is 140VAC
to 270VAC. Use only the provided AC cord or equivalent to connect to AC mains. Programmable Power-On Delay is available
on nXe and nXp series amplifiers. All nX models have a fixed, non-defeatable warm-up delay of about three seconds to protect
against excessive in-rush current when first powered up or when waking from sleep. The model number and power consumption
are indicated on the back panel label placed above the AC inlet. To reduce the risk of ground loop hum, all sound system ground
references should originate at the same AC power distribution point. Do not lift or remove the amplifier power cord ground pin.
AC Mains Connector Types - The following table shows the AC mains plug type supplied with each nX amplifier
model, as well as the required receptacle. A detachable 20A Neutrik PowerCON® mains chassis connector is installed on all
models except for nX 3.04, which uses a 30A PowerCON®.
nX 1.52 nX 1.54 nX 3.02 nX 3.04
120V Plug/Receptacle Nema 5-15 Nema 5-20 Nema 5-20 Nema L5-30 (locking)
240V Plug/Receptacle Schuko 16A Schuko 16A Schuko 16A Schuko 16A
Total Mains Power Draw and Maximum Current Draw - Total AC power consumption and maximum
120VAC current draw are shown below, measured at 1/8th maximum output power under typical amplifier status and load condi-
tions, all channels driven using typical audio signal. For 240V current, divide 120V values in half.
Total Power Draw
(Maximum Current@120V)
nX 1.52 nX 1.54 nX 3.02 nX 3.04
Sleep <1W (100mA) <1W (100mA) <1W (100mA) <1W (100mA)
Standby 40W (0.70A) 70W (1.30A) 40W (0.70A) 70W (1.30A)
Idle (no input signal) 55W (1.0A) 100W (1.85A) 55W (1.0A) 100W (1.85A)
1/8th Max Power @70V 625W (8.0A) 1250W (16.0A) 940W (12.1A) 1880W (24.1A)
1/8th Max Power @100V 520W (6.7A) 1040W (13.4A) 520W (6.7A) 1040W (13.4A)
1/8th Max Power @8 Ohm 520W (6.7A) 1040W (13.4A) 520W (6.7A) 1040W (13.4A)
1/8th Max Power @4 Ohm 625W (8.0A) 1250W (16.0A) 770W (9.9A) 1540W (19.7A)
1/8th Max Power @2 Ohm 625W (8.0A) 1250W (16.0A) 1150W (14.7A) 2300W (29.5A)

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
8
2.2 Input Signal Wiring
Use shielded wiring for balanced or unbalanced audio signals. Shielding which is properly grounded will protect the
signal from outside electrical interference such as RF, fluorescent lighting, and computer/display emissions. Unbalanced or
single-ended (tip-sleeve) lines of less than 10 feet are generally ok, but for greater distance or noisy field environments, always
use balanced signal.
Each channel's Euroblock, 1/4" phone jack, and XLR inputs are wired in parallel, with XLR pin 2 (+) and pin 3 (-). When
using an unbalanced input, wire the hot signal to the input (+) euroblock pin, phone jack tip, or XLR pin 2, and also be sure to
wire the input (-) pin, phone jack ring, or XLR pin 3 to ground. Do not leave the (-) input unconnected. Avoid running low
level signal wires in close proximity or parallel to long speaker cables, AC power cables, or power transformers, as they can
induce hum or oscillation.
2.3 Output Speaker Wiring
nX amplifier outputs use Neutrik SpeakON® connectors because they are safe, secure, reliable, and fully enclosing all hazard-
ous voltage.
Wire guage: nX amplifiers are capable of delivering high levels of output current, so the wire gauge used for speaker outputs is
important. Inadequate wire gauge, especially over long distance, adds significant resistance to the speaker’s own impedance, reducing
the power which is actually delivered to the speaker. It could also result in a decreased damping factor and potential fire hazard. Since
power at the speaker load is of primary concern in system design, refer to the table below to best determine appropriate wire gauge for
your application. The following table lists the resistance per 100 feet of common copper wire gauges, and also lists the percentage of
the speaker load power which would be lost as heat in an arbitrary 100 ft run of different gauges of 2-conductor copper speaker wire.
Wire gauge resistance/power loss for 100ft speaker cable
Wire Gauge Ohms/100ft 8 Ohm load 4 Ohm load 2 Ohm load
#8 .0605 Ohms 0.8% 1.5% 3%
#10 .1018 Ohms 1.3% 2.5% 5%
#12 .1619 Ohms 2.0% 4.0% 8%
#14 .2575 Ohms 3.2% 6.4% 12.8%
#16 .4094 Ohms 5.1% 10.2% 20.4%
#18 .6510 Ohms 8.1% 16.3% 32.6%
This table expresses the power loss as a percentage of the load’s power rather than the total amplifier output power in
order to accurately determine power loss at other cable lengths. For example, if you plan to deliver 150 watts to an 8 Ohm load
through 50 ft of 14 ga. cable, the power loss in the cable would be half that of a 100 ft run of #14 wire as shown in the table,
or 1.6% of 150W, which is an insignificant 2.4 watts. However, if you were to run 200 ft of 18 ga. cable to a 2 Ohm load, the
loss would be twice that of the 100 ft run shown in the table, or 65.2% of 250W, which is 163 watts lost as heat. Always be
sure to use adequate gauge speaker wire.
2.4 Remote Control Wiring
Remote DC level control (all models) - Unshielded bell or telephone wire is sufficient for DC level control, as is
CAT5 cable. The V+ and GND pins from one amplifier channel can be shared with other remote DC level controls wired to
the same amplifier, however do not connect this ground to any external grounds.
Remote Standby (nXe and nXp only) - This is a logic level signal, use unshielded low gauge wire.
Fault (nXe and nXp only) - This is also a logic level signal, unshielded low gauge wire is adequate.
Preset (nXe and nXp only) - This is also a logic level signal, unshielded low gauge wire is adequate.
Data (nXe and nXp only) - Four conductor telephone wire is suitable, as well as CAT5, but if shielded wiring is used
be sure to ground the source end of the shield. Under no circumstances should shielding be left unconnected to ground, as the
added line capacitance will degrade the data signal. Maximum data cable distance is 1,000 ft (305m).

9
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
2.5 Aux Output Wiring (nXe and nXp only)
The aux outputs are pseudo-balanced, meaning they use single ended signal (+) but with balanced impedance, and can be
wired balanced or unbalanced. Always use shielded cable for audio signals.
2.6 Mechanical
Each amplifier model is 2RU, and is designed to fit in a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Use four screws when mounting
the amplifier to the front rack rails. Rear support is recommended for mobile or touring use (see mechanical drawing below).
In some installations where the sound system is exposed to a high level of RF noise or system-induced oscillation, it may be
necessary to ground the amplifier’s chassis to the rack enclosure. This is accomplished using star type lockwashers on the four
rack mounting screws, placed between the amplifier chassis and the rack rails. These star washers will penetrate through the
amplifier and rack rail finish to adequately ground the chassis to the rack.
2.7 Cooling
Air vents on the amplifier front and side panels must have access to free flowing room temperature air. Cool air is drawn
in through the sides and blown out the front. It is not necessary to leave empty rack spaces above or below the amplifier. See
the BTU/hr chart below for amplifier thermal output characteristics.
Maximum Thermal Output in BTU/hr
nX 1.52 nX 1.54 nX 3.02 nX 3.04
Sleep Mode <3.4 <3.4 <3.4 <3.4
Standby Mode 136 238 136 238
Idle (no signal) 187 340 187 340
1/8th Max Power @70V 850 1700 1110 2220
1/8th Max Power @100V 710 1420 710 1420
1/8th Max Power @8 Ohm 710 1420 710 1420
1/8th Max Power @4 Ohm 850 1700 905 1810
1/8th Max Power @2 Ohm 850 1700 1360 2720
2.6 nX Dimensional Drawing

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
10
 3 nX AMPLIFIER PROTECTION
Power-On Delay - All models have a fixed and undefeatable warm-up delay of three seconds when first powered on or
awakened from sleep. This is necessary to prevent excessive in-rush current during start-up. Additionally, nXe and nXp amplifiers
have programmable Power-On Delay ranging from zero to 25 seconds in 100ms increments (see section 9.2).
Thermal Protection - Cooling fans are continuously variable, increasing in speed as the amp heats up. The fans are at their
maximum speed when an amplifier channel reaches 80% of it's safe operating temperature, and the Temp LED also turns on. At
90%, the Protect LED turns on to indicate that countermeasures are being applied to attenuate the input signal to the overheating
channel. A Temp LED turns on dim at first, then increases in brightness as the amp channel approaches maximum safe temperature.
100% critical temperature will shut down the amplifer.
Overpower Protection - To protect internal components against overpower conditions, a protection scheme in each output
stage reduces audio output power until the fault condition is no longer present.
Output DC and Rail Fault Protection – Output DC on any channel will trigger the Protect LED and mute that channel.
Voltage rail irregularities such as power supply pumping are also detected and compensated for in real time as the amp runs.
For more details of these protection schemes and indicators, see Troubleshooting in section 14.
 4 nX FRONT PANEL FEATURES (all models)
4.1 Mounting Holes – For mounting to a 19" equipment rack.
4.2 Air Vents – Cool air enters in through the amplifier sides and is vented out the front.
4.3 Factory Reset/Sleep Mode/Disable Switch – This recessed switch is used to perform a factory reset. It is also
used to set sleep mode and front panel disable status (see below). To perform a factory reset and return all amplifier settings to
their original factory defaults (without erasing presets) use a pencil point or equivalent to press and hold the switch during power
up until all channel LEDs sequence from bottom to top. Releasing the switch before the LED sequence is complete will cancel
the process. Upon completion, all LEDs turn off and the amplifier resumes normal operation.
Setting Sleep and Front Panel Disable Mode - The factory reset switch is also used to
select one of four sleep and front-panel-control-disable modes as illustrated to the right. The
default status is Sleep and Disable OFF (Mode 1). To advance to the next mode, press and
hold this switch when the amplifier is fully on, and the four mode combinations will cycle
and repeat. To select a mode, simply release the switch when the desired mode is displayed.
The Disable LED is lit any time the front panel controls are disabled, either by selecting
disable mode from this switch or using software control.
The sleep LED turns on during the mode-select cycle whenever sleep mode is enabled,
but turns back off as soon as the switch is released, remaining off unless the amp actually goes
to sleep. The current sleep mode status can be displayed when the amp is fully on by quickly
pressing and releasing the reset switch. If the sleep LED lights, sleep mode is active.

11
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
4.4 Channel Attenuators – These control the input signal level to the amplifier, and work in conjunction with the
remote DC fader level controls and the software control surface fader controls (if the amp is networked). When an input attenuator
is turned fully off, it's red Clip/Mute LED turns on and stays on to indicate mute status for that channel. The front panel attenuators
can be disabled, along with the power switch, using the factory reset switch as shown in section 4.3 or using software.
4.5 Channel LED Indicators
BRIDGE - This green LED indicates when the channel pair is configured to BRIDGE mode from the back panel
switch. Only the odd numbered input and level control for that channel pair is used.
TEMP - This yellow LED turns on when an amplifier channel has reached an operating temperature that is 80% of it's
maximum safe range, and the cooling fan(s) are at their maximum speed. The LED lights dimly at first and will glow brighter
if the temperature increases.
CURRENT - This green LED lights proportionately with the output current delivered to the speaker load.
SIGNAL - This green LED lights when the output voltage reaches -18dB from full output.
CLIP/MUTE - CLIPPING: The red LED indicates clipping when speaker output is 1dB below rated output, or when
the input preamp signal is clipped. MUTE: The LED indicates mute when the channel is muted or when it's level control is fully
attenuated. Additionally, the Clip/Mute LED is used along with the Protect LED to indicate an output DC fault (see section 14).
4.6 Amplifier Status LEDs
PROTECT - The red Protect LED initially turns on to indicate that real-time countermeasures are being applied to overpower,
overtemperature, or rail voltage fault conditions while the amp is still running. If those countermeasures are unsuccessful, the Protect
LED indicates an amplifier shut-down, and the power must be cycled before resuming normal operation. See section 14 for details .
SLEEP - This blue LED indicates that the amplifier is asleep. Sleep mode can be enabled as a power saving feature that
shuts down most amplifier circuits after a period of audio inactivity, reducing the amplifier's power consumption to less than 1 Watt.
An amplifier is awakened when there is audio signal present again, or when the power switch is pressed. Because the real-time-clock
is also shut down during sleep mode, the amplifier cannot be awakened by any software function, including the event scheduler.
Sleep mode is normally disabled, therefore must be enabled by the user. On nX series, the sleep clock timer is fixed
at 30 minutes, and is enabled by toggling through the four mode conditions of the factory reset switch as detailed in section
4.3. On networked nXe and nXp series, the sleep clock timer also defaults to 30 minutes, but is programmable under [Device
Options] with a range of 1-120 minutes. In all models, the presence of input signal above -24dBu (0.05Vrms) or pressing the
power switch will return the amplifier to normal operation. On all models, a fixed amplifier turn-on delay of three seconds is
necessary to manage in-rush current during power-up or waking from sleep. Sleep mode has priority over standby mode.
DISABLE - This yellow LED lights when the front panel power switch and level controls have been disabled. All front
panel controls are disabled together using the factory reset switch as described in section 4.3 , or in software using the amplifier's
main control surface (see section 9.4a).
COM - For nXe and nXp models only, this green LED lights whenever network communication occurs. Secondly, the COM
LED flashes for two seconds when the <Identify Device> software button for that device is clicked. (see section 9.1i) Lastly, the COM
LED becomes lit (along with the flashing power switch LED) during flash reprogram mode.
4.7 Power Switch/LED – This switch is used for powering the amplifier on or off or waking the amplifier from sleep.
The white switch LED lights solid when the amplifier is on, and flashes when in standby mode (nXe and nXp only). The power
switch can be disabled using the factory reset switch actions described in section 4.3 , or disabled from software (nXe and nXp only).
The three possible power switch LED conditions are:
1) Fully lit: The amplifier is powered up, even if the power switch has been disabled, in which case the disable LED will be on.
2) Flashing: The amplifier is in standby mode, or is in flash reprogram mode when the COM LED is also lit.
3) Fully off: The amplifier is either completely off, or it is in sleep mode, in which case the blue sleep LED will be on.
4.8 Series and Model Labels – The label on the left indicates the amplifier series, nX, nXe, or nXp. The label on
the right shows the amplifier model name.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
12
 5 nX SERIES REAR PANEL FEATURES
5.1 Channel Configuration DIP Switch - The DIP
switches configure each channel's 80Hz 2nd Order Hipass
Filter, Clip Limiter, Amplifier Gain, and Output Mode. In
the example to the right, the DIP switch is set as follows: 6:
80Hz High Pass Filter is Off; 5: Clip Limiter is On; 4&3:
Gain is 1.4V; 2&1: Output Mode is Low Z.
Note: The Gain setting of 1.4V means that a 1.4V input
will drive the amp to full output in any output mode. The other three Gain settings will
apply their respective amplifier gain regardless of output mode, so the actual input
voltage required to fully drive the amp will vary based on the selected output mode.
5.2 Euroblock Input Jack - Used for wiring a balanced input. If using an un-
balanced signal, wire the input signal to the (+) pin, the shield to (G), and wire the (-) input
pin to ground. Euroblock pins are wired in parallel to the 1/4" TRS and XLR combo jack.
5.3 Remote DC Level Control - Each channel has a potentiometer circuit available
for remote DC Level Control. The example to the right illustrates a typical DC level control application.
There is no limit to wire length, but do not use any other ground source. If multiple remote DC level
controls are used for different channels, the same ground and V+ sources can be shared.
5.4 Combo Input Jack - The combination 1/4" TRS and XLR jack (pin 2 hot) is
wired in parallel to the euroblock input. Do not float the TRS ring or XLR pin 3, connect it to (-)
signal or to ground (if unbalanced).
5.5 Bridge Mode Switch - This switch places an adja-
cent channel pair into bridge mode, combining two amplifier outputs
for more power to a single speaker load. Bridge mode uses only the
odd numbered input channel and level control, disabling the even
numbered input. Speaker outputs for bridge mode must be wired
according to the chart shown to the right. The bridge mode switch
button can be removed for added security by pulling it straight off.
5.6 SpeakON® Output Jacks - SpeakON® output
jacks provide safe, secure, and reliable loudspeaker connections,
while preventing outside contact with potential hazardous voltage. See the speaker wiring diagrams to the right (also on the back
panel) for nX amplifier SpeakON® pin and channel assignment.
5.7 PowerCON® AC Mains Connector - Always use the AC cord provided by Ashly for connecting to mains power.
The amplifier auto-detects mains voltage from 120VAC to 240VAC. WARNING: Do not remove or lift the mains connector ground.
5.8 Serial Number Sticker - This sticker identifies the product model number, serial number, MAC address (if
networkable), and AC mains current/power rating.
5.3 Remote DC Level Control
5.1 Channel Configuration DIP Switch
5.6 Speakon® Output Jack Wiring:
Two channel and four channel amplifiers
23456
ON
123456
ON
123456
ON
123456
ON
N X3 .0 4Model
1 2 0 V 5 0 /6 0H zMains Voltage
4.8A 360WMains Current/Pwr
1234567890Serial Number
00 -1 4-A A -01-35 -A DMAC Address
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 INPUT CH 2 INPUT
CV V+
CH 1 R EMO TE
SPEAKER
WIRING
BRIDGE
L IMI T GAIN MODE
HPF
1 2
3
4
5 6
DC LE VE L
CVV+
1
2
3
4
5
6
L IMI T GAIN MODE
HPF
CH 2 R EMO TE
DC LE VE L
SPEAKER OUTPUTS
CV V+
CH 3 R EMO TE
L IMI T GAIN MODE
HPF
1 2
3
4
5 6
CVV+
1
2
3
4
5
6
L IMI T GAIN MODE
HPF
CH 4 R EMO TE
ASHLY AUDIO INC
MADE IN USA
1+
2-
2+
1-
2
3
1
INPUT
CONNECTOR
WIRING
CH 3 INPUT CH 4 INPUT
BRIDGE
CH 1 or CH 3
CH 1/3+ (BRIDGE+)1+
CH 1/3-1- CH 2/4+ (BRIDGE-)2+
CH 2/4-2-
CH 2 or CH 4
CH 2/4+ (BRIDGE+)
CH 2/4-
CH 1/3+ (BRIDGE-)
CH 1/3-
DC LE VE L DC LE VE L
(CLASS 1 WIRING)
O N
O FF
O N
O FF
2 6 d B
3 2 d B
1 .4V
3 8 d B
LOW Z
70V
100V
N O T USE D
DIP SWITCH
SETTINGS
6 H P F 5 LI MI T 4 -3 G AIN 2 -1 MO DE
1 2 5 6 83 4 7

13
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
 6 nXe SERIES REAR PANEL FEATURES
The following nXe features are in addition to standard features found in nX series amplifiers:
6.1 Ethernet Port - This RJ-45 connector offers Ethernet control and monitoring of the amplifier using Proteane
software. See section 8 in this manual for details on Ethernet communications.
6.2 Network Audio - This is for an optional factory installed CobraNet® network audio module on
nXe and nXp models. Dante and AVB modules will also become available in the future. See section 13 for details.
6.3 Standby - The STBY pin, when connected to the ground pin (G) as shown, will remotely
place the amp into standby mode. When the connection is opened, the amplifier returns to normal opera-
tion. The front panel power switch will flash when the amplifier is in standby.
6.4 Fault - Four Fault pins are used with adjacent
ground (EG) and +5V pins for 5V logic outputs, and are
assigned in software <Device Options> to indicate an amplifier fault state. The
assignable fault conditions are overtemperature, rail voltage, and average power,
the same conditions that could place the amplifier into protect mode. Logic low
(0V) indicates fault condition. In the first example to the right, a remote red
LED is wired to F1 and +5V and turns on when a user-assigned fault condition
exists. F1 is normally high (+5V) but goes low (0V)
on fault. The second example uses a green LED wired
to F2 and EG to indicate no-fault, so the LED remains
on unless there is a fault. In the third example, a relay
circuit is driven by the F1 pin in order to switch on a
room or rack exhaust fan if the amplifier becomes se-
verely overheated. Maximum fault pin source current
is 20mA per pin. Maximum fault pin sink current is
200mA. Use an external +5V supply as shown if sink
current exceeds 200mA.
6.5 Preset - Each pin (P1 through P4) can be connected to the adjacent ground pin (G) via Ashly's WR-2 remote or other contact
closure to recall a stored preset or sub preset from the amplifier. Preset pins 1-4 correspond directly to amplifier presets 01 - 04.
6.6 Serial Data Connector - These four pins (G, +18, OUT, IN) are for connecting a serial data remote control such as an
Ashly WR-5 or RD-8C. Ashly also offers an in-line converter called the INA-1 which allows the data port to be used with third party RS-
232 controllers. A technical RS-232 protocol document is available on the Ashly website for third party developers. See more data remote
control application details in section 10.
6.7 AUX Outputs - These Euroblock connectors provide preamp signals for driving other amplifiers. See the block
diagram on page 59 for the differences between two and four channel amplifier AUX outputs. AUX outputs are pseudo-balanced,
meaning they use single ended signal with balanced impedance, and can be wire balanced or unbalanced.
6.8 AES3 Digital Audio I/O Option - This is used for Ashly's two or four channel AES3 input and pass-through
module, available as a factory installed option on nXe and nXp models. See section 12 for AES3 details.
6.4 Fault Logic Application Examples
6.3 Standby Switch
10/100
Ethernet
DATA LINK
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 INPUT CH 2 INPUT
CV V+
CH 1 R EMO TE
EG
F1 F2 F3
F4 P1 P2 P3 P4
G
O
U
T
IN
NETWORK AUDIO
SPEAKER
WIRING
BRIDGE
AUX OUTPUTSDATAFAULT(LOW) PRESET
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
1 2
3
4
5 6
S/N
DC LE VE L
CVV+
1
2
3
4
5
6
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
CH 2 R EMO TE
DC LE VE L
SPEAKER OUTPUTS
CV V+
CH 3 R EMO TE
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
1 2
3
4
5 6
CVV+
1
2
3
4
5
6
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
CH 4 R EMO TE
ASHLY AUDIO INC
MADE IN USA
G
1+
2-
2+
1-
+18
2
3
1
INPUT
CONNECTOR
WIRING
CH 3 INPUT CH 4 INPUT
BRIDGE
DCBA
CH 1 or CH 3
CH 1/3+ (BRIDGE+)1+
CH 1/3-1- CH 2/4+ (BRIDGE-)2+
CH 2/4-2-
CH 2 or CH 4
CH 2/4+ (BRIDGE+)
CH 2/4-
CH 1/3+ (BRIDGE-)
CH 1/3-
DC LE VE L DC LE VE L
INPUT
1 / 2 3 / 4 PASS-THROUGH 1 / 2 3 / 4
AES3
(CLASS 1 WIRING)
O N
O FF
O N
O FF
2 6 d B
3 2 d B
1 .4V
3 8 d B
LOW Z
70V
100V
N O T USE D
DIP SWITCH
SETTINGS
6 H P F 5 LI MI T 4 -3 G AIN 2 -1 MO DE
123456
ON
123456
ON
123456
ON
123456
ON
N XE 3 .0 4Model
1 2 0 V 5 0 /6 0H zMains Voltage
4.8A 360WMains Current/Pwr
1234567890Serial Number
00 -1 4-A A -01-35 -A DMAC Address
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
G
STBY
+5V
STBY

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
14
 7 nXp SERIES REAR PANEL FEATURES
*The following nXp features are in addition to all of standard features found in nX and nXe series amplifiers:
7.1 Installed DSP - Factory installed DSP allows for comprehensive signal processing of amplifier signals (section
9.4d) as well as loudspeaker load impedance analysis (section 9.1i).
 8 ETHERNET COMMUNICATIONS (nXe and nXp models only)
Ethernet communication is made by connecting the amplifier directly to a PC running Proteane software or connecting through a network
router, switch, hub, or patch panel using Cat-5, Cat-5e, or Cat-6 wiring. Maximum Ethernet cable distance is 100 meters (328 ft). Ashly nXe
and nXp amplifiers will adapt to either a straight through pin to pin or crossover Ethernet cable. For wireless iPad control using a custom "Ashly
Remote" user interface, the iPad must be connected to a wireless access point that is connected to the same network (subnet) as the amplifier.
8.1 IP Address - There is no need to assign an IP address to nXe amplifiers. The router or Link Local Addressing will
assign IP addresses to each device automatically.
When a router is not available, each amplifier will acquire it's own IP address based on Link Local Addressing. This
allows the device to operate without the need to set up static IP address. If the only option is to use an Ethernet switch instead
of a router, and communications problems remain which cannot be solved with the use of the link local standard, each device
can have a static IP address assigned from within Proteane software. This is done by selecting “Manual Configuration” in the
Network Properties tab of each device, where the system/network administrator must assign each product its’ own unique static
IP address, each with the appropriate sub net if applicable.
8.2 Firewalls - If Proteane software does not detect the amplifier or show real time changes, the firewall in the host PC may
need to have Proteane software added to its firewall exceptions, since firewalls may block the amplifier response to the PC. The current
PC firewall status is found by clicking on the Windows Start button, then Control Panel, then double clicking on the security shield where
firewall exceptions are configured.
8.3 Wi-Fi and LAN – For the initial device auto-configuration process, any secondary Wi-Fi connection should be
disabled on the PC, and the LAN (Local Area Network) connection must be enabled on the PC. Secondary network connections may
confuse the auto device discovery process. Go to the Windows Control Panel, then Network Connections, to disable any secondary
network connections. Once communications with the device is established, secondary network connections can be enabled again.
8.4 Connecting Device(s) - Connect the Ethernet cable from the PC or network to the amplifier. If a successful
Ethernet connection has been made, a solid green LED (Link) lights up on the amplifier's RJ-45 Ethernet port. If there is no
green LED showing, there is either a problem with the cable or the network source which must be addressed before proceeding
further. All RJ-45 Ethernet ports flash green when active, so backtrack through any other cables, routers, or switches to find
the problem. The flashing yellow LED (Data) indicates that data is flowing to or from the amplifier.
NOTE: Sections 9-13 (pages 15-51) are available only in the full PDF version
of the nX manual, found on the Ashly website.
Sections 9-13 include Protea NE Software, Remote Control,
AES3 Digital Audio Input, and Network Audio.
10/100
Ethernet
DATA LINK
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 INPUT CH 2 INPUT
CV V+
CH 1 R EMO TE
STBY
G
EG
F1 F2 F3
F4 P1 P2 P3 P4
G
O
U
T
IN
NETWORK AUDIO
SPEAKER
WIRING
BRIDGE
AUX OUTPUTSDATAFAULT(LOW) PRESET
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
1 2
3
4
5 6
S/N
DC LE VE L
CVV+
1
2
3
4
5
6
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
CH 2 R EMO TE
DC LE VE L
SPEAKER OUTPUTS
CV V+
CH 3 R EMO TE
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
1 2
3
4
5 6
CVV+
1
2
3
4
5
6
L IMI T GAIN MODE
H PF
CH 4 R EMO TE
ASHLY AUDIO INC
MADE IN USA
G
1+
2-
2+
1-
+18
2
3
1
INPUT
CONNECTOR
WIRING
CH 3 INPUT CH 4 INPUT
BRIDGE
DCBA
CH 1 or CH 3
CH 1/3+ (BRIDGE+)1+
CH 1/3-1- CH 2/4+ (BRIDGE-)2+
CH 2/4-2-
CH 2 or CH 4
CH 2/4+ (BRIDGE+)
CH 2/4-
CH 1/3+ (BRIDGE-)
CH 1/3-
DC LE VE L DC LE VE L
INPUT
1 / 2 3 / 4 PASS-THROUGH 1 / 2 3 / 4
AES3
(CLASS 1 WIRING)
O N
O FF
O N
O FF
2 6 d B
3 2 d B
1 .4V
3 8 d B
LOW Z
70V
100V
N O T USE D
DIP SWITCH
SETTINGS
6 H P F 5 LI MI T 4 -3 G AIN 2 -1 MO DE
123456
ON
123456
ON
123456
ON
123456
ON
N XE 3 .0 4Model
1 2 0 V 5 0 /6 0H zMains Voltage
4.8A 360WMains Current/Pwr
1234567890Serial Number
00 -1 4-A A -01-35 -A DMAC Address
1DSP Processing
Installed
+5V
STBY

15
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
 9 PROTEAne SOFTWARE
9.1 Installing and Using the Software
Ashly Proteane software is included on
a CD with each unit, and is also available
on the Ashly website. After installing the
software and starting the program, the startup
screen will appear as shown to the right, with
Ashly Network Tree, Project Canvas, and
Menu items described below:
9.1a Ashly Network Tree - The
Ashly Network device tree on the left side
of the software start-up screen is an accurate
reflection of all Ashly devices currently
installed on available networks. A green
device name means it is a live device, a
red device name means it was previously
installed but is now off-line, and a yellow
device name means it is live but configured
incorrectly. All Ashly devices broadcast
their availability to the software when they
start up. The user can also manually scan for
devices with <Scan For Devices> found below
the network device tree.
Devices can be dragged from the device tree and placed onto the project canvas as icons to simulate rack installation
groups, or be added as virtual devices using the [Add Item] menu command with [Design Mode] checked On. Editing a device
can be done from either the device tree or from it's representative icon on the canvas. All software changes made to a live
device are executed in real time.
The software automatically detects and displays controls for any installed device options. DSP, CobraNet, and AES3 are
currently available, and Dante and AVB network audio options will become available in the future.
Note: The user can find and verify a live device on the network by right clicking over the unit’s name or icon, and
then click <Identify> which will flash the device's Com LED for two seconds.
9.1b Ashly Project Canvas - The project canvas is used to represent a sound system installation as a visual project.
Networked devices can be dragged from the Network Tree onto the canvas and configured. Virtual devices can be added to the
canvas as well, configured, and later assigned to a live device (see section 9.1f). Live networked devices appear with a green
border, off-line network devices have a red border, and virtual devices appear without any border. The primary canvas is always
called "Ashly Project", but additional project files can be saved under different names.
Additional visual control objects such as level faders, LEDs, meter bars, preset, standby, mute, and source select but-
tons can be placed on the canvas and assigned to control a specific parameter on one or more devices in the project. Use [Add
Item>Control Objects>(object)] to place a control object on the canvas, then double-click or right-click to edit its properties. Use
[Add Item>Display Objects>] to place an image or text on the canvas. Additional drawing tools are found in the upper left corner
above the canvas and include lines and rectangles. The user can alternately right click anywhere on open canvas to add items.
Checking <Design Mode> allows placed objects to be moved around, while unchecking <Design Mode> locks objects in place.
9.1 - Proteane Software Startup Screen, Device Tree, and Project Canvas

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
16
9.1c File Menu - A project file (*.cpj) contains a snapshot of all current settings for live and virtual Ashly devices. It also
contains stand-alone control objects and their settings, as well as drawn or linked graphical objects placed on the project canvas.
[File>Open Project] - opens a project file (*.cpj) from the computer
[File>Save Project] - saves all data on the project canvas, and can additionally save all presets on devices in the project
[File>New Project] - clears the canvas, clears all data, and clears all project tabs other than the "Ashly Project" tab
[File>Print Setup] - This determines the target printer for an individual device's parameter settings report, available
by right-clicking on any live device in the device network tree. All current device settings are written into the printable report.
[File>Warnings] - These three software warning messages can be turned off; <DSP Channel Disable>, <Sampling
Frequency Change>, and <DSP Full>. Ashly recommends leaving all three warning messagess turned on.
[File>Log] - The Log Control allows the user to adjust what parameters are logged to the Ashly Event Logger, which
maintain a log of all changes made to a Proteane System while Proteane Software is running. For most users this is not important;
however, this does allow a user to know what has happened in the past to the system. The Event Logger uses the Windows
Event Handling System to log events, which can be viewed and cleared using the Windows Event Logger (Start>Control
Panel>Administrative Tools>Event Viewer>Protea NE Software).
9.1d Network Menu
[Network>Scan For Devices] - This command looks on the local network (using the broadcast address) for any Ashly
network enabled device. Any devices it finds will be added to the network device tree. This scan is done automatically when
the software is started. A button of the same name and function is also found beneath the network device tree.
[Network>Network Config] - Adjusts the metering refresh rate, server retries, server timeout, and heartbeat timer.
9.1e Project Menu
[Project>Tab Page>Add, Remove, Rename, and Clear] - Multiple project tabs can be used within the same project
to represent different racks, rooms, buildings, etc, and are managed using these four commands.
[Project>Save/Recall Preset To/From All Devices] - This is used to save or recall all device parameters in the cur-
rent project, based on preset number. When using <Save Preset to All Devices>, a unique preset file is created for each device
and saved to the same preset number across all devices, overwriting the current preset parameters for that number. When using
<Recall Preset From All Devices>, the chosen preset number will be recalled from each device.
9.1f Add Item Menu
[Add Item>Design Mode] - With Design Mode checked On, virtual Ashly devices can be placed on the canvas and
configured before connecting to the live network devices they will control. This way, a complete system installation can be
set up ahead of time in software and saved as a project to be applied later. To apply the prepared project file, use the following
steps:
1) Connect all Ashly devices to the network and launch the software, verifying that all devices appear green in the network device tree.
2) Open the project file and link one device at a time by dragging each network device from the device tree onto its virtual
device icon represented on the canvas. You will be prompted by the message <Copy all settings from canvas device to online
device?>, after which all virtual device settings will be applied to the live networked device. A live device icon on the canvas
is indicated by a green surrounding box, whereas a virtual device has no green surrounding box.
With Design Mode unchecked, all device icons, control objects, and display objects on the canvas are locked in place.

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Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
[Add Item>Control Objects] - Stand-alone control objects can be added to the canvas and linked to control specific
device functions. They include Level Fader, Signal LED, Level Meter, Preset Button, Standby Button, Mute Button, Logic Out
Button, and Source Select Button.
[Add Item>Display Objects] - Text and image files can be added to the canvas.
9.1g Options Menu
[Options>Auto Add Online Devices] - When this is checked On, all network devices appear on the canvas whenever
the software is launched or when the networked is scanned for devices.
[Options>Display Grid] - Turns on or off the project canvas grid
[Options>Auto-Close Preset Recall Messages] - Any device that recalls a preset will trigger a message that appears on
the canvas. If this is checked On, those messages will go away automatically, otherwise they will stay on the display until closed
by the user.
9.1h Flash Programmer Menu
[Flash Programmer>Launch Flash Programmer] - This is used to update the firmware on any networked Ashly
device. All available firmware update files can be downloaded from the Ashly website.
[Flash Programmer >Launch WR-5 Flash Programmer] - WR-5 firmware must be updated through its hosting
device, since WR-5 remote controls are not themselves networked. Download the new WR-5 firmware, select the host device,
and follow the instructions.
9.1i Load Analysis Menu - Load Analysis is a software tool used to visualize the swept AC impedance of a given
loudspeaker, and to test the integrity of a potentially damaged loudspeaker or connection. Load impedance analysis works by
formulation of speaker output measurements taken when a user defined swept sine wave input is applied to one amplifier chan-
nel by software. Currently, the only Ashly amplifiers with load analysis are NE two-channel (dsp) and nXp.
Loudspeakers are specified with a nominal impedance rating, 8 Ohms for example. This is an average rating, the actual
impedance across it's frequency range can vary substantially above or below 8 Ohms due to inductance, resonance, and other
properties which affect impedance . Lower impedance, even within a narrow frequency range, can increase the amount of am-
plifier current delivered to the speaker. This can present a problem when wiring multiple speakers in parallel, as the combined
speaker impedance may become so low that it causes the amplifier to go into overcurrent protection mode and shut down. The
way to avoid this is to pay attention to the lowest measured impedance rather than the nominal impedance rating for a given
speaker load, and make sure the amplifier is rated to drive that load.
A second function of load analysis is for troubleshooting loudspeakers. When loudspeakers are damaged by overheated
voice coils, torn cones or surrounds, mechanical damage from being dropped, or have corroded connections, they can exhibit
different load impedance characteristics than when new. An initial load impedance analysis can be performed when the system
is first installed and the results saved to disk for reference. Future load impedance tests can be compared to the original refer-
ence data and issue a pass/fail rating based on a user-defined percentage of similarity to the original data. Load anaylsis can
thus help determine if loudspeakers are damaged or disconnected, and can be administered from a remote network location.
Keep in mind that this test is a real time audible event, so be certain that all test parameters, particularly volume (sweep
level) and frequency range (sweep start/sweep stop), are suited for the speakers under test, and that the venue is ready for a brief
period of test tones at potentially significant volume. Note: During the test, all audio DSP processing in the amplifier is stopped.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
18
[Load Analysis>Launch Load Analysis] - This is the working window for performing a load analysis. The user must
first select an available networked amplifier from the <Analysis-Capable Amplifier> device tree, then select the output channel
to test, then apply the appropriate test settings.
Warning: Do not send low frequency test tones to
high frequency drivers or use excessive sweep level, always
be certain that the swept frequency range and output level
is within the safe operating range of the speaker under test.
Remember that all DSP functions are disabled, including
crossover filters and limiters. A sweep level setting of 1V
will produce a relatively quiet test tone into any speaker,
however load impedance characteristics can change at higher
volume levels, so test accordingly but carefully. Make
sure the Sweep Level and Sweep Start Frequency
are properly set for this loudspeaker before running
the test! Click on <Test Amplifier> and a series of tones
will be heard through the loudspeaker under test. The test
can be immediately cancelled by pressing the same button
again. When the test is finished, a plotted curve (yellow)
shows load impedance vs. frequency. Click <Set Ref.> to
establish this curve as a reference (red) baseline, or save the
data to disk for future tests.
Note: Running the load analysis tool when there is no
speaker connected to the amplifier is useful for learning about
the procedure, but provides no meaningful data.
9.1j Help Menu -
[Help>About Proteane Software] - Tells the software version
[Help>Contents and Index] - Online help for device function is found here, along with the ability to search for topics.
[Help>Capture Network Configuration] - While most people will not use this function, it can be helpful when
troubleshooting network problems or communicating with Ashly technical support.
9.2 nX Device Options Menu
Double-click on a nX amplifier in the Network tree or on the canvas.
9.2a Flash Reprogram Mode - A nX amplifier can be flash reprogrammed by
downloading a new program file (firmware) to the amplifier over the network. Latest firmware
updates, if available, can be found on the Ashly website. When the amplifier is put into flash
reprogram mode, all audio functions are suspended, the power switch LED flashes, and the COM
LED remains lit until flash reprogram is completed. Flash Reprogram only appears in the device
options menu when a live device is connected.
9.2b Link Group Configuration - Link groups allow DSP functions of the same
type to track each other across channels within a device. For example, if two separate EQ
controls on different channels are linked, any change made to either one of the equalizers
will result in an identical change to the other.
nX amplifiers support up to 16 Link Groups, and every DSP tool can be assigned to one of these groups. Once assigned
to a group, all similar DSP functions within that group will track parameter changes with each other. More than one type of
DSP function block can be assigned to the same group. Each link group can be assigned a name by the user, and can also be
assigned a color for easy identification. For further details about linking, see the online help in Proteane software.
9.2 Device Options
9.1i Load Analysis

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Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
9.2c Power On Delay - Use this feature to delay the amplifier turning on when first powered up or when waking from
sleep. Delay is measured in increments of 100mS, with the limit at 25.5 seconds. The power amplifier should be the last device
to power up after other system components have turned on and stabilized. Multiple amplifiers on the same circuit breaker should
have staggered Power-On Delays to avoid excessive in-rush current which can trip the breaker.
9.2d Idle Time Before Sleep - On nXe and nXp series amplifiers, the sleep clock timer can be set from 0 to 120 minutes
9.2e Fault Pin Configuration - On nXe and nXp models,
four logic output Euroblock pins can be assigned to respond to
overtemperature, rail voltage fault, and average power fault condi-
tions as shown to the right. See section 6.4 for application details.
9.2f Factory Installed Options (not shown) - Factory
installed options currently include AES3 and CobraNet. Options
are auto-detected on live amplifiers, but can be added to virtual
amplifiers when working in Design Mode.
9.2g Clear All Stored Presets - nXe and nXp only.
9.2h Sample Rate and Master Clock Source Selection:
Changes to both of these settings can be made by clicking the <Show Advanced Control> box in this menu item. Sample rate can
be set to either 48kHz or 96kHz. Note that at 96kHz, the DSP usage doubles, resulting in half the available processing power for
filters, delay, limiting, etc. Also note that the Feedback Suppressor cannot be used at 96kHz sample rate. Factory default settings
are Auto Selection for clock source and 48kHz sample rate.
9.2i DVCA Control - This feature is used in conjunction with the DSP tab gain tool called <Gain w/VCA>. Use this
feature to create up to four gain subgroups as you would on a mixing console. Any input or output channel can be added to one
or more VCA subgroups for group gain control. While no external hardware control is allowed for this subgroup, a level fader
control object can be added to the project canvas and linked to this named VCA level control.
9.2j DSP Enable/Disable - This removes from operation the input, output, or matrix mixer DSP functions on any
channel. When removed, audio is passed directly through the stage that has been disabled.
9.3 nX Preset Options Menu
The Preset Options menu in the main device window allows user-defined setups to be named,
saved to, and recalled from the amplifier or a networked computer. Several other utility functions are
available as well. Presets are a snapshot of all current settings on a given amplifier.
nX amplifiers can store up to 31 internal presets, each preset storing control data for all
channels and audio functions. Preset names must be 20 characters or less. Changes to an individual
preset can be saved to the amplifier using <Save Preset To "nX***">, or saved to the PC using
<Save PresetTo Disk>. Individual preset files use the extension (*.pne).
9.3a Sub Presets: Instead of saving or recalling an entire preset affecting all de-
vice functions, a sub-preset affecting only a user defined sub-set of DSP functions can be
created. To create a sub-preset, first check the box labeled <Selected for Sub-Presets> in
all DSP control blocks to be associated with this sub preset, then under the preset options
menu click <Save Sub Preset to Disk> or <Save Sub Preset to "nX***" >.
A preset or sub preset can be loaded to the amplifier by one of the following methods:
1) Use Proteane software on a PC connected to the network to recall files saved on
either the PC or on the amplifier.
2) Use contact closures to load presets 1-4 from memory by wiring switches to the rear panel contact closure connector.
9.3 Preset Options
9.2e Fault Pin Configuration

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp Power Ampliers
20
3) Use an Ashly WR-5 or neWR-5 remote control.
4) Use the event scheduler.
Note: A full preset recall event will overwrite any unsaved changes, so be sure the current configuration is saved before
continuing or any changes will be lost. The amplifier always loads the last working settings on power-up, to preserve any changes
should the power be inadvertently turned off prior to saving a preset. Caution: A new preset may have dramatically different
settings capable of damaging sound system components, so be careful not to recall the wrong preset while the system is on.
9.4 Device Control Tabs
The following device control tabs are available for each amplifier. The tabs include Control Surface, Security, Network
Properties, DSP, Input Source, Meters, Meter Dynamics, Meters AutoLeveler, Metering, Event Scheduler, and Fault Log.
9.4a Software Control Surface - Global
The control surface is the main user interface for the
amplifier section. DSP functions, if available, are managed from
the DSP tab. The following amplifier functions are available in
the control panel:
Name - The user defined name for this specific
amplifier. Up to 20 characters can be used.
Model - The model of amplifier being addressed
Power - Shows power status as On, Off, or Standby.
Power On/Standby - This shows power status and allows the user to set power to standby from software. Standby can
also be controlled by a rear panel contact closure or by the event scheduler. The front panel power switch blinks when in standby.
Front Panel Enable/Disable - This disables both the front panel power switch and all level controls, fixing the value of
all level controls at maximum (fully on) regardless of their position. Note that the software attenuators shown on the control surface
will always reflect the physical position of the amplifier's front panel attenuators, even when they are disabled and not attenuating the signal.
Remote Attenuator Enable/Disable - Disables all "Remote DC Level Control" Euroblock connectors on back panel
Protect - Channel Thermal - This tracks the front panel TEMP LED, lit when amp temperature is 80% of maximum
allowed. At 90% of maximum, attenuation is applied to the overheating channel. (see section 3 or section 14)
Protect - Channel Average Power - This shows that the amplifier has automatically attenuated signal to prevent an
over-power output condition. (see section 3 or section 14)
Protect - Channel Rail Fault - This means there is an overvoltage or
undervoltage condition on the output DC power supply voltage rails. They are
outside of their specified tolerance range. (see section 3 or section 14)
Internal Amplifier Ambient - This indicates the internal temperature.
DIP Switch Settings - Each channel has a six position rear-panel DIP switch
for setting HPF, Limiter, Gain, and Output Mode. All current DIP switch positions
and parameters are displayed here on the software control surface.
9.4a - Control Surface Global Functions
9.4a - DIP Switch Settings