Ashly nX1504 User manual

ASHLY AUDIO INC.
847 Holt Road Webster, NY 14580-9103 Phone: [phone]
Toll-Free: [phone] Fax: [phone] ashly.com
All Trademarks referred to herein are the property of their respective owners.
2016 Ashly Audio, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide.
Operating Manual - NX 150W/75W Ampliers
nX Base Models: nX1504, nX1502, nX754, nX752
nXe Ethernet Models: nXe1504, nXe1502, nXe754, nXe752
nXp Ethernet+DSP Models: nXp1504, nXp1502, nXp754, nXp752

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
2
WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED
Important Safety Instructions
Consignes de sécurité à lire attentivement
The lightning ash 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 sufcient 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 èche 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 manufacturer’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 ground-
ing 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 par-
ticularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they
exit from the apparatus.
12. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufac-
turer.
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 ob-
jects 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, approuvés 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 150W/75W 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 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 Dura-
tion
(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 awless appearance.
After unpacking, please inspect for any physical damage. Save the shipping carton and all packing materials, 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 notied 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 rst 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 affordable cost to the professional user – ensuring reli-
ability 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 commercial- 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 150W/75W Power Ampliers
4
Table of Contents
1 Introduction .....................6
2 nX Installation Requirements .......7
2.1 AC Mains Voltage, Power, and Current. . 7
2.2 Input Signal Wiring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.3 Output Speaker Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4 Remote Control Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5 AUX Output Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.6 Mechanical.....................8
2.7 Cooling.......................9
3 nX Amplier Protection ............9
4 Front Panel Features (all models) . . . 10
4.1 Mounting Holes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.2AirVents .....................10
4.3 Factory Reset/Sleep Mode Switch . . . . 10
4.4 Bridge Mode LED Indicator . . . . . . . . . 10
4.5 Channel LED Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.6 Amplier Status LEDs ............11
4.7 Power Switch/LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.8 Series and Model Labels . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5 nX Base Series Rear Panel.........12
5.1 Channel Conguration DIP Switch . . . . 12
5.2 Euroblock Input Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.3 Remote DC Level Control . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.4 Channel Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.5 Bridge Mode Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.6 Euroblock Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.7 AC Mains Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.8 Serial Number Sticker . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6 nXe Network Series Rear Panel .......13
6.1 Ethernet Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.2 Digital/Network Audio Option . . . . . . . 13
6.3 Standby Contact Closure . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.4FaultPins.....................13
6.5 Preset Recall Contact Closure . . . . . . . 13
6.6 Serial Data Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.7 Aux Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
7 nXp Network + DSP Series Rear Panel . . 14
7.1 Installed DSP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
7.2 Digital/Network Audio Option . . . . . . . 14
8 Ethernet Communications . . . . . . . 14
8.1 IP Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.2Firewalls......................14
8.3 Wi-Fi and LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.4 Connecting Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
*NOTE: Sections 9-13 (p15-51)
are NOT included in the printed
manual shipped with nX ampliers.
The complete owner's manual is avail-
able 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
9.2f 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

5
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
10 nX Remote Control Functions . . . . . 42
10.1 On/Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
10.2 Front/Rear Panel Controls Disable . . . 42
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
11.9 Ashly Remote App for iPad®.......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
13.2 Dante™.....................51
14 nX Amplier Troubleshooting . . . . . 52
15 nX Amplier Specications .......54
16 Limited Warranty ...............58
17 nX, nXe, and nXp Block Diagrams . 59

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
6
 1 INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your purchase of this Ashly nX, nXe, or nXp multi-mode power amplier. Each speaker output can be cong-
ured for low impedance (2, 4, or 8 Ohm), or 25V, 70V, or 100V constant voltage output. This amplier uses state of the art,
light weight, high power, high efciency switching technology with active power-factor-correction, developed through years
of design and eld testing. NX ampliers are available in the following three series, designed to meet the most demanding live
sound and xed installation sound systems in stadiums, arenas, performance venues, worship spaces and convention centers.
Series
150W per channel
4 and 2 channel models
75W per channel
4 and 2 channel models
nX - Base Series nX1504 & nX1502 nX754 & nX752
nXe - Networkable nXe1504 & nXe1502 nXe754 & nXe752
nXp - Network + DSP nXp1504 & nXp1502 nXp754 & nXp752
 nX Base Series Standard Features
• Two or four channel lightweight design
• Universal input switch mode power supply with active power factor correction (PFC) that operates from 70VAC to 270VAC
• Individually congurable speaker outputs for low-impedance (2, 4, or 8 Ohm), or 25V, 70V, or 100V constant voltage
• Power-saving automatic sleep mode, less than 1W, defeatable
• Rear panel DIP switch per channel for selection of hipass lter, limiter, input gain, and speaker output mode
• Front panel power switch, defeatable
• Rear panel level controls, defeatable
• Front panel LEDs for temperature, current, signal, clip, mute, bridge mode, protect, sleep, and power switch disable
• Euroblock connectors on all inputs and outputs
• Remote DC level control per channel
• Detachable AC mains line-cord connector with automatic 120V/240V select
• Continuously variable cooling fan
• Amplier protection: Shorted output power limiting, over-temperature, power supply fault, DC-output, mains fuses & inrush current limiting
• Five year warranty
 nXe Network Series Additional Features
• Ethernet control and monitoring of amplier functions using Proteane software, front panel COM activity LED
• Ashly Remote app for iPad®, iPhone®, or iPod Touch® 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 output per channel, fault indicated by loss of 1Hz "heartbeat" signal
• Optional factory installed Cobranet® or Dante™ network audio, or AES3 audio input with zero-latency pass-through
 nXp Network + DSP Series Additional Features
• Protea DSP including dynamics, gain, EQ, feedback suppression, FIR lters, matrix and auto-mixer, crossover, delay, and more
• Impedance monitoring of individual amplier 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 lter level, and meters
• Networkable remote gain and zone control using Ashly neWR-5 and FR-8/16

7
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
 2 nX INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
Before connecting to AC mains power, make sure that the mechanical installation, cooling requirements, wiring, controls, and
software are all set to the conguration needed for your particular application. Failure to do so could result in damage to the
unit or to other components in the system.
2.1 AC Mains Voltage, Power, and Current Requirements
The switch mode power supply (SMPS) with active power factor correction (PFC) auto-detects nominal mains voltage at 120VAC or
240VAC. Operating range is 70VAC to 270VAC. Use only the provided AC line cord to connect to AC mains. Programmable power-on
delay is available on nXe or nXp models. All models have a xed, non-defeatable warm-up delay of several seconds to protect against
in-rush current when rst powered up or when waking from sleep. The model number and power consumption are indicated on the
side panel label near the AC inlet. For best performance, all sound system ground references should originate at the same AC power
distribution point. For safety, do not lift or remove the amplier power cord ground pin.
Total Mains Power Draw and Maximum Current Draw - Total AC power consumption and maximum
120VAC current draw are shown in the specications table in section 15, measured at 1/8th maximum output power under typical
amplier status and load conditions, all channels driven using typical audio signal. For 240VAC current, divide 120VAC values in
half.
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, uorescent lighting, and computer/display emissions. Unbalanced or single-ended (tip-
sleeve) wiring should be less than 10 feet, longer lengths should use balanced wiring.
To connect an unbalanced input signal to the amplier input, wire the input (+) to the input (+) euroblock pin, and the input shield
to (-) and to ground. Do not leave the (-) input unconnected. If there is ground loop hum, try connecting the shield only to the (-)
input pin and leave the input ground pin oating. 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 and oscillation.
2.3 Output Speaker Wire
Connector type: This amplier uses a four-pin 300mil (7.62mm) Euroblock connector for speaker outputs. For bridged mode, use
the two center pins as labeled.
Wire class: Class 2 speaker wiring is sufcient to meet electrical code requirements, with the exceptions of 70V or 100V bridged
mode output, which requires class 3 wiring since output voltage may exceed 120V. This is based on UL 60065 section 5.2-d and the
US National Electrical Code Article 725. Consult local code for exact requirements.
Wire guage: Insufcient wire gauge, especially over long distance, adds resistance to the speaker’s own impedance, reducing the
power delivered to the speaker. 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 0.0605 Ohms 0.8% 1.5% 3%
#10 0.1018 Ohms 1.3% 2.5% 5%
#12 0.1619 Ohms 2.0% 4.0% 8%
#14 0.2575 Ohms 3.2% 6.4% 12.8%
#16 0.4094 Ohms 5.1% 10.2% 20.4%
#18 0.6510 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 amplier output power in order to ac-
curately 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 insignicant 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.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
8
2.4 Remote Control Wire
Remote DC level control (all models) - Unshielded bell or telephone wire is sufcient for DC level control, as is
CAT5 cable. The V+ and GND pins from one amplier channel can be shared with other remote DC level controls wired to the
same amplier, 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).
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 amplier model is 1RU, and is designed to t in a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Use four screws when mounting the
amplier to the front rack rails. Rear support is recommended for mobile or touring use (see mechanical drawing). 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 amplier’s chassis to the rack enclosure. This is accomplished using star type lockwashers on the four rack mounting
screws, placed between the amplier chassis and the rack rails. These star washers will penetrate through the amplier and rack
rail nish to adequately ground the chassis to the rack.
2.6 Dimensional Drawing

9
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
2.7 Cooling
Air vents on the amplier front and side panels must have access to free owing room temperature air. Cool air is drawn in
through the side and blown out the front. It is not necessary to leave empty rack spaces above or below the amplier. See the
BTU/hr chart in section 15 for specic thermal output characteristics. nXp models are used to illustrate worst case, nX and nXe
models will be slightly lower.
 3 nX AMPLIFIER PROTECTION
Power-On Delay - All models have a xed and non-defeatable warm-up delay of several seconds when rst powered on or awak-
ened from sleep. This is necessary to prevent excessive in-rush current during start-up. Additionally, nXe and nXp ampliers have
programmable Power-On Delay ranging from zero to 25 seconds in 100ms increments (see section 9.2).
Thermal Protection - The c ooling fan is continuously variable, increasing in speed as the amp heats up. The fan is at its maximum
speed when an amplier channel reaches 80% of its 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 rst, then increases in brightness as the amp channel approaches maximum safe temperature. 100%
critical temperature will shut down the amplier but allow the fan to still run.
Power Limit Protection - To protect internal components from excessive output power conditions, a protection scheme in each
output stage reduces audio output power until the fault condition is no longer present.
Output DC Protection - If DC is detected on an output, this is a critical fault and the main power supply is shut off to avoid
damage to circuitry or speakers. Output DC protection is indicated on the amplier front panel by the lighting of the protect
LED, sleep LED, plus the signal and clip LED on any channel that has output DC. A power cycle is required to clear an output
DC fault, using either the power switch or disconnecting the AC mains.
Power Supply Fault Protection- When the internal power supply voltage is outside its normal operating range, the protect
LED is lit and the amplier channels are muted. If the power supply voltage reaches a critical level, the main power supply is
shut off and the protect, sleep, and mute LEDs are lit. To clear power supply voltage fault protection, a power cycle is required
using either the power switch or by disconnecting the AC mains.
Note: Whenever protect and sleep LEDs are simultaneously lit, this indicates that the main power supply is disabled. The power
supply is disabled whenever there is a critical fault, or during initial power-up until the power supply has stabilized. For more
details of these protection schemes and indicators, see Troubleshooting in section 14.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
10
 4 nX FRONT PANEL FEATURES (all models)
4.1 Mounting Holes – Four front panel mounting holes for standard a 19" equipment rack.
4.2 Air Vents – Cool air enters in through the amplier sides and is blown out the front.
4.3 Factory Reset Switch, Sleep Mode, Disable Mode – This recessed switch is
used to perform a factory reset. It is also used to set sleep mode and disable user controls (see
below). To perform a factory reset and return all amplier settings to their original factory
defaults, use a pencil point or equivalent to press and hold the switch during power up until all
channel LEDs sequence from bottom to top. Factory reset will not erase stored user presets.
Releasing the switch before the LED sequence is complete will cancel the process. Upon
completion, all LEDs turn off and the amplier resumes normal operation.
Setting Sleep and Control Disable Mode - The factory reset switch is also used to select
one of four sleep and user control disable modes as shown to the right. The default status is
Sleep and Disable OFF (Mode 1). To advance to the next mode, press and hold the factory
reset switch when the amplier is fully on. The four possible mode combinations will cycle
through and repeat. To select a mode, release the switch when the desired mode is displayed.
The Disable LED is lit any time the power switch and rear panel level controls are disabled,
either by selecting disable mode from this switch or from software.
Sleep Mode Status Indicator: The blue sleep LED will turn on during the mode-selection process whenever sleep mode would
be enabled upon release of the reset switch, but it will turn back off as soon as the reset switch is released. The sleep LED re-
mains off unless the amp goes to sleep due to audio inactivity. To view whether sleep mode is currently active or not, quickly
press and release the reset switch. If sleep mode is active (mode 2 or mode 3 as shown above) the blue sleep LED will light up.
4.4 Bridge Mode LED Indicator
BRIDGE - This green LED indicates when each channel pair is congured to BRIDGE mode from the back panel
switch. When set to bridge mode, only the odd numbered input and level control is used for that channel pair.
4.5 Channel LED Indicators
TEMP - This yellow LED turns on when an amplier channel has reached an operating temperature that is 80% of its
maximum safe range, and the cooling fan is at its maximum speed. The LED lights dimly at rst 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 its level control is fully attenu-
ated. Additionally, the Clip/Mute LED is used along with the Protect LED to indicate an output DC fault (see section 14).

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Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
4.6 Amplier Status LEDs
PROTECT - The red Protect LED initially turns on to indicate that real-time countermeasures are being applied for power
limiting, overtemperature, or power supply voltage fault conditions while the amp is still running. If those countermeasures are unsuc-
cessful, the Protect LED indicates an amplier shut-down. If the amplier shuts down due to self protection, the power must be cycled
before resuming normal operation. See section 14 for details .
SLEEP - This blue LED indicates that the amplier is asleep. Sleep mode can be enabled as a power saving feature that
shuts down most amplier circuits after a period of audio inactivity, reducing the amplier's power consumption to less than 1 Watt.
The amplier 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 amplier 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 xed 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 Op-
tions] 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 amplier to normal operation. Note that on all models, a xed amplier 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 power switch and level controls have been disabled. All external controls
are disabled together using the factory reset switch as described in section 4.3 , or in software using the amplier's main control
surface (see section 9.4a).
COM (nXe and nXp only) - This green LED lights whenever network communication occurs. Secondly, the COM LED
ashes 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 ashing power switch LED) during ash reprogram mode (see section 9.1h).
4.7 Power Switch/LED – This switch is used for powering the amplier on or off or waking the amplier from sleep. The
white switch LED lights solid when the amplier is on, and ashes 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 amplier is powered up, even if the power switch has been disabled, in which case the disable LED will be on.
2) Flashing: The amplier is in standby mode, or is in ash reprogram mode when the COM LED is also lit.
3) Fully off: The amplier 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 amplier series, nX, nXe, or nXp. The label on the
right shows the amplier model name.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
12
 5 nX BASE MODEL REAR PANEL FEATURES
5.1 Channel Conguration DIP Switch -
Each channel's six-position DIP switch sets the 80Hz
2nd order hipass lter, clip limiter, amplier gain, and
output mode for that channel.
In the example to the right, the DIP switch is set as
follows:
Switch #6- 80Hz high pass lter is OFF (switch down)
Switch #5 - clip limiter is ON (switch up)
Switch #4&3 - gain is 1.4V (both switches up)
Switch #2&1 - output mode is low impedance (both switches down)
Note: The preferred 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 amplier 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. For unbalanced inputs,
wire the (+) input signal to the (+) Euroblock pin and the shield to (-) and (G). Do not leave
the (-) input pin unconnected.
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. This feature can be disabled in software (section 9.4a).
5.4 Channel Attenuators – These control the input signal level to the amplier, and work in conjunction with the remote
DC fader level controls and software control surface faders if the amp is networked. When an input attenuator is turned fully off,
its red clip/mute LED turns on and stays on to indicate mute status for that channel. The attenuators can be disabled, along with the
power switch, using the factory reset switch as shown in section 4.3 or from software.
5.5 Bridge Mode Switch - This switch places an adjacent channel pair into bridge mode, combining two amplier 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 pin labeling found below the Euroblock speaker connnector. The
bridge mode switch button can be removed for added security by pulling it straight off.
5.6 Euroblock Outputs - Used for wiring the speaker outputs. For bridge mode, use pin labeling shown below the connector.
5.7 AC Mains Connector - Always use the AC mains line-cord provided by Ashly for connecting to AC mains. The amplier
auto-detects voltage from 120VAC to 240VAC. WARNING: Do not remove or lift the mains connector ground.
5.8 Serial Number Sticker - This sticker is on the side of the amplier chassis and identies the product model number,
serial number, MAC address (if a networkable model), and AC mains current/power rating.
5.3 Remote DC Level Control

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Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
 6 nXe NETWORK MODEL REAR PANEL FEATURES
The following nXe features are in addition to standard features found in base model nX series ampliers:
6.1 Ethernet Port - This RJ-45 connector offers Ethernet control and monitoring of the amplier using Proteane software.
See section 8 in this manual for details on Ethernet communications.
6.2 Digital/Network Audio Option - This slot is for an optional factory installed AES3, CobraNet, or Dante audio module.
Note that nXe models do not have DSP installed, so an additional factory installed OPDAC4 digital to analog converter module must
be purchased when ordering an nXe series model with any digital audio option. See section 12 for AES3 digital audio details. See
section 13 for CobraNet and Dante network audio details.
6.3 Standby Contact Closure - The SB (standby) pin, when connected to the adjacent ground
pin (G) as shown, remotely places the amp into standby mode for lower power consumption. When
the connection is opened, the amplier returns to normal operation. Standby is also controlled using
software or the event scheduler. The front panel power switch ashes when the amplier is in standby.
Sleep mode, if enabled, has priority over standby mode. An amplier in sleep state (blue sleep
LED is on) can only be awakened by the presence of audio signal or by pressing the power switch.
6.4 Fault Pins - A fault logic output pin is available for each
amplier output channel. Fault pins are used to directly drive
external diagnostic LEDs, or connect with equipment that can
remotely monitor and respond to a serious amplier problem. A
fault is indicated by the loss of a normally present "heartbeat" signal, where the output continuously
toggles between 0V and +5V at a 1Hz rate.
The normal heartbeat signal on each fault pin is interrupted
whenever a fault condition prevents normal function of that
channel while the amplier is either powered on or in the
standby state. Fault conditions include loss of AC mains
voltage, excessive internal temperature, power supply
voltage out of range, DC on output, or microprocessor
malfunction. A fault pin output can directly drive an LED
as shown in the circuit illustration to the right.
If a critical fault occurs, fault pin output may be latched
<Low> or <High> depending on the type of fault or state of
the output at the moment the fault occurred. A fail-safe fault
detection circuit should monitor and respond only to the loss
of the 1Hz heartbeat signal.
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 amplier. Preset pins 1-4 correspond directly to amplier 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 control-
lers. A technical RS-232 protocol document is available on the Ashly website for third party developers. See more remote control application
details in section 10.
6.7 AUX Outputs - These Euroblock connectors provide preamp signals for driving other ampliers. See the block diagram
on page 59 for the differences between two and four channel amplier AUX outputs. AUX outputs are pseudo-balanced, meaning
they use single ended signal with balanced impedance, and can be wire balanced or unbalanced.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
14
 7 nXp NETWORK + DSP MODEL REAR PANEL FEATURES
*The following nXp features are in addition to all of the standard features found in nX and nXe ampliers:
7.1 Installed DSP - Factory installed DSP allows for comprehensive digital signal processing of amplier signals (section
9.4d) as well as loudspeaker load impedance analysis (section 9.1i).
7.2 Digital/Network Audio (Optional) - This illustration shows an nXp model with an optional Danteaudio module installed.
Since nXp models come standard with DSP, a Dante, CobraNet, or AES3 digital audio module can be ordered and factory installed
without the additional cost of the OPDAC4 module that is required for nXe series. See section 12 for AES3 digital audio details. See
section 13 for CobraNet and Dante network audio details .
 8 ETHERNET COMMUNICATIONS (nXe and nXp models only)
Ethernet communication is made by connecting the amplier 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 ampliers 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 amplier.
8.1 IP Address - There is no need to assign an IP address to nXe ampliers. The router or link local addressing will assign
IP addresses to each device automatically.
When a router is not available, each amplier will acquire its own IP address based on link local addressing. This allows the
device to operate without the need to set up a 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 Conguration> 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 amplier or show real time changes, the rewall in the host PC may need to
have Proteane software added to its rewall exceptions, since rewalls may block the amplier response to the PC. The current PC rewall
status is found by clicking on the Windows start button, then control panel, then double clicking on the security shield where rewall
exceptions are congured.
8.3 Wi-Fi and LAN – For the initial device auto-conguration 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, then disable any secondary network con-
nections. 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 amplier. If a successful Ethernet
connection has been made, a solid green LED (link) lights up on the amplier'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 ash green when active, so backtrack through any other cables, routers, or switches to nd the problem.
The ashing yellow LED (Data) indicates that data is owing to or from the amplier.

15
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W 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 de-
vice tree on the left side of the software start-up screen
is an accurate reection 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 congured incorrectly.
All Ashly devices broadcast their availability to the
software when they start up. The user can also manu-
ally 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 its 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, Dante, and AES3 are
currently available, AVB network audio will be available in the future.
Note: The user can nd and verify a live device on the network by right clicking over the unit’s name or icon, and
then click <Identify> which will ash 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 congured. Virtual devices can be added to the canvas as well,
congured, 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 les can be saved under different names.
Additional visual control objects such as level faders, LEDs, meter bars, preset, standby, mute, and source select buttons can be
placed on the canvas and assigned to control a specic 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.
Check <Design Mode> to allow placed objects to be moved around, while uncheck <Design Mode> to lock objects in place.
9.1 Proteane Software Startup Window, Network Device Tree,
and Project Canvas

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
16
9.1c File Menu - A project le (*.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 le (*.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 whenever the software is running. For most users this is not important;
however, it does allow user access to the system history. 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 nds 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 Cong] - 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 le 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
congured 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 le, 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 le 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.

17
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
[Add Item>Control Objects] - Stand-alone control objects can be added to the canvas and linked to control specic
device functions. They include a level fader, signal LED, level meter, preset button, standby button, mute button, logic out but-
ton, and source select button.
[Add Item>Display Objects] - Text and image les 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 rmware on any networked Ashly
device. All available rmware update les can be downloaded from the Ashly website.
[Flash Programmer >Launch WR-5 Flash Programmer] - WR-5 rmware must be updated through its hosting
device, since WR-5 remote controls are not themselves networked. Download the new WR-5 rmware, 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 connected
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 dened swept sine wave input is applied to one amplier channel
by software. Currently, the only Ashly ampliers with load analysis are NE two-channel (dsp) and nXp.
Loudspeakers are specied with a nominal impedance rating, 8 Ohms for example. This is an average rating, the actual imped-
ance across its frequency range can vary substantially above or below 8 Ohms due to inductance, resonance, and other proper-
ties which affect impedance . Lower impedance, even within a narrow frequency range, can increase the amount of amplier
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 amplier 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 amplier 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 rst
installed and the results saved to disk for reference. Future load impedance tests can be compared to the original reference data
and issue a pass/fail rating based on a user-dened percentage of similarity to the original data. Load anaylsis can thus help
determine if loudspeakers are damaged or disconnected, and can be administered from any 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 signicant volume. Note: During the test, all audio DSP processing in the amplier is stopped.

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
18
[Load Analysis>Launch Load Analysis] - This is the working window for performing a load analysis. The user must
rst select an available networked amplier from the <Analysis-Capable Amplier> 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 lters 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 Amplier> 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 nished, 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 amplier is only useful for learning the pro-
cedure, it 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 Conguration] - 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 amplier in the network tree or on the canvas.
9.2a Flash Reprogram Mode - A nX amplier can be ash reprogrammed by downloading
a new program le (rmware) to the amplier over the network. Latest rmware updates, if avail-
able, can be found on the Ashly website. When the amplier is put into ash reprogram mode,
all audio functions are suspended, the power switch LED ashes, and the COM LED remains
lit until ash reprogram is completed. Flash reprogram only appears in the device options menu
when a live device is connected.
9.2b Link Group Conguration - 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 ampliers support up to 16 Link Groups, 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 identication. For further details about linking, see the online help in Proteane software.
9.2 Device Options
9.1i Load Analysis

19
Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
9.2c Power On Delay - Use this feature (nXe and nXp only) to delay the amplier turning on when rst powered up or when
waking from sleep. Delay is measured in increments of 100mS, with the limit at 25.5 seconds. The power amplier should be the
last device to power up after other system components have turned on and stabilized. Multiple ampliers 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 models, the sleep clock timer can be set from 0 to 120 minutes
9.2f Factory Installed Options (not shown) - Factory installed options currently include AES3, CobraNet, or Dante. Options
are auto-detected on live ampliers, but can be added to virtual ampliers 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 lters, 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-dened setups to be named, saved to, and recalled from the amplier or a
networked computer. Several other utility functions are available as well. Presets are a snapshot of all current settings on a given amplier.
nX ampliers 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 amplier using <Save Preset To "nX***">, or saved to the
PC using <Save PresetTo Disk>. Individual preset les use the extension (*.pne).
9.3a Sub Presets: Instead of saving or recalling an entire preset affecting all device func-
tions, a sub-preset affecting only a user dened sub-set of DSP functions can be created.
Sub-presets load faster. To create a sub-preset, rst 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 amplier by one of the following methods:
1) Use Proteane software on a PC connected to the network to recall les saved on either
the PC or on the amplier.
2) Use contact closures to load presets 1-4 from memory by wiring switches to the rear
panel contact closure connector.
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
conguration is saved before continuing or any changes will be lost. The amplier 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 dramati-
cally different settings capable of damaging sound system components, so be careful not to recall the wrong preset while the
system is on.
9.3 Preset Options

Operating Manual - nX, nXe, and nXp 150W/75W Power Ampliers
20
9.4 Device Control Tabs
The following device control tabs are available for each amplier. 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 amplier section. DSP functions, if available, are managed from the DSP tab. The
following amplier functions are available in the control panel:
Name - The user dened name for this specic amplier. Up to 20 characters can be used.
Model - The model of amplier 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.
Power Switch & Level Control Enabled/Disabled -
This disables both the front panel power switch and the rear
panel level controls. Note: When disabled, all level controls
revert to their maximum (fully on) value regardless of knob
position.
T he software control surface representations of the rear panel level
controls (labeled as Rear Attenuators) will always show the current
physical position of the rear panel level controls, whether they are
enabled or disabled. See image on next page.
Remote Attenuator Enabled/Disabled - This separate function disables all DC level control Euroblock connectors on the
amplier back panel
Internal Amplier Ambient - On a live amplifer only, this indicates the current internal temperature.
DIP Switch Settings - Each amplier channel has a six position rear panel DIP
switch for setting hi-pass lter (HPF), limiter, gain, and output mode for that chan-
nel. Current DIP switch positions and parameters are displayed on the software
control surface. Note: HPF status is unavailable to the software and is not shown.
9.4a - Control Surface Global Functions
9.4a - DIP Switch Settings