Behringer ULTRAWAVE B300 User manual

Users Manual
Version 1.1 October 2000
ENGLISH
ULTRAWAVE® B300
www.behringer.com

2
ULTRAWAVE B300
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not remove the cover
(or back). No user serviceable arts inside; refer servicing to
qualified ersonnel.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not ex ose this
a liance to rain or moisture.
DETAILED SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS:
All the safety and o eration instructions should be read before the a liance is o erated.
Retain Instructions:
The safety and o erating instructions should be retained for future reference.
Heed Warnings:
All warnings on the a liance and in the o erating instructions should be adhered to.
Follo instructions:
All o eration and user instructions should be followed.
Water and Moisture:
The a liance should not be used near water (e.g. near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near
a swimming ool etc.).
Ventilation:
The a liance should be situated so that its location or osition does not interfere with its ro er ventilaton. For exam le, the
a liance should not be situated on a bed, sofa rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation o enings: or laced in a built-in
installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet that may im ede the flow of air through the ventilation o enings.
Heat:
The a liance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other a liances (including
am lifiers) that roduce heat.
Po er Source:
The a liance should be connected to a ower su ly only of the ty e described in the o erating instructions or as marked on the
a liance.
Grounding or Polarization:
Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or olarization means of an a liance is not defeated.
Po er-Cord Protection:
Power su ly cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or inched by items laced u on or against them,
aying articular attention to cords and lugs, convenience rece tacles and the oint where they exit from the a liance.
Cleaning:
The a liance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.
Non-use Periods:
The ower cord of the a liance should be un lugged from the outlet when left unused for a long eriod of time.
Object and Liquid Entry:
Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not s illed into the enclosure through o enings.
Damage Requiring Service:
The a liance should be serviced by qualified service ersonnel when:
- the ower su ly cord or the lug has been damaged; or
- objects have fallen, or liquid has been s illed into the a liance; or
- the a liance has been ex osed to rain; or
- the a liance does not a ear to o erate normally or exhibits a marked change in erformance; or
- the a liance has been dro ed, or the enclosure damaged.
Servicing:
The user should not attem t to service the a liance beyond that which is described in the O erating Instructions. All other servicing
should be referred to qualified service ersonnel.
Caution! Please note the follo ing instructions pertaining to the flying operation of your speaker cabinet:
The operation of your speaker cabinet as part of a flo n system is at your o n risk! Make sure that s eaker cabinets are
set u and flown by qualified ersonnel only, using dedicated equi ment and the original arts and com onents delivered with the
unit. Be sure to observe the local safety regulations applicable in your country. BEHRINGER com any (BEHRINGER
S ezielle Studiotechnik GmbH including the BEHRINGER com anies listed on the enclosed Service Information sheet) assumes no
liability for any damage or ersonal injury resulting from im ro er use or o eration of the roduct!
Check the s eaker cabinet for damages before using it as art of a flown system. If you detect any cracks, deformations, corrosion,
defective or missing arts, the s eaker cabinet may not be used! If the hanging fixtures sho any signs of damage, they
must be replaced immediately!
The s eaker cabinet was designed exclusively to carry its own weight when o erated as art of a flown system. Please note that
it is not permitted to attach any additional eights or charges to the speaker cabinet!
Make sure that the s eaker cabinet is not ex osed to moisture during outdoor use, and that it cannot be shaken by gusts of wind.
Check the floor:
Always check the floor for stability before you set u the s eaker cabinet. Vibrating floors (e.g. elements/com onents on the stage)
do not rovide reliable su ort for s eaker stacks. So, always set u your s eakers on a solid and even su ort.
Make sure that speaker cabinets are set up properly:
Set u your s eaker cabinet at a distance to dance floors or other audience areas, so as to avoid that somebody can knock over a
s eaker stack.
This symbol, wherever it a ears, alerts you
to the resence of uninsulated dangerous
voltage inside the enclosure  voltage that may
be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.
This symbol, wherever it a ears, alerts you to
im ortant o erating and maintenance instructions
in the accom anying literature. Read the manual.

3
ULTRAWAVE B300
Foreword
Dear ustomer,
Welcome to the team of ULTRAWAVE users and thank you very much for expressing your confidence in
BEHRINGER products by purchasing this fully active loudspeaker system. It is one of my most pleasant tasks
to write this letter to you, because it is the culmination of many months of hard work delivered by our engineering
team to reach a very ambitious goal: presenting you with an out-of-the-ordinary loudspeaker system that can
be used for any kind of sound reinforcement application. The task of designing our new ULTRAWAVE certainly
meant a great deal of responsibility, which we assumed by focusing on you, the discerning user and musician.
It also meant a lot of work and night shifts to accomplish this goal. But it was fun, too. Developing a product
usually brings a lot of people together, and what a great feeling it is when everybody who participated in such
a project can be proud of what weve achieved.
It is our philosophy to share our joy with you, because you are the most important member of the BEHRINGER
family. With your highly competent suggestions for new products youve greatly contributed to shaping our
company and making it successful. In return, we guarantee you uncompromising quality (manufactured under
ISO9000 certified management system) as well as excellent technical and audio properties at an extremely
affordable price. All of this will enable you to fully unfold your creativity without being hampered by budget
constraints.
We are often asked how we can make it to produce such high-grade devices at such unbelievably low prices.
The answer is quite simple: its you, our customers! Many satisfied customers means large sales volumes
enabling us to get better conditions of purchase for components, etc. Isnt it only fair to pass this benefit back
to you? Because we know that your success is our success, too!
I would like to thank all people whose help on Project ULTRAWAVE B300 has made it all possible. Everybody
has made very personal contributions, starting from the designers of the unit via the many staff members in our
company to you, the users of BEHRINGER products.
My friends, its been worth the trouble!
Thank you very much,
Uli Behringer

4
ULTRAWAVE B300
B300
ULTRAWAVE®
Fully Active 2-Way Loudspeaker System with Integrated EQ and ic Preamp
s2-way bi-amping for excellent sound reproduction
sTwo integrated high-power amps for low and high frequency ranges delivering a total of 300 Watts
sHigh-efficiency components for extremely high sound pressure levels and ultra-low distortion
sExtensive phase and time correction ensures perfect system alignment
sInnovative Reflex ooling System for automatic convection-type cooling
sExtremely rugged, low-resonance plastic enclosure
sSpecial design allows for flying operation
sHigh-efficiency 1.25" compression driver with titanium dome for excellent high-frequency reproduction
s15" long-throw woofer with high-power magnet
sIntegrated 2-band equalizer and on-board crossover network with integrated limiter ensures speaker
protection
sBalanced audio inputs on XLR and ¼" TRS connectors
sHigh-quality microphone preamplifier allows for direct connection of dynamic microphones
sSignals can be looped through to drive additional B300s
slearly visible power and overload LEDs on front and rear panel for optimal operational control
sIntegrated suspension points and socket for pole or stand mounting
sManufactured under ISO9000 certified management system

5
ULTRAWAVE B300
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................6
1.1 The concept .................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Before you begin ............................................................................................................................. 6
1.2.1 Mains voltage ........................................................................................................................ 6
1.3 ontrol elements ............................................................................................................................. 7
2. Setting up the B300 ...............................................................................................................8
2.1 Tweeter ........................................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 How to avoid feedback .................................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Flying operation of the B300 ............................................................................................................ 9
3. CONNECTIONS ...................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Mains connection ............................................................................................................................ 9
3.2 Audio connections .......................................................................................................................... 9
3.2.1 Audio connections to a mixing console ................................................................................. 9
3.2.2 Direct audio connection to a microphone .............................................................................. 9
3.2.3 Direct audio connection to a stereo signal source ................................................................. 9
4. LEVEL SETTIN ................................................................................................................... 10
5. APPLICATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 11
5.1 Presentations ................................................................................................................................. 11
5.2 P.A. systems ................................................................................................................................. 11
5.3 Monitoring application .................................................................................................................... 11
6. SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................. 12
7. WARRANTY ........................................................................................................................... 13
CAUTION!
+Please note that extreme output volumes can lead to permanent hearing damage. Turn down
the VOLUME control before ou switch on the unit. Be sure to use appropriate volume levels.

6
ULTRAWAVE B300
1. INTRODUCTION
ongratulations! With our new BEHRINGER ULTRAWAVE B300 you purchased an absolutely reliable and
versatile active loudspeaker system. You now own an audio tool that gives you an undistorted and well balanced
reproduction of your program material, be it for presentations, P.A. system or monitoring applications. Despite
its built-in high-power stages, the B300 is compact enough to be handled with ease. It combines the benefits
of easy and fast installation and handling with absolutely pro-level features. And the use of matching components
(preamps, crossovers, power amps, speakers) gives you the freedom to use your B300 in a great variety of
applications.
+This manual first describes the terminolog used, so that ou can full understand the B300
and its functions. Please read the manual carefull and keep it for future reference.
1.1 The concept
The B300 is equipped with two separate power amps for the woofer and tweeter ranges. With 175 and 50 watts
respectively, these amps have lots of power reserves. The effective operating range of the 15" woofer has been
expanded towards the bottom end by means of a special bass reflex system. The tweeter installed in the B300
ensures an extremely fine signal resolution in the treble range. To optimize its efficiency we upgraded the
tweeter with a specially designed horn. A built-in musical limiter makes sure that both speakers are protected
reliably against overloading.
The philosophy behind BEHRINGER products guarantees a no-compromise circuit design and employs the
best choice of components. Additionally, the B300 is manufactured in compliance with a ISO9000 certified
management system.
1.2 Before you begin
Your ULTRAWAVE was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging is designed to protect the unit from
rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its contents for
any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred during transit.
+If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to BEHRINGER, but notif our dealer and the
shipping compan immediatel , otherwise claims for damage or replacement ma not be
granted. Shipping claims must be made b the consignee.
The ULTRAWAVE must be placed on a flat and stable surface or a commercially available speaker stand. Be
sure that there is enough air space around the unit for cooling and please do not place the ULTRAWAVE on
high-temperature devices such as power amps or radiators, etc. to avoid overheating.
+Please note that all units must be grounded properl . For our own safet , ou should never
remove an ground connectors from electrical devices or power cords or render them
inoperative.
1.2.1 Mains voltage
Before ou connect the ULTRAWAVE to the mains, please make sure that our local voltage matches
the voltage required b the unit! The fuse holder on the female mains connector has 3 triangular markers,
with two of these triangles opposing each other. The ULTRAWAVE is set to the operating voltage printed next
to these markers and can be set to another voltage by turning the fuse holder by 180°. CAUTION: This
instruction does not appl to export models exclusivel designed, e.g. for 115 V operation!
Please use the enclosed power cord to connect the unit to the mains. The cord complies with all applicable
safety standards.
1. INTRODU TION

7
ULTRAWAVE B300
1.3 Control elements
Fig. 1.1: Rear panel control and connecting elements of the ULTRAWAVE
1The OVL LED (= overload) lights up as soon as any one of the built-in protections has been activated.
For improved control a second overload LED is installed on the front panel of the speaker cabinet.
2The LI E LED lights up when the input sensitivity of the B300 has been set to LINE level with switch
. When ou have a mixing console or an other pla back device (e.g. CD pla er) connected,
be sure to set this switch alwa s to LINE level!
3The VOLUME control governs the overall volume level of your ULTRAWAVE.
4The I PUT switch changes the input sensitivity from line to microphone level, and vice versa.
5The MIC LED lights up when the input sensitivity of the B300 is set to microphone level.
6Use the HI control to adjust the high-frequency range of the built-in equalizer.
7Use the LO control to adjust the low-frequency range of the built-in equalizer.
8This stereo 1/4" TRS connector is the input for the signal source. You can also connect a microphone
(in this case, switch must be set to MIC!)
9This XLR connector is a balanced input for the signal source. You can also connect a microphone (in
this case, switch must be set to MIC!)
10 The LI K OUTPUT is directly connected to the inputs of the B300 and provides a one-to-one copy of the
input signal, for example, to loop the signal through to the input of another device (e.g. a second B300).
11 Use the POWER switch to put the ULTRAWAVE into operation.
12 FUSE HOLDER/VOLTAGE SELECTOR and MAI S CO ECTOR. Please make sure that your local
voltage matches the voltage indicated on the unit, before you attempt to connect and operate the
ULTRAWAVE. Blown fuses may only be replaced by fuses of the same type and rating. Some models
allow for inserting the fuse holder in two different positions, in order to switch over from 230-V to 115-V
operation, and vice versa (see chapter 1.2.1). Please note that for 115-V operation outside Europe, you
need a fuse of a higher rating.
+The serial number of our ULTRAWAVE is printed on the rear panel. Please take the time to fill
out and return the warrant card within 14 da s after the date of purchase, so as to be entitled
to benefit from our extended warrant . Or use our online registration option available on the
Internet at www.behringer.com.
1. INTRODU TION

8
ULTRAWAVE B300
2. SETTING UP THE B300
The sound of your B300 largely depends on the room acoustics. Please observe the following hints to get the
most out of your B300.
2.1 Tweeter
High frequencies are the very part of the audio spectrum that ensures a clear sound and speech intelligibility.
Although these frequencies can be located most easily, they are also the first to be blocked acoustically. We
therefore recommend that you set up your speakers on speaker stands, so that the tweeter radiates its signals
slightly above the heads of the audience. This will ensure both an optimum dispersion of the high-frequency
content and a considerably improved speech intelligibility.
2.2 How to avoid feedback
Always place the microphones (viewed from the audience) behind the B300, never in front of it:
Fig. 2.1: Dos and donts of speaker positioning
Use professional floor monitors (e.g. BEHRINGER EUROLIVE F1220 or F1520), so that the musicians on
stage can hear themselves. You can also use your B300 as a monitor speaker, because it can also be set up
at an angle (as shown below), which depends on the microphone(s) used. When microphones with a cardioid
polar pattern are used, the B300 must be positioned as shown below (right, center speaker). When you use a
microphone with a hyper-cardioid polar pattern, you can place either one or two B300s at an angle of 45° on
the microphone axis (as shown by the shaded speaker boxes to the left and right of the microphone).
Fig. 2.2: B300 as a monitor speaker
2. SETTING UP THE B300

9
ULTRAWAVE B300
2.3 lying operation of the B300
A special fixture designed by BEHRINGER allows the flying operation of your B300. Safe and reliable flying of
speakers requires some know-how and expertise. So, please make sure that your B300 will be set up by
qualified personnel only. BEHRINGER assumes no liability for any damage or personal injury resulting from
improper operation of your loudspeakers!
Use the fixture on the top side of the B300 to fly the speaker. On the rear of the cabinet, you will find a second
fixture which  if fastened to the rigging system  allows you to adjust the tilt angle of the speaker cabinet.
+If our B300 shows an signs of damage, it must be repaired using original BEHRINGER parts
before it can be used for fl ing operation. Make sure that no persons are passing b underneath
the speaker while it is attached to the rigging s stem. What is more, the cabinet should never
be flown in areas that can be entered b the audience. Please read our safet precautions!
3. CONNECTIONS
3.1 Mains connection
Use the enclosed power cord to connect your B300 to the mains. To avoid ground loops, both speaker and
mixing console should be fed from the same outlet.
3.2 Audio connections
+Alwa s use either the XLR or the 1/4" TRS input of our B300, and adjust the input sensitivit
with switch . Never use both inputs at the same time!
3.2.1 Audio connections to a mixing console
The standard application of the B300 is the direct connection of two speakers to one mixing console. onnect
the inputs of each B300 to one Main Output of your console. The inputs of the B300 are on balanced XLR and
1/4" TRS connectors. To avoid interference and hum, we recommend that you use balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS
cables.
When the two loudspeakers have been connected as described above, turn down their VOLUME controls to
zero, then switch on the speakers using the POWER switch .
3.2.2 Direct audio connection to a microphone
Owing to the built-in microphone preamp you can also directly connect a dynamic microphone using the XLR
connector of your B300. Set the INPUT switch to MI .
+Set the INPUT switch to MIC onl when ou connect a microphone; otherwise, ou will
overload the B300.
Optionally, you can connect a second B300 to the LINK OUTPUT of the first. Once the speakers are connected
to each other, turn down their VOLUME controls to zero, then switch on the speakers.
3.2.3 Direct audio connection to a stereo signal source
Two B300s can be used to play back a stereo signal source, e.g. a D player. In this case, each B300 must
be connected to one output of the signal source.
Here, too, you should turn down all VOLUME controls before you switch on the speakers.
3. ONNE TIONS

10
ULTRAWAVE B300
Fig. 3.1: Different plug types
4. LE EL SETTING
Please set the levels as follows:
sTurn the Master Volume control on your mixing console until it provides a level of 0 dB, or
sRaise the output level of the stereo signal source (if equipped with a volume control), so that there is no
overloading, or
sSpeak into the microphone connected.
Now, turn up the VOLUME control of your B300. The overload LED (OVL) helps you control the level. The
LED lights up as soon as one of the internal protections has been activated due to an overload condition. For
optimum control the B300 has a second overload LED on its front panel. The OVL LED may light up with signal
peaks, but it should never light all the time.
If the amplifiers built into the B300 are muted temporarily, this is an indication that the speaker is being
overloaded. In this case, you should reduce the output level of the mixing console or turn down the VOLUME
control of your B300.
4. LEVEL SETTING