Crown XLS 1500 User manual

Obtaining Other Language Versions: To obtain information in another language about the use of this product, please contact your local Crown Distributor. If you need
assistance locating your local distributor, please contact Crown at 574-294-8000.
This manual does not include all of the details of design, production, or variations of the equipment. Nor does it cover every possible situation which may arise during
installation, operation or maintenance.
The information provided in this manual was deemed accurate as of the publication date. However, updates to this information may have occurred. To obtain the latest
version of this manual, please visit the Crown website at www.crownaudio.com.
Trademark Notice: Crown, Crown Audio, and Amcron are registered trademarks of Crown International. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Later versions of this manual and additional information about this product may be available at the Crown website at www.crownaudio.com.
Some models may be exported under the name Amcron®
©2010 by Crown Audio®, Inc., 1718 W. Mishawaka Rd., Elkhart, Indiana 46517-9439 U.S.A. Telephone: [phone].
XLS 1000
XLS 2000
XLS 1500
XLS 2500
XLS Series Operation Manual
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XLS Series Power Amplifiers
Operation Manual
page 2
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type
plug. A 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 is provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly
at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use
caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for
long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required
when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-
supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. Use the mains plug to disconnect the apparatus from the mains.
16. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
17. DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING
AND ENSURE THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS
VASES, ARE PLACED ON THE EQUIPMENT.
18. THE MAINS PLUG OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD SHALL REMAIN
READILY OPERABLE.
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE TOP OR BOTTOM
COVERS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS EQUIPMENT FROM THE
AC MAINS, DISCONNECT THE POWER SUPPLY CORD PLUG FROM THE
AC RECEPTACLE. THE MAINS PLUG OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD
SHALL REMAIN READILY OPERABLE.
WATCH FOR THESE SYMBOLS:
The lightning bolt triangle is used to alert the user to the risk of electric
shock.
The exclamation point triangle is used to alert the user to important
operating or maintenance instructions.
IMPORTANT
XLS Series amplifiers require Class 2 output wiring.
MAGNETIC FIELD
CAUTION! Do not locate sensitive high-gain equipment such as
preamplifiers or tape decks directly above or below the unit. Because this
amplifier has a high power density, it has a strong magnetic field which can
induce hum into unshielded devices that are located nearby. The field is
strongest just above and below the unit.
If an equipment rack is used, we recommend locating the amplifier(s) in
the bottom of the rack and the preamplifier or other sensitive equipment at
the top.
Important Safety Instructions
FCC COMPLIANCE NOTICE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
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 a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, 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.

XLS Series Power Amplifiers
page 3
Operation Manual
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Issued By: Harman International.
1718 W. Mishawaka Rd.
Elkhart, IN 46517 U.S.A.
FOR COMPLIANCE QUESTIONS ONLY: Sue Whitfield
574-294-8289
Sue.Whitfi[email protected]
European Representative’s Name and Address:
David J. Budge
10 Harvest Close
Yateley
GU46 6YS
United Kingdom
Equipment Type: Power amplifiers
Family Name: XLS Series
Model Names: XLS 1000, XLS 1500, XLS 2000, XLS 2500
EMC Standards:
EN 55103-1:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility – Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for
Professional Use, Part 1: Emissions
EN 55103-1:1997 Magnetic Field Emissions-Annex A @ 10 cm and 1 M
EN 61000-3-2:2005 & Amd 1: 2008 Limits for Harmonic Current Emissions (equipment input current ≤16A per phase)
EN 61000-3-3:1998 Limitation of Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker in Low-Voltage Supply Systems Rated Current ≤16A
EN 55022:2006 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of ITE: Radiated, Class B Limits; Conducted, Class B
EN 55103-2:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility – Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for
Professional Use, Part 2: Immunity
EN 61000-4-2:2001 Electrostatic Discharge Immunity (Environment E2-Criteria B, 4k V Contact, 8k V Air Discharge)
EN 61000-4-3:2006 Radiated, Radio-Frequency, Electromagnetic Immunity (Environment E2, Criteria A)
EN 61000-4-4:2007 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Immunity (Criteria B)
EN 61000-4-5:2006 Surge Immunity (Criteria B)
EN 61000-4-6:2006 Immunity to Conducted Disturbances Induced by Radio-Frequency Fields (Criteria A)
EN 61000-4-11:2001 Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Voltage Variation
Safety Standard:
IEC 60065: 2001: 7Ed & Amd 1: 2005 Safety Requirements - Audio Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus
I certify that the product identified above conforms to the requirements of the EMC Council Directive 89/336/EEC as amended by 92/31/EEC,
and the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EES as amended by 93/68/EEC.
Signed ______________________
Andrew Stump
Title: Director of Manufacturing Date of Issue: February 1, 2010

XLS Series Power Amplifiers
Operation Manual
page 4
Stereo Bypass Mode
This is the default mode the amplifier is set to from the factory. The amplifier is
configured for stereo mode with the PureBand™ Crossover System Bypassed.
1. Connect Left/Right signal source to Channel 1 and Channel 2 using either
the XLR, ¼Inch, or RCA connectors.
2. Connect a speaker to each channel output using Speakon®, Banana Plugs,
or bare wire.
Bridge-Mono Mode
Bridge-Mono Mode delivers the power of both amp channels into a single 8 or
4 ohm load.
Before you get started ensure that you:
1. Connect signal source to Channel 1 only using either the XLR, ¼Inch, or
RCA connectors.
2. Connect the speaker as shown.
a. If using the binding post outputs, connect the positive terminal of the
speaker to the positive terminal of Channel 1 and the negative terminal of
the speaker to the positive terminal of Channel 2.
b. If using a Speakon®connector, connect the positive terminal of the speaker to 1+ and the negative terminal to 2+.
Plug the connector into the Channel 1 output only.
Follow these quick steps to configure the amplifier for “Bridge Mode”:
1. Hold the “Mode/Menu” button down for 3 sec until the LCD screen displays “Amp Mode <More>”.
2. Press the “Mode/Menu” button to begin configuring the Amp Mode.
3. Press the “Next” button until the LCD screen reads “Mode: Bridge”.
4. Press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm your selection.
5. Now press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “Bypass”. Press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm your selection. The LCD screen should now read
“Bridge Bypass”.
Crossover Mode
When using the “Crossover Mode”, the amplifier is configured to use a LowPass
Filter on Channel 1 and a HighPass Filter on Channel 2.
Before you get started ensure that you:
1. Connect signal source to Channel 1 only using either the XLR, ¼Inch, or
RCA connectors.
2. Connect a speaker to each channel output using Speakon®, Banana Plugs,
or bare wire.
Follow these quick steps to configure the amplifier for “Crossover Mode”:
1. Hold the “Mode/Menu” button down for 3 sec until the LCD screen displays
“Amp Mode <More>”.
2. Press the “Mode/Menu” button to begin configuring the Amp Mode.
3. Press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “Input Y”. Now press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm.
4. Now press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “XOVER” and press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm.
5. Now use the “Previous” or “Next” button to select your desired crossover point.
6. Once you have selected your crossover point, press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm your selection. The LCD screen should now read “Input Y XOVER”.
Get Started

XLS Series Power Amplifiers
page 5
Operation Manual
LowPass Mode
When using the “LowPass Mode”, the amplifier is configured to use a LowPass
Filter on Channel 1 and Channel 2 at the selected frequency.
Before you get started ensure that you:
1. Connect Left/Right signal source to Channel 1 and Channel 2 using
either the XLR, ¼Inch, or RCA connectors.
2. Connect a speaker to each channel output using Speakon®, Banana
Plugs, or bare wire.
Follow these quick steps to configure the amplifier for “HighPass Mode”:
1. Hold the “Mode/Menu” button down for 3 sec until the LCD screen
displays “Amp Mode <More>”.
2. Press the “Mode/Menu” button to begin configuring the Amp Mode.
3. Press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “Stereo”. Now press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm.
4. Now press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “LowPass” and press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm.
5. Now use the “Previous” or “Next” button to select your desired crossover point.
6. Once you have selected your crossover point, press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm your selection. The LCD screen should now read “Stereo LowPass”.
HighPass Mode
When using the “HighPass Mode”, the amplifier is configured to use a HighPass
Filter on Channel 1 and Channel 2 at the selected frequency.
Before you get started ensure that you:
1. Connect Left/Right signal source to Channel 1 and Channel 2 using either
the XLR, ¼Inch, or RCA connectors.
2. Connect a speaker to each channel output using Speakon®, Banana Plugs,
or bare wire.
Follow these quick steps to configure the amplifier for “HighPass Mode”:
1. Hold the “Mode/Menu” button down for 3 sec until the LCD screen
displays “Amp Mode <More>”.
2. Press the “Mode/Menu” button to begin configuring the Amp Mode.
3. Press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “Stereo”. Now press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm.
4. Now press the “Next” button until the LCD screen displays “HighPass” and press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm.
5. Now use the “Previous” or “Next” button to select your desired crossover point.
6. Once you have selected your crossover point, press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm your selection. The LCD screen should now read “Stereo HighPass”.
Get Started

XLS Series Power Amplifiers
Operation Manual
page 6
Crown’s XLS Series amplifiers define the standard for portable PA systems with unmatched performance, technology and
affordability that effortlessly deliver the goods night after night. We packed XLS with enormous flexibility, thanks to its
integrated Crossover and PeakX
™Limiters. The XLS weighs under 11 pounds, compared to 40 pounds for its competitors.
Simply put, the XLS is the most powerful, flexible, efficient amp available in its class.
Modern power amplifiers are sophisticated pieces of engineering capable of producing extremely high power levels. They
must be treated with respect and correctly installed if they are to provide the many years of reliable service for which they
were designed.
In addition, XLS Series amplifiers include a number of features which require some explanation before they can be used to
their maximum advantage.
Please take the time to study this manual so that you can obtain the best possible service from your amplifier.
Features
• High performance, lightweight Class-D amplifier powered by DriveCore™Technology
• Integrated PureBand™Crossover System ensures seamless transitions from low to high frequency drivers
• Integrated PeakX™Limiters provide maximum output while protecting your speakers
• XLR, ¼", RCA inputs ensure compatibility with any source
• ¼" Inputs can be used as loop-thrus to distribute signal to additional amplifiers
• Crown No-Fault Fully-Transferable 3-year Warranty completely protects your investment
How to Use This Manual
This manual provides you with the necessary information to safely and correctly setup and operate your amplifier. It does
not cover every aspect of installation, setup or operation that might occur under every condition. For additional information,
please consult Crown’s Amplifier Application Guide (available online at www.crownaudio.com), Crown Technical Support, your
system installer or retailer.
We strongly recommend you read all instructions, warnings and cautions contained in this manual. Also, for your protection,
please send in your warranty registration card today. And save your bill of sale — it’s your official proof of purchase.
Welcome

XLS Series Power Amplifiers
page 7
Operation Manual
Indicators:
Signal Presence Indicator: Two green LED’s, one for each channel, illuminate when the channel input
signal exceeds -40dBu
-10 Indicator: Green LED flashes when output signal level exceeds -10dB below clip
-20 Indicator: Green LED flashes when output signal level exceeds -20dB below clip
Clip Indicator: Two red LED’s, one for each channel, illuminate when the channel’s output is being overdriven.
Thermal Indicator: Two red LED’s, one for each channel, illuminate when thermal compression begins.
Cooling Vents:
Front to rear forced air flow.
Gain (Level) Controls:
Two black rotary level controls,
one for each channel.
Menu/Prev/Next:
Three buttons located near the
LCD screen that are used to
configure and access the
integrated processing.
Power Button
Turns amplifier power on and
off. Blue LED will illuminate
when power is turned on.
LCD Screen:
Back-lit LCD screen allows for
crossover configuration,
amplifier mode configuration,
and limiter configuration.
Binding Post Output Jacks:
One pair per channel, accepts banana plugs or
bare wire. Note: Binding post outputs on European
models come with safety plugs installed to prevent
European power plugs from being inserted. The
side entry positions for these connectors should
be used with European models.
Fans:
Provide front to back
forced airflow for cooling.
AC Power
Connector
4-Pole Speakon®Output Connectors:
These two connectors accept 2-pole or 4-pole
Speakon connectors. The channel 1 connector is
wired for both channels so it can be used for
bridge-mode wiring or stereo wiring of two
speakers to a single Speakon.
¼Inch Inputs:
2 – ¼Inch input connectors
are provided (one per
channel). These inputs can
also be used to loop-thru
signal to additional amplifiers.
Circuit Breaker:
Provides overload protection
RCA (Phono) Inputs:
Two RCA inputs are provided
(one per channel)
Balanced XLR Inputs:
Two 3-pin XLR input
connectors are provided
(one per channel)
Front Panel Features
Back Panel Features

XLS Series Power Amplifiers
Operation Manual
page 8
PureBand™Crossover System:
The PureBand™Crossover System provides a variable state Linkwitz-Riley 24dB/octave filter allowing you to choose a point
between 50Hz and 3kHz on 1/12th octave centers. The following points are available for choice:
50Hz, 53Hz, 56Hz, 59Hz, 63Hz, 66Hz, 70Hz, 74Hz, 79Hz, 83Hz, 88Hz, 94Hz, 99Hz, 105Hz, 111Hz, 118Hz, 125Hz,
132Hz, 140Hz, 149Hz, 157Hz, 167Hz, 177Hz, 187Hz, 198Hz, 210Hz, 223Hz, 236Hz, 250Hz, 265Hz, 281Hz, 297Hz,
315Hz, 334Hz, 354Hz, 375Hz, 397Hz, 420Hz, 472Hz, 500Hz, 530Hz, 561Hz, 595Hz, 630Hz, 667Hz, 707Hz, 749Hz,
794Hz, 841Hz, 891Hz, 944Hz, 1.00kHz, 1.06kHz, 1.12kHz, 1.19kHz, 1.26kHz, 1.33kHz, 1.41kHz, 1.50kHz, 1.59kHz,
1.68kHz, 1.78kHz, 1.89kHz, 2.00kHz, 2.12kHz, 2.24kHz, 2.38kHz, 2.52kHz, 2.67kHz, 2.83kHz, 3.00kHz
Along with your choice in crossover frequency, the PureBand™ Crossover System also provides you with four modes to
choose from:
Crossover Mode (CH1=LPF, CH2=HPF): When selected, this mode enables a LowPass Filter on Channel 1 and a
HighPass Filter on Channel 2 at the frequency that you have chosen.
Note: This mode will automatically put the input mode into “Input Y”.
LowPass Mode (CH1=LPF, CH2 = LPF): When selected, this mode enables a LowPass Filter on both Channel 1
and Channel 2 at the frequency that you have chosen.
HighPass Mode (CH1 = HPF, CH2 = HPF): When selected, this mode enables a HighPass Filter on both Channel 1
and Channel 2 at the frequency that you have chosen.
Bridge Mode (either LPF or HPF): When bridge-mono mode is selected, the crossover system still allows you to
select a LowPass or HighPass filter at the frequency that you have chosen.
For instructions on setting up the different crossover system settings, please see the “Get Started” section at the beginning
of this manual.
PeakX™ Limiters
The PeakXClip Limiters provide your amplifier and system with higher performance and better protection. They are specifically
tuned to work with this amplifier design and power-supply to achieve higher SPL with less audible artifacts while protecting
your loudspeaker investment. The limiters can easily be turned on or off from the front panel.
Note: The PeakXLimiters are shipped in the “On” configuration from the factory.
Instructions for Engaging/Disengaging the PeakX™ Limiters:
1. Hold the “Mode/Menu” button down for 3 sec until the LCD screen displays “Amp Mode <More>”
2. Press the “Next” button – The LCD screen displays “CH1 Clip <More>”.
3. Press the “Mode/Menu” button and use the “Next” button to toggle between on/off.
4. Once you have made your selection, press the “Mode/Menu” button to confirm. When you confirm CH1 Clip
configuration, you are automatically taken to Ch2 Clip to configure either on or off. Once again, make your selection and
press “Mode/Menu” to confirm.
Integrated Processing Features