Emotiva Airmotiv XS User manual

Important Safety Precautions and Explanation of Symbols
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of
important installation, operation, and service instructions in this manual.
The lightning ash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltages within the enclosure that may be of su󰀩cient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical shock to the user.
Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to install, congure, or operate your Emotiva
Airmotiv XS Subwoofer. After successful installation and conguration of the XS Subwoofer, be sure
to retain this manual in a safe place for future reference.
Safety is a key component to a long lasting and trouble free installation. Please read and follow all
instructions and heed all warnings on the Airmotiv Subwoofer and in this manual. The vast majority of
the subsequent safety precautions are common sense. If you are not comfortable with the installation
of audio/video entertainment equipment, you should seek the services of a qualied installation
professional or call us for help.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THE
AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFER NEAR WATER OR IN WET LOCATIONS, DO NOT EXPOSE
IT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE, DO NOT EXPOSE IT TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING FROM
OTHER SOURCES, AND ENSURE THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS (SUCH AS
VASES) ARE PLACED ON IT. DOING SO MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE UNIT AND THE
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, WHICH MAY RESULT IN BODILY INJURY OR DEATH.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE
AMPLIFIER PLATE OR DRIVERS FROM THE AIRMOTIV SUBWOOFER. THERE ARE NO
USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE THE UNIT. REFER ALL SERVICE TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
Do not install the Airmotiv XS Subwoofer near or above any heat sources such as radiators, heating
vents, or other apparatus’ that produce heat. Leave plenty of clearance behind the subwoofer to
allow air-ow through the heat sinks and over the amplier plate located in the rear panel of the
subwoofer. Avoid installing the unit directly above other heat-producing equipment unless su󰀩cient
ventilation or forced-air cooling is provided.
Do not install the Airmotiv XS Subwoofer in locations without proper ventilation. The XS Subwoofer
should not be operated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block vents. The unit should
not be installed in an enclosed location such as a bookcase, cabinet, or closed equipment rack
unless su󰀩cient forced-air ventilation is provided, and clearance should be maintained between the
rear-mounted heat sinks and objects like drapes that may reduce ventilation.
Always install your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer according to the manufacturer’s instructions and only use
attachments or accessories specied by the manufacturer.
Do not install the XS Subwoofer on any stand, shelf, or other piece of furniture that is unable to
support its weight. If a cart is used to move the unit, use caution to avoid injury from tip-over.
Connect the XS Subwoofer only to power sources of the correct voltage (as shown in this manual
and on the XS Subwoofer unit). Be sure to set the Line Voltage switch to the correct voltage for your
area.
Protect power supply cables from being pinched, walked on, or otherwise damaged. Be especially
careful where the power cable enters the power outlet and the unit.
!
!

Only connect the Airmotiv XS Subwoofer to an electrical outlet or extension cord of appropriate type
and rating.
DO NOT defeat the safety purpose of a grounding or polarized plug by removing ground pins or
using unsafe adapters. A polarized plug has two blades - one wider than the other. A grounding plug
has a third ground prong in addition to the two main conductors. The wide blade or third groundling
prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t your outlet, consult an electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. If you replace the power cord, only use one of similar type and equal or
greater current rating.
The power cable for the Airmotiv XS Subwoofer should be unplugged from the outlet during severe
electrical storms, or when unused for a long period of time.
Only replace the fuse(s) in the Airmotiv Subwoofer with fuse(s) of proper value and voltage rating.
If you change the Line Voltage Selector switch setting be sure to replace the fuse with a new fuse of
the proper current value to go with your new voltage setting.
The Airmotiv XS Subwoofer should only be cleaned as directed in the manual. Avoid spraying liquids
directly onto the unit or drivers.
You should seek service for your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer by qualied service personnel if any of the
following occur:
1. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged.
2. Objects or liquid have fallen or spilled into the vents.
3. The unit has been exposed to rain.
4. The unit exhibits a marked change in performance.
5. The unit has been dropped, or its enclosure or chassis is damaged.
NOTE: TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THE AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFER FROM THE AC
POWER MAINS, DISCONNECT THE AC POWER CORD FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE.
NOTE: THE POWER CORD ON THE AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFER MUST REMAIN READILY
ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES.
!
CAUTION
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.

FCC Statement
1. 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.
2. Changes or modications 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 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 o󰀨 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 di󰀨erent from that to which the receiver
is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance of
20 cm between the radiator & your body.

Page 1
AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Contents
Important Safety Precautions and Explanation of Symbols
FCC Statement
Airmotiv XS Subwoofers............................................................................................... 1
Introduction................................................................................................................... 3
Features ....................................................................................................................... 4
Unpacking..................................................................................................................... 5
Quick Start.................................................................................................................... 6
Setting The AC Line Voltage on Your Subwoofer ......................................................... 6
Airmotiv XS Subwoofer Controls & Connections.......................................................... 7
Airmotiv XS15 ............................................................................................................. 10
Airmotiv XS12 ............................................................................................................. 11
Airmotiv XS10 ............................................................................................................. 12
Airmotiv XS8 ............................................................................................................... 13
Subwoofer Placement and Conguration................................................................... 14
Connections................................................................................................................ 17
Care and Maintenance ............................................................................................... 18
Emotiva Audio Corporation Limited Warranty............................................................. 19
Notes .......................................................................................................................... 20
Airmotiv XS Subwoofers

Page 2
AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS

Page 3
AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing one of our new Emotiva Airmotiv™ XS Subwoofers.
Emotiva Airmotiv™ XS Subwoofers were designed to reproduce the lowest frequencies in the
audio spectrum accurately and with exceptionally low distortion - even at high listening levels.
This means that our XS Subwoofers can deliver all of the dynamics and raw power you need
to make a modern movie sound track rattle the walls, but still o󰀨er the precision and superb
musicality you need to get the most from well recorded music. With our XS Subwoofers, you
don’t have to compromise; you really can have it all.
Our XS Subwoofers come in four models: the XS8, XS10, XS12, and XS15. Each model
includes a heavy duty cast frame low frequency driver, and each model is powered by a
powerful audiophile quality Class A/B amplier. The various models o󰀨er identical controls
and features with the main di󰀨erence being that the larger models have more power, can
produce higher output levels, and their frequency response extends lower.
The cabinets, which are quite compact for the performance they deliver, combine massive,
heavily braced construction, and an attractive design aesthetic that blends well with most
decor. The attractive faceted front panels feature an elegant black lacquer nish, and the
sides and rear panels are covered in attractive yet practical textured vinyl. Sculpted cloth grills
perfectly match the outline of the cabinet bevels, and heavy duty integral feet provide support
and minimize vibration. All controls and connections are conveniently located on the rear
panel, which also includes the high-e󰀩ciency heat sinks that provide cooling for the internal
ampliers.
We’re very proud of our new Airmotiv XS Subwoofers, and we hope you’ll enjoy listening to
them as much as we enjoyed designing and producing them for you.
Happy listening!
The Emotiva Team

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Features
Our Emotiva Airmotiv™ XS Subwoofers were designed to o󰀨er truly exceptional
performance and superb sound quality - with both music and movies. Their design and
performance features were carefully chosen to appeal to both home theater bu󰀨s and
audiophiles, with a choice of input options and operating modes well suited to a wide variety
of applications, and the controls needed to perfectly match them to any system or room.
The following are a few of the feature highlights of our Airmotiv XS Subwoofers:
• High performance, compact size, and great sound - All of our Airmotiv XS
subwoofers o󰀨er superb sound quality, low distortion, and high output - in a relatively
compact form factor. They’re also available in four di󰀨erent models - 8”, 10”, 12”, and
15” - so you can choose the perfect combination of maximum output, low frequency
extension, and cabinet size.
• Powerful audiophile quality Class A/B ampliers - powered by oversized toroidal
power transformers, provide our XS subwoofers with plenty of power to fully energize
your room with clean low distortion bass.
• Flexible input and control options - including both balanced and unbalanced inputs, a
phase control, and a LF Boost control, which allows you to customize bass response in
the lowest octave.
• Advanced multi-stage limiter - protects our XS subwoofers from being overdriven, and
keeps distortion from intruding on your listening experience.
• Non-pressed treated paper cones - reinforced with aramid bers for excellent rigidity
and optimal internal acoustic damping.
• Rugged construction - Cast aluminum baskets, tough SBR rubber surrounds, and
large internal clearances on both drivers ensure years of trouble free service.
• Powerful heavy duty motor assembly - includes a large diameter double stacked
ferrite magnet, and a large diameter heavy duty solid copper voice coil on an aluminum
former, for superior power handling and low distortion.
• Plenty of cooling for long life - Forced air cooling, a vented pole piece, and vents
located under the spider, ensure that our drivers remain cool, even with extended use
under demanding operating conditions.
• Tough yet attractive exterior - Several coats of satin-nish lacquer give the front
panel of our Airmotiv subwoofers an elegant understated appearance, while a tough yet
attractive vinyl covering protects the sides and rear from damage and ngerprints.
• Removable sculpted fabric grilles - protect the subwoofer and keep your technology
under wraps, but can be easily removed for cleaning - or to show o󰀨 your XS subwoofer
to your audiophile friends.
• Heavily braced acoustically inert HDF cabinet - ensures that the only sound you’ll
hear from our Airmotiv XS subwoofers is pure clean bass, and integral non-slip rubber
feet ensure that your XS subwoofer will stay exactly where you put it.
• Full ve year warranty - ensures that you’ll enjoy your Airmotiv XS subwoofers for
years to come.
You can nd more information about the Emotiva Airmotiv XS Subwoofers on our website at
www.emotiva.com.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Unpacking
Your Airmotiv XS subwoofer was carefully packed and should reach you in perfect
condition. If you notice any shipping damage or other issues when you unpack it, please
contact Emotiva immediately.
Gently remove your XS subwoofer from the packing carton and remove all wrappings and
shipping material. Avoid pressing directly on the front of the driver.
It is important to save the box and all packing materials in case your XS subwoofer ever
needs to be moved or shipped back to the factory for service.
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place. It is the easiest way to verify your purchase
date for warranty purposes, and may also be required if you ever have to le an insurance
claim.
We truly value customer feedback and would like to hear from you.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Quick Start
To get the most from your Airmotiv XS subwoofer, we urge you to read the entire manual. If
you just can’t wait to hear how great your XS subwoofer sounds, this section will cover the
basics you need to get started.
• Find a secure location for your Airmotiv XS subwoofer.
• Make sure your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer is set for the proper line voltage.
• Insert the IEC power cable provided with your subwoofer into the receptacle on the rear
panel and connect it to an appropriate AC outlet.
• Connect your XS subwoofer to the LFE or subwoofer output on your AVR or pre/pro.
• Congure your AVR or pre/pro to expect a subwoofer.
• Find some music you really like to listen to... with some really impressive bass.
• Enjoy!
While you’re enjoying your XS subwoofer, it would be a great time to read the rest of the
manual to learn more about them.
Setting The AC Line Voltage on Your Subwoofer
If you ordered your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer directly from Emotiva, it should already be set
for the correct line voltage in your area. However, we always recommend conrming the
correct setting before plugging in your XS subwoofer. If you move to a di󰀨erent country, or
a di󰀨erent region, with a di󰀨erent line voltage, you MUST change the Line Voltage Selector
setting on your Airmotiv XS subwoofer to the correct line voltage.
Note: Attempting to operate your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer with the Line Voltage Selector
Switch set to the wrong voltage for your area may result in damage to your XS subwoofer.
In order to change the line voltage on your XS subwoofer, there are two changes which
must be made.
1) Change the setting on the Line Voltage Selector Switch on the rear of the unit to the
correct line voltage for your area.
2) Change the fuse to the appropriate value for your line voltage.
Note:
See pages 7 through 9 for the location of the Line Voltage Selector Switch and Fuse Holder.
Note:
Refer to the markings on the rear panel of your unit for the correct fuse value for the model
of Airmotiv XS subwoofer you have and your line voltage.

Page 7
AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
115v
1
11
3
2
4
5
6
7
10
8
9
12
Airmotiv XS Subwoofer Controls & Connections
All of the controls and input connections on the Airmtoiv XS8, XS10, XS12, and XS15 are
on the rear panel. All four models o󰀨er the same input and control options.
1. RCA Inputs (unbalanced)
The Airmotiv XS subwoofer has two unbalanced line level audio inputs, which are summed
together internally. If your source component provides separate left and right subwoofer
or full range outputs, they should be connected to the Sum and LFE RCA inputs. If your
source provides a single unbalanced subwoofer output, it may be connected to either input.
2. XLR Input (balanced)
If your source component has a single balanced subwoofer or LFE output, then it should be
connected to this input. (If your source component o󰀨ers both balanced and unbalanced
outputs, the balanced connection is preferred because it o󰀨ers better resistance to line
noise, especially if you are using a long interconnect cable, or if your interconnect runs
through the wall or near a power cable.)

Page 8
AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
3. Status Indicator
The Status Indicator will be illuminated green when the Airmotiv XS subwoofer is On, and
will be illuminated red when the subwoofer is in Standby Mode.
4. Power Mode Switch
Note: Your Airmotiv XS subwoofer will only operate if the AC POWER Switch is turned ON.
If the AC POWER Switch is OFF, your subwoofer will NOT operate.
When the Power Mode Switch is set to On, the Airmotiv XS will remain On continuously.
When the Power Mode Switch is set to Auto, the subwoofer will turn On automatically when
incoming audio is detected. Once the subwoofer is On, it will remain On for several minutes;
if no audio is detected after several minutes, the subwoofer will return to Standby Mode.
5. Volume Control
This control sets the relative gain of your subwoofer. Use this control to set the overall
amount of bass delivered by your subwoofer to be a good match for the output of your main
speakers.
6. LF Boost Control
The LF Boost control is used to ne tune the response of the Airmotiv XS subwoofer at very
low frequencies to your room and personal preference. The response of your subwoofer
will be attest with this control set to the vertical (0 dB) position; in the fully counterclockwise
position (left), bass is reduced by approximately -3 dB at 30 Hz; in the fully clockwise
position (right), bass is boosted approximately +9 dB at 30 Hz.
Note: If your system has automatic room correction, you should set this control to its center
(at) position before running room correction. Then, after running room correction, use the
control to add a little more or less low bass to suit your personal preference.
7. Crossover Control
Airmotiv subwoofers include a built-in 12 dB/octave crossover (low pass lter). This control
allows you to adjust the crossover frequency for the best match with your main speakers. If
you’re using your subwoofer with a home theater pre/pro or AVR that has its own
bass management, you should set this control to its highest frequency setting
(fully clockwise - 150 Hz). If not, then the proper setting will depend on your main speakers,
but 80 Hz (about 10 o’clock) is a good starting point - and is often considered to be a
standard setting for home theater equipment.
8. Phase Control
The phase control is used to adjust the phase on your subwoofer to match the phase of
your main speakers. The best setting here will depend on your main speakers and where
your subwoofer is located in relation to them. This control is usually set to the point where
you hear the most bass in the range of frequencies where the subwoofer overlaps with your
main speakers.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
9. Line Voltage Selector
This switch is used to select the appropriate line voltage for your area.
NOTE: BE SURE TO SET THIS SWITCH TO THE CORRECT LINE VOLTAGE FOR YOUR AREA.
IF YOU FAIL TO DO SO DAMAGE TO YOUR AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFER MAY RESULT.
Note: If you change the Line Voltage setting, you should also change the FUSE in the
subwoofer to the appropriate value (fuse values are shown on the rear panel near the fuse
holder).
Note: To change the Line Voltage Selector setting reach through the slot on the clear cover
with a small screwdriver or other pointed tool and slide the switch to the desired setting.
The switch slider will show the value you have selected.
10. IEC Power Cable Receptacle
The IEC Power Cable receptacle accepts any standard IEC power cable. A high quality
commercial power cable is provided with your Airmotiv XS subwoofer.
11. Fuse Holder
To change the fuse in your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer, remove the power cable, then gently
pry the fuse compartment open (the fuse holder opens like a drawer). Replace the fuse with
one of the correct value, replace the fuse drawer, being sure to snap it rmly into place, and
reinsert the power cable.
Note: If the fuse in your subwoofer blows repeatedly without apparent reason, then you
might have an electrical fault in your Airmotiv XS subwoofer, and you should call Emotiva
Technical Support for assistance.
12. AC Power Switch
Use this switch to turn the main AC Power to your Airmotiv XS subwoofer On and O󰀨.
Note: Your subwoofer will only operate if the AC POWER Switch is turned ON. If the AC
POWER Switch is OFF, your subwoofer will NOT operate, and the Power Mode Switch will
have no eect.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Airmotiv XS15
The Airmotiv XS15 is the ideal way to extend the bass
response of your audio system to cover the last few
critical octaves of bass with authority and nesse. The
XS15 can deliver the raw power you need to add that
nal touch of realism to a movie, while still o󰀨ering the
low distortion and precise control you need for accurate,
superb sounding music reproduction.
Driver Complement
Driver: 15” heavy duty long throw subwoofer with cast
aluminum frame, 3” copper voice coil, non-pressed paper
cone reinforced with aramid bers, tough SBR rubber
surround, vented pole piece, and forced air cooling.
Cabinet tuning: Rear tuned slot port.
Cabinet
Heavily braced acoustically inert HDF cabinet with
removable sculpted fabric-covered grill. The front bezel is
nished in several coats of satin nish black lacquer; the
sides and rear are covered in tough attractive textured
vinyl.
Electronics
Amplier type: Audiophile quality Class A/B amplier.
Amplier power: 600 Watts RMS.
Protection: Advanced multi-stage low-distortion limiter.
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 200 Hz (+/- 3 dB).
Inputs: Single XLR balanced input; summed left and right
RCA unbalanced inputs.
Controls: Crossover, Phase, Volume, LF Boost.
AC power: 115 VAC/60 Hz or 230 VAC/50 Hz.
Mechanical
Dimensions: 23-5/8” high x 19-3/4” wide x 24-1/2” deep
(feet included; leave extra room for heat sink and cables).
Weight: 136 pounds (boxed).
Feet: Permanently attached anti-slip rubber feet.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Airmotiv XS12
The Airmotiv XS12 is the ideal way to extend the bass
response of your audio system to cover the last few critical
octaves of bass with authority and nesse. The XS12 can
deliver the raw power you need to add that nal touch of
realism to a movie, while still o󰀨ering the low distortion and
precise control you need for accurate, superb sounding
music reproduction. The XS12 delivers slightly less
low bass extension than the XS15, but is slightly more
compact, and is ideal for smaller rooms.
Driver Complement
Driver: 12” heavy duty long throw subwoofer with cast
aluminum frame, 2-1/2” copper voice coil, non-pressed
paper cone reinforced with aramid bers, tough SBR
rubber surround, vented pole piece, and forced air cooling.
Cabinet tuning: Rear tuned slot port.
Cabinet
Heavily braced acoustically inert HDF cabinet with
removable sculpted fabric-covered grill. The front bezel is
nished in several coats of satin nish black lacquer; the
sides and rear are covered in tough attractive textured
vinyl.
Electronics
Amplier type: Audiophile quality Class A/B amplier.
Amplier power: 500 Watts RMS.
Protection: Advanced multi-stage low-distortion limiter.
Frequency response: 24 Hz - 200 Hz (+/- 3 dB).
Inputs: Single XLR balanced input; summed left and right
RCA unbalanced inputs.
Controls: Crossover, Phase, Volume, LF Boost.
AC power: 115 VAC/60 Hz or 230 VAC/50 Hz.
Mechanical
Dimensions: 20-5/8” high x 17” wide x 19-1/2” deep
(feet included; leave extra room for heat sink and cables).
Weight: 90 pounds (boxed).
Feet: Permanently attached anti-slip rubber feet.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Airmotiv XS10
The Airmotiv XS10 is the ideal way to extend the bass
response of your audio system to cover the last few critical
octaves of bass with authority and nesse. The XS10 can
deliver the raw power you need to add that nal touch of
realism to a movie, while still o󰀨ering the low distortion and
precise control you need for accurate, superb sounding
music reproduction. The Airmotiv XS10 delivers slightly
less low bass output than the XS12, but its smaller footprint
makes it the ideal solution for installations where space is
at a premium.
Driver Complement
Driver: 10” heavy duty long throw subwoofer with cast
aluminum frame, 2” copper voice coil, non-pressed paper
cone reinforced with aramid bers, tough SBR rubber
surround, vented pole piece, and forced air cooling.
Cabinet tuning: Rear tuned slot port.
Cabinet
Heavily braced acoustically inert HDF cabinet with
removable sculpted fabric-covered grill. The front bezel is
nished in several coats of satin nish black lacquer; the
sides and rear are covered in tough attractive textured
vinyl.
Electronics
Amplier type: Audiophile quality Class A/B amplier.
Amplier power: 350 Watts RMS.
Protection: Advanced multi-stage low-distortion limiter.
Frequency response: 26 Hz - 200 Hz (+/- 3 dB).
Inputs: Single XLR balanced input; summed left and right
RCA unbalanced inputs.
Controls: Crossover, Phase, Volume, LF Boost.
AC power: 115 VAC/60 Hz or 230 VAC/50 Hz.
Mechanical
Dimensions: 17-1/4” high x 14-1/4” wide x 17-1/2” deep
(feet included; leave extra room for heat sink and cables).
Weight: 66 pounds (boxed).
Feet: Permanently attached anti-slip rubber feet.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Airmotiv XS8
The Airmotiv XS8 is an excellent way to extend the bass
response of a smaller audio or home theater system to
cover the last few critical octaves of bass with authority and
nesse. The XS8 can deliver plenty of low bass to add that
nal touch of realism to a movie, while still o󰀨ering the low
distortion and precise control you need for accurate, superb
sounding music reproduction. While the XS8 is the smallest
member of our Airmotiv XS Subwoofer family it can still
deliver plenty of clean low bass to o󰀨er a truly impressive
listening experience in installations where space is at a
premium. The Airmotiv XS8 is also a great choice for dual-
subwoofer setups.
Driver Complement
Driver: 8” heavy duty long throw subwoofer with cast
aluminum frame, 1-1/2” copper voice coil, non-pressed
paper cone reinforced with aramid bers, tough SBR rubber
surround, vented pole piece, and forced air cooling.
Cabinet tuning: Rear tuned slot port.
Cabinet
Heavily braced acoustically inert HDF cabinet with
removable sculpted fabric-covered grill. The front bezel is
nished in several coats of satin nish black lacquer; the
sides and rear are covered in tough attractive textured vinyl.
Electronics
Amplier type: Audiophile quality Class A/B amplier.
Amplier power: 250 Watts RMS.
Protection: Advanced multi-stage low-distortion limiter.
Frequency response: 29 Hz - 200 Hz (+/- 3 dB).
Inputs: Single XLR balanced input; summed left and right
RCA unbalanced inputs.
Controls: Crossover, Phase, Volume, LF Boost.
AC power: 115 VAC/60 Hz or 230 VAC/50 Hz.
Mechanical
Dimensions: 14-3/4” high x 11-3/4” wide x 15” deep
(feet included; leave extra room for heat sink and cables).
Weight: 46 pounds (boxed).
Feet: Permanently attached anti-slip rubber feet.

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AIRMOTIV XS SUBWOOFERS
Subwoofer Placement and Conguration
The best location for your subwoofer will depend on a lot of things - including the acoustics
of your room, the characteristics of your main speakers, and practical considerations like
where you have room for it. (Whole books have been written about the subject - and even
experts often disagree.) The important thing is to nd a location that delivers the sound you
want, and ts with your room decor.
Some frequently chosen locations include: in the front between your main front speakers, in
a front or rear corner, or in the center of a side wall or rear wall. Each has advantages and
disadvantages, and each may or may not work well in your particular system.
One way of choosing a good location is sometimes humorously referred to as the
“subwoofer crawl”. To use this method, you connect your subwoofer temporarily to your
audio system, place the sub in your normal listening position, where you would normally sit,
and play music through it with plenty of bass. You then crawl around on the oor, stopping
and listening at each location where you’re considering putting your sub. Once you nd the
spot where the bass sounds the best and cleanest, you switch places with the subwoofer,
placing it in the location where the bass sounded the best. This often turns out to be a good
location for your subwoofer.
How you congure your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer will depend on the type of system
you have.
Note: Your Airmotiv XS Subwoofer contains a powerful Class A/B amplier. The heat sinks
for this amplier are attached to the back of the subwoofer, in the center of the amp plate.
IT IS NORMAL FOR THE HEAT SINKS TO GET QUITE WARM when your subwoofer is played
loudly for extended periods of time.
WARNING: YOU MUST ALLOW SEVERAL INCHES OF CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE REAR
PLATE OF YOUR XS SUBWOOFER AND THE NEAREST WALL OR OTHER SURFACE TO
ALLOW AIR FLOW AROUND THE HEAT SINK FINS TO ENSURE ADEQUATE COOLING! DO
NOT PUSH THE REAR PANEL OF YOUR XS SUBWOOFER TIGHT AGAINST A WALL! DO
NOT PUSH THE REAR OF THE UNIT AGAINST DRAPES OR SOFT FURNITURE THAT WILL
BLOCK AIR FLOW TO THE REAR HEAT SINK FINS! (Your XS subwoofer includes internal
safety protection against overheating, but operating it for excessive periods of time without
adequate cooling will impair proper operation and shorten component life.)
Conguring your XS Subwoofer to Work with an AVR or Processor
Setting your XS subwoofer to work with an AVR or pre/pro that has its own bass
management is quite simple (this will work for most systems that have a subwoofer output).
1. Connect the subwoofer or LFE output on your pre/pro or receiver to the one of the inputs
on your XS subwoofer.
2. Set the Crossover Control on the XS subwoofer fully clockwise (to 150 Hz / LFE).
3. Set the Volume Control on the XS subwoofer to a setting where the level of the low bass
seems about right by ear.