NEAR 6XL Guide

Model 6XL
Power Amplifier
Installation and Use Manual
© 2014 Bogen Communications, Inc.
All rights reserved.
54-2224-01A 1402

CAUTION: TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrow-
head symbol, within an equilater-
al triangle, is intended to alert the
user to the presence of uninsu-
lated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may
be of sufficient magnitude to con-
stitute 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 mainte-
nance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the
appliance.
Every effort was made to ensure that the information in this
guide was complete and accurate at the time of printing.
However, information is subject to change.
WARNING: To Reduce The Risk of Fire Or Electric Shock,
Do Not Expose This Apparatus To Rain Or Moisture.
Always follow these basic safety precautions when
installing and using the unit:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. DO NOT use this apparatus near water. The apparatus
shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no
objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be
placed on the apparatus.
6. Clean only with 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 radia-
tors, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (includ-
ing 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, are 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 recepta-
cles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
13. 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 normal-
ly, or has been dropped.
NOTICE
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Contents
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................1
Package Contents ........................................................................................................1
PANEL DESCRIPTIONS ......................................................................................2-3
6XL Front Panel ..........................................................................................................2
6XL Rear Panel ............................................................................................................3
INSTALLATION ........................................................................................................4-5
Mechanical Components..............................................................................................4
Ventilation ....................................................................................................................5
Rack Mounting ............................................................................................................5
Rear Rack Mounting ....................................................................................................5
Table Mounting ............................................................................................................5
CONNECTIONS..........................................................................................................6
Speakers ......................................................................................................................6
Inputs............................................................................................................................6
OPERATION ................................................................................................................7
Front Controls & Indicators ..........................................................................................7
Rear Controls & Indicators ..........................................................................................7
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................................8
SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................................................9
LIMITED WARRANTY; EXCLUSION OF CERTAIN DAMAGES ..........10

iii
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1
Introduction
The NEARTM 6XL Power Amplifier delivers on what professional sound installers
require most: Power and Reliability.
Power
The 6XL provides 2 independent channels of amplification at 600W per channel
into 70V constant-voltage and 8-ohm speaker loads safely and securely. Located
on the rear of the amplifier are the Level Controls, High-Pass and Low-Pass Filter
Switches, and XLR/RCA inputs for each amplifier channel. The amplifier is
powerful (with total system power of 1200W with both channels driven), but also
compact — using up only 2 rack spaces (3-1/2") in a standard 19" rack.
Reliability and Functionality
Driven by a conservatively-rated toroidal power transformer, the amplifier is built
for solid performance with low distortion and a high slew rate. The amplifier
requires little maintenance and cleaning as internal electronic components are
located outside of the forced air stream flow. Front-mounted fan filters provide
easy removal and cleaning.
The 6XL amplifier has a variety of electronic protection circuits including overcur-
rent, DC voltage, and thermal circuits. A special Clip/Limiting circuit continuously
monitors the amount of distortion in the output signal and reduces input levels
as the amplifier approaches clipping. Back-Slope™ AC Voltage Stabilization,
Bogen‘s patented voltage stabilization circuitry, regulates the AC energy supplied
from the power toroid. This improves both system performance and reliability
despite varying AC supply conditions.
An energy-conserving sleep mode (defeatable) with instant-on return signal oper-
ation reduces wasted heat production in systems when not in use. In addition,
large output heat sinks and dual independently-controlled, high-output, variable
speed fans provide superior cooling and quiet operation while reducing dust
accumulation.
Package Contents:
• 6XL Power Amplifier
• 2 Rack Ears for Mounting
• 2 Filters and Grilles
• 4 Rubber Feet & Screws
• Instruction Manual

2
Panel Description
1. Status Indicators - The Status LEDs are multi-purpose indicators, one for each channel.
Green - Amplifier is on and operating normally.
Amber - Amplifier is in low-power consumption Sleep Mode.
Red - Amplifier has protected itself due to a fault condition.
2. Signal Indicators - These illuminate green when signal is present at the output, one for each channel.
3. Limit Indicators - These indicators illuminate amber when excessive signal levels or very low imped-
ance output loads cause output distortion to exceed a few percent. Under such conditions, a built-in
Clip/Limiting circuit activates and reduces input signal levels to protect both amplifier and speaker
loads. One for each channel.
4. Power Switch/Circuit Breaker - Magnetic circuit breaker switch controls AC power to the amplifier.
5. Fan Air Intake and Grilles - Air intakes for 2 independent, variable-speed cooling fans. Each responds
as needed to keep the amplifier cool while reducing dust build-up. Removable fan grilles are provided
to allow access to the dust filters for cleaning.
6XL Front Panel

3
Panel Description
1. Speaker Terminals - Connects to speaker loads. One set for each amplifier section. Accepts up to
#10 AWG wire or spade lugs for speaker system connections.
2. Ground Terminal - Provides convenient access to earth ground.
3. HIGH-Pass/LOW-Pass Filters- High-Pass rolls off frequencies below 85 Hz (2nd order). Low-Pass
rolls off frequencies above 85 Hz (2nd order). In addition, Low-Pass enables subwoofer preset EQ, one
per channel.
4. Channel Level Controls - Continuously variable channel level controls, one per channel.
5.
STEREO/MONO Select Switch - Allows Input A and Input B to sum and then “Y” to each output channel.
6. Fan Exhausts - Cooling air outlets for independent, variable speed cooling fans. One per channel.
7. Line Cord - AC mains line cord.
8. Automatic Sleep Mode - Allows the unit to automatically put itself into sleep mode when there has
been no input signal for more than 3 minutes. In sleep mode, the amplifier’s idle power is greatly
reduced. The amplifier immediately and noiselessly returns to its full-powered state when a signal is
detected at an input.
9. High-Impedance Unbalanced Inputs - RCA Type connectors allow for easy installation and provide
convenient connections to high-impedance unbalanced inputs. One per channel.
10. High-Impedance Balanced Inputs - XLR female connectors allow for easy installation and provide
convenient connections to high-impedance balanced inputs. One per channel.
6XL Rear Panel

1. Rack Ears - Prior to installing the amplifier into a 19" rack, you will need to attach the
rack ears. Remove and save the 6 front-most cover screws on each side panel of the
amplifier. Position the rack ears as shown and attach using the 6 screws.
2. Dust Filter - Insert the dust filter into the fan grille before attaching the fan grille to the
amplifier.
Filter Maintenance
Dust filters are provided to reduce the build up of dust on the heat sinks. Periodic
cleaning should be done when there is a noticeable build up of dust on the filters. To
clean the filters, remove them from the grilles and wash, vacuum, or tap them out.
Promptly replace them.
Caution: The fan blades are accessible when the grille cover and filter are removed.
Be careful not to place your finger or other objects into the fan.
3. Fan Grille - To attach the fan grilles: first, slide the tabs on the wider end of the grille
(A) in to the notches in the front, center casting of the amplifier. Snap the other end of
the grille (B) in to the snap slots. Check that the grille is securely in place. To remove,
pry the end of the cover closest to the rack ears up until the snap tabs disengage.
4
Installation
Mechanical Components

5
Installation
Ventilation
The 6XL amplifier was designed to be placed on a table or rack-mounted. For rack-mounted applica-
tions, the amplifier(s) can be stacked one on top of the other for maximum use of the rack space
available without any extra, empty rack spaces between them.
An open air space of at least 4" must be provided at the front air intakes of the amplifier and the rear
exhaust must have at least 4" between itself and obstructions to ensure adequate cooling. This
applies whether rack- or table-mounted.
Care should also be taken to ensure that the front intake air is not considerably warmer than the ambi-
ent air temperature. Mount the amplifiers low in the rack so that heat dissipation from other equipment
does not warm the amplifier's intake air.
Rack Mounting
Rack ears are included with the amplifier to allow
mounting in 19" racks. Attach the rack ears as shown
in the Mechanical Components section. If any feet
have been attached to the bottom of the amplifier,
remove them. Load the amplifier into the rack and
secure it to the rack with appropriate hardware (not
included).
Rear Rack Mounting
(Optional accessory, not included)
For greater rear support when rack-mounting a 6XL
amplifier, the RPK86 Rack Mounting Kit can be
attached to the rear of the amplifier by following these
steps:
1. Remove and save the three rear-most cover
screws from the chassis side.
2. Position the rack attachment as shown.
3. Replace and tighten the three cover screws
to secure the rack attachments.
4. Repeat on opposite side of amplifier.
Table Mounting
Rubber Feet are provided with the amplifier to allow it to
be placed on a tabletop. Attach the included feet to the
bottom of the amplifier as shown. Attachment of the rack
ears to the unit is optional and purely aesthetic.

6
Connections
For 70V and 8-ohm Speakers
The 6XL was designed to drive 70V constant voltage and 8-ohm
type speaker loads. The use of lower impedance speakers may
cause the amplifier to engage its protection circuits and shut
down or limit amplifier function. The speaker terminals can
accept up to a #10 AWG wire or spade lug and have integral
clamping plates which make wiring easier. The polarity of each
set of speaker outputs (A & B) is indicated with a “+” and “-” sign.
Use these indicators to ensure that the polarity of the speakers is
correct. Do not ground the “+” output of either set of outputs.
Doing so will cause the amplifier to go into protect mode, shutting
down operation of the affected channel.
Note: The “+” and “-” indicators are mirrored on the “A” and “B”
outputs. Be sure to make the correct connections.
Earth Ground Terminal
The Earth Ground Terminal is provided as a convenient means
to connect to the amplifier’s chassis/AC ground, if necessary.
DO NOT connect the earth ground terminal to the “+” terminals
of either output. No damage will occur if this is accidently done,
but the amplifier will go into protect mode and shut down the
affected channel.
Speakers
Balanced Input Connections
Balanced input connections are used when the source device
provides a balanced output signal (signal “+”, signal “-”, and
ground “G”). This type of connection is desirable when operating
in electrically noisy environments, where long input cable runs
are needed, or to ensure the lowest noise operation.
If compatible with the source device, this type of connection is
recommended.
Unbalanced Input Connections
Unbalanced input connections are used when the source device
provides an unbalanced output signal (signal “+” and ground
“G”). Since unbalanced connections do not provide the same
amount of noise immunity that a balanced connection does, the
connection distances should be made as short as possible.
Inputs

7
Operation
Power Switch
The Power Switch is located on the front of the 6XL unit. Press the “I” side of
the switch to turn the unit ON. The amplifier will begin its power-up process
once turned on. The power switch is also the amplifier’s circuit breaker.
Should the breaker trip, simply place it in the OFF position (“O”) and then
switch back to ON to reset the breaker.
Front LED Indicators
The front of the 6XL contains 3 different types of LED indicators for each channel :
LIMIT - When illuminated, it indicates a condition in which the amplifier is
limiting and automatically reducing signal level to reduce the overload
condition. Limiting is a result of speaker load impedances that are too low
or input signals that are too high, which would then drive the outputs
beyond their operational ranges.
STATUS - Illuminates in 3 different colors to indicate current status:
GREEN - Indicates that the amplifier is operating normally.
AMBER - Indicates that the amplifier is in Sleep Mode.
RED - Indicates a fault condition exists and that the amplifier
has disconnected the output load as a safety precaution.
SIGNAL - When Illuminated, it indicates that there is signal at the output.
Front Controls and Indicators
Level Controls
Use the rear-mounted Level Controls on the 6XL amplifier to adjust output
volume of each channel independently.
Sleep Switch
The amplifier includes a sleep mode feature that greatly reduces the power con-
sumption of the amplifier after it has been idle (no audio activity) for more than
3 minutes. Any audio activity present at the input will power up the amplifier
instantaneously and noiselessly, so that there is no loss of audio. The sleep fea-
ture is activated by setting the switch to the AUTO position. Setting the switch
to the OFF position will inhibit the amplifier from ever entering sleep mode.
Filters
The High-Pass Filter allows a low-frequency roll-off starting at 85 Hz to be
introduced into the signal path preventing the speakers from receiving too
much low-frequency content.
Stereo/Mono Switch
In Stereo mode, Input A drives output Channel A and Input B drives Channel B.
In Mono mode, Input A & B are summed and then “Y” to output Channels A & B.
The Low-Pass Filter allows a high-frequency roll-off starting at 85 Hz to be
introduced into the signal path preventing the speakers from receiving too
much high-frequency content. In addition, the low-pass filter introduces a
specifically designed subwoofer EQ circuit.
Note: The 6XL Power Amplifier is a direct-coupled amplifier, which means
that there are no output transformers used to deliver the 70V audio to the
speakers. Because of this, it has a flat frequency response down to and below
20 Hz.
Rear Controls and Indicators

Troubleshooting
8
• Power Switch OFF
• Breaker (Power Switch) Tripped
- Turn OFF, then Turn Back ON
• Amplifier Not Plugged In
• AC Outlet Dead
PROBLEM CONDITION CAUSE
No Front Status LED
UNIT APPEARS
DEAD
• Poor/Broken Speaker Wiring
• Defective Speakers
• Filter Switch Not Set Correctly
• Poor Electrical Connections at Input
• Input Cable Routed near AC Cables, Power Transformer, or
other EMI Radiating Devices
• Electrically Noisy Devices Operating on the Same AC Circuit
• Poor Equipment Grounding
- Ensure that all AC Safety Grounds are Connected
- Make sure that all Components in Audio Chain are
tied to the same Ground
NO SOUND
NOISE/HUM
DISTORTED
SOUND
INTERMITTENT
OPERATION
Status LED is Green.
Signal LED is off.
• Level Controls Turned Down
• No Signal from Source
• Input Not Set or Wired Properly
Status LED is Green.
Signal LED is Green.
Limit LED is off.
Status LED is Green.
Signal LED is Green.
Limit LED is off.
• Input Signal Level Too High
• Poor Speaker Connections
• Filter Switch Not Set Correctly
Status LED is Green.
Signal LED is Green.
Limit LED is Amber (on or
flashing).
• Speaker Transformers Saturating at Low Frequencies, Low Cut
Filter OFF, Need Additional High-Pass Filtering
• Below Minimum Load Rating on Output
• Exceeding Maximum Power Output Rating
Status LED is red/green cycling.
• DC Level at Signal Input
• Load Impedance Too Low
• Amplifier Speaker Output is Short-circuited
• Amplifier Too Hot (Check for Proper Ventilation Clearances)
Status LED is green.
Signal LED is green.

Specifications
9
Power Output* .......................................... 600W / Ch @ 70V/ 8 ohms
Input Sensitivity ........................................ 1V
S/N Ratio (20 kHz BW).............................. 104 dB ref. 70V, F.P.
Class of Operation.................................... H
Connector
Power...................................................... 15A Line Cord
Input........................................................ XLR / RCA
Output .................................................... 5-Pin “Touch-Proof” Barrier Strip
Power Bandwidth...................................... 20 Hz to 40 kHz < 0.5% THD
THD @ 1 kHz Rated Power ...................... less than 0.05%
Rated Load Impedance ............................ 8 ohms
Frequency Response @ 1 watt................ 20 Hz to 20 kHz +/- 0.25 dB
Output Regulation .................................... 1.5 dB @ 70V
Inputs ........................................................ 25k-ohm electronically balanced, XLRF
50k-ohm unbalanced, RCA
Filter .......................................................... 85 Hz, 2nd order roll-off, High-Pass/
Low-Pass switch, selectable per channel
AC Current Rating (full-power)................ 20A
AC Voltage ................................................ 120V AC, 60 Hz
Indicators .................................................. Status, Limit, Signal
Cooling ...................................................... Dual independent; Forced Air Variable
Speed Fan
Dimensions (W x H x D) .......................... 17” W x 3-1/2” H x 18-1/4” D
Product Weight ........................................ 46 lb.
Protection .................................................. R.F., DC, Low-frequency, Thermal Low-
impedance, Circuit Breaker, Short Circuit,
Clip Limiting
Special Features ...................................... Sleep Mode (defeatable), Filter,
Back-SlopeTM, AC Voltage regulation,
Toroidal Power Transformer
Approvals .................................................. Listed to UL Standard 60065 for
U.S. and Canada
* Both Channels driven at nominal line voltage 120V AC, 60 Hz.

Warranty
10
The NEAR™ 6XL Power Amplifier is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship
for 3 (three) years from the date of sale to the original purchaser. Any part of any NEAR product
covered by this warranty that, with normal installation and use, becomes defective (as confirmed by
Bogen upon inspection) during the applicable warranty period, will be repaired or replaced by Bogen,
at Bogen’s option, provided the product is shipped insured and prepaid to: Bogen Factory Service
Department, 50 Spring Street, Ramsey, NJ 07446, USA. Repaired or replacement product will be
returned to you freight prepaid. This warranty does not extend to any of our products that have been
subjected to abuse, misuse, improper storage, neglect, accident, improper installation or have been
modified or repaired or altered in any manner whatsoever, or where the serial number or date code has
been removed or defaced.
THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY IS BOGEN’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY AND
THE PURCHASER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR NEAR PRODUCTS. BOGEN MAKES
NO OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE HERE-
BY DISCLAIMED AND EXCLUDED TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT ALLOWABLE BY LAW. Bogen's
liability arising out of the manufacture, sale or supplying of NEAR products or their use or disposition,
whether based upon warranty, contract, tort or otherwise, shall be limited to the price of the product.
IN NO EVENT SHALL BOGEN BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF DATA OR LOSS OF
USE DAMAGES) ARISING OUT OF THE MANUFACTURE, SALE OR SUPPLYING OF NEAR PROD-
UCTS, EVEN IF BOGEN HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR
LOSSES. Some States do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights,
and you may also have other rights which vary from State to State.
NEAR products that are out of warranty will also be repaired by the Bogen Factory Service Department
-- same address as above or call 201-934-8500. The parts and labor involved in these repairs are
warranted for 90 days when repaired by the Bogen Factory Service Department. All shipping charges
in addition to parts and labor charges will be at the owner's expense. All returns require a Return
Authorization number. For most efficient warranty or repair service, please include a description of
the failure.
NEAR Products manufactured and labeled by other companies may be covered by warranties offered
by such companies. Please call Bogen Customer Service or refer to product packaging for manufac-
turer’s warranty for non-NEAR branded products.
11/2008
Limited Warranty; Exclusion of Certain Damages

Notes

NEAR is a Division of Bogen Communications, Inc.
50 Spring Street, Ramsey, NJ 07446, USA • Tel. [phone] • www.bogen.com
www.nearspeakers.com