Niles SWA-500M User manual

INSTALLATION
GUIDE
FOR
USE
WITH
NilES
PASSIVE
SUBWOOFERS
SUBWOOFER
AMPLIFIER
SWA-500M

CONGRATULATIONS!
Thank you for purchasing the Niles SWA-500M. The SWA-500M is a Class D mono amplifier
designed to power up to two passive (non-powered) subwoofers. Like all Niles products, the
SWA-500M is built to the highest standards of quality and reliability, and with proper installation
and operation, you'll enjoy years of trouble-free use.
Niles is one of the industry's most respected manufacturers of custom installation audio/
video components and accessories. To see the complete line of Niles products, visit us at:
www.nilesaudio.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
1
Important Safety Instructions
2
Features and Benefits
3
Cleaning
4
Installation Considerations
4
Connecting the SWA-500M
6
Controls and Connectors
7
Signal Connectors and Power Controls
8
Applications
11
Calibrating the SWA-500M
15
Checking Phase on the Satellite Loudspeakers
17
Troubleshooting Guide
18
Specifications
19
Limited Warranty
20
Warranty Registration Card
21

• • • • •
INTRODUCTION
Bass
or
low
frequency
effect
(LFE)
is
a
critical
part
of
a
well
designed
audio/video
system.
The
Niles
SWA-500M
is
a
highly
efficient
Class
D
amplifier
designed
specifically
for
up
to
two
passive
(non-powered)
subwoofers.
When
combined
with
high
quality
subwoofers,
the
SWA-500M
will
provide
excellent
bass
reinforcement
for
home
theater
and
home
audio
applications.
Installing
the
right
amplifier
for
your
subwoofer(s)
will
give
you
that
thunderous,
accurate
bass
that
makes
movies
and
music
so
enjoyable.
The
SWA-500M
uses
the
latest
Class
D
technology.
Class
D
amplifiers
are
beautifully
efficient
so
you'll
get
a
lot
more
power
with
less
current.
Less
input
current
reduces
power
supply
size
and
generates
less
waste
heat.
This
process
allows
Class
D
amps
like
the
SWA-500M
to
produce
more
power
than
amps
of
larger
size.
As
you
read
this
manual
and
become
more
familiar
with
the
SWA-500M
and
Class
D
technology,
you'll
understand
why
Niles
products
are
unequaled.
Figure 1.
Niles
SWA-500M
high-power
subwoofer
amplifier.
NILES
AUDIO
CORPORATION
-
1-800-BUY-HIFI
--------------
1

2
IMPORTANT
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
.I._
cAUTioN
A
CAUTION:
TO
REDUCE
THE
RISK
OF
ELECTRICAL
SHOCK.
DO
NOT
REMOVE
COVER.
NO
USER
SERVICEABLE
PARTS
INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING
TO
QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL
.
1.
Read
these
instructions.
2.
Keep
these
instructions.
3.
Heed
all
warnings.
4.
Follow
all
instructions.
The
lightning
flash
with
arrowhead
symbol
within
an
equilateral
triangle
is
intended
to
alert
the
user
to
the
presence
of
uninsulated
dangerous
voltage
within
the
product's
enclosure
that
may
be
of
sufficient
magnitude
to
constitute
a
risk
of
electric
shock
to
persons.
The
exclamation
point
within
an
equivalent
triangle
is
intended
to
alert
the
user
to
the
presence
of
important
operating
and
maintenance
(servicing)
instructions
in
the
literature
accompanying
the
appliance.
WARNING:
To
reduce
the
risk
of
fire
or
electrical
shock,
do
not
expose
this
equipment
to
rain
or
moisture
5.
Do
not
use
this
apparatus
near
water.
6.
Clean
only
with
a
dry
cloth.
7.
Do
not
block
any
ventilation
openings.
Install
in
according
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
are
provided
for
your
safety.
If
the
provided
plug
does
not
fit
into
your
outlet,
consult
an
electrician
for
replacement
of
the
obsolete
outlet.
1
0.
Protect
the
power
cord
from
being
walked
on
or
pinched
particularly
at
plug,
convenience
receptacles,
and
the
point
where
they
exit
from
the
apparatus.
11.
Unplug
this
apparatus
during
lightening
storms
or
when
unused
for
long
periods
of
time.
12.
Only
use
attachments
and
accessories
specified
by
the
manufacturer.
13.
Use
only
with
a
cart,
stand
rack,
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.
14.
Refer
all
servicing
to
qualified
service
personnel.
Servicing
is
required
when
the apparatus
has
been
damaged
in
any
way
such
as
the
power
plug
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.
Do
not
expose
this
equipment
to
dripping
or
splashing
and
ensure
that
no
objects
filled
with
liquid,
such
as
vases
or
drinks,
are
placed
on
the
equipment.
16.
To
completely
disconnect
this
equipment
from
the
AC
mains,
disconnect
the
power
supply
cord
plug
from
the
AC
receptacle.
17.
The
main
plug
of
the
power
supply
cord
shall
remain
readily
operable.

• • • • •
FEATURES
AND
BENEFITS
MAXIMUM
SUBWOOFER PERFORMANCE
The
SWA-500M
Class
D
amplifier
is
designed
specifically
for
bass
reinforcement
for
passive
(non-
powered)
subwoofers.
The
SWA-500M
provides
500
Watts
Continuous
Output
Power
(<1°/o
THO
+N
into
4
ohm).
Because
the
SWA-500M's
power
output
is
dedicated
to
low
frequency
effects,
you'll
get
the
maximum
performance
your
subwoofer(s)
can
provide.
SMOOTH
AND
ACCURATE BASS
The
SWA-500M
Class
D
amplifier
will
deliver
strong,
smooth
bass
with
breathtaking
realism.
The
advanced
audio
circuitry
and
high
quality
components
inside
the
SWA-500M
deliver
fast
and
accurate
power
to
your
subwoofers.
Variable
low
pass/variable
high
pass
filters
reduce
unwanted
frequencies
so
your
subwoofers
can
focus
on
what
they
do
best-reproducing
great
low
frequency
sound
effects.
EFFICIENT AMPLIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
The
SWA-500M's
digital
amplifier
circuitry
and
quality
components
ensure
superior
sound
quality
.
.
This
high
power
stand-alone
subwoofer
amplifier
will
deliver
more
power
with
reduced
current
demands
than
conventional
amplifiers.
PERSONAL BASS CONTROL
The
SWA-500M's
controls
are
located
in
the
front
and
enable
you
to
set
the
desired
bass
level
according
to
your
personal
taste
for
music
and
movies.
A
bass
boost
selector
located
on
the
back
enables
you
to
select
a
frequency
to
enhance
the
sound
of
the
connected
subwoofer(s).
FLEXIBLE
INSTALLATION & MULTIPLE BASS CAPABILITY
Whether
you
have
a
large
dedicated
home
theater,
sophisticated
listening
room,
or
a
simple
audio/video
system,
the
SWA-500M
can
be
configured
for
use
with
various
audio
components
like
preamp
processors
and
receivers.
In
addition,
the
SWA-500M's
internal
circuitry
and
sub
switch
feature
allow
you
to
connect
up
to
two
passive
subwoofers
(the
recommended
number
by
home
theater
professionals)
and
enjoy
rich
bass
with
superior
sonic
quality.
QUALITY
YOU
CAN
COUNT
ON
Since
1978,
Niles
Audio
has
been
a
leading
manufacturer
of
custom-installed
home
entertainment
products.
Recognized
around
the
world
for
designing
and
manufacturing
reliable,
durable,
solution-based
products,
Niles
offers
more
than
500
products
for
whole-house
distribution
and
integration
of
audio/video
systems,
loudspeakers,
receivers,
amplifiers,
automation
devices,
controls,
and
accessories.
NILES
AUDIO
CORPOR~ION-
1-800-BU~HIFI
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3

4
CLEANING
Do
not
use
cleaning
liquids
or
chemicals
on
this
product.
Use
a
dry,
soft
cloth
or
paper
towel
to
clean.
Do
not
expose
this
equipment
to
dripping
or
splashing
and
ensure
that
no
objects
filled
with
liquid,
such
as
vases
or
drinks,
are
placed
on
the
equipment.
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
SWA-SOOM
PLACEMENT
The
SWA-500M
Subwoofer
amplifier
is
designed
for
home
theater
and
home
audio
bass
reinforcement.
Place
the
SWA-500M
on
a
sturdy
shelf
or
mount
the
SWA-500M
in
a
rack
using
the
included
rack
'ears.'
Make
sure
that
the
location
you
choose
can
support
the
weight
of
the
amp.
Like
all
hi-fi
components,
the
SWA-500M
should
have
proper
ventilation,
and
the
ventilation
slots
in
the
amp's
cover
should
not
be
obstructed.
When
rack
mounting
the
amplifier,
ensure
good
airflow
and
adequate
ventilation
(3.5"
minimum
open
space)
around
the
unit.
If
you
are
placing
the
SWA-500M
inside
a
cabinet,
be
sure
that
the
rear
of
the
cabinet
is
open
to
fresh
air
for
proper
cooling.
If
you
are
not
rack
mounting
this
amplifier,
make
sure
that
it
is
placed
on
a
flat
level
surface.
Never
block
the
amplifier's
ventilation
slots
or
expose
the
amplifier
to
moisture
or
heat
sources.
Figure
2.
Cabinet
installation
~///////////////////////////////////////////////M
Make
sure
that
there
is
a
minimum
of
3-1/2
11
of
free
air
space
above
the
amplifier
for
proper
ventilation.
~~~
•
•
Allow
a
minimum
of
3-1/2
11
of
depth
behind
unit
to
accommodate
cables
and
connectors.
Figure
3.
Enclosed
cabinet
installation
•
I I
If
mounting
the
SWA-500M
inside
a
cabinet,
be
sure
the
amp
has
proper
ventilation.
Consider
using
the
Niles
FM-1
R
or
FM-1
system
cooling
module.

• • • • •
RACK MOUNTING THE SWA-500M
1. Before installing the rack ears, remove the screws attached to the sides of the unit.
Install the included rack ears as shown in Figure 4 using a #2 Phillips screwdriver. Do
not use any other screws or damage to the amplifier may result.
2. Place the SWA-500M in desired location within rack. Support the weight of the
amplifier from the bottom and carefully install the left and right lower rack ear
screws first.
3. Once the lower screws are completely installed, you may release the bottom of the
amplifier to install the left and right upper rack ear screws last.
4. Connect the amplifier according to the type of system desired.
NOTE: SEE APPLICATIONS STARTING ON PAGE 11 FOR DETAILED WIRING CONNECTIONS FOR
YOUR APPLICATION.
Figure 4. Install the included rack ears as shown using a #2 Phillips screwdriver
NILES AUDIO CORPOR~ION- 1-800-BU~HIFI ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5

6
CONNECTING
THE
SWA-SOOM
CAUTION:
BEFORE
MAKING
ANY
CONNECTIONS,
BE
SURE
TO
TURN
OFF
ALL
COMPONENTS
IN
THE
SYSTEM,
INCLUDING
LOUDSPEAKERS.
CONNECTION TO
AUDIO/VIDEO
SOURCES
The
SWA-500M
connects
to
audio/video
sources
via
RCA
audio
cables
(also
called
line
level).
These
inputs
accept
audio
signals
from
a
receiver
or
surround
sound
processor.
For
line-level
connections,
only
use
high-quality
RCA
cables
that
feature
low
impedance,
double
shieldir~
and
gold-plated
connectors.
This
will
help
ensure
the
lowest
possible
noise
and
best
overall
performance.
(See
CONTROLS
AND
CONNECTORS
on
page
7.
Your
authorized
Niles
dealer
can
recommend
good
quality
cable.)
LOUDSPEAKER WIRE
To
connect
the
SWA-500M
to
your
subwoofers(s),
use
an
insulated
2-conductor
loudspeaker
wire
(see
CONTROLS
AND
CONNECTORS
on
page
7).
The
SWA-500M
gold-plated,
5-way
binding
posts
will
accept
bare
wire,
banana
plugs,
and
spade-type
plugs.
We
recommend
using
a
minimum
of
16-gauge
wire.
For
wiring
runs
longer
than
40
feet,
we
recommend
14-gauge
wire.
The
SWA-
500M's
5-way
binding
posts
will
accommodate
up
to
12-gauge
wire
directly.
Larger
sizes
can
be
accommodated
via
pin
connectors.
To
maximize
performance,
consider
purchasing
special
high-
quality
speaker
cables.
Consult
your
Niles
dealer
to
find
the
right
cables
for
your
system.
Be
sure
to
observe
correct
polarity
when
connecting
your
loudspeakers.
Positive(+)
goes
to
the
RED
post
and
negative
(-)
goes
to
the
BLACK
post.
If
the
polarity
of
one
connection
is
accidentaUy
reversed,
your
bass
output
will
be
very
weak
and
imaging
will
sound
smeared.
Figure
5.
Connecting
loudspeaker
to
SWA-500M

• • • • •
RUNNING
WIRES
IN
WALLS OR CEILINGS
When
running
wire
inside
walls
or
ceilings,
use
special
jacketed
cable
(CL
-2
or
CL
-3)
to
protect
the
wire
and
to
meet
local
electrical
and
fire
codes.
In
some
areas,
conduit
is
also
required.
For
a
trouble-free
installation,
low-voltage
wire
such
as
loudspeaker
wire
must
be
run
in
accordance
with
the
National
Electrical
Code
and
any
applicable
provisions
of
the
local
building
code.
If
you
are
unsure
of
the
correct
installation
techniques,
wire
jacket,
or
type
of
conduit
to
use,
consult
a
professional
audio/video
installer,
building
contractor,
or
the
local
building
and
inspection
department.
~
CONTROLS AND CONNECTORS
The
SWA-500M's
easy
operation
controls
are
located
on
the
unit's
front
panel,
as
shown
in
Figure 6.
The
controls
function
as
follows:
6 3 4 5 7 8 2
-NILES
SWA-500M
1
Figure
6.
Front
Panel
control
on
the
SWA-500M
1.
(J'VIaster)
POWER
Switch:
Use
this
control
to
power
the
SWA-500M
On
or
Off.
2.
MUSIC/MOVIE
LEVEL
and
SETUP
Controls:
Because
bass
levels
will
differ
depending
on
whether
you
are
watching
a
movie
or
listening
to
music,
the
SWA-500M
includes
MUSIC/MOVIE
LEVEL
and
SETUP
Controls.
While
listening
to
music,
push
the
SETUP
switch
to
MUSIC
and
adjust
the
MUSIC
LEVEL
control
to
set
your
desired
bass
level.
Similarly,
while
listening
to
a
movie,
push
the
SETUP
switch
to
MOVIE
and
adjust
the
MOVIE
LEVEL
control
to
set
the
desired
bass
level.
Each
level
control
includes
an
LED
indicator
to
identify
which
one
is
currently
active
as
triggered
by
your
home
theater
sound
processor
or
receiver.
Also
see
CALIBRATING
THE
SWA-500M
on
page
15.
3.
LOW
PASS
Frequency
Control:
Use
this
control
to
set
the
subwoofer's
low-pass
crossover
frequency
from
40
to
120Hz.
For
more
details,
see
CALIBRATING
THE
SWA-500M
on
page
15.
4.
PHASE
Control:
Use
this
control
to
set
the
subwoofer's
phase
response
from
0
to
180°.
See
CALIBRATING
THE
SWA-500M
on
page
15.
(CONTINUED
ON
NEXT
PAGE)
NILES
AUDIO
CORPOR~ION-
1-800-BU~HIFI
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
7

8
5.
HIGH
PASS
Frequency
adjustment
with
ON/OFF
switch:
This
feature
allows
you
to
run
RIL
loudspeaker
wires
(RCA
line
level
wires)
from
an
amp/receiver/processor
into
the
SWA-500M
and
then
back
to
the
main
audio
amplifier
to
the
RIL
loudspeakers.
When
the
HIGH
PASS
Frequency
switch
is
engaged,
you
can
then
control
the
frequencies
to
those
RIL
speakers
via
the
front
control
knob.
Use
the
HIGH
PASS
control
to
set
the
high-pass
crossover
frequency
from
60
to
160Hz
(according
to
your
loudspeaker
manufacturer's
recommendation)
to
drive
a
satellite
loudspeaker
system
amplifier
from
the
line-level
AUDIO
OUT
jacks.
To
activate
the
filtered
signals,
set
the
ON/OFF
switch
to
ON.
6.
The
MODE
indicator
(on
the
far
left)
shows
which
power
mode
is
active,
as
set
by
the
(Auto)
POWER
switch:
Green
is
ON;
Red
is
STANDBY.
7.
High
Pass
Frequency
Adjustment
On/Off
Switch.
B.
Music/Movie
Mode
Setup
Mode.
SIGNAL CONNECTORS AND POWER CONTROLS
The
SWA-500M's
signal
connectors
and
power
controls
are
located
on
the
unit's
rear
panel,
as
shown
in
Figure 7.
The
controls
function
as
follows:
NOTE:
SEE
APPLICATIONS
STARTING
ON
PAGE
11
FOR
DETAILED
WIRING
CONNECTIONS
FOR
YOUR
APPLICATION.
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9
10
11
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7
12
Figure
7.
Back
Panel
Control
on
the
SWA-500M
1.
12V
POWER
TRIGGER:
The
SWA-500M
can
be
turned
on
or
off
using
the
power
switch
on
the
back
panel
or
it
can
turn
on
or
off
automatically
via
the
12V
Power
Trigger.
For
external
power
triggering,
use
a
mini
(3.5
mm)
plug
to
connect
the
IN
jack
to
a
power
on/off
trigger
signal
from
a
home
theater
sound
processor
or
receiver.
The
back-panel
switch
overrides
this
function
and
must
be
in
the
on
position
for
the
12V
power
trigger
to
work.
The
input
accepts
(AC
or
DC)
control
signals
with
power
ranging
from
3
Volts
to
30
Volts.
Tip
is
positive.
Power
off
is
0
Volts
DC
(or
AC).
You
can
use
the
OUT
jack
to
pass
the
POWER
TRIGGER
signal
to
another
SWA-500M
amplifier
or
other
trigger-
activated
device,
such
as
motorized
speakers
or
rear
effects
speaker's
dipolelbipole
mode.
Voltage
will
be
present
on
the
output
jack
whenever
the
amplifier
is
active.
This
is
indicated
by
the
green
LED
on
the
front
panel.

• • • • •
NOTE: FOR A HOME THEATER RECEIVER NOT EQUIPPED WITH A POWER TRIGGER OUTPUT,
CONSIDER USING A NILES 12-VOLT POWER SUPPLY AS A TRIGGER SIGNAL THAT IS ACTIVATED VIA
A SWITCHED AC OUTLET ON THE RECEIVER. SEE FIGURE 7 FOR CONNECTION DETAILS.
2. (Auto) POWER Switch: Use the ALWAYS ON mode to leave the SWA-500M always on. Use
the MUSIC/VOLTAGE SENSE mode to automatically power on the SWA-500M when an
audio signal or trigger voltage is present. When either signal is absent for 15 minutes, the
SWA-500M will enter the standby mode.
NOTE: THE ALWAYS ON AND MUSICNOLTAGE SENSE SETTINGS ARE ONLY ACTIVE AFTER (MASTER)
POWER IS SET TO ON.
3. MOVIE MODE TRIGGER: For external movie/music mode triggering, use a mini (3.5 mm)
plug to connect the IN jack to a movie trigger signal from a home theater surround
processor or receiver. The 3 to 30 Volts (AC or DC) signal will set the SWA-500M to
movie mode, while a0 Volts (AC or DC) signal will keep it in the music mode. Again, tip is
positive. Use the OUT jack to pass the movie trigger signal to another
SWA-500M amplifier.
NOTE: IF THE SETUP SWITCH (SEE FIGURE 6 ON PAGE 7) ON THE FRONT PANEL IS SET TO MUSIC,
A3 TO 30 VOLTS (AC OR DC) TRIGGER SIGNAL WILL CHANGE OPERATION OVER TO THE MOVIE
MODE. IF THE SETUP SWITCH IS ALREADY SET TO MOVIE, A TRIGGER SIGNAL HAS NO EFFECT,
SINCE THE MODE IS ALREADY SET TO MOVIE.
4. SPEAKER switch: Use this switch to select the number of subwoofers (1 or 2) that
are connected to the amplifier. Be sure that it is set to the correct position before
turning on the amplifier or damage to the amplifier may result. If only one subwoofer is
connected and the switch is set to the "Two sub" position, then no sound will be output
from the amp.
5. BASS BOOST selector: Use this rotary switch during setup to select a frequency to
enhance the sound of the subwoofer(s) connected. It should be set to the "-3d8 down
frequency" of the subwoofer.
6. AUDIO IN jacks: Use these gold-plated line-level RCA input jacks to connect line-level
stereo or LFE audio signals from a home theater receiver or processor. The LFE (Low
Frequency Effects) input is unfiltered by the SWA-500M.
7. AUDIO OUT jacks: Use these gold-plated line-level RCA output jacks to connect line-level
stereo and LFE audio signals to drive another SWA-500M amplifier. The LFE output is
unfiltered, but the UR output signals are routed through the variable (60 to 160 Hz)
HIGH-PASS filter, and the response will be contoured according to filter settings.
NILES AUDIO CORPOR~ION- 1-800-BU~HIFI ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
9

B.
Loudspeaker
IN
Binding
Posts:
As
an
alternative
to
the
AUDIO
IN
jacks,
use
the
loudspeaker-level,
gold-plated,
five-way
binding
posts
to
connect
loudspeaker-level,
stereo
audio
signals
from
a
home
theater
receiver
or
whole-home
audio
system.
Use
this
connection
only
if
your
home
theater
receiver
does
not
have
a
subwoofer,
LFE
or
pre-amp
output.
NOTE:
DO
NOT
USE
THESE
CONNECTIONS
WHEN
USING
THE
LINE-LEVEL
INPUTS.
9.
Loudspeaker
OUT
Binding
Posts:
As
an
alternative
to
the
AUDIO
OUT
jacks,
use
the
loudspeaker-level,
gold-plated,
five-way
binding
posts
to
connect
loudspeaker-level,
stereo
audio
signals
to
drive
your
front
UR
satellite
loudspeakers.
These
signals
are
routed
through
a
fixed,
100Hz
(6
dB
per
octave)
high-pass
filter
and
the
response
will
be
contoured
accordingly.
NOTE:
THERE
WILL
ONLY
BE
A
SIGNAL
ON
THESE
CONNECTIONS
IF
THE
LOUDSPEAKER
IN
BINDING
POSTS
ARE
USED.
10.
Subwoofer
A
and
B
Binding
Posts:
Use
these
to
connect
one
or
two
subwoofers.
Be
sure
that
the
Speaker
Switch
(see
#4)
is
set
correctly
before
turning
on
the
amplifier
or
damage
could
result.
11.
Detachable
IEC
Power
Cord.
If
needed,
replace
the
fuse
with
same
type
as
follows.
12.
Main
power
switch.
10--------------------------------

• • • • •
APPLICATIONS
The
SWA-500M
subwoofer
amplifier
is
very
flexible
and
can
be
configured
for
use
in
various
applications
with
associated
external
audio
components,
as
shown
in
Figures 8
through
11.
For
other
SWA-500M
applications,
consult
your
local
Niles
dealer
for
help
in
configuring
your
home
theater
system.
SWA-SOOM
IN
A TYPICAL
HOME
THEATER
INSTALLATION
Set
LOW
PASS
to
closely
match
HIGH
PASS
FREQUENCY
control
NOTE
:
Control
does
not
function
when
using
LFE
input
Adjust
PHASE
to
integrate
subwoofer
sound
with
system
Set
switch
to
ON
and
adjust
FREQUENCY
to
match
low
frequency
cutoff
of
your
satellite
loudspeakers
Alternate
configuration:
Set
switch
to
OFF
to
send
full
range
audio
to
UR
AUDIO
OUT
j
acks
Posit
i
on
SET
UP
switch
to
the
mode
you
wish
to
adjust
MUSIC
OR
MOVIE
and
adjust
level
controls
per
instructions
'>NM
I:X
JM
SWA-500M
Back
-'
-
-
r r r r • ,. '
,..
,.
'
~
'
- -
.
Home
Theater
Receiver
LFE
I
r·=
::::i
Optional
1st
Subwoofer
2nd
Subwoofer
(Optional)
Figure
8.
Line-level
connection
NILES
AUDIO
CORPORATION
- 1-
800
-
BUY
-
HIFI
--------------11

SWA-SOOM
AND
LINE-LEVEL
CONNECTION
Set
LOW
PASS
to
closely
match
HIGH
PASS
FREQUENCY
control
NOTE
:
Control
does
not
function
when
using
LFE
input
SWA-500M
Back
Adjust
PHASE
to
integrate
subwoofer
sound
with
system
Home
Theater
Receiver
1st
Subwoofer
Set
switch
to
ON
and
adjust
FREQUENCY
to
match
low
frequency
cutoff
of
your
satellite
loudspeakers
Alternate
configuration:
Set
switch
to
OFF
to
send
full
range
audio
to
UR
AUDIO
OUT
jacks
Left
&
Right
Line-Level
Output
R
Position
SET
UP
switch
to
the
mode
you
wish
to
adjust
MUSIC
OR
MOVIE
and
adjust
level
controls
per
instructions
I' I
Optional
f/1N
I
LES
Nia
.....
Corpornion
•
__
.,.
2nd
Subwoofer
(Optional)
Figure
9.
Line-level
connection
12------------------------------------------

• • • • •
SWA-SOOM
AND
LOUDSPEAKER
LEVEL
CONNECTION
TO
SATELLITE
LOUDSPEAKERS
Adjust
PHASE
to
Controls
not
used
Position
SET
UP
switch
to
the
mode
you
wish
to
adjust
MUSIC
OR
MOVIE
and
adjust
level
controls
integrate
subwoofer
sound
with
system
Home
Theater
Receiver
Left
&
Right
loudspeaker
Outputs
L R
per
instructions
I
! '
Optional
ti/JNI
L
ES
SWA
-
500M
Back
Left
Loudspeaker
Right
Loudspeaker
1st
Subwoofer
Figure 1
0.
Connecting
satellite
loudspeakers
2nd
Subwoofer
(Optional)
NILES
AUDIO
CORPORATION
-1
-
800
-
BUY-HIFI
--------------13

SWA-500M AND SATELLITE LOUDSPEAKER SYSTEM
WITH EXTERNAL POWER AND MODE TRIGGERS
-II Optio~al ~
Home Trigger Output
Theater
Receiver
SWA-500M Back
0
Second SWA-500M (Optional)
Figure 11 • Trigger connection
14---------------------------------

• • • • •
CONNECTING
THE
SWA-SOOM
Connect
the
SWA-500M
according
to
your
application
(see
APPLICATIONS
on
page
11).
Use
high-
quality
RCA
cables
for
all
line-level
connections
(see
CONTROLS
AND
CONNECTORS
on
page
7).
For
applications
with
loudspeaker-level
connections,
perform
the
following
steps:
1. At
each
SWA-500M
loudspeaker-level
connection,
separate
the
loudspeaker
wire
so
that
at
least
2"
of
each
conductor
are
free.
Strip
away
1/4
inch
of
insulation
from
each
loudspeaker
wire.
Using
correct
polarity,
connect
the
appropriate
conductor
to
each
five-way
binding
post.
NOTE:
OBSERVE
CORRECT
POLARITY:
POSITIVE(+)
GOES
TO
THE
RED
POST
AND
NEGATIVE(-)
TO
THE
BLACK
POST.
IF
YOU
ARE
UNSURE
OF
WIRE
POLARITY,
SEE
THE
SECTION,
CHECKING
PHASE
ON
SATELLITE
LOUDSPEAKERS,
ON
PAGE
17.
2.
Connect
the
other
end
of
the
loudspeaker
wires
to
the
home
theater
receiver/amplifier
and
satellite
loudspeakers
in
the
same
way.
3.
Turn
on
the
home
theater
receiver
and
calibrate
all
loudspeakers
in
the
system
according
to
the
receiver
(or
surround
processor)
manufacturer's
instructions.
CALIBRATING
THE
SWA-SOOM
After
installing
the
amplifier
and
making
all
the
connections,
set
up
the
SWA-500M
by
performing
the
following
steps.
Performing
these
steps
will
maximize
the
SWA-500M's
performance
(see
CONTROLS
AND
CONNECTORS
page
7
for
information
on
control
operation).
1.
On
the
rear
panel,
set
the
(Master)
POWER
switch
to
ON.
On
the
front
panel,
set
the
POWER
switch
to
ON.
Depending
on
your
application,
set
the
rear-mounted
(Auto)
POWER
switch
to
ALWAYS
ON
or
MUSIC/VOLTAGE
SENSE.
2.
On
the
front
panel,
set
the
following
controls
(and
switches)
to
their
initial
positions:
•
HIGH
PASS
FREQUENCY
control=
120Hz
(or
value
recommended
by
satellite
loudspeaker
manufacturer)
•
PHASE
control
=
0°
•
HIGH
PASS
FREQUENCY
control=
140Hz
(or
value
recommended
by
satellite
loudspeaker
manufacturer)
•
HIGH
PASS
ON/OFF
switch
=
ON
•
LEVEL
SETUP
switch
=
MUSIC
•
MUSIC
LEVEL
control
= 5
•
MOVIE
LEVEL
control
= 5
NILES
AUDIO
CORPORATION
-1-800-BUY-HIFI
--------------15

3.
While
playing
a
favorite
music
track,
adjust
your
system's
volume
control
to
a
comfortable
level
and
listen
to
the
bass
level
at
your
favorite
listening
position
(e.g.,
couch).
Next,
move
the
LEVEL
SETUP
switch
to
MOVIE
and
play
a
favorite
movie
chapter,
preferably
a
movie
with
a
good
amount
of
low
frequency
information.
Listen
to
the
bass
level,
and
if
desired,
adjust
the
MOVIE
LEVEL
control
to
change
the
movie
bass
level
to
taste.
4.
Move
the
LEVEL
SETUP
switch
back
to
MUSIC
and
play
the
music
track
again.
If
desired,
adjust
the
MUSIC
LEVEL
control
to
taste.
5.
Continue
listening
to
your
favorite
music
and
movie
sources
using
the
appropriate
setting
for
LEVEL
SETUP.
If
you
want
a
more
solid-sounding
bass
(with
less
overtones),
try
moving
the
LOW
PASS
FREQUENCY
control
toward
the
lower
frequencies.
Experiment
with
different
frequency
settings
until
you
find
one
that
sounds
best.
If
needed,
readjust
the
MOVIE
LEVEL
and
MUSIC
LEVEL
controls
(see
steps
3
and
4
above).
6.
Continue
listening
to
your
favorite
music
and
movie
sources
using
the
appropriate
setting
for
LEVEL
SETUP.
Try
experimenting
with
the
PHASE
control
until
you
find
its
optimum
setting.
Depending
on
the
subwoofer's
placement,
the
bass
should
sound
more
pronounced
when
the
phase
has
been
optimized.
7.
Once
allof
these
steps
have
been
followed,
you
may
use
the
rear-mounted
control
for
BASS
BOOST
if
you
have
not
been
able
to
achieve
satisfactory
bass
performance.
Set
this
switch
the
highest
setting
first
(50Hz)
and
adjust
the
levels
for
Music
and
Movie
modes.
If
further
adjustment
is
needed,
select
the
next
lowest
frequency
for
BASS
BOOST
and
repeat
adjustments
until
satisfied.
16---------------------------------

• • • • •
CHECKING
PHASE
ON
THE
SATELLITE
LOUDSPEAKERS
Loudspeaker
wire
has
two
conductors.
On
applications
with
satellite
loudspeakers,
one
conductor
is
attached
to
a
component's
negative
(-)
terminal,
while
the
other
is
attached
to
a
component's
positive(+)
terminal.
Usually,
the
wire
is
marked
for
your
convenience,
but
the
marking
can
be
done
in
the
following
different
ways:
•
Stripe
on
one
wire
•
Ribbed
area
you
can
feel
on
one
conductor
•
Different
colors
of
metal
wire
on
each
conductor
•
Fabric
strand
or
string
wound
into
one
of
the
conductors
Of
course,
there
are
some
wires
that
appear
completely
identical.
So
be
careful,
or
you
might
make
a
connection
mistake.
If
you
do,
one
satellite
loudspeaker
will
be
playing
"out-of-phase"
with
the
other
loudspeaker.
A
pair
of
out-of-phase
loudspeakers
works
against
each
other,
and
the
sound
of
the
two
playing
together
will
be
lacking
in
bass
and
sound
"phasey."
If
you
suspect
the
sound
is
not
right,
and
you
cannot
see
any
markings
on
the
wire,
try
this
simple
test:
1.
Stand
halfway
between
the
satellite
loudspeakers
2.
Play
some
music
with
the
amplifier
or
receiver
set
to
Mono
3.
Listen
to
the
richness
of
the
bass
and
the
loudness
of
the
sound
4.
Turn
off
the
amplifier
and
reverse
the
connections
on
one
(Left
or
Right)
of
the
SWA-500M
Loudspeaker
OUT
binding
post
pairs
5.
Repeat
the
listening
test
with
the
same
volume
control
setting.
When
the
sound
has
a
richer
bass
and
is
slightly
louder,
the
satellite
loudspeakers
are
working
together
or
''in-phase"
NILES
AUDIO
CORPOR~ION-
1-800-BU~HIFI
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1
~

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
If you experience a problem operating the SWA-500M, consult this guide first. The most common
problems relate to hook up or improper control settings. Try to isolate the problem and check the
control settings to determine the fault and make the necessary changes. If the problem persists,
or you have additional questions, contact your local Niles dealer or Niles Technical Support at
1-800-289-4434, 305-238-4373 or [email protected].
PROBLEM: No sound
Solutions
Short circuit or loose wire at the speaker or amplifier terminals. Check that the connections are
secure and that there are no loose strands of wire crossing from the positive to the negative
terminals at the back of the amplifier and/or the speaker.
Short circuit or a break in the speaker wire. Disconnect the speaker wire at both ends, separate the
2 conductors at both ends and test with a meter for a short circuit. If there is no short, connect the
two conductors at one end and test with a meter for continuity.
Speaker is not working. Connect the speaker to a channel that plays another speaker.
Audio cable to input is bad. Connect another cable that is known to be good.
Audio cable to the main inputs is bad. Connect another cable that is known to be good.
PROBLEM: Hum or buzz sound from the loudspeakers
Solutions
Hum or buzz may be caused by a ground loop between two of the other components in the system.
To test for another ground loop, try reversing the AC plugs of each of the components in the system.
PROBLEM: Amplifier will not turn on
Solutions
Check for faulty cables, faulty source material, an ungrounded phono system or a
defective component.
AC power cord must be plugged into a working outlet.
Master power switch must be on.
PROBLEM: Bass sound is weak and the stereo image is ''phasey" or "blurry"
Solutions
The loudspeakers are wired out of phase. Reverse the connections at the back of one speaker.
18-----------------------------------------