QSC HPR151W User manual

1675 MacArthur Blvd., Costa Mesa, CA, 92626 USA
Main Number [phone] or toll free(USA only) [phone]
Customer Service(714) 957-7150 or toll free (USA only) [phone]
HPR Series Powered Loudspeaker Products
User Manual
HPR153F 15-inch three-way
HPR152F 15-inch two-way
HPR151W 15-inch subwoofer
HPR181W 18-inch subwoofer
*TD-000212-01*
TD-000212-01 rev.D

2
Important Safety Precautions & Explanation of Symbols
Install in accordance with QSC Audio Product's instructions and under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer.
WARNING!
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presenceofuninsulated “dangerous” voltagewithintheproduct'senclosurethatmaybeofsufficientmagnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to humans.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in this manual.
1- Read these instructions.
2- Keep these instructions.
3- Heed all warnings.
4- Follow all instructions.
5- WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture. Donot use this apparatus near water.
6- Clean only with a dry cloth.
7- Allow a minimum of 6” (152mm) clearance at cabinet back for convection cooling. Keep anything that might restrict airflow away from the rear of
theenclosure(i.edraperies, fabric,etc...).Donotblockanyventilationopenings.Thisproduct containsaninternalpower amplifierthatproducesheat.
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 grounding-type plug. The grounding plug has two blades and a grounding prong. The third prong is provided
foryoursafety.Iftheprovidedplugdoesnotfityouroutlet,consultanelectricianforthereplacementoftheobsoleteoutlet.Donotcutoffthegrounding
prong or use an adapter that breaks the grounding circuit.This apparatus must be properly grounded for your safety.
10- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the ap-
paratus.
11-This productisnotequippedwithanall-polemainsswitch. Tofullydisconnectfrom theACmains,the AC plug must beremovedfromthe AC outlet
or the appliance coupler (IEC block) must be removed from the amplifier module. Ensure either the AC line cord plug or the appliance coupler are ac-
cessible in case of emergency disconnect requirement.
12- Use only attachments/accessories specified by QSC Audio Products, Inc.
13- Use only with hardware, brackets, stands, and components sold with the apparatus or by QSC Audio Products, Inc.
14- Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
15- 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 objectshave fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain ormoisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.
16-Before placingorinstallingany speakerproduct,inspect all hardware,suspension,cabinets,transducers,brackets andassociatedequipment for
damage.Anymissing,corroded,deformed, ornon-loadrated componentcould significantlyreducethestrength oftheinstallation,placementorarray.
Anysuchconditionseverelyreduces thesafetyof the installationandshouldbe immediatelycorrected.Useonly hardware whichisratedforthe load-
ing conditions of the installation and any possible short-term, unexpected overloading. Never exceed the rating of the hardware or equipment.
17- HPR loudspeakers provide no provision for flying or suspension. QSC strongly discourages the use of HPR-series loudspeakers in suspended or
flying applications. Consult a licensed, Professional Engineer regarding physical equipment installation. All local, state and national regulations re-
garding the safetyand operation ofequipment are understood and adhered to.
18-HPR152F WARNING! Do not use a loudspeaker support pole longer than 26” (660mm) when supported by QSC’s HPR151W or HPR181W subwoofer.
19- Do not use any HPR product orientedhorizontally. Horizontal orientation can cause overheatingand thermal limiting. The cooling fins on the am-
plifier module must be vertically oriented in order to efficiently dissipate the heat generated by the amplifier.
20- The appliance shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

3
Introduction
Congratulations and thank you for your purchase of this professional, powered loudspeaker product. To get the most from your invest-
ment, we recommend you review all the information provided in this User Manual.
The HPR self-powered loudspeakers provide excellent sound quality, durable construction and clean, efficient, on-board amplification.
Amplifiers are matched to the drivers with active equalization and precise crossover control. Active power limiting and thermal man-
agement extends the life of drivers and the amplifier. The HPR series solves many application challenges with its great sound, built-in
protection systems and self-contained portability. HPR is the perfect solution for public performances,corporate events and private par-
ties demanding flexible and excellent sounding system solutions.
All models are self-powered using efficient amplifiers. AC line connection is fast and easy; an IEC-style quick-disconnect ensures reli-
able AC mains connection while providing an easy-to-remove power cord for cabinet mobility. Audio enters the self-powered loud-
speaker via a female XLR connector with an additional parallel-wired male XLR output for daisy-chaining. No outboard signal
processing is required as all models feature on-board filtering. The two-way and three-way full-range loudspeakersfeature a switch-
able100Hzlow-cutfilter for usewhensubwoofersarepart ofthesystem.Subwoofermodelshavetwo full-rangeinputconnectors(left
and right) and two sets of output connectors; one pair featuring a 100 Hz low-cut filter and one pair passing full-range signal.
Rear-panel LEDs alert the user to AC power status, input signal presence, and instances of clipping. Additionally, a blue front-panel
“power on” LED provides valuable visual power confirmation. It can also be disabled for applications where light toward the audience
may interfere with stage aesthetics. All models feature a 21-step detent Gain control allowing precise control and repeatable setup.
The enclosures are made of high-quality plywood and are texture-coated in black. Features vary by model, so please refer to sales bro-
chures or the specifications section of thismanual for specific model information.
HPR152F Features HPR153F Features
1- Pole Cup (no pole cup on HPR153F) 4- Power Amplifier
2- Handles (2 each) 5- Slip-resistant Feet (4 each)
3- Grill

4
HPR151W Features HPR181W Features
1- Pole Cup 4- Power Amplifier
2- Handles (2 each) 5- Slip-resistant Feet (4 each)
3- Grill 6- Casters (HPR181W only)
Full Range Amplifier Detail Subwoofer Amplifier Detail
1- Input and Output Connector(s) 6- Power Switch
2- Gain Control 7- Circuit Breaker
3- Power, Signal, and Clip LED Indicators 8- Serial Number Plate
4- Front LED Switch 9- IEC Power Inlet
5- 100 Hz Low-Cut Filter Switch (Full Range Only) 10- Phase switch (Subwoofer Only)

5
Installation
HPR152F WARNING! Do not use a loudspeaker support pole longer than 26” (660mm) when supported by the
HPR151W or HPR181W subwoofer.
Do not rig, fly or suspend this loudspeaker product!
Before placing or installing any speaker product, inspect all hardware, suspension, cabinets, transducers,
brackets and associated equipment for damage. Any missing, corroded, deformed, or non-factory component
could significantly reduce the strength of the installation, placement or array. Any such condition severely
reduces the safety of the installation and should be immediately corrected.
Consult a licensed, Professional Engineer regarding physical equipment installation. Ensure that all local, state
and national regulations regardingthe safety and operation of loudspeakers and related equipment are under-
stood and adhered to.
HPR152F: The HPR152F was designed to sit on the floor, stage, subwoofer enclosure, or be pole mounted on a
35mm diameter loudspeaker support pole. The pole can be part of a stand-alone loudspeaker stand or be inserted
intothepolecupof the HPR151WorHPR181W. Pole lengthmustbe no longerthan26” (660mm) whensupportedby
the HPR151W or HPR181W subwoofer.
HPR153F: The HPR153F was designed to sit on the floor, stage, or on top of the subwoofer enclosure. Do not
attempt to pole mount this loudspeaker! There is no pole cup provided.
HPR151W: The HPR151W was designed to sit on the floor or on the stage. A pole cup on the topof the enclosure
accepts 35mm loudspeaker mountingpoles. Rubber feet on theenclosure’s bottom help to minimizeenclosure move-
ment during operation. Do not pole mount or stack more than one enclosure on top of the HPR151W enclosure.
HPR181W: The HPR181W was designed to sit on the floor or on the stage. A pole cup on the topof the enclosure
accepts 35mm loudspeaker mountingpoles. Rubber feet on theenclosure’s bottom help to minimizeenclosure move-
ment during operation. Do not pole mount or stack more than one enclosure on top of the HPR181W enclosure. As
the casters will wear during normal use, it may be required to insert small foam pieces between the wheels and
frames to minimize rattling at high output levels.
Cooling
This is a self-powered loudspeaker containing an internal power amplifier that produces heat. Allow a minimum of 6”
(152mm) clearance at cabinet back for convection cooling. Keep anything that might restrict airflow away from the rear
of the enclosure (i.e draperies, fabric, etc...).
Do not use any HPR product oriented horizontally. Horizontal orientation can cause overheating and thermal lim-
iting.The coolingfins onthe amplifiermodule mustbe verticallyoriented inorder toefficiently dissipatethe heat
generated by the amplifier.
Do not install enclosures with their rearpanels exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight will heat the amplifier
module and reduce its ability to produce full output. Install sunshades if the application merits.
Maximum ambient temperature for full performance to specification is 40° C. (104° F.).
Do not install enclosures where exposed to rain or other water sources. The enclosure is not weatherproof. Out-
door installations must provide protection from the elements.

6
AC Mains
Connect AC power to the IEC socket on the back of the amplifier by locating the IEC connector-end of
theACpower cordand inserting itfullyintotheIECinleton the poweramplifiermodule. NOTE: Turnoff
the AC power switch before connecting AC power.
The correct AC line voltage is shown on the serial number label, on the rear panel. Connecting
to the wrong line voltage may damage the amplifier or increase the risk of electric shock.
AC Mains Disconnection
Turn the AC power switch to the off position. To remove the AC mains cord, grasp the IEC connector’s
plastic body and pull, removing the connector form the socket.
Power Switch
Push in on the top of the rocker switch to applyAC mains power to the powered loudspeaker. Push in
on the bottom of the rocker switch to turn the powered loudspeaker off.
When turned on, the blue Power indicatorLED and the red LIMIT (limiter) indicator LED will illuminate;
after a few seconds the red LIMIT indicator will extinguish.
LED Power Indicator
TheblueLED Power indicatorwill illuminate when the ACPowerswitch isinthe “ON”position, the AC
mains power cord is connected properly, and the AC mains are functioning properly. The LED Power
indicatorwillextinguishwhentheACPowerswitchisinthe“off”positionorACmainspowerhasbeen
removed from the loudspeaker.
If the Power indicator does not illuminate when the Power switch is placed in the “on” position, verify
the AC mains line cord is properly attached to the loudspeaker and plugged into the AC outlet. Verify
the outlet is functioning properly.
If the AC mains cordset is serviceable and the AC mains outlet is operating properly, but the
loudspeaker fails to operate, the loudspeaker may require servicing. Contact QSC’s Technical
Services department.
System Power Sequencing
Proper power turn on sequence can help to prevent unexpected sounds from your system (pops, clicks,
thumps). These unintended sounds can damage drivers and cause audience members to question the
professionalism of the sound team. Turn on and off the system in the proper order to avoid unexpected
sounds.
Power On Sequence: Turnon allsourcedevices (CD players,mixers), turn onsubwoofer, then turn on
the “top-boxes” (HPR152F and HPR153F).
Power Off Sequence: Turn off the top-boxes, turn off the subwoofer,then turn off the source devices.
Input Connections
Full-range models have one female XLR line-level input marked FULL RANGE LINE IN.
Subwoofers have a second set of connectors, one for the left channel’saudio and one for the right
channel’s audio.
We recommendbalanced connections be used. Balanced connections will reduce AC hum and interfer-
ence, especially with long cable runs. Unbalanced connections may be suitable for short cables. The
input impedance is 22k ohm for balanced connections or 11k ohm for unbalanced connections. The sig-
nal's source impedance should be less than 600 ohms.
AC power switch
Power “on” indicator LED

7
1= shield (ground)
3= jumper to pin 1
2= plus (+)
Input Connections (continued)
HPR152F and HPR153F: Insert the male XLR input into the jack marked FULL RANGE
LINE IN. Ensure the connector is fully seated.
HPR151W and HPR181W: Inserttheleftchannel’s XLRinputintotheleftchannel’s (L)
FULL RANGE LINE IN connector. Insert the right channel’s XLR connector into the
right channel’s (R) FULL RANGE LINE IN connector. If a single input signal is used,
plug into either the L (left) or R (right) channel’s input. The subwoofer’s gain should
be set within the “NORMAL” range when used with one input signal and one full-
range loudspeaker.
If two input signals are used, plug the left channel’s signal into the connector
marked FULL RANGE LINE IN L (the top input connector) and the right channel’s sig-
nal into the connector marked FULL RANGE LINE IN R (the bottom input connector).
When two input signals are applied, the subwoofer’s gain is automatically
increased 6dB as the subwoofer will likely be used with two full-range loudspeak-
ers.
Balanced inputs: Connect to the plug as shown.
Unbalanced inputs: Connect tothe plugas shown.Pin 3 and pin 1 must be connected
with a jumper as shown.
Output Connections
Full-range models have one XLR output connector marked FULL RANGE LINE OUT. The
output connector is wired in parallel with the input enabling connection of multiple
enclosures in a “daisy-chain” fashion.
Subwoofer models have two sets of output connectors, one set for the left and one set
fortheright audiochannel. Eachchannel hasa FULL RANGE LINE OUTconnector and a
100 Hz LOW-CUT OUT connector (active 100 Hertz filter applied, non-defeatable).
We recommend balanced connections be used. Balanced connections will reduce AC
hum and interference, especially with long cable runs. Unbalanced connections may be
suitable for short cables.
HPR152F and HPR153F: Insert the XLR connector into the jack marked FULL RANGE
LINE OUT. Connect the other end of the cable to the next down-stream audio
device’s input connector. The output connector is wired in parallel with the input
connector and is not effected by the 100 Hertz low-cut filter switch setting.
Full-range loudspeaker’s Input (IN)
and Output (OUT) Connectors
1= shield (ground)
3= minus (-)
2= plus (+)
Subwoofer loudspeaker’s Input (IN)
and Output (OUT) Connectors
IMPORTANT! If using full
range loudspeakers from
another manufacturer, we rec-
ommend they be connected to
the QSC subwoofer’s 100 Hz
LOW-CUT OUT. This will
ensure proper phasing of the
full range loudspeaker with
respect to the subwoofer.

8
Output Connections (continued)
HPR151W and HPR181W
FULL RANGE LINE OUT: UsetheoutputsmarkedFULLRANGELINEOUT(Leftand/orRight)whenconnectingto
down-stream powered loudspeakers which accept full-range audio or have their own filtering.
100 Hz LOW-CUT: Use the outputs marked 100 Hz LOW-CUT OUT (L and/or R) when connecting to downstream
powered loudspeakers that have no low-frequency filtering but the low-frequency roll-off is desired. Do not use
the 100 Hz LOW-CUT OUT connectors for connecting to other subwoofers. Instead, use the FULL RANGE LINE
OUT. Be sure to turn off any loudspeaker connected to the 100 Hz LOW-CUT OUT before turning off the sub-
woofer’s AC power. This prevents any undesired turn-off transients (thumps, bumps) in the connected devices.
If using the subwoofer’s 100 Hz LOW-CUT OUT connector to provide signal to the top-boxes (HPR152F and
HPR153F), be sure the top-box’s low-cut filters are OFF. Do not apply a second filter as the sonic perfor-
mance of the system will be notably degraded.
Gain Control
The Gain control is located on the rear panel and is easily adjusted without tools.The Gain control is marked in
dBandisadjustablefrom-20dBto+10dB.Thereare21detentsforrepeatableadjustments.Turnthegaincontrol
clockwise to increase gain and counter clockwise to decrease gain.
Initially,setallgaincontrolsto0dB.Whenusedasasystem,thesubwoofersandfull-rangemodelsaredesigned
to provide the correct frequency (tonal) balance when both the subwoofers and the full-range loudspeakers are
set to approximately 0dB. Final system adjustments should be made within the range of adjustment marked
“NORMAL”.
The range below -4 dB should notbe used for normal program levels,as the input headroom could be exceeded,
but can be used for testing at reduced levels. If the input signal is extraordinarily strong,it may be required to
adjustthe gain control in the range below -4dB. A better solution might be to reduce theinput signal strength to
the powered loudspeaker(s).
The range above +4dB should not be used for normal program levels, as the loudspeaker may be more easily
driven into clipping (distortion due to overdriving the amplifier). If the input signal is extremely weak, it may be
requiredto adjust the gain control(s) into therange above +4dB. A better solution would be to increase the input
signal strength to the powered loudspeaker system.
At the -20dB setting, the signal is not completely cut off. To fully cut off the signal, fully reduce the input signal
to the powered loudspeaker(s).
Subwoofer Gain Notes
Scenario: One input signal only to the subwoofer, one full-range loudspeaker for each subwoofer-
The HPR loudspeakers are designed to be used as a system, typically using one subwoofer for each full-range
loudspeaker. If the subwoofer and the full-range loudspeaker have their Gain controls set to 0dB, the tonal bal-
ance will be correct (or very close to correct).
Scenario: Two input (L+R) signals to the subwoofer, and two full-range loudspeakers per subwoofer-
When two inputs (L+R) are applied to the subwoofer, an additional gain of 6dB is automatically applied to the
subwoofer. The additional gainis added to thesubwoofer to keepthe tonal balance correctfor use with two full-
range loudspeakers.
Gain control recommended
adjustment range

9
100 Hertz Low-Cut Filter Switch (HPR152F and HPR153F)
Below the LED indicators is a small recessed slide-switch that enables or disables a 100 Hertz low-cut filter.
Filter OFF (Full Range)
Turn the filter OFF when using without subwoofers or dedicated low-frequency enclosures.
Filter ON (100 Hz Low-Cut)
Turn the filter ON when using with optional subwoofers or low-frequency systems. This results inless distor-
tion at low frequencies and provides improved clarityin the low-mid frequencies.
Front LED Switch
The Front LED Switch, located on the rear panel, is used to enable or disable the LED located on the front of
the enclosure near the bottom of the grill. Slide the switch to the ON position to enable the front LED and
slide it to the OFF position to disable the front LED.
Most applications merit the use of the Front LED so power status can be visually confirmed, easily and
quickly. For applications where the LED may distract audience members, it is easily disabled by sliding the
FRONT LED switch to the OFF position.
Phase Switch (HPR151W and HPR181W)
When all loudspeakers in system are properly phased, a positive polarity drive signal results in a forward
excursion of all loudspeaker cones. This, in turn, sets up a positive reinforcement of the soundwavefront
(each loudspeaker reinforces the actions of the other loudspeakers). This effect is most pronounced at low
(bass) frequencies.
If a loudspeaker is not properly phased, its cone moves inward while the properly phased loudspeaker’s
cones move outward. The inward movement will effectively cancel the bass response of a similarly-sized
driver in the system, resulting in a reduction in the bass content.
It is critically important to maintain correct phasing in a loudspeaker system in order to realize maximum per-
formance.Phasingcanbealteredbymiswiredinputcables,interconnectingcables,mixerphaseswitchesset
incorrectly, just to name a few likely culprits.
To make matters a bit more complicated, phasing is also influenced by the position of loudspeakers with
respect to one another and by their position in a given room. It is possible to have all loudspeakers phased
properly (electrically) and yet achieve better bass response by having the subwoofer reverse phased. It is
even possible to achieve improved bass response from the system with multiple subwoofers phased differ-
ently. Be aware that perceived bass response also will change with the listener’s position, so move around
the room (venue) when testing your setup.
Because phasing problems can so drastically effect the bass output of a system, the subwoofers are
equipped with a switch marked PHASE. When set to NORMAL, the phase is such that a positive going input
will cause the cone to move outward. When set to REVERSE, the input signal has its polarity reversed and a
positive going input will cause the loudspeaker’s cone to move inward.
How to Use the Phase Switch
When using QSC subwoofers and QSC full range loudspeakers, NORMAL phase will result in the best bass
response IF the full range loudspeakers are sitting on or very close to the subwoofers. If the subwoofers are
some distance away from the full range loudspeakers, phase change may be of benefit.
Start with all subwoofer PHASE switches in the NORMAL position. This applies to systems with one sub-
woofer as well. Then, with your system at or near expected operating levels, change the phasing of each
subwoofer INDIVIDUALLY. Then walk around the venue and assess the overall bass response. Select the
phasing that results in the best overall system bass response.
Phase switch normal and
reverse positions
IMPORTANT!If using full
range loudspeakers from
another manufacturer,
we recommend they be
connected to the QSC
subwoofer’s 100 Hz LOW-
CUT OUT. This will
ensure proper phasing of
the full range loud-
speaker with respect to
the subwoofer.
100 Hertz low-cut filter
switch off and on positions
Front LED switch off
and on positions

10
SIGNAL Indicator LED
The green SIGNAL indicator alerts the user to the presence of an input signal to the HPR loud-
speaker.
Normal Indication
The green SIGNAL indicator illuminateswhen the input signal exceeds -25 dB.
If No Indication
Check Gain settings and increase gain if necessary. Check input connections and audio source
for signal. If the red LIMIT LED illuminates, refer to the LIMIT indicator section, below.
Abnormal Indication
If the green SIGNAL LED illuminates with no signal input, there may be system oscillations or
someother malfunction. Disconnect the inputor fullyreduce the gain.Ifthe green SIGNALLED
remains on, the amp may need servicing.
LIMIT Indicator LED
The red LIMIT indicator alerts the user to several abnormal conditions within the HPR loud-
speaker:
Continuous Bright Red Light
• Indicates protective mute mode.
• The speaker normally passes through muting for several seconds after applying power, after
which the light should go out, and sound should be heard.
• If the speaker enters Mute during operation, it has either overheated or developed afault.
• Overheating should correct itself within 1-2 minutes, after which sound should resume. See
below for a full explanation of thermal protection.
• Short periods of muting indicate a component fault. In this case AC power should be removed
and the speaker serviced.
Momentary Bright Red Flashes
• During operation, bright flashing indicates clipping (overdrive distortion).
• This is normally due to excessive volume, and will likely be accompanied by audible distortion.
• Ifthespeakermutesrepeatedlyduringpeaks,theremaybeacomponentfault.ACpowershould
be removed and the speaker serviced.
Continuous Half-bright Light
• Indicates that the internal limiter is reducing gain, due to prolonged clipping and/or excessive
temperature.
• After several seconds of severe clipping, the limiter will reduce power to protect the speaker
and improve the sound. This results in a steady, half-bright red indication. Any further clipping
will still result in bright flashes on top of the steady half-bright indication. When the program
level is reduced, the limiter will clear after several seconds, and the red indicator will go out.
• If the power module overheats, the first response is to trigger limiting, to reduce volume and
limitfurthertemperaturerise.Thisresultsinasteadyhalf-brightilluminationthatdoesnotclear
evenafterreducingprogramlevel.Itmay takeseveralminutesfortemperatureto drop and clear
the limiter. During this time, the exposed heat sink will feel uncomfortably hot to the touch. If
overheatingcontinues,theamplifierwillultimatelymute,resultinginafull-brightredindication.
When muting clears, the amplifier will resume operation, with thermal limiting still active until
it further cools off.
• Overheatingisusuallycausedbyexcessiveambienttemperature,sincetheinternaltemperature
rise of the power module is relatively low. Protect the speaker from excessive temperatures,
such as being placed over a heater vent, or allowing direct sunlight to impinge upon the heat
sink surface.