Rane Zonetech User manual

UserGuide
English(3–25)
Appendix
English(26–27)

2

3
UserGuide(English)
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Zonetech. At Rane, performance and reliability mean as much to
us as they do to you. That’s why we design our equipment with only one thing in mind—to
make your performance the best it canbe.
BoxContents
Zonetech
(1) 6-pin 3.8 mm Euroblock inputs (green, for audio inputs)
(3) 6-pin 3.8 mm Euroblock outputs (orange, for zone outputs)
(1) 3-pin 3.8 mm Euroblock outputs (orange, for zone outputs)
(1) 3-pin 3.8 mm Euroblock inputs (black, for logic input)
Bluetooth® Antenna
Power Cable
Quickstart Guide
Safety & Warranty Manual
Support
For the latest information about this product (documentation, technical specifications, system
requirements, compatibility information, etc.) and product registration, visit rane.com.
For additional product support, visit rane.com/support.

4
Device
Paging
Remote
(e.g.,Rane
RAD16z)
Stereo Audio Inputs
(Receiver, DVD
Player,etc.)
MASTER
SOURCE
ZONE2 ZONE 2 ZONE 3 ZONE 3 INFO OPTION QUICK SELECT
ON/OFF SOURCE ON/OFF SOURCE STATUS
DIMMER 1CBL/SAT 2Blu-ra
y
3GAME 4NETW ORK
Power
Setup
Items not listed under Introduction >Box Contents are sold separately.
1. Use the included Euroblock connectors or stereo RCA cables to connect the inputs on
the rear panel to your audiosources.
2. Use the included Euroblock connectors to connect the outputs on the rear panel to your
zone amplifiers or poweredloudspeakers.
3. Use shielded Cat5e or Cat6 RJ45 cables to connect optional remotes or paging devices
(e.g., Rane DR6, Rane DRZH, Rane RAD devices) to the Master Remote Port, Zone
Remotes Ports, and Pager Port on the rearpanel.
4. Attach the Bluetooth antenna (included) to the Bluetooth antenna connector on the rear
panel. For best results, place Zonetech and the Bluetooth antenna so that it is not
obstructed by walls, furniture,etc.
5. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the Computer Ethernet Port on the rear panel to a
computer, router, or similar accesspoint.
6. Power on all of your audio sources (media players, stereos, microphones, amplifiers, etc.).
7. Use a standard IEC cable (included) to connect the power input to a poweroutlet.
8. Power on all of your audiooutputs.
Example
Bluetooth
Mono Audio Inputs
(Amplifier and Microphones)
Router Master
Remote
(e.g.,Rane
DR6)
Zone
Remote
(e.g.,Rane
DRZH)
Zone Amplifiers / Powered Speakers

5
Features
FrontPanel
1. Display: This display shows information about Zonetech’s current status andoptions.
2. Power Light: This light is on when Zonetech is poweredon.
3. Computer Link Light: This light is on when the Computer Ethernet port on the rear
panel is connected to a computer (powered on). You can then use the computer to
control Zonetech remotely using a web-basedinterace.
4. Bluetooth Light: This light will flash when Zonetech is in Pairing Mode. It will be lit solidly
when Zonetech is paired with an active Bluetooth device. When paired, you can then
send the device’s audio signal to Zonetechwirelessly.
5. Info: Turn this knob to navigate lists and menus in the display. Press this knob to cycle
through the Infopages shown in thedisplay.
6. Left/Right (/): Press each of these buttons to select the previous or next option
(respectively) shown in thedisplay.
7. Bluetooth: Press and hold this button for 5 seconds to enter Pairing Mode in which
Zonetech will search for a nearby Bluetooth device. Doing this will disconnect Zonetech
from a currently paired Bluetooth device.
8. Page: Press this button to show the Pager settings in thedisplay.
9. Input 1–6: Press each of these buttons to select the corresponding input. Its information
will appear in the display. You can then use the Info knob and Left/Right (/) buttons
to edit itssettings.
10. Zone 1–6: Press each of these buttons to select the corresponding input. Its information
will appear in the display. You can then use the Info knob andr Left/Right (/) buttons
to edit itssettings.
9 7
1
6 5 4
10
823

6
1
2
4 3 3 3 3
10
98 7 6
5 5 5
5
RearPanel
1. Power Input (IEC): Use a standard IEC cable to connect this input to a poweroutlet.
2. Bluetooth Antenna Connector (SMA): Connect the included Bluetooth antennahere.
3. Inputs (stereo RCA): Connect audio sources to these stereo inputpairs.
4. Inputs(Euroblock):Connectbalancedorunbalancedaudiosourcestothesemonoinputs.
5. Outputs (Euroblock): Connect line-level (-10 dBV to +4 dBu) devices to these balanced
outputs. The outputs for Zones 1–5 are mono; the Zone 6 output is stereo. Alternatively,
you can configure the Zone 6 output for mono use with a subwoofer (connected to the
R(LO) output) and main loudspeaker (connected to the L(HI)output).
6. Logic Input (Euroblock): Connect normally open external control contacts (relay or
equivalent) to these terminals. When the terminals are connected to each other (i.e., when
the switch is closed), all outputs will be muted. This would typically be used with a fire
alarm system to silence audio output during anemergency.
7. Zone Remotes Ports (RJ45, shielded Cat5e or Cat6 cables): Connect optional Rane
DRZH devices to these ports, which will allow you to select sources and adjust levels for
the zonesremotely.
8. Master Remote Port (RJ45, shielded Cat5e or Cat6 cables): Connect an optional Rane
DR6 remote control to this port, which will allow you to select sources and adjust levels
for all zonesremotely.
9. Pager Port (RJ45, shielded Cat5e or Cat6 cables): Connect an optional Rane RAD device
(e.g., RAD16z, RAD26, etc.) to provide analog audio and logic inputs. Available functions
will depend on the RAD model. Please see rane.com/zonetech for additional information.
10. Computer Ethernet Port (Ethernet): Connect a computer to this port during setup. After
Zonetech is properly configured, you can connect a router or similar access point to this
port, allowing you to use a web browser on your computer to access an interface to
control Zonetech. Alternatively, connect this port directly to a computer using an Ethernet
crossover cable.
Important: For compliance, you must use the included antenna only. No substitutions or
modifications to the antenna are permitted.
Note: When this mute function is active, all front-panel controls will be locked. Mute will
appear in the display with a red background.
Note: If you do not need the pager function, you can connect an optional Rane DR6 to
this port instead. This will provide the same functions as a DR6 connected to the Master
Remote port (see #8above).

7
Operation
Editing InputSettings
You can use Zonetech’s display, Info knob, and Left/Right (/) buttons to edit the settings
of eachinput.
To select an input to edit, press the corresponding Input button (1–6) or the Bluetooth
button. The display will indicate which input is selected: Input 1–6 or Stream.
To show the previous or next setting for the selected input, use the Left/Right (/)
buttons (respectively). Turn the Info knob to adjust the value of each setting.
These are the editable input settings. The abbreviated name (shown when the setting is not
selected) is in parentheses.
Input Level (Level)
This is the volume level at the input stage:
-88.0 to +12.0 dB.
Low Shelf Level (LS Level)
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the low-frequency
shelving filter: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
Tip: If you are unsure of what this level
should be, it is better to use a lower setting
toallowforheadroomandtoprevent
clipping/distortion.
Low Shelf Frequency (LS Freq)
This is the center frequency of the low-
frequency shelving filter: 40–630 Hz
(default: 630 Hz).
PEQ Level
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the mid-range parametric
equalization band: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
Tip: Higher values allow you to boost bass
frequencies more but also require more
amplifier power.
PEQ Frequency (PEQ Freq)
This is the center frequency of the mid-
range parametric equalization band: 40 Hz
– 16 kHz (default: 630 Hz).
PEQ Bandwidth (PEQ Band)
This is the width of the mid-range
parametric equalization band: 0.300–4.000
oct (octaves) (default: 0.500 oct).

8
High Shelf Level (HS Level)
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the high-frequency
shelving filter: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
High Shelf Frequency (HS Freq)
This is the center frequency of the high-
frequency shelving filter: 630 Hz – 16 kHz
(default: 630 Hz).
Tip: Lower values allow you to boost treble
frequencies more but increases the risk of
overdriving the tweeters.
Input Type (???) (Inputs 5 and 6 only)
This is the type of device connected to Input
5 and Input 6: Dynamic (microphone),
Condenser (Microphone), Unbalanced
Line+, Balanced Line (default: Balanced
Line).
Stream Source (???)
This is the source from which Zonetech will
play streamed audio: None (off),
Bluetooth, AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA.
Note: Phantom power is enabled only
when Condenser or selected.
Tip: Unbalanced Line+ allows you to
connect two signals to input (most
commonly left and right RCA lines wired to
a single input).
Tip: Balanced Line is a typical fully
balanced line-level input as used with
commercial audio equipment.

9
EditingOutput(Zone)Settings
You can use Zonetech’s display, Info knob, and Left/Right (/) buttons to edit the settings
of each output(zone):
To select a zone to edit, press the corresponding Zone button (1–6). The display will
indicate which zone is selected: Zone 1–6.
To show the previous or next setting for the selected zone, use the Left/Right (/)
buttons (respectively). Turn the Info knob to adjust the value of each setting.
These are the editable zone settings. The abbreviated name (shown when the setting is not
selected) is in parentheses.
Output Level (Level)
This is the output volume level: -30.0 to
+12.0 dB (default: 0.0 dB). This is the
master volume of the zone.
Input Source (In Source)
This is the audio source of the zone: Input
1–6 or Stream.
Priority Source (Pr Source)
This is the audio source that will play
automatically when an incoming signal is
detected: Input 1–6 or Stream.
Priority Hold Time (H Time)
This determines how long it will take (in
seconds) for the output to switch back to
the original audio source after the priority
source signal falls below the threshold: 1–
60 Sec (default: 3 Sec).
Tip: Enabling this feature is ideal for
switching between audio sources (e.g., a
jukebox and a television) without requiring
user intervention. Tip: Avoid setting this value too low, which
can cause unintended switching between
signals.
Low Shelf Level (LS Level)
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the low-frequency
shelving filter: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
Low Shelf Frequency (LS Freq)
This is the center frequency of the low-
frequency shelving filter: 40–630 Hz
(default: 630 Hz).
Tip: Higher values allow you to boost bass
frequencies more but also require more
amplifier power.
Note: To control the zone settings remotely, you can also use a web-based interface
on your computer (connected to the Computer Ethernet port), one Rane DRZH remote
control per zone (connected to the Zone Remotes ports), or up to two Rane DR6 master
remote controls (connected to the Master Remote and Paging port). See Controlling
Zonetech Remotely for moreinformation.

10
PEQ Level
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the mid-range parametric
equalization band: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
PEQ Frequency (PEQ Freq)
This is the center frequency of the mid-
range parametric equalization band: 40 Hz
– 16 kHz (default: 630 Hz).
PEQ Bandwidth (PEQ Band)
This is the width of the mid-range
parametric equalization band: 0.300–4.000
oct (octaves) (default: 0.500 oct).
High Shelf Level (HS Level)
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the high-frequency
shelving filter: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
High Shelf Frequency (HS Freq)
This is the center frequency of the high-
frequency shelving filter: 630 Hz – 16 kHz
(default: 630 Hz).
Page Enable (PG Enable)
This feature determines whether or not the
zone will receive an audio signal from the
pager: Enabled (on), Disabled (off).
Tip: Lower values allow you to boost treble
frequencies more but increases the risk of
overdriving the tweeters.
Note: If this feature is on, remember to set
the Output Paging Level, which is
independent of the normal Zone Output
Level.
Page Level (PG Level)
This is the output volume level of the pager:
-30.0 to +12.0 dB (default: 0.0 dB).
Page Ducker Depth (PG Duck)
This determines how much the pager, when
activated, will attenuate the normal output
signal: 0.0 to -85.0 dB (default: -12.0 dB).
Tip: Setting this to -85.0 dB will completely
mute the normal output signal when the
pager is on.

11
Limiter Threshold (???)
The limiter ensures the output audio signal
does not exceed this volume level: -60.0 to
0.0 dB (default: 0.0 dB).
Output Mode (Mode) (Zone 6 only)
This determines whether Zone 6’s output
signal is stereo (left and right) (Stereo) or
mono with two-way crossover (X-Over).
Note: If a device (e.g., a power amplifier)
later in the signal path than Zonetech is
using a limiter, the limiter with a lower
threshold will determine the maximum level.
Tip: If you are using a subwoofer and main
loudspeaker with this zone, use the mono
setting, and use the X-Over Freq, Low
Level, and High Level settings to manage
the signal.
X-Over Frequency (X Freq) (Zone 6 only)
This determines the frequency at which the
low frequencies and high frequencies are
split between the subwoofer and main
loudspeaker: 80–300 Hz (default: 125 Hz).
X-Over Low Level (XL Level) (Zone 6 only)
This is the output volume level of the audio
frequencies below the crossover frequency:
-10.0 to +6.0 dB.
Tip: This is essentially the master volume of
the Zone 6 subwoofer.
X-Over High Level (XH Level) (Zone 6 only)
This is the output volume level of the audio
frequencies above the crossover
frequency: -10.0 to +6.0dB.
Tip: This is essentially the master volume of
the Zone 6 main loudspeaker.

12
Paging
You can use Zonetech’s display, Info knob, and Left/Right (/) buttons to edit the paging
settings.
To view Paging settings, press the Page button.
To edit the Paging settings, use the Left/Right (/) buttons to show the previous or
next setting (respectively). Turn the Info knob to adjust the value of each setting.
These are the editable pager settings. The abbreviated name (shown when the setting is not
selected) is in parentheses.
Input Level (Level)
This is the pager volume level: -88.0 to
+12.0 dB. This is independent of the
pager’s chime volume level (see below)
and independent of the Zone level.
Low Shelf Level (LS Level)
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the low-frequency
shelving filter: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
Low Shelf Frequency (LS Freq)
This is the frequency of the low-frequency
shelving filter: 40–630 Hz (default: 630 Hz).
PEQ Level
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the mid-range parametric
equalization band: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
PEQ Frequency (PEQ Freq)
This is the frequency of the mid-range
parametric equalization band: 40 Hz – 16
kHz (default: 630 Hz).
PEQ Bandwidth (PEQ Band)
This is the bandwidth of the mid-range
parametric equalization band: 0.300–4.000
oct (octaves) (default: 0.500 oct).
Note: To control the page settings remotely, you can also use a web-based interface
on your computer (connected to the Computer Ethernetport).

13
High Shelf Level (HS Level)
This is the amount of “boost” (increase) or
“cut” (decrease) of the high-frequency
shelving filter: -15.0 to +8.0 dB.
High Shelf Frequency (HS Freq)
This is the frequency of the high-frequency
shelving filter: 630 Hz – 16 kHz (default:
630 Hz).
Chime
This determines whether the pager’s chime
sound is on (Enabled) or off (Disabled).
The chime will be mixed with the paging
output signal.
Chime Level (???)
This is the volume level of the pager’s chime
sound: -30.0 to +12.0 dB (default: 0 dB).
This is independent of the pager’s overall
volume level.
Tip: If this setting is on when you use the
pager, we recommend waiting a brief
moment for the chime to end before
making an announcement.

14
Stream
Bluetooth
In addition to the six audio inputs on the rear panel, you can send an audio signal wirelessly
from a Bluetooth device to Zonetech. This signal uses its own input channel.
To pair/connect your Bluetooth device to Zonetech:
1. On Zonetech, press and hold the Bluetooth button for 5 seconds. Zonetech's Bluetooth
Light will flash, indicating it is in Pairing Mode and searching for a nearby Bluetooth
device. (Doing this will disconnect Zonetech from a Bluetooth device that is currently
paired.)
2. OnyourBluetoothdevice,enteritssettings,findZonetechandconnecttoit.Zonetech’s
Bluetooth Light will be solid blue when it is paired.
To unpair/disconnect your Bluetooth device from Zonetech, press and hold Zonetech’s
Bluetooth button for 5 seconds. Zonetech will disconnect from your Bluetooth device.
To stream the Bluetooth audio signal to an input
on Zonetech:
1. On Zonetech, press and release the Bluetooth
button. Stream will appear at the top of the
display as well as the name of the streaming
device.
2. Use the Left/Right (/) buttons to selectthe
Stream Source (???) setting.
3. Turn the Info knob to select the Bluetooth
option. Zonetech is now configured to receive
a Bluetooth audiosignal.
4. Press and release the Zone button (1–6) forthe
zone where you want to send the Bluetooth
audiosignal.
5. Use the Left/Right (/) buttons to selectthe
Input Source (In Source) setting.
6. Turn the Info knob to select the Stream option.
That zone is now receiving the audio signal
from your Bluetoothdevice.
Notes:
 
 
 
If your device requires a passcode or PIN, enter 0000.
If your Bluetooth device is not able to connect to Zonetech, press Zonetech’s Bluetooth
button to disconnect previous Bluetooth connections, and try the above steps again.
If you experience trouble connecting or playing music, make sure your Bluetooth device’s
operating system is up to date.

15
AirPlay
TBD
UPnP/DLNA
Select this option to use Zonetech as a DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) Digital Media
Renderer (DMR). This allows you to stream media directly to Zonetech from a PC (or other
device) on the same network. Directions for setting up a DLNA media server may differ
depending on your computer's operating system and the program you would like to use.
Consult your media server’s documentation to find out how to set up media streaming.
1. Make sure the PC and Zonetech are powered on and connected to the samenetwork.
2. On your PC, open a DLNA compatible media server. Windows Media Player is
recommended for most users, but other software can beused.
3. On Zonetech, select UPnP/DLNA in the Stream Source menu.
In the webinterface,
4. In Windows Media Player, right-click the track you would like to play. Navigate to PlayTo
and select Rane Zonetech.
Note: If Zonetech does not appear in your list of devices, make sure your PC has been
set to allow media streaming access forZonetech.
5. A Play To menu will appear where you can add and remove tracks and control the
playback on Zonetech.

16
Info
You can use Zonetech’s display to view additional Zonetech system settings. Press the Info
knob to cycle through the following information pages.
These are the viewable Info settings.
Meters
This view shows multicolor level meters for
all inputs and zones.
Device/Port Status
This view shows information about the
devices currently connected to Zonetech
and their current operations. Use this view
to evaluate system faults, hardware errors,
and other issues.
Important: When diagnosing or
troubleshooting your system, always begin
by reviewing this information.

17
Wired Network Settings
This view shows the wired network
address, subnet, and status.
Wireless Network Settings
This view shows the wireless network
address, subnet, and status.
Important: When diagnosing or
troubleshooting your system, always begin
by reviewing this information and the
Wireless Network Settings.
Important: When diagnosing or
troubleshooting your system, always begin
by reviewing this information and the Wired
Network Settings.
Zonetech Device Information
This view shows information about
Zonetech: the name of the location (Venue
name), the current firmware version
(Firmware Version), and serial number of
the unit (Serial Number).

18
Controlling Zonetech Remotely
There are a few different ways to control various Zonetech functions remotely:
 You can use a computer to access a web-based interface to control all Zonetech
functions. See Computerbelow.
Note: Some controls are only available through the web interface.
 You can use a Rane DR6 remote device to control all input levels, output (zone)
levels, and zone source selections. See Master Remotebelow.
 You can use a Rane DRZH to control the output (zone) functions. See Zonesbelow.
Computer
You can use a web-based interface on your computer to control Zonetech remotely.
To set up Zonetech for use with its web interface, do one of the following:
 Use standard Ethernet cables to connect Zonetech’s Computer Ethernet port to a
router or similar access point, and then connect your computer to that router or
access point (wired orwirelessly).
 Use an Ethernet crossover cable to connect Zonetech’s Computer Ethernetport
directly to a computer.
To open the Zonetech web interface:
1. Open a web browser on yourcomputer.
2. If Zonetech is connected directly to a computer, go tohttp://XX.XX.XX.Xin your web
browser.
3. If your network supports Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Zonetech will
automatically acquire a dynamic IP address that you canuse.
4. Enter the selected IP address in your browser. You may have to enter a password. There
is no default password, but if you have already set one, you will have to enter ithere.
To use the web interface, log-in to either the Full or Limited access options. By default,
Zonetech is shipped in Full access mode.
If you need to switch between Full and Limited access modes, use the Logout button in the
top left corner of thepage.
To edit settings in either mode, click the arrows or move the slider to adjust a value, or click
a radio button to select anoption.

19
Input 1–6, Stream, and Page
These are the editable settings for each tab in Limited access mode.
These are the editable settings for each tab in Full Access mode:
General
Level: This is the volume level at the input
stage.
InputType(Input5and6Tabs):Thisisthe type
of device connected to Input 5 and Input6.
Stream Source (Stream Tab): This is the
source from which Zonetech will play
streamed audio.
Pairing and Status (Stream Tab): Click the
Pairing checkbox to enter Pairing mode
and connect your Bluetooth device. The
Status shows the current state of Bluetooth.
This tab controls the output volume level and input audio source.
Zones
This tab controls the input volume level.
Inputs

20
Input 1–6, Stream, and Page (continued)
Low Shelf
Level: This is the amount of “boost”
(increase) or “cut” (decrease) of the low-
frequency shelving filter.
Frequency: This is the center frequency of
the low-frequency shelving filter.
Parametric EQ (PEQ)
Level: This is the amount of “boost”
(increase) or “cut” (decrease) of the mid-
range parametric equalization band.
Frequency: This is the center frequency of
the mid-range parametric equalization
band.
Bandwidth: This is the width of the mid-
range parametric equalization band.
High-Shelf
Level: This is the amount of “boost”
(increase) or “cut” (decrease) of the high-
frequency shelving filter.
Frequency: This is the center frequency of
the high-frequency shelving filter.
Chime (Page Tab)
Enable: This determines whether the
pager’s chime sound is on (Enabled) or off
(Disabled). The chime will be mixed with
the paging output signal.
Level: This is the volume level of the
pager’s chime sound. This is independent of
the pager’s overall volume level.