RSL Speedwoofer 10S User manual

Before You Dig In!
Many of you (and us as well) don’t like having to suffer through owners manuals. With most
manuals, finding answers to your questions is like having to get straight answers from a politi-
cian. We’ve tried to make this manual as easy to read as possible and even helpful at times.
However, if you already have enough knowledge about subwoofers and you know not to do
the dumb things warned about in the safety pages, be our guest and start enjoying your
Speedwoofer.
Since we don’t know about your particular audio setup, whether it’s home theater or stereo,
we’ve tried to cover all the bases. So feel free to skip around and only read what’s of interest
to you.
A Few Words of Introduction
(You can skip this part if you’d like)
Since 1970, RSL Speakers’ greatest joy has been manufacturing speakers that our customers
consider to be the very best value in sound. Three years ago, we hatched a diabolical plan to
shake up the subwoofer industry. We decided to produce an affordable subwoofer that would
shatter all notions about how much a high end sounding subwoofer would really need to cost.
We wanted to make the Speedwoofer 10S so affordable that people would shake their heads
in disbelief every time they’d listen to it, when considering what they paid for it. Also, its low
price would enable people to enjoy the advantages that multiple subwoofers would provide.
We spent 3 years of painstaking research and hope you agree that we’ve achieved our goals
with the new Speedwoofer 10S.
When it comes to bass, quality is as important as quantity. It’s easy to produce an inexpensive
subwoofer that produces gobs of low end. However, getting it to do it cleanly is a lot more dif-
ficult as many affordable subwoofers sound sloppy. They localize, which means they draw at-
tention to themselves. The bass they produce seems separate from the rest of the sound. You
can sense that bass is coming from the location of the subwoofer. With a properly designed
subwoofer, bass should sound as if it is coming from its actual location in the sound track.
Compression Guide Technology - A Little History
Part of the Speedwoofer 10S’s accurate bass response is due to our exclusive Compression
Guide Technology. Quite a few years ago, we noticed that almost all speakers (including early
RSLs) suffered from a problem. It was an awareness that the sound of bass over speakers was
quite different from bass at a live performance. When you’d hear bass live, you would hear
various details in the bass as well as feel the impact.
2

Compression Guide Technology - History - Continued
For example, with a bass guitar, you can feel the pick of the string along with the bass note.
With a kick drum, you could hear the wrap of the mallet against the skin of the drum and your
body could feel the impact. However, with conventional speakers all you’d hear was an ill-
defined boom. Back then, the only speakers that seemed to get it right were the big, bulky and
expensive transmission-line systems.
We needed to know why there was a disparity between live bass and that reproduced by
speakers. After some research, it became apparent that the problem was due to the way the
woofer was tuned in the enclosure. As was the case then just as it is now, 2 tuning methods
were used by most speaker companies. In one case the cabinet was completely sealed. This
method is called acoustic suspension or air suspension. In the other method, the cabinet had
a calculated opening called a vent or port. The length, width and height of the port was de-
signed to reinforce bass at the lowest frequencies.
The problem with both of these methods is that they rely on system resonance to properly
load the woofer. System resonance acts like a spring in that once the note stops, the woofer
cone wants to continue vibrating. This results in what we call woofer overhang and results in
muddy bass. After realizing the problem, we spent years attempting to lessen the effects of
system resonance. Eventually, we found the solution and the results were spectacular. We call
it Compression Guide and it was a method of dividing the insides of the speaker enclosure into
areas of compression and expansion. As the sound wave passed through these areas, the ef-
fects of resonance were greatly reduced.
We discovered that Compression Guide also paid huge dividends in the midrange and treble
as well. Bookshelf speakers tuned by Compression Guide exhibited much cleaner and trans-
parent sound with both vocals and music. In comparison, other bookshelf speakers sounded
“boxy”. It also helped the speakers to image more accurately.
Standard Enclosure Compression Guide Enclosure
3

Speedwoofer 10 S Features
 Exclusive Compression Guide Technology Tuning
 Precision 10” woofer with heavy, die-cast aluminum frame, massive magnet structure and
motor assembly. This allows the cone, along with its surround to achieve high excursions,
delivering deep, powerful bass with complete control and linearity.
 Powerful 350 Watt RMS Digital Amplifier. This efficient amplifier minimizes power con-
sumption (around 1 watt in standby mode). Because amplifier standards are not strictly
enforced, many manufacturers would rate this amplifier at a much higher wattage. If this
amplifier were rated in peak power (a specification we don’t agree with) it would be rated
in excess of 800 watts.
 Dense MDF wooden cabinet with internal bracing. Unlike most subwoofers, the Speed-
woofer 10S’s enclosure is completely filled with damping material to further reduce un-
wanted resonances.
 Wireless capability. The Speedwoofer 10S has a wireless receiver built in. If you are unable
to run an audio cable to the subwoofer, you can purchase our optional wireless transmit-
ter and get full performance wirelessly.
First Steps
 Be careful when using sharp objects to open
boxes. The insertion of a long and/or sharp ob-
ject such as a blade can damage the components
inside. Use of chainsaws, machetes, power tools,
explosives, light sabers, and most kitchenware is
not recommended. If in doubt, ask mommy to
help you.
 Please take a moment to inspect your subwoofer
for damage. If you find any damage that you did
not specifically request, please contact us or the
shipping company immediately. All components
have been inspected when leaving our factory;
however damage can occur during shipping.
 If possible, we recommend saving all packaging, including boxes, as a convenient means of
re-packaging for moving or for sending your subwoofer in for service (in the unlikely event
they need it).
 You will need either an RCA cable or the optional wireless transmitter to connect the sub-
woofer. If you purchase an RCA cable, you do not need to buy an expensive one. Subwoof-
ers reproduce a narrow band of frequencies, typically 20-200 Hz. Do not allow some slick ,
fast-talking, know-it-all salesperson to convince you to spend a lot on this cable. Just pur-
chase a cable that is constructed well enough to last.
4

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock,
do not remove the cover (or back). No user ser-
viceable parts inside. Please refer all servicing
to licensed service technicians.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric
shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or
moisture. Objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, should not be placed on this appliance.
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match the
wide blade of the AC power plug to the wide
slot of the wall plug and insert it fully.
WARNING: This device generates a fair
amount of heat. Do not place near a heat
source or in spaces that can restrict ventilation.
CAUTION: For continued protection against
risk of fire, replace the fuse only with the same
amperage and voltage type. Refer replacement
to qualified service personnel.
The exclamation point within
an equilateral triangle is in-
tended to alert the user to the
presence of important operat-
ing maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY BEFORE PROCEEDING!
CAUTION
RISK OF
ELECTRIC
SHOCK
DO NOT
OPEN
The lightning flash with ar-
rowhead, within an equilat-
eral triangle, is intended to
alert user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous volt-
age” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to con-
stitute a risk of electrical
shock to persons.
1. Read These Instructions – before operating.
2. Retain These Instructions
3. Heed All Warnings And Follow All Instruc-
tions.
4. Cleaning – Unplug this product from the wall
outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid clean-
ers or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp, soft cloth
for cleaning.
5. Water and Moisture – Do not use this prod-
uct near water. For example, near a bath tub,
wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a
wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and
the like.
6. Accessories – Only use attachments or ac-
cessories specified by the manufacturer. Do
not place this product on an unstable cart,
stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product
may fall, causing serious injury to a child or
adult and serious damage to the product.
When a cart is used, use caution when moving
the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
fromtip- over.
7. Ventilation – Slots and openings into the
cabinet are provided for ventilation and to en-
sure reliable operation of the product and to
protect it from overheating, and these open-
ings must not be blocked or covered. The
openings should never be blocked by placing
the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar
surface. This product should not be placed in a
built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack
unless proper ventilation is provided or the
manufacturer’s instructions have been ad-
hered to.
5

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS — Continued
8. Power Sources – This product should be
operated only from the type of power source
indicated on the marking label. If you are
not sure of the type of power supply to your
home, consult your product dealer or local
power company.
9. Grounding and Polarization – This prod-
uct may be equipped with a polarized alter-
nating-current line plug (a plug having one
blade wider than the other). This plug will fit
into the power outlet only one way. This is a
safety feature. If you are unable to insert the
plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the
plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact
your electrician to replace your obsolete
outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of
the polarized plug.
10. Power-Cord Protection – Power supply
cords should be routed so that they are not
likely to be walked on or pinched by items
placed upon or against them, paying par-
ticular attention to cords at plugs, conven-
ience receptacles, and the point where they
exit from the product.
11. Lightning – For added protection for this
product during a lightning storm, or when it
is left unattended and unused for long peri-
ods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet.
12. Servicing – Do not attempt to service this
product yourself as opening or removing
covers may expose you to dangerous volt-
age or other hazards. Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel.
13. Damage Requiring Service – Unplug
this product from wall outlet and refer ser-
vicing to qualified personnel under the fol-
lowing conditions:
 When power cord or plug is damaged;
 If liquid has been spilled, or product is
exposed to rain or water or it objects
have fallen onto product;
 If the product does not operate normally.
 If the product has been dropped or dam-
aged in any way;
14. Replacement Parts – Use only replacement
parts specified by the manufacturer.. Unauthor-
ized substitutions may result in fire, electric
shock, or other hazards.
15. Heat – The product should be used away
fromheat sources such as radiators, heat regis-
ters, stoves, or other heat-producing products.
23. WARNING: The 115V~/230V~ voltage selec-
tor must be set to the correct local voltage with
the proper Fuse installed.
24. Plastic Bags – Be sure to keep all plastic
bags away from infants and small children to
prevent the risk of choking or suffocation.
WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD - DO NOT
OPEN
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE
PAS OUVRIR
CAUTION:
DISCONNECT POWER CORD BEFORE CHANGING
FUSE. REPLACE WITH SAME TYPE OF FUSE.
ATTENTION:
DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE
6
We can’t figure out why they make us write thesein French as
opposed to Klingon or some other language.

Table Of Contents
7
INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………………………………………..2
COMPRESSION GUIDE TECHNOLOGY - A LITTLE HISTORY…………………………….……..2
SPEEDWOOFER 10S FEATURES…………………………………………………………………………….4
FIRST STEPS………………………………………………………………………………………………………...4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS………………………..……………………………..…………5
ROOM ACOUSTICS………………………………………………………………………………………………6
POSITIONING YOUR SUBWOOFER……………………………………………………………………….7
DUAL SUBWOOFERS………………………………………………………………………………………….10
HOME THEATER INSTALLATION………………………………………………………………………….11
STEREO INSTALLATION………………………………………………………………………………………12
PROTECTING YOUR SPEAKERS…………………………………………………………………………..13
CONNECTING YOUR SUBWOOFER WIRELESSLY……………………...…..…………………….14
CONNECTING DUAL SUBWOOFERS……………………………………………………………………15
SOME INSTALLATION TIPS…………………………………………………………………………………15
CARE AND MAINTENANCE………………………………………………………………………………..16
OPERATING YOUR SUBWOOER.………………………………………………………………………..17
TROUBLESHOOTING………………………………………………………………………………………….19
SPECIFICATIONS………………………………………………………………………………………………..19
WARRANTY……………………………………………………………………………………………………….20
IMAGINERY PAGE………………………………………………………………………………………………21

More Than You Probably Want to Know About Room
Acoustics
The acoustical characteristics of your listening room have a major effect on sound quality. This
is so important, it bears repeating (so feel free to re-read the first sentence). If your room has
good acoustical qualities, even mediocre speakers can sound pretty good. In turn, if your room
has poor acoustics, high-end speakers can sound lacking. Acoustical qualities are determined
by the dimensions of your room and the amount of sound-absorbing materials present.
Because this manual covers the installation of your new subwoofer, we will concern ourselves
with how your room’s acoustics affect bass. Bass distribution is strictly determined by a
room’s dimensions. A room with evenly distributed bass will deliver the same volume of bass
in different seating positions. Obviously, you can’t do a heck of a lot about the dimensions of
your room. Don’t worry; few rooms are close to perfect. You can however maximize the even-
ness of bass distribution by properly positioning your subwoofer (if you have that flexibility)
and in more extreme cases using multiple subwoofers.
And note that while virtually all of today’s Audio/Video receivers and processors include mi-
crophones and room correction circuitry that can help to smooth bass frequency response,
they will not correct for bass distribution problems.
Positioning Your Subwoofer
The goal in placing your subwoofer is to get even bass distribution in various listening posi-
tions. Pretty much anything goes as far as where to place it. We’ve included a few drawings to
indicate relative positioning. We know that, because these drawings have such fine detail, you
may think we hid in people’s homes to photograph their rooms when they weren’t looking.
8
Corner Placement Side Placement

Subwoofer Placement - Continued
In some situations, you may be restricted to only one location for your subwoofer. If you do,
then skip this section and go to the section that describes how to adjust your subwoofer. If
you have the flexibility of moving the subwoofer around, then you should experiment until
you find the best location where the subwoofer distributes bass evenly. This means that in
various seating positions, you should be able to hear the same volume of bass.
Here are a couple of methods to find the right place for your subwoofer. Before you start,
note that you’ll need an RCA cable long enough to extend from your receiver or amplifier to
the location you which to try. Otherwise, you can purchase an optional RSL wireless transmit-
ter, which eliminates the need for the RCA cable. Regardless, you will need to be able to reach
an AC outlet to power the subwoofer (heavy-duty extension cords are OK).
We recommend playing a CD with a song that has a pretty consistent bass track throughout.
Then, experiment with placing the subwoofer in different positions in your room. Placement
near a wall will increase your subwoofer’s bass output. Placement near, or in a corner will in-
crease it even further. When you decide the best location for your subwoofer, it should be
based not only on the most even bass distribution, but the best quality of bass as well. We’ll
delve into that a little more on the next page.
On the previous page are two examples of placing your subwoofer. Here are two more exam-
ples:
Rear Corner Placement Rear Center Placement
9

Subwoofer Placement - Continued
If your family and pets give you permission to place your subwoofer anywhere you wish, your
goal should not only be best bass distribution, but the quality of bass as well. By quality we
mean the most natural sounding bass. Each bass instrument should be distinctive and not
boomy or sloppy. Don’t place your subwoofer right against the wall. It needs a few inches of
airflow in order to provide cooling for the amplifier. And while we’re at it, please don’t place
blankets, tablecloths, football jerseys or any materials that could cover the back of the sub-
woofer and inhibit airflow to the amplifier.
Here’s one method you can use to place your subwoofer. Connect your subwoofer and tempo-
rarily place it in your listening position (on the sofa, etc). Then, while playing some music with
a constant bass track, crawl around the perimeter of your room and find the spot where the
bass seems to have the best quality (don’t let anybody see you, otherwise you’ll have some
explaining to do). Then, place the subwoofer in the spot where you heard the best bass. You
can repeat this for different listening positions and see if you can find the best subwoofer posi-
tion that accommodates the most listening positions.
Dual Subwoofers
Many audio experts recommend dual subwoofers. They feel that with dual subs it’s much eas-
ier to get consistent bass distribution by placing the 2 subs in different positions. Dual subs
deliver more powerful bass throughout the room With that being said, our subwoofers are
quite powerful and the majority of our customers are quite happy with the performance of a
single RSL subwoofer.
Dual subs can also help you achieve foundation-cracking levels of bass (if you’re so inclined).
Dual subwoofers placed in different locations can achieve a 3db or more gain in bass output.
While that may not seem like a lot, for an amplifier to deliver 3db more volume, its power has
to double! If you place dual subwoofers right next to each other, you’ll get approximately a
6db gain in bass volume. That’s huge!
Dual Subs In Front Corners Dual Subs In Same Corner
10

Subwoofer Placement - Continued
The bottom line is that there are so many variations in rooms’ shapes and sizes that there is no
one rule for subwoofer placement. We suggest you try as many different positions as possible.
Dual Subs Asymmetrical Placement Asymmetrical Placement Variation
Home Theater Installation
We have designed the Speedwoofer 10S to accommodate a variety of installations including
home theater as well as stereo systems. The most common installation with be with an A/V
receiver or processor. In this case, all you’ll need is a single RCA cable and a wall outlet. The
RCA cable does not have to be expensive as the subwoofer only reproduces a narrow band of
frequencies. However choose a cable that is constructed to last.
Connect one end of the RCA cable to your receiver or processor’s subwoofer (or LFE) output.
Connect the other end to the Speedwoofer’s LFE input. Then, set the Speedwoofer’s Internal
Crossover Bypass to Bypass. You will not be using the Speedwoofer’s internal crossover, be-
cause that function is performed in your A/V receiver or processor.
Connection to A/V Receiver Or Processor
11

The Easiest Stereo Installation Section You Will Find!
(In this manual) (If you are a home theater user, please skip to page 14)
The RSL Speedwoofer 10S can be used in virtually all stereo systems. Depending on your
equipment, there are different options for hooking up your Speedwoofer.
If Your Stereo Receiver Or Amplifer Has Pre-amplifier
Outputs
Method #1 - Connection Though The Speedwoofer 10S
This method, requires 2 pairs of RCA cables. One pair of cables is connected from your pream-
plifier (or receiver’s pre-amplifier) outputs to the Speedwoofer’s left and right line inputs.
Then another pair is connected from the sub’s left and right line outputs to your power ampli-
fier (or back into your receiver’s power amplifier inputs). The audio signal travels from your
pre-amplifier through the subwoofer giving the subwoofer the audio it needs and then back
out to your power amplifier and to your speakers. In this method, the Speedwoofer’s internal
crossover is used to control the bass of the subwoofer. Set the Internal Crossover Bypass to
Internal Crossover and adjust the crossover frequency. You can also use the method below:
Method #2 - Connection Using Y Adapters
In this method, you also will need 2 pairs of RCA cables, however the lengths may be shorter.
You will also need 2 Y Adapters that split the audio into two RCA connections. Connect a Y
adapter to left pre-amplifier output and the other Y adapter to the right pre-amplifier output.
Then connect one pair of cables from the left and right pre-amplifier outputs to the Speed-
woofer’s left and right line inputs. The other pair of cables connect from the left and right pre-
amplifier’s outputs to the power amplifier’s left and right inputs. Please see diagram above. As
in the first method, the Speedwoofer’s internal crossover is used to control the bass reproduc-
tion of the subwoofer. Set the Internal Crossover Bypass to Internal Crossover and adjust the
crossover frequency. 12

Receivers And Amplifiers With No Pre-amplifier Out-
puts
Method #3 - Connection Using Speaker Wires
If your equipment can’t accommodate the first two methods, you can still connect your
Speedwoofer. This third method will work just fine and is very simple. You will need an addi-
tional pair of two-conductor speaker wires. In addition to your main speaker connections,
you’ll run a second set of wires to your subwoofer (see diagram above). As in the above meth-
ods, the Speedwoofer’s internal crossover is used to control the bass reproduction of the sub-
woofer. Be sure to set the Internal Crossover Bypass to Internal Crossover and adjust the
crossover frequency.
Caution: Protect Your Speakers
In a normal home theater system, the A/V receiver or processor protects the other speakers in
the system by filtering off the bass when you set the crossover frequencies. This is especially
important when your other speakers are smaller and not designed to handle low bass frequen-
cies. In the above 3 methods of connecting your subwoofer in a stereo system, your amplifier
will deliver all of the bass to your other speakers. If the speakers are small, damage could re-
sult if played at a very loud volume. However, you can protect your smaller speakers by using
external inline filters to reduce the bass frequencies going to your speakers. These filters plug
inline with your RCA cables. If you would like to get a set of these filters, please contact us.
Please note that you can only use this solution with methods #1 and #2. If you need to use
method #3 and are concerned about protecting your smaller speakers, please also contact us.
Protecting Your Speakers With In-Line Filters 13

Connecting Your Subwoofer Wirelessly
If you have difficulty running an RCA cable to the subwoofer, you can connect the Speed-
woofer 10S wirelessly. The Speedwoofer 10S comes with a built-in wireless receiver. You’ll
need the optional RSL AT1 Wireless Audio Transmitter. Connect the transmitter to your A/V
receiver or processor’s subwoofer or LFE output. When you first setup the RSL Speedwoofer
10S for wireless use, you will need to pair it with the wireless transmitter.
Wireless Transmitter Pairing Instructions
1. Connect the transmitter to a USB power source.
2. Plug in the Speedwoofer and turn on the power.
3. The light on the transmitter will be flashing slowly. Push and hold the transmitter’s pairing
button until it flashes more rapidly. Then release the button.
4. Immediately press and hold the pairing button on the Speedwoofer until the light on the
transmitter becomes solid.
5. Release the button. Your Speedwoofer is now paired. If the transmitter light begins to flash
slowly, push and hold its pairing button again. If pairing fails, temporarily place transmitter
closer to the Speedwoofer and away from other Wi-Fi devices. Repeat the above procedure.
Another use for a wireless connection is that it makes it easier to try the subwoofer in differ-
ent locations, before running a wired connection. The wireless transmitter normally has a 30
ft. range. Its signal can be affected by interference from wireless networks, large objects and
other electronic devices.
Wireless Subwoofer Connection
Optional Wireless Transmitter Subwoofer Wireless Pairing Button 14

There are 3 ways to connect dual subwoofers. Most of today’s A/V receivers and processors
provide 2 subwoofer or LFE connections. These connections have exactly the same audio sig-
nal. So, you can run separate RCA cables to each of your subwoofer using these 2 connections.
The second way is if your A/V receiver only has one subwoofer or LFE connection. In this case,
you can connect a Y adapter to the receiver’s output and connect two RCA cables (one for
each subwoofer) to the adapter. The third way can be used if the subwoofers are in close
proximity of each other. After connecting the first subwoofer, simply connect an RCA cable
from the first subwoofer’s line outputs to the second subwoofer’s line inputs (see diagram
above). This method will work even if the first subwoofer is connected or paired wirelessly. In
a home theater installation you will bypass both subwoofers’ internal crossovers. However, in
stereo installations you will need to use and adjust both subwoofers’ internal crossovers.
Connecting Dual Subwoofers
Connecting Two Subs - A/V Receiver Or
Processor
Some Installation Tips
(Tips are always appreciated)
Most modern A/V receivers and processors include some type of auto setup and room correc-
tion. During the setup process, they will ask you to adjust the volume control on the sub-
woofer to a certain volume. In most situations, you do not have to follow this instruction ex-
actly. Your goal should be to have the subwoofer’s volume control as close to the vertical or
12 O’clock position as possible. This will give you the most flexibility to adjust the subwoofer’s
output up or down, depending on what you’re listening to. Most A/V receivers also allow you
to adjust the subwoofer’s volume by their remote. Normally, we suggest choosing a higher
output level to the subwoofer during setup.
Connecting Two Subs - Stereo
15

Some Installation Tips - Continued
The goal of a properly setup subwoofer is to produce accurate, controlled bass without sacri-
ficing the teeth chattering impact some of you enjoy. The most common mistake people make
is setting the subwoofer to play too loudly. The subwoofer should always blend seamlessly
with the satellite speakers rather than being intrusive.
Your RSL Speedwoofer 10S is powered by a conservatively-rated 350 watt RMS amplifier. Com-
bined with its Compression Guide tuning, your Speedwoofer should be more than capable of
providing an abundance of clean, powerful bass. In addition, the RSL Speedwoofer 10S con-
tains circuitry that helps prevent distortion when played at an excessively loud volume. How-
ever, all subwoofers can be played loudly enough to be overdriven regardless of size, power,
or price. In the unlikely event that you desire more bass, try placing the RSL Speedwoofer in a
corner.
The RSL Speedwoofer 10S has high quality, built-in protection circuitry, although no protection
circuitry is foolproof. It’s best to prevent the subwoofer from being over-driven in the first
place. Here are a couple of indications of trouble to watch out for. If you notice the following
taking place, reduce your subwoofer’s volume until these symptoms disappear.
 Noise that doesn’t sound natural. In movie scenes or music with heavy bass, listen for any
noise that doesn’t sound like it should be there. In some cases this can sound like a rattling
or a very muddy rumble.
 Clipping. A good indication of clipping is if your subwoofer sounds excessively sloppy; as if
it is flopping back and forth. This will produce some pretty ugly sounds. The RSL Speed-
woofer 10S uses high quality protection designed to keep clipping to a minimum. There-
fore, this may be a difficult indication to listen for.
If you’re not sure if your subwoofer is being overdriven, remove the grill and look at the
woofer itself. See if it appears as if it’s moving back-and-forth excessively. The woofer should
always move with tight, controlled precision. If you suspect the woofer’s movement is exces-
sive, try reducing your subwoofer’s volume until it appears to move appropriately.
Care And Maintenance
 Clean your subwoofer using a soft, moist cloth (Windex or water is recommended), pref-
erably microfiber or lint-free. Do not put your subwoofer in the washing machine.
 Be very gentle when cleaning the front of your subwoofer, trying not to put pressure on
the woofer itself.
 Be careful with liquids or beverages near your Speedwoofer. It does not play better when
wet. Don’t place flowers or plants that require watering on top of the subwoofer. Watering
your Speedwoofer will not make it grow.
 Please keep your Speedwoofer away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
 If you operate the subwoofer with the grille off, please make sure that the woofer does
not come in contact with anything as it can be damaged.
 Wires can loosen over time. Periodically make sure all connections to the Speedwoofer are
tight. If a wire loosens and touches other wires, your system could be damaged.
 Do not expose your subwoofer to extremely hot or cold temperatures.
 Your Speedwoofer may not be used as a flotation device. 1615

Operating your RSL Speedwoofer 10S
Power Indicator - When the indicator light is red, the Speedwoofer is in standby mode. When
the Speedwoofer receives a signal, it will turn on and the light will change to blue. If the light
won’t change to blue, check the audio connection to the subwoofer (either RCA connection or
wireless pairing light on the wireless transmitter - optional). Please make sure your receiver’s
output volume to the subwoofer is adjusted high enough to trigger the auto on function. If the
light isn't on at all, then the subwoofer isn't receiving power. Re-check the power switch, and
AC power connection. Finally, check the fuse (see page 19).
Wireless Pairing Switch - To use your Speedwoofer wirelessly, you'll need to turn on the
Speedwoofer and the transmitter. If the transmitter shows a solid light, it is paired and ready.
If the light on the transmitter is flashing, it requires pairing. Please refer to the pairing proce-
dure on page 14. Keep in mind that wireless operation can be affected by distance, objects or
interference from your home’s Wi-Fi network.
Volume - Controls the volume of bass output. During initial setup with your A/V receiver, we
recommend that you set the volume control somewhere around the 12 o'clock position. That
will allow maximum flexibility if you need to perform fine adjustments with the volume control
at a later time. If you find that you have to turn the volume control up too high or down too
low, refer to the setup in your A/V receiver to adjust the output volume to the subwoofer.
17

Crossover Bypass - If using the Speedwoofer for home theater, you will want to bypass the
Speedwoofer's crossover to use the crossover in your receiver instead. Simply flip the switch
to "crossover bypass." In applications with an amplifier without an internal crossover (such as
stereo), you’ll need to use the Speedwoofer's crossover by flipping the switch to "internal
crossover". At that point you can adjust the crossover frequency with the knob.
Crossover Frequency - Lets you choose the frequency that the subwoofer takes over bass re-
production. An 80Hz setting means your Speedwoofer will handle all frequencies 80Hz and
below. An 80Hz setting is recommended for larger bookshelf speakers. For smaller bookshelf
speakers, we recommend a setting of 90 - 100Hz. Choosing a crossover frequency that’s too
high can cause the subwoofer to localize. Localizing means that the subwoofer draws atten-
tion to itself. You shouldn’t be able to tell that there’s a separate subwoofer operating. With
the Speedwoofer 10S’ Compression Guide Technology, you can set a higher crossover fre-
quency than most subwoofers without the problem of localization.
Phase - Allows you to slightly delay the bass through subwoofer. This is to insure that the sub-
woofer blends perfectly with the rest of the speakers. The bass should sound like it’s coming
from your front speakers instead of a separate subwoofer. In addition, the phase should be
adjusted so that the output in your room is maximum at the crossover frequency. If you’re a
bit techy, this can be determined using a sound level meter and a pure tone that corresponds
to the crossover frequency. The standard setting is 0 degrees, but some experimentation may
be needed.
Line In/LFE In - LFE stands for low frequency effects. This is where the Speedwoofer receives
the bass signal from your receiver or amplifier. For home theater, use a single RCA cable from
the receiver's subwoofer or LFE output to the Speedwoofer's LFE in. For a 2 channel system,
use a stereo pair of RCA cables to the Speedwoofer's Line inputs.
Line Out - For a 2 channel system, this feeds the signal back to the amplifier for your other
speakers. The Line Outs can also be used to connect an additional Speedwoofer. See the Dual
Speedwoofer section.
Speaker Level In - This connection can be used in stereo systems with amplifiers that do not
have pre-amplifier outputs. Connect one set of speaker wires from your receiver to your
Speedwoofer and another set to your main speakers. Use the Speedwoofer’s internal cross-
over and adjust it to the appropriate frequency. Do not use this connection if you’ve already
connected the Speedwoofer using any of the other methods.
Input Voltage - Is Normally set for use in the U.S. and Canada at 115 Volts. If your country's
AC voltage is 230-240 Volts, you must change this setting before using the Speedwoofer. You
must also change the fuse to a 2.5 amp fuse. See the back of the subwoofer. Unfortunately,
failure to do this will void your warranty.
Main Power Switch - This will normally be left on. When switched on, your Speedwoofer will
go into standby mode (red light) until it receives an audio signal. Standby mode consumes very
little power (around 1 watt). When the Speedwoofer receives an audio signal, the light will
turn from red to blue. When the Speedwoofer stops receiving an audio signal, it will return to
standby mode after approximately 20 minutes.
When connecting and disconnecting cables to the Speedwoofer, make sure the main power
switch is off.
AC Receptacle - Receives the power cord and AC power. This is where the fuse is stored. You
may use an extension cord, but we recommend one with heavy gauge wire. 18

Troubleshooting
(As much as we try, like most instruction manuals, we’ll probably address every problem
except the one you’re experiencing. So, call or email us. We’ll be happy to help).
No Sound from Your subwoofer. Power indicator not lit.
1. Check to confirm that your subwoofer is set to the “on” or “standby” position.
2. Inspect the power cord. Make sure it is securely plugged in to the wall outlet and subwoofer
and that it has not been damaged.
3. Be sure the wall outlet is active.
4. Your RSL Speedwoofer 10S’s amplifier contains a removable fuse designed to protect it from
overheating, short circuits, and other potentially damaging occurrences. This fuse should be
checked and is located in the power cord socket on the amplifier.
Make sure the Speedwoofer is unplugged from the AC when accessing the fuse.
You will need to insert a flat-head screwdriver (or appropriate object) in the horizontal
slot located on the power cord socket, just below where the cord plugs in. This is the
piece that contains the fuse.
Gently pry the fuse housing open until it detaches. Extract the housing from the power
cord socket, remove the fuse and inspect it. These housings can also hold a spare fuse
in addition to the main fuse. If the wire inside the cylinder is severed or displays a gap;
the fuse is bad and needs to be replaced. Replace with the spare fuse or a fuse with ex-
actly the same value. The value is indicated below the power socket.
If the new fuse blows, your subwoofer requires service. Please contact us.
5. The RSL Speedwoofer has internal circuit protection that could be tripped. If you sus-
pect this, turn down the subwoofer’s volume and turn off the power. Wait 5 minutes
before turning it on again.
Specifications
Frequency Response: 24-200 Hz+/- 3db
Overall Frequency Response: 18-200 Hz
Amplifier Power: 350 Watts RMS (840 or more Watts Peak Dynamic Power) Note: Peak power
specs are not regulated and, although our competitors use this spec, this is not how we prefer
to rate power.
10" Aluminum Frame High–Excursion Woofer with Massive Double Magnet Structure
Compression Guide Tuning Technology
Wireless Operation with Optional Wireless Transmitter
Wireless range: approximately 30 feet.
Dimensions: 16"H x 15"W x 17 3/4" D (Including AC Cord) Weight: 46 lbs.
19

Peace Of Mind Warranty
We’ve worked countless hours without food, sleep, or television to build a subwoofer that will
serve you well for many years. However, in the unlikely event it breaks and it’s our fault, we’ll
fix it for free.
Speakers are warranted for 5 years; electronics are warranted for 2 years.
Here are the terms:
RSL warranties your speakers for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase. We warranty
our subwoofer amplifiers for a period of 2 years from the date of purchase. Our products are
warranted to be free of defects in original materials and workmanship. Our warranties apply
to the original purchaser. To obtain warranty service, we ask you to help us out with the fol-
lowing:
1. Be able to furnish a copy of your sales invoice. However, if you can’t find it, we’ll do our best
to fire up the computer and, if Windows doesn’t crash again, we’ll look it up for you.
2. Return authorization must first be obtained by contacting us before sending your sub-
woofer to us. It must be properly packed.
3. Our speakers were designed for residential stereo or home theater use and must be used in
this manner. They were not specifically designed for public address, musical instrument ampli-
fication, or other commercial or high intensity applications. Such use is not covered under
warranty.
4. Speakers returned under the terms of the warranty will be repaired or replaced at our op-
tion. We will pay for shipping the repaired product back to you if you live in the Continental
U.S. You are responsible for prepaying the shipping to us. Speakers that have been abused,
operated improperly, improperly packed, tampered with, insulted or opened (without our
prior permission) will not be repaired under warranty. This warranty does not cover damage
caused by the use of faulty or improper audio/video components.
5. This is the total warranty. There are no other warranties, expressed or implied. No responsi-
bility is assumed for any incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific
legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from state to state.
If you require service please contact us through our website or by phone (we promise to be
nice about it, even if you did something dumb).
26500 W. Agoura Road
Suite 571
Calabasas, CA 91302
[phone]
www.rslspeakers.com
SPEAKERS
A division of Rogersound Labs, LLC