Samson AirLine 88 Series User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL

Copyright 2019, Samson Technologies Corp.
v3
This product is covered by the US patent: US9,602,053
Samson Technologies Corp.
278-B Duffy Ave
Hicksville, NY 11801
www.samsontech.com

AirLine 88x Wireless System 3
Important Safety Information
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR
BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.
This lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of non-insulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
ATTENTION
RISQUE D’ÉLECTROCUTION !
NE PAS OUVRIR !
WARNING
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD. DO NOT USE THIS PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION
CORD, RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED
TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE. TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD. DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. TO PREVENT ELECTRICAL SHOCK, MATCH WIDE
BLADE PLUG TO WIDE SLOT AND FULLY INSERT.
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is
a separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation
that requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private household in the 28 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may
return their used electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a
retailer (if you purchase a similar new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of
disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment,
recovery and recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and
human health.

4
Important Safety Information
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
Install in accordance with the manufac-
turer’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 polar-
ized plug has two blades with one wider
than the other. A grounding type plug has
two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong are
provided for your safety. If the provided
plug does not fit into your outlet, consult
an electrician for replacement of the
obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked
on or pinched particularly at the plugs,
convenience receptacles, and at the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories speci-
fied by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand,
tripod, 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.
13. Unplug the apparatus during lightening
storms, or when unused for long periods
of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
Service is required when the apparatus
has been damaged in any way, such as
power supply cord or plug is damaged,
liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus has been
exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. This appliance shall not be exposed to
dripping or splashing water and that no
object filled with liquid such as vases
shall be placed on the apparatus.
16. Caution-to prevent electrical shock,
match wide blade plug wide slot fully
insert.
17. Please keep a good ventilation environ-
ment around the entire unit.
18. The direct plug-in adapter is used as
disconnect device, the disconnect device
shall remain readily operable.
19. Batteries (battery pack or batteries in-
stalled) shall not be exposed to excessive
heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.

AirLine 88x Wireless System 5
Important Safety Information
FCC Rules and Regulations
Samson wireless receivers are certified under FCC Rules part 15 and transmitters are certified
under FCC Rules part 74. Licensing of Samson equipment is the user’s responsibility and
licensability depends on the user’s classification, application and frequency selected.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules Class B and RSS-210 of Industry & Science
Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device must not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received including interference that
may cause undesired operation. Suitable for home or office use.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced Radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment is intended for use in wireless microphone applications.
Equipment is intended for sale in: AT, BE, CH, CY, CZ*, DK, EE, FI*, FR*, DE*, GR*, HU, IE, IS,
IT, LV, LT*, LU, MT*, NL, NO*, PL* PT, RO, SK, SI, ES, SE, UK
*Subject to license. Please contact your national frequency authority for information on
available legal use in your area. Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by
Samson Technologies Corp. could void your authority to operate the equipment.
Hereby, Samson Technologies Corp., declares that this CR88x, CH88 and CB88 are in
compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 2014/53/
EU. The declaration of conformity may be consulted at:
http://www.samsontech.com/site_media/support/manuals/AirLine88x_AG8_DOC.pdf

6
Congratulations on purchasing the Samson AirLine 88x AG8 Guitar system. The AirLine 88x
offers true wireless freedom without the hassle of a beltpack or cable. Featuring a plug-in
transmitter with a dual-position connector that is designed to fit a variety of guitar jacks, the
system provides professional sound, premium reliability and a 300’ operating range, freeing you
to roam the stage. Offering frequency-agile UHF operation, the CR88x receiver provides 100
available channels to secure reliable wireless performance. The receiver provides easy setup
with 1-touch scan that analyzes and selects the clearest operating channel and infrared set to
pair the transmitter with the receiver.
The AirLine 88 AG8 system continues Samson’s longstanding commitment to wireless
innovation. Designed to be an extension of your instrument rather than a separate component,
the AG8 Guitar Transmitter lets you rule the stage with confidence. The AirLine 88x system
ensures clear, interruption-free performance by combining tone-key with auto-mute. This
configuration allows only the transmitter’s audio to pass through the receiver, and mutes the
output if there is any interference. For travel or permanent installation, the AirLine 88x includes
a standard 19" rackmount kit.
In these pages, you’ll find a detailed description of the features of the AirLine 88x wireless
system, as well as a guided tour through its control panel, step-by-step instructions for its setup
and use, and full specifications. If your wireless system was purchased in the United States,
you’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—don’t forget to fill it out and mail it in so that you
can receive online technical support and so that we can send you updated information about
this and other Samson products in the future. Also, be sure to check out our website (www.
samsontech.com) for complete information about our full product line.
We recommend you keep the following records for reference, as well as a copy of your sales
receipt.
Receiver Serial number: _________________________________________
Transmitter Serial number: ______________________________________
Date of purchase: ______________________________________________
Dealer name: __________________________________________________
If you have any questions or comments regarding the AirLine 88x AG8 Guitar system or any
other products from Samson, do no hesitate to contact us at [e-mail].
With proper care and maintenance, your AirLine 88x System will operate trouble-free for many
years. Should your AirLine 88x System ever require servicing, a Return Authorization (RA)
number must be obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, the unit
will not be accepted. Please visit www.samsontech.com/ra for an RA number prior to shipping
your unit. Please retain the original packing materials and, if possible, return the unit in its
original carton. If your AirLine 88x System was purchased outside of the United States, contact
your local distributor for warranty details and service information.
Introduction

AirLine 88x Wireless System 7
In order for your wireless system to work correctly, both the receiver and transmitter must be set to the
same channel.
Follow this basic procedure for setting up and using your AirLine 88x Guitar wireless system:
Physically place the CR88x receiver where it will be used, and extend the antennas vertically.
The general rule of thumb is to maintain “line of sight” between the receiver and transmitter so
that the person using the transmitter can see the receiver.
With the CR88x receiver powered off, connect the included power adapter. Turn the CR88x
on momentarily to confirm that the unit is receiving power. You’ll see the LED display light up.
Then turn the CR88x power off.
With your amplifier or mixer off and volume control all the way down, connect the CR88x
receiver to the input of an amplifier or the mic or line level input of a mixer using the balanced
XLR output or unbalanced 1/4”output. Turn the Level knob on the CR88x completely
counterclockwise, then turn its power on.
Quick Start
With the AG8 powered off, install a
fresh AA battery. Be sure to observe the
plus and minus polarity markings.
Turn on the power to the
transmitter by sliding the
Power switch to the left.

8
Quick Start
Note: The AG8 will only accept infrared transmission from the receiver for the first 10
seconds after the AG8 is powered on. If you need to change the operating channel,
the AG8 must be first powered off, then powered on again to receive the new channel.
Press the SCAN button for more than 2
seconds (the display will start to flash quickly)
on the front of the CR88x receiver to scan
for an available channel. Once the optimal
channel is selected the receiver will enter IR
Set mode. The display will flash slowly in IR
Set mode.
If you want to set a transmitter to the
receiver’s currently selected channel, press
and hold the SCAN button for more than 10
seconds (until the display flashes slowly) to
enter IR Set mode directly.
3. Plug in receiver 4. Turn on receiver 5. Plug receiver into audio system 6. Press Select button to change channel 9. Press and hold SELECT button to IR set 10. Adjust Volume control7. Install batteries 8. Press button on transmitter to turn on
9. Press and hold Select button to IR set7. Install batteries 8. Turn on belt pack transmitter
Position the AG8 transmitter about 3–12” (8–30 cm) from the front of the CR88x with the
transmitter’s IR window facing the IR transmitter on the front panel of the CR88x receiver.
When the transmission is complete, the CR88x
will receive RF signal and the tone key from the
transmitter. The READY indicator will light on the
front panel of the CR88x receiver.
This device complies withPart 15of the
FCC Rules.Operation issubject to the
followingtwo conditions:
(1)This device may not cause harmful
interference,and
(2)this device must accept any
interferencereceived, including
interferencethat may cause
undesiredoperation.
FREQ:
542-566MHz
This device complies withPart 15of the
FCC Rules.Operation issubject to the
followingtwo conditions:
(1)This device may not cause harmful
interference,and
(2)this device must accept any
interferencereceived, including
interferencethat may cause
undesiredoperation.
FREQ:
542-566MHz
3. Plug in receiver 4. Turn on receiver 5. Plug receiver into audio system 6. Press Select button to change channel 9. Press and hold SELECT button to IR set 10. Adjust Volume control7. Install batteries 8. Press button on transmitter to turn on
9. Press and hold Select button to IR set7. Install batteries 8. Turn on belt pack transmitter

AirLine 88x Wireless System 9
Quick Start - Single System Setup
When the transmission is complete, the CR88x will
receive RF signal and the tone key from the trans-
mitter. The READY indicator will light on the front
panel of the CR88x receiver.
Turn on your connected amplifier or mixer, but keep
the volume all the way down. Set the Volume knob
on the CR88x fully clockwise (to its “10” setting).
This is unity gain.
Play your instrument at normal performance level.
Slowly raise the volume of your amplifier or mixer until the desired level is reached.
If you find the system has noticeable dropouts, reduced overall working range, or unexpected
noise bursts, change the operating channel of the system using the steps above.
3. Plug in receiver 4. Turn on receiver 5. Plug receiver into audio system 6. Press Select button to change channel 9. Press and hold SELECT button to IR set 10. Adjust Volume control7. Install batteries 8. Press button on transmitter to turn on
9. Press and hold Select button to IR set7. Install batteries 8. Turn on belt pack transmitter
Multiple System Setup
When using multiple systems, each system must be set to a different operating channel. Transmitter
and receiver pairs must be on the same channel plan in order to work together.
When setting an additional transmitter, make sure to move all other transmitters away from the
CR88x receiver to prevent setting multiple transmitters to the same channel.

10
Setting the Plug for your Guitar
The AG8 plug can be configured for Fender
Stratocaster™-type (angled) recessed jacks,
and in a second position designed to be
used with all other instruments that have end
mount-jacks.
To configure the AG8 for Fender
Stratocaster™ (angled jack) or flat jack style
guitars, remove the thumbscrew, unscrew the
plug and reinstall the two components while
swapping their positions.
Fender Stratocaster™-type jack End Mount-type jack

AirLine 88x Wireless System 11
1. 1/4” Phone Plug - Insert this standard 1/4” plug into your electric guitar or electric bass.
Note that the position of the plug can be configured for Fender Stratocaster™ type recessed
jacks, and in a second position designed to be used with all other instruments that have
end mount-jacks. If you need to change the phone plug configuration, simply remove
the thumbscrew from the covered jack position, unscrew the plug and reinstall the two
components while swapping their positions.
2. IR Lens - This window is used to capture the infrared signal sent from the CR88x receiver
during the IR SET to channelize the transmitter. The IR Lens is only active for the first 10
seconds the transmitter is powered on.
3. STATUS LED - This two color indicator shows the status of the AG8 transmitter.
Amber Mute
Red Peak
Flashing Red Low Battery
4. MUTE Switch - This switch is used to temporarily turn off the audio output of the
transmitter. Move this switch in the direction of “MUTE” to turn off the output and move
the switch in the direction of “ON” to turn the audio on.
5. Power switch - Move this switch in the direction of the arrow to turn the AG8 power on;
move it to the right to turn the power off.
6. Antenna - This permanently attached flexible antenna should be fully extended during
normal operations.
1
2 3 4 5 6
AG8 Callouts

12
7. Battery cover - Pull back gently on this
cover at the ribbing and pry upwards to
remove.
8. Battery compartment - Insert a standard
AA (LR6) alkaline battery here, being sure
to observe the plus and minus polarity
markings shown. Although rechargeable
Ni-Cad batteries can be used, they do not
supply adequate current for more than four
hours of operation.
WARNING: Do not insert the battery
backwards; doing so can cause severe
damage to the AG8 and will void your
warranty.
Note: Attention should be drawn to the
environmental aspects of battery disposal.
9. Gain control - This miniature trimmer
is used to fine tune the AG8’s input
sensitivity. Use the included screwdriver to
make the adjustments.
8
7
9
AG8 Callouts

AirLine 88x Wireless System 13
1. Antennas - The antenna mountings allow full rotation for optimum placement. In normal
operation, both antennas should be placed in a vertical position. Both antennas can be
folded inward for convenience when transporting the CR88x.
2. VOLUME Control - This knob sets the level of the audio signal being output through both the
balanced and unbalanced output jacks on the rear panel. Reference level is obtained when
the knob is turned fully clockwise (to its “10” setting).
3. READY Indicator - This indicator lights green when the CR88x is receiving RF signal and the
system is ready to use.
4. PEAK Indicator - This indicator lights red when the transmitted audio signal is overloaded.
5. LED Display - The two digit, 7-segment LED display shows the receiver’s current operating
channel.
6. IR Transmitter - During “IR SET” an infrared light is used to set the transmitter channel.
7. SCAN Button - Press this button for more than 2 seconds to enter scan mode, the display
will flash quickly. The receiver will scan through the 100 operating channels to find the
optimal channel for performance. Once the scan is complete, the CR88x will enter IR Set
mode and send the selected channel to the transmitter.
Press and hold the button for more than 10 seconds to enter IR set mode, the display will
flash slowly. This will send the receiver’s current selected channel to the transmitter.
8. POWER Switch - Use this to turn the CR88x power on and off.
CR88x Receiver Features - Front Panel

14
CR88x Receiver Features - Rear Panel
1. DC Input - Connect the supplied power adapter here, using the strain relief as shown in the
illustration below. WARNING: Do not substitute any other kind of power adapter. Doing so
can cause severe damage to the CR88x and will void your warranty.
2. BALANCED OUTPUT - Use this electronically balanced low impedance (600 Ohm) XLR jack
when connecting the CR88x to professional (+4dBu) audio equipment. Pin wiring is as
follows: Pin 1 ground, Pin 2 high (hot), and Pin 3 low (cold).
3. UNBALANCED OUTPUT - Use this unbalanced high impedance (5K Ohm) 1/4" jack when
connecting the CR88x to consumer (-10dBV) audio equipment. Wiring is as follows: tip hot,
sleeve ground.
Using the strain relief: Gather up a loop of
wire and pass it through the strain relief,
then pass the adapter plug through the
loop in order to create a knot.

AirLine 88x Wireless System 15
Mount the receiver into the rack using
the appropriate size rack screws (not
included). To ensure equal tension and
balance when installing the receiver,
you should secure screws in a crisscross
pattern of opposite corners: top left ->
bottom right -> top right -> bottom left.
The CR88x receiver can be installed into a standard 19” rack for transport or permanent
installation using the included rack ears. Follow the simple steps below to mount the CR88x:
Rack Mounting
Attach the included rack ears by sliding each rack ear
into the groove on either side of the CR88x until they lock
into place, and the receiver flush with the front panel.
Position the CR88x receiver into an
available rack space and slide in until
the rack ears are touching the rails of the
rack case and are aligned with the rack
rail holes.
In order to mount two CR88x receivers in one rack space, the system includes a center
connection piece. Slide the center connection piece into the groove of each receiver and attach
the short rack ears to each receiver. Mount the receivers into the rack using the crisscross
pattern described above.

16
Troubleshooting
Issue Solutions
No Audio
Make sure that the transmitter and receiver are both
powered on.
Ensure the AG8 transmitter’s batteries are fully charged.
Check that the transmitter is not muted.
Confirm that the CR88x adapter is correctly connected
and plugged into an electrical outlet.
Turn on the CR88x receiver.
Make sure the CR88x audio output connections are
securely connected.
Ensure that the receiver and transmitter are in line of
sight with one another.
Check the receiver and audio input device level controls.
Ensure that the transmitter and receiver are set to the
same operating channel. If unsure, reset the channel by
following the steps in the “Quick Start”.
Distorted Audio
The receiver output level or audio input device level may
be too high.
The input gain on the transmitter (AG8) may be too high.
Audio Dropout
The transmitter may be too far away from the receiver.
Move it closer to the receiver, or reposition the antennas.
Remove any sources that may cause RF interference
such as cell phones, cordless phones, lighting
equipment, computers, metal structures, etc.
Receiver will not power
on
Check the adapter to ensure it is properly connected and
plugged into an outlet providing power.
Transmitter will not
power on Ensure the AG8 transmitter’s batteries are fully charged.
Unwanted noise or
interference
If using multiple systems, make sure none of the
systems are operating on the same channel. If the
problem persists, change one or all of the systems
channels.

AirLine 88x Wireless System 17
System
Working Range 300' (100m) line of sight
Audio Frequency Response 50 Hz - 15 kHz
T.H.D. (Overall) <1% (@AF 1 kHz, RF 46 dBu)
Dynamic Range >100 dB A-weighted
Signal to Noise >90 dB
Operating Temperature –10°C (14°F) to +60°C (+140°F)
Tone Key Frequency 35 kHz
AG8 Guitar Transmitter
Input Connector 1/4” Plug
Input Impedance 1MΩ
Input Gain Range 30dB
RF Power 5mW EIRP
Power Requirements 1 x AA (LR6)
Battery Life 5 hours
Dimensions (LxWxH) 1.17” x 1.6” x 4.5”
30mm x 40mm x 114mm
(1/4” plug is mounted at 45°)
Weight 0.12lb / 50g
CR88x Receiver
Audio Output Level - Unbalanced +14 dBu
Audio Output Level - Balanced +9 dBu
Audio Output Impedance - Unbalanced 810 Ohms
Audio Output Impedance - Balanced 240 Ohms
Sensitivity -100 dBm / 30 dB sinad
Image Rejection >50 dB
Operating Voltage 15 VDC 200mA
Dimensions (LxWxH) 8.25" x 4.9" x 1.75"
210mm x 125mm x 44mm
Weight 0.88lb / 400g
At Samson, we are continually improving our products, therefore specifications and images are
subject to change without notice.
Specifications

18
Operating Bands and Frequency Ranges
Band Frequency Range
Kª 470 –494 MHz
Dª 542–566 MHz
I L* 794–806 MHz
B* 806–810 MHz
G* 863–865 MHz
* Not for use in the USA and Canada.
European Frequency Operation
Note: This equipment is intended for professional musical and similar applications, and may
be capable of operating on some frequencies not authorized in your region. Please contact
your national authority to obtain information on authorized frequencies for wireless microphone
products in your region.
Band Frequency Range EU Country Codes Note
Kª 470 –494 MHz AT, BE, BG, CY, CZ, DK, EE, FI, FR, DE,
GR, HU, IS, IE, IT, LV, LT, LU, MT, NL,
NO, PL, PT, RO, SK, SI, ES, SE, CH, UK
D** 542–566 MHz
I L* * 794–806 MHz For use in
Israel
B** 806–810 MHz For use in
Japan
G863–865 MHz AT, BE, BG, CY, CZ, DK, EE, FI, FR, DE,
GR, HU, IS, IE, IT, LV, LT, LU, MT, NL,
NO, PL, PT, RO, SK, SI, ES, SE, CH, UK
License Free
** Not for use in the EU.
ª Licensing: Note that a ministerial license to operate this equipment may be required in certain
areas. Consult your national authority for possible requirements. Licensing of Samson wireless
microphone equipment is the user’s responsibility, and licensability depends on the user’s
classification and application, and on the selected frequency.

Samson Technologies
278-B Duffy Ave
Hicksville, NY 11801
Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON
www.samsontech.com
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CONTACT OUR SUPPORT TEAM: [e-mail]
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