Shure Kse1500 User manual

27A21665 (Rev. 1)

Printed in China

ELECTROSTATIC

EARPHONE SYSTEM

KSE1500

USER GUIDE

Le Guide de l’Utilisateur

Guia del Usuario

Guida dell’Utente

Руководство пользователя

Bedienungsanleitung

取扱説明書

用户指南

Manual do Usuário

사용자 안내서

Panduan Pengguna

消費者指南

Gebruikershandleiding

Electrostatic Earphone Kit

This symbol indicates that dangerous voltage constitut-

ing a risk of electric shock is present within this unit.

This symbol indicates that there are important operating

and maintenance instructions in the literature accompa-

nying this unit.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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. ONLY USE KSE earphones with KSA1500 amplifier.

8. UNPLUG this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long

periods of time.

9. PROTECT the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at

plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

10. ONLY USE attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

11. 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 objects have fallen into the apparatus, the

apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has

been dropped.

12. DO NOT expose the apparatus to dripping and splashing. DO NOT put objects

filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

13. The MAINS plug or an appliance coupler shall remain readily operable.

14. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain

or moisture.

15. Do not attempt to modify this product. Doing so could result in personal injury

and/or product failure.

16. Operate this product within its specified operating temperature range.

17. PROTECT the earphone cable from being pinched or cut.

18. DO NOT use this apparatus if the earphone cable, housing, or connector is

damaged.

WARNING: Voltages in this equipment are hazardous to life. No user-serviceable

parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. The safety certifica-

tions do not apply when the operating voltage is changed from the factory setting.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Shure Incorporated could void

your authority to operate this equipment.

WARNING: This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to

cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING FOR ALL EARPHONES!

For safe and correct use of earphones, read this manual before use. Keep the manu-

al and safety information in a convenient place for future reference.

WARNING

LISTENING TO AUDIO AT EXCESSIVE VOLUMES CAN CAUSE PERMANENT

HEARING DAMAGE. USE AS LOW A VOLUME AS POSSIBLE. Over exposure

to excessive sound levels can damage your ears resulting in permanent noise-in-

duced hearing loss (NIHL). Please use the following guidelines established by the

Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) on maximum time exposure to

sound pressure levels before hearing damage occurs.

90 dB SPL

at 8 hours

95 dB SPL

at 4 hours

100 dB SPL

at 2 hours

105 dB SPL

at 1 hour

110 dB SPL

at ½ hour

115 dB SPL

at 15 minutes

120 dB SPL

Avoid or damage may occur

WARNING

• Do not use when a failure to hear your surroundings could be dangerous, such as

while driving, or when biking, walking, or jogging where traffic is present and acci-

dents could occur.

• Keep this product and its accessories out of reach of children. Handling or use by

children may pose a risk of death or serious injury. Contains small parts and cords

that may pose risk of choking or strangulation.

• Set the volume level of the audio device to a minimum, and then after connecting

the earphones, adjust the volume gradually. Sudden exposure to loud noises could

cause hearing damage.

• Turn up the volume control only far enough to hear properly.

• Ringing in the ears may indicate that the volume level is too high. Try lowering the

volume.

• If you connect these earphones to an airplane’s sound system, listen at low levels

so that loud messages from the pilot do not cause discomfort.

• Have your hearing checked by an audiologist on a regular basis. If you experience

wax buildup, discontinue use until a medical professional has examined your ears.

• Failure to use, clean, or maintain earphone sleeves and nozzles according to man-

ufacturer’s instructions may increase the risk of sleeves detaching from the nozzle

and becoming lodged in your ear.

• Prior to inserting the earphone, always recheck the sleeve to make sure it is firmly

attached to the nozzle.

• If a sleeve becomes lodged in your ear, seek skilled medical assistance to remove

the sleeve. Damage to the ear may be caused by non-professionals attempting to

remove the sleeve.

• Do not attempt to modify this product. Doing so could result in personal injury and/

or product failure.

CAUTION

• Do not immerse in water, such as while taking a bath or washing your face, other-

wise sound deterioration or failures may result.

• Do not use while sleeping as accidents may result.

• Use a slow twisting motion to remove the earphones. Never pull on the earphone

cord.

• Stop using the earphones immediately if they are causing great discomfort, irrita-

tion, rash, discharge, or any other uncomfortable reaction.

• If you are currently receiving ear treatment, consult your physician before using this

device.

Note: Use only with the included power supply or a Shure-approved equivalent.

WARNING

• Battery packs may explode or release toxic materials. Risk of fire or burns. Do not

open, crush, modify, disassemble, heat above 140°F (60°C), or incinerate.

• Follow instructions from manufacturer

• Do not short circuit; may cause burns or catch fire

• Do not charge with products other than those specified in this user guide.

• Dispose of battery packs properly. Check with local vendor for proper disposal of

used battery packs.

• Batteries (battery pack or batteries installed) shall not be exposed to excessive heat

such as sunshine, fire or the like

Note: Battery replacement to be performed only by Shure authorized service

personnel.

Please follow your regional recycling scheme for batteries, packaging, and electronic

waste.

General Description

The Shure KSE1500 electrostatic earphones are the result of many years of research, development, and technological advancements from the Shure

engineering team. The electrostatic drivers deliver premium quality, high definition audio for the first time in an in-ear design, which provides superior

comfort and isolation from outside noise. The earphones are powered by the KSA1500: a compact, portable electrostatic amplifier with a built-in digi-

tal-to-analog converter for connecting to a micro-B USB source. A full set of furnished accessories includes a leather protective case, a micro-B USB ca-

ble, and interchangeable sound isolating sleeves for a comfortable, personalized fit. From critical monitoring to casual listening, the KSE1500 earphones

reveal the detail and nuances to satisfy the most critical ears.

KSA1500 Amplifier

LINE USB

INPUT

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௠

௡ ௢ ௣ ௤

௥

௧

௦

① Hold Switch

Locks the power button and control knob to prevent accidental

adjustment

② Power / Back Button

- Long press: turns power on and off

- Short press: returns to previous menu screen

③ Control Knob

Rotate to adjust volume and double-press to navigate through the

④ Power LED Indicator

- Red: The amplifier is off. Or amplifier is connected to power and the battery is

charging.

- Green: The amplifier is powered on. Or the amplifier is off; battery is connected

to power and fully charged.

- Off: The amplifier is off and not connected to power.

⑤ Line Audio Input

3.5 mm stereo input for connecting to analog audio sources

⑥ Earphone Output

Multi-pin input for connecting to Shure KSE1500 earphones

⑦ OLED Display

Displays system information

⑧ Input Source Selector

Selects line (analog) or micro-B USB (digital) audio input

⑨ Micro-B USB port

Connects to a computer or portable audio device to receive audio or to

the micro-B USB power adapter to charge the rechargeable battery.

Features

Portable Electrostatic Amplifier

• Digital-to-analog conversion when connected to a computer via micro-B

USB

• Supports up to 24-bit, 96 kHz digital audio

• Powered by an internal, rechargeable Lithium-ion battery

• Four band parametric equalizer, limiter, and input pad

• Factory and custom user presets

Earphones

• Low distortion characteristics

• Transparent, high-definition sound

• Excellent transient response

• Full range frequency response

• Formable wire ensuring secure cable placement

Setup

Step 1: Connect the earphones to the

amplifier

Plug into the amplifier with the amplifier powered off.

Note: Align the earphone cable connector with the red dot towards the

front of the amplifier.

LINE IN

Step 2: Connect a sound source to the

amplifier.

Set the INPUT switch to LINE for analog 3.5 mm sources or USB for digital

sources.

3.5 mm input (analog audio)

Plug the audio device into the LINE IN input and set the INPUT switch

to LINE.

To charge the battery while using an analog source, connect the

amplifier to a computer or external battery

LINE IN

Connecting to an Analog Source

USB (digital audio and power)

Use the USB cable when listening to music from a computer or

other USB-equipped device and set the INPUT switch to USB. When

connected to a computer, USB simultaneously streams digital audio

and charges the amplifier battery.

Note: You have the option to disable automatic charging in the Utilities menu.

LINE USB

INPUT

Controls and Navigation

LINE IN

① Control Knob

② Power / Previous Screen

③ Hold

Powering on / off: Long press the power button ②

Adjusting volume: Turn the control knob ①

Accessing the menu: Double-click the control knob ①

Scroll through the menu: Turn the control knob ①

Select an item: Press the control knob button ①

Return to previous screen: Press the power button ②

Lock / unlock the controls: Slide the hold switch ③ to lock and

unlock the power button and control knob. When switch displays red

background, hold is enabled.

Home Screen

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① Audio Input Source

- LINE: Analog audio (3.5 mm input)

- USB: Digital audio

② Audio Input Meter

Indicates the input level of the audio signal

③ Audio Settings

Displays settings for the input pad and equalizer

④ Battery Meter

Displays remaining battery life

⑤ Volume

Indicates the output level

Connecting to a USB Source

Step 3: Power on the amplifier

The driver automatically installs when the amplifier is first plugged into a

device. The KSE1500 should take over as the default audio device.

Note: Volume controls are disabled on Windows, Mac, and iOS. Volume

should be adjusted only by using the amp volume knob for best perfor-

mance. Ensure that volume is maximized in iTunes or the Windows Media

Player.

The following parameters are adjustable when creating an equalizer setting:

① Frequency Point or Range

Four independent frequency points used to select specific frequency ranges.

② Frequency (Hz)

The numeric value of the selected frequency.

③ Gain / Cut

Adjusts the volume (±6 dB) of the selected frequency band.

④ Bandwidth / Q

Adjusts the width of the frequency band affected by gain settings

- Middle bands: Adjusts the width of the peaking filters

- High and low bands: Adjusts the cutoff frequency of the shelving filters

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Menu Navigation

Equalizer

The 4-band parametric equalizer is used to adjust the volume of independent, adjustable frequency ranges, to precisely shape the frequency response.

Four user-defined presets can be saved in addition to four factory defined presets. The equalizer can be bypassed for a flat frequency response.

To view or edit an equalizer setting, select:

MENU > EQUALIZER

Custom Equalizer Settings

The equalizer consists of two filter types:

• Peaking filters target a specific frequency range for making gain adjustments (applies to the two middle frequency bands).

• Shelving filters adjust the gain of all frequencies above or below the selected cutoff point. In the low-shelf filter, adjustments affect all frequencies

below the selected cutoff point. In the high-shelf filter, adjustments affect all frequencies above the cutoff point.

-6

-3

20 100 1k 10k 20k

Frequency (Hz)

Low Shelf filter

High Shelf filter

Cutoff frequency

Peaking filter

Bandwidth (Q)

Gain

Equalizer Filter Properties

EQUALIZER

Displays equalizer settings. Use the control

wheel to adjust values

FLAT/BYPASS:

The equalizer is bypassed

PRESET 1 - 4:

Four adjustable 4-band equalizer presets:

low boost, vocal boost, loudness, and

de-ess

USER DEFINED 1 - 4:

Four adjustable 4-band parametric equalizer

that you can customize to your listening

preferences

AUDIO

OUTPUT GAIN:

Choice of low or high output gain

LIMITER:

Turn limiter on for ear protection from

unexpected volume spikes

INPUT PAD:

Choice of 0, -10 dB or -20 dB pads

(available in line input mode.)

SAMPLE RATE:

Available in USB input mode.

UTILITIES

Control the device parameters

DISPLAY:

Adjust screen brightness, timeout length,

and flip screen

BATTERY INFO:

Displays battery status

FACTORY RESET:

Restores all settings to the factory default

FIRMWARE:

Displays software version information and

allows for updates

HARDWARE:

Contains device information for reference

and service

DISABLE CHARGING:

Turn automatic charging on or off

Flat (Bypass)

In this mode the equalizer is bypassed for an unchanged frequency re-

sponse. When using an analog input source, bypassing the equalizer

maintains a 100% analog signal path. For digital audio sources, the equal-

ization section of the digital signal processor is simply disabled.

Firmware

Firmware is embedded software in each component that controls func-

tionality. Periodically, new versions of firmware are developed to incor-

porate additional features and enhancements. To take advantage of

design improvements, new versions of the firmware can be downloaded

and installed using the Shure Update Utility tool. Software is available for

download from http://www.shure.com/americas/products/software/utilities/

shure-update-utility.

Updating the Firmware

CAUTION! Ensure that amplifier power remains on during a firmware up-

date. Do not turn off the amplifier until the update is complete.

The Shure Update Utility will find the latest versions of firmware. You can

download the updates to your computer. Once the download is complete,

the amplifier automatically begins the firmware update, which overwrites

the existing firmware.

1. From Shure Update Utility software, click the Updates Available

button.

2. To download firmware to your computer (but not to devices), check

the box next to the updates you want and select Download.

3. Connect the amplifier to your computer with the USB cable.

4. From the amplifier menu, select UTILITIES > FIRMWARE >

ENABLE FW UPDATE

Note: ENABLE FW UPDATE must be enabled in order for the firmware update to

work.

5. Confirm that you want to download the latest firmware to the

amplifier.

Note: The battery should be charged before updating firmware. Do not

attempt to update firmware if battery percentage is less than 10%.

Lithium-ion Rechargeable Batteries

Storing Batteries

To avoid degrading battery health, keep the storage temperature range

between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).

Battery Repair and Replacement

Lithium-ion batteries have no “memory effect”, and instead experience a

more linear reduction in capacity. Contact Shure Service and Repair to

replace the batteries when the capacity is no longer acceptable.

Audio

Output Gain

MENU > AUDIO > OUTPUT GAIN

Select a high or low level output gain.

Limiter

MENU > AUDIO > LIMITER

The limiter protects your ears from unexpected volume spikes at the ear-

phone output.

Input Pad

MENU > AUDIO > INPUT PAD

The input pad feature is available when the amplifier is receiving analog

audio in line input mode. The pad attenuates the analog input signal to

prevent clipping from high output audio sources. Enable the pad when the

audio meter indicates clipping.

• Begin with the -10 dB pad. If clipping persists, use the -20 dB pad.

• Attenuate the source volume if the signal continues to clip with the -20

dB pad engaged.

Sample Rate

MENU > AUDIO > SAMPLE RATE

Sample rate information is displayed here.

Utilities

MENU > UTILITIES

Display

Adjust screen brightness and timeout length. Flip the display up or

down for visibility in either direction

Battery Info

Provides battery status: percentage charge, cycle count, temperature

Factory Reset

Restores all settings to the factory default

Firmware

Displays software version information and allows for updates

Hardware

Contains device data for reference and service

Enable / Disable Charging

When connected to a USB source, the amplifier automatically

recharges the battery. Utilize the disable charging feature when you

don't want to drain your laptop or USB source. The next time you turn

on the amplifier, it will default to enable charging.

Removing the Earphones

Grasp the body of earphone and gently twist to remove.

Note: Do not pull on cable to remove earphone.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Careful maintenance ensures a tight seal between the sleeve and nozzle,

improving sound quality and product safety.

• Keep the earphones and sleeves as clean and dry as possible.

• To clean sleeves, remove them from earphones, gently rinse in warm

water and air dry. Foam sleeves require a longer drying time. Inspect

for damage and replace if necessary. Ear sleeves must be completely

dry before reusing.

• Wipe the earphones and sleeves with mild antiseptic to avoid infections.

Do not use alcohol-based disinfectants.

• Do not expose earphones to extreme temperatures.

• Replace sleeves if they do not fit properly.

• Do not attempt to modify this product. Doing so will void the warranty

and could result in personal injury and/or product failure.

Cleaning the Earphone Nozzle

If you notice a change in sound quality, remove the sleeve and check the

nozzle of your earphone. If nozzle is blocked, clear obstruction by using

wire loop end of cleaning tool.

If no obstruction is found or if sound quality does not improve, replace the

sleeve with a new sleeve.

Cleaning Tool

Wire Loop

Caution: When cleaning, do not force any object through the earphone

nozzle! This will damage the earphone sound filter.

Warning: The cleaning tool is only to be used to clean the earphones.

Any other use, such as using the tool to clean ears or foam sleeve, could

result in injury.

Choosing a Sleeve

Select an earphone sleeve that provides the best fit and sound isolation. It

should be easy to insert, fit comfortably, and easy to remove.

Soft Flex Sleeves: In small, medium,

and large sizes. Made from pliable

rubber.

Soft Foam Sleeves: Compress the

foam sleeve between your fingers and

insert into the ear canal. Hold in place

for about ten seconds while the foam

expands.

Triple-Flange Sleeves: If desired, use

scissors to trim the stem on the sleeve.

Using Earphones

The fit of the earphone can greatly affect sound quality.

Changing Sleeves

• Twist and pull to remove the sleeve from

the nozzle.

• Slide on a new sleeve so that it completely

covers the barb and the nozzle.

Caution: If the barb or any of the nozzle is exposed, the sleeve is not

properly installed. Replace sleeves if they do not tightly grip the nozzle.

To ensure proper fit and performance, use only sleeves supplied by Shure

(unless using custom molded sleeves).

Wearing the Earphones

1. Carefully insert the earphone into the ear like an earplug, so that a

tight seal is formed.

Important: If there is a lack of low frequency response (bass), the earphone sleeve

may not be forming a proper seal. Gently push the earphone deeper into the ear ca-

nal or try using a a different sleeve.

Warning: Do not push the earphone sleeve beyond the ear canal opening.

2. Wear earphone cables over the back of the ear to keep them in place

during physical activity. Guide the cable down either the front or back of

the body, and use the cable cinch to tighten up the remaining slack.

Troubleshooting

Issue Solution

The device appears to

be working but no sound

is audible

• Check that cable connections are secure

• Ensure that input switch is set to the correct input source

Audio is distorted • Confirm the audio from the source is not distorted before entering the amplifier

• Check that cable connections are secure

• Check the amplifier input meter to make sure the amplifier input is not overloading

Amplifier does not power

• The battery may require recharging

• If the amplifier is plugged in, try a different micro-B USB port (or AC outlet if plugged

into the power adapter)

Earphones sound dull or

muffled

Follow the instructions on cleaning the earphone nozzles with the supplied cleaning tool

Battery no longer holds

charge

• Check that Disable Charging is not selected

• Contact Shure Service and Repair to arrange to have the battery replaced. There are

no user-serviceable parts.

Device Reset

In the event that the amplifier malfunctions, reboot it by pressing the control knob button and the power button simultaneously for approximately 10 sec-

onds until the device powers down.

System Requirements and Compatibility

Windows • Windows XP

• Windows 7

• Windows 8.1

Macintosh • Mac OS X 10.4 or later

Accessories

Furnished Accessories

• Square zipper pouch

• Leather amplifier case

• Fit Kit with assorted sleeves

• USB cable, Micro-B "On The Go"

• USB cable, Type A to Micro-B

• USB cable, Micro-B to Lightning

• 6-inch male to male 3.5mm cable

• 36-inch male to male 3.5mm cable

• ¼-inch (6.3mm) to ⅛-inch (3.2mm) stereo adapter

• Airline adapter

• Inline volume control

• Rubber amp security bands

Optional Accessories

• USB cable, Micro-B to 30-pin

Kit Specifications

Bias Voltage

200 V DC

Output Voltage

±200 V, max.

Output Current

≤ 1 mA

Noise Attenuation

≤ 37 dB

Operating Temperature Range

-18 to 57 °C (0 to 135 °F)

Earphone

Specifications

Transducer Type

Electrostatic

Connector Type

Lemo Connector

Frequency Response

10 Hz to 50 kHz

Maximum SPL

1 kHz at 3% THD

113 dB SPL

Net Weight

44.0 g (1.55 oz.)

KSA1500 Amplifier

Specifications

Bit Depth

16-bit / 24-bit

Sampling Rate

44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz

Signal-to-Noise Ratio

up to 107 dB A-weighted

Adjustable Gain Range

-40 dB to +60 dB

Limiter

Selectable Analog RMS Limiter

Equalizer

4-band Parametric

USB Input

USB Micro-B Receptacle

Line-In Input

3.5 mm (1/8")

Charging Requirements

USB-powered: 5 V/0.5 A to 1 A

Housing

Black Anodized Aluminum

Net Weight

182.0 g (6.42oz.)

Dimensions

111 x 59 x 21 mm H x W x D

Battery Specifications

Battery Type

Rechargeable Li-Ion

Nominal Voltage

3.6 V DC

Battery Life

Analog in (BYPASS

EQ mode)

up to 10 hours

USB Input (EQ

mode)

up to 7 hours

Battery Charging Temperature Range

0 to 45 °C (32 to 113 °F)

Specifications

Certifications

Information to the user

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 the receiver.

• Connect the equipment to 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.

Industry Canada ICES-003 Compliance Label: CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

Note: Testing is based on the use of supplied and recommended cable types. The use of other than shielded (screened) cable types may degrade EMC

performance.

This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking.

The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance

Authorized European representative:

Shure Europe GmbH

Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa

Department: EMEA Approval

Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12

75031 Eppingen, Germany

Phone: 49-7262-92 49 0

Fax: 49-7262-92 49 11 4

Email: [email protected]

Android Compatibility

The Portable Listening Amplifier is compatible with Android devices that support USB Audio Class 2.0 and Micro-B OTG (On-The-Go) connectivity. Not

all Android devices are compatible. Android is a trademark of Google Inc.

"Made for iPod," "Made for iPhone," and "Made for iPad" mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod, iPhone,

or iPad, respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this

device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod, iPhone, or iPad may affect wireless

performance.

iPad, iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano, iPod touch, and Retina are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad Air and