Tivoli Audio PAL Portable Audio Laboratory User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
For more information about other exciting audio products by Tivoli Audio,
please visit our web sites or contact us directly:
TivoliAudio
One Broadway, Suite 600
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142
Tel: [phone]
www.tivoliaudio.com
www.tivolidesign.com
About the battery pack:
The PAL uses a sealed pack of 6 high capacity Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) cells. Unlike Nickel
Cadmium (NiCd) batteries, NiMH batteries have no memory effect, provide a longer operating time, and
do not use toxic metals. The front panel green LED serves both as a power indicator and battery power
and charge status indicator thanks to the PAL’s innovative Power Management System.
- Fast Charge Mode: With the PALturned Off but plugged in, from full discharge, the batteries will be
completely charged within approximately 3.5 hours. During this period, the green LED will blink with a
long off/short on cycle. The LED will turn off when the batteries are fully charged. Once the PAL has
been fully charged using the Fast Charge Mode, do not unplug it and then immediately plug it back in
again, as this will restart the Fast Charge Mode even though the batteries are fully charged. Doing this
repeatedly will damage the batteries. See also “Before You Begin”.
- Trickle Charge Mode: With the PAL On and plugged in, the batteries will be completely charged in
approximately 24 hours. During this period, the LED will remain On continuously.
- Low Battery: With the PAL turned On but not plugged in, as the batteries become discharged, the
Power Management System will cause the green power indicator LED to blink with a short off/long on
cycle, indicating the batteries are in need of being recharged. The blinking will grow faster as the batter-
ies get closer to discharge until the PALshuts itself off to protect the batteries. The remaining playback
time from the moment the blinking begins until the PAL shuts off is estimated between 20 minutes and
several hours. It is difficult to be more precise due to many factors including how long and how loud the
radio is played, and the remaining charge left in the batteries. For instance, the PAL will likely play
longer off of the batteries at a low volume than at higher volume levels. As you use your PAL, you will
develop a better idea of how much playback time you have before recharging is necessary.
If the PAL is turned on to FM or AM and the power indicator is off, then the batteries require recharging.
However, it is normal for the radio to play for a brief period if turned on after the LED has gone out.
If the PALis to be used away from an AC or other power source for an extended period of time, it is wise
to “top-off” the charge before use, especially if the LED is blinking.
To do this, follow the procedure described under “Fast Charge Mode”.
Note that the power indicator LED will blink with a different cycle during Fast Charge Mode while the
batteries are charging. Because the PAL’s NiMH batteries have no memory, it is not necessary to wait
until the batteries are exhausted before recharging, although recharging from complete discharge will
also do no harm.
Leaving he PALplugged in, even when not in use, ensures the batteries will be charged when you need
them. If the PAL is not plugged in, the batteries will self-discharge as a safety measure. There is no
harm in continuously operating the PALwith the power supply.
Note: It may take up to 4 charge/discharge cycles before the batteries are operating at full capacity
when new or left unused for several weeks.
TM
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Replacing the battery pack:
When it comes time to replace the battery pack, lift the FM antenna up, remove the two
screws that hold the battery cover in place with a small Philips-head screwdriver. Lift the
battery cover off, disconnect the lead from the battery pack and replace the batteries, mak-
ing sure to correctly connect the leads. Replace the battery cover by inserting the bottom lip first, then
screwing the cover back on. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire or personal injury, use an exact
replacement MA-1 battery pack, available through Tivoli Audio or its authorized dealers, and dispose of
the spent battery pack according to your state/country’s regulations.
Handling the PAL:
The PAL is weather resistant, but it is not weather proof. It should not be immersed in water or held
under running water. It also should not be exposed to extreme temperatures.
The PAL is designed to be portable, but it is not indestructible. Do not drop it or subject it to strong
impacts.
Always grip the PAL using the side indentations.
The PAL’s non-slip, weather resistant coating is durable, but it is not impervious to scratches.
The PAL’s speaker is magnetically shielded, permitting use near a computer monitor or a television set.
It is normal for the power supply to become warm during use.
Exposing the PAL to extended periods of direct sunlight or heat could damage the rubber coating.
Cleaning:
The PAL’s exterior rubber coating is designed to provide a non-slip grip and be water resistant.
However, some common chemicals may strip the coating. If something is spilled on the cabinet, wash it
off as soon as possible to prevent possible damage. Such damage resulting from chemicals or cleaning
is not covered under the factory warranty. To clean the PAL, use water and a soft cloth and do not rub
hard. Use a mild soap only when necessary.
Headphones:
Avoid using headphones (not included) at high volume levels to prevent possible hearing damage. Do
not wear headphones while operating a motor vehicle.
Warranty:
Tivoli Audio manufactures its products to very high standards and we are confident our products will
perform well. Accordingly, we warranty the Portable Audio Laboratory against manufacturing defects
in material and workmanship to the original owner, for a period of one year from the original date of
purchase.
This warranty does not extend to damage caused by improper use/installation, faulty ancillary equip-
ment, modifications, unauthorized repair, shipping damage or loss, abuse, accidents, use on improper
voltage/current, lightning or other acts of God, normal wear and tear, commercial use, or purchases from
unauthorized dealers. Proof of purchase as evidence the unit was purchased from an authorized dealer
within the warranty period may be required for warranty service. Should service be necessary, DO NOT
return the product without first contacting your dealer or Tivoli Audio. This warranty is non-transferable.
With the exception of replacing the batteries, please resist the temptation to take apart your radio.
There are no user serviceable parts, and any attempt at modifying or repairing your radio will void the
warranty.
Tivoli Audio will not pay for loss of time, inconvenience, loss of use of your product, or damaged caused
by this product.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to
state. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties or the exclusion of consequential dam-
ages, therefore, these restrictions may not apply to you.
If you purchased an extended warranty from your dealer and service is required after the manufacturer’s
warranty has expired, you should contact your dealer to obtain service.
Please complete and return the enclosed card within 30 days of purchase to register your product for
warranty coverage, or you may register on-line at: www.tivoliaudio.com
Specifications:
Model: Portable Audio Laboratory (PAL)™
Type: Portable, weather resistant AM/FM radio
Driver: 1 x 2.5" treated, magnetically shielded, full range driver
Power: 12VDC nominal - 15VDC maximum, 500mA
Battery Pack: Model MA-1, NiMH, 7.2V, 1200mAh
Battery Current: 500mA
AC Adaptor: Model PAL-PS:
UL: 120V-60Hz, 18W, 12VDC, 500mA, 6VA
CE: 230V-50Hz, 15W, 12VDC, 500mA, 6VA
Dimensions: 3 11/16"W x 6 1/4"H x 3 7/8"D
Weight: 2lbs
All specifications subject to change without notice.
Tivoli Audio reserves the right to make product changes without notice.
Tivoli Audio, the Tivoli Audio logo, PAL and The Henry Kloss Portable Audio Laboratory are trademarks
of Tivoli Audio, LLC.
P ortable A udio
L aboratory (PAL)
Guide to features:
Rear
1. FM ANTENNA: When listening to FM, adjust this telescoping antenna and position it for best recep-
tion. In strong FM signal locations, reducing the antenna’s length may provide better reception. When
the unit is not in use or when listening to AM, keep the antenna retracted to protect it. This antenna
has no affect on AM reception. For AM, rotate the PAL itself to align the internal antenna for improved
reception.
2. AC/DC INPUT: Use this input to operate the PAL using its included PAL-PS Tivoli Audio AC power
supply or an optional 12VDC nominal, 500mA fused source. Should the power supply be damaged or
misplaced, use only a like replacement. The connector is a 5.5mm/2.1mm center positive connector.
Keep the rubber plug inserted when this input is not in use.
3. HEADPHONE OUTPUT: Connect a headset to this stereo output for private listening. The headphone
volume will be controlled by the PAL’s volume knob. Connecting a pair of headphones will mute the
PAL’s main speaker. This jack accepts a 1/8" stereo male mini plug. You may also record from the PAL
or use it as a high quality stereo tuner by using this output. Keep the rubber plug inserted when this out-
put is not in use.
4. AUXILIARY INPUT: To hear audio from another device (such as a portable CD or MP3 player)
through the PAL’s main speaker, connect the device’s audio output to this input. This jack accepts a 1/8"
stereo male mini plug. Note that you may need to adjust the volume level differently for an auxiliary
device than the level normally used for radio listening. Keep the rubber plug inserted when this input is
not in use.
5. BATTERY COMPARTMENT: Stores the Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery pack. Do not load any other
type of batteries in the compartment. See “Replacing the battery pack.”

CAUTION
RISK OF
ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE,
NE PAS OUVRIR
PRECAUCION
RIESGO DE CHOQUE ELECTRICO
NO ABRIR
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 symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to consti-
tute a risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence
of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ INSTRUCTIONS
All the safety and operating instructions should be read before operating this product.
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS
The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
HEED WARNINGS
All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
All operating and use instructions should be followed.
CLEANING
Unplug the product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth
for cleaning.
ATTACHMENTS
Do not use attachments not recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.
WATER AND MOISTURE
Do not immerse this product in water.
ACCESSORIES
Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to
a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table recommended by the
manufacturer, or sold with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should
use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.
LIGHTNING
For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time,
unplug it from the wall outlet. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.
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. For products intended to operate from
battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
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. Pay particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.
OVERLOADING
Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric
shock.
OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY
Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts
which could result in fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
SERVICING
Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other
hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE
Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
b. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.
c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.
e. If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this indicates a need for service.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer
or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other haz-
ards.
SAFETY CHECK
Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that
the product is in proper operating condition.
HEAT
The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other products (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
NOTIFICATION
This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to pro-
vide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This product generates, uses, and can radi-
ate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
with 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 antennas.
●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.
PAL INSTRUCTIONS
Congratulations on your purchase of a truly unique entertainment product. We believe the rechargeable
and weather resistant Portable Audio Laboratory (PAL) is one of the finest portable audio products on
the market. It is sure to enhance your radio listening experience at home or on the go. Legendary audio
inventor Henry Kloss dedicated over half of his life introducing people to the joy of music through his
finely crafted, hi-fidelity products. From his classic AR speakers of the 50’s, to the Model 8 table radio of
the 60’s, to the current Tivoli Audio radios, Henry consistently impressed consumers and critics alike with
the quality and value of his offerings.
In order to take full advantage of what your new Portable Audio Laboratory is capable of, please take a
moment to fully read this owner’s manual and get to know your PAL. If you have any questions, do not
hesitate to contact your dealer or Tivoli Audio directly. It is a good idea to save the carton and original
packing should you ever need to ship your radio, as shipping damage is not covered by the factory
warranty.
On behalf of all of us, thank you for choosing Tivoli Audio, and enjoy your new PAL!
About Tivoli Audio:
Tivoli Audio was started by Tom DeVesto with the goal of bringing simple to use, high-quality audio prod-
ucts to the consumer at reasonable prices. His long professional association with Henry Kloss includes
co-founding Cambridge SoundWorks*. As the CEO and head of research and development at his former
company, Tom was responsible for many of the best-selling home entertainment and multi-media prod-
ucts on the market today. He also held senior management positions in product development for both
Advent and Kloss Video. Tom is uniquely qualified to introduce Henry Kloss’designs.
Portable Audio Laboratory designer Henry Kloss (1929-2002) began his long love affair with audio back
in the early 1950’s when, as a student at M.I.T., he began building speaker enclosures for fellow stu-
dents who wanted to exploit the sound of live FM broadcasts of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. With
encouragement from the M.I.T. lab staff and Major Edwin Armstrong, the inventor of FM, he co-founded
Acoustic Research in 1952. Here, Henry helped develop the revolutionary AR1 acoustic suspension
loudspeaker which forever changed the way audio was reproduced. In 1957 he went on to co-found KLH
where he introduced audio enthusiasts to the Model Six loudspeaker, Model Eight FM table radio, and
Model 11 portable phonograph. Ten years later he founded Advent where, along with great sounding
speakers, he produced one of the first projection TVs (which he won an Emmy for) and one of the first
consumer cassette decks with Dolby B** noise reduction. Kloss Video entered the picture in 1977. After
Kloss Video, Henry co-founded Cambridge SoundWorks in 1988 along with long time associate Tom
DeVesto, bringing factory-direct savings in hi-fi and producing the number-one selling multi-media speak-
ers. In 2000, at the age of 70, Henry emerged from retirement to once again team-up with DeVesto to
produce the critically acclaimed Model One mono table radio.
*Cambridge SoundWorks is a registered trademark of Creative Labs, Singapore.
**Dolby B is a registered trademark of Dolby Labs, Inc.
Packed with your PAL you should find:
- 1 AC power supply
- 1 Nickel Metal Hydride battery pack (installed)
- 1 warranty registration card
Please contact your dealer or Tivoli Audio if any of these items are missing.
Tivoli Audio
One Broadway, Suite 600
Cambridge, MA 02142
1.877.297.9479
www.tivoliaudio.com
Before you begin:
For your safety, the PAL is shipped from the factory with discharged
batteries. However, it is normal if the PAL plays straight out of the
box. With the unit off, connect the power supply to the PAL and plug
it into a wall outlet to charge the batteries. (See “Fast Charge Mode”).
Like many rechargeable devices, there may be a delay before the
LED starts to blink when the PAL is brand new and first plugged in,
or when left unused for several weeks. This is a feature of the Power
Management System designed to protect the batteries from damage.
Should you experience this, you may “jump start” the “ Fast Charge
Mode” by playing the PAL (while plugged in) for approximately 2-3
hours and then turning it off (but still plugged in). The green LED
should begin to flash at that time indicating Fast Charge Mode is
active. In order to complete the charge cycle, leave the PAL plugged
in for an additional 4-5 hours even if the LED has stopped blinking.
Bear in mind it may take up to 4 charge/discharge cycles before the
batteries are operating at full capacity when the PAL is new or has
been unused for several weeks.
Leaving the PAL plugged in even when not in use ensures the batter-
ies will be charged when you need it. If the PAL is not plugged in, the
batteries will self-discharge as a safety measure. There is also no
harm in playing the PAL continuously while plugged in.
Guide to features:
Front
1. TUNING DIAL: Turn the analog dial to the right or to the left to change the FM and AM frequency
range. The 5:1 tuning gear ratio provides easy, accurate tuning. The FM tuner’s Automatic Frequency
Control (AFC) locks on to the center of the station for lowest distortion and best reception.
2. POWER INDICATOR: Indicates when the unit is on as well as the charging mode and battery status.
See the section marked “About the battery pack”.
3. SOURCE KNOB: Turn the knob 1 click up to select the FM band or 2 clicks up to select the AM
band.
4. VOLUME: Turn the volume knob up to increase the volume or down to decrease the volume of the
PAL’s speaker. Since the PALis portable, please be considerate of others around you when increasing
the volume level. This knob will also control the level of headphones (not included) when connected.