TW Audio B15 User manual

B15 Operating Manual

B15 Operating Manual
Introduction
Thank you for choosing a high quality product "MADE IN GERMANY" from TW AUDiO.
Our B15 loudspeaker is a true multi-talent, especially with the optional passive cross-
over PWB15. The 1× 15" fitted bass reflex system is suitable for the switchable bi-amp
mode or as a passive bass extension for our M and C series loudspeakers.
The passive crossover has a satellite output with a switchable high-pass filter. This en-
ables the B15 loudspeaker to be passively used without additional system controllers to-
gether with various 8 ohm loudspeakers with one standard amplifier.
If you lend your product to another party, inform that party of the safety-related operating
procedures and hand over this operating manual. If you therefore require additional cop-
ies of this operating manual, they can be obtained free of charge from TW AUDiO or
downloaded from: www.twaudio.de
Strictly adhere to the instructions contained in this operating manual that are marked as
follows:
Instructions in the operating manual
WARNING
This symbol in combination with the signal word "Warning" identifies a potentially haz-
ardous situation. Failure to comply with this safety instruction can lead to serious injury
or even death.
WARNING
This symbol in combination with the signal word "Warning" identifies a potentially haz-
ardous situation for persons with a pacemaker. Failure to comply with this safety instruc-
tion can lead to serious injury or even death.
CAUTION
This symbol in combination with the signal word "Caution" identifies a potentially hazard-
ous situation. Failure to comply with this safety instruction can lead to light or moderate
injury.
NOTE
This symbol in combination with the signal word "Note" identifies a potentially hazardous
situation. Failure to comply with this safety instruction can lead to product damage.
TIP
This symbol in combination with the signal word "Tip" identifies additional information or
notes that will simplify working with TW AUDiO products on the basis of practical experi-
ence.

B15 Operating Manual
Operating manual: OM-B15
Version 1.0 en, 02/2017
© by TW AUDiO 2017; all rights reserved.
All information contained in this operating manual was correct to the best of our knowl-
edge at the time of printing.
Quality warranties or assurance of suitability for a certain type of use based on the tech-
nical specifications, dimensions and weights are not granted by TW AUDiO.
TW AUDiO also shall not assume liability for any secondary damage (property damage
and/or personal injury) nor for the failure to comply with this operating manual.
TW AUDiO reserves the right to make changes that take into account the latest engi-
neering advancements.
TW AUDiO is pleased to receive suggestions for improvement and recommendations on
this operating manual. Please send any feedback you may have to the following e-mail
address.
[email protected]
TW AUDiO GmbH
Osterholzallee 140-2
71636 Ludwigsburg, Germany
Telephone: +49 71 41 - 48 89 89 0
Telefax: +49 (0) 71 41 - 48 89 89 99
Notes on the products
Read manual
before use!
Before setting up the device, read the operating manual carefully and keep this docu-
ment in a safe place together with the B15 loudspeaker.
General information

B15 Operating Manual
Contents
Safety | Intended use .....................................................................................................1
Overview ........................................................................................................................3
Components ....................................................................................................................... 3
Variants .............................................................................................................................. 4
Operation modes ................................................................................................................4
Technical data ................................................................................................................7
Data sheet .......................................................................................................................... 7
Wiring diagram ................................................................................................................... 8
Setting up .......................................................................................................................9
Setup .................................................................................................................................. 9
Making cable connections .................................................................................................. 9
Operation .......................................................................................................................... 10
Transport and storage ................................................................................................11
CE Conformity Declaration .........................................................................................12
Disposal ........................................................................................................................13

1
B15 Operating Manual
1. Safety | Intended use
Please adhere to the following safety instructions to avoid risks when operating the loud-
speakers.
The B15 loudspeaker was developed for use in professional sound systems. The loud-
speaker may only be used by trained and qualified personnel.
Note the operation modes described in this operating manual.
Other uses are not permissible.
TW AUDiO GmbH shall not be held liable for any damage that ensues from unintended
use.
WARNING
Loudspeakers generate an electromagnetic field. Persons with pacemakers are not per-
mitted to remain in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers as the electromagnetic fields
can cause pacemakers to malfunction.
WARNING
When working with heavy loads over 20 kg [44,09 lbs], use suitable aids (dollies, hoist-
ing slings, etc.). Multiple people may be required depending on the situation.
Ensure that the units are in a stable position and are firmly attached. A falling loud-
speaker can result in serious personal injury and property damage.
When using and assembling TW AUDiO loudspeakers, only use materials specified by
TW AUDiO. These tasks must be performed by qualified personnel. Adhere to the appli-
cable safety regulations.
NOTE
When using the loudspeakers, ensure that they are not exposed to the following ambient
conditions:
• Direct sunlight
• Moisture
• Jolting
•Dust
WARNING
Keep away from the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers that are operated at high sound
pressure levels. These loudspeaker systems are capable of endangering your health.
Sound levels beginning as low as approx. 90 dB SPL can lead to long-term hearing im-
pairment.
NOTE
Avoid:
• Feedback
• Distorted signals (clipping)
• Peaks that result when devices are switched on or hot plugged and unplugged.
These signals can lead to loudspeaker overload..

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B15 Operating Manual
Note that TW AUDiO does not provide a warranty for damage that can be attributed to
this type of overload and therefore cannot be held liable for any secondary damage.
WARNING
Ensure that the loudspeaker is not exposed to permanent thermal overloads. This may
cause a fire and result in serious property damage and personal injury.
NOTE
A permanent, magnetic field is present in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers. Ensure
that objects which react sensitively to magnetic fields are not located in the immediate
vicinity of the loudspeaker. In particular, this applies to magnetic data carriers, EC cards
and CRT displays. A distance of approx. one meter is sufficient to avoid damage.
NOTE
Check loudspeakers and accessory parts regularly for visible wear. This is essential to
ensure fault-free operation on a permanent basis. Replace worn parts promptly. Spare
parts can be obtained from TW AUDiO.

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B15 Operating Manual
2. Overview
Figure 2.1 - Overview
1. 15" cone driver
2. Dolly latch base to attach the TW AUDiO B15 front dolly
3. Cabinet flange M20 for attaching a distance rod
4. Ergonomic carrying handle (top and bottom)
5. Milled recess for rubber feet for safely stacking loudspeakers
6. 15 mm multiplex housing – Warnex texture paint surface finish
7. Rubber feet (4 units)
8. Passive crossover PWB15
9. Type label
10. Standard connection panel
2.1 Components
1
9
8
6
23 4 5
7
B15A B15P
10

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B15 Operating Manual
The B15 loudspeaker comes in two different variants. These variants are the
B15A (ACTIVE model) and B15P (PASSIVE model).
2.2.1. B15A/B15P models
The standard model of the B15 loudspeaker is the B15A variant, which can only be op-
erated in the "ACTIVE" operating mode. It is supplied with a standard connection panel.
The separation occurs in the DSP of the amplifier.
The B15P model can also be operated in the "PASSIVE 1" and "PASSIVE 2" modes.
This permits the connection of an additional loudspeaker on the high-pass output or the
link output when operating with only one amplifier channel. The installed passive cross-
over (pos. 8 “Figure 2.1 - Overview” on page 3) has two selector switches, which are de-
scribed in the following section.
The top selector switch is used to activate the high-pass output. The bottom selector
switch is used to activate the passive crossover and changes the pin assignment of the
connection sockets.
In operation mode 1 "ACTIVE", the internal passive crossover is switched out of the sig-
nal path, and the separation of the loudspeakers must take place in the DSP of the am-
plifier. The pin connection of the B15 loudspeaker is switched to pin 2 +/-.
Figure 2.3.1 - Wiring diagram B15A
2.2 Variants
2.3 Operation modes
WARNING
Switch the top switch to OFF.
Switch the bottom switch to ACTIVE mode.
Note that nothing is permitted to be plugged into the connector of the high-pass output.
HP-output OFF
ACTIVE mode
input is pin 2 +/-
input
and
link output
Never connect this output to
an amplifier. Risk of damage!
High pass output
to drive 8 ohm load
MODE 1
ACTIVE
(BI-AMPED)
pin 1 TOP speaker
pin 2 B15 subwoofer
2 amplifier channels / 4-wire speaker cable
required.
INPUT
OUTPUT to speaker

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B15 Operating Manual
In operation mode 2 "PASSIVE 1", the B15 loudspeaker and other loudspeakers are op-
erated on the "link output" output on pin 1 +/-.
Figure 2.3.2 - Wiring diagram B15P
WARNING
Switch the top switch to OFF.
Switch the bottom switch to PASSIVE mode.
Note that nothing is permitted to be plugged into the connector of the high-pass output.
HP-output OFF
input
and
link output
Never connect this output to
an amplifier. Risk of damage!
High pass output
to drive 8 ohm load
PASSIVE mode
input is pin 1 +/-
Be sure HP-output switcher is in OFF position.
Keeping ON position without any lood may couse a damage.
MODE 2
PASSIVE 1
(M-SYS-ONE)
pin 1 B15+M15
pin 2 free
1 amplifier channel is
required
INPUT
OUTPUT to speaker
!
NOTE
Note that the total impedance may vary depending on the connected loudspeaker. See
“Setup” on page 9.

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B15 Operating Manual
In operation mode 3 "PASSIVE 2", the B15 loudspeaker is operated with an
M8 loudspeaker on the "high-pass output". The separation of the two loudspeakers is
performed via the internal passive crossover. The pin connection of the
B15 loudspeaker is switched to pin 1 +/-.
Figure 2.3.3 - Wiring diagram B15P
WARNING
Switch the top switch to ON.
Switch the bottom switch to PASSIVE mode.
Connect the M8 loudspeaker to the high-pass output.
input
and
link output
Never connect this output to
an amplifier. Risk of damage!
High pass output
to drive 8 ohm load
ON HP-output
PASSIVE mode
input is pin 1 +/-
MODE 3
PASSIVE 2
(M-SYS-TWO)
pin 1 B15+M8
pin 2 free
1 amplifier channel is
required.
INPUT
OUTPUT to M8
NOTE
Never change the operation mode while the loudspeaker is in operation. This may dam-
age the connected loudspeakers.
Operation mode 1 "ACTIVE" additionally requires the correct preset at the amplifier.

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B15 Operating Manual
3. Technical data
3.1 Data sheet
Variant
B15A B15P
Components 1x 15" LF
Frequency response 40 – 1500Hz
Power handling, program/
peak 1200/2400 W ACTIVE 1200/2400 W
PASSIVE 1
1200/2400 W
PASSIVE 2
1200/2400 W
Impedance 4Ω4Ω4Ω4Ω
Max. SPL/1 m 127 dB
Dimensions (h × w × d) 506 × 440 × 560 mm [19.92 × 17.32 × 22.05 in]
Weight 22.1 kg [48.7 lbs] 24.2 kg [53.4 lbs]
Finish Warnex texture paint

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B15 Operating Manual
Version: B15A
Figure 3.2 - Wiring diagram B15A
Version: B15P
Figure 3.3 - Wiring diagram B15P
3.2 Wiring diagram
4 OHM
+
--
rear connectors
parallel
PIN 1+
PIN 1–
PIN 2+
PIN 2–
PIN 1+
PIN 1–
PIN 2+
PIN 2–
15"
input
and
link output
Never connect this output to
an amplifier. Risk of damage!
High pass output
to drive 8 ohm load
ON HP-output
PASSIVE mode
input is pin 1 +/-
HP-output OFF
ACTIVE mode
input is pin 2 +/-
4 OHM
2,5 OHM
(with M8)
+
--
PIN 1+
PIN 1–
PIN 1+
PIN 1–
PIN 2+
PIN 2–
PIN 1+
PIN 1–
PIN 2+
PIN 2–
15"
parallel
HP
LP 1st order
LP 2nd order
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
HP-output ON / OFF

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B15 Operating Manual
4. Setting up
The B15 loudspeaker is designed for standing operation.
To connect the loudspeaker with an amplifier rack from TW AUDiO, proceed as follows.
The correct presets need to be selected for the cable connections.
4.1 Setup
WARNING
Ensure that the loudspeakers are securely attached to prevent personal injury and prop-
erty damage. Secure stacked loudspeakers properly so that they can be tipped by 10° in
any direction without toppling.
4.2 Making cable connections
NOTE
Ensure that the cable cross section is sufficiently large (at least 1.5 mm²) to avoid power
losses. TW AUDiO recommends using the loudspeaker cables available from
TW AUDiO.
When connecting the cables to the loudspeaker, ensure that the polarity (+/-) and pin as-
signment (1/2) are correct. Incorrect connection results in a significant change in the
loudspeaker sound characteristics and may damage the compression driver.
The pin connections of the B15 loudspeaker can be found in section 3.2 “Wiring dia-
gram” on page 8.
The speakON®NL4 connectors on the B15 loudspeaker can be used to link multiple
loudspeakers on a single amplifier output. Note that parallel connection reduces the total
impedance (Ω) seen by the amplifier.
The total impedance of loudspeakers connected in parallel must not drop below the min-
imum operating impedance of the amplifier.

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B15 Operating Manual
The B15A loudspeaker can only be operated with a DSP controller. TW AUDiO recom-
mends operating the B15P loudspeaker on a DSP controller. TW AUDiO only recom-
mends using presets developed by TW AUDiO. The TW AUDiO system racks are ideal
for this purpose.
4.3 Operation
NOTE
Ensure that the right preset was selected before connecting the loudspeaker with the
amplifier.
Operating with an incorrect preset can damage parts of the loudspeaker.
NOTE
Ensure that the amplifier is properly sized according to requirements. Undersizing or
oversizing may damage the loudspeaker.
Please note the technical data in section 3.1 “Data sheet” on page 7.

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B15 Operating Manual
5. Transport and storage
NOTE
Because the B15 loudspeaker weighs over 20 kg [44,09 lbs], two people are needed to
move and transport the unit.
To transport the unit with a single person, TW AUDiO recommends using the FDB15
front dolly.
When transporting and storing the unit, it is important to ensure that the finish and front
grill of the loudspeaker are not damaged. Moisture can penetrate through exposed wood
surfaces and cause the wood to swell. A bent or broken front grill will no longer ade-
quately protect the sensitive speaker membranes.
In addition, appreciable dust deposits may considerably impair the functionality of a
loudspeaker membrane. For this reason, the loudspeakers should be transported and
stored in a safe, careful, dry and largely dust-free manner.
The following accessory parts for transport and storage are available from TW AUDiO:
• FDB15 (front dolly)
• CoverB15 (protective cover)
The original packaging is unsuitable as permanent storage and transport packaging.

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B15 Operating Manual
6. CE Conformity Declaration
Copy and translation of the original CE Conformity Declaration:
We hereby declare that the below-referenced components by virtue of their design and
construction, and in the configuration placed on the market by us, satisfy the safety and
health requirements of the applicable EC directives. This declaration becomes invalid in
case of modifications that have not been approved by us.
This declaration applies to the following components:
• B15A
• B15P
It also applies to all model variants based on these, provided that they correspond to the
original factory models and have not been technically modified in any way.
Applicable directives:
• 2001/95/EC
• 2011/65/EU
Applicable national standards and technical specifications:
• DIN 18800
• DIN 4113
• DIN EN ISO 14121-1
• BGV C1/BGI 810-3
• EN 50581:2012
Ludwigsburg, 01 January 2008 ___________________________
Tobias Wüstner

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B15 Operating Manual
7. Disposal
It is prohibited to dispose of used electrical equipment with household refuse
All products of TW AUDiO GmbH are so-called B2B products. This means that they are
sold by a commercial business to a commercial business. TW AUDiO products that bear
the trash can symbol shown here are only permitted to be disposed of by TW AUDiO.
The loudspeaker owner is legally responsible for the disposal of used devices that do
not bear this symbol. This pertains to all products delivered prior to 29 March 2010. Nev-
ertheless, TW AUDiO will also be happy to assist you in this case.
If you have any questions regarding the disposal of used devices, please contact us at
the following telephone number:
+49 (0) 71 41 - 48 89 89 0
Thus, TW AUDiO is in strict compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equip-
ment Directive (2012/19/EU) for the protection of our environment.
TW AUDiO is registered under the following WEEE reg. no. with the German National
Register EAR as a B2B manufacturer and distributor of electrical devices:
DE54488702
In countries outside of the European Union, follow the local regulations.

TW AUDiO GmbH
Osterholzallee 140-2
71636 Ludwigsburg, Germany
Germany
P: + 49 (0) 71 41-48 89 89 0
F: + 49 (0) 71 41-48 89 89 99
E: [email protected]
W: www.twaudio.de