BASSBOSS SSP215-MKII Dual 15 Inch Powered Subwoofer Speaker User Manual

June 12, 2024
BASSBOSS

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Speaker

User’s Manual
SSP215-MKII
Dual 15”
Powered Subwoofer

SSP215-MKII Dual 15 Inch Powered Subwoofer Speaker

  • Goldilocks Combination of Depth, Articulation, and Size
  • Stealth-Subs – Tucks up into Ceilings
  • Eclipses the Performance of Most Double 18s
  • Fits Under 2-foot Stages with Room for Structure

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Description:

The BASSBOSS SSP215-MKII Low-Profile Subwoofer delivers output to frequencies lower than many double 18″ cabinets, and it does so using 25% less space than the SSP218. It’s tuned low, for use as a proper subwoofer, with long- excursion, low distortion woofers, to deliver deep and rolling lows. It also has a tight, punchy and articulate character because of the lower mass of the 15″ cones.
Ideal for the professional who needs significant bass output but has limited space. The SSP215-MKII will comfortably take the place of common double 18″ boxes without giving up output or low frequency extension to bigger boxes. The SSP215-MKII can fit under low stages, be flown in low ceilings and can be tucked in corners or between furniture where larger boxes would not fit. It’s 29.5″ deep, making it a perfect truck-pack size, especially considering up to 6 cabinets can be transported on a single rolling cart. Its largest dimension is 48″, so when stood up it can serve as a stack platform for getting the top boxes up above the audiences’ heads, just like a double-18″.
The smallest frontal dimension is only 17.5″, allowing lots of placement options. For venues, the low-profile box can fit under stages that are too low to accommodate a double-18″ subwoofer, and yet it can easily power packed dance floors with deep and punchy bass. For portable systems, the SSP215-MKII can be placed in front of stages, serve as a monitor platform, as an extension of a stage or even placed under a table. It’s size and shape make it remarkably easy to disguise in places where subwoofers need to be heard and not seen.
Providing massive output at and above 35Hz, reliably, consistently and with great fidelity. 15″ woofers are often preferred for their articulation and impact. The SSP215-MKII puts tremendous power and deep tuning behind 15″ cones to provide the best combination of tight punch and extended depth from a compact cabinet. The result is a 15″ based subwoofer with the versatility required to translate the power of dance tracks, modern country, blues, rock, R&B and hip-hop with amazing presence and heavyweight power.
The SSP215-MKII is powered by a 4000W RMS amplifier. This is a continuous rating, not a peak or burst rating. The amplifier is equipped with a comprehensive digital signal processor that eliminates the need for outboard processing. It provides high-pass, low-pass and limiting functions as well as integrating the alignment with all other BASSBOSS subs and tops. The DSP also features a Cardioid setting forwhen multiple cabinets are deployed. The amplifier is recessed into the back of the cabinet at sufficient depth to ensure adequate cooling and to protect the connectors when the cabinet is placed against a wall. The recess also protects the amp from most spills and even light rain.
Ruggedly Reliable. Each 15″ woofer has a 4″ voice coil and a power handling rating of 1500W RMS and 3000W program. The combination of extremely rugged, very high power handling, long excursion drivers, carefully optimized cabinet and port design and several effective but transparent protection systems allow this double 15″ subwoofer to provide output levels and depths that compete with bigger. bulkier and far less articulate double 18″ subwoofers. The protection systems effectively prevent thermal overload of the voice coils and minimize long term thermal compression whilst having virtually no effect on the transient response and peak output of the loudspeakers.
Versatile and Durable. Finished in extremely tough black textured weatherproof polyurea coating. with a top-mounted pole socket, the SSP215-MKII provides for mid-high loudspeakers to be mounted on a straight speaker pole above the subwoofer. The enclosures also feature four large rubber feet and corresponding recesses in their tops to facilitate interlocking the boxes with each other and with the SSP218s when stacked. The feet also interlock with the transport carts, which help to ensure that the cabinets get into and out of venues safely and unscathed. The woofers’ cones are made from a waterproof fiber matrix and are protected by a powder-coated. perforated steel grille.
Engineered to work hard and continue to work where others fail. The BASSBOSS warranty provides 6 years of coverage against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty DOES cover failed drivers, including burned voice coils, for 2 years from the date of purchase, provided outboard processing isn’t used. If a voice coil. or anything else, fails within the warranty period. replacement parts will be provided without charge. (See warranty documentation for complete details.)

SPECIFICATIONS

Acoustical

Loudspeaker Description:| Double 15” Subwoofer
Frequency Response (±3 dB):| 35-100Hz
Maximum Sustained Output:| 129 dB SPL, 1m, 2pi, half-space, (ground stacked)
Max SPL (Peak)*:| 135 dB
Nominal Dispersion (°H x °V):| 360 x 360 – Cardioid mode available with multiple boxes
Electrical
Amplification:| 4000 Watt Continuous RMS Class D Amplifier
Processing:| Integrated Comprehensive DSP for HP, LP and Limiting
Electrical Connectors:| Neutrik Powercon NAC3FCA to NAC3MPA and pass-through to NAC3MPB
Electrical Connector, Mains:| Standard US 3-pin 120V electrical plug: NEMA 5-15 aka “Edison” (Optional electrical plugs available, including L5-30 and others, on request.)
Voltage Operating Range:| 90-130V (see options for 240V operation)
Current Draw, Nominal:| 4.5A @ 120 volts (typical, 1/8 max power)
Signal Input Connector:| XLR-F
Signal Output Connector:| XLR-M pass-through only
Physical
Enclosure Construction:| 18mm Baltic Birch with rabbet and dado joints throughout. Extensively braced,  including integrated pocket handles
Enclosure Type:| Direct radiating, vented enclosure, optimally tuned for low frequency response with
high sensitivity and high power handling
Transducers:| 2 x 15 “ dia (380 mm) neodymium motor woofer with 4” (100mm) copper winding voice coil and 46mm peak to peak excursion. Waterproof fiber composite cone
Dimensions (HxWxD):| 17.25” x 48” x 29.5”
Net Weight:| 180 lbs
Shipping Weight:| 230 lbs
Exterior Finish:| Weatherproof bonded high-pressure polyurea
Grill:| Perforated, powder-coated steel
Suspension System:| 16x M10 threaded fly points
Optional
Universal Mains Power:| 90-250V auto-switching power supply
Dolly Cart:| Rolling cart with 4 locking casters
Covers:| Heavy-duty padded nylon transport covers for 1 to 5 cabinets
Online Information:| bassboss.com/ssp215

Setup Instructions:

  1. Place loudspeaker in the desired location. Ensure that it is secure and stable.

  2. Rotate the input attenuator knob counter-clockwise to the lowest setting.

  3. Connect signal from the sound source (mixer) via the XLR female input jack.

  4. Connect the XLR male output to the next available loudspeaker input via an XLR cable (if applicable.)
    This is a full-range pass-through connection and no processing is applied to this output.

  5. Connect the Neutrik PowerCON (blue) connector to the blue power inlet socket. Do not force. To insert, align the indexing tabs on the connectors, insert the plug fully into the socket and rotate clockwise until the latches catch.
    To remove, pull back on the latch tab and rotate the connector counter- clockwise to the index stop, then pull outwards.

  6. Work backwards from the speakers to the outlets, making all PowerCON connections before plugging in to mains power.

  7. Connect the electrical plug to a power source.

  8. Move the POWER switch to the ON position.

  9. Rotate the input attenuator clockwise to achieve the desired sound level.

The integrated DSP includes all the required processing for safe operation and alignment with the accompanying BASSBOSS top boxes. DO NOT USE third-party outboard processing with BASSBOSS powered loudspeakers. This will not improve, and will most likely degrade the sound quality and output capacity.
When connecting multiple BASSBOSS loudspeakers in a system, signal can be passed through from one powered loudspeaker to another using XLR cables. No processing is applied to the signal as it passes through from the input to the output connectors in each loudspeaker. Signal can be routed in any sequence because each loudspeaker receives a full-range signal and applies the necessary processing in order to operate as part of the overall system. It is recommended  to run signal to the nearest box first and patch to the next nearest box in sequence.
When connecting BASSBOSS speakers in a system including other brands of loudspeakers, it’s recommended to connect the BASSBOSS speakers first in sequence, then connect other speakers to the pass-through outputs.
This ensures that no inappropriate processing is applied to either loudspeaker.
The total power draw of one SSP215-MKII amplifier module is 15A. Only one SSP215-MKII should be connected to a 20A circuit. The typical power draw of one SSP215-MKII amplifier module is 5A. With heavy demand, the current draw can peak at 20A for brief periods but under NEMA code, a 20A breaker should sustain a peak draw of 40A for several seconds without tripping. In situations where circuits must be shared with other equipment or other brands, it’s recommended to power combinations of a BASSBOSS subwoofer and a top on a circuit and to power each subwoofer and top combination on a separate circuit to reduce the chances of overdrawing a circuit and tripping a breaker.

Operation and Controls:

There are 2 control knobs on the amplifier.

  1. GAIN
    Provides attenuation of the input from off to full output. Use appropriate gain structure to ensure the output feeding the subwoofer doesn’t reach clipping and distortion before maximum desired sound level is achieved. The amplifier has a complement of limiters and safeties to protect itself and the driver however, if audible distortion occurs, lower the level of the incoming signal.

  2. EXO ADJUST
    This control adjusts the effective crossover frequency allowing the subwoofer to be used with multiple sizes and styles of top boxes while minimizing out- of-bandwidth noise and phase shift in the crossover region. Rotating the EXO knob fully counter-clockwise (left) results in an effective crossover frequency of 80Hz. Rotating it fully clockwise (right) results in an effective crossover frequency of 100Hz.

  3. CARDIOID SWITCH
    Toggle Switch allows selection between NORMAL mode and CARDIOID mode.
    With the switch in the NORMAL (up) position, the speaker is in normal operating mode and any number of cabinets can be arrayed side-by-side facing the same way when they are all in NORMAL mode.
    When CARDIOID operation is desired, one or two cabinets must be used in NORMAL mode and at least one cabinet must be placed in CARDIOID mode and its position reversed relative to the other cabinet(s) The ideal ratio is 2  cabinets in NORMAL with one CARDIOID cabinet between them vertically or horizontally.

Reduced NORMAL   >> Audience
Level <<  CARDIOID Audience
Area NORMAL   >> Audience

The NORMAL mode cabinet(s) are used with the woofer facing towards the audience. The CARDIOID mode cabinet is rotated with the woofer away from the audience and the CARDIOID SELECT SWITCH in the CARDIOID (down)  position.
The cabinet in CARDIOID mode should have the EXO knob at the lowest level, rotated fully counter-clockwise. The EXO setting on the NORMAL mode cabinet(s) can be set to taste but all cabinets in NORMAL mode should be set the  same.
Note: When the speaker is in CARDIOID mode, the green PWR LED is disabled because it will be facing the audience. The speaker will still power up and play.
When only two cabinets are used, the cabinet in CARDIOID mode can be placed on top of the cabinet in NORMAL mode.
The cabinet in CARDIOID mode can also be placed adjacent to the NORMAL mode cabinet, with the NORMAL mode cabinets placed farther from the stage or area where reduced level is desired. When only 2 cabinets are in use, the  CARDIOID mode cabinet GAIN should be reduced by 3dB. The greatest level reduction occurs on axis with a line drawn from the center of the NORMAL cabinet’s baffle, through the center of the CARDIOID cabinet’s baffle.

Reduced <<  CARDIOID (-3dB) Audience
Level NORMAL   >> Audience
Area     A     Audience

Three-dimensional representation of cardioid output pattern. BASSBOSS
SSP215-MKII Dual 15 Inch Powered Subwoofer Speaker -
ControlsBASSBOSS
SSP215-MKII Dual 15 Inch Powered Subwoofer Speaker - Controls
2

Troubleshooting:

If, after following the above instructions for setup, you have no output from the loudspeakers:
Verify that the green power (ON) LED is lit. If not, check the following:
( Note: The ON LED is disabled when CARDIOID mode is selected. To check for power, switch to NORMAL mode to illuminate the LED)

  1. Is the power cord plugged into a live outlet?
  2. Is the Neutrik PowerCON connector rotated into the locked position?
  3. Is the Power Switch on?

If the green power LED is on, check the following:

  1. Is the signal cable connected to the input?
  2. Is the signal cable connected to an operating output at the other end?
  3. Is the signal flowing to the input? Check the integrity of the cable by using a different cable.
  4. Is the attenuator turned all the way down or at a very low level?
  5. Is the signal flowing to the input full-range? Filters in the signal may remove the operating frequencies of the loudspeaker receiving them.

Amplifier Flash Sequence Codes:

Flash Sequence Codes for Warning Indicators and Protection Modes (Seen on Amp LED)
Long flashes followed by short flashes:

  1. GROUND NOT CONNECTED: Amp still runs. Blinks 10 times on power-up then stops. Check power cord and outlet wiring.
  2. LINE HOT AND NEUTRAL REVERSED: Amp still runs. Blinks 10 times on power-up then stops. Check power cord and outlet wiring.
  3. GROUND NOT CONNECTED IN 240V MODE: Amp still runs. Check power cord and outlet wiring.
  4. GFI TRIP: Amp shuts down. Power cycle to restore.
  5. OVERHEAT SHUTDOWN: Amp shuts down. Restarts when temperature falls.
  6. THERMAL LIMITER ACTING: Gain reduced to limit heat buildup. Amp still runs.
  7. FAULT FROM GATE PCB WHILE AMP WAS WORKING: Amp shuts down. Service Required.
  8. FAULT FROM PFC: (240V option only) Amp shuts down. Service Required. (May reset with power cycle if false triggered.)
  9. GFI MALFUNCTION: Amp shuts down. Service Required.
  10. FAULT FROM GATE PCB: Amp shuts down. Service Required.
  11. BROWNOUT AT POWER-UP: Amp shuts down. Power cycle to restore. Check supply voltage.
  12. UNABLE TO START AMPLIFIER: Power Cycle to restore. Check or eliminate power conditioner.
  13. OVER-VOLTAGE: Amp turns off or won’t start. (Seen on 120V versions when connected to 240V outlets.)
  14. UNDER-VOLTAGE: Amp turns off or won’t start. (Seen when Generators are overdrawn or long extension cords are in use.)
  15. LINE LIMITER ACTING: Amp still runs. Output reduced to limit current draw.

Need more assistance? Support is available via phone or email. Email: family@bassboss.com Phone: 855-822-7770 toll free

Safety Information:

Important information regarding safety and the use of your loudspeakers:
Never stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers driven at a high level. Professional loudspeaker systems are capable of causing a sound pressure level detrimental to human health. Seemingly non- critical sound levels (from approx.  95 dB SPL) can cause hearing damage if people are exposed to it over a long period. To prevent potentially dangerous exposure to high levels of acoustic pressure, anyone who is exposed to these levels should use adequate protection  devices.
When a transducer capable of producing high sound levels is being used, it is necessary to wear ear plugs or protective earphones. See the manual technical specifications to know the maximum sound pressure level.
In order to prevent accidents when setting up the loudspeakers or loudspeaker stands, make sure they are standing on a firm surface.
Ensure that all additional hardware, fixings and fasteners used for installation or mobile deployment are of an appropriate size and load safety factor.
Pay attention to the manufacturers’ instructions and to the relevant safety guidelines.
Regularly check the loudspeaker housings and accessories for visible signs of wear and tear, and replace them when necessary.
Regularly check all load bearing bolts in the mounting devices.
Caution: Loudspeakers produce a static magnetic field even if they are not connected or are not in use. Therefore make sure when erecting and transporting loudspeakers that they are nowhere near equipment and objects which may be  impaired or damaged by an external magnetic field. A distance of 3 feet (1m) should be maintained between loudspeakers and sensitive equipment such as CRT monitors or magnetic storage media.
Never attempt to carry out any operations, modifications or repairs that are not expressly described in this manual.
Contact your dealer or BASSBOSS support if the product is not functioning properly.
BASSBOSS strongly recommends this product be installed by a qualified, professional installer who can ensure correct installation and certify that it is installed in compliance with the regulations in force.
The entire audio system must comply with the current local standards and regulations regarding electrical systems.

Important Notes:
To prevent the occurrence of noise on signal cables, use shielded cables only. Avoid routing signal cables close to equipment that produces high-intensity electromagnetic fields such as transformers, power cables and loudspeaker wires.  Do not coil excess power cable. Do not coil or wrap power cables and signal cables together.

Thanks for being BASSBOSS Family!

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Our extensive “Sound Defense” transferable warranty covers all BASSBOSS products.
STANDARD CABINET WARRANTY
BASSBOSS loudspeaker cabinet integrity, including all joinery, fasteners, handles and wood, is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of six (6) years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover  items that are intended to wear and can be replaced if worn or damaged. Examples of items not covered by this warranty are cabinet feet, grills and the finish or coating applied to the cabinet.
ENHANCED COMPONENT WARRANTY
BASSBOSS amplifiers and electronic components are covered against failures due to defects in materials and/or workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase.
NO WORRIES WOOFER WARRANTY
Transducers, including burned or open voice coils in subwoofers, are covered for two years from the date of purchase.

OUR SUPPORT
It is our goal to provide trouble-free loudspeakers. That objective begins as part of the design phase and continues on through to any service you may require. In order to be able to provide the lowest possible failure rate, the best possible  warranty service and the fastest turn-around time, we request that you contact us immediately if you notice any problem with your system, and before you attempt any repairs. We can provide the best and fastest solution if we know the  details of the problem before any repair attempts are made.
Often BASSBOSS technicians can troubleshoot problems that may arise and no repair or further service will be necessary.
Warranty support is a service, and part of that service includes helping you prevent failures and minimize repair and shipping costs. Please do not ship products without first obtaining a return authorization number by calling 855-822- 7770 toll-free or by emailing family@bassboss.com. BASSBOSS service technicians will provide assistance and instructions on shipping and packaging requirements specific to your service needs.
WARRANTY LIMITATIONS
During the warranty period, if your loudspeaker malfunctions or fails due to any defect in components or manufacturing, the failed parts will be repaired or replaced. This warranty does not extend to damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, neglect or abuse. Warranty coverage and eligibility will be determined upon inspection by BASSBOSS personnel. This warranty does not cover labor other than that authorized and performed by BASSBOSS personnel. Service will be performed upon the return of the failed unit, together with its original sales receipt or other proof of purchase, to BASSBOSS or an Authorized Service Facility.

Purchaser is responsible for all costs of shipping and handling. Cosmetic damage is specifically excluded from this warranty. This warranty is rendered void if service, repairs and/or modifications are attempted or made by anyone not  specifically authorized by BASSBOSS to perform said services. Please contact BASSBOSS or your local BASSBOSS dealer before attempting any repairs and before shipping parts in for service. This warranty gives you specific legal rights,  and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state. For more information concerning BASSBOSS service and warranty policies please contact us at 855-822-7770 toll- free.
EXPORT WARRANTY
BASSBOSS products can be purchased worldwide. In countries without local BASSBOSS distributors, product requiring service must be shipped back to the US for warranty repairs. In most cases, the entire cabinet will not need to be shipped. Generally only the individual affected parts will need to be shipped to the factory for servicing. Please contact BASSBOSS before attempting any repairs and before shipping parts in for service.
SHIPPING AND PACKAGING
Please package your returns safely and securely. BASSBOSS does not cover damage that occurs in transit.
Freight insurance is highly recommended.

FCC Compliance Notice:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference  that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
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 instruction manual, 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.

SSP215-MKII
Dual 15” Powered Subwoofer

BASSBOSS SSP215-MKII Dual 15 Inch Powered Subwoofer Speaker - Controls
3

Need more assistance?
Support is available via phone or email.
family@bassboss.com
****855-822-7770 toll free
www.bassboss.com

References

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