audioengine N22 Premium Desktop Audio Amplifier Owner’s Manual

: June 13, 2024
: audioengine

audioengine N22 Premium Desktop Audio Amplifier Owner’s Manual

Safety Instructions

Welcome to the Audio engine family and congratulations on your purchase of the N22 Amplifier!

Audio engine is dedicated to bringing you the highest-quality listening experience possible and the N22 was designed with the same attention to detail and operational simplicity as all our other products.

We wish to sincerely thank our customers and the entire Audio engine team for the inspiration to create yet another great product.

What’s in the box

N22 power amplifier
AC power cord
USB cable
Mini-jack audio cable
RCA audio cable ,
Speaker wire
Cloth product bag
Cloth cable bags
Quickstart guide

Features
Powerful but compact stereo audio amplifier High-fidelity Bluetooth® ap tX HD®+ extended wireless range High-performance headphone amplifier USB-C audio input for computers, tablets, and phones Dual analog audio inputs Variable preamp/subwoofer output Integrated stand

All cables are included.
Audio engine HD4 and P4 are our recommended passive speakers.

Safety Instructions

Please read these instructions before using this product.
Keep these instructions for future reference.
Heed all warnings on the product and in this guide.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water or moisture.
Clean only with a dry cloth and as directed by the manufacturer.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources, such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug hos two blades and a third grounding prong. The wider blade or third prong ore provided for your safety.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs,convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Use only attachments or accessories specified by the manufacturer.
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 ovoid injury from tip-over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time to prevent damage to this product.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus hos been damaged in any way such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid hos been spilled or objects hove fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

Operating Temperature Range: 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C}

CAUTION TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK.) NO USER·SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

ATTENTION: POUR REOUIRE LE RISQUE OE D£CHARGE ELECTIQUE, NE RETIREZ PAS LE COUVERCLE (OU t:ARRIERE.) IL NE SE TROUVE At: INT£RIEURAUCUNE PIECE POUVANT l:TRE R£PAREE PAR L’.USAGER. S’ADRESSER AUN RE£PARATEUR COM£°TENT.

Product Parts

Quick setup

Connect the included speaker wire from your passive speakers to the N22, observing proper wire polarity to each speaker connector.
Verify that the volume/power knob on the rear panel of the left speaker is in the OFF position by rotating the knob until it clicks off.
Connect the AC power cable to the N22 rear panel and plug the other end of the cable into a functioning power outlet.

Wireless connection

Turn power on via the front panel volume/power knob. N22 will automatically go into Bluetooth “pair mode” and the Pair button on the front panel will start flashing.
On your device (phone, tablet, computer, etc) turn on Bluetooth and go to Bluetooth preferences.
Select “Audioengine N22” to pair and connect. The Pair indicator light on the N22 front panel should now be on solid.
Play your music and adjust volume levels for N22 and your device.
To add additional devices put N22 back into pair mode by disconecting N22 from your device or by pressing the Pair button on the N22 front panel for about 3 seconds until the pair indicator light starts flashing. Repeat steps 2 & 3 to connect another device.

N22 wirelessly connects to one device at a time, however it will pair and remember up to six different devices.

Wired connection

Connect one of the included audio cables between your device and the input on the N22 rear panel.
Play music and adjust the volume on the N22 and your device to your desired listening levels. USB connection
Connect the included USB cable between your computer, phone, or tablet and the USB input on the rear panel of the N22.
If using Windows, N22 should be recognized automatically. For MacOS, under System Preferences/Sound/Output, select “Audio engine N22”.

Inputs and volume settings

Multiple devices may be connected to the speakers at the same time and the wireless and aux inputs are open and active, so it’s easy to switch between your phone, tablet, computer, TV, etc.

To adjust the volume, we recommend you first set a level on N22 and then use the volume control on your device to adjust the overall level. Volume settings are flexible and there is no right or wrong so feel free to experiment to find what works for you.

Variable audio output

N22 includes a variable full-range preamp audio output so you can connect a subwoofer, wireless adapter, or another music system. The N22 output is adjustable so the volume level can be controlled from the N22 front panel.

Need help?

Extra tips, troubleshooting, FAQs and updates to this guide can be found
on our website: audioengine.com/support-inquiry

And if you have questions or need help, please contact our customer
support team: audioengine.com/support-inquiry

Warranty information

Al l Audio engine products have a 3-year Limited Warranty on parts and labor from date of purchase. The Limited Warranty applies only to Audio engine products purchased in the United States. Your warranty is automatic, so there is no need to register. For Limited Warranty coverage elsewhere, please contact the Audio engine dealer, reseller, or distributor in your country or region.

What is covered

All defective parts or faulty workmanship.

What is not covered

The Audio engine Limited Warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, excessive moisture, lightning, power surges, other acts of nature, unauthorized product modification or repairs, or failure to follow the instructions outlined in this guide.

What we will do

We will repair or replace any defective parts, at our option, within a reasonable amount of time and free of charge any time during the warranty period. After service, we will be responsible for shipping the product back to you at our expense.

What we ask from you

You will be responsible for shipping charges to Audio engine or to an authorized dealer. We recommend you keep the original shipping materials to prevent shipping damage if service is needed. Audio engine cannot be responsible for any damages incurred during shipping due to poor packing, so please pack well and make sure to insure your shipment. How to obtain Audio engine warranty service

If you have any questions or feel you may need service, contact the reseller where you purchased your product. You can also visit our support portal at audioengine.com/support-inquiry, where you will find a searchable Knowledge Base. And if you don’t find an answer to your question you can easily contact us by opening a support ticket.

We will do everything we can to answer your questions and resolve any issues as quickly as possible.

Exclusive remedy

This Limited Warranty is fully transferable provided the current owner furnishes the proof of purchase and that the serial number on the product is intact. THE MAXIMUM LIABILITY OF AUDIOENGINE SHALL NOT EXCEED THE ACTUAL PURCHASE PRICE PAID BY YOU FOR THE PRODUCT. IN NO EVENT SHALL AUDIOENGINE BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INDIRECT DAMAGES.

Product returns and refunds

We sincerely hope you get as much enjoyment from our products as we’ve had creating them. However, should you have an issue or are not satisfied with any Audioengine product for any reason contact the reseller where you purchased or contact us directly:
[email protected]

FCC Port 15 Notice

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This equipment hos been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Closs B digital device, pursuant to Port 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits ore designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.

This equipment generates, uses, and con 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 on outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or on experienced technician for help.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for on uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body.

Information for Users on Disposal of Old Equipment [European Union]

This symbol indicates that the electrical and electronic equipment should not be disposed as general household waste at its end-of-life. Instead, the product should be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling in accordance – with your notional legislation.

By disposing of this product correctly, you will help to conserve the environment and human health that could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. For more information about collection point and recycling of this product, please contact your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product. Penalties may be applicable for incorrect disposal of this waste, in accordance with notional legislation.

[Other Countries outside the European Union]

If you wish to dispose of this product, please do so in accordance with applicable national legislation or other rules in your country for the treatment of old electrical and electronic equipment.

About Audioengi ne

Audio engine designs and builds innovative audio products with all your music in mind. Great sound, simple but elegant designs, high-quality materials and truly useful features are what Audio engine is about.

Audio engine and Audio engine N22 are trademarks of Audio engine.

The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Audio engine under license.

The apt® mark and logos are registered trademarks of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

All other product names, company names and logos mentioned may be the trademarks of their respective owners and are acknowledged by Audioengi ne

Basic Safety Instructions

Read these instructions for all components before using this product.
Keep these instructions for future reference.
Heed all warnings on the product and in the owner’s guide.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water or moisture. Do not use this product near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, or anywhere else that water or moisture are present.
Clean only with a dry cloth and as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. To ensure reliableoperation of the product and to protect it from overheating, put the product in a position and location that will not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, do notplace the product on a bed, sofa, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings. Do not put it in a built-in system, such as a bookcase or a cabinet that may keep air from flowing through its ventilation openings.
Do not install near any heat sources, such as radiators, heatregisters, stoves or other apparatus that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized orgrounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wider blade or thirdprong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit in your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments or accessories specified by the manufacturer.
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.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or whenunused for long periods of time to prevent damage to thisproduct.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damagedin 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.Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltages or other hazards. Please contact the manufacturer to be referredto an authorized service center near you.
To prevent risk of fire or electric shock, avoid over loading wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles .
Do not let objects or liquids enter the product as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
See product enclosure bottom for safety related markings.
Use Proper Power Sources. Plug the product into a proper power source, as described in the operating instructions or as marked on the product.
Avoid power lines– Use extreme care when installing an outside antenna system to keep from touching power lines or circuits, as contact with them may be fatal. Do not install external antennas near overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, nor where an antenna can fall into such circuits or power lines.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device may not cause harmful interference and this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

Introduction

Welcome to the Audio engine family and congratulations on your purchase of the Audio engine N22 Premium Desktop Audio Amplifier! The Audio engine team is dedicated to bringing you the highest quality listening experience possible and the Audio engine N22amplifier was designed with the same attention to detail and operational simplicity as other Audio engine products. As with our other past efforts we thank our customers, distributors and resellers for inspiring us to create another great Audio engine product.

Connect your iPod, computer, and speakers or headphones for a great sounding personal stereo system with N22. Or plug in an optional Audio engine wireless audio adapter and use N22 to power your home theater rear speakers.

Features

t Powerful but compact stereo audio amplifier
Cool-running 22 watts RMS per channel
inputs for iPod, iPhone, computer, TV, etc.
High-performance headphone amplifier
Variable preamp output
Gold-plated speaker connectors
High-quality analog volume control
Detachable power cord
Power-saving idle mode
Hand-finished MDF wood cabinet
Integrated vertical stand
All cables included!
Recommended speakers: Audio engine P4

What’s in the Box

t N22 amplifier with integrated stand
N22 power supply
Detachable AC power cord
1⁄8″ audio cable, 2 meters (~6.5 ft)
RCA audio cable, 1 meters (~3.28 ft)
Speaker wire (16AWG), 1.75 meters (~5.75 ft)
Cloth amplifier bag
Cloth power supply bag
Cloth cable bag
Setup Guide

Works With

Audio engine P4 passive speakers
Audio engine wireless audio adapters
Desktop computers and laptops (Mac and PC)
iPods and iPhones
Headphones
Rear channel surround speakers
Any products with mini-jack or RCA audio outputs!

Unpacking

Your Audio engine N22 amplifier was carefully tested and inspected before packaging and shipping. After unpacking please check for any damage. It is rare that any damage occurs during shipping, but if this does happen contact the shipping company immediately. We recommend that you keep the original carton and packing material.

Setup and Operation

Step 1 – Placement
Set the N22 amplifier on a solid surface and make sure there is plenty of ventilation and space around the amplifier top and bottom. The integrated stand is not designed to be removed as the N22 uses a passive convection system for heat dissipation. Keeping your N22 upright with the stand attached is important for optimal ventilation and to keep your N22 running cool.

Step 2 – Connecting the Speaker Wire
The N22 is a stereo power amplifier that will power one pair of passive speakers between 4 and 8 ohms. To connect N22 to your speakers you will need 2-conductor stranded speaker wire, which is included. The N22 uses high quality, five-way gold plated binding posts that will accept heavy gauge bare wire, banana plugs, spade lugs, or pin terminators. If you use your own speaker wire we recommend using at least 16 gauge wire and using the same length of wire from the amplifier to each speaker. It’s also a good idea to turn off your amplifier before connecting power, audio sources or speaker

Preparing the Speaker Wire

Separate the last 3” of each speaker wire conductor.
Strip ½” of insulation from the end of each wire.
Twist the exposed copper strands with your fingers 3 or 4 times so the strands stay together.

Note: As you make your connections, be sure to connect the positive (+) terminals on your amplifier to the positive (+) terminals on your speakers. Even if your wire does not have (+) or (-) markings, most 2-conductor speaker wire has printing on one side to help you differentiate between the wire pairs.

Using Bare Wire

Use your thumb and finger to unscrew the binding post connectors on the back of each speaker.
Insert each speaker wire into the holes on the side of the binding post connectors, observing proper polarity.
Retighten the binding posts with your fingers.
The stripped portion of the wire should be secured firmly in each connector.
Make sure that none of the speaker wire strands have come in contact with an adjoining terminal.
Repeat steps 1 and 5 to connect speaker wires to the amplifier.

Speaker Connections

Step 3 – Connecting the Power Supply

Be sure that the volume/power switch on the front panel is in the OFF position by rotating it counterclockwise until you hear a click.

Connect the cable with the round end from the power supply to the N22 rear panel power connector. Note that this connector is “keyed” so line up the arrow on the cable end with the arrow on the rear panel. Please do not use excessive force on the connector and use only the power supply provided with the amplifier.

Connect the AC power cable from the power supply to a power outlet and verify that the indicator light on the power supply is illuminated. We recommend using a high-quality surge suppressor and/or AC line filter on all electronics equipment.

Step 4 – Connecting Audio Sources

Using the appropriate audio cable (3.5″ mini-jack and/or RCA cable), connect your audio source (computer, iPod, etc.) to the N22 audio inputs. One of each cable type is included with your amplifier.

Step 5 – Operation

Turn on the N22 volume/power knob and set the volume control to an initial setting of about 3 o’clock. The front panel power indicator will be illuminated.

Turn on your audio input source and adjust the volume to your desired listening level.

Note that both audio inputs on the N22 are active so two audio sources may be connected to the amplifier at the same time without the need for an input switch. We recommend using the volume control on each audio source to adjust the overall system volume.

Other Features

Headphone Out – For headphone enthusiasts the N22 includes a high-performance, low-noise headphone amplifier which works well with all types of headphones. Even if you don’t connect speakers to your N22 the headphone amplifier will make your iPod or computer sound better through headphones. Keep in mind that permanent hearing loss may occur if earbuds or headphones are used at high volume so be sure to set the volume to a safe level.

Line Out – The N22 includes a variable preamp output so you can connect a subwoofer, external amplifier, or Audio engine wireless adapter and control the volume of the line-out from the front panel.

USB Power – The USB power port allows you to charge and power your iPod, iPhone, Audio engine wireless adapters or any other USB powered product through the USB connector on the rear panel. Note that this is for power only, not USB audio or data transfer.

For a complete list of product features and specifications go to:
www.audioengineusa.com

Cleaning

We don’t recommend using any solvents or cleaners on Audio engine amplifiers, cabinets, or speakers. Just wipe down with a soft, dry cloth.

Troubleshooting

Power supply indicator is not illuminated|

Check to see that the AC power cord is securely connected to the power supply and to an AC power outlet.
Check that the AC power outlet is supplying power

---|---
No Sound|

Recheck speaker wire connections from the amplifier to each speaker.
Verify that the amplifier and your source components are turned on. • Check that the AC wall outlet is on and working.
Check that the cable from the power supply is connected to the N22 and the power supply indicator is lit.
Check that the volume/power knob on the front panel is turned on and not set to minimum volume.
Check that your audio sources (iPod, computer, etc) are turned on and not set to minimum volume.
Check that the cables from your audio sources are working and are properly connected.

Sound through one speaker only|

Recheck all speaker wire connections on the speakers and the amplifier.
Check that the cables from your audio sources to the amplifier are properly connected.
If using a computer, verify that the audio output balance setting is centered.
Check the polarity of the speaker wires on the amplifier and both Speakers.
heck the EQ or sound settings on your audio source.

Lack of bass or poor imaging|

Check the polarity of the speaker wires on the amplifier and both speakers.
Check the EQ or sound settings on your audio source.

Sound Distorted|

Decrease the volume of the input audio source and increase the volume of the amplifier

Hum

Adding a new component such as your N22 amplifier can bring out hum or buzz that may not have existed before. Your first assumption may be that something is wrong with the component but this is generally caused by a “ground-loop” in your system. Consider these tips for possible solutions:

First try moving all components to the same electrical circuit or AC outlet.
If the hum or buzz is still present, power off all gear and remove the mini-jack and/or RCA audio cables to and from the N22 amplifier.
Turn the N22 back on and check for hum. If the noise is still audible try plugging the N22 power cable into a different AC outlet.
If the hum goes away while the audio cables are still disconnected, the noise is likely coming from another component in your system. Connect each component back one at a time and the one that causes the system to hum is likely the culprit.
A common ground-loop source is from cable TV or satellite cables. If the hum or buzz persists after trying the previous tips, disconnect the coaxial cable from your cable box, TV, or DVR and if the hum goes away the cable is the cause. In this case you can get a ground-loop isolator from your local electronics store. These are inexpensive and easy to connect inline with your video cable.
Sometimes something as simple as a portable heater or dehumidifier will add noise into your wall wiring that could be picked up by youraudio gear. A dimmer switch on a halogen lamp, a wireless internet router, or wireless phone near the amplifier, for example, could also all be possible culprits.

The best overall solutions are to use an AC line filter, plug the unit into a different AC circuit, or in the case of noise introduced by a wireless router, for example, move it further away from your audio gear.

Warranty

Period
All Audio engine products have a 3-year Limited Warranty on parts and labor from date of purchase. Your warranty is automatic so there is no need to register. This Limited Warranty applies only to Audio engine products purchased in the Continental United States. For Limited Warranty coverage elsewhere please contact your Audio engine dealer, reseller, or distributor.

What is covered
All defective parts or faulty workmanship.

What is not covered
The Audioengine Limited Warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, excessive moisture, lightning, power surges, other acts of nature, unauthorized product modification or repairs, or failure to follow the instructions outlined in the Setup Guide.

What we will do
We will repair or replace any defective parts, at our option, within a reasonable amount of time and free of charge any time during the warranty period. After service, we will be responsible for shipping the product back to you at our expense.

What we ask from you
You will be responsible for shipping or transportation charges directly to Audio engine or to an authorized dealer. We recommend that you keep the original shipping materials, as it is important that you package the product so that it will not be damaged during shipping. Audio engine cannot be responsible for any damages incurred during shipping due to poor packing, so please pack well and make sure to insure your shipment.

How to obtain Audioengine Warranty service
If you have any questions about your warranty coverage or you think you may need service, email the Audioengine Authorized Service Center at: [email protected] or call toll-free in the United States at: 877-853-4447. We will do everything we can to answer your questions and resolve any issues as quickly as possible.

Exclusive Remedy
This Limited Warranty is fully transferable provided that the current owner furnishes the original proof of purchase and that the serial number on the product is intact. THE MAXIMUM LIABILITY OF AUDIOENGINE SHALL NOT EXCEED THE ACTUAL PURCHASE PRICE PAID BY YOU FOR THE PRODUCT. IN NO EVENT SHALL AUDIOENGINE BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INDIRECT DAMAGES.

Product Returns and Refunds
Your satisfaction is guaranteed! Should you have a problem or are not satisfied with any Audio engine product, send us an email at:
[email protected] or call toll- free in the United States at: 877-853-4447.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or feel you may need service contact the reseller where you purchased your product or feel free to email us directly at: [email protected] or call toll- free in the United States: 877-853-4447

About Audioengine

Audio engine designs and builds innovative audio products with all your music in mind. Great sound, simple but elegant designs, high-quality materials, and truly useful features are what Audio engine is all about. We sincerely hope you get as much enjoyment from our products as we’ve had creating them! For information about our other products go to:
www.audioengineusa.com

Information for Users on Disposal of Old Equipment [European Union]

This symbol indicates that the electrical and electronic equipment should not be disposed as general household waste at its end-of-life. Instead, the product should be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling in accordance with your national legislation. By disposing of this product correctly, you will help to conserve natural resources and will help prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health that could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. For more information about collection point and recycling of this product, please contact your local municipal office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product. Penalties may be applicable for incorrect disposal of this waste, in accordance with national legislation.

[Other Countries outside the European Union]

If you wish to dispose of this product, please do so in accordance with applicable national legislation or other rules in your country for the treatment of old electrical and electronic equipment.

Audio engine, Ltd.
[email protected]
www.audioengineusa.com

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