VSSL A.1x Channel Audio Streaming Amplifier User Manual

VSSL A.1x Channel Audio Streaming Amplifier

Introduction

WELCOME TO VSSL

VSSL is the music system you’ve always wanted.

• Out of sight.
• No other apps.
• Just the music you love.
• Controlled by voice.

VSSL strives to deliver the best music listening experience based on your music ecosystem. By incorporating Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Amazon, and Spotify Connect, you can choose your favorite music app, device, and ecosystem.

Product Overview

ACCESSORIES

Specification

Getting Started

PREP YOUR NETWORK

New Installation Steps

• Do not install your VSSL before checking your network.
• Analyze your existing network topology.
• Login to your network equipment.
• Make adjustments according to network settings suggestions.
• Reboot your networking equipment.

Recommendations

• Recommended – Download speeds of at least 1Mbps
• Not recommended – Satellite internet, 3G/4G/LTE hotspot or cellular INTERNET
• Not supported – Guest WiFi networks, shared networks

Network Topology Best Practices

• In homes with access points, it is recommended that an A controller be present and that all access points be consolidated to a single switch. The VSSL should be installed within that same switch.
• In homes with a switch, ensure the switch is placed downstream from the router.
• In homes with 2 routers (e.g. modem/router combo unit from ISP and 3rd party router) ensure the ISP router is placed in “Bridge Mode” in order to avoid a Double NAT.
• Do not connect your VSSL via ethernet cable to access points, mesh points, or network extenders.
• Ensure that the ethernet (patch) cable is fully functional. Note: ethernet cables commonly degrade over time.

General Router Settings

• To configure your router, it’s important to consult the manual that corresponds with your exact router model.
• Ensure the router has the most up-to-date firmware installed.
• Avoid Double NAT when using 3rd party router/mesh system by placing the ISP router in “Bridge Mode” (e.g., Google, eero).
• Ensure that the ethernet (patch) cable is fully functional. Note: ethernet cables commonly degrade over time.
• Separate the 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi bands and ensure that they maintain different SSID’s.
• Enable “UPP” (Universal Plug and Play).
• When using access points, disable “AP Isolation” or “Client Isolation”.
• Enable “Multicasting” (multicast terminology differs between manufacturers).
• Disable “IPv6” and only use “IPv4”.
• Enable “IGMP” (Internet Group Management Protocol).
• When using Apple devices, enable “Bonjour” or “ZeroConf Discovery”.
• Ensure managed switches and access point controllers follow the same network topography suggestions as detailed above.
• See more router-specific suggestions at vssl.com/support

PLAN YOUR AUDIO SYSTEM
Your A.1x has the versatility to connect to your high-speed network either via ethernet cable or wirelessly. Choose which setup works best for your home. Plan how each device within your audio system will be connected and where they will be located within your home. Ensure that you follow all speaker, subwoofer and external device manufacturers’ guidelines for wiring and powering. As your A.lx is stable down to 4 ohms, ensure the speaker impedance load for each channel does not fall below 4 ohms.

INSTALLATION OPTIONS

• Tabletop – Ensure the location has adequate ventilation and at least 0.5″ of headroom above the device. If you are going to stack multiple A.lx devices on top of each other, you must use the magnetic feet attached to the bottom.
• Rack – Use a standard 1U rack shelf to install 2 A.lx units side by side. It is recommended to have at least 0.5″ of head room above the A.lx. Use the magnetic feet if you are going to stack multiple A.lx devices on top of each other.
• Wall Mount – The built-in mounting ports are designed to fit a standard #8 or #6 drywall screw. Use the included template to locate where to position the screws.

DOWNLOAD THE VSSL APP
Once you’re ready to set up your A.1x, download the app from the app store on your mobile device. Open the app and we’ll guide you through connecting and setting up your A.1x.

PLAYING MUSIC

Listening to music with VSSL is easy. Just play music in your favorite music streaming app,
choose your preferred streaming method, and select the zone(s) to play to.

AIRPLAY
Use AirPlay 2 to stream music, podcasts, radio and more directly from your favorite apps to your A.lx. With AirPlay 2, you’re in control of your audio. If you have more than one VSSL zone within your home, you can enjoy your favorite music or podcasts throughout your house – in perfect sync. You can even play different songs in different rooms.

CHROMECAST BUILT-IN
Chromecast built-in is a platform that lets you cast your favorite music from your phone, tablet or laptop right to your speakers. Easily control your speakers with apps you already know and love from your iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Mac or Windows* laptop, or Chromebook. With Chromecast built into your VSSL A.1x, your phone becomes your remote. Simply tap the Cast button § from the app to stream music/tunes/podcasts/ playlists from your phone, tablet or laptop to your VSSL A.1x

SPOTIFY CONNECT
Use your phone, tablet or computer as a remote control for Spotify. Go to spotify.com/connect to learn more.

Note : The Spotify software is subject to third party licenses found here: www.spotify.com/connect/third-party- licenses

ALEXA CAST O
Alexa Cast allows you to play (cast) and control music on any of your VSSL zones from your Amazon Music iOS or Android app. Your devices do not need to be on the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device and you can target any VSSL zone from anywhere. Your app becomes a remote control for your A.1x.

BLUETOOTH
Your VSSL A.lx is equipped with Bluetooth. The Bluetooth on the A.1x can always be discovered but streaming over Wi-Fi is recommended.

LOCAL MUSIC LIBRARY
For local music you can use any DNA, Chromecast, Alexa, or AirPlay-based streaming app to play content to your VSSL A.1x. You can also use these apps to access local music from a NAS drive. See instructions for External Audio Source (Input).

EXTERNAL AUDIO SYSTEM (OUTPUT)
You can connect your A.lx to an external amplifier system (e.g., home theater receiver, high-powered amplifier, outdoor audio system). The A.lx is capable of acting as the source in these systems.

• Connect the external amplifier to the analog, optical, or digital coax output.
• The output by default is variable, which allows you to control the volume of the external system from your phone or other streaming devices. A fixed output can be configured in the VSSL app.
• If the A.lx will only act as a source, enable line out only mode by setting the switch labeled AMPLIFICATION to the off position.

Note : In applications with multiple external systems, the A.1x will transmit the same line-level signal to all line-level outputs simultaneously.

EXTERNAL AUDIO SYSTEM (INPUT)
You can connect your A.lx to the audio output of any device. Wire the output of any audio source to any of the local inputs (e.g., satellite TV box, record player).

• Connect the external audio source to the A.lx optical, analog, or coaxial input.
• If the external audio source has an IR remote, connect the provided I sensor on the back panel and learn its controls through the VSSL app.
• Set priority to “Local first” within the VSSL app’s zone settings.

CONNECTING A SUBWOOFER
A subwoofer is a great way to add more bass to your VSSL system. To connect a subwoofer, use the sub out RCA connector and adjust the crossover settings within the VSSL app.

VOICE CONTROL

GOOGLE ASSISTANT
The VSSL A.lx works seamlessly with the Google Assistant. Using Google Assistant on your Android, Google Home speaker, or other certified Google Assistant device you can say things like: works with the Google Assistant

• “Play some music in the master bedroom”
• “Stop the music in the kitchen”
• You can even set the default playback from your Google Home speaker to shorten your phrases to:
• “Play music” “Turn up the volume” “Stop”

AMAZON ALEXA
For the first time ever, VSSL now supports Amazon Alexa! Control your VSSL zones with Alexa’s music skills and automation.

Simply login to your Amazon account through the VSSL app interface. Your VSSL zone is then instantly available within the Alexa app. In the Alexa app, change the name of the zone and add it to a group under “Set Up Multi-Room Music.”

APPLE SIRI
As a certified AirPlay 2 product, you can use your A.1x with Siri on your iPhone, Mac, or Apple TV. Using Siri, you can say things like:

• “Play ‘I Want It All’ by Queen on all speakers”
• “Play something I like on all speakers”
• “Play some rock on kitchen speaker”
• “Play/pause music”
• “Play the next song”
• “Play the song before this one” etc.
• “Repeat last song/album/playlist”
• “Fast forward 30 seconds”, “Rewind 10 seconds”, etc.

To use Siri with your A.lx, you must first add the device to your home in the iOS Apple HomeKit app. Please follow the recommended procedure from Apple. See the following support article: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208724.

VSSL APP

INITIAL SETUP
When your A.lx is plugged into power, the VSSL app will automatically recognize your device and initiate setup. Simply follow the prompts to name your zones and choose how you would like to stream to your amplifier.

PLAYBACK & VOLUME CONTROL
On the home screen, you may adjust the volume of each zone, control the playback on existing streams, and assign external input sources.

PAGING
Your A.1x can turn any and all zones into an internal paging system.

• Upon entering the app, simply tap the microphone icon at the top right of the screen, press and hold the desired zone to page to, then record your message.
• The page volume can be adjusted in the settings as long as you are logged into the app with vour em

IR CONTROL
Your A.lx can learn I codes to control your TV’s or control system’s volume with its original remote.

• Connect the included I cable to the IR Remote port on the back panel.
• In the VSSL app zone settings with the remote in hand, follow the prompts on the screen to learn the IR codes for Volume+, Volume-, and Mute functions. The device status indicator will blink purple when it receives a learned command.

MAX VOLUME
You can set volume limits on any of your zones by adjusting the left and right channel max volume slider. For your convenience, the app acts as an SPL meter and calculates the current sound pressure in decibels (dB).

PRIORITY
By default, the A.lx sets priority to “Streaming first” in the case that 2 different source types are attempting to play to a zone. For scenarios where you desire to have the local input take priority over a stream, toggle the zone’s priority setting to “Local first.” This is especially helpful in cases where speakers are being used for both TV watching and listening to distributed audio.

EQ SETTINGS

• You can fine tune any of your zones to improve & tailor your listening experience.
• Toggle on “Enable EQ” and adjust the basic treble, mid, and bass preset sliders.
• Finer frequency range adjustments can be made under “Advanced EQ.”

Device Status

DEVICE STATUS INDICATOR

POWER INDICATOR

BOOT UP
During boot up, the power and device status indicators will cycle through a multicolored flashing light sequence. Upon powering the A.1x for the first time, or after a factory reset, a flashing white device status indicator light indicates it is ready to be set up.

POWER MODES

• Auto mode – Enabled by default, this mode allows the device to enter into a network standby mode after 10 minutes of no music output. To wake the A.1x, simply start a music stream to the device.
• Always On mode – This setting can be adjusted in the VSSL app.

SOFTWARE UPDATES
Your VSSL system checks for updates automatically on a daily basis. This ensures delivery of important updates and will keep your system running bug free. During system updates the zone indicator will flash a multicolor pattern.

TROUBLESHOOTING

VSSL APP SPINS
When opening the app, the screen spins and cannot find a zone.

• Make sure the device is connected to the same network as the VSSL. If the device is having trouble connecting to the internet, the zone status indicators will all be red.
• If the zone status indicators are blinking white, your A.3x requires setup in the VSSL app.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.
• Visit vssI.com/knowledgebase/vss|-networking-support/ and make the following adjustments to your network with the help of your Internet Service Provider.
• Reboot your network.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds after network adjustments have been made.

MISSING DEVICE
You cannot see your zone within the music streaming app.

• Ensure the device is powered on by checking the power indicator light.
• Check your internet connection.
• Make sure the device is connected to the same network as the VSSL. If no network is connected, the zone status indicators will be red.
• If the zone status indicators are blinking white, your A.3x requires setup in the VSSL app.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.

CAN’T CONNECT TO A ZONE
You can see your zone within the music streaming app but cannot establish a connection.

• Reboot your A.3x by flipping the power switch on the back of the unit off and on again.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.
• Visit vssl.com/knowledgebase/vssl-networking-support and make the following adjustments to your network with the help of your Internet Service Provider.
• Reboot your network.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds after network adjustments have been made.

NO MUSIC OUTPUT
You are able to connect/play to your zone, but no music can be heard from the speakers.

• Check your speaker connections. Make sure all the cables are properly terminated in the phoenix connectors and there are no wires touching across to other ports.
• Open the VSSL app to make sure the zone you’re playing to is not muted and the volume is turned up high enough to hear.
• Ensure each zone’s max impedance load does not exceed 4 ohms. Visit vssI.com/support for more information on impedance, amplifiers, and speakers.
• Try different streaming protocols AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect within different music apps like Apple Music. Spotify, or Pandora.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.

MUSIC STOPS
Your music intermittently stops on its own and or the zone disconnects from the device.

• Close and restart the music app that was being used when the music stopped.
• Try reducing wireless interference by moving the source device and A.lx closer to the Wi-Fi router or access point.
• Try different streaming protocols AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect within different music apps in order to isolate the issue.
• Check the music service’s online site to find reports of possible service outage
• Visit vssl.com/knowledgebase/vssl-networking-support/ and make the following adjustments to your network with the help of your Internet Service Provider.
• Reboot your network.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds after network adjustments have been made.

ZONE INDICATOR LIGHT IS GREEN
Your A.lx is stuck with a green zone indicator light indicating no network connection.

• Temporarily connect your A.lx to the internet via an ethernet cable.
• Check your internet connection and replace your ethernet cable.
• Reboot your A.lx from the app or by unplugging and plugging in the power cord.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.

INDICATOR LIGHTS ARE DEAD
Even after booting up, neither power nor zone indicator lights turn on.

• Ensure the power cord is fully inserted into the back of the A.lx.
• Open the VSSL app, enter the settings section, and disable DARK MODE.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or holding in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.

GOOGLE HOME APP CANNOT FIND ZONE TO SET UP
While attempting to setup in Google Home, cannot find zone.

• Ensure the device is powered on by checking the power indicator light.
• Temporarily connect your A.lx to the internet via ethernet cable
• Check your internet connection.
• Make sure the device is connected to the same network as the VSSL. If no network is connected the device status indicator will be green.
• Perform a factory reset from the app or hold in the reset button for at least 5 seconds.

MY STREAMING APP IS FROZEN WITH MUSIC PLAYING

• Hard close and restart the app on your device.
• Reboot your A.1x from the VSSL app or by unplugging and plugging in the power cord.

WARRANTY INFORMATION **

**

All VSSL branded products have a limited one (1) year warranty. The VSSL Product Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship in every VSSL product for one (1) year from the date of ship- ment from VSSL or the date of the original retail purchase from an authorized VSSL Dealer. The VSSL Product Warranty will cover the cost of parts and repair labor on all products deemed to be defective by Soundvision Technologies. The VSSL Product Warranty does not guarantee that VSSL products will at all times operate without interruption or will be error-free, or that all errors may be corrected. The warranty extends only to the original purchaser of the product and not to any subse- quent owner. Soundvision Technologies’ obligation under this warranty is limited to repairing or replacing any component found defective in material or workmanship under normal conditions of use with an equal and or current product. Products to be repaired or returned under this warranty must be returned to VSSL through an authorized VSSL dealer with all transportation and insurance charges prepaid. The warranty period is not extended if we repair or replace your product.

There are some exclusions to the VSSL Product Warranty, including but not limited to:

• Products which have been abused, modified, or disassembled;
• Problems that result from external causes such as accident, abuse or misuse;
• Use that is not in accordance with VSSL product instructions;
• Products with missing or altered serial numbers;
• Products which have had their housings opened or are otherwise tampered with; or
• Problems caused by using third party accessories, parts, or components.

COPYRIGHT
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS ACCURATE AT THE TIME OF PRINTING. HOWEVER, THIS INFORMATION MAY BE CHANGED OR UPDATED AT ANY TIME WITHOUT

NOTICE.
This document is protected under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries, All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including but not limited to photocopying, record- ing, information retrieval systems, or computer networks without the express written permission of VSSL, LLC.

VSSL™ is a registered trademark of VSSL, LLC, registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Additionally VSSL has other product names and slogans that are protected under U.S. Trademark laws, which may not be used without the express written permission of VSSL, LLC. Please take notice that VSSL™ products may also be protected by one or more patents issued by the U.S. and other countries.

Android, Google Play and Chomecast are trademarks of Google Inc. iPhone, iPod, iPad, AirPlay, AirPlay2, ¡Tunes, Mac’, OS X’, macOS™, Apple Music™, and Siri® are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Amazon, Alexa and all related logos and motion marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation registered in the U.S. and other countries.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not bypass 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 has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for  your safety.
• If the provided plug does not fit into 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/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 when unused for long periods of time
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as; power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

EU REGLATORY CONFORMANCE
According to Article 10 (10) of Directive 2014/53/EU, the packaging shows that this radio equipment will be subject to some restrictions when placed on the market in Belgium (BE), Bulgaria (BG), the Czech Republic (CZ), Denmark (DK), Germany (DE), Estonia (EE), Ireland (IE), Greece (EL), Spain (ES), France (FR), Italy (IT), Cyprus (CY), Latvia (LV), Luxembourg (LU), Hungary (HU), Malta (MT), Netherlands (NL), Austria (AT), Poland (PL), Portugal (PT), Romania (RO), Slovenia (SI), Slovakia (SK), Finland (FI), Sweden (SE), the United Kingdom (UK), Turkey(TR), Norway (NO), Switzerland (CH), Iceland (IS), and Liechtenstein (LI). The WLAN function for this device is restricted to indoor use only when operating in the 5150 to 5350 MHz frequency range.

FCC

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.

Note : This product 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 product generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this product 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 mesures:

• 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.

Please take attention that changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• this device may not cause interference, and
• this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

FAQs

What is the VSSL A.1x Channel Audio Streaming Amplifier?

The VSSL A.1x is a high-quality audio streaming amplifier designed to provide superior sound quality and convenience for your audio setup.

What audio sources can I stream with the VSSL A.1x?

You can stream audio from a variety of sources, including Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi, and compatible streaming services, making it versatile for different music sources.

Is the VSSL A.1x easy to install?

Yes, the VSSL A.1x is designed for easy installation. It comes with clear instructions, and you can typically set it up within minutes.

What is the power output of the VSSL A.1x?

The VSSL A.1x has a power output of 35 watts @ 8Ω RMS, 50 watt @ 4Ω RMS, providing ample power to drive your speakers for a great listening experience.

Is the VSSL A.1x compatible with both wired and wireless speakers?

Yes, the VSSL A.1x is compatible with both wired and wireless speakers, giving you flexibility in your speaker choices.

Can I control the VSSL A.1x using a smartphone or tablet?

Yes, you can control the VSSL A.1x using a dedicated app on your smartphone or tablet, allowing for easy and convenient adjustments.

What streaming services are supported by the VSSL A.1x?

The VSSL A.1x supports a wide range of popular streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music, and more, depending on your region.

Does it support multi-room audio?

Yes, the VSSL A.1x supports multi-room audio, allowing you to play different music in different rooms or synchronize audio playback across multiple rooms.

Can I connect my TV or other audio sources to the VSSL A.1x?

Yes, you can connect external audio sources, such as your TV or gaming console, to the VSSL A.1x using the provided inputs.

What is the warranty period for the VSSL A.1x?

The VSSL™ A Series - A. 1X HOME comes with a full 1 year manufacturers warranty..

Does it support high-resolution audio playback?

Yes, the VSSL A.1x supports high-resolution audio formats, delivering exceptional sound quality for audiophiles.

Is there a mobile app for firmware updates?

Yes, there is a mobile app that allows you to easily update the firmware of the VSSL A.1x, ensuring it stays up to date with the latest features and improvements.

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