FLUANCE Ai81 Powered Floor Standing Speakers User Guide

FLUANCE Ai81 Powered Floor Standing Speakers

Product Information

Specifications

• Model : Fluance Ai81
• Product Type : Passive Speaker System
• Speaker Wire Length : 8ft
• Power Cable : Included
• Remote Control : Included (2x AAA Batteries)
• Warranty : 2 Years
• Customer Support : Lifetime

Introduction:
Thank you for purchasing the Fluance Ai81 Passive Speaker System. This product is designed to provide you with a high-quality audio experience, delivering the performance as intended by the artist. With superior components and expert audio engineering, this speaker system is a perfect choice for any audiophile’s lifestyle.

Break-in Period:
Our speakers feature a Butyl rubber ring surrounding the cone. To achieve the best sound reproduction, we recommend a break-in period of 10-12 hours of play at moderate volume. During this time, the rubber will loosen and stretch, allowing the cone to have a larger range of movement.

Product Setup:

1. Position the speakers with the Active Speaker on the right and the Passive Speaker on the left. If placing the speakers near a wall, it is recommended to keep a distance of 6-12 inches away from the wall.
2. Connect one end of the included speaker wire to the binding posts on the back of the Active Speaker and connect the other end to the binding posts on the back of the Passive Speaker. Make sure to connect the same wire to the same color binding post on each speaker.
3. Connect the power cable to the back of the Active Speaker and set the power switch to the ON position.

EQ Adjustment:
Use the Bass/Treble buttons on the Remote Control to adjust the bass and treble levels from -5 to +5. The LED on the Active Speaker will indicate the settings:

• Red (Flash 2x): Bass/Treble set to -5 or +5
• Source Color (Flash 2x): Bass/Treble set to 0

Note : If you are using a source device with its own EQ settings, make sure it is set to flat (0). Some apps may also have their own EQ settings that should be set to flat.

FAQ:

Where can I find additional product information?
For additional product information, please consult the manual at Fluance.com/resources.

How long is the included speaker wire?
The included speaker wire is 8ft long. If you need to place your speakers further apart, it is recommended to use standard 18 gauge speaker wire.

What is the warranty period for this product?
This product comes with a 2-year warranty.

How can I contact customer support?
We offer lifetime customer support. For any questions or assistance, please visit our support page at www.Fluance.com/support.

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install by the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. 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.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as a 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.
15. The use of apparatus in moderate climates.

CAUTION

• Minimum 5cm around the apparatus for sufficient ventilation.
• The ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items, such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc.
• No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
• Should be drawn to the environmental aspects of battery disposal.
• To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
• The battery shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire, or the like.
• The mains plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

Introduction

Thank you for your purchase of your Fluance product. We hope you enjoy your experience. If you have any questions please visit us at www.Fluance.com/support. Fluance believes everyone should experience audio in its truest form, recreating the performance the way the artist intended. Utilizing only superior components and expert audio engineering, their products are a testament to the performance that can be achieved when a passion for music takes center stage. The perfect complement to any audiophile’s lifestyle, you’ll be enjoying live performances in your home for years to come.

Break-in Period
Our speakers have a Butyl rubber ring surrounding the cone. The break-in period allows the rubber to loosen and stretch, allowing the cone a larger range of movement, and resulting in better sound reproduction. We recommend 10-12 hours of play at moderate volume to achieve this. For additional product information, please consult the manual at: Fluance.com/resources

What’s Included

Front & Back Panel Layout

1. Control Knob
   • Volume
   • Input Selection
   • Power ON/OFF
2. Source LED
   • Blue (Solid) – Bluetooth® Paired
   • Blue (Flashing) – Bluetooth® Pairing Mode
   • Green (Solid) – RCA 1
   • Purple (Solid) – RCA 2
   • White (Solid) – Optical
   • Red (Solid) – Standby Mode
   • Red (Flashing) – Mute
3. IR Sensor
4. Speaker Input
5. Optical Input
6. RCA Input 1
7. RCA Input 2
8. Subwoofer Output
9. Bluetooth® Reset Pairing
10. Left Speaker Output
11. AC Input
12. Fuse (T3.15AL 250V)
13. Power Switch

Remote Control Layout

1. Power ON/OFF
2. Volume UP/DOWN
3. Source
4. Treble UP/DOWN
5. Mute
6. Play/Pause & Bluetooth® Pairing Reset
   To enable Bluetooth® Pairing Reset, press + hold for 3 seconds.
7. Forward/Back
8. LED Brightness – (100% > 25% > OFF)
9. Bass UP/DOWN

Product Setup

1. Position the speakers with the Active Speaker on the right and the Passive Speaker on the left.
   NOTE: If placing the speakers near a wall, it is recommended to keep 6-12 inches away from the wall.

2. Connect one end of the speaker wire to the binding posts on the back of the Active Speaker and connect the other end of the speaker wire to the binding posts on the back of the Passive Speaker.
   IMPORTANT : Ensure the same wire is connected to the same color binding post on each speaker.
   NOTE : The included speaker wire is 8ft. If placing your speakers further than 8ft apart it is recommended to use standard 18 gauge speaker wire to connect the speakers over the longer distance.

3. Connect the power cable to the back of the Active Speaker and set the power switch to the ON position.

EQ Adjustment

Use the Bass/Treble buttons on the Remote to adjust each from -5 to +5. LED Behavior:

• Red (Flash 2x) – Bass/Treble Set to -5 or +5
• Source Color (Flash 2x) – Bass/Treble Set to 0

Note : If using a source device, with its own EQ settings, ensure it is set to flat(0). Some apps also include an EQ that should also be set to flat.

EQ Reset
To reset the Bass and Treble levels to 0 put the speakers into Standby Mode and press and hold the Bluetooth Reset button until the red LED flashes. This will reset the speaker to default settings but will not reset Bluetooth Settings.

RCA Input

1. Connect the Optical cable to your source device (TV, Computer, Game Console…… Ensure protective caps are removed from the ends of the Optical cable.
2. Connect the other end of the Optical cable to the back of the Active Speaker.
3. Press the Control Knob to select the Optical Input (White LED).
   • Press the Source button on the remote control.
4. Adjust the volume on Ai81 as well as the source device.

Optical Input

1. Connect the Optical cable to your source device (TV, Computer, Game Console…). Ensure protective caps are removed from the ends of the Optical cable.
2. Connect the other end of the Optical cable to the back of the Active Speaker.
3. Press the Control Knob to select the Optical Input (White LED).
   • Press the Source button on the remote control.
4. Adjust the volume on Ai81 as well as the source device.

Optical Audio Signal Compatibility
The Ai81 does not support Dolby Digital Audio or DTS Audio. Locate the audio output settings on your source device and ensure Dolby Digital is turned off. The correct audio output setting is commonly referred to as PCM or Stereo. Some TVs also require that audio output be enabled. This setting may be referred to as External Speakers. Ensure this is selected as your speaker/audio output.

For instructions on a specific device, please consult the device’s user manual.

Bluetooth® Pairing

1. Press the Control Knob to select the Bluetooth® input (Blue LED).
   • Press the Source button on the remote control.
2. Pair to “Fluance Ai81” on your source device.
   • Note : The unit will attempt to auto-pair to the last paired device
3. Use the Remote to Play/Pause and go Forward/Backward on your source device.
   • Note: Adjust the Volume on the source device as well as the Ai81.
   • Important: Ensure any apps and devices have the EQ disabled (flat) and Volume Normalization disabled for best performance.
4. If your device cannot find “Fluance Ai81”, you can reset Bluetooth® pairing.
   • Press and hold on the Remote for 3 seconds to reset Bluetooth® pairing.
   • Press the Bluetooth® Pairing Reset Button on the back of the unit.

Subwoofer Output

IMPORTANT: When a subwoofer cable is connected, the Ai81 will automatically cut frequencies below 80Hz to optimize performance. The subwoofer cable must be removed to resume full-frequency playback.

1. Connect the Subwoofer cable to your powered subwoofer.
2. Connect the other end of the Subwoofer cable to the back of the Active Speaker.
3. Adjust the volume on the Subwoofer for the best listening experience.

Fluance offers matching subwoofers for the ultimate audio experience. For more information visit: www.Fluance.com/subwoofer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there no sound from the Ai81 when connected to the Optical input?

Many digital audio sources feature Dolby Audio which is not supported by the Ai81. Ensure your device audio output is set to Stereo or PCM. See page 7 for more information.

What do I do if I hear screeching sounds on the Optical input?

This can occur if your TV’s audio output setting is on Dolby Audio or Surround Sound. Ensure your device audio output is set to Stereo or PCM. See page 7 for more information.

What do I do if audio is only coming from the active speaker?

The most common cause of no audio from one speaker is a poor connection. Ensure the metal portion of the speaker wire is in direct contact with the binding posts.

What is auto-pairing and how does it work?

Autopairing is a convenient connection feature included in all Fluance Bluetooth Speakers. If the connected Bluetooth®-enabled device leaves the connection range of the Ai81 and returns at a later time, the device will automatically connect. If the device’s Bluetooth function is disabled and then enabled at a later time, the device will automatically connect as well. Note The Fluance Ai81 will only autopair to the last device that it was connected to.

What do I do if my remote control is not working?

Replace the batteries in the remote with a new set. Ensure you are pointing the remote at the IR sensor on the Active (right) Speaker and that nothing is blocking the sensor.

What is the range of my Bluetooth Connection?

The Fluance Ai81 operates with Power Class 2 Bluetooth devices, which have a range of approximately 33 feet (line of sight). If you are experiencing Bluetooth connectivity issues it is recommended to position the Ai81 away from sources of interference such as wireless routers or microwaves.

Another Bluetooth device is connected to my Fluance Ai81 and I want to connect my device.

You can reset any Bluetooth connection by pressing the Bluetooth Pairing Reset button on the back of the Active Speaker. You can also press and hold PlayPause on the Remote for 3 seconds.

How can I increase the volume when using the Ai81 with a turntable?

If turntable audio is too quiet you may need to add a preamplifier. Some turntables have built-in preamps that can be turned on or off. The Fluance PA10 preamplifier is a great match for Fluance-powered speakers and turntables.

Why is the volume from each input different on the Ai81?

Ensure that any volume normalization and EQ settings on your source devices are disabled. The different signal types used by each input means they are processed differently by the Ai81. The Optical Input uses a digital signal while the RCA Input uses an analog signal. These differences can result in slight variances in the output volume of the Ai81.

Why are my speakers quiet when I stream music?

Confirm the volume on your source device is turned up. If the issue persists your device or app may have volume-limiting settings that are affecting the overall volume of your music. It is recommended to disable any Volume/Audio Normalization settings on your device and app. These settings can adjust the volume level of all audio and negatively affect the performance of the speakers. Ensure these settings are disabled and that any EQ settings are set to flat.

What is the break-in period for Fluance speakers?

The break-in period for your Fluance Ai81 speakers is about 10 hours of playing time at normal listening volumes. After this period, the drivers will have had enough movement to perform at their peak level.

Need Help?
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Certification Information

FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, under 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 by 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 the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to 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.

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.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator & your body. The device has been evaluated to meet general RF exposure requirements. The device can be used in portable exposure conditions without restriction.

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

1. This device may not cause interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator & your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Warranty Information

Thank you for choosing Fluance! We guarantee your investment in our products is a solid one. High-performance components combined with quality craftsmanship allow us to maintain the highest possible production standards. All items are guaranteed against defects in materials and craftsmanship. Fluance has outstanding quality control; if something goes wrong with any of our products, we will repair it free of charge within the warranty period. If the product cannot be repaired, we will replace the product. If the product has been discontinued, we will replace the product with either the newest version of said product or the current equivalent. If Fluance replaces a product under warranty, the replacement would only carry the original warranty from the original date of purchase.

Warranty Period
The Fluance products below are warrantied for parts and labor for the stated period from the date of original purchase and are subject to the terms and conditions of the warranty. Any refurbished products that are discontinued hold a 90-day warranty from the date of original purchase. Fluance warranties are valid for the original owner and are non-transferable.

• Home Audio Passive Speakers: Lifetime Warranty
• Active or Powered Speakers: Two-Year Warranty
• HiFi Turntables : Two-Year Warranty
• Batteries (For Powered Speakers): One-Year Warranty

Warranty Exclusions

• Products purchased from a dealer not authorized by Fluance.
• Products with the serial number defaced, altered or missing.
• Defects resulting from disaster, accident, abuse, misuse, lightning, power surges, neglect, unauthorized modification, or water damage.
• Defect or damage as a result of repairs performed by a person or party not authorized by Fluance.
• Defects of damage occurring during shipping (claims should be made with the shipping company).
• Defect or damage as a result of connecting a product to an outlet with the incorrect voltage. Voltage converters must be used where applicable.
• Consumable parts include but are not limited to, batteries, styli, and rubber belts.

To Obtain Warranty Service
Should your product require warranty service, please contact us at www.fluance.com/contact or call us at 1-888-617-6863 to set up a Return Authorization. Products returned without a valid Return Authorization number will be refused. Fluance products must be returned in their original packaging. Our products are packaged specially to protect them from any damage during shipping, and without this packaging, the return shipment could get damaged. This warranty does not cover the shipping cost, insurance, or any other incidental charges. Products shipped for warranty service must be pre- paid by the customer, and Fluance will cover the cost to ship the repaired or replaced product back to the customer.

Thank you for your purchase of this Fluance® product. We hope you enjoy your experience.

Questions?
Give us a chance to help, we’re just a click away.

• Fluance.com/resources
• Fluance.com/support
• Fluance.com/videos
• Fluance.com/contact

Don’t forget to register your product with us! Fluance.com/registration

References

• Fluance Support Center
• Register your product | Fluance
• Resources | Fluance
• Fluance Support Center
• Fluance Support Center
• Fluance Support Center
• Powered Subwoofers | Fluance
• Fluance Support Center
• Fluance Support Center
• Fluance Support Center
• Fluance Support Center
• Register your product | Fluance
• Resources | Fluance
• Powered Subwoofers | Fluance

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