Electro-Voice ZLX Series Powered Loudspeaker Instruction Manual

: June 14, 2024
: Electro-Voice

Table of Contents

Electro-Voice ZLX Series Powered Loudspeaker
Safety
- Suspension
FCC STATEMENT
- Certifications
Description
Tripod, pole mount, and floor monitor operation
Amplifier DSP
Recommended configuration
Troubleshooting
Technical data
Contact
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

Electro-Voice ZLX Series Powered Loudspeaker

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-product

Safety

Important safety instructions

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT OVEREXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
WARNING: THE MAINS PLUG OR AC INLET IS USED AS A DISCONNECT DEVICE. THE DISCONNECT DEVICE SHALL REMAIN READILY OPERABLE.
WARNING: CONNECT ONLY TO MAINS SOCKET WITH A PROTECTIVE EARTHING CONNECTION.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) AS THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
The asterisk within an equilateral triangle is intended to inform the user to necessary installation or removal instructions regarding equipment or hardware use relating to the system.

Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
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 (including amplifiers) 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 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 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 with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Unplug the 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.
No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The apparatus should not be exposed to dripping or splashing. Objects filled with liquids, such as vases should not be placed on apparatus.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Minimum 60 cm (2 ft) distances around the apparatus for sufficient ventilation.
The ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items, such as newspapers, table-cloths, curtains, etc.
To completely disconnect AC power from this apparatus, the power supply cord must be unplugged.

Suspension

Warning

Suspending any object is potentially dangerous and should only be attempted by individuals who have a thorough knowledge of the techniques and regulations of suspending objects overhead. Electro-Voice strongly recommends all loudspeakers be suspended taking into account all current national, federal, state, and local laws and regulations. It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure all loudspeakers are safely installed in accordance with all such requirements. When loudspeakers are suspended, Electro-Voice strongly recommends the system be inspected at least once per year or as laws and regulations require. If any sign of weakness or damage is detected, remedial action should be taken immediately. The user is responsible for making sure the wall, ceiling, or structure is capable of supporting all objects suspended overhead. Any hardware used to suspend a loudspeaker not associated with Electro-Voice is the responsibility of others.

Warning

Do not suspend this product in any other manner than explicitly described in this manual, or Electro-Voice installation guides. Suspending any object (loudspeaker) is potentially dangerous and should only be done by individuals with thorough knowledge of techniques, materials, and regulations for suspending objects overhead. Electro-Voice loudspeakers can only be suspended using accessories and hardware described in Electro-Voice manuals and installation guides. Do NOT use handles to suspend the loudspeaker. Handles on Electro- Voice loudspeakers are intended to only be used for temporary transport by people. Items, such as fiber rope, wire rope, cables, or other types of materials cannot be used to suspend loudspeaker from the handles. Any hardware used to suspend a loudspeaker not associated with Electro-Voice is the responsibility of others.

FCC STATEMENT

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.

Notice: 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 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.

Please take attention that changes or modification not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your body This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

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

Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.

Precautions

If an Electro-Voice loudspeaker is used outdoors on a sunny day, place the loudspeaker in a shaded or covered area. The loudspeaker amplifiers have protection circuits that temporarily shut the loudspeaker off when extremely high temperatures are reached. This can happen on hot days when the loudspeaker is in direct sunlight.
Do not use Electro-Voice loudspeakers in an environment where temperatures are below 0°C (32°F) or exceed +35°C (95°F)
Never expose an Electro-Voice loudspeaker to rain, water, or high moisture.
Electro-Voice loudspeakers are easily capable of generating sound pressure levels sufficient to cause permanent hearing damage to anyone within normal coverage distance. Caution should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to sound pressure levels exceeding 90 dB.

Certifications

Notices

Old electrical and electronic appliances

Electrical or electronic devices that are no longer serviceable must be collected separately and sent for environmentally compatible recycling (in accordance with the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive). To dispose of old electrical or electronic devices, you should use the return and collection systems put in place in the country concerned.

Copyright and disclaimer

All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher. For information on getting permission for reprints and excerpts, contact Electro- Voice. All content including specifications, data, and illustrations in this manual are subject to change without prior notice.

Notice

Bluetooth® is available in select countries.
Contact your nearest Electro-Voice dealer or Electro-Voice distributor for more information.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Bosch Security Systems, Inc. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

http://www.boschsecurity.com/datecodes/

Description

Thank you for choosing an Electro-Voice powered loudspeaker system. Please take time to consult the manual to understand all the features built into your EV system and fully utilize its performance capabilities.

NOW STREAMING: Cut through the competition with Bluetooth® enhanced ZLX portable loudspeakers

ZLX portable loudspeakers offer the best performance and reliability in their class – with components and engineering that work together to make it quicker and easier than ever to take control of your sound, whatever the gig. Now with Bluetooth® enabled wireless audio streaming, legendary ZLX performance becomes even more convenient with the ability to connect to any mobile device for streaming your music library. Featuring custom drivers housed in an innovative cabinet design, the two new wireless, compact, and versatile ZLX models make EV’s renowned sound quality and rugged reliability more accessible than ever before.

Bluetooth® is available in select countries.

System features

ZLX-12BT and ZLX-15B-Powered Loudspeaker Systems

The only loudspeaker in its class that matches EV-engineered drivers with a custom-built Class-D amplifier module and powerful DSP. Whether pole-mounted or used as a floor monitor, ZLX delivers stunning sonic impact and intelligibility legendary “EV Sound” the pros trust.

High-quality Bluetooth® audio streaming for background music or musical accompaniment. Bluetooth® connectivity is available in select countries.
QuickSmartDSP features best-in-class processing. Easy setup via four presets, sub/top system-match, two-band EQ, five user-programmable presets, visual monitoring of limiter status, input level control and meters, and master volume control to optimize gain structure, all via LCD.
High-efficiency 1000 W Class-D power amplifier delivers us to 127 dB peak SPL utilizing transducers designed and engineered by EV.
EV-patented Signal Synchronized Transducers (SST) waveguide design provides precise and consistent coverage, minimal distortion, and maximized acoustical loading.
Three optimally located handles combined with a rugged composite structure provides the most portable professional sound speaker on the market.

Quick setup

The ZLX series loudspeakers from Electro-Voice are fully integrated audio systems with carefully matched electronics and transducers. These products make it easy to setup a high quality sound system quickly with a minimum amount of cables and external electronics.

Full-Range powered loudspeaker

Models: ZLX-12BT and ZLX-15BT

To set up a full-range powered loudspeaker, do the following:

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-1

Tripod, pole mount, and floor monitor operation

Tripod or pole mount

ZLX-12BT and ZLX-15BT loudspeakers mount on a tripod stand or on a pole above a subwoofer.

Mounting a loudspeaker on a tripod stand

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-3

Caution: Tripod is not evaluated for safety with this loudspeaker. Check the specifications of the tripod stand to be certain it is capable of supporting the weight of the loudspeaker.

Caution: Two person lift and placement is recommended for the heavier loudspeakers. Single person lift and placement of heavier loudspeakers could cause injury.

To mount a loudspeaker on a tripod stand, do the following:

Place the tripod stand on a level and stable surface.
- Fully extend the legs on the tripod stand.
- Do not compromise the tripod stands structural integrity by trying to make the stand taller.
- Do not attempt to suspend more than one loudspeaker on a stand designed for a single loudspeaker.
Using two hands lift the loudspeaker.
Set the pole cup located on the bottom of the loudspeaker onto the pole.

Mounting a loudspeaker on a pole

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-4

Caution: Two person lift and placement is recommended for the heavier loudspeakers. Single person lift and placement of heavier loudspeakers could cause injury.

To mount a loudspeaker on a pole, do the following:

Place the subwoofer on a level stable surface.
Insert the pole into the pole cup on the top of the subwoofer.
If you are using a threaded pole mount, turn the pole clockwise to secure the pole to the subwoofer.
- If you are not using a threaded pole mount, continue to the next step.
Using two hands lift the loudspeaker.
Set the pole cup located on the bottom of the loudspeaker onto the pole.

Floor monitor

ZLX-12BT and ZLX-15BT loudspeakers may be used as a floor monitor by placing the loudspeaker on the integral monitor angle.

Setting up as a floor monitor

To set up a loudspeaker as a floor monitor, do the following:

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-5

Place the loudspeaker on a level and stable surface.
Safely route cables to prevent injury to performers, production crew, and audience members.

Notice: Secure cables with wire ties or tape whenever possible.

Amplifier DSP

Amplifier DSP controls

The amplifier has a combination of controls and connectors to ensure the most versatile loudspeaker system.

Full-Range loudspeaker control and monitoring interface

The full-range loudspeaker DSP control menu selections are available for the ZLX-12BT and ZLX-15BT.

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-6

LCD – DSP control and monitoring interface.
MASTER VOL – Adjusts the sound level.
- DSP – Scroll through the menu and select the available choices. Push the MASTER VOL knob to enter the DSP menu.
INPUT LEVEL – Level control for adjusting the individual inputs’ level. The 12 o’clock position is unity gain (no gain or attenuation), the range to the left of zero is for adjusting line level sources, and the range to the right of zero (0) is for adjusting microphone levels. LINE and MIC input level control is available for both INPUT 1 and INPUT 2.
POWER – AC switch or switching the power ON or OFF. The LCD screen lights up when the power is turned ON, after approximately 3 seconds.
MAINS IN – AC connection is established via an IEC-connector.
INPUT – Balanced input for the connection of signal sources like mixing consoles, instruments, or microphones. Connections can be established using ¼ inch TRS or XLR connectors.
OUTPUT – XLR output sends the mix of all input signals to another loudspeaker or subwoofer. INPUT LEVEL controls the signal level to OUTPUT. The MASTER VOL or DSP control settings do not affect OUTPUT. This is also the output for the BT signal which is configurable via the MIX OUT setting.
AUX IN – 3.5 mm audio jack input for connecting external audio media devices, such as MP3 players.

System status

Normal

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-7

LEVEL – Indicates the master gain of the system in dB. The range is from mute to +10 dB, in 1 dB increments.
IN1 – VU meter displays the signal level of INPUT 1 into the amplifier INPUT 1 XLR connector. IN1 and IN2 are independent of each other.
IN2 – VU meter displays the signal level of INPUT 2 into the amplifier INPUT 2 XLR connector. IN1 and IN2 are independent of each other.
BT – VU meter displays the signal level of wireless audio input.
1 – Indicates the selected store function number. There are five user defined store function numbers available.
E – Indicates the preset is not saved. When the preset is saved the E is not displayed.
S – Audio streaming; the available options are:
- OFF – DISABLED
- FLASHING – PAIRING MODE (120s)
- SOLID – CONNECTED

Notice

Bluetooth® is available in select countries.
Contact your nearest Electro-Voice dealer or Electro-Voice distributor for more information.

System protection

System protection limiters indicate when a system is exceeding recommended usage by indicating CLIP or LIMIT on the LCD display.

CLIP

CLIP indicates the signal to the loudspeaker is too high, resulting in a clipped signal into the loudspeaker.
If CLIP is shown, reduce the input gain knob and/or the signal on the mixer or source equipment.

LIMIT

LIMIT protects the loudspeaker from short-term peaks which can cause distortion. When LIMIT is shown small on the screen, the limiter is active but keeps distortion under control. The large LIMIT indicates the sound is negatively affected. Reducing the output volume (MASTER VOL) is strongly recommended when the large limit indication is shown.

DSP controls

An integrated DSP control menu allows the user to select multiple DSP system settings on the loudspeaker.

To access the DSP controls menu, do the following:

Push the MASTER VOL knob.
- The DSP Control menu appears.
Using the MASTER VOL knob, scroll through the menu items.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select the menu item you want to modify.
- The focus moves to the parameters on the right side of the DSP menu.
Using the MASTER VOL knob, scroll through the parameters.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to confirm the selected parameter.
- The setting is saved. The focus returns to the menu items on the left side of the DSP menu.
Repeat steps 2 through 5 to modify additional DSP and system settings.
Select EXIT to return to the home screen.

DSP control menu

The full-range loudspeaker DSP control menu selections are available for the ZLX-12BT and ZLX-15BT loudspeakers.

Tab. 4.1: Full-Range Loudspeaker DSP Control Menu

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-29

EXIT Menu

The Exit menu is used to return to the home screen.

Notice

The display returns to the home screen after two minutes of inactivity.

MODE Menu

The Mode menu is used to configure the type of sound the loudspeaker delivers.
Available options for this selection are: MUSIC, LIVE, SPEECH and CLUB.

MUSIC – is used for recorded music playback and electronic dance music applications. (Default)
LIVE – is used for live sound applications.
SPEECH – is used for spoken word applications.
CLUB – is used for recorded electronic music playback.

LOCATION Menu

The Location menu is used to optimize the loudspeaker for different boundaries. Available options for this selection are: POLE, MONITOR and BRACKET.

POLE – is used when the loudspeaker is placed on a tripod stand or placed on a pole. (Default)
MONITOR – is used when the loudspeaker is placed on the angled monitor panel in monitor position. This setting compensates for the amount of low frequency boost created by placing the speaker close to the floor.
BRACKET – is used when the loudspeaker is mounted to the wall using the mounting bracket (Mounting Bracket accessory sold separately). This setting compensates for the amount of low frequency boost created by placing the loudspeaker close to the wall.

SUB Menu

The Sub menu is used to select a high pass frequency for use with a subwoofer or a matched subwoofer. Available options for this selection are: OFF, 80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, ELX200-12SP, ELX200-18SP, EKX-15SP, EKX-18SP, and ELX118P. The high passes are 24 dB/octave Linkwitz/ Riley crossovers. The 80 Hz, 100 Hz, 120 Hz, and 150 Hz choices are generic high pass settings for use with other subwoofers. The ELX200-12SP, ELX200-18SP, EKX-15SP, EKX-18SP, and ELX118P settings are specifically optimized for subwoofers by including delay for best summation.

TREBLE Menu

The Treble menu is used to adjust the high frequency performance of the loudspeaker for different applications or personal preference. The parameter controls a high shelving filter that is centered on 6 kHz.
The range is -10 dB to +10 db.
The default is zero (0).

BASS Menu

The Bass menu is used to adjust the low frequency performance of the loudspeaker for different applications or personal preference. The parameter controls a parametric EQ filter that is centered on 60 Hz.
The default is zero (0).

MIX OUT Menu

The Mix Out menu is used to select which channel of the BT signal should be output at MIX OUT and which channel should be delivered by the loudspeaker.

L+R: The left and right signals of BT are summed. The sum is output at MIX OUT and is delivered by the loudspeaker. (Default)
R: Only the right signal of BT is output at MIX OUT. The loudspeaker will deliver only the left signal.

LED Menu

The LED menu shows power on and indicates limit. Available options for this selection are:

ON, OFF or LIMIT.

ON: turns the LED on when the power to the loudspeaker is ON. (Default)
OFF: turns the LED off.
LIMIT: turns the LED off under normal operation. The LED brief blinking indicates the limiter is activating. Short-term blinking is not critical because the integrated limiter keeps distortion under control. Constant lighting of the LED indicates the sound is negatively affected. If the LED is constantly lit, check the rear LCD for more information. Reducing the output volume is strongly recommended.

LCD DIM Menu

The LCD Dim menu is used to dim the display when the display is idle for two minutes.
Available options for this selection are: ON or OFF.
The default is ON.

CONTRAST Menu

The Contrast menu is used to increase or decrease the visibility of the LCD screen.
The range is -10 dB to +10 db.
The default is zero (0).

STORE Menu

The Store menu allows you create up to five customized user settings. Available options for this selection are: EXIT, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Notice

The customized user setting name can contain a combination of alphanumeric characters including spaces. The alphanumeric character range is A to Z and 0-9.
The name field length is 12 characters.

To store customized user settings, do the following:

From the DSP menu, scroll to STORE.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select STORE.
- The store screen appears.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select 1.
- The Enter name for 1 screen appears.
Use the MASTER VOL knob to scroll through the characters.
- The characters appear.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select the desired character.
Turn the MASTER VOL knob to move to the next character entry.
- Continue selecting characters until the desired name is entered.
Use the MASTER VOL knob to scroll to SAVE.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select SAVE.
Repeat steps 3 through 8 to store additional customized user settings.
Select EXIT to return to the home screen.

RECALL Menu

The Recall menu allows you retrieve up to five customized user settings. Available options for this selection are: EXIT, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

To recall customized user settings, do the following:

From the DSP menu, scroll to RECALL.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select RECALL.
- The recall screen appears.
Push the MASTER VOL knob to select 1.
- The selected item is loaded.
Select EXIT to return to the home screen.

STREAMING

The Streaming menu is used to stream audio from your Bluetooth® enabled device to the loudspeaker system. Available options for this selection are: PAIRING, ON or OFF.
The default is OFF.
Paring mode is enabled for 120 seconds.

Pairing the loudspeaker with your Bluetooth® enabled device

To pair the loudspeaker with your Bluetooth® enabled device, do the following:

From the DSP menu, scroll to STREAMING.
Select PAIRING.
- PAIRING mode enables 120 seconds of visibility to Bluetooth® enabled devices.
On your mobile device, select EV ZLX BT to initiate the pairing process.
- Once the device is paired, all device audio will be output through the ZLX loudspeaker.

LOCK Menu

The Lock menu is designed to prevent users from inadvertently changing settings. Available options for this selection are: ON or OFF.
The default is OFF.

RESET Menu

The Reset menu is used to reset the loudspeaker to original factory settings. Available options for this selection are: NO or YES.
The default is NO.

To reset the system to original factory settings, do the following:

From the DSP menu, select RESET.
- The reset are you sure message appears.
Select YES.
- The loudspeaker restarts and resets the system to the original factory settings.

Notice

Performing a reset erases the user customized settings saved under the STORE menu.
The five user customized settings in the STORE and RECALL menus return to .

INFO Menu

The Information menu is used to display the product name and firmware version.

Recommended configuration

Daisy-chaining full-range systems

LINE and MIC input level control is available for both INPUT 1 and INPUT 2. The 12 o’clock position is unity gain (no gain or attenuation) and the range to the right of zero (0) is for adjusting microphone levels.

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-21

Notice: The direction of the arrow indicates the signal path.

Tab. 5.2: DSP settings loudspeaker on a tripod

Mode: Speech
Location: Pole
Sub: Off

See also

Tripod or pole mount
Amplifier DSP

MP3 player MONO configuration

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-22

Notice: The direction of the arrow indicates the signal path.

Tab. 5.3: DSP settings loudspeaker on a tripod

Mode: Music
Location: Pole
Sub: Off

See also

Tripod or pole mount
Amplifier DSP

Using full-range systems as monitors

LINE and MIC input level control is available for both INPUT 1 and INPUT 2. The 12 o’clock position is unity gain (no gain or attenuation) and the range to the right of zero (0) is for adjusting microphone levels.

Electro-Voice-ZLX-Series-Powered-Loudspeaker-fig-23