Como Audio Blu Streaming Stereo System Owner’s Manual

Blu Streaming Stereo System
**Owner’s Manual

**

Blu Streaming Stereo System

Front Panel

1. Power/Volume: There are two power modes: Off/On and Standby. Off/On: When Off, push and hold until Como Blu turns On. When On, press and hold until Como Blu turns Off. The clock will not show when Como Blu is Off. See “Battery Pack”. Standby: This mode will be used in most cases. When Como Blu is On, push briefly to place it in Standby. When in Standby, push briefly to turn Como Blu On. The clock will be displayed when Como Blu is in On or in Standby. Volume: When playing music, rotate to adjust the volume level. When paired and connected to a Bluetooth device, use the device’s volume control if available.
2. Play/Pause/Previous & Next Track: In Bluetooth mode, while music is playing, push briefly to pause and push again to resume playback. Rotate once right for the next track. Rotate once left for the previous track.
3. Source: Push briefly to change from Bluetooth mode to the Auxiliary input. The LEDs will change to green in Aux mode. Connect an audio device to the rear Aux input. Push again to return to Bluetooth mode and the LEDs will change to blue. Push twice quickly to change the clock format from 12 hours to 24 hours.
4. LEDs: Blue for Bluetooth mode, Green for Aux mode, Amber when audio is muted, and cycling Amber when the optional battery pack is charging on standby.
5. Time: The seven-segment red display shows the time in a 12 or 24-hour format. See “Setting the Clock” and “Setting the time format”.
6. Optical sensor: Automatically adjusts the display’s backlight based on ambient light conditions. The backlight is not manually adjustable.

Top Panel
1. Mute: Press briefly to mute the audio. The LEDs will flash amber. Press again to unmute.
Rear Panel

1. Reset button: Press and hold for 5 seconds to perform a power cycle and reset the unit if you encounter a problem. The time will reset to zero and default to the 12hour time format.

2. 18V/2.8A DC power input: Connect the included external Como Audio power supply to this input for power and to charge the battery (not included). Attach the appropriate included snap-in plug to the power supply for your region. If the power supply is ever lost or damaged, use only a like replacement.
   The adapter connector is center positive.

3. Auxiliary input: Connect the analog audio out from another device such as a CD player or MP3 player. This input accepts a 3.5mm connector. An adapter cable is included if converting a stereo RCA audio cable such as the cable included with the Como Audio Turntable. With Como Blu on, if the unit is in Bluetooth mode, push the source knob briefly to switch to Aux mode. The LEDs will change from blue to green. Push the Source knob again briefly to return to Bluetooth mode.

4. Headphone output: Connect a set of stereo headphones. The primary speakers will be muted. This output accepts a 3.5mm connector.

5. Bass control: Rotate right for more bass. Rotate left for less bass. The center detent is the recommended setting. The range impacted by the bass control is roughly 150Hz ­ 60Hz.

6. Speaker output: Connect the wired Como Blu Speaker’s audio cable to this right channel output. Use only the Como Audio Blu Speaker with this output. See “Mono/Stereo switch”.

7. Mono/Stereo switch: Keep this switch in the Stereo position unless the optional Como Blu Speaker is not connected, in which case it should be placed in the Mono position. In the stereo configuration, Como Blu will reproduce the left channel only and the Como Blu Speaker will reproduce the right channel only. Accordingly, it is suggested to position the Como Blu Speaker on the right side. The more distance between the two speakers, the better the channel separation and the wider the soundstage.

8. Battery compartment: Accepts the optional 2200mA 14.8V custom Li-Ion battery pack. Use only a genuine Como Audio battery pack, as unauthorized batteries could pose a fire risk and are not covered under warranty. The LEDs above the display will cycle whenever the battery pack is charging in standby mode. See the section marked “Battery Pack”.

9. Bass Port/Carry Handle: Rest your palm on the top of the cabinet and insert your fingers inside the port to carry. Do not obstruct the bass port otherwise.

Connecting Bluetooth devices to Como Blu:

With Como Blu on, be sure it is in Bluetooth pairing mode (the LEDs will flash blue). If Como Blu is in Aux mode (green LEDs), push the Source knob in briefly to switch to Bluetooth mode. Open Bluetooth on your source devices such as your smartphone or computer and search/scan for “Como Audio Blu”, then pair and connect on your phone.
If your source device prompts you to enter a passcode, enter “0000”. The Blu’s flashing blue LEDs will change to steady blue once connected. Adjust Como Blu’s volume or our source device’s volume as desired. Como Blu will remember up to five paired devices. |
Note when the audio first plays, the volume might ramp up.
Setting the Clock:
If you use an iPhone, pair and connect your iPhone to Bluetooth following the above instructions and the clock will set itself automatically within a few seconds using the time from your iPhone.
Otherwise, to set the clock manually, press and hold the Source knob. The hour will flash. Rotate the Source knob and press in to set the hour. The minutes will flash. Rotate the Source knob and press in to set the minutes. If you make a mistake, repeat the process.
If power is lost, including turning Como Blu off completely with no battery inside (or a dead battery inside), the clock must be set again when Blu is powered on unless using an iPhone.

Setting the Time Format:

Como Blu defaults to a 12-hour time format. To change this setting to a 24-hour time format, with Como Blu in standby, simply press the source knob in twice. Repeat to switch back to the 12-hour format.
Outdoor use:
Como Blu is splash-resistant but not waterproof. It should never be placed under running water or submerged. Take care to keep the real wood veneer from being exposed to moisture.
Battery Pack (optional):
To install the optional Como Audio 2200mA Li-Ion battery pack and make Como Blu portable, remove Como Blu’s rear battery cover. Snap the battery’s male connector into the female connector in Como Blu’s battery compartment. The connectors will only fit together one way. Insert the battery pack so the batteries are horizontal and tuck the wire above the battery pack. Como Blu’s amber LEDs will cycle when the battery is charging in standby mode.
Results will vary depending on use, but at approximately 60% volume with a fully charged battery, expect roughly 8 hours of playback time. Lower volume levels will extend battery playback time. A depleted battery pack can take up to 5+ hours to fully charge. When Como Blu’s battery is running low and needs to be connected to the power supply, a brief “Low Power!” spoken warning will sound.
When Como Blu is completely powered off (no clock showing), the amber charging LEDs will not illuminate but the battery pack will still charge.
During extended periods of non-use, be sure Como Blu is kept at room temperature with a 40% battery charge. If Como Blu’s power adapter is plugged in continuously, it is advisable every four months or so to operate it from the battery until it is depleted and then fully recharge it in order to keep the battery conditioned. When Off, the battery will last about 2.5 days as it will still maintain the time even though the display is off.
Spoken confirmations: It is not possible to adjust the volume on the spoken confirmations or turn them off.

Connecting Como Audio’s Turntable Analog:

1. Connect the audio cable that came with Turntable Analog to the Turntable’s rear output and set its switch to “Line out” (NOT “Phono out”).
2. Connect the other end of the same audio cable to the 3.5mm adapter cable.
3. Plug the adapter cable’s 3.5mm connector into Como Blu’s rear Aux input.
4. If Como Blu is in Bluetooth mode (the LEDs above the display will be flashing blue or steady blue), briefly push the Source knob to change from Bluetooth to Aux. The LEDs above the display will turn green. Play a record and adjust Como Blu’s volume as desired.
5. To return to Bluetooth mode, press the Source knob briefly.

Connecting the Como Audio Bluetooth Turntable:

1. Turn the Como Audio Bluetooth Turntable’s Bluetooth switch on (the switch is located on the right side of the turntable).
2. Be sure Como Blu is in pairing mode with the blue LEDs above the display flashing. If the LEDs are green, push the Source knob in briefly to change from Aux to Bluetooth mode. If the time is showing but the LEDs are not lighted, push the Power knob briefly to turn Como Blu on. If the time is not showing, push and hold the Power knob until Como Blu turns on.
3. The Turntable should wirelessly pair and connect within 30-60 seconds or less. Como Blu’s voice will confirm the successful connection.
4. Play a record and adjust Como Blu’s volume as desired.

Phone Calls:

If you receive a call while your smartphone is playing music via Bluetooth, the music will be interrupted. If you answer the call you might hear the other person’s voice through Como Blu but not your own voice. You would still speak through your phone as you normally would.

Warranty

Como Audio, Inc. provides two-year parts and labor warranty to the original owner from the date of purchase.
This warranty does not cover accidental damage, cosmetic damage, normal wear, and tear, improper installation, negligence, commercial applications, acts of God, lightning/power surges, unauthorized modifications, service by unauthorized facilities, or if purchased from an unauthorized reseller.
Como Audio will repair or replace the defective product at its discretion. Please retain the original receipt, accessories, and packing materials to avoid any fees.
Contact your point of purchase for warranty service.
Please visit our website for complete warranty details.
Contact Como Audio for an authorization number before returning any product to us at: info@comoaudio.com

Specifications:

Model name: Como Blu
Max power output: 30 watts RMS per channel; Class D Digital Amplifier
Power input: 18VDC/2.8A: Use only a like power adapter if a replacement adapter is ever needed.
Battery (optional): Li-Ion 2200mA/14.8V (For your safety and optimal performance, replace only with a genuine Como Audio Amico battery pack). Dispose of a spent battery pack according to your country’s requirements
Transducer configuration: ¾” soft dome tweeter and 3″ custom woofer
Energy efficiency: Consumes 1-watt maximum in standby; Consumes 37 watts at full volume (38 watts with the Como Blu Speaker connected).
Dimensions: 242 mm H x 125 mm W x 130 mm D
Weight: 1.70kg/3.75 lbs (without battery pack)
This manual was written by Peter Skiera.
This document, as well as all specifications and features, are subject to change without notice.
Como Audio, Inc. is not liable for technical or editorial errors/omissions.
Como Audio, the Como Audio logo, Como Blu, and Como Blu Speaker are trademarks or registered trademarks of Como Audio, Inc.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Como Audio, Inc is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
For FAQs, how-to videos, blog articles, and instruction manuals, please visit: www.comoaudio.com
Contact: info@comoaudio.com

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Warning: Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire, orthe like.

6. WARNING- To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

7. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

8. Clean only with a dry cloth.

9. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

10. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

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. Operate this product only from the type of power source indicated on the rear panel. For products using an external power supply, use an exact replacement if lost or damaged.

14. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet. This will prevent damage to the product from lightning storms and power line surges

15. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified personnel under the following conditions:
    a. When the power supply cord or plug is damaged.
    b. If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the product.
    c. If the product has been exposed to water or rain.
    d. If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions.
    e. If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
    f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance.

16. When replacement parts are required, be sure your service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

17. Upon completion of any service, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to confirm the product is in proper operating condition.

18. Keep this product a safe distance away from naked flame.

19. The recommended operating temperature range is 5° C ­ 40° C (41° F ­ 104° F).

20. Complies with Canadian ICES-003 & RSS-210.

21. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

22. The external power adapter serves as the disconnect device and should remain readily accessible.

23. WARNING- The mains are not disconnected in the standby position when the external adapter is connected.

Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE): This directive mandates the collection and recycling of electronics and component materials in order to reduce the amount going to landfills. Outside North America, when the user decides to discard this product, it must be sent to a separate collection facility for recycling. Please contact your point of purchase for more details.
Como Audio models comply with the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive.
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Interference Statement
FCC Part 15: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the 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 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.

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.
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.
Caution: Any 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. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Note: The wood veneers we apply to our nearly ½” thick cabinets are indeed real wood. They are quite literally products of nature, and as such, have their own color and grain characteristics which can vary from tree to tree, oftentimes greatly so. It is exactly these naturally occurring variations that result in each wood cabinet being truly unique. Thus, there may not be a precise match between Como Blu and the Como Blu Speaker. Also, the wood veneer can darken over time, particularly when exposed to sunlight.

Issued: April 29, 2021

DECLARATION of CONFORMITY

Application of Council Directive: LVD: 2014/35/EU; RED: 2014/53/EU; EMC: 2014/30/EU
Standards to which conformity is declared:
EN55032:2015+A11:2020/EN55035:2017+A11:2020/EN61000-3-3:2013+A1:2019/EN 62479: 2010/EN
50663: 2017/IEC 6100-3-2:2019/EN 301 489-1 V2.2.3 (2019-11)/EN 301 489-17 V3.2.4 (2020-09)/EN
300 V2.2.2 (2019-07)/FCC Part 15.247 & Part 15b; RoHS: EN62321:2014
Manufactured by: Como Audio, Inc.
Manufacturer Address: 100 Bay State Drive, Suite 1
Braintree, MA 02184 USA
Model name(s): Como Blu Stereo
The undersigned hereby declares the equipment complies with the above Directives

Peter Skiera
General Manager
Como Audio, Inc.”
Date: April 29, 2021

References

• Como Audio | Hi Fidelity Smart Speakers & Home Sound Systems

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