the t bone free solo HT UHF Wireless System User Manual

the t bone free solo HT UHF Wireless System

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: free solo HT
• Wireless System: UHF
• Date: 05.02.2024
• Identification Numbers: 296199, 296196, 296197, 380966 (V7)

General Information

• The free solo HT UHF Wireless System is a product designed for the wireless transmission of audio signals from microphones or instruments to amplifiers or active speakers. It is important to read and follow the safety instructions and all other instructions provided in this user manual for the safe operation of the product.
• This document serves as a guide for the safe and proper use of the product. It is recommended to keep this document for future reference and ensure that it is accessible to all users of the product. If you sell the product to another user, make sure they also receive this document.
• Our products and documentation undergo continuous development, and therefore, they are subject to change. For the latest version of the documentation, including any updates or changes, please visit our website at www.thomann.de.

Symbols and Signal Words
In this document, you will come across various symbols and signal words with specific meanings:

• DANGER! : This symbol and signal word combination indicates an immediate dangerous situation that can result in death or serious injury if not avoided.
• NOTICE! : This symbol and signal word combination indicates a possible dangerous situation that can result in material and environmental damage if not avoided.

Safety Instructions

• Intended Use: The free solo HT UHF Wireless System is intended for the wireless transmission of audio signals from microphones or instruments to amplifiers or active speakers. It is important to use the device only as described in this user manual. Any other use or use under different operating conditions is considered improper and may result in personal injury or property damage. The manufacturer assumes no liability for damages resulting from improper use.
• This device should only be operated by individuals with sufficient physical, sensorial, and intellectual abilities, as well as the corresponding knowledge and experience. Other individuals may use this device only under the supervision or instruction of someone responsible for their safety.

Installation and Starting Up
Before using the free solo HT UHF Wireless System, it is important to follow the installation and starting up instructions provided in this section:

1. Ensure that all components of the wireless system are included in the package.
2. Read the user manual carefully to familiarize yourself with the product and its features.
3. Choose an appropriate location for the wireless system setup, ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding any physical obstructions.
4. Connect the transmitter unit to the microphone or instrument using the provided cables.
5. Connect the receiver unit to the amplifier or active speakers using the provided cables.
6. Power on both the transmitter and receiver units by following the instructions in the user manual.
7. Perform a system check to ensure proper signal transmission and audio quality.

Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues or problems with the free solo HT UHF Wireless System, please refer to the troubleshooting section of the user manual. It provides step-by-step instructions to diagnose and resolve common issues.

Protecting the Environment
The free solo HT UHF Wireless System is designed with environmental considerations in mind. To protect the environment, please follow these guidelines:

• Dispose of the product and its components in accordance with local regulations and recycling programs.
• Avoid disposing of the product in regular household waste.
• Do not expose the product to extreme temperatures or humidity levels.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Q: Can I use the free solo HT UHF Wireless System for professional audio recordings?
  A: Yes, the free solo HT UHF Wireless System is suitable for professional audio recordings. Ensure that you follow the recommended setup and use high- quality microphones and instruments for optimal results.

• Q: How far can the wireless transmission reach?
  A: The wireless transmission range of the free solo HT UHF Wireless System is approximately 100 meters (330 feet) in an open area. However, this range may vary depending on environmental factors and obstacles.

• Q: Can I use multiple free solo HT UHF Wireless Systems simultaneously?
  A: Yes, it is possible to use multiple free solo HT UHF Wireless Systems simultaneously. However, it is important to ensure that each system is set to a different frequency to avoid interference.

• Q: How do I update the firmware of the free solo HT UHF Wireless System?
  A: Firmware updates for the free solo HT UHF Wireless System can be obtained from our website at www.thomann.de. Please refer to the firmware update instructions provided with the download for detailed steps on how to update the firmware.

General information

This document contains important instructions for the safe operation of the product. Read and follow the safety instructions and all other instructions. Keep the document for future reference. Make sure that it is available to all those using the product. If you sell the product to another user, be sure that they also receive this document.
Our products and documentation are subject to a process of continuous development. They are therefore subject to change. Please refer to the latest version of the documentation, which is ready for download under www.thomann.de.

Symbols and signal words

immediate dangerous situation that will result in death or serious injury if it is not avoided.
NOTICE!| This combination of symbol and signal word indicates a pos‐ sible dangerous situation that can result in material and environmental damage if it is not avoided.
Warning signs| Type of danger
---|---
| Warning – danger zone.

Safety instructions

Intended use

This device is intended to be used for the wireless transmission of audio signals from microphones or instruments to amplifiers or active speakers. Use the device only as described in this user manual. Any other use or use under other operating conditions is considered to be improper and may result in personal injury or property damage. No liability will be assumed for damages resulting from improper use.
This device may be used only by persons with sufficient physical, sensorial, and intellectual abilities and having corresponding knowledge and experience. Other persons may use this device only if they are supervised or instructed by a person who is responsible for their safety.

Safety

DANGER!
Risk of injury and choking hazard for children!
Children can suffocate on packaging material and small parts. Children can injure themselves when handling the device. Never allow children to play with the packaging material and the device. Always store packaging material out of the reach of babies and small children. Always dispose of packaging material properly when it is not in use. Never allow children to use the device without supervision. Keep small parts away from children and make sure that the device does not shed any small parts (such knobs) that children could play with.

• NOTICE!
  Damage to the device if operated in unsuitable ambient conditions!
  The device can be damaged if it is operated in unsuitable ambient conditions. Only operate the device indoors within the ambient conditions specified in the “Technical specifications” chapter of this user manual. Avoid operating it in environments with direct sunlight, heavy dirt and strong vibrations. Avoid operating it in environments with strong temperature fluctuations. If temperature fluctuations cannot be avoided (for example after transport in low outside temperatures), do not switch on the device immediately. Never subject the device to liquids or moisture. Never move the device to another location while it is in operation. In environments with increased dirt levels (for example due to dust, smoke, nicotine or mist): Have the device cleaned by qualified specialists at regular intervals to prevent damage due to overheating and other malfunctions.

• NOTICE!
  Damage to the external power supply due to high voltages!
  The device is powered by an external power supply. The external power supply can be damaged if it is operated with the incorrect voltage or if high voltage peaks occur. In the worst case, excess voltages can also cause a risk of injury and fires. Make sure that the voltage specification on the external power supply matches the local power grid before plugging in the power supply. Only operate the external power supply from professionally installed mains sockets that are protected by a residual current circuit breaker (FI). As a precaution, disconnect the power supply from the power grid when storms are approaching or it the device will not be used for a longer period.

• NOTICE!
  Risk of fire due to incorrect polarity!
  Incorrectly inserted batteries may cause fires and destroy the device and the batteries. Observe the markings on the batteries and on the device. Ensure that proper polarity is observed when inserting batteries.

• NOTICE!
  Possible damage due to leaking batteries!
  Batteries can leak and cause permanent damage to the device. Take the batteries out of the device if it is not going to be used for an extended period of time.

Features

The UHF wireless system is particularly suitable for professional audio transmission, for example at events, on rock stages and in concert halls, theatres, musicals or night clubs.
Your UHF wireless system free solo HT consists of the following components:

• n 9.5-inch diversity receiver
  • Two antennas for optimum reception quality
  • Automatic frequency scanning
  • Infrared interface for sending the frequency selection from the receiver to the transmitter
  • Very high sensitivity at very high signal-to-noise ratio
  • Adjustable squelch
  • Outputs: XLR, 6.35-mm jack socket
  • Mounting bracket for 19-inch rack mounting
  • Power supply: 12 V (DC), a suitable power adapter is included
• n Transmitter: Battery powered handheld cardioid microphone

Depending on the ambient conditions, six systems, or four at 823 MHz, can be operated in parallel and mounted in a rack.
The system operates with pre-programmed frequency groups and, depending on the version, with configurable frequency groups (user groups). The following table shows the number of available pre-programmed groups and the number of pre- programmed frequencies in each group.

Type| Pre-programmed fre‐ quency groups| Available channels per group
---|---|---
the t.bone free solo HT 600 MHz (item no. 296199)| 14| 15
the t.bone free solo HT 823 MHz (item no. 296196)| 8| 8
the t.bone free solo HT 863 MHz (item no. 296197)| 1| 16
the t.bone free solo HT 590 MHz (item no. 380966)| 16 + 2 user groups| 14

Installation and starting up

General Information
Unpack and check carefully there is no transportation damage before using the unit. Keep the equipment packaging. To fully protect the product against vibration, dust and moisture during transportation or storage use the original packaging or your own packaging material suitable for transport or storage, respectively.
Create all connections while the device is off. Use the shortest possible high-quality cables for all connections. Take care when running the cables to prevent tripping hazards.

Notes on wireless transmission

• This device utilizes frequencies that are not harmonized within the European Union (EU) and therefore may only be used in certain EU member states. In all European countries, the frequencies used for the transmission of audio signals are strictly regulated. Before you start, make sure the frequencies are allowed in the respective country and check whether the operation must be reported to the appropriate authority.
  For more information, please visit: http://www.thomann.de.

• Make sure that transmitter and receiver are both tuned to the same channel.

• Never set multiple transmitters to the same channel.

• Make sure that there are no metal objects between the transmitter and receiver.

• Avoid interference from other radio or in-ear systems.

Receiver

Rack mounting
The device is designed for mounting in a standard 19-inch rack; it occupies one rack unit (RU). The fixing material required for assembly is included.

Connecting the power supply

NOTICE!
Damage to the external power supply due to high voltages!
The device is powered by an external power supply. The external power supply can be damaged if it is operated with the incorrect voltage or if high voltage peaks occur. In the worst case, excess voltages can also cause a risk of injury and fires.
Make sure that the voltage specification on the external power supply matches the local power grid before plugging in the power supply.
Only operate the external power supply from professionally installed mains sockets that are protected by a residual current circuit breaker (FI).
As a precaution, disconnect the power supply from the power grid when storms are approaching or it the device will not be used for a longer period.

First, connect the power supply to the receiver and then plug the power supply into the power outlet.

• Attaching the antennas   Attach the included antennas to the back of the transmitter. The antenna can be rotated and swivelled to improve transmission quality and to adapt to spatial conditions.
  If there is not enough space on the device for direct assembly of the antennas, for example because there is not much space in the rack, you can use the optionally available coaxial cable to assemble the antennas separately from the device. An antenna distributor is available as an option for larger combinations with up to four receivers.

• Connecting audio and starting up Connect one of the audio outputs of the receiver to your mixer or your amplifier. Ensure that only one of the two outputs is ever used at a time, because faults might occur otherwise.

Transmitter
Inserting batteries into the transmitter
Unscrew the bottom housing section of the handheld microphone. Insert the batteries. Pay attention to the correct location of the poles. The correct battery arrangement is illustrated in the battery compartment. Close the battery compartment, screw the bottom housing section back on, and switch the transmitter on.

Connections and controls

Receiver
Front

1| [POWER] | Press the switch for several seconds to switch the device on or off.

All previous settings are retained even when you switch the device off and disconnect it from the mains.

---|---
2| Infrared receiver.
3| [ADL] | Starts the synchronisation of the settings with the transmitter.
4| Display.
5| [SET] | Opens the menu.
6| | Increases the displayed value by one.
7| | Decreases the displayed value by one.
8| [AUTO] | Starts an automatic search to find a free channel.
12, 13| Tuned UHF antennas.

The receiver evaluates the radio signal coming from both antennas and selects the signal with the higher quality for further processing.

Back

9| [DC 12-18V] | Socket for connecting the supplied power supply. If you are using a different power supply, observe the correct voltage, the polarity of the plug and the power consumption.
---|---
10| [BALANCED OUTPUT] | XLR panel plug as balanced audio signal output for direct connection to a mixer, power ampli‐ fier or recording device.
11| [UNBALANCED OUTPUT] | 6.35-mm jack socket as unbalanced audio signal output for direct connection to a mixer, power amplifier or recording device.
12, 13| [ANTENNA-B] , [ANTENNA-A] | Tuned UHF antennas. The receiver evaluates the radio signal coming from both antennas and selects the signal with the higher quality for further processing.
14| Indication of the frequency range in which the device operates. The indication here must match the information on the transmitter.

Display

15| [GP] | Displays the selected frequency group.
---|---
16| [CH] | Displays the selected channel.
17| | Indicates that the device is locked to prevent unintentional changes.
18| | Indicates that the receiver is not receiving a signal, e.g. because the transmitter is disabled, the connection is interrupted or the channel is currently changing.
19| [A/B] | Indicates which of the two antennas is currently being used for signal transmission.
20| [SQ] | Shows the set squelch level for the radio signal. Setting the squelch too high will lower the dynamics of the system.
21| [RF] | Shows the level of the received radio signal.
22| Shows the battery status of the transmitter from which the device is currently receiving a signal.
23| [AUTO] | Shows that an automatic search is running to find a free channel.
24| [IR] | Indicates that an infrared signal is being received.
25| [FREQUENCY] | Indicates the frequency that is assigned to the set combination of frequency group and channel.
26| [AF] | Level display for the audio signal.

Transmitter

noises.
33| Main switch

Press the switch for several seconds to switch the device on or off. Press the switch briefly to mute or unmute the microphone. When the transmitter is muted, the  symbol does not appear on the receiver display.

34| Lower housing part. Unscrew to open.
35| [SET] | Opens the menu.
36| [SEL] | Selects a menu item.
37| Indication of the frequency range in which the device operates. The specification here must match the specification printed on the back of the receiver.
38| Battery holder for two round cell batteries (AA, LR06), 1.5 V or comparable rechargeable batteries.
39| Infrared sensor.

Operating

Receiver
Select frequency

1. Press [SET].
   The [GP] display blinks.

2. Use the arrow keys to select the frequency group.
   Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   The [CH] display blinks.

3. Use the arrow keys to select a channel within the set frequency group.
   If you have selected frequency group ‘U’ , you can use the arrow keys to set the fre‐quency directly in 25-kHz increments. First set the value before the decimal point, and press [SET]. Then set the value after the decimal point.
   Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   ð The display shows that the receiver is being adjusted to the new frequency. After a few seconds, the display shows the normal sate again.

Synchronizing transmitter and receiver

1. Open the transmitter to expose the infra red sensor.
2. Press [ADL]. The [IR] display blinks.
3. Hold the infrared sensor of the transmitter near the infrared interface of the receiver within ten seconds.
4. When synchronization has been successfully completed, the [IR] display stops blinking.
   After three seconds, the display shows the default state again.

Set the output level.

In case of model versions for the 1.8 GHz range, you can set the output level directly with the arrow buttons.

In case of other model versions, proceed as follows:

1. Hold down [SET] until the [AF] area blinks on the display.
2. Use the arrow buttons to set the desired value. The current value is shown on the left side of the display.
3. Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   After three seconds, the display shows the default state again.

Setting squelch

1. Hold down [SET] until the [SQ] area blinks on the display.
2. Use the arrow buttons to set the desired value. The current value is shown on the right side of the display.
3. Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   After three seconds, the display shows the default state again.

Automatic search for a free channel

1. Press [AUTO].
   The [AUTO] display blinks; the display shows the number of free channels available.

2. Use the arrow keys to select one of the free channels.
   Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   After three seconds, the display shows the default state again.

3. If the system does not find a free channel within five seconds, it automatically returns to the default state.

Locking or unlocking the keypad

1. Hold down [SET] until the symbol appears.
   All keys except for the main switch are locked.

   • To unlock the keypad, press [SET], until the symbol is no longer visible.
   • The keys have their original function again.

Transmitter
The keys for operating the device are accessible if you unscrew the bottom housing section.

Select frequency

If you don’t wish to synchronize the transmitter with the receiver using the infra red interface, you can set the transmitting frequency manually in the configurable frequency group (user bank).

1. Keep pressing [SET] until the value in the [GP] field blinks on the display.

2. Use [SEL] to select the frequency group.
   Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   The number in the [CH] field blinks.

3. Use [SEL] to select a channel within the set frequency group.

   • If you have selected frequency group “U”, you can use [SEL] to set the frequency directly. First set the value before the decimal point, and press [SET]. Then set the value after the decimal point.
   • Press [SET] to confirm the selection.
   • After a few seconds, the display shows the default state again.

Setting gain

1. Keep pressing [SET] until the number in the [GAIN] field blinks on the display.
2. Use [SEL] to change the transmitter gain in increments of 3 dB (–3 dB, 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB).
Press [SET] to confirm the selection. Press the main switch to close the menu without making any changes.

Technical specifications

Receiver

6.35-mm jack socket, unbalanced
Output level adjustment| 30~3 dB
Frequency range| 584…865 MHz
Bandwidth| the t.bone free solo HT 590 MHz (item no. 380966): 24 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 600 MHz (item no. 296199): 12 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 823 MHz (item no. 296196): 9 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 863 MHz (item no. 296197): 3 MHz
Sensitivity| –102 dBm
Antenna gain| 2.15 dBi
NF frequency response| 50 Hz…15 kHz (±3 dB)
Total harmonic distortion (THD)| < 0.8%
---|---
Signal-to-noise ratio| > 105 dB (A)
Power supply| External power adapter, 100 – 240 V     50/60 Hz
Operating voltage

Dimensions (W × H × D, without antennas)

| Power adapter (12 V     / 1,000 mA, centre positive) 212 mm × 44 mm × 160 mm
Weight| 900 g
**Transmitter**| Frequency range, bandwidth and ambient conditions correspond to those of the transmitter.
Frequency range| 584…865 MHz
Max. transmission power| the t.bone free solo HT 590 MHz (item no. 380966): 20 mW
the t.bone free solo HT 600 MHz (item no. 296199): 20 mW
the t.bone free solo HT 823 MHz (item no. 296196): 20 mW
the t.bone free solo HT 863 MHz (item no. 296197): 10 mW
Maximum input level| > 500 mV
Frequency band| the t.bone free solo HT 590 MHz (item no. 380966): 584 MHz…608 MHz
---|---
the t.bone free solo HT 600 MHz (item no. 296199): 596 MHz…620 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 823 MHz (item no. 296196): 823 MHz…832 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 863 MHz (item no. 296197): 863 MHz…865 MHz
Bandwidth| the t.bone free solo HT 590 MHz (item no. 380966): 24 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 600 MHz (item no. 296199): 12 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 823 MHz (item no. 296196): 9 MHz
the t.bone free solo HT 863 MHz (item no. 296197): 3 MHz
Switching bandwidth| 25 kHz
Modulation type| Frequency modulation (FM)
Input impedance| 5 KΩ
Range in clear field of vision| > 70 mW
Range of the infrared connec‐ tion for the synchronization between transmitter and receiver| 80 mm
Peak deviation| ± 55 kHz
NF frequency response| 60 Hz…18 kHz
Total harmonic distortion| < 0.5%
---|---
Signal-to-noise ratio| > 102 dB (A)
Spurious rejection| > 55 dBc
Power supply| 2 round cell batteries (AA, LR06, 1.5 V) or comparable rechargeable batteries
Operating time| > 8 h (with alkaline cells)
Dimensions (L × D)| 246 mm × 53 mm
Weight| 250 g
Ambient conditions| Temperature range| 0 °C…40 °C
Relative humidity| 20%…80% (non-condensing)

Plug and connection assignment

Introduction
This chapter will help you select the right cables and plugs to connect your valuable equip‐ment in such a way that a perfect sound experience is ensured.
Please note these advices, because especially in ‘Sound & Light’ caution is indicated: Even if a plug fits into the socket, an incorrect connection may result in a destroyed power amp, a short circuit or ‘just’ in poor transmission quality!
Balanced and unbalanced trans‐mission
Unbalanced transmission is mainly used in semi-professional environment and in hifi use. Instrument cables with two conductors (one core plus shielding) are typical representatives of the unbalanced transmission. One conductor is ground and shielding while the signal is trans‐mitted through the core.
Unbalanced transmission is susceptible to electromagnetic interference, especially at low levels, such as microphone signals and when using long cables.
In a professional environment, therefore, the balanced transmission is preferred, because this enables an undisturbed transmission of signals over long distances. In addition to the conduc‐tors ‘Ground’ and ‘Signal’, in a balanced transmission a second core is added. This also transfers the signal, but phase-shifted by 180°.
Since the interference affects both cores equally, by subtracting the phase- shifted signals, the interfering signal is completely neutralized. The result is a pure signal without any noise inter‐ference.

1/4″ TS phone plug (mono, unbalanced)

Troubleshooting

In the following we list a few common problems that may occur during operation. We give you some suggestions for easy troubleshooting:

Make sure that transmitter and receiver are operating in the same frequency range. The frequency range can be found on the devices.
Are transmitter and receiver set to the same channel?
Test the connection between the receiver and the connected audio device (amplifier, mixer). Is the connected audio device turned on and does the signal level at the output of the receiver match the input requirements of the audio device?
See if the audio transmission works when you move the transmitter closer to the receiver.
Make sure that no metal objects near the transmitter or receiver obstruct the transmission.
Transmission is interrupted.| Modify the orientation of the antennas.
If you use more than one wireless system at the same time, check the used frequencies and channels.
Interference can also be caused by other radio or in-ear systems.

If the procedures recommended above do not succeed, please contact our Service Center. You can find the contact information at www.thomann.de.

Protecting the environment

Disposal of the packing material

Environmentally friendly materials have been chosen for the packaging. These materials can be sent for normal recycling. Ensure that plastic bags, packaging, etc. are disposed of in the proper manner.
Do not dispose of these materials with your normal household waste, but make sure that they are collected for recycling. Please follow the instructions and markings on the packaging.
Observe the disposal note regarding documentation in France.

Disposal of batteries

Batteries do contain some hazardous chemicals so they should not be thrown away with the normal household waste. Use the available collection sites.
Before disposing of your old device, remove the batteries if this is possible without destroying it.
Dispose of the batteries or rechargeable batteries at suitable collection points or through your local waste facility.

Disposal of your old device

• This product is subject to the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) as amended.
• Do not dispose of your old device with your normal household waste; instead, deliver it for controlled disposal by an approved waste disposal firm or through your local waste facility.
• When disposing of the device, comply with the rules and regulations that apply in your country. If in doubt, consult your local waste management facility. Proper disposal protects the environment as well as the health of your fellow human beings.
• Also note that waste avoidance is a valuable contribution to environmental protection. Repairing a device or passing it on to another user is an ecologically valuable alternative to disposal.
• You can return your old device to Thomann GmbH at no charge. Check the current conditions on www.thomann.de.
• If your old device contains personal data, delete those data before disposing of it.

References

• Buy musical instruments online from the market leader – Thomann United States

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