Lindell Audio PE-X-500 Multi-Purpose Amplifier Owner’s Manual

Lindell Audio PE-X-500 Multi-Purpose Amplifier

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE 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 of 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 operatingand maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture, and objects filled with liquids, such as vases, should not be placed on this apparatus.
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.
CAUTION: For continued protection against risk of fire, replace the fuse only with the same amperage and voltage type. Refer replacement to qualified service personnel.
WARNING: Unit may become hot. Always provide adequate ven-tilation to allow for cooling. Do not place near a heat source, or in spaces that can restrict ventilation.

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 of the ventilation openings. Install in accor-dance with 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 plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. The wide blade is provided for your safety. When the provid-ed plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for 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.
    Only use the attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

11. Use only with a 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.

12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when un-used for long periods of time.

13. 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.

WARNING : To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Avoid installing this unit where foreign objects may fall onto this unit and/or this unit may be exposed to liquid dripping or splashing. On the top of this unit, do not place:

• Burning objects (i.e. candles), as they may cause fire damage to this unit, and/or personal injury.
• Containers with liquid in them, as they may fall and liquid may cause electrical shock to the user and/or damage to this unit.

Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.|
Do not install this equipment in a confined space such as a case or similar. Install it away from direct sunlight, heat sources, vibra-tion, dust, moisture, and/or cold.
Do not cover this unit with a newspaper, tablecloth, curtain, etc. in order not to obstruct heat radiation. If the temperature inside this unit rises, it may cause fire, damage to this unit, and/or per-sonal injury.
Install this unit near the AC outlet and where the AC power plug can be reached easily.
This unit is not disconnected from the AC power source when it is turned off. This state is called the standby mode. In this state, this unit is designed to consume a very small quantity of power.

CAUTION: Top surface can become hot.
CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the oper-ating instructions unless you are qualified to do so.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this equipment not ex-pressly approved by Paradigm for compliance could void the us-er’s authority to operate this equipment.

FCC WARNING

Changes or modifications not expressly ap-proved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
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 protec-tion against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency en-ergy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the in- structions, may cause harmful interference to radio communi-cations. 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 X-500.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the X-500 is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technician for help

DO NOT LOCATE IN THE FOLLOWING PLACES:

To ensure long-lasting use, do not locate the unit:

• Exposed to direct sunlight.
• Near sources of heat such as heaters.
• Highly humid or poorly ventilated.
• Dusty.
• Subjected to mechanical vibrations.
• On wobbly, inclined, or otherwise unstable surfaces.
• Near windows where there is a chance of exposure to rain, etc.
• On top of an X-500 or another component which dissipates a great deal of heat.

To ensure proper heat radiation, ensure clearance from walls and other equipment according to the diagram.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR UK CUSTOMERS : DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this equipment. If the plug fitted is not suit-able for the power points in your home or the cable is too short to reach a power point, then obtain an appropriate safety approved extension lead or consult your dealer. If, nonetheless, the mains plug is cut off, REMOVE THE FUSE and dispose of the PLUG imme-diately, to avoid possible shock hazard by inadvertent connection to the mains supply. If this product is not provided with a mains plug, or one has to be fitted, then follow the instructions given below:
IMPORTANT: DO NOT make any connection to the larger terminal which is marked with the letter “E” or by the safety earth symbol or colored GREEN or GREEN AND YELLOW.

The wires in the mains lead on this product are colored in accor-dance with the following code:

• BLUE — NEUTRAL
• BROWN — LIVE

As these colors may not correspond with the colored markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

• The BLUE wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter N or colored BLACK.
• The BROWN wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter L or colored RED.

When replacing the fuse, only a correctly rated and approved type should be used, and be sure to refit the fuse cover. If in doubt, con-sult a competent electrician.

NOTES ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

At the end of its useful life, this product must not be disposed of with regular household waste but must be returned to a collec-tion point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. The symbol on the product, the user’s manual, and the packag-ing point this out. The materials can be reused in accordance with their markings. Through reuse, recycling of raw materials or other forms of recycling of old products, you are making an important contribution to the protection of our environment. Your local administrative office can advise you of the responsible waste disposal point.

RECYCLING AND REUSE GUIDELINES (Europe)

In accordance with the European Union WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive effective August 13, 2005, we would like to notify you that this product may contain regulat-ed materials which, upon disposal, require special reuse and re-cycling processing. For this reason, Paradigm has arranged with its distributors in European Union member nations to collect and recycle this product at no cost to you. To find your local distrib-utor, please contact the dealer from whom you purchased this product or go to our website at paradigm.com.
Please note that only the product falls under the WEEE directive. When disposing of packaging and other shipping material, we encourage you to recycle through the usual channels.

Paradigm and any related party assume no liability for the user’s failure to comply with any requirements. Paradigm is registered trademarks of Paradigm Electronics Inc. © Paradigm Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. The information contained herein may not be reproduced in whole or in part without our express written permission. We re-serve the right to change specifications or features without no-tice as design improvements are incorporated. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.3

INTRODUCTION AND QUICK START

Thank you for purchasing the Paradigm X-500. All Paradigm products are engineered to recreate the passion of a live musical performance and emotional involvement experienced in the best movie theaters by utilizing the highest level of circuit design, superior parts and manufacturing techniques, innovative features, and intuitive ergonomics. We are confident that their inclusion in a system significantly enhances the enjoyment of recordings.

BEFORE MAKING CONNECTIONS

Check that you have received all items listed below and report discrepancies to your dealer as soon as possible. In case the X-500 needs to be transported in the future, keep the packing materials. Retain the invoice that you received from your authorized Paradigm dealer at time of purchase. The invoice is necessary to obtain service under warranty.

BOX CONTENTS

• X-500 Amplifier
• Rack Mount Ears
• Euroblock Connectors (Preinstalled)
• Power cord

IN-USE NOTICES

• Disconnect the power cord or flip the AC switch to OFF before connecting or disconnecting any components.
• If the X-500 was transported or stored in the cold, let it reach room temperature before use.
• Do not remove the top cover.
• Do not modify the product.
• Due to continuing advances, operational characteristics may change. If this manual contains discrepancies, please check paradigm.com for the latest manual.

RACK AND SHELF MOUNTING

The X-500 ships with both rack mount ears and feet for shelf mounting. Before rack mounting the unit, it is recommended to remove the feet on the bottom of the unit. To attach the rack mount ears, install as shown in the following diagram.

If a dual amplifier installation is desired, an optional MPX500CB Connector Bracket (sold separately) is available. This bracket connector affixes two amplifiers side-by-side, as shown in the following diagram.

FRONT PANEL (STATUS LIGHTS)

1. Power:
2. Blue = Unit is on and ready to play
3. Red = Unit is in standby or a fault condition has occurred Off = No AC power/AC power switch turned off
4. STEREO:
5. Blue = Amplifier playing in Stereo mode
6. Red = A Fault Condition has occurred
7. Off = No stereo input signal detected (or amplifier is operating in Subwoofer mode)
8. Sub:
9. Blue = Amplifier playing in Subwoofer mode
10. Red = A fault condition has occurred
11. Off = No subwoofer input signal detected (or amplifier is operating in Stereo mode)

For more information, please refer to sections 6 (Fault Modes) and 7 (Troubleshooting).

BACK PANEL

1. Trigger input
2. Coaxial digital audio input
3. Analog RCA stereo inputs
4. Power cord inlet (IEC C18 type)
5. Power: Main power switch ON/OFF
6. Volume: -60dB to 0dB
7. Subwoofer input
8. Optical digital audio input
9. Trigger Pass-through
10. DIP Switches: Digital Input and DSP Preset Selection
11. PC Update (USB) for Firmware Updates
12. Euroblock speaker terminals

For more information, please refer to section 3 (Connections and Back Panel Controls).

QUICK START

This quick start section includes just enough information to get the X-500 operational. For a deeper understanding of speaker and subwoofer connection options, please review the rest of this manual.

1. The X-500 comes out of the box with the shelf/tabletop feet installed. When rack mounting is desired, these feet can be removed using a Phillips screwdriver. The included rack mount ears can be attached using a T10 Torx driver (not included).

2. Speaker Connection(s):
   Connect a pair of speakers using a Euroblock (aka PhoenixTM) connector (included) which accepts speaker wire from 28 up to 12 gauge.

3. Pull both sides of the Euroblock connector to remove it from the X-500.

4. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.

5. Follow positive (+) and negative (-) indications shown on the Euroblock connector.

6. After attaching speaker wires to the Euroblock connector, insert it back into the X-500.

7. Subwoofer Connection:
   Follow the steps in “Step 2” except use the positive (+) and negative (-) indicators for “Bridge Mode” as shown on the text printed below the Euroblock connector on the X-500 chassis.
   Stereo and Bridge mode cannot be used simultaneously

8. Input Connection(s):
   Connect Analog sources using RCA cables. Connect Digital sources using a Digital Coax or Optical cable. When being used to drive a subwoofer, connect the subwoofer out of your source device to the subwoofer input on the X-500.
   If using the digital inputs, you must select Coax or Optical using the DIP switch on the back of the X-500 (#10 on the image on page 7).

9. Power Connection:
   Insert a power cord into the X-500’s AC input. Plug the cord into a wall outlet. Make sure to respect the voltage rating shown beside the AC receptacle.

10. Volume Control:
    The X-500 has an onboard volume control if needed. However, typically the X-500 will be used with a source that offers its own volume control (like a streaming device or used with an AV Receiver when driving a subwoofer). In this case the X-500’s onboard volume control can effectively be used as a basic vol-ume limiter instead. When being used in this manner, you can set the X-500’s volume control to maximum, and then control the overall volume through your source. If audible distortion occurs, turn down the volume control on the X-500 until the sound no longer distorts.

CONNECTIONS AND BACK PANEL CONTROLS

SPEAKER CONNECTIONS

Depending on the level of the input signal, the voltage at the outputs can be high enough to cause electric shock — be sure that power is off when connecting or disconnecting anything. As well, be sure to use speakers rated for use with this X-500 — an overdriven speaker can pose a fire hazard.

X-500 offers options to power either a stereo pair of speakers (or a system like the Paradigm Garden Essentials Outdoor Music System), or a passive subwoofer (custom install subwoofer).
When powering a custom installation subwoofer, the X-500 can be configured in “bridged mode” which combines the output of both amplifier channels in order to provide this speaker with more power.

CONNECTING STEREO SPEAKERS

(or Paradigm Garden Oasis Essentials Outdoor Music System)
Connect a pair of speakers to the X-500 using a Euroblock (also known as a PhoenixTM) connector. These connectors are included with the X-500 and come preinstalled.
Euroblock connectors accept speaker wire up to 12 gauge. Use speakers as low as 4 Ohms in this configuration.

1. Remove the Euroblock connector from the X-500 by gently pulling it until it releases.
2. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.
3. Connect the red (+) connection on the left speaker to the positive (L+) contact on the Euroblock connector as indicated by the printing located on the X-500 (above the connector) or on the connector itself.
4. Connect the black (-) connection on the left speaker to the negative (L-) contact on the Euroblock connector as indicated by the printing located on the X-500 (above the connector) or on the connector itself.
5. Repeat for the right channel.
6. After attaching speaker wires to the Euroblock connector, insert it into the X-500 by gently pressing it into place.

CONNECTING A PASSIVE (NON-POWERED) SUBWOOFER

This mode only supports subwoofers rated at 8 Ohms or higher. Bridged Mode increases the amplifier power available for a single speaker. This function is designed for passive subwoofers that require external amplification and can be enabled using the below method:

1. Remove the Euroblock connector from the X-500 by gently pulling it until it releases.
2. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.
3. Connect the red (+) connection of the subwoofer to the positive (Bridge +) contact on the Euroblock connector as indicated by the printing located on the X-500 (below the connector).
4. Connect the black (-) connection of the subwoofer to the negative (Bridge -) contact on the Euroblock connector as indicated by the printing located on the X-500 (below the connector).
5. After attaching subwoofer wires to the Euroblock connector, insert it into the X-500 by gently pressing it into place

CONNECTING DUAL DEFIANCE CUSTOM IN-WALL SUBWOOFERS

For maximum performance, Paradigm recommends using an X-500 for each subwoofer in the system. When running 2 subwoofers from a single amplifier is required, the X-500 can drive dual subs in a “bridged parrallel” configuration. Note: This configuration is only recommended with Paradigm Defiance Custom In-Wall subwoofers and you must use the “Dual Subwoofer DSP Preset Profiles” as outlined in the DSP Profile Section

1. Remove the Euroblock connector from the X-500 by gently pulling it until it releases.
2. Use a small slotted screwdriver to loosen and tighten each contact on the Euroblock when inserting the speaker wire.
3. Connect the red (+) connection of each subwoofer to the positive (Bridge +) contact on the Euroblock connector as indicated by the printing located on the X-500 (below the connector).
4. Connect the black (-) connection of each subwoofer to the negative (Bridge -) contact on the Euroblock connector as indicated by the printing located on the X-500 (below the connector).
5. After attaching subwoofer wires to the Euroblock connector, insert it into the X-500 by gently pressing it into place.

DIGITAL INPUT

Stereo digital audio sources can be connected using coaxial or optical cables. The X-500 has one digital optical input, and one digital coaxial input. Both of these inputs support the PCM stereo format (up to 24-bit / 96kHz). If using sources that have an option for selecting between PCM and Bitstream (or Dolby Digital) audio output, select PCM. If the source outputs a non-PCM stream (such as a Dolby or DTS stream), the audio will mute.
Using the DIP switch on the back of the X-500 (See image on Pg. 7) you can select either the Coax or Optical inputs, but only 1 may be used at a time.

ANALOG INPUTS

Connect stereo analog sources using RCA cables.

SUBWOOFER INPUT

The X-500 has multiple subwoofer preset configurations to simplify connection to an AV Receiver or AV Preamp (or source component) with a subwoofer output. Connect the subwoofer output of your preamp/processor/source using an RCA cable to either the Analog RCA (R — right), Analog RCA (L — left), or Subwoofer Input. The Analog RCA (R — right), Analog RCA (L — left) inputs will pass through a low-pass filter before being passed to the amplifier. The Subwoofer Input signal is passed directly to the amplifier. If needed, all three RCA inputs can be used simultaneously

POWER

Insert a power cord into the X-500’s AC input. Plug the cord into a wall outlet. Ensure that the AC supply matches the voltage rating shown on the back of the X-500.

TRIGGER CONNECTIONS

The trigger connection allows the X-500 to be turned on or off via the trigger input. When the Trig In 3.5mm (1/8”) mini- jack receives power (5–24 volts DC or AC) from an upstream component, the X-500 turns on (Auto-On delay applies). When it stops receiving power, the X-500 turns off immediately. The Trig Out jack allows you to run a cable out to daisy-chain and trigger additional X-500’s or another component that uses a trigger in. The trigger out on the X-500 passes through the signal received from the trigger input.

MASTER POWER SWITCH

This switch is wired directly to the AC mains and turns on and off all power going to the X-500.

USB CONNECTION

A USB connection is present for updating the DSP presets available on the amplifier. Instructions for updating the DSP presets will be provided with the DSP Update file. This connection

DSP PRESETS

The X-500 is loaded with a variety of DSP presets to both improve performance of the speaker, but also to protect it from being overdriven by the amplifier.
DSP preset availability will change over time, and can be updated via the USB connection on the back of the amplifier. For the most up to date list of presets, please refer to the X-500 product page on paradigm.com.
Using the bank of dip switches on the back of the amplifier you may choose from the following DSP preset options:..

DIP Switch Functionality

Pin1: SPDIF select. Optical/Coaxial

Pins 2-5: 16 groups of EQ presets
ex: Pins 2-6: 00000=EQ0
ex: Pins 2-6: 10000=EQ16
ex: Pins 2-6: 11111=EQ31

DSP PRESET DIP SWITCH POSITIONS

X-500 ships in its Flat EQ, 2 Channel, Full Range, Stereo output mode. To view the most up to date list of custom DSP Preset options available, please visit the X-500 product page on paradigm.com: www.paradigm.com/en/sub-amps/x-500 The firmware update section of this page will always contain the latest DSP Preset list and the DSP/Firmware update file. Updating your X-500’s DSP/Firmware is easily done using a Windows PC and a commonly available Micro USB cable (Not Included) by following the instructions posted with the update file.

FAULT MODES

FRONT PANEL POWER LED

FRONT PANEL ZONE LEDS

Power LED| Stereo LED| Subwoofer LED| Status or Fault| Clear Fault
---|---|---|---|---
Blue| Off| —| X-500 enabled, no music detected.| —
Blue| Blue| —| Stereo operation: X-500 enabled, music playing.| —
Blue| —| Off| X-500 enabled, no music detected.| —
Blue| —| Blue| Subwoofer operation:

X-500 enabled, music playing.

| —
Blue| Red flashing| —| AMP fault. over current / DC Fault. / Stereo operation.| Self-recovery
Blue| Blue flashing| —| AMP over temp. Stereo operation.| Self-recovery
Blue| Red| —| AMP mute. When AMP temp over upper limit. Stereo operation.| Self-recovery
Red| Red| —| Power supply over current. Stereo operation.| To clear this fault condition, cycle the power by turning off AC power. Wait 1 minute before turning the X-500 back on.
Blue| —| Red flashing| AMP fault. over current / DC Fault. Subwoofer operation.| Self-recovery
Blue| —| Blue flashing| AMP over temp. Subwoofer operation.| Self-recovery
Blue| —| Red| AMP mute. When AMP temp over upper limit. Subwoofer operation.| Self-recovery
Red| —| Red| Power supply over current. Subwoofer operation.| To clear this fault condition, cycle the power by turning off AC power. Wait 1 minute before turning the X-500 back on.
Blue / Red| —| —| Software error. Initialization error.(DSP/Codec failure).| To clear this fault condition, cycle the power by turning off AC power.
Red| —| —| Standby| —

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the difference between the stereo analog inputs and the subwoofer input?

The Subwoofer Input
This input connects to the subwoofer output of an AV pro-cessor or AV receiver with bass-management functions as part of its signal routing. It is only active when a subwoofer speaker preset is selected.

The Analog RCA (R — right) and Left (L — left) Inputs

• With a subwoofer speaker preset, the Analog RCA (R — right) and Left (L — left) inputs allow a stereo signal source to drive a subwoofer without the voices or other high-frequency content being heard through the subwoofer. This preset enables the subwoofer to be connected to these inputs even when the signal source contains a full range of information. This preset is ideal when the source equipment does not have built-in bass management.
• With a Stereo Speaker Preset, the full range signals play through the main speakers

SPECIFICATIONS

LIMITED WARRANTY

IMPORTANT! The amplifiers covered by this manual is de-signed for use with matching Paradigm® and Paradigm® Ref-erence in-wall/in-ceiling subwoofers only. Use with any other brand of subwoofer can cause permanent damage and will void the Paradigm warranty.
Paradigm® and Paradigm® Reference amplifiers are warranted to be and remain free of manufacturing and/or material defects for a period of three (3) years from the date of the original retail purchase. Within this specified period, repair, replacement or ad-justment of parts for manufacturing and/or material defects will be free of charge. Thermal or mechanical abuse/ misuse is not covered under warranty.

Limitations:

• Warranty begins on date of original retail purchase from an Authorized Paradigm® or Paradigm® Reference Dealer only. It is not transferable;
• Warranty applies to product in normal home use only. If the product is subjected to any of the conditions outlined in the next section, warranty is void;
• Warranty does not apply if the product is used in profession-al or commercial applications.

Warranty is Void if:

• The product has been abused (intentionally or accidentally);
• The product has been used in conjunction with unsuitable or faulty equipment;
• The product has been subjected to damaging signals, derangement in transport, mechanical damage or any abnormal conditions;
• The product has been tampered with or damaged by an unauthorized service facility;
• The serial number has been removed or defaced.

Owner Responsibilities:

• Provide normal/reasonable operating care and maintenance;
• Provide or pay for transportation charges for product to ser-vice facility;
• Provide proof of purchase (your sales receipt given at time of purchase from your Authorized Paradigm® Reference Dealer).

Should servicing be required, contact your nearest Authorized Paradigm® or Paradigm® Reference Dealer, Paradigm Electron-ics Inc., or Import Distributor (outside the U.S. and Canada) to arrange, bring in or ship prepaid any defective unit. Visit our web-site at paradigm.com for more information.
Paradigm Electronics Inc. reserves the right to improve the de-sign of any product without assuming any obligation to modify any product previously manufactured.
This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties expressed or im-plied, of merchantability, fitness for any particular purpose and may not be extended or enlarged by anyone. In no event shall Paradigm Electronics Inc., their agents, or representatives be re-sponsible for any incidental or consequential damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.
Retain this manual and your sales receipt for proof of war-ranty term and proof of purchase.

THE BIG PICTURE: X-500

paradigm.com
©2022 Paradigm Electronics Inc. All rights reserved.

References

• Paradigm® | High Performance Audio - Crafted in Canada
• Paradigm® | X-500

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