d and b D90 Audio Technik Amplifier Instruction Manual

d and b D90 Audio Technik Amplifier

Product Information

Specifications:

• Model: d&b D90
• Version: 1.1
• Intended Use : Mobile applications with d&b loudspeakers
• Compliance: EN 55032:2019 for electromagnetic compatibility

Important Safety Instructions:
It is crucial to follow these safety instructions to ensure safe operation of the product:

1. Keep these instructions for future reference.
2. Read and heed all warnings.
3. Follow all instructions provided.
4. Never connect an output pin to any other amplifier input or output pin or to the earth (ground).
5. Lay all cables carefully to avoid damage or tripping hazards.
6. Use the mains plug as the disconnecting device and keep it accessible.
7. An experienced user must supervise equipment usage, especially with inexperienced users.

Product Usage Instructions

Intended Use:
The d&b D90 amplifier is designed for mobile applications and should be used with compatible d&b loudspeakers. It can be utilized as a linear power amplifier in LINEAR mode.

Safety Precautions:
Do not remove top or bottom covers to prevent electric shock. Always refer servicing to qualified personnel. Keep the power supply cord readily operable to disconnect the equipment from the mains. Avoid exposing the apparatus to rain or moisture, and do not place objects filled with liquids on it. Ensure a protective earthing connection for the mains socket outlet.

Electromagnetic Compatibility:
The device complies with EN 55032:2019 requirements for electromagnetic compatibility in a residential environment. Avoid operating near high- frequency transmitters to prevent acoustic interferences and malfunctions.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use third-party loudspeakers with the d &b D90 amplifier in LINEAR mode?
No, d&b audiotechnik does not accept liability for damages to third-party loudspeakers when operated with d&b amplifiers in LINEAR mode.

General information

• D90 Start-up manual
• Version: 1.1 en, 05/2024, D2090.EN .01
• Copyright © 2024 by d&b audiotechnik GmbH & Co. KG; all rights reserved.
• Keep this document with the product or in a safe place so that it is available for future reference.
• We recommend you to regularly check the d&b website for the latest version of this document.
• When reselling this product, hand over this document to the new owner.
• If you supply d&b products, please draw the attention of your customers to this document. Enclose the relevant documents with the systems. If you require additional documents for this purpose, you can order them from d&b.
• d&b audiotechnik GmbH & Co. KG
• Eugen-Adolff-Str. 134, D-71522 Backnang, Germany
• T +49-7191-9669-0, F +49-7191-95 00 00
• docadmin@dbaudio.com, www.dbaudio.com

Explanation of graphical symbols

• The lightning symbol within a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltages” within the unit’s chassis that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to humans.
• The exclamation point within a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and service instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

Before using this product, carefully read the applicable items of the following safety instructions.

1. Keep these instructions for future reference.

2. Read these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock:

   • Do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
   • Keep water or other liquids away from the unit.
   • Do not place liquid filled containers, for example beverages, on top of the unit.
   • Do not operate the unit while it is wet or standing in liquid.

6. Always operate the unit with the chassis ground wire connected to the electrical safety earth.
   Do not defeat the safety purpose of a grounding-type plug. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. 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.

7. Do not use this unit if the power cord is damaged or frayed. Protect the power cord from being walked upon or pinched, particularly at the plugs and the point where it exits from the apparatus.

8.  The unit is intended for use in a 19″ rack. Follow the mounting instructions. When a rack on wheels is used, exercise caution when moving the loaded rack to avoid injury from tipping over.

9. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

10. Never connect an output pin to any other amplifier input or output pin or to the earth (ground). This may damage the unit or lead to electric shock.

11. Lay all cables connected to the unit carefully so that they cannot be crushed by vehicles or other equipment and that no one can either step on them or trip over them.

12. 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 into the unit.
    • An object has fallen into the unit.
    • The unit has been exposed to rain or moisture.
    • The unit does not operate normally.
    • The unit was dropped or the chassis is damaged.
    • Do not remove top or bottom covers. Removal of the covers will expose hazardous voltages. There are no user serviceable parts inside and removal may void the warranty.

13. Use the mains plug as the disconnecting device and keep it readily accessible. If the mains plug is not readily accessible due to mounting in a 19″ equipment cabinet, then the mains plug for the entire rack must be readily accessible.

14. An experienced user must always supervise the equipment, especially if inexperienced adults or minors are using the equipment.

WARNINGS!

• To prevent electric shock do not remove top or bottom covers. No user serviceable parts inside, refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
• To completely disconnect this equipment from the AC mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.
• To reduce risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
• Do not expose this system/apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the apparatus.
• This apparatus must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
• The mains plug is used as a disconnect device and shall remain readily operable.

CAUTION!
To reduce the risk of fi re or electric shock, do not remove screws. No user- serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

Intended use

• The d&b D90 amplifier is designed for mobile applications and is intended to be used with applicable d&b loudspeakers.
• A “LINEAR” setup is available allowing the amplifier to be used as a linear power amplifier.
  Note: d&b audiotechnik will accept no liability for any damages to third- party loudspeakers when operated with d&b amplifiers in “LINEAR” mode.

NOTICE!

• The device complies with the electromagnetic compatibility requirements of EN 55032:2019 (product family standard for audio, video, audio-visual and entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use) for the environment Class B (residential).
• Acoustic interferences and malfunctions may occur if the unit is operated in the immediate vicinity of high-frequency transmitters (e.g. wireless microphones, mobile phones, etc.). Damage to the device is unlikely, but cannot be excluded.

About this manual

• With respect to the vast functionality and high complexity of the device, this manual covers the basic safety instructions as well as the vital technical specifications and instructions for startup.
• A full version of this manual in english language (Þ Reference manual) with comprehensive information is available for download on the related product page of the d&b website at www.dbaudio.com.

Loudspeaker types

• The maximum number of cabinets driven by each channel varies depending on their nominal impedance. It can be found in the respective loudspeaker manual and also in the data section of each loudspeaker product page on the d&b website at www.dbaudio.com.
• The minimum recommended impedance per channel is 4 ohms.
  Nom. impedance| Cabinets per channel
  ---|---
  4 Ω| 1
  8 Ω| 2
  12 Ω| 3
  16 Ω| 4
  20 Ω| 5
• A list of d&b loudspeakers supported by the amplifier is included in the Release notes of the amplifier firmware. The latest version can be found on the related product page of the d&b website at www.dbaudio.com.

Scope of supply

• Before starting up the device, please verify the shipment for completeness and proper condition of the items.
• If there is any sign of obvious damage to the unit and/or the power cord, do not operate the unit and contact your local dealer from whom you received it.
  Pos.| Qty.| d&b Code| Description
  ---|---|---|---
  [1]| 1| Z2860| d&b D90 Amplifier
  Including:
  [1.1]| 1| Z2620.xxx| Power cord (specific to country)
  [2]| 1| D2090.EN .01| d&b D90 Start-up manual.

Technical specifications

• Operating conditions

  • Operating temperature (continuous/short-term) –10 °C … +40/+50 °C (+14 °F … +104*/+122** °F)
  • Storage temperature –20 °C … +70 °C (–4 °F … +158 °F)
  • Humidity (rel.), non-condensating < 70 %

• Power supply
  Switched mode power supply with automatic mains range selection and active Power Factor Correction (PFC).

  • Mains connector powerCON-HC®
  • Mains fuse internal
  • Rated mains voltage (High range) 208 – 240 V, 50 – 60 Hz
  • Rated mains current (High range) 16 A
  • Rated mains voltage (Low range) 100 – 127 V, 50 – 60 Hz
  • Rated mains current (Low range) 30 A

• Protection circuits

  • Mains and power supply: Overvoltage and undervoltage, inrush current limiter, internal fuse.
  • Output: Overcurrent, DC offset, HF voltage limiter, pop-noise suppression.
  • Cooling: Temperature-dependent RPM of fan, self-resetting overtemperature protection.

• Power consumption (typical values)

  • Standby 17 W
  • Idling 160 W
  • Peak output 3625 W

• **Audio power outputs***

  • SPEAKER OUTPUTS A/B/C/D 4 x NL4
  • SPEAKER OUTPUTS A/B MIX|2-WAY / C/D MIX|2-WAY 2 x NL4
  • 4 CHANNEL OUTPUT 1 x NL8
  • Maximum output voltage/current 210 Vpeak/78 Apeak
  • Output power rating EIA-426B noise CF 12 dB
  • 4 x 2700 W/8 Ω
  • 4 x 5400 W/4 Ω
  • Sine wave 1 kHz, long term, +40 °C (+104 °F) 4 x 450 W/4 Ω
  • Frequency response (–1 dB, Linear mode) 35 Hz – 25 kHz
  • Gain (Linear mode @ 0 dB) 31 dB

• Output noise/Dynamic range
  Output noise (BW 20 kHz)/dynamic range (BW 20 kHz, reference 210 Vpk)

  • Analog input 235 μVRMS/116 dB
  • Analog input, A-weighting 185 μVRMS/118 dB
  • Digital input 170 μVRMS/119 dB
  • Digital input, A-weighting 135 μVRMS/121 dB

• THD+N / Crosstalk
  THD+N (unweighted, 20 – 20 kHz)

  • 4 x 450 W/8 ohms < –80 dB/0.01 %
  • 4 x 450 W/4 ohms < –74 dB/0.02 %
  • Crosstalk (20 – 20 kHz) < –70 dBr
  • 4 x 450 W into 8/4 Ω

• Analog inputs and outputs

  • INPUT A1 – A4 3 pin XLR female
  • Pin assignment 1 = GND, 2 = pos., 3 = neg.
  • Input impedance 32 kΩ, electronically balanced
  • CMRR @ 100 Hz/1 kHz / 10 kHz >80/>80/>70 dB
  • Maximum input level (balanced/unbalanced)
  • +25/+18 dBu
  • +27.3 dBu @ 0 dBFS
  • LINK A1 – A4, parallel to input 3 pin XLR male
  • Pin assignment 1 = GND, 2 = pos., 3 = neg.

• Digital inputs and outputs

  • IN – D1/2, D3/4 3 pin XLR female, AES3
  • Pin assignment 1 = GND, 2 = AES Signal, 3 = AES Signal
  • Input impedance 110 Ω, transformer balanced
  • Sampling frequency 44.1 | 48 | 96 | 192 kHz
  • Word length 16 – 24 bit
  • OUT – D1/2, D3/4
  • 3 pin XLR male
  • electronically balanced
  • Output modes
  • Mains on: analog signal buffering (refresh)
  • Mains off/power fail: bypass relay

• Network (PRI/SEC)

  • Connector type 2 x RJ 45 (etherCON®)
  • PRI Remote control via R1, Star topology
  • SEC Currently disabled

• IP settings (factory default)

  • IP address/Subnet mask 192.168.1.90/255.255.255.0

• Digital Signal Processing

  • System start-up time < 21 sec.
  • Time to tone (Standby/Ready Standby) < 4/< 1 sec.
  • Time to tone (Off/Wake on Audio) < 21 /< 4 sec.
  • Conversion 96 kHz
  • Latency analog/digital (AES) input 0.3/0.3 msec.
  • A/D conversion 27 Bit (dual-stacked A/D converters)
  • Internal processing Combination of high-resolution fixed point and floating point processing
  • Equalizer
  • two user definable 16-band equalizers
  • Filter types: PEQ/Notch/HiShlv/LoShlv/Asym
  • Delay 0.3 msec. – 10 sec.
  • Frequency generator Pink noise or Sine wave 10 Hz – 20 kHz

• Controls and indicators

  • POWER Mains power switch
  • SCROLL/EDIT Digital rotary encoder
  • TFT color touchscreen 4.3″/480 x 272 pixels

• Fan noise emission

  • Rack mounted, measured on axis, 1 m (3.3 ft) to front panel, A-weighting. Min./Max. RPM
  • 27/50 dB(A)
  • Ambient temperature 23 °C/73.4 °F

• Dimensions and weight

  • Height x width x depth 2 RU x 19″ x 465 mm (18.3″)
  • Weight 18.8 kg/41.5 lb

Audio power output – Measurement references:

• All data is valid for 23 °C (73.4 °F) ambient temperature and 230 V AC/50 Hz mains supply.
• The power rating of noise signals is defined as the maximum of the instantaneous output power divided by a factor of two.
• The power of burst signals refers to the power during the “on” period.

• The duration of the peak output of a sine wave signal is defined at a drop of 0.5 dB/10% relative to the maximum output power.
  EIA-426B noise

  Crest factor| Load [ohms]| Power rating [W]| Power average [W]
  12 dB| 8

4

| 4 x 2700

4 x 5400

| 4 x 337.5

4 x 675

9 dB| 8

4

| 4 x 2700

4 x 2700

| 4 x 675

4 x 675

6 dB| 8

4

| 4 x 1450

4 x 1400

| 4 x 725

4 x 700

1 kHz burst
On/off time| Load [ohms]| Power [W]
20 ms/0 dB

480 ms/–20 dB

| 8

4

| 4 x 2000

4 x 2600

200 ms/0 dB

600 ms/–20 dB

| 8

4

| 4 x 1450

4 x 1450

1 kHz sine wave
Channels used| Load [ohms]| Max. output power [W]| Duration of max. output
1| 8

4

| 1 x 2700

1 x 5400

| > 10 s

2.2 s

4| 8

4

| 4 x 2700

4 x 5400

| 6 ms

3 ms

Measurement references
For all noise signals, the values are measured at the maximum level just before any amplifier limiter activity (no Gain Reduction).

• Noise CF 12 dB: Noise signal according to EIA-426-B with a crest factor of 12 dB.
  This represents the use case of live music or less compressed recorded music.

• Noise CF 9 dB: Noise signal according to EIA-426-B with a crest factor of 9 dB.
  This represents the use case of music with medium compression.

• Noise CF 6 dB: Noise signal according to EIA-426-B with a crest factor of 6 dB.
  This represents the use case of heavily compressed music.

• Sine wave (100 ms): 1 kHz sine wave signal, 0 dBFS input level and a duration of 1 s.

  • The RMS current value is calculated over a 100 ms time window.
  • This window is stepped in increments of 10 ms over the recording.

  • The resulting value is the highest current within a window of 100 ms.
    230 VAC / 50 Hz / 0.5 Ω Source impedance – all channels driven

    State| Load [ohms]| Mains current [A RMS]| Power factor| Input power [W]| Output power [W]| Power loss [W]| BTU/hr| kCal/hr
    Off| –| 0.15| 0.08| 2.6| –| 2.6| 9| 2
    Standby| –| 0.21| 0.36| 16.7| –| 16.7| 57| 14
    Standby/Wake on Audio| –| 0.22| 0.45| 23| –| 23| 78| 20
    ReadyStandby| –| 0.52| 0.66| 78.9| –| 78.9| 269| 68
    Eco| –| 0.77| 0.73| 128| –| 128| 437| 110
    Idling| –| 0.92| 0.74| 155| –| 155| 529| 133
    Noise CF 12 dB| 8

4

| 8.0

15.5

| 0.97

0.98

| 1775

3475

| 1350

2700

| 425

775

| 1450

2644

| 366

667

Noise CF 9 dB| 8

4

| 14.9

15.6

| 0.99

0.99

| 3350

3500

| 2700

2700

| 650

800

| 2218

2729

| 559

688

Noise CF 6 dB| 8

4

| 15.9

16.1

| 0.99

0.99

| 3600

3625

| 2900

2800

| 700

825

| 2388

2815

| 602

710

Sine wave max. 1 s| 8

4

| 30.1

29.7

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

208 VAC / 60 Hz / 0.5 Ω Source impedance – all channels driven

State| Load [ohms]| Mains current [A RMS]| Power factor| Input power [W]| Output power [W]| Power loss [W]| BTU/hr| kCal/hr
Off| –| 0.16| 0.06| 2.1| –| 2.1| 7| 2
Standby| –| 0.22| 0.35| 16.1| –| 16.1| 55| 14
Standby/Wake on Audio| –| 0.25| 0.47| 24| –| 24| 82| 21
ReadyStandby| –| 0.54| 0.67| 74.9| –| 74.9| 256| 64
Eco| –| 0.80| 0.73| 120| –| 120| 409| 103
Idling| –| 1.0| 0.74| 152| –| 152| 519| 131
Noise CF 12 dB| 8

4

| 8.9

15.9

| 0.97

0.98

| 1775

3275

| 1350

2450

| 425

825

| 1450

2815

| 366

710

Noise CF 9 dB| 8

4

| 16.0

16.1

| 0.99

0.99

| 3250

3250

| 2600

2450

| 650

800

| 2218

2729

| 559

688

Noise CF 6 dB| 8

4

| 15.9

16.1

| 0.99

0.99

| 3250

3300

| 2550

2450

| 700

850

| 2388

2900

| 602

731

Sine wave max. 1 s| 8

4

| 34.3

34.1

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

120 VAC / 60 Hz / 0.2 Ω Source impedance – all channels driven

State| Load [ohms]| Mains current [A RMS]| Power factor| Input power [W]| Output power [W]| Power loss [W]| BTU/hr| kCal/hr
Off| –| 0.09| 0.06| 0.7| –| 0.7| 2| 1
Standby| –| 0.18| 0.69| 15.4| –| 15.4| 53| 13
Standby/Wake on Audio| –| 0.24| 0.78| 22.1| –| 22.1| 75| 19
ReadyStandby| –| 0.76| 0.84| 76.8| –| 76.8| 262| 66
Eco| –| 1.4| 0.77| 128| –| 128| 437| 110
Idling| –| 1.5| 0.85| 156| –| 156| 532| 134
Noise CF 12 dB| 4| 15.7

29.9

| 0.98

0.98

| 1800

3400

| 1350

2550

| 450

850

| 1535

2900

| 387

731

Noise CF 9 dB| 8

4

| 30.0

29.8

| 0.99

0.99

| 3425

3425

| 2650

2500

| 775

925

| 2644

3156

| 667

796

Noise CF 6 dB| 8

4

| 29.8

29.9

| 0.99

0.99

| 3450

3450

| 2650

2500

| 800

950

| 2729

3241

| 688

817

Sine wave max. 1 s| 8

4

| 47.3

53.8

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

100 VAC / 60 Hz / 0.2 Ω Source impedance – all channels driven

State| Load [ohms]| Mains current [A RMS]| Power factor| Input power [W]| Output power [W]| Power loss [W]| BTU/hr| kCal/hr
Off| –| 0.08| 0.06| 0.5| –| 0.5| 2| 1
Standby| –| 0.19| 0.79| 15.1| –| 15.1| 52| 13
Standby/Wake on Audio| –| 0.26| 0.85| 21.8| –| 21.8| 74| 19
ReadyStandby| –| 0.80| 0.87| 69.6| –| 69.6| 237| 60
Eco| –| 1.5| 0.76| 114| –| 114| 389| 98
Idling| –| 1.7| 0.90| 152| –| 152| 519| 131
Noise CF 12 dB| 8

4

| 19.4

29.7

| 0.98

0.98

| 1850

2800

| 1350

2000

| 500

800

| 1706

2729

| 430

688

Noise CF 9 dB| 8

4

| 30.0

29.8

| 0.99

0.99

| 2850

2825

| 2100

2000

| 750

825

| 2559

2815

| 645

710

Noise CF 6 dB| 8

4

| 29.9

30.0

| 0.99

0.99

| 2850

2850

| 2100

2000

| 750

850

| 2559

2900

| 645

731

Sine wave max. 1 s| 8

4

| 61.1

65.7

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

| –

–

Overview

Connections

1. Mains connector socket.
   Refer to Þ Chapter 5.2.1 “Mains connection”.

2. Audio INPUT (analog/digital) and LINK connectors.
   Refer to Þ Chapter 5.2.2 “Audio INPUT and LINK/OUTput connectors”

3. Output connector panel.
   Refer to Þ Chapter 5.2.3 “SPEAKER OUTPUTS”.

4. Network (PRI/SEC).
   Refer to Þ Chapter 5.2.4 “Network connections (PRI/SEC)”.

5. Mains power switch.
   Refer to Þ Chapter 5.3 “Controls and indicators” on page 20, following Chapter 5.3.1 “Mains power switch” on page 20.

6. TFT color touchscreen
   4.3″ / 480 x 272 pixels.

7. Rotary encoder SCROLL/EDIT.
   Refer to Þ Chapter 5.3 “Controls and indicators” on page 20 and .

Startup

Rack mounting and cooling

Rack mounting
The enclosure is designed to fit standard 19″ equipment racks or cabinets.
NOTICE!
When mounting the device into 19″ equipment racks or cabinets, it is strongly recommended that you:

• Always fix the device at its front AND rear rack ears using appropriate rack mounting screws and U-washers, as shown in the graphic opposite.
• Alternatively use shelves fixed to the inner sides of the equipment rack or cabinet.

Cooling
Thermal conditions are a vital factor to ensure operational safety of the power amplifiers. The amplifiers are equipped with two internal fans that draw cool air from the front into the housing and channel the warm air towards the back of the device.

• Please ensure that adequate cool airflow is provided.
• Do not block or cover the front panel air intake or the vents on the rear panel.
• If the amplifiers are installed in sealed cabinets (e.g. in fixed installations), use additional fan modules with filters that can be easily replaced without opening the sealed cabinets.
• Do not combine the amplifiers with D6 or D12 amplifiers in one rack.
• Do not rack up the amplifiers together with other devices producing additional heat with opposing airflow.

Connections

Mains connection
WARNING!
Potential risk of electric shock or fire.
The device is a protective class 1 unit. A missing earth (ground) contact may cause dangerous voltages in the housing and controls and may lead to electric shock.

• Connect the device to mains power supplies with protective earth only.
• If there is any sign of obvious damage to the power cord and/or mains plug, do not use the power cord and replace it before further use.
• Please ensure the mains connector is accessible at any time to disconnect the device in case of malfunction or danger.
• If the mains plug is not readily accessible due to mounting in a 19″ rack or equipment cabinet, then the mains plug for the entire rack or cabinet must be readily accessible.
• Do not connect or disconnect the mains plug under load.

Required mains configuration
NOTICE!

• Due to the high power capability of the device, only operate one device per phase conductor.
• An appropriate circuit breaker from the on-site power distribution system is required:
  • 100 – 127 VAC ~ 50/60 Hz – 30 Amax. B- or C-frame type.
  • 208 – 240 VAC ~ 50/60 Hz – 16 Amax. B- or C-frame type.
• Before connecting the device to mains voltage, check that the mains voltage and frequency correspond to the specifications on the rating label next to the mains connector socket on the rear panel of the unit.
• A powerCON-HC® mains connector socket [1] is fitted on the rear panel and an appropriate power cord [1.1] is supplied.

Audio INPUT and LINK/OUTput connectors
The rear panel features eight audio input connectors with the following assignments:

• four analog inputs (A1 – A4) with corresponding link outputs.
• two digital AES3 inputs (D1/2 and D3/4 – four channels) with corresponding outputs.
  Each input channel can be routed to any of the output channels A to D .

Analog INPUT and LINK (A1 – A4)
A 3-pin female XLR input connector is provided for each channel. Wired in parallel is a 3-pin male XLR input link connector used to feed the input signal onto the next device in the signal chain.

Specifications

• Pin assignment 1 = GND, 2 = pos., 3 = neg.
• Input impedance 32 kOhms, electronically balanced
• CMRR @ 100 Hz/1 kHz / 10 kHz >80 / >80 / >70 dB
• Maximum input level (balanced/unbalanced)
  • +25 / +18 dBu
  • +27.3 dBu @ 0 dBFS
• LINK (A1 – A4) 3 pin XLR male parallel to input

Digital input and output (IN/OUT – D1/2 – D3/4)

• Two 3-pin female XLR digital input (IN) connectors (D1/2 and D3/4) are provided, each accepting a 2-channel AES (AES3) digital audio signal.
• The corresponding 3-pin XLR male digital output (OUT) can be used to feed a refreshed input signal to the next device in the signal chain. The signal shape (the rising and falling edges of the signal) and level are refreshed using a latency free analog buffer amplifier.
• A power fail relay is incorporated to prevent interruption of the signal chain should there be a power failure. In this situation, the digital input signal bypasses the analog buffer amplifier and is routed directly to the output (OUT).

Specifications

• Pin assignment 1 = GND, 2 = AES Signal, 3 = AES Signal
• Input impedance 110 ohms, transformer balanced
• Sampling frequency 44.1 | 48 | 96 | 192 kHz
• Word length 16 – 24 bit
• OUT (D1/2 – D3/4) 3-pin XLR male electronically balanced analog signal buffering (refresh) Power Fail Relay (Bypass)

SPEAKER OUTPUTS
WARNING!
Potential risk of electric shock.

• The amplifier output pins can carry dangerous voltages.
  • Only use isolated loudspeaker cables with correctly fitted connectors.
  • Never connect an amplifier output pin to any other input or output connector pin or protective earth (ground).
• The amplifier is supplied with four NL4 output connectors (A/B – C/D) one for each amplifier output channel Þ Dual Channel configuration.
• In addition, two NL4 connectors are provided, one for each pair of amplifier output channels to allow either Mix TOP/SUB (A/B MIX – C/D MIX) or 2-Way Active (2-WAY – 2-WAY) configurations.
• All NL4 connector pins are hardwired and permanently driven using the following pin assignments:

SPEAKER OUTPUTS pin assignments

2+/2–

| | 1+/1–| | |
B| | 1+/1–

2+/2–

| 2+/2–| | |
C| | | | 1+/1–

2+/2–

| | 1+/1–
D| | | | | 1+/1–

2+/2–

| 2+/2–

Output modes and connector assignments – exemplary

Note: For further information regarding the applicable output modes for each loudspeaker system, please refer to the relevant loudspeaker manual.

4 CHANNEL OUTPUT
NOTICE!

• The 4 CHANNEL OUTPUT connector is only intended as an interface to a rack panel or to loudspeaker multicores and breakout adapters.
• Do not connect any loudspeaker cabinet, neither passive nor active systems, to this connector, otherwise there is a risk of damaging the loudspeaker components or the amplifier.

The centered NL8 connector carries the output signals of all four amplifier channels with the following pin assignment:

Network connections (PRI/SEC)
NOTICE!
Only shielded network cables (STP) must be used!

• The device allows standard remote control via the d&b Remote network using the d&b R1 Remote control software or the integrated Web remote interface.
• For this purpose, use the upper RJ45 (PRI) connector socket (1 Gbit/s/100 Mbit/s – peer-to-peer) requiring star topology network wiring. Daisy-chaining is not supported.
  Note: The bottom RJ45 connector socket (SEC) is not enabled but is reserved for future feature implementations.

LED indicators
The two LED indicators above the respective connector in use indicate the following states:

• Green
  Illuminates permanently when the device is connected to an active network and flashes as long as a data stream is transmitted.
  Yellow

  • Is off when the speed is 100 Mbit/s.
  • Illuminates permanently when the speed is  1 Gbit/s.

Controls and indicators

Mains power switch
The on/off rotary switch [5] is located on the bottom right of the front panel.

• OFF Mains isolation is not provided. The internal power supplies are off but remain connected to the mains.
• ON The unit is switched on and ready for operation.

TFT color touchscreen – User interface
NOTICE!
The touch panel utilizes a thin flexible sheet that may be damaged by sharp objects or heavy treatment.

• The user interface consists of a 4.3″ TFT color touchscreen [6] with a resolution of 480 x 272 pixels and an additional digital rotary encoder [7].
• The resistive touchscreen responds to pressure and therefore can be operated by a fingertip, even when wearing gloves or by an appropriate stylus tip (pen).

Operating concept

Home screen

• From the Home screen, the menu structure of the operating software is divided into two main axes, the «Device» setup and the «Channel» setup.
• The navigation buttons allow for direct vertical access to the specific submenus while the tab structure on the right side of each submenu provides a clear horizontal order.
• In addition, the Home screen gives direct access to the Network subscreen.
• The Home screen can be accessed from any screen or menu at any level using the Home button .

Home screen access chart Hierarchy level
A detailed description of the «Device» and «Channel» setup menu structure and screen contents is given in the D90 Reference manual, which can be downloaded from the related product page at www.dbaudio.com.

Cursor conventions
The graphical user interface features two types of cursors, the «Position» and the «Edit» cursors.

Position cursor
The Position cursor marks the selected menu item by a white frame. Depending on the type of screen item, the Position cursor allows you to either activate a function, navigate through the menu or enter Edit mode Þ Edit cursor.

Edit cursor

• In Edit mode, the Edit cursor is marked by a yellow frame. Turning the encoder to the right (clockwise) increases the current value, turning the encoder to the left (counterclockwise) decreases it.
• To leave Edit mode press the encoder or simply select the respective menu item again. The color of the frame will change from yellow back to white again Þ Position cursor.

Interaction
The operating concept allows different methods of interaction and configuration.

• Touchscreen in combination with the rotary encoder
  This method may preferably be used to set values of input fields such as Gain settings, CPL, Delay or EQ settings.

  • Select menus, menu items and/or function elements by selecting the relevant item.
  • Enter/edit values by turning the encoder.
  • Confirm entered/changed values by selecting the respective item again or the confirmation button («OK») or pushing the encoder.

• Rotary encoder only
  This method is mainly intended for users who are familiar with the user interfaces of other d&b amplifiers.

  • Select menus, menu items and/or function elements by turning the encoder to move the Position cursor to the relevant item.
  • Access the selected item or function element by pushing the encoder.
  • Enter/edit values by turning the encoder.
  • Confirm entered/changed values or leave Edit mode by pushing the encoder.

Standby mode
To switch the device to Standby mode, proceed as follows:

1. Select the «Power» button on the top right of the home screen. ↳A dialog appears allowing you to either select the Back button , «Mute all» or «Standby».

2. Select «Standby».

   • When the device is in Standby mode, both the «Power» button on the right and the green Power on indicator on the left are switched off. In addition, on the «Device view» button, Standby flashes alternating with the Device name. In Standby mode, the user interface of the device is still operable.
   • The operating state (Standby mode) is stored when the «Power» button is set to ‘Off’ and is restored when the «Power» button is set back to ‘On’ again.
   • In Standby mode, the main power supply and the power amplifiers are switched off to save energy. The display and controls remain active to allow repowering of the device by remote control or by selecting the «Power» button on the Home screen.

3. To repower the device, select the «Power» button again.
   Notes on Standby

   • When the device is set to Standby (or the mains power is switched off), the movement of the loudspeaker cones in the connected cabinets is no longer damped by the power amplifier output. This removal of the damping makes them susceptible to excitation by other loudspeakers in the surroundings. Audible resonances may occur, and even absorption of low frequency sound energy as the undamped loudspeakers act like a “bass trap”.
   • To permanently mute single subwoofer cabinets while others are operated at the same time it is therefore preferable to use the Mute function instead of Standby. However, the Standby mode can be useful with mid/high systems as it removes any residual noise from the system.

Mute functions
The device provides two mute functions:

• Individual mute buttons for each channel or pair of channels, depending on the output mode configuration:
  Channel mute,

• Master mute function:
  «Mute all».
  Note: The device stores the setting of the mute buttons when the mains power is switched off or disconnected. When the unit is switched on or reconnected, the mute status will be recalled.

Channel mute
To mute or unmute a channel or a pair of channels, simply select the respective Channel mute button.

• The Channel mute button displays the mute status of the relevant channel or pair of channels and the loudspeaker setup loaded.

Master mute («Mute all»)

1. To mute all channels simultaneously, select the «Power» button on the top right of the Home screen.
   A dialog appears allowing you to either select the Back button , «Mute all» or «Standby».

2. Select «Mute all».

3. To unmute the channels, use the individual Channel mute buttons.

Basic settings – Quick reference

Due to the vast functional range and possible settings of the device, this section is intended as a quick reference to provide you with a systematic procedure for defining the basic settings of the device.
It is advisable to start with the device settings followed by the individual channel settings.

System reset
Before starting to define the basic settings, perform a system reset.
For this purpose, proceed as follows:

1. Switch off the device.

2. Press and hold the encoder and repower the device.
   Long confirmation beep.

3. Release the encoder and briefly press the encoder again within 2 sec.
   Short confirmation beep.
   The device will boot up and will switch to the Home screen.
   A corresponding message will be issued:

Device setup

• On the Home screen, select the Device view button.
• This will enter the Device setup subscreen with the «Input» tab being active.

Input

• Define your desired input settings for all channels correspondingly.
• Here you can also set the input gain of the individual channel, ranging from –57.5 to +6 dB.

Output (Output mode)
Select the «Output» tab and define your desired output mode settings for each pair of amplifier channels correspondingly.

Speaker

1. On the bottom left of the «Output» tab, select the «Speaker» navigation button to enter the Speaker setup subscreen.
2. Choose the desired speaker setups for all channels and confirm each selected setup by selecting the «OK» button right next to the «Speaker» selection field.
3. Define the «LoadMatch» settings, if applicable and desired, correspondingly.
4. After defining all settings, exit the subscreen by selecting the Home button .

Network

1. On the Home screen, select the «ID» button to enter the Network setup menu.

2. Define your desired Network settings correspondingly.
   Note: As all the configurations and settings mentioned above can also be defined remotely, it depends on how you wish to proceed whether defining the Network settings is the last or the first step when configuring your basic settings.

3. After defining all settings, exit the subscreen by selecting the Home button and carry on with the individual channel settings.

Channel setup

1. On the Home screen, select the Channel view button of the first channel (A) or pair of channels (A/B) to enter the Channel setup.
2. Define your individual channel settings such as CUT, HFA, CPL, Level, DLY or EQ as well as the input routing for all channels correspondingly.
3. After defining all settings, exit the subscreen by selecting the Home button .

Service/Maintenance and care

Service
CAUTION!
Potential risk of explosion.

• The device incorporates a lithium battery which may cause danger of explosion if not replaced correctly.
• Refer replacement only to qualified service personnel authorized by d&b audiotechnik.
• Do not open the device. No user serviceable parts inside. In case of any damage do not operate the device under any circumstances.
• Refer servicing only to qualified service personnel authorized by d&b audiotechnik. In particular if:
  • objects or liquids have entered the device.
  • the device does not operate normally.
  • the device was dropped or the housing is damaged.

Maintenance and care

• During normal operation, the amplifier provides maintenance-free service.
• Due to the cooling concept, no dust filters are required. As a result, filter exchange or cleaning the filters is not necessary.

Touchscreen cleaning

• After a certain period of time, the touchscreen may require cleaning.

• For this purpose, proceed as follows:

  • Use a soft cloth only.
  • Do not use any solvent cleaners.

• To remove very heavy dirt from the panel, it may be helpful to use a special cleaning spray for TFT screens. In this case, proceed as follows:

  1. Spray on the soft cloth before wiping the screen.
     Never apply/spray directly on the screen as the liquid could penetrate the device.

  2. Wipe the screen with moderate pressure.

Touchscreen calibration

Indication

• Due to mechanical impact or the aging process of the touchscreen, its calibration references may change.
• An indication is that when you tap a specific button and the adjacent button is activated instead or when a specific button does no longer work.
• In such cases, the touchscreen should be recalibrated.

Calibration
To calibrate the touchscreen proceed as follows:

1. From the «Home» screen go to «Device» Þ «More»
   «Preferences» Þ «Display».

2. On the bottom left, select «Touchscreen calibration».
   The calibration menu will be issued, guiding you through the calibration procedure.

3. Follow the on screen instructions respectively.

Manufacturer’s declarations

Declaration of Conformity
This declaration applies to:

• d&b Z2860 D90 Amplifier by d&b audiotechnik GmbH & Co. KG.
• All product variants are included, provided they correspond to the original technical version and have not been subject to any later design or electromechanical modifications.
• We herewith declare that said products are in conformity with the provisions of the respective directives including all applicable amendments.
• Detailed and applicable declarations are available on request and can be ordered from d&b or downloaded from the d&b website at www.dbaudio.com.

WEEE Declaration (Disposal)

• Electrical and electronic equipment must be disposed of separately from normal waste at the end of its operational lifetime.
• Please dispose of this product according to the respective national regulations or contractual agreements. If there are any further questions concerning the disposal of this product, please contact d&b audiotechnik.
  WEEE-Reg.-Nr. DE: 13421928

Licenses and Copyright

• A list of the components and a full-text version of all licenses and copyrights can be accessed using the amplifier’s Web Remote interface.
• Selecting the d&b logo at the top left of the «Web Remote» interface page allows access to the «Licenses and Copyright» information page.
• This page provides an overview of the open source software used in this product. As required by the GPL and LGPL licenses, we will send you a copy of the used source code on request. If you would like to obtain a copy, please contact us by mail to: software.support@dbaudio.com

References

• Professional audio solutions from Germany | d&b audiotechnik

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