auro
X12D • X15D 1,000 WATT ACTIVE LOUDSPEAKER
OWNER'S MANUAL
Important Safety Information
This lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of non-
insulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric
shock.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended
to alert the user to the presence of important operating and
maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying the
appliance.
AVIS
RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRONIQUE -
NE PAS OUVRIR
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) AS THERE ARE NO
USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
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 dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance 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 or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wid-
er than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong
are provided for your safety. If the provided 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 the plugs, convenience receptacles, and at the
point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug the apparatus during lightening, sort or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Service 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 has been
exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. This appliance shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing water and that no object filled with liquid such as vases
shall be placed on the apparatus.
16. Caution-to prevent electrical shock, match wide blade plug wide slot fully insert.
17. Please keep a good ventilation environment around the entire unit.
Auro X12D/X15D
3
Important Safety Information
FCC Notice
1. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference.
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
2. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a
separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that
requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private household in the 28 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their
used electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you
purchase a similar new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of
disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery
and recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Rear Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Making Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Cables and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Auro X12D/X15D
5
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Samson Auro professional, powered loudspeaker. The Auro X12D and
X15D are compact and powerful speaker cabinets featuring 1,000 watts of bi-amped onboard power.
The Auro X12D and X15D, respectively, feature 12” and 15” heavy-duty, long-excursion woofers, as
well as 1.34” titanium compression drivers with a 1” exit. The back panels offer two XLR & ¼” input
channels, each with independent volume controls. They also feature a Master Volume control, as well
as a 3-position EQ and HPF presets to suit any application. The XLR Line Output allows you to “daisy-
chain” multiple Auro cabinets together to create larger sound reinforcement systems.
The Auro X12D and X15D feature a 1,000 watt lightweight, efficient class-d amplifier as well as
Samson’s R.A.M.P. Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology. The R.A.M.P. DSP ensures for
maximum output with a linear response while providing protection to the speaker and components.
Each cabinet’s trapezoidal shape allows it to be configured for either front-of-house use, or for
operation as a wedge-style monitor. In addition, the compact cabinets can easily be stacked, using the
built-in bumpers or can be stand-mounted using the integral 1 3/8” pole-mount receptacles.
Each Auro PA system’s durable enclosure is made of high-impact polypropylene with a scuff-resistant
textured finish, and include a heavy-grade steel grill, offering excellent protection against wear and
tear for truly portable audio. The Auro active monitors are ideal for live music, DJ, lecture, and
installed sound applications, or anywhere serious power and superior sound quality are desired.
In these pages, you’ll find a detailed itemization of the features of the Auro PA system, as well as
a description of its front and rear panels, step-by-step instructions for its setup and use, and full
specifications. You’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—please don’t forget to fill it out and mail it
in so that you can receive online technical support, and so that we can send you updated information
about this and other Samson products in the future. Also, be sure to check out our website (www.
samsontech.com) for complete information about our full product line.
With proper care and adequate air circulation, your Auro cabinet will operate trouble free for many
years. We recommend you record your serial number in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial number: _______________________________
Date of purchase: ____________________________
Should your unit ever require servicing, a Return Authorization (RA) number must be obtained before
shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, the unit will not be accepted. Please call Samson
at 1-800-3SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) for an RA number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain
the original packing materials and, if possible, return the unit in the original carton and packing
materials. If you purchased your Samson product outside the United States, please contact your local
distributor for warranty and service information.
6
Features
• 1,000 watt, two-way active loudspeakers for live sound applications
• Lightweight, ultra-efficient Class-D amplifier
• 800W LF + 200W HF power amplifiers (peak)
• Ultra-wide, flat frequency response
• Custom-designed, heavy-duty, 12”/15” long throw low frequency drivers provide enhanced bass
response
• 1.34” titanium diaphragm compression driver with 1” throat for smooth high-end reproduction
• Samson’s R.A.M.P. DSP technology
• Master Volume control with peak indicator
• Two XLR-1/4” combo input channels with independent
• 3-position EQ and HPF presets
• XLR Line Output connectors to “daisy-chain” multiple Auro cabinets
• Internal 24 dB/octave time aligned electronic crossover
• 30- and 45- degree monitor angles for near and far field coverage
• Standard 1 3/8-inch (35mm) speaker stand receptacle
• Versatile, portable design with integrated side handles
• Tuned, ported bass reflex design for extended low end
• Solid polypropylene enclosure with impact resistant design
Auro X12D/X15D
7
Quick Start
1. Turn the Level control on the rear panel fully
counterclockwise.
2. Set the HPF and EQ switches to the Flat
positions (figure 1).
3. Turn the Power switch OFF.
figure 1
4. Connect either a line level signal from your
mixer (or other audio source) or a microphone
to the Input 1 jack or a line level signal to
the Input 2 jack on the Auro X12D/X15D
rear panel (figure 2). If using a microphone,
set the Mic/Line Switch to the microphone
position.
5. Connect the supplied power cable to the AC
Power Inlet on the back of the loudspeaker.
Plug the power cable into an AC outlet (figure
4).
Note: Always make sure that the AC outlet
is configured with the correct voltage as
indicated on the rear panel of the Auro
loudspeaker.
figure 2
6. Switch the Auro’s Power switch to the ON
position.
7. Run an audio signal from your mixer, or talk
into the microphone (figure 4).
8. Slowly raise the Auro’s Level control until you
have reached the desired level.
9. If the volume from the speakers gets really
loud, or you see the Peak indicator blinking
frequently, turn down the Level control
on the Auro X12D/X15D a little until the
Peak indicator does not light, or only lights
occasionally with signal peaks.
figure 3
figure 4
8
Rear Panel Layout
1. XLR and ¼” Input Connector (Input 1) - This
combo XLR and ¼” connector accepts either
a balanced or unbalanced microphone or line
level signal. The ¼” phone input accepts TS
or TRS type connectors.
2. VOL Control (Input 1) - This Volume knobs
adjusts the level of the Input 1 channel.
3. SIGNAL Indicator (Input 1) - This GREEN LED
indicator, when illuminated, indicates that the
signal is present at the Input 1, regardless of
the Input 1 VOL Control setting.
4. Mic/Line Switch (Input 1) - The MIC position
changes the gain of Input 1 jacks to MIC
level. The LINE position reduces the gain of
both jacks by 30dB to line level.
5. XLR and ¼” Input Connector (Input 2) - This
combo XLR and ¼” connector accepts either
a balanced or unbalanced line level signal.
The ¼” phone input accepts TS or TRS type
connectors.
6. VOL Control (Input 2) - This control adjusts the
level of the Input 2 channel.
7. SIGNAL Indicator (Input 2) - This GREEN LED
indicator, when illuminated, indicates that the
signal is present at the Input 2, regardless of
the Input 2 VOL Control setting.
8. Master VOL Control - This control adjusts the
overall signal level at the input of the power
amplifiers.
9. EQ Switch - The Auro DSP has three EQ
contour curves: NORMAL, DEEP, and BOOST.
The NORMAL setting produces the standard
frequency response and works best for most
applications. The BOOST setting provides a
high frequency lift for vocal clarity. This is
useful when plugging a microphone directly
into the speaker. The DEEP setting enhances
low frequencies to add punch and high
frequencies to add vocal clarity.
Auro X12D/X15D
9
Rear Panel Layout
10. HPF Switch - This switch adjust the High Pass Filter frequency of the cabinet. When using the
Auro speaker with a subwoofer, set the switch to 80Hz or 120Hz depending on the specification
of the subwoofer. It is also recommended to set the HPF to 120Hz when using the Auro speaker
as a floor monitor to limit the low frequency build up on the stage.
11. LIMITER Indicator - This YELLOW LED lights when the amp is near the clipping point and the
limiter is engaged. If the LIMITER indicator lights frequently, turn down the Master VOL control
or INPUT VOL controls on the Auro speaker or turn down the signal at the source, until the
indicator does not light anymore, or lights only occasionally with high signal peaks.
12. Line Output - Male XLR connector used to link multiple Auro cabinets.
13. MIX 1/2 & THRU Switch - This switch is used to select the signal that is sent to the Line Output.
When the switch is in the up (MIX 1/2) position, the signal on the Line Output is a mix of both
the Input 1 and Input 2 signals. When the switch is in the down (THRU) position the Line Output
carries only the Input 2 signal.
14. FAULT Indicator - This LED lights RED when the input is overloaded, amp overheats or other
problems have been detected. If the FAULT indicator lights due to the the amp overheating, the
amplifier will limit the audio and lower the output level. Turn the volume controls down until the
FAULT indicator is no longer lit. When the unit cools, the amplifier will raise the level back up.
15. Power Switch - This rocker switch turns on and off the Auro’s main power. The switch lights RED
when the amp is active.
NOTE: It is important to remember the Golden Rule of audio… “LAST ON, FIRST OFF.”
Translated, this means that when turning on your system, you should always turn your powered
speakers on LAST, and when turning your system off, turn your powered speakers off FIRST. This
helps avoid any loud pops caused by rush current at power up, or down, which can sometimes
damage loudspeakers.
16. Fuse Cover - The fuse is located behind the fuse cover. Always replace fuses with the same type of
fuse.
17. AC Power Inlet - Connect the supplied standard 3-prong IEC power cable here.
Note: Never disconnect the plug’s ground pin. It is dangerous and can result in electric shock!
10
Making Connections
Using a Microphone
• Be sure that the Auro X12D/X15D Power switch
is set to the off position.
• Turn the LEVEL control fully counterclockwise to
the off position.
• Connect the power cable to an AC socket.
• Using a standard XLR cable, plug a microphone
into the Auro’s XLR INPUT 1.
• Set the MIC/LINE switch to the MIC (down)
position.
• Set the MIX 1/2 & THRU switch to the MIX 1/2
position.
• Switch the Power switch to the ON position.
• While speaking or singing into the microphone,
slowly raise the LEVEL control until you have
reached the desired level.
• For larger sound reinforcement you can run
several monitors using the Line Output to daisy-
chain one Auro to another.
Using a Stereo Line Level Signal
• Be sure that the Auro X12D/X15D Power
switch is set to the off position.
• Turn the LEVEL control fully counterclockwise
to the off position.
• Connect the power cable to an AC socket.
• Using standard XLR or ¼” cables, connect the
line level signals from a mixer or keyboard into
the Auro Inputs.
• Switch the Power switch to the ON position.
• Now, run an audio signal from your mixer (like
music from an MP3 player) while slowly raising
the Auro’s Level control until you have reached
the desired level.
Auro X12D/X15D
11
Positioning the Auro X12D/X15D
Speaker Placement
Whenever possible, it is a good idea to raise the speakers
above the heads of the listening audience. The Auro
enclosures feature standard 1 3/8” pole mount receptacles
with locking bolts, which are compatible with speaker stands
from a variety of manufacturers. In a smaller setting like a
school cafeteria, library, or a mall kiosk, you can also use the
Auro loudspeaker in one of the tilt back monitor positions,
which will improve the projection of the speakers and may
eliminate the need for speaker stands.
Note: When using a speaker pole mount, be sure the pole is
capable of supporting the weight of the Auro loudspeaker.
Note: Always have another person to assist when mounting
the Auro speaker onto a speaker stand, or when adjusting the
stand while the speaker is mounted on the stand.
Using the Auro X12D/X15D as a Floor Monitor
The Auro X12D/X15D is an ideal solution for stage monitoring
and thanks to its unique design, two wedge monitor positions
are possible. When placed on its side, with the high frequency
horn facing to the left of the enclosure, the Auro is tilted at
a 30 degree angle, optimizing performance when used on a
large stage. When placed on its side with the high frequency
horn facing to the right of the enclosure, the Auro is tilted
at a 45 degree angle optimizing performance when used on
smaller stages.
12
Cables and Connectors
The Auro X12D/X15D features balanced inputs and outputs, so connecting balanced and unbalanced
signals is acceptable. Whenever possible, use balanced connections to other equipment to suppress
interference.
Unbalanced 1/4” Connector
Balanced TRS 1/4” Connector
XLR to XLR Balanced
Unbalanced 1/4” Connector to RCA
XLR to Balanced 1/4-Inch
Auro X12D/X15D
13
Specifications
X12D
X15D
Output Power
RMS Power
400 W @ 8 ohms
Low Frequency
High Frequency
Peak Power
THD
800 W @ 8 ohms
< 1 %
RMS Power
Peak Power
THD
100 W @ 8 ohms
200 W @ 8 ohms
< 1 %
Transducers
Low Frequency
High Frequency
12” bass transducer, 2.5” voice coil
15” bass transducer, 3” voice coil
1.34” (34 mm) titanium compression driver, edge-wound copper voice coil
Acoustic Performance
Frequency Response (-3 dB)
Maximum SPL (Peak Power)
Horizontal Coverage Angle
Vertical Coverage Angle
58 Hz to 20 kHz
55 Hz to 20 kHz
125 dB SPL @ 1 m
125 dB SPL @ 1 m
90°
60°
Electronic Crossover
Crossover Type
24 dB/oct Linkwitz-Riley
Crossover Frequency
2.3 kHz
Input/Output
2.1 kHz
Inputs
Output
Balanced XLR & ¼” Connectors (Input 1 Mic/Line Level; Input 2 Line Level)
Balanced XLR Line Output
Equalization Switches
HPF
EQ
Flat, 80Hz, 120Hz
Flat, Deep, Boost
Power Supply
Power Consumption
AC Connector
Fuse
456 W max.
3-pin IEC 250 VAC, 20 A male
100 - 127 VAC T6.3AH / 250 V
220 - 240 VAC T3.15AH / 250 V
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions
Weight
in
14” L x 10.8” W x 21.5” H
17.75” L x 13.5” W x 27.5” H
mm
lbs
kg
356 mm L x 275 mm W x 546 mm H
450 mm L x 342 mm W x 698 mm H
28.5
41.5
19
12.8
Mounting
Mounting Method
Fly Point
Integral 1 3/8” Pole Mount Receptacle
1 x M10
At Samson, we are continually improving our products, therefore specifications and
images are subject to change without notice.
14
Dimensions
13.5 in/
342 mm
10.8 in/
275 mm
17.75 in/
450 mm
14 in/
356 mm
27.5 in/
698 mm
21.5 in/
546 mm
Auro X12D/X15D
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Samson Technologies Corp.
45 Gilpin Avenue
Hauppauge, New York 11788-8816
Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON (1-800-372-6766)
Fax: 631-784-2201
samsontech.com
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