DAS Vantec Series, VANTEC-12A, VANTEC-15A, VANTEC-215A Manual

Introduction

The Vantec Series inherits the exceptional sound quality and rugged build that have made DAS professional systems an international sound reinforcement standard. Designed from "real-world" experience, they offer users outstanding performance, absolute reliability, and unparalleled convenience. Whether it is in a high-profile venue or on the stage of a major event, the vantec series will provide the power and definition needed to make your performance a success.

VANTEC-12A

The VANTEC-12A is a powered loudspeaker (2 channel Class D amplifier), that utilizes a 12" low frequency transducer and a 1" exit compression driver. The multi-angle cabinet is constructed of Birch plywood protected by an environmentally friendly black paint finish. Two bar handles and a steel grille are provided. A 35mm tripod socket allows for stand mounting with two possible angles 0º or -10º.

• Two-way powered system.
• 12" bass loudspeaker.
• Compression driver with titanium diaphragm.
• Symmetric enclosure design for stage monitor use.
• Built-in rigging points (eye bolt based).
• Stand mountable/Dual angle.

VANTEC-15A

The VANTEC-15A is a powered loudspeaker (2 channel Class D amplifier), that utilizes a 15" low frequency transducer and a 1" exit compression driver. The multi-angle cabinet is constructed of Birch plywood protected by an environmentally friendly black paint finish. Two bar handles and a steel grille are provided. A 35mm tripod socket allows for stand mounting with two possible angles 0º or -10º.

• Two-way powered system.
• 15" bass loudspeaker.
• Compression driver with titanium diaphragm.
• Symmetric enclosure design for stage monitor use.
• Built-in rigging points (eye bolt based).
• Stand mountable.

VANTEC-215A

The VANTEC-215A is a powered loudspeaker (3 channel Class D amplifier), that utilizes two 15" bass loudspeakers for extra low frequency punch and higher SPL in a "dual band" configuration where each speaker works in a specific frequency range. High frequencies are handled by a 1"exit compression driver with titanium diaphragm. The trapezoidal cabinet is constructed using Birch plywood and protected with a hard-wearing black paint finish. Two bar handles and a steel grille sealed against corrosion using a polyamide powder coat finish are provided. Rigging points provide a safe and simple way to fly the VANTEC-215A cabinets.

• 3-way powered system
• 2 x 15" bass loudspeaker working in a "dual band" configuration (2.5 ways)
• Compression driver with titanium diaphragm
• Two steel-reinforced handles

VANTEC-18A

The VANTEC-18A bass powered system (Class D amplifier) incorporates a 18" low frequency transducer with a 4" voice coil mounted as a direct radiator into a bass-reflex cabinet. The loudspeaker is protected by a perforated steel grille, sealed against corrosion using a powder coat finish. The VANTEC-18A is designed for use in biamped systems. A top located pole mount socket permits mounting full-range systems above the VANTEC-18A and two bar handles makes moving easy.

• Bass-reflex powered subwoofer system
• 18" low frequency transducer
• Precise and powerful bass reproduction
• Top located pole mount socket

VANTEC-218A

The VANTEC-218A is a powered bass subwoofer system designed to provide extended bass response for the Vantec full range cabinets. A powerful amplifier drives dual DAS 18LX long excursion bass loudspeakers incorporating 4" voice coils and massive magnet structures provide high power handling and impressive output.
The VANTEC-218A is powered by a Class D amplifier with switch mode power supply and a 4000 W peak power rating. The system includes two balanced inputs (A-B) with stereo HPF filtered output connections for satellite systems. Defeating the HPF filter offers stereo "loop thru" connections. The variable LPF crossover ranges from 80 Hz-125 Hz. A gain control and polarity reverse feature increase user control over the system.
The compact VANTEC-218A cabinet is manufactured using birch plywood and is finished with a coating of the highly resistant ISO-flex black paint for durability. The powder-coated steel front grille protects the DAS components. Handles on the sides and the rear of the cabinet along with two rear located wheels make moving the box easier.

• Powered subwoofer system
• 4000 W peak Class "D" amplifier
• EQ Presets: Deep, Loud
• Variable Low Pass Filter
• Sub level gain control, polarity reverse
• Front logo on/off switch
• Rigging points
• Rear located wheels for easy movement

Configuration

When using a external DSP the High Pass filter for the top cabinets and the Low pass filter in the subwoofer have to be set up in the processor.
This means that HPF needs to be off in VANTEC- 12A (VANTEC-15A) and Low Pass filter in the sub at the maximum position. It would be extremely important to time align the system.

Line Drawings

VANTEC-12A

VANTEC-15A

VANTEC-215A

VANTEC-18A

VANTEC-218A

Specifications

DAS Audio Group, S.L. continuously strives to enhance its products through investigation and development. All specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

Amplifier

Description: VANTEC-12A/15A/215A

1. MASTER VOLUME AND DSP CONTROL:
   Use the encoder to select the desired output volume and push/hold it to access to the different DSP and cabinet settings.
2. MAIN SCREEN:
   In the main screen all selected parameters and settings are shown. Besides this, there are two input level indicators on the left, one output level indicator on the right and the center area is reserved to display messages as Input Clip or Limit.
3. INPUT CONNECTORS:
   1/4" Jack+XLR combined socket-type input signal connectors. This is a balanced connector just like the LOOP THRU connector with the following pin assignments:
   • or S =GND (ground).
   • or T =(+) Non inverted input.
   • or R =(-) Inverted input.
4. OUTPUT:
   XLR-type output signal connector for connecting several units together and sending them all the same signal. The user can select the signal going out; can be Ch1, Ch2 or MIX (see 6).
5. INPUT GAIN CONTROL:
   For channels 1, 2 and AUX IN, gain control, line and microphone.
   Note: Wireless Audio Signal is controlled with gain knob 1.
6. OUTPUT MIX-SELECTOR:
   It allows the user to select which input channel signal to be sent to other cabinets. User can select Ch1, Ch2 or both (Mix).
7. AUX IN:
   3.5 mm audio jack input for connecting external audio media devices, such as MP3 players. The input source is controlled with Gain control 1.

ADJUSTING THE LEVELS:
By default the state of the screen is the following:

Once the input source (s) have been connected to the amplifier´s cabinet, the user has to adjust the levels.
For the two input channels (1 and 2), two independent gain controls are available. Be careful when setting the input volume and do not exceed the maximum level shown on the meters: (input clip shown on channel one)

After having set the input volume values under the maximum level, user has to adjust output volume with the master control. The level is shown in the right meter of the screen. As with the inputs be careful not exceeding the limit: (LIMIT shown)

After these two volume adjustments the screen will show something like this (when having the input sources ON):

MAIN MENU:
As stated previously by pushing the encoder the user can access to the following options in the MENU:

Note: to enter and select and option always push the encoder. For going back in the menu, the user has to select Back on the screen and press the encoder or just pushing the encoder. After 30 seconds without using the unit it will go back to the main screen automatically.

By scrolling down the encoder more options appear:

PRESETS:
Five factory settings (live, dance, vocals, boost, monitor) depending on the type of music/use that has been configured inside the unit:

With the encoder go to Preset Sub-menu and press the knob to access to the different options:

HPF (High Pass Filter):
Four options are available for the cabinets. Go to the HPF Sub-menu and press the encoder. Options appear:

LOW:
Boosting the energy in the low end is possible by the use of this parameter, Besides the user can remove energy. The scale goes from -10dB to +6dB. As with the previous options use the encoder to move in the main menu till the LOW sub menu. Then press again and you will enter the dB selector:

MID:
Boosting the energy in the mid range end is possible by the use of this parameter. Besides the user can remove energy. The scale goes from -10dB to +6dB. As with the previous options use the encoder to move in the main menu till the MID sub menu. Then press again and you will enter the dB selector. The EQ is a parametric Bell at 630Hz with a Q of 0.75

HIGH:
Boosting the energy in the high end is possible by the use of this parameter, Besides the user can remove energy. The scale goes from -10dB to +6dB. As with the previous options use the encoder to move in the main menu till the HIGH sub menu. Then press again and you will enter the dB selector:

DELAY:
The user can set up a delay in the cabinets by using the delay Sub-menu; from 0 to 9.9m in 0.1m steps. Delay units can be selected between meters or feet:

EXPANDER:
When the cabinet has to be used in very silent environments the expander acts as a noise gate but with a more progressive behavior. By default this option is not engaged.

WIRELESS AUDIO:
This functionality allows the user to connect a device such as a tablet or smart phone to send audio to the speakers (up to 2) without using cables. Go to the Wireless Audio Menu and push the encoder to enter.

When creating a new link, the user has to select if just one cabinet is going to be connected to the audio source (select SINGLE L+R), or a pair of cabinets are going to be linked (stereo).

If a pair of cabinets is going to be used, one will be the Master unit connected to your tablet and other the Slave will receive audio from the Master. Master will reproduce Left audio channel and Slave Right channel.

Note:
When doing a master-slave connection ONLY one possible slave cabinet should be connected (power). Switch off all 2 the rest of the units.
Note:
Always be sure that the distance between devices does not exceed 20 meters.
Check as well that there is direct visual contact between the units. This means that objects, as walls may cause interruption in the transmission.
When establishing the link between Master & Slave cabinets, switch off all the other devices. It can take up to 1 minute to create the link.

OPTIONS:
In this sub-menu the user can configure all the non-audio related options. Remember that in order to access each parameter it is necessary to push the encoder:

Description of VANTEC-18A

1. INPUT:
   1/4" Jack+XLR combined socket-type input signal connectors. This is a balanced connector just like the LOOP THRU connector with the following pin assignments:
   • or S =GND (ground).
   • or T =(+) Non inverted input.
   • or R =(-) Inverted input.
2. SATELLITE OUTPUT:
   A and B, XLR-type output signal connectors for connecting several units together and sending them all the same input signal or filtered signal (by using THRU/HPF).
3. LIMIT:
   Red LED indicates amplifier saturation. Amplifier limiter indicator lights.
4. SIGNAL:
   Green LED indicates signal presence.
5. ON:
   Green LED indicates that the unit is ON.
6. SUB LEVEL:
   Potentiometer for adjusting the unit level.
7. AC INPUT:
   Standard PowerCon NAC3FCA mains connector (inserted, rotated and locked for ON). Only use this equipment with an appropriate mains cord.
8. THRU/HPF:
   'SATELLITE OUTPUT' selector to switch between full range signal or pass filter with cut-off frequency of 100 Hz.
9. LOW-PASS CROSSOVER:
   Button for adjusting the upper cut-off frequency for the subwoofer unit. We recommend a cutoff frequency of 100 Hz for vantec series use.
10. PHASE:
    Switch for inverting the phase of the unit.
11. PRESET DEEP/LOUD:
    Button for switching between two types of frequency response, DEEP or LOUD.
12. AC OUTPUT:
    PowerCon NAC3FCB connector for AC loop thru allows up to 8 units when using a 230V version (see unit's label)). Only use this equipment with an appropriate mains cord.

ON/OFF
A sound system should be switched on sequentially. Switch on the self-powered units last in your sound system (switch on the subwoofer before the mid-high system). Switch on the sound sources such as CD players or turntables, then the mixer, then the processors, and finally the self-powered unit. If you have several units, it is recommended that you switch them on sequentially one at a time.
Follow the inverse order when switching off, turning self-powered units off before any other element in the sound system.
Disconnect the device by removing the mains connector from the mains socket. The mains connector and mains socket must always be freely accessible and never covered or blocked in any way. The mains cable can be detached from the device by disconnecting the standard PowerCon NC3FCA connector. Always disconnect the device by removing the mains connector from the mains socket before detaching the mains cable at the PowerCon NC3FCA connector.
Power can be daisy chained via the NC3FCB output connector (see details on product label).

Do not disconnect the unit while in use.
Ensure that the device is disconnected from the mains by observing that the ON LED is turned off. Please note that the ON LED can stay on for several seconds after the mains power has been disconnected.

Overload LED indicator (VANTEC-18A)
This device has an indicator (LIMIT LED) that lights when the signal is excessive.
The indicator should not be lit continuously. This distorts the signal (quickly fatiguing your ears) and may damage the speakers. Therefore, it is recommended that you never work with this LED on; at most it should blink only occasionally.

Overload Screen indicators (VANTEC-12A/15A/215A)
In the main screen when input signal levels are too high on the left side the meters will display "input clip".
If the input levels are in between the limits but the output level gain is too much the right meter will display "limit".

Equalisation
The unit does not need extreme settings of equalisation to produce quality sound. Avoid high levels of gain on the equalisers. Gain values above +3 dB on a console's EQ are not recommended.

Overheating
This equipment does not normally overheat during normal conditions of use. When overheating occurs, the unit protects itself. You should then find out why and if necessary contact an authorised dealer for technical assistance.
Normally it is enough just to let the unit cool down after you have corrected the problem so that the system functions properly again.

Low mains voltage
If mains voltage falls below the shutdown voltage for the unit, it will stop playing. When acceptable levels are regained, the unit will switch back on automatically.
Therefore the current consumed by a 115V version is double the 230V version to achieve the same acoustic power level.

Troubleshooting

Rigging system

This manual contains needed information for flying DAS Audio cabinets, description of the elements and safety precautions. To perform any operations related to flying the system, read the present document first, and act on the warnings and advice given. The goal is to allow the user to become familiar with the mechanical elements required to fly the acoustic system, as well as the safety measures to be taken during set-up and teardown.
Only experienced installers with adequate knowledge of the equipment and local safety regulations should fly speaker boxes. It is the user's responsibility to ensure that the systems to be flown (including flying accessories) comply with state and local regulations.
The working load limits in this manual are the results of tests by independent laboratories. It is the user's responsibility to stay within safe limits. It is the user's responsibility to follow and comply with safety factors, resistance values, periodical supervisions and warnings given in this manual. Product improvement by means of research and development is on going at DAS. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
It is common practice to apply 5:1 safety factors for enclosures and static elements. For slings and elements exposed to material fatigue due to friction and load variation the following ratios must be met; 5:1 for steel cable slings, 4:1 for steel chain slings and 7:1 polyester slings. Thus, an element with a breaking load limit of 1000 kg may be statically loaded with 200 kg (5:1 safety factor) and dynamically loaded with 142 kg (7:1 safety factor).
When flying a system, the working load must be lower than the resistance of each individual flying point in the enclosure, as well as each box. Hanging hardware should be regularly inspected and suspect units replaced if in doubt. This is important to avoid injury and absolutely no risks should be taken in this respect. It is highly recommended that you implement an inspection and maintenance program on flying elements, including reports to be filled out by the personnel that will carry out the inspections. Local regulations may exist that, in case of accident, may require you to present evidence of inspection reports and corrective actions after defects were found.
Absolutely no risks should be taken with regards to public safety. When flying enclosures from ceiling support structures, extreme care should be taken to assure the load bearing capabilities of the structures so that the installation is absolutely safe. Do not fly enclosures from unsafe structures. Consult a certified professional if needed. All flying accessories that are not supplied by DAS Audio are the user's responsibility. Use at your own risk.

Introduction

Flyable Vantec Series models feature 6 internal steel angles, with 2 mounting threads each, so that 12 flying points are available (2 on each side, 3 on the top panel and 3 on the bottom panel and 2 on the rear panel). Eyebolt flying points are factory sealed with M10 screws, which are replaced with eyebolts on the flying points as required. Flying with eyebolts is very economical and safe, and is specially recommended for fixed installations where the boxes are permanently fixed.
The illustration shows the internal metal hardware of an enclosure with eyebolt flying.

Flying with eyebolts

The Allen-head screws must be removed and replaced by M10 eyebolts on one side of the enclosure. Each rigging point has 200 kg (440 lb) working load limit. Then choose the slings or chains of required load resistance and length, bearing in mind that the length difference between the front and back slings or chains will determine the vertical orientation. Alternatively, the back bottom eyebolt points can be used to provide vertical orientation.
The ANL-2 set is an optional set of four eyebolts and four carabiners. (Dimensions are in milimetres).

Each ANL-2 eyebolt has a rated working load of 200 kg. (440 lb). Each ANL-2 carabiner has a working load of 330 kg (726 lb). If using other hardware, make sure it is rated to handle the required load.
When using eyebolts it is important to bear in mind that the rated working load is only true for a load applied in the plane of the eye, and is significantly reduced for other angles. The drawing illustrates the concept. The table shows the variation of the working load as a function of the load angle. In the case of the ANL-2 eyebolt, this means that the 200 kg working load becomes 60 kg at 45 degrees. Do not use eyebolt flying if the load angle is higher than 45 degrees.

DO NOT USE FOR SUSPENSION NO USE PARA EL COLGADO
The following illustrations show different views on eyebolt flying for a single box. The length of the back cables or chains determines the vertical angle of the box.

Line connections: unbalanced and balanced

There are two basic ways to transport an audio signal with microphone or line level:
Unbalanced line: Utilising a two conductor cable, it transports the signal as the voltage between them. Electromagnetic interference can get added to the signal as undesired noise. Connectors that carry unbalanced signals have two pins, such as RCA (Phono) and ¼" (6.35mm, often referred to as jack) mono. 3 pin connector such as XLR (Cannon) may also carry unbalanced signals if one of the pins is unused.
Balanced line: Utilising a three conductor cable, one of them acts as a shield against electromagnetic noise and is the ground conductor. The other two have the same voltage with respect to the ground conductor but with opposite signs. The noise that cannot be rejected by the shield affects both signal conductors in the same way. At the device's input the two signals get summed with opposite sign, so that noise is cancelled out while the programme signal doubles in level. Most professional audio devices use balanced inputs and outputs. Connectors that can carry balanced signal have three pins, such as XLR (Cannon) and ¼" (6.35mm) stereo.
The graphs that follow show the recommended connection with different types of connectors to balanced processor or amplifier inputs. The connectors on the left-hand side come from a signal source, and the ones on the right hand side go to the inputs of the processor or amplifier. Note that on the unbalanced connectors on the left-hand side, two terminals are joined inside the connector. If hum occurs with balanced to balanced connections, try disconnecting the sleeve (ground) on the input connector. Note that the illustrations show what should be connected to what, but that pin locations on an actual XLR connector are different. Also, pin 2 hot is assumed on XLR connectors.

DAS Audio Group, S.L.
C/Islas Baleares, 24
46988. Fuente del Jarro
Valencia - Spanien
Tel. +34 961 340 860

DAS do Brasil Ltd.
Rua Dos Andradas, 382 SL
Santa Efigênia, São Paulo
Brasilien. CEP: 01208-000
Tel. +551133330764

DAS Audio of America, Inc.
6900 NW 52nd Street Miami, FL
33166 – U.S.A
Tel. +1 305-436-0521

DAS Audio China
Han Kou Road 309, Room 302
Huang Pu District
上海市黄浦区汉口路309号302室
200001 – Shanghai – China
Tel. +86 21 5169 0869

DAS Audio Asia PTE. LTD.
9 Gray Lane 03-01
Signature Crest
Singapore 438951
Tel. +65-9739-5000

DAS Audio GmbH
Mülheimer Str. 48
53840 Troisdorf
Germany
Tel. +49 2241 945880
www.dasaudio.com