Samson Two Way Radio RT80 User Guide

Ea rAm p  
U H F W I R E L E S S I N E A R M O N I T O R  
OWNERS MANUAL  
U . S . V e r s i o n  
®
 
Introduction  
We know you don’t like reading owners manuals, but you’ve just purchased one of the most unique  
wireless audio products around, and we want to tell you about it! So, before you plug in and start making  
music, we’d like to suggest you take just a few moments out to scan these pages. We’ll make it as  
painless as possible, we promise—and, who knows, you might just pick up a tip or two.  
The Samson Wireless EarAmp® is designed to bring professional in-ear monitoring to a wide range of  
users. By eliminating the need for loud onstage “wedge” monitors, it allows you to hear yourself better,  
greatly reduces feedback problems, and makes the overall sound coming from the stage significantly  
cleaner. You’ll find that this portable, lightweight system provides superlative audio quality and extensive  
control at an extremely affordable price. Capable of operating in both stereo and dual mono “2-channel”  
mode, the Wireless EarAmp® receiver provides individual volume and balance controls for the best  
possible mix, separate bass and treble controls to fine-tune the signal, and a built-in adjustable limiter to  
protect your ears. The Wireless EarAmp® transmitter also offers a host of advanced features, including  
stereo/mono operation, dual stereo inputs with independent level controls and 15 dB attenuation pads,  
dual headphone outputs with dedicated level control, “daisy-chain” input/outputs for routing signal to or  
from external devices, a large backlit LCD display and a 5-segment audio VU meter—there’s even  
provision for optional computer remote control! Operating in the 614 - 662 MHz range, the Wireless  
EarAmp® system is extraordinarily frequency-agile, meaning that it can be used almost anywhere in the  
United States, and a unique automatic programming feature allows the receiver to instantly be set to the  
same radio frequency as the transmitter, with just the push of a single button.  
In these pages, you’ll find an overview of Wireless EarAmp® features, a “Quickstart” (for those of you  
with wireless experience), and a guided tour of its various controls. Then we’ll detail how to set up the  
Wireless EarAmp® as well as how to adjust it for the best sound quality. Finally, we’ll wrap things up with  
reference appendices and full specifications. You’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—please don’t for-  
get to fill it out and mail it so that you can receive online technical support and so we can send you updat-  
ed information about other Samson products in the future. Also, be sure to check out our website  
SPECIAL NOTE: Should your Wireless EarAmp® system ever require servicing, a Return Authorization  
number (RA) is necessary. Without this number, the unit will not be accepted. Please call Samson at  
1-800-372-6766 for a Return Authorization number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain the original  
packing materials and, if possible, return the Wireless EarAmp® in its original packing materials.  
WARNING!  
This product is capable of causing permanent damage  
to your hearing if used at excessive volumes!  
To protect your hearing, the Samson Wireless EarAmp® should always be used at as  
low a volume as possible. We recommend that you stringently follow the guidelines  
established by the U.S. Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) regarding  
maximum time exposure at various sound pressure levels:  
• Don’t use this product for more than 8 hours at 90 dB SPL  
• Don’t use this product for more than 4 hours at 95 dB SPL  
• Don’t use this product for more than 2 hours at 100 dB SPL  
• Don’t use this product for more than 1 hour at 105 dB SPL  
• Don’t use this product for more than 1/2 hour at 110 dB SPL  
• Don’t use this product for more than 15 minutes at 115 dB SPL  
• Don’t operate at listening levels of greater than 120 dB SPL!  
Pay attention to what your ears are telling you! Ringing is a sign that you have set the  
gain levels too high and that damage may result. We recommend that you consult with a  
qualified audiologist if you exhibit ringing or any other symptoms.  
1
 
Wire le s s EarAmp® Sys te m Fe ature s  
The Samson Wireless EarAmp® system utilizes state-of-the-art technology in personal monitoring.  
Its main features include:  
• Excellent audio quality, with superior frequency response and low distortion.  
• An extraordinary degree of frequency agility. The operating frequency can be selected either by  
Group and Channel (there are 8 Groups of 16 Channels each) or by direct frequency selection (in  
25 kHz increments between 614.35 and 662.0 MHz). This makes the Wireless EarAmp® eminently  
suitable for traveling performances and allows it to be used in even the most “RF-hostile” urban  
environments.  
• Group numbers correspond to U.S. TV channel numbers so it is easy to select a known vacant  
channel.  
• Any number of receivers can be used with a single transmitter.  
• Unique automatic receiver program function allows RF resetting at the push of a single button.  
• PLL synthesized technology minimizes spurious emissions and provides solid, stable performance.  
• Convenient belt clip for and flesh-colored ear buds for unobtrusive, nearly “invisible” usage.  
• Receiver offers dedicated volume and center detented balance controls, along with independent bass  
and treble controls allow each user to set up the optimum in-ear mix. There’s even a Loudness  
switch for improved legibility when operating at low signal levels.  
• Receiver provides stereo and dual mono (“2 CH”) modes for maximum flexibility. In “2 CH” mode, the  
balance control enables you to adjust the blend of the two incoming signals, which are mixed internal-  
ly to mono and routed to both ear buds.  
• Receiver has a high-powered 200 mW 1/8" (Walkman-type) headphone output, while the transmitter  
offers dual 1/4" and 1/8" (Walkman-type) headphone jacks.  
• Built-in adjustable limiter helps protect your ears from transients and signal overloads.  
• Receiver utilizes microprocessor true diversity for maximum range, tone key squelch for rejection of  
spurious signals, and noise reduction for crystal-clear sound.  
• Receiver operates on a standard 9-volt battery, with battery life of four hours or more.*  
• Battery LED indicator shows you when the receiver battery needs to be replaced.  
• Unique “daisy-chain” parallel inputs/outputs allow a third signal source to be input or external  
monitoring of incoming audio signal to the transmitter.  
• Transmitter operates in stereo or mono mode, and provides dual inputs (Main and Aux), with  
independently adjustable input level for each, as well as a five-segment input level VU meter to allow  
optimum gain settings. In addition, a large back-lit LCD display also shows the currently selected  
Group/Channel and radio frequency.  
• Switchable 15 dB pad for main and auxiliary inputs allows the Wireless EarAmp® system to be used  
with a wide variety of signal sources.  
• Transmitter is rack-mountable in any standard 19" rack (taking only a single space) for portability and  
easy integration into existing systems.  
• Computer interface allows optional remote control of all transmitter functions via software.  
• Rugged construction of all components makes the Wireless EarAmp® eminently roadworthy.  
* Typical usage. Actual battery life may vary depending upon headphone output level.  
2
 
QuickStart  
If you’ve had some prior experience using wireless systems, these QuickStart instructions will get you up  
and running with your Wireless EarAmp® system in a matter of minutes! Detailed instructions for setting  
up and using your Wireless EarAmp® can be found on pages 8 -11 of this manual, and the “Guided Tour”  
sections on pages 4 - 7 provide full descriptions of all transmitter and receiver controls and displays.  
1. Physically place the transmitter where it will be used, install its antenna, and extend it vertically.  
2. Place a fresh battery in the receiver and turn it on momentarily to check it; the receiver’s Battery LED  
will light red if the battery is weak and needs to be replaced.  
3. Turn off all audio equipment in your system and connect your mixer’s line, aux or cue outputs to the  
transmitter’s Main inputs. If you want to transmit additional signal, use the Aux and/or Daisy Chain  
inputs.  
4. Connect the supplied AC adapter (don’t use substitutes!) to the DC Input on the rear panel of the  
transmitter (first looping the cable around the strain relief), then plug it into a 3-pin grounded AC socket.  
5. Set the Phones Level and Input Level controls on the transmitter to minimum (to the “-10” position)  
and then turn the transmitter on by pressing its Power switch; the front-panel LCD will light up.  
6. Turn on the power to the receiver, place both of its antennas in an upright position, and set the  
Volume knob to minimum (fully counterclockwise). Do not place the earbuds in your ears yet.  
7. Set the transmitter to either Group/Channel mode (by pressing the CH. button) or Frequency mode  
(by pressing the FREQ button). Group/Channel mode must be used whenever there are two or more  
transmitters being used in the same location.  
7a. If in Group/Channel mode, use the Up/Down buttons to select a Channel. Press both the CH. and  
FREQ buttons simultaneously to enable Group selection (again, using the Up/Down buttons).  
7b. If in Frequency mode, use the Up/Down buttons to select a frequency between 614.35 and 662.0  
MHz, in 25 kHz increments.  
8. To set the receiver to the same radio frequency, turn its Program switch off, then on (towards the “up”  
arrow) and then, within ten seconds, press and hold the transmitter’s Program button for at least three  
seconds. When correctly programmed, the receiver’s TX LED will flash.  
9. Do a walkaround through the intended area of coverage while observing the receiver’s TX LED as you  
do so (it will light steadily green when receiving valid tone pilot signal). Reposition antennas or select a  
different Group/Channel or frequency as necessary.  
10. Turn on your mixer and set the level of the signal you’re sending to the transmitter to unity gain  
(0 vu). Then slowly raise the transmitter’s Input Level control while observing the level meters; the “0”  
segment should light frequently, the “+6” segment only infrequently. If you have signal connected to the  
Aux inputs, use a screwdriver to adjust the rear-panel Aux Input control. If you are sending very hot  
signal to the transmitter, you may need to set either the Main and/or Aux Attenuator switch to “-15 dB.”  
The audio signal can be monitored by connecting a pair of headphones to the transmitter and slowly  
raising the Headphone Level control or by connecting the Daisy-Chain outputs to an external monitoring  
system.  
11. Set the receiver’s 2 CH/Stereo mode switch as desired (see Appendix C for details). Connect the  
supplied earbuds (or third-party earpiece) to the receiver’s headphone jack and place them in your ears.  
Slowly turn up the receiver’s volume control until you achieve the desired level. The EarAmp® receiver  
should always be used at as low a volume as possible. If you hear ringing in your ears, turn  
down the volume control and operate it at a lower level!  
12. Adjust the receiver’s Balance control and Limiter Level, Bass and Treble trimpots as desired. If  
you’re operating at low signal levels, turning the loudness control on will help improve legibility. Close the  
battery door and clip the receiver to your belt.  
3
 
Guide d Tour -  
Wire le s s EarAmTrans mitte r Front Pane l  
1
2a 2b  
3
4
5 6 7 8  
9
10  
11  
AA  
S A M S O N  
PHONES  
PHONES LEVEL  
0
INPUT LEVEL  
0
®
EarAmp  
LEFT  
+6  
0
RIGHT  
CH.  
PROGRAM  
STEREO TRANSMITTER  
UP  
2
-2  
2
-2  
-6  
GROUP  
FREQ  
-4  
4
-4  
4
-12  
-18  
DOWN  
-6  
-8  
-6  
-8  
6
6
8
8
-10  
10  
-10  
10  
POWER  
RT80 UHF SYNTHESIZED  
1: Power switch - Use this to turn the main power on and off. When the transmitter is on, the display  
section (see #9 below) is lit.  
2a: 1/4" Headphone jack - Connect any standard stereo headphones to this jack (via a 1/4" TRS plug)  
in order to monitor the audio signal connected to the transmitter’s rear panel input jack(s) (see #3, #7,  
and #8 on the following page). The built-in headphone preamp delivers approximately 200 mw of power.  
2b: 1/8" (35 mm) Headphone jack - Connect any Walkman-style stereo headphones to this jack (via a  
1/4" TRS plug) in order to monitor the audio signal connected to the transmitter’s rear panel input jack(s)  
(see #3, #7, and #8 on the following page).  
3: Phone Level control - This knob sets the level of the signal sent to the headphone jacks (see #2a  
and #2b above). WARNING: To avoid possible damage to connected headphones (or, worse yet, to  
your ears!), always turn this all the way off (to the fully counterclockwise “0” position) before plugging in a  
pair of headphones—then raise the level slowly while listening.  
4: Input Level control - This knob sets the incoming level of the audio signal connected to the  
transmitter’s Main rear panel input jack(s) (see #3 on the following page). See #5 below.  
5: Level meters - These five-segment “ladder” meters (similar to the VU bar meters used on audio  
devices) show the strength of incoming audio signal. For best signal-to-noise ratio, adjust the Input Level  
control (see #4 above) so that the yellow “0” segment lights frequently, with the red “+6” segment lighting  
only infrequently during the very highest signal peaks. If you hear distortion, back the control off slightly.  
6: CH. (Channel) button - Press this button to place the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter in  
“Group/Channel” mode. See the “Setting Up and Using The Wireless EarAmp®” section and Appendix A  
on pages 8 and 10 of this manual for more information.  
7: FREQ (Frequency) button - Press this button to place the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter in  
“Frequency” mode. See the “Setting Up and Using The Wireless EarAmp®” section and Appendix A on  
pages 8 and 10 of this manual for more information.  
8: Up/Down buttons - Use these to select the desired Group or Channel (when the transmitter is in  
“Group/Channel” mode) or to select the desired frequency (when the transmitter is in “Frequency” mode).  
See the “Setting Up and Using The Wireless EarAmp®” section and Appendix A on pages 8 and 10 of  
this manual for more information.  
9: Display - This backlit two-line Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) shows the currently selected Group and  
Channel or the currently selected frequency.  
10: Program button - Press and hold down this button for two seconds or more within ten seconds of  
turning on the receiver Program switch (see #7 on page 6) in order to reprogram the receiver to utilize the  
currently selected frequency. See Appendix A on page 10 of this manual for more information.  
11. Antenna - In normal operation, the antenna should be placed in a vertical position. See the  
“Setting Up and Using The Wireless EarAmp®” section on page 8 of this manual for more information.  
4
 
Guide d Tour -  
Wire le s s EarAmTrans mitte r Re ar Pane l  
1
2
3
4
3
5
6
8
9
7
8
PUSH  
PUSH  
CAUTION  
USE SAMSON  
AC ADAPTOR  
ONLY  
INTERFACE  
MAIN INPUTS  
DAISY CHAIN  
S A M S O N RT80 UHF SYNTHESIZED STEREO MONITOR TRANSMITTER  
XLR  
1
2
3
GND  
HOT  
COLD  
AUXILIARY  
0
DC INPUT  
A
2
2
1
1
-2  
2
-4  
-6  
-8  
4
STEREO  
MONO  
0dB  
-15dB  
0dB  
-15dB  
CABLE LOCK:  
LOOP THRU  
AND TIE  
3
3
6
8
SERIAL NUMBER  
-10  
10  
MADE IN USA  
LEFT AUX INPUT  
(MONO)  
AUX INPUT  
ATTENUATOR  
RIGHT AUX INPUT  
AUX INPUT LEVEL  
RJ45 SERIAL PORT  
PARALLEL LEFT  
IN/OUT  
PARALLEL RIGHT  
IN/OUT  
INPUT LEFT (MONO)  
ATTENUATOR  
INPUT RIGHT  
+
-
1: DC input - Connect the supplied power adapter here, using the strain relief as silkscreened on the  
rear panel. WARNING: The substitution of any other kind of power adapter can cause severe damage to  
the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter and will void your warranty.  
2: Stereo/Mono switch - When set to Stereo,the incoming left and right audio signal(s) are kept  
separate; when set to Mono,only signal connected to the left Main and.or Aux input (see #4 and #8  
below) is used (the right signal is muted) and is transmitted to both channels of the receiver.  
3: Aux Inputs - Use these two balanced 1/4" TRS (Tip/Ring/Sleeve) jacks when you wish to connect a  
secondary signal to the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter. Wiring is Tip hot, Ring cold, and Sleeve ground.  
We recommend the use of balanced three-conductor cabling wherever possible (unbalanced two-  
conductor 1/4" plugs can also be inserted into these inputs, but youll get better signal quality and less  
outside noise and hum if you use balanced lines). When connecting a monophonic signal, use the left  
jack only and set the Stereo/Mono switch (see #2 above) to the Monoposition.  
4: Aux Input Attenuator switch - A 15 dB attenuator (pad) for the Aux inputs. In normal operation, this  
switch should be set to the left 0 dBposition. If the incoming signal is too strong and is distorting, set  
this to the right -15 dBposition.  
5: Aux Input Level control - Use a screwdriver to adjust this control until the desired level of Aux signal  
(relative to the Main signal) is reached. If nothing is connected to the Aux Inputs (see #3 above), this  
should be left at its fully counterclockwise position (completely off).  
6: RJ45 Serial Port - Used to connect the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter to a computer for optional  
remote control via software.  
7: Daisy Chain Inputs/Outputs - These balanced 1/4" TRS (Tip/Ring/Sleeve) jacks are wired in parallel  
with the Main inputs (see #8 below) and can be used to route the incoming Main signal to external  
devices at unity gain. Alternatively, they can be used as inputs, bringing a third stereo or mono signal  
into the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter (albeit without an attenuator switch or level control) if necessary.  
Wiring is Tip hot, Ring cold, and Sleeve ground. See the Setting Up and Using The Wireless EarAmp®”  
section on page 8 of this manual for more information.  
8: Main Inputs - Connect incoming signal to these electronically balanced Combination connectors,  
using either XLR or 1/4" TRS (Tip/Ring/Sleeve) connectors, wired as follows: Pin 2 (or Tip) hot, Pin 3 (or  
Ring) cold, and Pin 1 (or Sleeve) ground. We recommend the use of balanced three-conductor cabling  
wherever possible (unbalanced two-conductor 1/4" cables can also be inserted into these inputs, but  
youll get better signal quality and less outside noise and hum if you use balanced lines). When  
connecting a monophonic signal, use the left jack only and set the Stereo/Mono switch (see #2 above) to  
the Monoposition.  
9: Main Input Attenuator switch - A 15 dB attenuator (pad) for the Main inputs. In normal operation,  
this switch should be set to the left 0 dBposition. If the incoming signal is too strong and is distorting,  
set this to the right -15 dBposition.  
5
 
Guide d Tour - Wire le s s EarAmp® Re ce ive r  
1: Battery door release - Press this latch gently upwards in order to open  
the battery door and access the controls contained within. When closing the  
battery door, swing it gently upwards until you hear this latch click.  
EarAmp®  
2: Antennas - In normal operation, these two antennas should be placed in  
a vertical position; however, the swivel mountings can be used to adjust the  
antenna positioning as necessary. See the Setting Up and Using The  
Wireless EarAmp®” section on page 8 of this manual for more information.  
1
2
3: Limiter level control (trimpot) - Use the supplied screwdriver to adjust  
this as necessary. The Wireless EarAmps built-in limiter circuitry is  
designed to protect your ears against signal overload. As the limiter level  
control is turned clockwise, the limiter threshold is reduced, causing the  
limiting circuitry to kick inat lower input signal strengths. As it is turned  
counterclockwise, the limiter threshold is increased, so that the limiting  
circuitry only operates at relatively high input signal strengths.  
2
S A M S O N  
UHF STEREO MONITOR AMP  
4. Bass control (trimpot) - Use the supplied screwdriver to adjust this as  
necessary. As the bass control is turned counterclockwise, bass response  
is reduced by up to 10 dB; as it is turned clockwise, bass response is  
increased by up to 10 dB. The bass control affects frequencies at around  
150 Hz.  
5: Treble control (trimpot) - Use the supplied screwdriver to adjust this as  
necessary. As the treble control is turned counterclockwise, treble response  
is reduced by up to 10 dB; as it is turned clockwise, treble response is  
increased by up to10 dB. The treble control affects frequencies at around  
5 kHz.  
6
7
8
6. 2 CH / Stereo switch - When set to the down, Stereoposition,  
incoming left channel signal is routed to the left earbud and incoming right  
channel signal is routed to the right earbud. In Stereomode, the Balance  
control (see #14 on the following page) can be used to increase the relative  
level of one channel or the other. When set to the up, 2 CHposition, both  
incoming channels are internally mixed to mono and routed to both the left  
and right earbuds. The Balance control (see #14 on the following page) is  
then used to regulate the relative amounts of the two incoming signals.  
See Appendix C on page 12 in this manual for more information.  
EarAmp®  
1
2
2 CH  
ON  
A
STEREO  
MODE  
OFF  
2
9
PGM. POWER  
3
4
5
+
-
LIMITER LEVEL  
BASS  
TREBLE  
7. PGM (Program) switch - In normal operation, leave this switch in the up  
position (towards the arrow). This switch is also used to reprogram the  
receiver to a new RF frequencysee the Setting Up and Using The  
Wireless EarAmp®” section on page 8 of this manual for more information.  
8. Power On/Off switch - As you might have guessed, this is what you use  
to turn the Wireless EarAmp® receiver on or off. To conserve battery  
strength, leave the unit off when it is not being used.  
9. Battery holder - Insert a standard 9-volt alkaline battery here, observing  
the plus and minus polarity markings shown. We recommend the Duracell  
MN 1604 type battery. Although rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries can be used,  
they do not supply adequate current for more than two hours. WARNING:  
Do not insert the battery backwards; doing so can cause severe damage to  
the Wireless EarAmp® and will void your warranty.  
6
 
Guide d Tour - Wire le s s EarAmp® Re ce ive r  
10  
11  
12 13 14 15  
PHONES  
L
R
LOUDNESS  
VOLUME  
TX BALANCE  
10: Headphone jack - Connect the supplied stereo earbuds (or third-party earpiecessee Appendix D  
on page 13 in this manual for more information) to this standard 1/8" (3.5 mm) mini-phone jack in order to  
monitor the signal being output by the Wireless EarAmp®. The level of the headphone signal is set by  
adjusting the Volume control (see #12 below). Maximum output is 200 mW @ 32 ohms.  
11: Loudness switch - At normal listening levels, this should be left off (with the switch to the left).  
When using the Wireless EarAmp® at low signal levels, turning this on (placing the switch on the right)  
will improve legibility by boosting both bass and treble frequencies.  
12: Volume control - Use this to set the level of the signal in connected earbuds.  
13: Battery LED - This LED lights red when battery level is low and the battery needs to be replaced.  
14: TX LED - This LED lights steadily green whenever the Wireless EarAmp® receiver is receiving RF  
signal from the transmitter and flashes when the receiver is being reprogrammed to operate at a different  
radio frequency. Both the receiver and transmitter must be set to the same RF frequency for correct  
operation. See the Setting Up and Using The Wireless EarAmp®” section on page 8 of this manual for  
information on how to program the receiver to operate at the selected transmitter frequency.  
15: Balance control - Adjusts the relative levels of the two signals being received by the Wireless  
EarAmp®. When set at the center 12 oclock position, both signals are presented to connected earbuds  
at equal strength. When the Wireless EarAmp® is operating in Stereomode (that is, when the  
2 CH/Stereo switch [see #6 on the previous page] is set to Stereo,) turning the balance control  
clockwise increases the relative amount of right channel signal (that is, the signal in your right ear) and  
turning it counterclockwise increases the relative amount of left channel signal (that is, the signal in your  
left ear). When the Wireless EarAmp® is operating in 2 CHmode (that is, when the 2 CH/Stereo switch  
[see #6 on the previous page] is set to 2 CH,) both channels are internally mixed to mono and routed to  
both earbuds. In 2 CH mode, turning the balance control clockwise increases the relative amount of right  
channel signal (though it will be heard in both ears) and turning it counterclockwise increases the relative  
amount of left channel signal (again, heard in both ears). See Appendix C on page 12 in this manual for  
more information  
16: Belt clip - Use this to clip the Wireless EarAmp® receiver to your belt for convenient operation.  
16  
7
 
Se tting Up and Us ing The Wire le s s EarAmp®  
Setting up your Wireless EarAmp® is a simple procedure which takes only a few minutes:  
1. Remove all packing materials (save them in case of need for future service) and locate the  
Wireless EarAmp® transmitter so that there is an unobstructed line of sight between it and the receiver(s)  
in your system (any number of receiversall receiving the same signalcan be used with a single  
transmitter. Be sure, however, that the receivers never come within 10 feet of the tranmitter antenna).  
For convenience, the EarAmp® transmitter is rack-mountable, requiring just a single space. Mount the  
supplied antenna to the transmitter by inserting the BNC connector and twisting clockwise until snug.  
The antenna mounting is adjustable; however, it is best to begin with it in an upright position.  
2. Press gently up on the EarAmp® receivers battery door release (see #1 on page 6) and swing the  
door open in order to access the battery compartment. Note that the door is hinged and is not intended  
to be removed from the case. Insert a 9-volt alkaline battery, being careful to observe the polarity  
markings. Warning: Reversing the battery polarity may cause permanent damage to your  
EarAmp® receiver.  
3. Turn the receiver power switch On(see #8 on page 6). The Battery LED (see #13 on page 7) will  
light red if the battery is weak and needs to be replaced. Once youve verified battery strength, turn the  
power switch Offagain.  
4. Close the receiver battery door by swinging it gently upwards until you hear the door release click.  
5. Turn off all audio equipment (mixers, amplifiers, etc.) in your system and make the physical cable  
connections between your mixer (typically aux sends, cue sends or line outputs) and the Main inputs of  
your Wireless EarAmp® transmitter. WARNING: Be sure to connect only line-level inputs to the  
EarAmp® transmitter; connecting amplifier outputs or other powered (speaker) outputs can  
cause severe damage and will void your warranty. If you want to transmit additional signal, use the  
Aux inputs and/or the Daisy Chain inputs. Note that the Daisy Chain inputs can also serve as outputs,  
routing the signal connected to the Main inputs at unity gain. We recommend the use of balanced three-  
conductor cabling wherever possible (unbalanced two-conductor 1/4" plugs can also be inserted into  
these inputs, but youll get better signal quality and less outside noise and hum if you use balanced  
lines). When connecting stereo signals, set the rear panel Stereo/Mono switch to the Stereoposition.  
When connecting monophonic signal(s), use the left jack(s) only and set the rear panel Stereo/Mono  
switch to the Monoposition.  
6. Connect the supplied power adapter to the transmitters rear panel DC connector (first looping the  
cable around the strain relief, as silk-screened on the rear panel) and plug the other end into any 3-pin  
grounded AC socket. WARNING: The substitution of any other kind of power adapter can cause  
severe damage to the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter and will void your warranty.  
7. Turn the Phones Level and Input Level controls on the EarAmp® transmitter completely  
counterclockwise (to the -10position) and depress the front panel power switch to turn the unit on.  
The display section will light up.  
8. Next, select the radio frequency you wish to use for your transmitter and receiver(s). Turn on the  
power to your Wireless EarAmp® receiver, place both antennas in an upright position, and set the  
Volume knob to minimum (fully counterclockwise). Do not place the earbuds in your ears yet.  
8a. If only a single EarAmp® system is being used, the transmitter can be placed in Frequencymode  
by pressing the front-panel Frequency button; the Up/Down buttons can then be used to directly enter the  
desired radio frequency. However, if two or more transmitters and receivers are being used at the same  
location, the Wireless EarAmp® transmitter must be set to Group/Channel mode, by pressing the front-  
panel Channel button. In a multi-transmitter setup, all devices must be set to the same Group (though  
each transmitter/receiver pair must use its own Channel) or intermodulation noise may occur. Press both  
the Channel and Frequency buttons simultaneously; the word Groupwill begin flashing. The Up/Down  
buttons can now be used to select the desired Group. Once youve selected the Group you want, press  
the Channel button again and use the Up/Down buttons to select a Channel within that Group (see  
Appendix B on page 11 in this manual for a complete channel plan).  
8
 
Se tting Up and Us ing The Wire le s s EarAmp®  
8b. In the receiver, turn the Program switch off, then on (towards the uparrow) and then, within ten  
seconds, press and hold the transmitters front-panel Program button for at least three seconds in order  
to program the receiver; when correctly programmed, the TX LED on top of the receiver will flash (see  
Appendix A on page 10 in this manual for more details). Note that the Program switch must always be  
on (toward the uparrow) for correct operation of the receiver.  
9. When first setting up the Wireless EarAmp® system in a new environment, its always a good idea to  
do a walkaround while experimenting with different frequency settings, observing the receivers TX LED  
as you do so. If the light fails to light steadily as you move through the area that needs to be covered ,  
the receiver may be receiving interference and the selected frequency or Group/Channel is probably  
unsuitable for use. Always pick the Group that has the greatest number of clear Channels and the  
Channel providing the strongest signal. The basic rule of thumb for successful wireless installations is to  
always try to minimize the distance between transmitter and receiver as much as possible (though not  
less than 10 feet) and also to try to maintain line of sightbetween the two (so that the person using the  
receiver can see the transmitter antenna). You may also be able to improve RF reception by relocating  
the transmitter or repositioning antennas.  
10. Once youve settled on the radio frequency you want to use, its time to set the audio levels. Turn on  
your mixer and set the level of the signal youre sending to the transmitter to unity gain (0 vu). Then  
slowly raise the transmitters front-panel Input Level control while observing the level meters. For best  
signal-to-noise ratio, adjust the Input Level control so that the yellow 0segment lights frequently, with  
the red +6segment lighting only infrequently during the very highest signal peaks. If you have signal  
connected to the Aux inputs, use a screwdriver to adjust the rear-panel Aux Input control. If you are  
sending very hot signal to the EarAmp® transmitter, you may need to set either the Main and/or Aux  
Attenuator switch to -15 dB.To monitor the signal arriving at the transmitter, either connect a set of  
headphones to either headphone jack and slowly raise the Headphone Level control or connect the  
rear-panel Daisy-Chain outputs to an amp and speakers (or a pair of self-powered speakers). If you  
hear distortion, back the Input Level control off slightly.  
11. Set the receivers 2 CH/Stereo mode switch as desired. In Stereo mode, the two incoming signals  
are routed to the left and right earbuds, respectively. In 2 CH mode, the two incoming signals are inter-  
nally mixed to mono and both signals are routed to both earbuds. If the signal to be monitored is mono,  
set the 2 CH / Stereo switch to the up, 2 CHposition. See Appendix C on page 12 in this manual for  
more information about the use of 2 CH mode.  
12. Start by setting the receivers Balance control (see #15 on page 7) to its center detented position.  
and by turning the Loudness switch (see #11 on page 7) off.  
13. Connect the supplied earbuds (or third-party earpiecesee Appendix D on page 13) to the  
receivers headphone jack (see #10 on page 7) and place them in your ears.  
14. Finally, while playing or singing at a normal performance level, slowly turn up the receivers volume  
control until you achieve the desired level. The EarAmp® receiver should always be used at as low a  
volume as possible. If you hear ringing in your ears, turn down the volume control and operate it  
at a lower level!  
15. Adjust the Balance control as needed in order to get the best blend of the incoming signals. If  
necessary, use the supplied screwdriver to adjust the Limiter Level, Bass and Treble trimpots (see #3, 4  
and 5 on page 6) in order to optimize the sound youre hearing. If youre operating at low signal levels,  
turning the loudness control on will help improve legibility.  
16. Close the battery door and clip the receiver to your belt.  
If you encounter difficulty with any aspect of setting up or using your Wireless EarAmp®, you can call  
Samson Technical Support (1-800-372-6766) between 9 AM and 5 PM EST.  
9
 
Appe ndix A: Se tting the Wire le s s EarAmp™  
Radio Fre que ncy  
The Samson Wireless EarAmp® is extraordinarily frequency-agile, offering more than 128 different radio  
frequencies and two different modes of operation. In Group/Channel mode, you can access a  
factory-programmed channel plan (see Appendix B on the following page) that allows you to use up to  
sixteen different systems together at the same location (assuming all frequencies are available).  
Alternatively, Frequency mode allows you to directly dial inany radio frequency between 614.35 and  
662.0 MHz, in 25 kHz increments. Either mode can be used when only one Transmitter (with any  
number of receivers) is being utilized; however, in locations where more than one Transmitter is used,  
we strongly advise the use of Group/Channel mode. Note that Group numbers correspond to U.S. TV  
channel numbers, making it easy to select a known vacant channel.  
To s e t the Wire le s s EarAmp® radio fre que ncy in Group/ Channe l mode :  
1. Press the transmitters front-panel CH. (Channel) button (this sets Group/Channel mode).  
2. Press the front-panel CH. (Channel) and FREQ (Frequency) buttons simultaneously. The word  
Groupin the display will begin flashing.  
3. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the desired Group, from 38 to 45 (these correspond to U.S.  
TV channel numbers). Note that, if you make no selection within five seconds, the word Group”  
will stop flashing.  
4. If the word Groupis still flashing in the display, press the Channel button to stop it flashing.  
Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the desired Channel (from 1 to 16) within the selected  
Group. The bottom line of the display shows the actual frequency of that Channel (see the  
Channel Plan in Appendix B on the following page).  
5. In the receiver, turn the Program switch off, then on (towards the uparrow) and then, within ten  
seconds, press and hold the transmitters front-panel Program button for at least three seconds,  
until the TX LED on the receiver flashes. This confirms that the receiver is set to the same  
radio frequency as the transmitter.  
6. The TX LED in the receiver will always light steadily green when it is correctly set to the same  
frequency as the transmitter and is receiving pilot tone. If it does not do so, reprogram it  
(following step 5 above) until you see the TX LED flash.  
To s e t the Wire le s s EarAmp® radio fre que ncy in Fre que ncy mode :  
1. Press the transmitters front-panel FREQ (Frequency) button (this sets Frequency mode).  
2. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the desired Frequency, from 614.350 MHz to 662.000 MHz.  
Each press of the UP/DOWN button increments or decrements the frequency by 25 kHz. Press  
and hold down the UP or DOWN button to rapidly increase or decrease the frequency.  
3. In the receiver, turn the Program switch off, then on (towards the uparrow) and then, within ten  
seconds, press and hold the transmitters front-panel Program button for at least three seconds,  
until the TX LED on the receiver flashes. This confirms that the receiver is set to the same  
radio frequency as the transmitter.  
4. The TX LED in the receiver will always light steadily green when it is correctly set to the same  
frequency as the transmitter and is receiving pilot tone. If it does not do so, reprogram it  
(following step 5 above) until you see the TX LED flash.  
Note that both the transmitter and receiver in the Wireless EarAmp® system always retain their RF  
settings even after being powered offin the case of the receiver, even after the battery is removed.  
10  
 
Appe ndix B: Wire le s s EarAmp® Channe l Plan  
Wire le s s EarAmp® Channe l Plan:  
(All frequency values are in MHz)  
Channel Group  
38  
Group  
39  
Group  
40  
Group  
41  
Group  
42  
Group  
43  
Group  
44  
Group  
45  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
614.35  
616.10  
616.50  
617.40  
619.30  
620.00  
614.70  
615.05  
615.40  
615.75  
617.00  
617.80  
618.15  
618.50  
618.85  
619.65  
620.35  
622.10  
622.50  
623.40  
625.30  
626.00  
620.70  
621.05  
621.40  
621.75  
623.00  
623.80  
624.15  
624.50  
624.85  
625.65  
626.35  
628.10  
628.50  
629.40  
631.30  
632.00  
626.70  
627.05  
627.40  
627.75  
629.00  
629.80  
630.15  
630.50  
630.85  
631.65  
632.35  
634.10  
634.50  
635.40  
637.30  
638.00  
632.70  
633.05  
633.40  
633.75  
635.00  
635.80  
636.15  
636.50  
636.85  
637.65  
638.35  
640.10  
640.50  
641.40  
643.30  
644.00  
638.70  
639.05  
639.40  
639.75  
641.00  
641.80  
642.15  
642.50  
642.85  
643.65  
644.35  
646.10  
646.50  
647.40  
649.30  
650.00  
644.70  
645.05  
645.40  
645.75  
647.00  
647.80  
648.15  
648.50  
648.85  
649.65  
650.35  
652.10  
652.50  
653.40  
655.30  
656.00  
650.70  
651.05  
651.40  
651.75  
653.00  
653.80  
654.15  
654.50  
654.85  
655.65  
656.35  
658.10  
658.50  
659.40  
661.30  
662.00  
656.70  
657.05  
657.40  
657.75  
659.00  
659.80  
660.15  
660.50  
660.85  
661.65  
11  
 
Appe ndix C: Us ing 2 Ch Mode  
The Wireless EarAmp®’s unique dual mono 2 CHmode makes it possible for you to have direct control  
over the blend of two separate signals, simply by turning the Balance knob. If youre a vocalist, the most  
typical application is to route the vocal signal only to one mixer aux send and the instrument  
accompaniment signal to the other aux send, as shown in the illustration below. This way, by turning the  
Balance knob one way, youll hear more of your vocal and less of the instruments; by turning it the other  
way, youll hear less of your vocal and more of the instruments.  
S
A
M
S
O
N
MMPL2242  
MPL2242  
M
P
L
2
2
4
2
Aux 1  
out  
(vocal)  
Aux 2  
out  
(instruments)  
EarAmp®  
ANA  
S
A
M
S
O
N
PHONES  
PHONES LEVEL  
0
INPUT LEVEL  
®
EarAmp  
LEFT  
+6  
0
RIGHT  
PROGRAM  
S
T
E
R
E
O
T
R
A
N
S
M
I
T
T
E
R
CH.  
UP  
0
-2  
2
-2  
2
-6  
GROUP  
-4  
4
-4  
4
-12  
-18  
DOWN  
-6  
-8  
-6  
-8  
6
6
FREQ  
8
8
-10  
10  
-10  
10  
S A M S O N  
POWER  
RT80 UHF SYNTHESIZED  
UHF STEREO MONITOR AMP  
Similarly, if youre a guitarist, you can route guitar signal only to one mixer aux send and a mix of all other  
signals to the other mixer aux send; the Wireless EarAmp® Balance control will then give you the ability  
to hear as much or as little of your instrumentrelative to the overall mixas you like.  
12  
 
Appe ndix D: Us ing Third-Party Earpie ce s  
If you listen to the earbuds supplied with the Samson Wireless EarAmpon their own, they may sound a  
little overbright to you. Thats because they have been specifically designed to allow a certain degree of  
outside sounds to enter so as to yield a natural sound onstage, where bass frequencies will leak into  
make for a full-spectrum tone.  
If you prefer, you can subsitute the earpiece of your choice for these earbudseven standard  
Walkman™”-type headphones will work well. You may even want to use an earbud that has been  
custom-molded to your ear. Feel free to contact the following manufacturers for information about the  
custom earpieces they offer. Note that Samson makes no claims, representations or warranties  
regarding these manufacturers or their products.  
Sensaphonics  
660 North Milwaukee  
Chicago, IL 60622  
312-432-1714  
Westone Labs  
P.O. Box 15100  
Colorado Springs, CO 80935  
719-540-9333  
Ultimate Ears  
2657 Windmill Parkway #391  
Henderson, NV 89014  
702-263-7805  
Firehouse Productions  
RR2 Box 256  
Red Hook, NY 12571  
914-758-9898  
Precision Earmold Laboratories  
830 Sunshine Lane  
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714  
800-327-4792  
The Earmold Company, Ltd.  
P.O. Box 3320  
Salem, VA 24153  
800-798-2196  
Great Lakes Earmold Laboratory  
750 Ken-Mar Industrial Parkway  
Broadview Heights, OH 44147  
800-842-8184  
Microsonic  
1421 Merchant Street  
Ambridge, PA 15003  
800-523-7672  
13  
 
Spe cifications  
SYSTEM  
Frequency Coverage  
Channels Available  
614 to 662 MHz  
128 (8 groups with 16 channels each)  
Direct frequency selection to nearest 25 kHz  
Channel Selection  
Transmitter:  
Front panel selection of group and channel or direct frequency select  
Backlit LCD indicates actual operating frequency at all times, in addition to group and channel  
Receiver:  
Auto programmed via RF data transfer from transmitter  
Program mode is activated by program switches on transmitter and receiver  
RF Range:  
Approximately 300 feet (91 m)  
FM, Multiplex Stereo. +/- 50 kHz deviation of main carrier  
Samson compandor system  
System Modulation:  
Noise Reduction:  
Audio Frequency Response:  
Audio Distortion:  
S/N Ratio:  
40 Hz to 15 kHz  
0.8% nominal  
> 80 dB (> 50 uV at receiver, stereo or > 15 uV at receiver, mono)  
40 dB nominal  
Stereo Channel Separation:  
TRANSMITTER  
RF Output  
50 mW  
Main Audio Inputs (L & R)  
Connectors  
Neutrik Combo (XLR or 1/4" phone) jacks  
40K Ohms, balanced or 20K Ohms, unbalanced  
Switch selected, 0 or 15 dB  
Impedance  
Attenuator  
Level  
- 10 dBu nominal, + 11 dBu maximum (attenuator out)  
+ 4 dBu nominal, + 25 dBu maximum (attenuator in)  
Daisy-Chain Out (L & R)  
Connectors  
1/4" phone jacks  
Electrical  
Wired in parallel with main audio inputs  
AUX Audio Inputs (L & R)  
Connectors  
1/4" phone jacks  
40K Ohms, balanced or 20K Ohms, unbalanced  
Impedance  
Attenuator  
Level  
Switch selected, 0 or 15 dB dedicated to the AUX inputs  
- 10 dBu nominal, + 11 dBu maximum (AUX attenuator out)  
+ 4 dBu nominal, + 25 dBu maximum (AUX attenuator in)  
Limiter  
Limits maximum modulation to comply with regulatory limits  
Permits overdrive up to 20 dB with low distortion  
Power  
12 VDC, 500 mA from supplied AC adapter  
RECEIVER  
Audio Output Power  
200 mW / CH, 1% THD into 32 Ohm load, 9 VDC  
120 mW / CH, 1% THD into 32 Ohm load, 7 VDC  
70 mW / CH, 1% THD into 32 Ohm load, 6 VDC  
Audio Output Limiter  
Low Frequency EQ  
High Frequency EQ  
Loudness Switch  
Adjustable from > 200 mW to < 50 mW into 32 Ohms  
+/- 10 dB @ 150 Hz  
+/- 10 dB @ 5000 Hz  
Flat or Loudness contour, selectable with slide switch  
Battery Requirement  
7 VDC to 9 VDC for full spec operation up to 120 mW audio output  
6 VDC to 7 VDC for reduced spec operation  
9 V Alkaline or Alkaline Plus (Duracell MN1604 Ultra is suggested)  
Low Battery LED  
Battery Life  
Illuminates when voltage drops below 7 VDC  
4 hours typical volume level dependent  
14  
 

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