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Q1: Any tips on how to locate/position SLIMstage in the room for the best performance?
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While SLIMstage performs well in virtually any application, like all loudspeakers, best performance will be achieved if one takes a bit of care in its placement.
Best Hi-Fidelity: The system should always be centered in front of the listener(s) using the tilt-able feet or wall bracket to point the SLIMstage's front grille directly at the listener(s). If in a cabinet, move as far forward as possible to allow widest dispersion.
Best Surround: All surround systems have a "sweet spot" the place where the surround effect is maximized , this is an areas size varies depending on your distance from the SLIMstage...if your main listening is closer than 9 feet, be sure and re-set the DISTANCE position in the setup menu.
Best Bass: Placing any speaker against a heavy hard surface will reinforce (increase) its bass. The more surfaces SLIMstage sits against, the more bass. Least bass would be floating in the middle of the room. Most bass would be in a corner at the floor or ceiling. Also, since the builtin woofers fire down, there must be adequate space left below the unit (about 3/4 inch) for the bass to vent into the room.
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Q2: The bass is surprisingly good for such a small all-in-onebox... but I want more! Can I add an external subwoofer?
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Yes, SLIMstage has a subwoofer output jack for connecting to the acoustically-matched soundmatters SUBstage™, or virtually any good-quality hi-fi powered subwoofer. SLIMstage's sub out is a space-saving 1/8" mini-jack, so if you're not using our SUBstage; you'll need an 1/8" stereo mini to RCA adapter for most subwoofers (included with the SUBstage).
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Q3: I love the SLIMstage, but want more volume?
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Here are some options - add an external subwoofer such as a SUBstage (or two) and/or add an additional SLIMstage in the back for the rear channels and/or upgrade to a larger SLIMstage. If the problem occurs only when using a specific source you may be able to increase sensitivity of the connected input (see ADVANCED SETTINGS> INPUT PARAMETERS>SENSITIVITY).
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Q4: How do I control the SLIMstage and my TV from a single remote control?
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The SLIMstage's remote control functions are easily captured by most "third party" learning remote controls. The SLIMstage's volume can also be controlled by many TV and cable/satellite remotes by inputting a Denon® audio code. Refer to the instructions provided with the TV remote.
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Q5: In order to properly integrate the SLIMstage into my advanced learning remote or home automation system I need to have "discrete codes", how do I find them?
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SLIMstage''s discrete IR codes are available in the DOWNLOADS
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Q6: Can I use SLIMstage overseas?
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SLIMstages utilizes a very high power version of a notebook computer power supply, designed to operate reliably on most any worldwide household voltage: 95-240Vac, 50/60Hz. Just replace the cord connecting the external power module to the wall with one that meets local outlet requirements.
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Q7: How do I control the SLIMstage and my TV from a single remote control?
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SLIMstage, like all electronic appliances, may benefit from surge protectors.
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Q8: Does SLIMstage go into energy-saving standby mode by itself or do I need to switch it?
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Additionally, Slimstage draws 4W or less in MUTE mode, which will occur by pressing MUTE on the remote or if SLIMstage senses no signal for approximately 2 minutes. Slimstage should be turned off by pressing the OFF/standby button on the front panel or remote control...in this mode it draws less than 2W.
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Q9: When switching between normal and Dialog+ modes, sometimes I hear a big difference and sometimes none at all. Why?
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There are a number of possible reasons. When you have the bass level set to maximum, it may overshadow the dialog boost. Obviously, some program material has no vocals in it, so when that's the case, you will hear little or no difference. Also, the frequency range of some dialogue may fall outside (or partially outside) the range of the boost.
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Q1: I received my foxL, connected the power adapter, and immediately played my favorite tune...it didn't as good as all the reviews said it would?!!!
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For best sound quality your new foxL need an initial charge, even when not playing on batteries.
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Q2: Can I use a different power adapter than the one supplied?
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Yes... foxL accepts a connector used on a number of (but not all) Nokia phones. While we can suggest the Nokia ACP-12U, soundmatters naturally can only guarantee the charger we supply will work properly with foxL.
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Q3: foxL can be charged from USB but it takes much longer than wall charging...why?
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Voltage available via a USB port provides close to the minimum required to charge foxL so it will take longer.
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Q4: When I turn-up foxL it sometimes wants to "walk" across the table...why and how do I prevent this?
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FoxL's generates an enormous amount of bass energy for such a tiny enclosure. We utilized rubber shock absorbing material feet to minimize movement, however some of this energy does transfer from the chassis. This allows you to feel the bass - for example if foxL is sitting on a desk you are touching, on a sofa cushion you are sitting on, or against your chest if you've got it hanging as a necklace. With foxLv2, we are now including an anti-slip acoustic mat which when use, greatly reduces foxL's dance moves.
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Q5: Can I use foxL with my iPhone for Bluetooth streaming music wirelessly?
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Yes, Apple's iPhone 3Gs and 3G models with upgraded 3.0 or higher software pair/connect and stream stereo Bluetooth seemlessly. Unfortunately the original iPhone can not be upgraded for Bluetooth stereo.
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Q6: Can I use my foxL with an iPhone or other Bluetooth mobile phone for wireless conference or hands-free calling?
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Yes, with foxLmb or foxLv2 Bluetooth
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Q7: The original iPhone's doesn't work with the audio cable you include with foxL?
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The iPhone's headphone jack is inset in it's chassis, it uses a standard 3.5mm stereo connector but requires a smaller plastic jacket to insert into the phone. These are available from iPhone accessory dealers (or you can just carefully trim down the connector jacket on one end of our audio cable to make it fit. Note that newer versions of the iPhones have changed to a compatible headphone jack.
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| Q8: Can I replace my battery? |
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The BassBattery in foxL is designed to be replaceable by an authorized service center... for the time being, this means sending it back to us at soundmatters.
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Q9: I notice that after listening on battery power, sometimes one channel seems less loud or cuts out?
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The foxL has overload protection that kicks in much quicker on battery than it will on AC (foxL's power is double when plugged into the wall), you're probably playing notes/level that cause clipping, and the protection circuit is activating to keep from damaging the speakers. The foxL is pretty amazing for its size, but it is small which creates some compromises. If you play the same things using AC, you will have more volume and much less chance of the protection circuits kicking in.
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| Q10: The original foxL and foxLv2 looks the same, how can I easily identify which is which? |
The back left model label on both the foxLv2 and foxLv2 Bluetooth has a small 2 in the bottom right corner…the original models do not.
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| Q11: I sometimes hear a high pitched tone when turning on the foxLv2 Bluetooth…what is this? |
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You are hearing the circuitry which searches for a Bluetooth partner, it will last about 30 seconds. You may continue to hear some modest level of background noise when the Bluetooth circuitry is engaged but it is normally in-audible during music playback. If you want to turn off the Bluetooth circuit, press and hold the front button for 5 seconds.After auto-search, if no Bluetooth partner is found the Bluetooth circuitry will automatically turn off after 2.5 minutes.
Q12: I can't seem to connect via Bluetooth to my new iPAD, but connect fine via my iPhone3G?
You can't have two Bluetooth stereo devices (i.e. both your iPAD and iPhone) connected simulaneously to the foxL (or any other speaker/headset). foxL stores your previously pairedBluetooth devices and will try to connect with the last one it was used with wirelessly. If that was your iPhone, you'll need to turn it's bluetooth off before initially pairing and wirelessly connecting with your iPad.
Q13: I can't seem to connect via Bluetooth to PC now that I've upgraded to Windows 7? It worked fine with Vista and XP?
For some reason it appears Microsoft elected not to include the drivers necessary to support Bluetooth A2DP (stereo) on Windows 7. You will need to contact your PC manufacturer and optain a stereo compatible driver.
Q14: Why can't I control the volume of foxL from my iPhone using Bluetooth?
Hooray! Now you can... on your iPhone4 AND on your 3G/3Gs iphones by downloading Apple's new iOS4 software, free from Apple.com.
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| Q1: Do I really need a subwoofer? |
When you are watching movies or listening to your favorite music, do you like to feel like you are really there, almost a part of the action? I'm betting you said yes, and that is why you need a subwoofer. Many movies and musical tracks have considerable content below the capabilities of the MAINstage or typical bookshelf speakers. Unless you listen strictly to choral, vocals-focused music or just watch old TV shows with limited signal quality, you will definitely appreciate the benefits of a good subwoofer.
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| Q2: Can I use SUBstage100 with my home theater receiver/system? |
Yes, like a traditional powered subwoofer, SUBstage100 connects to the sub output of an amplifier or receiver. If your receiver doesn't have a subwoofer output, you can connect to any variable audio output.
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| Q3: Can I use SUBstage to add bass to the internal sound in my TV? |
Yes, but only if your TV has a variable audio output that:
a) has high enough signal level to drive the SUBstage (some have only very low output),
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b) this output is active with all the video sources connected to your TV (some TV audio outputs are only active with composite and S-Video inputs, not component or new digital connections).
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| Q4: Can I use more than one SUBstage at a time? |
Yes, absolutely. Using multiple SUBstages in a room not only increases the ability to handle dynamic passages at higher volumes, but when strategically placed (see Using Multiple SUBstages page) can provide smoother, more even bass coverage throughout the room.
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| Q5: What is the advantage of using more than a single substage? |
See Question 3 above, and the SUBstage users manual. (And see the Using Multiple SUBstages page)
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| Q6: Does it make much difference where I place SUBstage in the room? |
Yes. Both to the way the room looks (it's easy to hide the SUBstage100), and to its sound. While it's typically critical that full-range front speakers are pointed directly at the listener, bass response below about 200Hz isn't all that directional. This gives you lots of leeway as to where to place your subwoofer. However, the sub's location does affect both the output level and quality of the bass relative to your listening position. Again, see the SUBstage user manual for details. That said, the SUBstage is less critical of room placement than many other subwoofers, allowing you the possibility of putting it out of sight, but truly not out of mind!!
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| Q7: The included 5-meter cable is not long enough; are longer/better cables available? |
Any good shielded coaxial cable will work; the SUBstage accepts either RCA or 3.5mm stereo mini-jack connections.
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| Q8: How will the SUBstage improve the sound if I add it to my MAINstage? |
SUBstage will add the deepest bass frequencies, which any small speaker, even the MAINstage, is missing. This can be especially beneficial for both watching "BIG" movies and listening to a wide range of music - including classical, rap, and the blues.
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Q9: Will SUBstage give me as much bass as one of those big-box subwoofers?
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SUBstage sounds cleaner, goes as deep, and in many cases deeper, than most subwoofers in its price range. If there's a trade-off for SUBstage's diminutive size, it's that it won't play as loud as its big-box subs...not a issue for many listening situations. Moving SUBstage to a corner will significantly increase its output. If you need additional volume, add an additional subwoofer.
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| Q10: Will the SUBstage sound muffled if I place it behind my TV/entertainment center? |
Not to the point that you'll probably notice it. Just make sure that all cables are "dressed" out of the way from the front and back moving woofers.
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Q11: If I place it under my couch or chair, will it be muffled?
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Where you have the clearance, SUBstage works great under a couch or chair… in addition to hearing great bass, sitting above the woofer will help you actually feel it.
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| Q12: Will SUBstage work without the grille on? |
Yes. Removing the grille allows to you fit it into some really tight spaces, reducing the height (or depth, depending on how it's oriented) by about an inch.
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| Q13: Do I have to turn it off/on every time I use it? Does it come on automatically? |
The power is always left on, and rests in a low-voltage standby mode…it turns on and off automatically with the signal.
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| Q14: What's the phase control and how do I use it? |
Since your main speakers (or MAINstage) and subwoofer are separate units, they are also probably located at different distances from your ear. Depending on the locations, it is possible that this difference will cause the soundwave of the subwoofer to arrive at your ear a split-second earlier (or later) than the lows from the main speakers and therefore "out of phase" enough to cancel some mid-bass frequencies. The phase adjustment helps to correct this problem.
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| Q15: Where should the crossover be set? |
This control sets how high in frequency the SUBstage plays…basically acting as a mid-bass fine-adjustment control. The goal is a smooth transition of bass between the MAINstageHD or main speakers and the SUBstage.
While listening to something familiar with steady mid-bass signals, slowly adjust the control from about 80Hz up to about 200Hz. Setting the control to low holds the potential for a gap in response, while setting it to high will cause both the SUBstage and main speakers to overlap and play the same frequencies - causing a boomy-sounding peak. The point where you hear smooth, well-balanced bass between the main speakers and sub is the correct position.
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| Q16: Where should I set the EQ switch? |
Setting the switch to ON boosts the SUBstage's output by 3dB at 70Hz...this can be helpful if the sub is not placed near a wall or you want a bit more oomph in the sound... be forewarned that when listening to a loud or overly dynamic passage, you may need to turn the subwoofer level down a bit to prevent overload.
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| Q17: After connecting the SUBstage to my receiver I hear an audible hum. |
What you're hearing is typically called a "ground loop," often caused by inconsistent ground potentials between the plugs that your audio/video system are connected with. First thing to try is changing the outlet that the subwoofer is plugged into...ideally, try plugging it into the same outlet used by your MAINstage or receiver/amplifier.
If that doesn't solve the problem give our tech support folks a call.
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| Q18: Will the SUBstage help my marriage? |
| Clean, deep bass, without a big ugly box messing up the décor ...that's something everyone can agree on... Pssssst: It's not an excuse to forget the anniversary. |
