The KARE Audio CS4 is a 2.4 GHz low-latency wireless audio system designed to enhance TV listening experiences, particularly for individuals with hearing considerations. It utilizes Digital Signal Processing (DSP) to decode and enhance audio, including 5.1 surround sound, and offers various sound modes tailored for different listening preferences. The system comprises a transmitter (RFA1) and a set of ChairSpeakers (CS4S) that are designed to be mounted on a chair's headrest.
Function Description:
The primary function of the KARE Audio CS4 is to provide clear, amplified audio directly to the user, allowing them to enjoy TV at a comfortable volume without disturbing others. The system aims to improve speech intelligibility and overall listening quality through its DSP capabilities. The transmitter receives audio signals from various sources (TV, cable box, satellite box, etc.) and wirelessly transmits them to the ChairSpeakers. The ChairSpeakers, in turn, deliver the audio directly to the user's ears from their position on the chair's headrest. The system supports multiple input types, including optical, coaxial, and analog, offering flexibility in connecting to different audio sources. An optical output is also provided for passthrough to other audio devices like soundbars.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Wireless Technology: 2.4 GHz Low-latency wireless audio.
- Audio Processing: Digital Signal Processing (DSP) with 5.1 sound decoding capabilities.
- Input Ports (Transmitter):
- Microphone Input (for RFA-MP1, sold separately)
- Optical Input
- Coaxial Input
- Analog Input (RCA to 3.5mm, 3.5mm to 3.5mm)
- Output Ports (Transmitter):
- Optical Output (passthrough only, no DSP)
- 5 Volt In (for power)
- Power (Transmitter): Micro-USB (RFA1-PC) for power, can use TV USB port or included wall adapter (RFA1-PS).
- Power (Speakers): Power supply for speakers (CS4S-PC-L). Speakers require 4 hours for a full charge and can be used while charging.
- Speaker Placement: Designed to wrap around a chair's headrest, approximately 18 inches apart, with the volume knob on the left speaker at ear height.
- Pairing: Proximity-based pairing, supports up to 2 devices with one transmitter. Pairing is initiated by pressing the pairing button for 5 seconds on the speaker.
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturer's defects, valid with proof of purchase from KARE Audio or authorized resellers.
Usage Features:
- Multiple Audio Inputs: The transmitter offers versatile connectivity with optical, coaxial, and analog inputs, allowing connection to most TVs, cable boxes, or other audio devices. A microphone input is also available for situations where no other output is present, though it may require careful placement to minimize feedback.
- DSP Modes: The CS4 features several DSP modes, selectable via the "Mode Button" on the transmitter, to optimize the listening experience:
- Direct Sound: Decodes audio and downmixes to 2 channels without applying equalizers, virtualizations, or enhancements.
- Voice Priority SS (Surround Sound): A virtual surround sound technique that enhances voices and creates a spatial sound. Most effective with digital 5.1 or higher audio sources.
- Voiceify AI: An AI-driven voice quality enhancement focusing on intelligibility. It has three settings:
- Narrow Voiceify AI: Focuses on 1kHz to 6kHz range, also enables Voice Priority SS and Calm Commercial Technology.
- Wide Voiceify AI: Applies AI algorithms to voices in the 0.5kHz to 8kHz range, also enables Voice Priority SS and Calm Commercial Technology.
- Full Voiceify AI: Applies AI algorithms to voices across the entire audio range, also enables Voice Priority SS and Calm Commercial Technology.
- Calm Commercials: This feature is integrated into Voiceify AI modes and is designed to reduce sudden volume increases during commercials and action scenes. It uses automatic gain control and dynamic range compression to maintain a consistent audio level, making soft sounds louder and loud sounds softer, thereby improving speech understanding.
- Audio Delay Adjustment: If audio is out of sync, the system allows for delay adjustment (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 ms) by holding the Mode button for 5-10 seconds. The Mode LED blinks a pattern to indicate the current delay setting.
- Status LEDs: The transmitter features a "Mode LED" to indicate the active DSP mode and an "Audio Input Status LED" to show the status of audio input and receiver connection (e.g., Breath Red for Not Connected, Fade Yellow for No Receiver Connected, Solid Green for Receiver Paired). The speakers also have a "Status LED" and "Mode LED" to indicate power, charging, and pairing status.
- Easy Speaker Installation: The ChairSpeakers are designed to be easily installed on a chair's headrest, forming a U-shape, and secured with hook and loop fasteners (VC12). The flexible links conform to the chair's shape.
- Volume Control: The left speaker features a volume knob that also serves as the power switch.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The device should be cleaned with a dry cloth only.
- Power Cable Management: The power cable should be routed away from foot traffic and supported to prevent kinking and abrasion.
- Authorized Service: Users should not attempt to service the product themselves. Any damages should be serviced by an authorized service agent.
- Product Integrity: Do not modify any part of the ChairSpeaker system or use damaged products.
- Accessory Use: Only use ChairSpeaker accessories and attachments with the system.
Safety Notices:
- Indoor Use Only: This product is designed exclusively for indoor use.
- Moisture Avoidance: Do not operate or submerge the product in or near water or in high-moisture areas.
- Heat Avoidance: Do not expose the product to extreme heat conditions from radiators, heat vents, stoves, amplifiers, or other heat-producing items.
- Hearing Protection: Avoid listening at high volume levels for extended periods to prevent potential hearing loss.
- Medical Consultation: KARE, LLC advises consulting a licensed physician (preferably an ear specialist) before use if experiencing visible ear deformity, fluid/drainage from the ear, sudden/fluctuating hearing loss, dizziness, one-sided hearing loss, ear canal blockage, excessive wax buildup, ear pain/discomfort, or ringing in the ears.
- Magnetic Warning: Do not place speakers near pacemakers or defibrillators due to the magnetic field produced by all speakers. Consult a physician if you have concerns.
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