The PowerBass Xtreme Amplified Bluetooth Soundbar is a full-range speaker system designed for high-fidelity sound in various environments, particularly suitable for powersports and outdoor applications. This soundbar integrates Bluetooth connectivity and a robust design to deliver a powerful audio experience.
Function Description
The primary function of the PowerBass Xtreme Soundbar is to provide amplified audio playback from Bluetooth-enabled devices or wired auxiliary inputs. It acts as a self-contained audio system, incorporating speakers, tweeters, and an amplifier within a single, durable housing. The soundbar is engineered to produce a wide frequency range, from deep bass to crisp highs, ensuring a comprehensive sonic experience.
It features Square Marine Grade Poly Cone Woofers for low-end bass response, Full Range Marine Grade Poly Cone Speakers arranged for high-volume output, and SD Mylar Tweeters to extend the sonic high frequencies. A Precision Tuned DSP (Digital Signal Processor) is integrated to optimize frequency range and minimize distortion, contributing to clear and accurate sound reproduction.
The soundbar supports both wireless Bluetooth audio streaming and wired AUX input, offering flexibility in how users connect their music sources. It also includes a 2-Volt Line Output, allowing for expansion by connecting a second soundbar or an external amplifier, such as a subwoofer or full-range amplifier. This output is variable and controlled by the main soundbar's pre-amp, providing seamless integration with additional audio components.
Usage Features
The PowerBass Xtreme Soundbar is designed for ease of use and versatility.
- Connectivity: Users can connect their devices wirelessly via Bluetooth 4.0, which offers a reliable operating range of over 32 feet. The pairing process is straightforward: power on the soundbar, press the Bluetooth button to enter pairing mode, and then select the XL-(model) Soundbar from the device's Bluetooth settings. An audible beep confirms successful pairing. For wired connections, an AUX RCA Input is available, accepting audio signals from 250mV to 3 volts.
- Control: The soundbar features an intuitive controller layout with dedicated buttons for power/mute/pause, Bluetooth/AUX mode switching, track back, track forward, volume down, and volume up.
- Power/Mute/Pause Button: A long press (3-5 seconds) turns the unit on or off. A momentary press pauses/un-pauses music in Bluetooth mode or mutes/un-mutes audio in AUX mode.
- Bluetooth/AUX Mode Button: Momentarily pressing this button switches between Bluetooth and auxiliary input. If no Bluetooth device is currently paired, pressing this button initiates pairing mode.
- Track Back/Forward Buttons: These buttons allow users to skip to the previous or next song, respectively, but only function in Bluetooth mode. In AUX mode, track control must be managed from the connected device (e.g., radio, phone, MP3 player).
- Volume Up/Down Buttons: These buttons adjust the soundbar's volume. Repeated presses increase or decrease the volume until the desired level is reached. An audible beep indicates when maximum volume is achieved.
- Mounting Options: The soundbar comes with Universal L Mount Brackets for easy installation in various applications. These brackets have a 0.25-inch diameter hole for mounting hardware (not supplied for vehicle attachment). Optional clamp systems (XL-SBCLAMP2, XL-SBSCLAMP, XL-SBTCLAMP, sold separately) are available for mounting to square or round tubes, providing additional flexibility for installation on roll bars or other vehicle structures.
- Wireless Remote Control: An optional wireless remote (XL-SBCONRF, sold separately) provides convenient control over the soundbar. Pairing the remote involves powering up the soundbar, pressing and holding the "Track Forward" button until the lights blink, and then pressing any button on the remote. A fast blink followed by a solid light on the soundbar confirms successful pairing.
- Durability: The soundbar is housed in a Heavy Duty Extruded Aluminum Water Tight Housing, which serves as an effective heatsink for cooling and ensures a waterproof sealed environment. This design makes it suitable for harsh outdoor conditions, including exposure to splashes and varying weather.
Maintenance Features
The PowerBass Xtreme Soundbar is designed for reliability and minimal maintenance, but certain considerations are important for long-term performance.
- Robust Construction: The use of marine-grade components, including poly cone woofers and speakers, and a waterproof aluminum housing, contributes to the soundbar's resistance to corrosion and environmental damage.
- Installation Guidelines: Proper installation is crucial for the soundbar's longevity and performance. The manual emphasizes using high-quality connectors to prevent corrosion and signal loss, especially in outdoor environments. It also advises against running wires underneath the vehicle or exposed on a boat deck, recommending covered routing for protection.
- Power Wiring: The soundbar requires a direct connection to a 12V battery for its Red Fuse Wire (main power) and Black Ground Wire (ground connection) to ensure optimal current and voltage flow. The Blue Accessory Wire connects to a 12-volt switched power source (e.g., ignition) to turn the soundbar on and off.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as no power, no sound, distorted output, sound cuts on/off, and inability to pair Bluetooth. This guide helps users diagnose and resolve problems, often by checking wiring connections, input signals, and device pairing status.
- Warranty: PowerBass offers a limited warranty, covering defects in material and workmanship for one year, extended to two years for parts and labor if installed by an Authorized PowerBass Xtreme Dealer. This warranty underscores the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality and provides support for potential issues. However, the warranty does not cover damage from abuse, improper installation, or unauthorized repairs, reinforcing the importance of following installation guidelines and seeking professional assistance when needed.
- Cleaning: While not explicitly detailed, the waterproof design suggests that the soundbar can withstand cleaning with water, though specific instructions for cleaning agents or methods are not provided. Given its outdoor application, periodic cleaning to remove dirt and debris would be beneficial to maintain its appearance and prevent accumulation that could affect performance.
Overall, the PowerBass Xtreme Amplified Bluetooth Soundbar is a durable, high-performance audio solution designed for demanding environments, offering flexible connectivity and user-friendly controls with a focus on long-term reliability.