Sam Ash Music AL2 Wireless Microphone Transmitter User Manual
Sam Ash Music Corporation Wireless Microphone Transmitter Users Manual
Users Manual
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Quick Start. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Guided Tour - AR2 Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Guided Tour - AL2 Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
AR2DT Dock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
AR2 Camera Mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Specications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
AirLine Micro Channel Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
v1.1 ©2010 Samson Technologies Corp.
Table of Contents
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 1
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Samson AirLine Micro Camera wireless system, a breakthrough in wireless microphone technology. It is
perfectly suited for commercial videographers, corporate, as well as broadcast video professionals. The AirLine Micro utilizes the latest
in miniaturized electronic components, as well as lithium-ion batteries, resulting in Samson’s smallest wireless system, while preserving
the high-quality audio you expect from a Samson wireless device. The AirLine Micro system ensures clear, interruption-free perfor-
mance by combining tone-key with auto-mute. This configuration allows only the transmitter’s audio to pass through the receiver, and
mutes the output if there is any interference.
The AirLine Micro Camera system is designed so that it can easily be integrated into your current video system, and comes with all of
the necessary components to execute your video shoot or live broadcast. The system is comprised of one AL2 belt pack transmitter
and one AR2 micro receiver, which are each housed in a durable aluminum chassis. The AR2 micro receiver features an 1/8” unbal-
anced audio output, with microphone or line level output, USB DC-input, and RF and Battery LED indicators. The system also includes
a mounting adaptor that fits into the standard hot shoe, enabling it to be attached to any video camera. The system also includes one
3.5mm-3.5mm and one 3.5mm-XLR audio cable to connect to the audio input of your camera. Also included is an LM10 omni direc-
tional lavaliere microphone that allows the performer the freedom to move around while maintaining outstanding audio clarity.
The AirLine Micro system utilizes fully rechargeable lithium-ion battery technology. The included AL2 transmitter and AR2 receiver
feature internal rechargeable batteries, each allowing 10 hours of battery operation. Both the AL2 and AR2 can be recharged with the
included AC adaptor and USB Y-cable, or with the included AR2DT docking station, or by USB bus power when connected to any USB
host-equipped device. The AR2 can alternatively be powered by the included AC adaptor, for continuous operation.
AirLine Micro Camera System2
Introduction
In this manual, you’ll find a detailed description of the features of your AirLine Micro Camera system, as well as a guided tour of its
components, step-by-step instructions for setting up and using your system, and full specifications. If your AirLine Micro Camera system
was purchased in the United States, you’ll also find a warranty card enclosed. Don’t forget to fill it out and mail it! This will enable you
to receive online technical support, and will allow us to send you updated information about this and other Samson products. If your
Airline Micro Camera system was purchased outside of the U.S., contact your local distributor for warranty details. Also, be sure to visit
our website (http://www.samsontech.com) for information about our full product line.
Special Note for U.S. Purchasers: Should your Airline Micro Camera system ever require servicing, a Return Authorization (RA) number
is necessary. Without this number, the unit will not be accepted for return. If your AirLine Micro Camera system was purchased in the
United States, please call Samson at 1-800-372-6766 for an RA number prior to shipping your system. If possible, return the unit in its
original carton and packing materials. If your AirLine Micro Camera system was purchased outside of the U.S., contact your local dis-
tributor for service information.
Battery Notice: Lithium-ion batteries are low-maintenance, and provide increased power capabilities in a lighter package, compared
with NiCad (nickel-cadmium) batteries. All lithium-ion batteries have a finite number of times that they can be recharged, called a
charge cycle. A charge cycle means using all of a battery’s power, but does not necessarily mean a single charge. A lithium-ion battery
can be recharged when needed, and does not need to be fully discharged (contrasted with a NiCad battery) before charging again.
Repetitive full discharges of the battery should be avoided, as lithium-ion batteries need to be utilized continuously for maximum life
and performance. If you are not using your wireless system often, be sure to complete a full charge cycle at least every three months. If
you need to replace your AL2 or AR2 battery, please contact Samson, or your local distributor.
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 3
System Components
Universal AC Adaptor1/8” to 1/8” Audio Cable1/8” to XLR Audio Cable USB Y-Power Cable
Carrying CaseOwners Manual
Note: Universal AC Adaptor works from 100V - 240V. Plug
adaptors snap into place and can be changed by sliding
the button below the plug. Each system is shipped with
one plug adaptor specific to the country where the system
is purchased. Addional adaptors can be ordered through
Samson.
AL2 Transmitter AR2 Receiver AR2DT Dock AR2 Camera Mount LM10 Lavaliere Microphone 3 Windscreens
AirLine Micro Camera System4
Quick Start
Please follow these basic procedures for setting up and using your AirLine Micro:
1. For your AirLine Micro system to work properly, both the receiver and transmitter must be on the same channel. Remove all packing
materials (save them in case your unit needs to be serviced in the future) and check to make sure that the supplied receiver and
transmitter are on the same channel.
Note: The channel number is laser-engraved on the back of the AR2 and AL2 chassis. If these channels do not match, please contact Sam-
son Technical Support at 1-800-372-6766. If your unit was purchased outside of the U.S., please contact your local distributor.
2. Before using your AirLine Micro system you should fully recharge the transmitter and receiver batteries. Plug the AC adaptor into a
power socket. Connect the USB Y-Cable into the USB socket on the AC adaptor. Plug the two mini-USB connectors into the USB ports
on the AL2 transmitter and AR2 receiver. When the transmitter and receiver are completely charged, the BLUE LED indicator will turn
off.
3. Remove the USB cable and continue with setup.
4. Physically place the receiver where it will be used (if desired, the AR2 receiver model can be used with the included AR2DT dock) and
fully extend the antennas.
5. Turn your audio system off and connect the receiver’s 1/8” unbalanced output jack to the microphone or line level audio input of
your video camera, amplifier or mixer. Set the AR2 Mic/Line Level switch to match the input.
6. Turn on the receiver using the Power Switch. When on, the Status Indicator will be steady YELLOW.
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 5
Quick Start
7. Turn on your AL2 transmitter by pressing and holding the Multi-Function Switch, until the Status Indicator LED flashes GREEN;
then release it. The AL2 Status Indicator will now light steady GREEN. The AR2 receiver Status Indicator will change from YELLOW to
GREEN, indicating that it is receiving a valid RF signal.
8. Position the LM10 lavaliere microphone onto your lapel, as close to your mouth as possible but off
to one side (to prevent a nasal sound) and be sure the mic is unobstructed by clothing. Bear in mind
that omnidirectional microphones (mics which pick up signal from all directions) are more prone
to feedback problems than unidirectional (cardioid or hypercardioid) microphones. In general, you
can avoid feedback by taking care not to use any microphone directly in front of a PA speaker (if this
is unavoidable, try using an equalizer to attenuate high- or mid-range frequencies which cause the
feedback “squealing”).
9. Turn on your connected amplifier and/or mixer, but keep its volume all the way down. Make sure the
AL2 transmitter is not muted.
Note: If the AL2 is muted, the AL2 Status Indicator LED will flash GREEN and the AR2 Status Indicator will flash GREEN. To un-mute the AL2,
press the Multi-Function Switch and the Status Indicator will light steady GREEN.
10. Speak or sing into the microphone at a normal performance level while slowly raising the audio input control of your amplifier or
mixer, until the desired volume is reached.
11. If you hear distortion at the desired volume level, determine if the Status Indicator LED on the receiver is lighting RED. If the Status
Indicator is RED, simply move the microphone further from your mouth. If the Status Indicator is lighting GREEN, make sure that the
gain structure of your audio system is set correctly (consult the owners manual of your mixer and/or amplifier for details).
AirLine Micro Camera System6
Quick Start
If you hear a weak, noisy signal at the desired volume level, make sure that the gain structure of your audio system and the Audio
Output Level switch are set correctly. If the Audio Output Level switch is set correctly and the signal coming from the receiver is still
weak and/or noisy, simply position the microphone closer to your mouth.
If you feel that the level of the microphone needs further adjustment, press and hold the AL2 Multi-Function Switch while the unit is
powered on until the Status Indicator turns off; then release the switch. Press and hold the Multi-Function Switch again for five sec-
onds. The AL2 Status Indicator will first flash GREEN, then flash YELLOW, to show that you are in Volume Adjustment mode. Press and
release the Multi-Function Switch once, and the microphone volume will increase one level. To continue to adjust the microphone
volume, continue to press and release the Multi-Function Switch. There are five levels. With each increasing level, the Status Indica-
tor will flash faster. After level five is reached, the transmitter will cycle back down through the levels each time the Multi-Function
Switch is pressed. As the levels decrease, the Status Indicator flashes slower. When the desired level is reached, release the Multi-
Function Switch. The AL2 will return to normal operation after 10 seconds, and the Status Indicator will light steady GREEN.
12. Do a walk-around through the intended area of coverage while observing the AR2’s Status Indicator; it should stay steadily GREEN,
indicating sufficient RF reception in all areas of intended use. If the AR2’s Status Indicator lights YELLOW, it signals RF dropout (or the
receiver may be muted). Reposition the device (or its antennas) as necessary. If extended range coverage is required, another AR2
true diversity receiver (set to the same channel as the transmitter) should be used.
13. If you have followed all of the above the steps and are still experiencing difficulties with your system, please call Samson Technical
Support (1-800-372-6766) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. EST. If you purchased your system outside of the U.S., please contact your
local distributor.
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 7
Guided Tour - AR2 Receiver
1. Antennas - The retractable antennas allow full rotation for
optimum placement. In normal operation, both antennas
should be fully extended and placed in a vertical position,
as shown at right.
2. POWER Switch - Use this to turn the AR2 power on and off.
3. Status Indicator - This three-color LED acts as a multi-function meter, indicat-
ing power, transmitter tone-key status, transmitter mute, and transmitter peak.
YELLOW AR2 Powered On, No Tone-Key Present
GREEN AL2 On, Normal Operation
Flashing GREEN AL2 Audio Muted
RED Transmitter Input Overloaded
AirLine Micro Camera System8
4. Low Battery Indicator - This BLUE LED displays the status of the battery. The Low Battery Indicator will flash BLUE when the unit
is on, and the battery is low. When recharging the AR2, the LED will light steady BLUE until the battery is fully charged, then the
indicator will turn off.
5. Audio Output Level Switch - Sets the audio output level of the unbalanced output to microphone or line level.
6. USB DC Power Input - Connect the supplied universal adaptor to recharge the internal lithium-ion battery. The USB DC input will
also accept USB bus power from a computer USB port, or any 5-volt DC adaptor (such as a car or cell phone charger) that has a USB
output.
NOTE: The Universal AC Adaptor will charge the AL2 & AR2 faster than a computer USB port.
NOTE: The USB port can only be used for charging purposes and cannot be used for data exchange between a PC and the AR2 receiver.
7. 1/8” Unbalanced Output - Use this unbalanced (600 Ohm min.) 1/8” (3.5 mm) mini-phone jack when connecting to audio equip-
ment.
Guided Tour - AR2 Receiver
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 9
Guided Tour - AL2 Transmitter
1. Input Connector - Connect an input device. The AL2 is supplied with an LM10
lavaliere microphone connected via a locking 3.5mm mini-phone jack.
2. Multi-Function Switch - Press and hold this switch to turn the unit on or off.
Press and release to mute or unmute the transmitter. To adjust the transmitter
volume, while the AL2 is powered on, press and hold until the power turns off,
release the switch, then press and hold the switch for 5 seconds and the Status
Indicator will first flash GREEN, then YELLOW.
Function Activation Hold Time LED Status
Power ON/OFF Press and Hold > 1 sec GREEN
Mute ON/OFF Press 0.2 – 1 sec Flashing GREEN
Volume Adjust Press and Hold > 5 sec Flashing YELLOW
Increase Gain Press (Total 5 steps) > 0.2 sec Flashing YELLOW
Decrease Gain Press (Total 5 steps) > 0.2 sec Flashing YELLOW
Set Level Don’t Press 10 sec GREEN
AirLine Micro Camera System10
Guided Tour - AL2 Transmitter
3. Status Indicator - This LED displays the operation mode of the transmitter.
4. Antenna - This permanently attached transmitter antenna should be fully
extended during normal use (do not bend).
5. Low Battery Indicator - This BLUE LED displays the status of the battery. The
Low Battery Indicator will flash BLUE when the unit is on, and the battery is
low. When recharging the AL2, the LED will light steady BLUE until the battery
is fully charged. Then the indicator will turn off.
GREEN Normal Operation
Flashing GREEN Mute
Flashing YELLOW Volume Adjustment Mode
Fastest Flashing YELLOW Maximum Level
Slowest Flashing YELLOW Minimum Level
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 11
Guided Tour - AL2 Transmitter
6. Attenuation Switch - The AL2 transmitter features a signal attenuation switch
that is used to select the input level of “0dB” or “-15dB.” This attenuation switch
has been factory preset to “0dB,” providing the optimum level for most situ-
ations. If you see the input of microphone repeatedly clipping the output,
first try to adjust the gain control as described in step 2, above. If you cannot
attenuate the signal low enough using the gain control, choose the “-15dB”
level setting.
7. USB DC Power Input - Connect the supplied universal adaptor to recharge the
internal lithium-ion battery. The USB DC input will also accept USB bus power
from a computer USB port, or any 5-volt DC adaptor (such as a car or cell phone
charger) that has a USB output.
NOTE: The Universal AC Adaptor will charge the AL2 & AR2 faster than a computer
USB port.
NOTE: The USB port can only be used for charging purposes and cannot be used
for data exchange between a PC and the AL2 transmitter.
AirLine Micro Camera System12
AR2DT Dock
For added convenience and easy setup, we have included the AR2DT
dock. To use the dock, please follow these steps:
1. Slide the AR2 receiver until fully seated into the section
of the AR2DT with the USB and 3.5mm connectors.
2. The AL2 will t into the side with the cutout. Push the
AL2 into the dock until it is completely inserted. Make
sure that the USB connector on the dock and USB
power inlet on the transmitter are facing the same
direction (as shown on right).
3. Attach the included audio cable to the audio output on
the back panel of the AR2DT to connect the AR2 to a
mixer or power amplier.
4. To recharge the AR2 receiver and AL2 transmitter,
connect the USB Y-cable to the USB DC input on the
back panel of the AR2DT and connect the cable to the
included Universal AC adaptor.
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 13
Follow these steps to mount the AR2 onto a camera:
1. Slide the AR2 Camera Mount into the camera’s
standard hot shoe mounting point, and lock the
Camera Mount in place by tightening the knurled
washer.
2. Insert the AR2 receiver into the Camera Mount so
that the antennas are facing the front of the mount.
Fully extend the two antennas.
3. Connect the AR2 audio output to the camera’s
audio input using the supplied 3.5mm or XLR cable.
Note: The AR2 Camera Mount does not provide power
for the AR2 receiver.
Note: If your camera does not have a standard hot
shoe mounting point, an additional adapter may be
necessary. Please refer to your camera’s user guide.
AR2 Camera Mount
AirLine Micro Camera System14
System
Operating Frequency
N Band 642.375 MHz - 645.750 MHz
E Band 863.125 MHz - 864.875 MHz
Number of Channels
N Band 6
E Band 4
Working Range 100 m (300 ft.) line of sight
Audio Frequency Response 50 Hz - 15 kHz
T.H.D. (Overall) < 1% (@AF 1 kHz, RF 46 dBu)
Operating Temperature –18°C (0°F) to +50°C (+122°F)
Storage Temperature –5°C (23°F) to +35°C (+95°F)
AR2 Receiver
Audio Output Connector 1/8” Unbalanced
Audio Output Level (Typical) -30 dBv (Mic), -10 dBv (Line)
Audio Output Impedance Unbalanced 600 Ohms
AF Frequency Response 50 Hz - 15 kHz
Antennas Two 1/4 Wavelength Rod
Selectivity ±150 kHz (AF Out Ratio -60 dB)
S/N Ratio (Overall) 90 dB (w/IHF-A Filter)
Specifications
Sensitivity 18 dBu (@ THD 2%)
Power Requirements Internal lithium ion rechargeable
battery or AC adaptor
Battery Life ~10 hours
Indicators Power On, Tone Key, Transmitter
Mute, Transmitter Peak, Battery
Low, Recharging
Dimensions 43 mm L x 13 mm W x 60 mm H
1.7” L x 0.51” W x 2.4” H
Weight 42 grams (1.5 oz.)
AL2 Transmitter
Audio Input Level -110 dBv ~ 0 dBv
Volume Adjustment Steps 5
RF Transmitter Output 10 mW ERP
Power Requirements Internal lithium ion rechargeable
battery
Battery Life ~10 hours
Dimensions 43 mm L x 13 mm W x 60 mm H
1.7” L x 0.51” W x 2.4” H
Weight 42 grams (1.5 oz.)
AirLine Micro Camera System
Owners Manual 15
AirLine Micro Channel Plan
Channel Frequencies Channel Frequencies
N1 642.375 MHz E1 863.125 MHz
N2 642.875 MHz E2 863.625 MHz
N3 644.125 MHz E3 864.500 MHz
N4 644.750 MHz E4 864.875 MHz
N5 645.500 MHz
N6 645.750 MHz
Airline Micro N-Channel wireless frequencies are within UHF TV frequency bands. Only certain channels may be available in particular
areas. The six N-Channels have been selected for optimum multi-channel compatibility and may be used simultaneously, subject to
frequency availability in your geographic area.
Airline Micro E-Channel wireless frequencies may not be used in North America.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful
interference.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry & Science Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION! Electrical shock can result from removal of the
receiver cover. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
No user-serviceable parts inside. Do not expose to rain or
moisture.
The circuits inside the receiver and transmitter have been
precisely adjusted for optimum performance and compliance
with federal regulations. Do not attempt to open the receiver
or transmitter. To do so will void the warranty, and may cause
improper operation.
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a
separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that
requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private household in the 25 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used
electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar
new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and
recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
FCC Consumer Alert for Wireless Microphones
Most users do not need a license to operate this wireless microphone system. Nevertheless, operating this microphone system
without a license is subject to certain restrictions: the system may not cause harmful interference; it must operate at a low power
level (not in excess of 50 milliwatts); and it has no protection from interference received from any other device. Purchasers should
also be aware that the FCC is currently evaluating use of wireless microphone systems, and these rules are subject to change. For
more information, call the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC (TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC) or visit the FCC’s wireless microphone website at www.
fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones.
Samson Technologies Corp.
45 Gilpin Avenue
Hauppauge, New York 11788-8816
Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON
Fax: 631-784-2201
www.samsontech.com
AirLine Micro Function & Indicator Guide
AL2 Belt Pack Transmitter
Status Belt Pack Indicator Light
Powering On Status Indicator: Steady GREEN.
Mute Status Indicator: The indicator ashes GREEN.
Volume Adjust Status Indicator: The indicator ashes YELLOW. The indicator ashes faster as the volume is
increased.
The indicator ashes slower as the volume is decreased.
Low Battery Low Battery Indicator: The indicator ashes BLUE.
Charging Battery Low Battery Indicator: Steady BLUE. Indicator turns o when the battery is fully charged.
AR2 Receiver
Status Receiver Indicator Lights
Powering On Status Indicator: Steady YELLOW.
(AR2: ON, AL2: OFF)
Powering On Status Indicator: Steady GREEN.
(AR2: ON, AL2: ON)
AL2 Mute Status Indicator: The indicator ashes GREEN.
Peak Status Indicator: The indicator ashes RED.
Low Battery Low Battery Indicator: The indicator ashes BLUE.
Charging Battery Low Battery Indicator: Steady BLUE. Indicator turns o when the battery is fully charged.