SmartAmp is not passing audio
SmartAmps are Energy Star compliant and will go into standby (a.k.a sleep) when not in use to minimise energy consumption. The amplifier will wake up from standby when an input signal of -57dBu or above is present to any input channel.
If signal of above -57dBu is applied to the SmartAmp and it still does not wake from sleep mode, please attempt to update the firmware to the latest version using the SmartAmp Configuration Tool from our website.
SmartAmp Tool Showing Wrong Model Version
SmartAmp Configuration Tool 3.00 automatically detects the SmartAmp model when connected.
If the Configuration tool displays a different model type to the SmartAmp you have connected, then the processor firmware has been incorrectly programmed in a previous legacy version of the tool.
To rectify this, you will need to use the legacy updater tool to re-program the correct SmartAmp personality. Please note that SmartAmp legacy updater tools are only available for Windows OS.
- Download the legacy updater tool and connect your SmartAmp via the maintenance USB port.
- Open the legacy updater tool and select the correct Main Processor version by clicking 'Browse'.
- Click 'Program' to begin the update.
Once the correct SmartAmp personality version is programmed, the legacy version can be closed and uninstalled from your PC. Reopen the latest Configuration Tool version and confirm that models match. You can now proceed with the update to the latest version.
DSP Dip Switches
All SmartAmp models feature DSP settings for a range of Optimal Audio loudspeakers controlled via combinations of the eight dip switches on the SmartAmp rear panel. A guide to these settings can be found here > SmartAmp - Dip Switch Guide.
If you are using DSP settings from WebApp via the line outputs of a Zone controller, set dip switches 1-5 in the down (off) position.
To use custom configuration via the Configuration Tool, all DIP switches must be set to the down (off) position.
Cannot Connect to Configuration Tool
The most common cause of connection errors is a faulty USB-Micro cable. Some USB-Micro cables are power only and do not allow data transfer or syncing. Unfortunately, manufacturers do not denote sync/no-sync on the cable itself. Although power-only cables are often thinner than sync cables.
SmartAmp Updater For MacOS
SmartAmp Configuration Tool 3.00 is now available for Mac and Windows users. Please download the latest version from our website for your preferred operating system.
Should you require to use the legacy version for personality re-programming mentioned above, it is only available for Windows.
Mains Disconnected but SmartAmp Still On
SmartAmp's power LED can remain on without mains power if the maintenance USB cable is still connected. Do not attempt to use the SmartAmp on bus power alone. Always use mains power.
To fully power SmartAmp down, ensure both the mains and USB-Micro cables are disconnected.
Fans Stalling/Clicking During Update
If signal is being applied to the SmartAmp inputs during the update from the legacy version to the latest version, it is possible for the SmartAmp to get stuck in a power loop which is commonly displayed in the form of the fans stalling and relays clicking repeatedly.
To recover the SmartAmp, remove any input signal being supplied to the SmartAmp. Either by physically removing the input connectors or turning off the audio source. Once the signal source is removed, the update will continue as expected.
'Connected to Bootloader' message
If the update fails, SmartAmp Configuration Tool can resolve to a 'Connected to Bootloader' message. To recover the SmartAmp, simply quit the Configuration Tool and restart it.
Upon restarting, you will be prompted to select your SmartAmp model. Select the model you are updating and the Configuration Tool will automatically run the recovery update. Once complete, you will be successfully connected.