B300
FOREWORD
Dear Customer,
Welcome to the team of B300 users and thank you very much for expressing your confidence in
BEHRINGER products by purchasing this fully active loudspeaker system. It is one of my most pleasant
tasks to write this letter to you, because it is the culmination of many months of hard work delivered by
our engineering team to reach a very ambitious goal: presenting you with an out-of-the-ordinary loudspeaker
system that can be used for any kind of sound reinforcement application. The task of designing our new
B300 certainly meant a great deal of responsibility, which we assumed by focusing on you, the discerning user
and musician. It also meant a lot of work and night shifts to accomplish this goal. But it was fun, too.
Developing a product usually brings a lot of people together, and what a great feeling it is when everybody who
participated in such a project can be proud of what we’ve achieved.
It is our philosophy to share our joy with you, because you are the most important member of the BEHRINGER
family. With your highly competent suggestions for new products you’ve greatly contributed to shaping our
company and making it successful. In return, we guarantee you uncompromising quality (manufactured under
ISO9000 certified management system) as well as excellent technical and audio properties at an extremely
affordable price. All of this will enable you to fully unfold your creativity without being hampered by budget
constraints.
We are often asked how we can make it to produce such high-grade devices at such unbelievably low prices.
The answer is quite simple: it’s you, our customers! Many satisfied customers means large sales volumes
enabling us to get better conditions of purchase for components, etc. Isn’t it only fair to pass this benefit back
to you? Because we know that your success is our success, too!
I would like to thank all people whose help on “Project B300” has made it all possible. Everybody has made
very personal contributions, starting from the designers of the unit via the many staff members in our company
to you, the users of BEHRINGER products.
My friends, it’s been worth the trouble!
Thank you very much,
Uli Behringer
3
B300
B300
Fully Active 2-Way Loudspeaker System with Integrated EQ and Mic Preamp
s 2-way bi-amping for excellent sound reproduction
s Two integrated high-power amps for low and high frequency ranges delivering a total of 300 Watts
s High-efficiency components for extremely high sound pressure levels and ultra-low distortion
s Extensive phase and time correction ensures perfect system alignment
s Innovative Reflex Cooling System for automatic convection-type cooling
s Extremely rugged, low-resonance plastic enclosure
s Special design allows for flying operation
s High-efficiency 1.25" compression driver with titanium dome for excellent high-frequency reproduction
s 15" long-throw woofer with high-power magnet
s Integrated 2-band equalizer and on-board crossover network with integrated limiter ensures speaker
protection
s Balanced audio inputs on XLR and ¼" TRS connectors
s High-quality microphone preamplifier allows for direct connection of dynamic microphones
s Signals can be looped through to drive additional B300’s
s Clearly visible power and overload LED’s on front and rear panel for optimal operational control
s Integrated suspension points and socket for pole or stand mounting
s Manufactured under ISO9000 certified management system
4
B300
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................6
1.1 The concept .................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Before you begin ............................................................................................................................. 6
1.2.1 Mains voltage ........................................................................................................................ 6
1.3 Control elements ............................................................................................................................. 7
2. SETTING UP THE B300.........................................................................................................8
2.1 Tweeter ........................................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 How to avoid feedback .................................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Flying operation of the B300............................................................................................................ 9
3. CONNECTIONS......................................................................................................................9
3.1 Mains connection............................................................................................................................ 9
3.2 Audio connections .......................................................................................................................... 9
3.2.1 Audio connections to a mixing console ................................................................................. 9
3.2.2 Direct audio connection to a microphone .............................................................................. 9
3.2.3 Direct audio connection to a stereo signal source ................................................................. 9
4. LEVEL SETTING...................................................................................................................10
5. APPLICATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 11
5.1 Presentations................................................................................................................................. 11
5.2 P.A. systems ................................................................................................................................. 11
5.3 Monitoring application .................................................................................................................... 11
6. SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................................12
7. WARRANTY ...........................................................................................................................13
CAUTION!
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Please note that extreme output volumes can lead to permanent hearing damage. Turn down
the VOLUME control before you switch on the unit. Be sure to use appropriate volume levels.
5
B300
1. INTRODUCTION
Congratulations! With our new BEHRINGER B300 you purchased an absolutely reliable and versatile active
loudspeaker system. You now own an audio tool that gives you an undistorted and well balanced reproduction
of your program material, be it for presentations, P.A. system or monitoring applications. Despite its built-in
high-power stages, the B300 is compact enough to be handled with ease. It combines the benefits of easy and
fast installation and handling with absolutely pro-level features. And the use of matching components (preamps,
crossovers, power amps, speakers) gives you the freedom to use your B300 in a great variety of applications.
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This manual first describes the terminology used, so that you can fully understand the B300
and its functions. Please read the manual carefully and keep it for future reference.
1.1 The concept
The B300 is equipped with two separate power amps for the woofer and tweeter ranges. With 175 and 50 watts
respectively, these amps have lots of power reserves. The effective operating range of the 15" woofer has been
expanded towards the bottom end by means of a special bass reflex system. The tweeter installed in the B300
ensures an extremely fine signal resolution in the treble range. To optimize its efficiency we upgraded the
tweeter with a specially designed horn. A built-in musical limiter makes sure that both speakers are protected
reliably against overloading.
The philosophy behind BEHRINGER products guarantees a no-compromise circuit design and employs the
best choice of components. Additionally, the B300 is manufactured in compliance with a ISO9000 certified
management system.
1.2 Before you begin
Your B300 was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging is designed to protect the unit from rough
handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its contents for any
signs of physical damage, which may have occurred during transit.
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If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to BEHRINGER, but notify your dealer and the
shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement may not be
granted. Shipping claims must be made by the consignee.
The B300 must be placed on a flat and stable surface or a commercially available speaker stand. Be sure that
there is enough air space around the unit for cooling and please do not place the B300 on high-temperature
devices such as power amps or radiators, etc. to avoid overheating.
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Please note that all units must be grounded properly. For your own safety, you should never
remove any ground connectors from electrical devices or power cords or render them
inoperative.
1.2.1 Mains voltage
Before you connect the B300 to the mains, please make sure that your local voltage matches the
voltage required by the unit! The fuse holder on the female mains connector has 3 triangular markers, with
two of these triangles opposing each other. The B300 is set to the operating voltage printed next to these
markers and can be set to another voltage by turning the fuse holder by 180°. CAUTION: This instruction
does not apply to export models exclusively designed, e.g. for 115 V operation!
Please use the enclosed power cord to connect the unit to the mains. The cord complies with all applicable
safety standards.
6
1. INTRODUCTION
B300
1.3 Control elements
Fig. 1.1: Rear panel control and connecting elements of the B300
1
2
The OVL LED (= overload) lights up as soon as any one of the built-in protections has been activated.
For improved control a second overload LED is installed on the front panel of the speaker cabinet.
The LINE LED lights up when the input sensitivity of the B300 has been set to LINE level with switch
. When you have a mixing console or any other playback device (e.g. CD player) connected,
be sure to set this switch always to LINE level!
3
4
5
6
7
8
The VOLUME control governs the overall volume level of your B300.
The INPUT switch changes the input sensitivity from line to microphone level, and vice versa.
The MIC LED lights up when the input sensitivity of the B300 is set to microphone level.
Use the HI control to adjust the high-frequency range of the built-in equalizer.
Use the LO control to adjust the low-frequency range of the built-in equalizer.
This stereo 1/4" TRS connector is the input for the signal source. You can also connect a microphone
(in this case, switch
This XLR connector is a balanced input for the signal source. You can also connect a microphone
(in this case, switch must be set to “MIC”!)
must be set to “MIC”!)
9
10
The LINK OUTPUT is directly connected to the inputs of the B300 and provides a one-to-one copy of the
input signal, for example, to loop the signal through to the input of another device (e.g. a second B300).
11
12
Use the POWER switch to put the B300 into operation.
FUSE HOLDER/VOLTAGE SELECTOR and MAINS CONNECTOR. Please make sure that your local
voltage matches the voltage indicated on the unit, before you attempt to connect and operate the
B300. Blown fuses may only be replaced by fuses of the same type and rating. Some models allow for
inserting the fuse holder in two different positions, in order to switch over from 230 V to 115 V operation,
and vice versa (see chapter 1.2.1). Please note that for 115 V operation outside Europe, you need a fuse
of a higher rating.
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The serial number of your B300 is printed on the rear panel. Please take the time to fill out
and return the warranty card within 14 days after the date of purchase, so as to be entitled to
benefit from our extended warranty. Or use our online registration option available on the
7
1. INTRODUCTION
B300
2. SETTING UP THE B300
The sound of your B300 largely depends on the room acoustics. Please observe the following hints to get the
most out of your B300.
2.1 Tweeter
High frequencies are the very part of the audio spectrum that ensures a clear sound and speech intelligibility.
Although these frequencies can be located most easily, they are also the first to be blocked acoustically. We
therefore recommend that you set up your speakers on speaker stands, so that the tweeter radiates its signals
slightly above the heads of the audience. This will ensure both an optimum dispersion of the high-frequency
content and a considerably improved speech intelligibility.
2.2 How to avoid feedback
Always place the microphones (viewed from the audience) behind the B300, never in front of it:
Fig. 2.1: Dos and don’ts of speaker positioning
Use professional floor monitors (e.g. BEHRINGER EUROLIVE F1220 or F1520), so that the musicians on
stage can hear themselves. You can also use your B300 as a monitor speaker, because it can also be set up
at an angle (as shown below), which depends on the microphone(s) used. When microphones with a cardioid
polar pattern are used, the B300 must be positioned as shown below (right, center speaker). When you use a
microphone with a hyper-cardioid polar pattern, you can place either one or two B300’s at an angle of 45° on
the microphone axis (as shown by the shaded speaker boxes to the left and right of the microphone).
Fig. 2.2: B300 as a monitor speaker
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2. SETTING UP THE B300
B300
2.3 Flying operation of the B300
A special fixture designed by BEHRINGER allows the flying operation of your B300. Safe and reliable flying of
speakers requires some know-how and expertise. So, please make sure that your B300 will be set up by
qualified personnel only. BEHRINGER assumes no liability for any damage or personal injury resulting from
improper operation of your loudspeakers!
Use the fixture on the top side of the B300 to fly the speaker. On the rear of the cabinet, you will find a second
fixture which—if fastened to the rigging system—allows you to adjust the tilt angle of the speaker cabinet.
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If your B300 shows any signs of damage, it must be repaired using original BEHRINGER parts
before it can be used for flying operation. Make sure that no persons are passing by underneath
the speaker while it is attached to the rigging system. What is more, the cabinet should never
be flown in areas that can be entered by the audience. Please read our safety precautions!
3. CONNECTIONS
3.1 Mains connection
Use the enclosed power cord to connect your B300 to the mains. To avoid ground loops, both speaker and
mixing console should be fed from the same outlet.
3.2 Audio connections
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Always use either the XLR or the 1/4" TRS input of your B300, and adjust the input sensitivity
with switch . Never use both inputs at the same time!
3.2.1 Audio connections to a mixing console
The standard application of the B300 is the direct connection of two speakers to one mixing console. Connect
the inputs of each B300 to one Main Output of your console. The inputs of the B300 are on balanced XLR and
1/4" TRS connectors. To avoid interference and hum, we recommend that you use balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS
cables.
When the two loudspeakers have been connected as described above, turn down their VOLUME controls to
zero, then switch on the speakers using the POWER switch
.
3.2.2 Direct audio connection to a microphone
Owing to the built-in microphone preamp you can also directly connect a dynamic microphone using the XLR
connector of your B300. Set the INPUT switch to “MIC”.
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Set the INPUT switch to “MIC” only when you connect a microphone; otherwise, you will
overload the B300.
Optionally, you can connect a second B300 to the LINK OUTPUT of the first. Once the speakers are connected
to each other, turn down their VOLUME controls to zero, then switch on the speakers.
3.2.3 Direct audio connection to a stereo signal source
Two B300’s can be used to play back a stereo signal source, e.g. a CD player. In this case, each B300 must
be connected to one output of the signal source.
Here, too, you should turn down all VOLUME controls before you switch on the speakers.
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3. CONNECTIONS
B300
Fig. 3.1: Different plug types
4. LEVEL SETTING
Please set the levels as follows:
s Turn the master volume control on your mixing console until it provides a level of 0 dB, or
s Raise the output level of the stereo signal source (if equipped with a volume control), so that there is no
overloading, or
s Speak into the microphone connected.
Now, turn up the VOLUME control of your B300. The overload LED (OVL)
helps you control the level.
The LED lights up as soon as one of the internal protections has been activated due to an overload condition.
For optimum control the B300 has a second overload LED on its front panel. The OVL LED may light up with
signal peaks, but it should never light all the time.
If the amplifiers built into the B300 are muted temporarily, this is an indication that the speaker is being
overloaded. In this case, you should reduce the output level of the mixing console or turn down the VOLUME
control
of your B300.
10
4. LEVEL SETTING
B300
5. APPLICATIONS
5.1 Presentations
Owing to the built-in microphone preamp you only need a B300 and a dynamic microphone to set up a
straightforward sound reinforcement system. Mount the B300 on a speaker stand for optimum presentation
and intelligibility of announcements. If one B300 is not enough, you can of course use a second or even more
loudspeakers. How to wire them is shown in chapter 3.2.2.
Fig. 5.1: Stand-mounted B300 used for presentations
5.2 P.A. systems
P.A. is short for “public address” and includes all applications that involve a larger audience. Such a system
can be composed, for example, of the elements described in chapter 3.2.1. In this case, you would connect
microphones, playback devices, effects, etc. to your mixing console.
To increase the sound pressure level, simply add some speakers on each side of the stereo basis. For
instance, you could use two B300’s on each side and place them next to or on top of each other. The cutouts
in the cabinets guarantee safe stacking.
In this application you would use the LINK OUTPUT to connect one B300 to the XLR input of the second on the
same stereo side.
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With several B300’s connected to each other, their input impedance will be reduced by half
(two B300’s), or to one third (three B300’s), etc. Always use the output impedance of the mixing
console as a basis for your calculations!
5.3 Monitoring application
In contrast to P.A. speakers, stage monitors are used to radiate the sound directly to one specific performer.
When the performer uses a microphone, it is often difficult to set up the monitor speaker, because the distance
between B300 and microphone tends to be very short, which can lead to feedback problems. To avoid this
effect, both microphone and monitor speaker must be placed carefully. Some hints on this can be found in
chapter 2.2.
In a monitoring application, the B300 is provided with the monitor or aux output signal from a mixing console.
If you wish to use further B300’s, you can loop through the audio signal using the LINK OUTPUT on each B300.
Sound and volume of each B300 can be controlled with the help of the controls
(LO).
(VOLUME),
(HI) and
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If you encounter persistent feedback problems, consider using our proven BEHRINGER
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO DSP1124P for line-level signals. For signals with line or
microphone level we recommend our BEHRINGER SHARK DSP110.
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5. APPLICATIONS
B300
6. SPECIFICATIONS
SPEAKER COMPLEMENT
High-performance woofer 15P200A3
Diameter
15" (385 mm)
98 dB @ 1 W / 1 m
3 ohms
Sensitivity
Impedance
Power (RMS / music)
200 W / 400 W
Tweeter compression driver 34P30A8
Diameter
1.25" (34 mm)
Sensitivity (with horn)
Impedance
105 dB @ 1 W / 1 m
8 ohms
Power (RMS)
30 W / 2 kHz @ 12 dB/oct.
Horn (dispersion angle)
100° x 40°
AMPLIFIERS
Woofer range
Power (RMS)
Power (Peak)
175 W @ 3 ohms / 0.1% THD
230 W
Tweeter range
Power (RMS)
Power (Peak)
50 W @ 8 ohms / 0.1% THD
70 W
Limiter
opto-controlled
AUDIO INPUTS
XLR connector
1/4" TRS
Input resistance
Sensitivity (line)
(mic)
(servo-balanced)
(servo-balanced)
20 kohms
-4 dB to +18 dB
-24 dB to -4 dB
AUDIO OUTPUT
XLR connector
SYSTEM DATA
Frequency range
Crossover frequency
Bass reflex alignment
Max. SPL
50 Hz to 18 kHz
2 kHz (12 dB / 24 dB)
6th order
124 dB @ 1 m
POWER SUPPLY
Mains voltage
U.S./Canada
120 V ~, 60 Hz
U.K./Australia
240 V ~, 50 Hz
Europe
230 V ~, 50 Hz
General export model
300 W max.
100 - 120 V ~: T 6,3 A H
200 - 240 V ~: T 3,15 A H
Standard IEC connector
100 - 120 V ~, 200 - 240 V ~, 50 - 60 Hz
Power consumption
Fuse
Mains connection
PHYSICAL
Dimensions (H x W x D)
Weight
approx. 28" (710 mm) x 18" (457 mm) x 16 3/4" (425 mm)
approx. 31 kg
BEHRINGER is constantly striving to maintain the highest professional standards. As a result of these efforts, modifications may be
made from time to time to existing products without further notice. Specifications and appearance may differ from those listed or shown.
12
6. SPECIFICATIONS
B300
3. Free inspections and maintenance/repair work are expressly
7. WARRANTY
excluded from this warranty, in particular, if caused by improper
handling of the product by the user. This also applies to defects
caused by normal wear and tear, in particular, of faders,
potentiometers, keys/buttons and similar parts.
§ 1 WARRANTY CARD/ONLINE REGISTRATION
To be protected by the extended warranty, the buyer must
complete and return the enclosed warranty card within 14 days
of the date of purchase to BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik
GmbH, in accordance with the conditions stipulated in § 3. Failure
to return the card in due time (date as per postmark) will void any
extended warranty claims. Based on the conditions herein, the
buyer may also choose to use the online registration option via
4. Damages/defects caused by the following conditions are not
covered by this warranty:
s improper handling, neglect or failure to operate the unit in
compliance with the instructions given in BEHRINGER user
or service manuals.
s connection or operation of the unit in any way that does not
comply with the technical or safety regulations applicable in
the country where the product is used.
§ 2 WARRANTY
s damages/defects caused by force majeure or any other
1. BEHRINGER (BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH
including all BEHRINGER subsidiaries listed on the enclosed page,
except BEHRINGER Japan) warrants the mechanical and
electronic components of this product to be free of defects in
material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year* from the
original date of purchase, in accordance with the warranty
regulations described below. If the product shows any defects
within the specified warranty period that are not excluded from
this warranty as described under § 3 and 4, BEHRINGER shall, at
its discretion, either replace or repair the product using suitable
new or reconditioned parts. In the case that other parts are used
which constitute an improvement, BEHRINGER may, at its
discretion, charge the customer for the additional cost of these
parts.
condition that is beyond the control of BEHRINGER.
5. Any repair or opening of the unit carried out by unauthorized
personnel (user included) will void the warranty.
6. If an inspection of the product by BEHRINGER shows that the
defect in question is not covered by the warranty, the inspection
costs are payable by the customer.
7. Products which do not meet the terms of this warranty will be
repaired exclusively at the buyer’s expense. BEHRINGER will
inform the buyer of any such circumstance. If the buyer fails to
submit a written repair order within 6 weeks after notification,
BEHRINGER will return the unit C.O.D. with a separate invoice
for freight and packing. Such costs will also be invoiced
separately when the buyer has sent in a written repair order.
2. If the warranty claim proves to be justified, the product will be
returned to the user freight prepaid.
§ 5 WARRANTY TRANSFERABILITY
3. Warranty claims other than those indicated above are expressly
excluded.
This warranty is extended exclusively to the original buyer
(customer of retail dealer) and is not transferable to anyone
who may subsequently purchase this product. No other person
(retail dealer, etc.) shall be entitled to give any warranty promise
on behalf of BEHRINGER.
§ 3 RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER
1. To obtain warranty service, the buyer (or his authorized dealer)
must call BEHRINGER (see enclosed list) during normal business
hours BEFORE returning the product. All inquiries must be
accompanied by a description of the problem. BEHRINGER will
then issue a return authorization number.
§ 6 CLAIM FOR DAMAGES
Failure of BEHRINGER to provide proper warranty service shall
not entitle the buyer to claim (consequential) damages. In no
event shall the liability of BEHRINGER exceed the invoiced value
of the product.
2. Subsequently, the product must be returned in its original
shipping carton, together with the return authorization number to
the address indicated by BEHRINGER.
§ 7 OTHER WARRANTY RIGHTS AND NATIONAL LAW
3. Shipments without freight prepaid will not be accepted.
1. This warranty does not exclude or limit the buyer’s statutory
rights provided by national law, in particular, any such rights
against the seller that arise from a legally effective purchase
contract.
§ 4 WARRANTY REGULATIONS
1. Warranty services will be furnished only if the product is
accompanied by a copy of the original retail dealer’s invoice.
Any product deemed eligible for repair or replacement by
BEHRINGER under the terms of this warranty will be repaired or
replaced within 30 days of receipt of the product at BEHRINGER.
2. The warranty regulations mentioned herein are applicable
unless they constitute an infringement of national warranty law.
* Customers in the European Union please contact BEHRINGER
Germany Support for further details.
2. If the product needs to be modified or adapted in order to
comply with applicable technical or safety standards on a natio-
nal or local level, in any country which is not the country for
which the product was originally developed and manufactured,
this modification/adaptation shall not be considered a defect in
materials or workmanship. The warranty does not cover any
such modification/adaptation, irrespective of whether it was
carried out properly or not. Under the terms of this warranty,
BEHRINGER shall not be held responsible for any cost resulting
from such a modification/adaptation.
The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording of any kind, for any
purpose, without the express written permission of BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH.
BEHRINGER, EUROLIVE, FEEDBACK DESTROYER and SHARK are registered trademarks.ALLRIGHTS RESERVED.
© 2002 BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH.
BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH, Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Str. 36-38, 47877 Willich-Münchheide II, Germany
Tel. +49 (0) 21 54 / 92 06-0, Fax +49 (0) 21 54 / 92 06-30
7. WARRANTY
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