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Jensen Transformers ISO-MAX SS-2SX Stereo Speaker to Line Audio Converter
Extended low-frequency response for extremely high-performance sub-woofers, Terminal strip, SpeakON inputs, XLR outputs
Jensen Transformers SS-2SX ISO-MAX Stereo Speaker to Line Audio converter
Jensen Transformers SS-2SX Stereo Speaker to Line Audio converter is a unique product that provides an elegant way to convert speaker-level audio to line-level audio. This model is intended for low-frequency applications. It features SpeakON inputs and XLR outputs, as well as a terminal strip for both inputs and outputs.
Handy DIP switches make it easy to select input power ranges from 25 watts to 750 watts, making the SS-2SX compatible with a wide range of audio amplifiers. Select speaker drive voltages of 14, 25, 44, or 77 Volts RMS. These voltages correspond to 24, 75, 240, or 750 Watts, respectively, into 8 Ω loads or rated at 48, 150, 480, or 1,500 Watts respectively into 4 Ω loads. Input ranges also include 25 and 70 Volt lines, as used in commercial sound systems.
Output signals will reach 6.9 Vrms (+19 dBu), a level that represents 15 dB of "headroom" in professional audio systems where the nominal or "reference level" signal is standardized at +4 dBu or 1.23 Vrms.
Since the speaker inputs are ungrounded, they are especially useful with power amplifiers where both outputs are actively driven and cannot be grounded (these are often referred to as "bridge-mode" or "floating" outputs). The SS-2SX presents only a trivial additional load to the driving power amplifiers - less than 0.08, 0.4, 1.5, and 5.4 Watts respectively in the four input ranges. In addition, all models provide inherent low-pass filtering to remove ultra-sonic switching artifacts from the outputs of "digital" or "class D" power amplifiers, which can cause subtle distortions in downstream amplifiers [Deane Jensen and Gary Sokolich, "Spectral Contamination Measurement", AES 85th Convention Preprint 2725,1988].
All of this makes the SS-2SX an ideal solution for deriving sub-woofer inputs in pure stereo audio systems that do not normally provide subwoofer outputs. It is a completely passive audiophile-grade device, so there is no chance of raising the noise floor of your audio system, as might be the case with an active device. The SS-2SX is housed in a sturdy metal enclosure, measuring 7.0" W x 3.5" D x 1.6" H., including the flanges. The flanges have mounting holes, which are handy for permanent installations.
At this point we typically like to remind customers not to confuse the SS-2SX with similar (but inferior) products from other manufacturers, but in this case, we know of no similar products, so even more than usual, the SS-2SX really is in a class of its own. The SS-2SX is backed by the manufacturer's comprehensive one-year warranty, and has a remarkable 20-year warranty on the transformer device itself.
Full-range and/or RCA output configurations are available as well - please check out this search for information on the other members of the ISO-MAX family.
Jensen Transformers' Description
ISO-MAX® Model SS-2SX
2-Chan [stereo] speaker to line level converter
The Iso•Max SS-2SX is a two channel speaker to line level converter that lets you convert the high power signal from an audio amplifier output to a +4 dB (nominal) balanced line level for further processing or signal distribution.
- Converts any speaker or amplifier output to line level
- Delivers exceptionally low distortion down to 20 Hz
- Ruler flat frequency response from 5 Hz to 20 kHz
- Plug and play easy to use, no power required
The design begins with a rugged flanged enclosure that comes standard with gold plated XLRs and a removable screw-down barrier strip for easy installation in NEMA enclosures and 19” racks. Plug and play easy to use, this passive interface does not require any power to work. Inside are two Jensen high performance transformers that isolate the output to eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops while they eliminate issues with ‘bridged’ and ‘class D‘ power amp outputs. A series of input pad DIP switches let you select the range to suit various power amps for at 25 W, 75 W, 250 W, or 750 W max in to 8 Ω. All types of amplifiers may be used including 25 V and 70 V line driver types.
Once connected, the SS-2SX is able to withstand signal levels to +19 dBu at 20 Hz without introducing distortion, phase shift or artifact of any kind. This opens the door to expand existing systems without having to run additional line level signals throughout a facility.
Features
- Flat response from 5 Hz to 20 kHz and low phase distortion for improved
transients and imaging
[it is not clear that this spec was intended to apply to "SS" models] - Transformer-isolated design eliminates issues with "Bridged" and "Class D" power amp outputs
- DIP-switch selected ranges for power amps rated at 25 W, 75 W, 250 W, or 750 W into 8 Ω
- Input ranges include 25 V and 70 V line applications
- Entirely passive - requires no power supply
- Available as shown here with professional (XLR) output model SS-2SX with Neutrik SpeakON® input connections, or as a consumer (RCA) output model with screw-strip input connections.
Another angle.
This back view shows the terminal strip.
Here is a closer look at the terminal strip
The bottom of the SS-2SX includes a handy circuit diagram and DIP switch setting chart
Shown here is the product box and the packaged SS-2SX
This connection example illustrates connecting two amplifiers in series. The audio system can be expanded to feed additional speakers to an adjacent room that may already be wired up. Tap the signal from an existing amplifier to feed a second system.
As shown in this illustration, the speaker output from a wedge monitor is fee to a set of powered monitors. Simply connect into the SS-2SX, set the power level and it will deliver a distortion-free line level signal.
This is the User Guide, in PDF format.
Here is the datasheet for the nearly identical full-range model
Why Cable Solutions?
- Cable Solutions is an Authorized Jensen Transformers Distributor, so our customers are ensured full warranty protection and technical support. (Jensen Transformers is obligated to provide neither warranty nor technical support for products purchased from unauthorized resellers!)
- We stock this item locally so that it will be ready for immediate shipment, and no one works harder than we do to get your order shipped out to you fast! On business days, orders that are funded by noon will ship the same day. Orders funded on weekends or holidays will ship the next business day.
- Customer service is our first priority. We do our best to help you find the best solutions for your particular application. We're enthusiasts too, so we know what it's like to wait for cables and accessories that are needed to hook up new gear. We also know how important it is to be able to get a response when you need help, so you'll often find us working long hours in an effort to get you the answers that you need.
- If you have had enough of outsourced support or worse yet, companies that do not even publish a phone number or a functional email address, we think you will be absolutely delighted that you found our company. We know how important it is to be able to get help when you need it. That's why we have people, right here in Texas, ready to respond to your email or answer your phone call. If English is your language of choice, you will have the simple pleasure of communicating with people whose first language is English. Granted, if you call on the phone, you may detect more than a trace of a Texas accent, but that is to be expected when dealing with a family-owned business run by native Texans. We sincerely hope that you will find our heritage of courtesy, honesty, and an ethical way of doing business to be a refreshing experience.
Design excellence, high quality materials, meticulous workmanship, and superior service...put it all together and you get a superior product. Don't get stuck with bad advice, poor service, slow shipment or an inferior product. If you want the best, here it is.