The Loxone Audioserver is a highly versatile audio solution for any type of building.
In combination with the Miniserver, it is possible to play different music for each room and to select from a various audio sources. The doorbell, notifications and announcements as well as alarms are also enabled in this way.
The replaceable microSD card contains the operating system and settings. The LAN interface is used to connect to the Miniserver, and to stream radio stations or music services on the Internet, or media on the local network. The USB interface can be used to connect storage devices with music files.
The Audioserver provides two stereo speaker outputs, which can also be separated and used individually. An analogue audio input, an output and a digital (electrical) SPDIF output (all via 3.5mm jacks) are also integrated.
Using the Tree Turbo interface, every Audioserver can be expanded with up to 10 Stereo Extensions for additional zones or speaker outputs. For larger systems, multiple Audioservers can be used.
Using the Audio Player function block in Loxone Config, the system can be highly customized, the speaker outputs can be assigned to the individual rooms in mono or stereo mode. It is possible to create groups across rooms, allowing for a uniform music experience in open spaces.
For larger rooms, multiple speaker outputs are assigned to the same Audio Player function block. Each speaker output can be configured to output either the left or right channel signal, or a downmix of both channels.
Table of Contents
- Commissioning
- Pairing with the Miniserver
- Factory Reset, Settings and Updates
- Connecting Stereo Extensions
- Pairing Stereo Extensions
- Connecting Speakers
- Mounting instructions for Speakers
- Separate Stereo Outputs
- Line Out, SPDIF Out
- Line In
- Speaker Configuration
- Wiring Example
- Status LEDs Description
- Selecting Power Supplies
- Inputs, Outputs, Properties
- Safety Instructions
- Documents
Commissioning↑
The Miniserver is installed on a DIN rail in a suitable enclosure.
Connect the power supply, the speakers and audio in/outputs as needed. The LAN port is used to connect the Audioserver to the local network or a WiFi router. Connect the Stereo Extensions to the Tree Turbo interface.
The wiring examples provide a brief overview.
The Audioserver starts after switching on the power supply and is ready for operation after about 1.5 minutes. When starting for the first time, the file system on the SD card is unpacked, during this process the status LEDs remain off. Wait until the Audioserver has completed the startup process. After this initial set-up, the Audioserver is ready for pairing with the Miniserver. This is indicated by the status LED flashing red/green/orange.
Then follow the instructions for pairing with the Miniserver.
Pairing with the Miniserver↑
Once the Audioserver is operational and connected to the network, it can be paired with the Miniserver in Loxone Config. Pairing mode is indicated by the status LED flashing red/green/orange.
If this is not the case, reset the Audioserver to factory settings.
To search for Audioservers, first click on Audio in the Periphery tree of Loxone Config, and then on Audioserver Search in the menu bar
The window that opens will list all Audioservers that are ready for pairing. This can take a few minutes:
When highlighting one of the devices, it will identify by flashing its status LED or optionally also by an audible signal through the connected speakers. This allows you to easily identify and name the devices.
Select the desired Audioserver and click on Configure Device to assign a static IP address to the Audioserver. This can also be done via the Audioserver's web interface.
Then, select a name, room and installation location for the highlighted Audioserver and add it to the programming using the Pair Device or + button.
The right window lists all the devices that are currently part of the program. You can display them by clicking the button Show my Devices. You can also replace an existing device with a new device of the same type that was found in the search. This is useful when a device needs to be replaced or devices are added to a pre-configured program. Select the device to be added and the device to be replaced. By clicking on the button with the arrow pointing right, the old device is replaced with the new one in the program.
To apply the changes, save the program in the Miniserver.
Now the added devices are ready for use and available in the Periphery Tree in Loxone Config.
The Audioserver is also compatible with the Miniserver Gen. 1.
Factory Reset, Settings and Updates↑
If the Audioserver was previously paired with a Miniserver and is now to be used in another installation, the pairing must first be released. Connect to the Miniserver and delete the Audioserver from the programming. Then save the program into the Miniserver.
If this is not (or no longer) possible, reset the Audioserver to factory settings by formatting an SD card for the Audioserver in Loxone Config and then inserting it. Alternatively, you can reset the Audioserver to the factory settings via the web interface. Now the Audioserver is ready to be paired again.
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Without these steps a previously paired Audioserver cannot be paired with another Miniserver! |
The web interface of the Audioserver allows network configuration, status display and diagnostic options. You can access it via the IP address or the hostname of the Audioserver. When searching for Audioservers in Loxone Config, the search result includes the IP address or hostname of the Audioserver.
If the Audioserver is not yet paired with a Miniserver, the login credentials for the web interface are admin/admin.
Once the Audioserver is paired, the login credentials of a user of the user group Full Access (Administrators) of the paired Miniserver are required.
The Audioserver can perform firmware updates automatically, if any are available. This requires Automatic Updates to be enabled in the project properties. The Audioserver adopts this setting.
Alternatively, the Audioserver can be updated manually in Loxone Config. To do so, select the Audioserver in the periphery tree and click on Update Audioserver Firmware in the menu bar. The update can also be started from the Audioserver web interface.
Another option is to manually copy the update file (*.upd) for the Audioserver to the SD card. Shortly thereafter, the update will be applied from this file.
If there is no DHCP server in your network, or if the Audioserver is connected directly to a PC, link-local addressing via Zeroconf is supported. If both Audioserver and computer are set to DHCP, they will adopt a 169.254.x.x link-local address.
This way a connection to the Audioserver is possible even without a network. Although this is not suitable for normal operation, it allows you to restore the factory settings via the Audioserver's web interface, or to manually assign an IP address.
Connecting Stereo Extensions↑
Up to 10 Stereo Extensions can be connected to one Audioserver via the Tree Turbo interface. The length of the Tree Turbo data lines should not exceed 150m. The following wiring topologies are possible:
The Loxone Tree Cable can be used for wiring. Use the green/white wire pair for Tree Turbo, and the 1.5mm² orange/white wire pair for the power supply.
For longer runs or multiple Stereo Extensions, either install a power supply closer to the Stereo Extensions, or use multiple supply lines. A separate, larger cross-section supply line can also be used.
If separate power supplies are used for the Stereo Extensions, it is not necessary to connect all the GNDs.
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The Tree Turbo interface is based on a completely different technology than the well-known Tree interface. Therefore , the Tree and the Tree Turbo interface must not be connected! The Tree Turbo data lines should not be run together with other data or signal lines in the same cable. |
The Tree Turbo communication of the devices is IP based, therefore the Stereo Extensions and their IP addresses will appear on the network.
Pairing Stereo Extensions↑
To add Stereo Extensions, first click on the Audioserver in Loxone Config, and then on Stereo Extension Search.
The window that opens will list all connected Stereo Extensions that are not yet part of the program:
When highlighting one of the devices, it will identify by flashing its status LED or optionally also by an audible signal through the connected speakers. This allows you to easily identify and name the devices.
Select the desired device, assign a name, room and installation location and add it to the programming using the Pair Device or + button.
The right window lists all the devices that are currently part of the program. You can display them by clicking the button Show my Stereo Extensions. You can also replace an existing device with a new device of the same type that was found in the search. This is useful when a device needs to be replaced or devices are added to a pre-configured program. Select the device to be added and the device to be replaced. By clicking on the button with the arrow pointing right, the old device is replaced with the new one in the program.
To apply the changes, save the program in the Miniserver.
Now the added devices are ready for use and available in the Periphery tree below the Audioserver.
Connecting Speakers↑
The quadral In-Ceiling 7 Speaker or other speakers with an impedance of 4-8 ohms can be connected to the Audioserver or the Stereo Extensions.
Although the individual speaker outputs are short circuit protected, they must not be bridged.
For optimal speaker performance, the speaker type is set in the output's properties in Loxone Config.
The speakers are connected using standard speaker cable. The recommended cross-section is at least 1.5mm² (AWG16) for runs under 20 meters (65 ft)and at least 2.5mm² (AWG14) for runs over 20 meters (65 ft). Keep the cable length as short as possible.
Connect the quadral In-Ceiling 7 Speakers to the outputs of the Audioserver or the Stereo Extension as shown in the following image:
The Loxone Speaker (discontinued) may only be connected as described in its datasheet.
In order to drive larger or more powerful speakers, the Line Out or SPDIF Out can be used to connect an external amplifier.
Mounting instructions for Speakers↑
The quadral In-Ceiling 7 Speaker and the Loxone Speaker must be installed in a suitable enclosure for optimal performance and sound. The Loxone Speaker Back Box for concrete or the Loxone Speaker Back Box For Suspended Ceilings are perfectly suited for this purpose.
In order to avoid unwanted noise, the box must be installed securely all around and free of any loose or foreign objects.
The Loxone Wallspeaker is a speaker box and requires no installation. It is either mounted to the wall or placed in suitable locations.
Positioning: The speakers should be positioned in the room so that a good stereo effect is achieved at the preferred listening position. To avoid sound reflection, however, the speakers should be placed at least 50cm from the wall.
For optimal sound we recommend the following number of Speakers per room:
1-15m²: 1 Speaker, 15-20m²: 1-2 Speakers, 20-40m²: 2 Speakers, over 40m²: 4 or more Speakers
Separate Stereo Outputs↑
The option to split one stereo output of the Audioserver or of a Stereo Extension into two separate channels allows you to cover two different rooms or areas with one speaker each. The two outputs can be used independently on separate Audio Player blocks.
To separate the channels, first click on the output of an Audioserver or a Stereo Extension in the Periphery tree, then click on the button Separate Stereo Output.
Now two individual outputs are available in the Periphery tree.
In order to merge the two outputs into a stereo output again, click on the button Merge to Stereo Output in the menu bar
This way the outputs can be configured for any situation.
Note: If the outputs are separated, there can be slight crosstalk between the two channels.
This means that at a volume of 65% or higher, you may hear the audio signal on the adjacent channel, even if it is switched off.
For directly adjacent rooms, this effect is usually not noticeable, since at this volume the music from the adjacent room can also be heard through the walls.
The Line Out and SPDIF Out options are not available for separated outputs.
Line Out, SPDIF Out↑
The Line Out (green jack socket) is an analogue audio output. AV devices such as amplifiers, mixers or active speakers with analogue inputs can be connected to this output. Use a 3.5mm jack to RCA cable.
The SPDIF Out (black jack socket) is a digital electrical SPDIF output. AV devices like amplifiers or active speakers can be connected to this output. Use a 3.5mm jack to RCA cable, the electrical SPDIF signal is output on the left (white) RCA plug. Connect this plug to a digital coaxial audio input.
Use high-quality shielded cables for both outputs and run them separately from other cables.
The Line Out and the SPDIF Out can be activated in the properties of the respective output:
When Line Out or SPDIF Out is selected for an output, the speaker outputs are disabled and the signal is output at the Line Out or SPDIF Out instead. The output volume is variable and corresponds to the volume that is currently set on the Audio Player.
The Line Out and SPDIF Out options are not available for separated outputs.
Line In↑
The Line In (blue jack socket) is an analogue audio input. Devices with analogue audio or headphone outputs can be connected to this input.
Use high-quality shielded 3.5mm jack to RCA, or jack to jack cables and run them separately from other cables.
The Line In can be selected as a Source in the interface of the Audio Player function block.
Speaker Configuration↑
At least 2 speakers are usually used in main areas in order to achieve a good sound and stereo effect.
For smaller rooms or side rooms, a single speaker is often sufficient.
For example, the two stereo outputs on the Audioserver can be used for 2 speakers in the living room and 2 in the bedroom, the outputs on a Stereo Extension can be separated and used for one speaker each in the bathroom and hallway.
Programming and room assignment is handled with the Audio Player function block in Loxone Config. The block will be added automatically by dragging an audio output from the Periphery tree to the programming page.
More information can be found in the Audio Player documentation.
Wiring Example↑
The following image shows a simplified wiring diagram for an Audioserver and two Stereo Extensions:
Status LEDs Description↑
Left LED:
Red/Green/Orange alternating: Ready for pairing with the Miniserver.
Orange flashing: Audioserver is booting, or no connection to the paired Miniserver is possible.
Red flashing: no network connection
Green flashing: Everything OK, device is online.
Quick red/green flashing: Device was selected in Loxone Config and is identifying.
Not flashing: Check power supply and SD card. At first start-up: File system on SD card is unpacking, wait for the process to complete.
For the first few seconds after switching on the power supply, both status LEDs flash red and orange alternately
Right LED:
Not used.
RJ45 Port:
The green LED on the RJ45 port flashes when a network connection is established and indicates data traffic. If it does not blink, there is no network connection or the Audioserver was unable to start. If one or both LEDs are permanent on without a plug connected, this indicates that the interface is damaged.
Selecting Power Supplies↑
We recommend using separate power supplies dedicated to supply the Audioserver and Stereo Extensions.
In order to calculate the required power, allow a minimum of 72W for the Audioserver and 36W for a Stereo Extension when using the speaker outputs.
For example, the Loxone 10A/240W power supply is perfectly suited for one Audioserver and 4 Stereo Extensions. The Loxone 4.2A/100W power supply, the smallest suitable power supply, can power e.g. one Audioserver or two Stereo Extensions.
Diagnostic Inputs↑
| Summary | Description | Unit | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Status Audioserver 1 | Digital | 0/1 | |
| Temperature Shutdown | If the CPU temperature reaches a critical point, the outputs of the device are switched off. This can be due to short-circuits, overloaded switching loads or too high an ambient temperature. | Digital | 0/1 |
Properties↑
| Summary | Description | Default Value |
|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device type | - |
| Serial Number | Specifies the serial number of the device. For Extensions: 'Auto' may only be used if only one Extension of this type is being used. |
- |
| Monitor Online Status | When selected, you will be notified via System Status or the Mailer if the device is no longer available or goes offline. | - |
| Address | Address or hostname of the Audioserver e.g.: 192.168.1.7 or LoxoneMusic |
- |
| Notify of error as a voice message | If the selected source cannot be played or there is an error a voice message giving the reason for the error will be played in the corresponding zone. | - |
Safety Instructions↑
The installation must be carried out by a qualified technician in accordance with all applicable regulations.
The installation requires a suitable enclosure to ensure protection against contact, water and dust.
The device must not be used as part of safety-critical systems.
Documents↑
Datasheet quadral In-Ceiling 7 Speaker
Datasheet Loxone Speaker (discontinued)
