Williams Sound IR Plus Comb

The Williams Sound IR+ Combo is a rack-format infrared audio system with configurable carrier operation, DSP-based audio control, CAT5e connectivity, and dedicated monitoring tools. It supports selectable 2.3/2.8 MHz or 3.3/3.8 MHz carrier frequencies and provides coverage up to 18,000 square feet in single-channel mode. An embedded website enables remote configuration, while front-panel headphone outputs and built-in test functions support setup and diagnostics.

Ideal Use Cases

This model is suited to installations requiring infrared transmission across a broad coverage area and separate monitoring of Channel A and Channel B audio inputs. It is particularly useful when a system must carry +48 VDC power, RS-485 communication, and baseband signals over a single CAT5e cable. Receiver-testing features, an internal test tone, and monitoring outputs also make it appropriate for environments where technicians need efficient installation verification and routine signal checks.

Why Choose This Model

Two combination three-pin XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs accommodate balanced or unbalanced line-level signals, as well as balanced or unbalanced microphones with selectable phantom power. DSP-based processing provides selectable 1:1, 1.5:1, or 2:1 compression, plus high-pass and low-pass filter frequency control. Four RJ-45 emitter output ports deliver power, communication, and baseband signals through CAT5e cabling. Dante is listed as an optional capability.

For direct monitoring, two front-panel 1/4-inch headphone jacks provide access to the Channel A and Channel B audio inputs. A dual IR test LED supports receiver testing, monitoring, and audio signal testing without requiring additional operating details from a separate interface.

Installation and Integration

The black chassis measures 19 inches wide by 1.75 inches high by 8.2 inches deep and weighs 5.2 pounds. It occupies a single rack unit, providing clearly defined dimensions for rack-based installation. The international desktop power supply accepts 110–240 VAC at 50–60 Hz and delivers +48 VDC at 0.75 A through a center-positive output. A rocker power switch with an LED provides local power control and status indication.

The IR M1 supplies 48 VDC to connected equipment through CAT5e cable. Each RJ-45 emitter connection carries +48 VDC power, RS-485 communication, and baseband signals for infrared transmission. Remote configuration is available through the embedded website, and the adjustable auto carrier shut-off timer can also be configured through a webpage. Specified operating conditions are 0–50°C in a non-condensing, non-corrosive atmosphere.

Performance Highlights

The electrical frequency response is rated from 40 to 16,000 Hz at +1 dB and -3 dB, with a typical signal-to-noise ratio of 67 dB. Total harmonic distortion is specified at less than 2 percent for the electrical response. FM wideband modulation operates with +50 kHz deviation and 50 uS pre-emphasis.

A selectable 400 Hz internal test tone can serve as the audio input source during setup and diagnostics. The adjustable auto carrier shut-off timer turns off the carrier when no audio is present, helping operators manage carrier activity according to the installation’s requirements.

What Makes It Different

The IR+ Combo brings audio input flexibility, DSP processing, emitter connectivity, remote configuration, and diagnostic functions into one rack-space format. Its single-cable CAT5e architecture consolidates emitter power, RS-485 communication, and baseband transmission. Dual front-panel headphone outputs allow direct monitoring of both audio inputs, while the dual IR LED and internal test tone provide practical tools for checking receivers and audio signals.

The combination of selectable carrier frequencies, adjustable compression, configurable filters, and webpage-controlled carrier shut-off gives installers multiple ways to tailor operation. Optional Dante support provides an additional configuration choice where required.

Final Assessment

The Williams Sound IR+ Combo is a strong fit when an installation requires rack mounting, flexible balanced or unbalanced audio inputs, four CAT5e emitter outputs, remote configuration, and coverage up to 18,000 square feet in single-channel mode. Listed approvals include CE, FCC, RoHS, RCM, WEEE, CB Scheme, ISED, and VCCI. Warranty coverage is two years on the modulator and 90 days on accessories.