4 Audio Authority Model 1173BK User Manual
The 1173BK provides an audio breakout point to connect AVAtrix source audio to audio distribution equipment that
accepts stereo analog audio (for digital audio, see page 7). The analog outputs are volume controlled via commands
transmitted through the AVAtrix IR inputs or the RS-232 port. The 1173BK can be used in two different modes: Tracking
Mode or Source Mode, each designed to integrate with a different types of audio system, as follows:
Tracking Mode, for Use with Simple Amplifiers or AVRs
In Tracking Mode, each 1173BK output switches its content along with the AVAtrix so that the audio distribution
system’s output automatically matches what is playing on the video display in each room. Example: Zone 2 is viewing
Source 5 - the 1173BK outputs Source 5 audio from its Output 2. IR commands, including volume control, are routed
to the appropriate zone outputs and sources.
Source Mode, for an Audio System with its Own Switching and Volume Control
In Source Mode, each 1173BK output always provides the audio signal from its corresponding source input on the
AVAtrix (e.g. source 2 audio is always available on 1173BK output 2). The audio distribution system handles audio
signal switching and volume control for each zone. The 1173BK volume control is generally not used in Source Mode.
Both modes allow for infrared communication from the AVAtrix Cat 5 receivers in each room back to a distributed audio
system. AVAtrix IR codes are available at www.audioauthority.com/page/software, or from your remote control manufac-
turer. ExpressRamp volume control is only active when using RS-232 commands. See page 10 for details.
Tracking Mode Installation
Place a Model 1173BK in the AVAtrix equipment stack immediately beneath the
related Cat 5 output row. The diagram on the facing page shows a basic system (for
six zones), but an expanded system (for 12 or 18 zones) would be configured as
shown in the table.
The AVM-562 architecture allows up to five expanders. Using Tracking Mode, the
maximum number of Cat 5 zone outputs is 18 (shown) with three 1173BK expand-
ers installed.
1. Set the 1173BK rotary address switches to match the corresponding Cat 5
matrix outputs (AVM-562 and 1176BK).
2. Connect the #1 Cat 5 output of the AVAtrix to the Cat 5 receiver in Zone 1.
3. Connect the #1 analog output of the Model 1173BK to the Zone 1 audio inputs of the amplifier or audio system (see
diagrams on pages 5 and 6). Digital Audio may be used where desired, but volume control must be performed by the
audio distribution system (see diagram on page 7).
4. If the AVAtrix system does not have current firmware (December 16 or later) then the firmware must be upgraded to
version 1.4 or greater. This upgrade allows the AVAtrix to control volume via the 1173BK.
5. Program the remote control system using AVAtrix IR codes, or RS-232 commands. To program IR remotes, download
AVAtrix IR codes from www.audioauthority.com/page/software or obtain the codes from your remote control manufac-
turer. ExpressRamp volume control is only active when using RS-232 commands (see page 10 for serial potocol).
IR Receivers
An IR receiver plugged into a dual Cat 5 zone receiver permits infrared commands to be sent to the 1176BK for A/V
source selection, to the AVAtrix A/V sources for source control, and to the 1173BK for volume control. The AVAtrix takes
care of routing the IR signals generated in each room to where they must go. The AVAtrix may be used with any of five
Cat 5 receiver styles. Models 9878 and 9879 and 9880 dual Cat 5 receivers feature an IR pathway and analog audio, and
1180R and 1180RD do not.
Model AVM-562
(Address A)
Model 1173BK
Address A
Model 1176BK
Address B
Model 1173BK
Address B
Model 1176BK
Address C
Model 1173BK
Address C
