RIVER saar - Audio Equipment Palmer - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Active isolated splitter (Y-Box) for guitar
Brand	Palmer
Model	RIVER saar (PSAAR)
Dimensions	140 x 50 x 98 mm
Weight	0.57 kg
Power Supply	9 V battery (6LR61) or 9–18 V DC power adapter (100 mA minimum)
Number of Inputs	1 unbalanced 6.35 mm jack input
Number of Outputs	1 isolated output (6.35 mm jack) + 1 Thru output (6.35 mm jack)
Galvanic Isolation	Yes, by transformer
Additional Functions	Polarity switch, Ground Lift selector
Frequency Response	20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
Input Impedance	1 kΩ
Output Impedance	64 Ω
Max Input Level	+24 dBu (1 kHz, <1% THD)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	120 dB
THD+N (1 kHz, +4 dBu)	< 0.0005 %
Housing	Extruded aluminum
Operating Temperature	-20 °C to +70 °C
Relative Humidity	< 80 %, non-condensing
Intended Use	Professional: studio, stage, broadcast
Maintenance	Clean with a dry cloth; do not expose to moisture
Repairability	No user-serviceable parts; repair by qualified technician
Included Accessories	Rubber feet, labeling sticker

Frequently Asked Questions - RIVER saar Palmer

What is the main function of the Palmer RIVER saar?

The Palmer RIVER saar is an active isolated splitter (Y-Box) for guitar. It splits a guitar signal into two independent outputs without level loss or ground noise, thanks to an isolation transformer.

How do I power the RIVER saar splitter?

The splitter can be powered either by a 9 V battery (type 6LR61) inserted into the dedicated compartment, or by an external 9-18 V DC power adapter (100 mA minimum) connected to the coaxial jack. Battery operation is recommended to avoid interference.

How do I use the polarity switch?

The POLARITY switch inverts the polarity of the isolated output. Use it if the two outputs are connected to amplifiers where one inverts the phase, to avoid loss of bass and volume.

When should I use the Ground Lift selector?

The LIFT/GND selector disconnects the ground connection between the input and isolated output. Activate Ground Lift (unpressed position) to eliminate hum (ground loops). Test both positions to find the one that reduces noise.

What if the LED does not light up when I press the Battery Test button?

If the LED does not light up, the battery is discharged. Replace it with a new 9 V battery. Use branded batteries to avoid leakage.

Can I connect two amplifiers simultaneously to the RIVER saar?

Yes, you can connect one amp to the OUTPUT jack and another to the OUTPUT ISOLATED jack. Both outputs are galvanically isolated, preventing ground loops.

What is the difference between the isolated output and the Thru output?

The OUTPUT (Thru) delivers the input signal unchanged. The OUTPUT ISOLATED passes through an isolation transformer, eliminating hum and ground loops. Both are unbalanced on 6.35 mm jacks.

How can I avoid parasitic noise when connecting?

Before connecting or disconnecting cables, mute (Mute) the input channels of your mixing desk or audio interface. Switching noises can damage hearing or equipment.

Is the RIVER saar suitable for electric bass?

Yes, the splitter accepts any high-impedance instrument such as electric guitars, basses, acoustic guitars with pickups. Its frequency response goes down to 20 Hz, perfect for bass.

What to do in case of persistent hum?

First check the power supply (battery or adapter). Try activating Ground Lift on the rear panel. Make sure cables are shielded and in good condition. Keep the splitter away from transformers and sources of magnetic fields.

USER MANUAL RIVER saar Palmer

be true to your sound

isolated guitar splitter y-box active saar Palmer®

5

years

guarantee

Isolated guitar splitter y-box active

saar

EN USER MANUAL 3

INFORMATION ON THIS USER MANUAL 4

INTENDED USE 4

EXPLANATIONS OF TERMS AND SYMBOLS 4

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 5

NOTES FOR PORTABLE INDOOR DEVICES 7

PACKAGING CONTENT 8

INTRODUCTION 8

CONNECTIONS, OPERATING AND DISPLAY ELEMENTS 9

NOTES 10

CONNECTION EXAMPLES 11

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 12

SIGNAL FLOW DIAGRAM 13

MANUFACTURER'S DECLARATIONS 14

Let your signals flow, naturally and powerfully like a river! The River Series embodies this claim down to the last detail: highly precise switches designed by our award-winning engineers ensure that sound reaches its destination undistorted – the heart of your listeners.

That's exactly what Palmer® stands for. We have been manufacturing audio tools for professional use on stage, in broadcasting, and in the studio since 1980. Musicians and sound engineers around the world value our solutions developed in Germany for their unhindered signal flow and pure sound – as crystal clear and vibrant as water! So what was more logical than naming the River Series models after German rivers?

On the map of Germany, you can see that the 235 km long Saar river originates from France and flows through Germany through Saarland and Rhineland-Palatinate.

Thank you for purchasing the saar! We hope you enjoy this piece of German engineering. Be true to your sound!

Yours, the Palmer Team

saar

Isolated active guitar splitter Y-box

INFORMATION ON THIS USER MANUAL

Carefully read the safety instructions and the entire manual before operating the device.

▶Observe the warnings on the device and in the user manual.

▶Always keep the user manual within reach.

If you sell or pass on the device, it is important that you also include this user manual, as it is an integral part of the product.

INTENDED USE

This product is a device for event technology, as well as for the studio, TV, and broadcasting!

The product has been developed for professional use in event technology, as well as in the studio, TV, and broadcasting.
Furthermore, this product is only intended for qualified users with specialist knowledge of event technology, as well as studio, TV, and broadcasting!
Use of the product outside the specified technical data and operating conditions is considered improper use!
▶ Liability for damage and third-party damage to persons and property due to inappropriate use is excluded!

▶The product is not suitable for:

▶ Use by persons (including children) with limited physical, sensory, or mental abilities or lack of experience and knowledge.
Children (children must be instructed not to play with the device).

DEFINITIONS AND SYMBOL EXPLANATIONS

1. DANGER: The word DANGER, possibly in combination with a symbol, indicates immediately hazardous situations or conditions risking life and limb.
2. WARNING: The word WARNING, possibly in combination with a symbol, indicates potentially hazardous situations or conditions risking life and limb.
3. CAUTION: The word CAUTION, possibly in combination with a symbol, indicates situations or conditions that may lead to injury.
4. ATTENTION: The word ATTENTION, possibly in combination with a symbol, indicates situations or conditions that can lead to damage to property and/or the environment.

This symbol indicates hazards that can cause electric shock.

This symbol indicates hazardous areas or hazardous situations.

This symbol indicates hazards caused by hot surfaces.

This symbol indicates hazards due to high volume levels.

This symbol denotes a device that does not contain any user-serviceable parts.

This symbol indicates additional information on the operation of the product.

This symbol indicates a device that may only be used in dry rooms.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

DANGER:

1. Do not open the device, and do not make any modifications to it.
2. If your device no longer functions properly, if liquids or objects get inside it, or if it has been damaged in any other way, switch it off immediately and disconnect it from the power supply. The device may be repaired only by authorised repair technicians.

ATTENTION:

1. Do not operate the device if it has been exposed to large temperature fluctuations (for example, after transport). Moisture and condensation can damage the device. Switch on the device only when it has reached ambient temperature.
2. Make sure that the voltage and frequency of the mains correspond to the values specified on the device. If the device has a voltage selector switch, do not turn the device on until it has been set correctly. Use only suitable mains cables.
3. To disconnect the device completely from the power supply, unplug the mains cable or the mains adapter from the socket. It is not sufficient to press the on/off switch on the device. In addition, a connected amplifier must also be disconnected from the device!
4. Make sure that the fuse used corresponds to the type printed on the device.
5. Make sure that appropriate measures have been taken against power surges (for example, lightning strike).
6. Observe the specified maximum output current on devices with a Power Out connection. Ensure that the total current consumption of all connected devices does not exceed the specified value.
7. Replace plug-in mains cables with original cables only.

DANGER:

1. Danger of suffocation/choking! Plastic bags and small parts must be kept out of reach of persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities.
2. Danger caused by falling device! Make sure that the device is securely installed and cannot fall down. Only use suitable stands or mounts (particularly for fixed installations). Ensure that accessories are properly installed and secured. Ensure that all applicable safety regulations are observed.

WARNING:

1. Use the device in the prescribed manner only.
2. Operate the device only with the accessories recommended and intended by the manufacturer.
3. During installation, observe the safety regulations applicable in your country.
4. After connecting the device, check all cable routes to avoid damage or accidents, for example, due to tripping hazards.
5. Always observe the specified minimum distance to normally flammable materials! Unless explicitly stated, the minimum distance is 0.3 m.

CAUTION:

Moving components such as mounting brackets or other movable components may become jammed.

ATTENTION:

1. Do not install or use the device in the vicinity of radiators, heat accumulators, furnaces, or other heat sources. Ensure that the device is always installed in such a way that it is sufficiently cooled and cannot overheat.
2. Do not place any ignition sources such as burning candles near the device.
3. Use the original packaging or packaging provided by the manufacturer for transport.
4. Avoid shock or impact to the device.
5. Observe the IP protection class as well as the ambient conditions such as temperature and humidity according to the specifications.
6. Devices can be continuously further developed. In the event of deviating information on operating conditions, performance, or other device properties between the user manual and the device labelling, the information provided on the device always has priority.
7. The device is not suitable for tropical climates and for operation at heights of 2,000 m above sea level.
8. Unless explicitly stated, the device is not suitable for operation under marine conditions.

PLEASE NOTE: For conversion or retrofit kits supplied by the manufacturer, the enclosed installation instructions must be observed.

CAUTION: HIGH-VOLUME AUDIO PRODUCTS!

This device is designed for professional use. The commercial operation of this device is subject to the applicable national regulations and guidelines for accident prevention.

Hearing damage due to high volume and continuous exposure: use of this product may generate high sound pressure levels (SPLs) that may cause hearing damage. Avoid exposure to high volumes.

CAUTION: Connecting signal cables and operating switches (for example, switching phantom power on and off) can cause significant interference noise. Make sure that input channels (mixer, audio interface, effects device, etc.) are muted while making connections and operating switches. Otherwise, noise levels may cause damage.

WARNING: Unplug the mains adapter from the socket AND disconnect any amplifier that might be connected to the device to put the device in a completely voltage-free state.

ATTENTION: Make sure that the device is not covered while in operation and that the air can freely circulate, especially for the rack mounting!

PLEASE NOTE: Strong magnetic fields can cause humming. For this reason, do not position the device near strong magnetic fields (for example, mains transformer).

PLEASE NOTE FOR PORTABLE INDOOR DEVICES:

1. Temporary operation! Event equipment is generally designed for temporary use only.
2. Continuous operation or permanent installation can impair the functioning of the device and cause premature ageing.

PACKAGING CONTENT

Remove the product from the packaging and remove all packaging material.

Please check the completeness and integrity of the delivery and notify your distribution partner immediately after purchase if the delivery is not complete or if it is damaged.

The packaging content for the product includes:

▶1x saar isolated active guitar splitter Y-box
▶Product data sheet
▶Tour label
▶Rubber feet

INTRODUCTION

The guitar splitter saar functions in the same basic manner as a Y-cable for splitting a guitar signal, but it doesn't have the usual drawbacks, such as sound loss and hum loops. The active electronics and isolating transformer prevent mutual interference between amplifier inputs.

DC 9.18V 9V BATTERY TEST 1 2 3 4

CONNECTIONS AND OPERATING/DISPLAY ELEMENTS - FRONT

1. INPUT GUITAR

Instrument input with a 6.3 mm jack socket. Connect an instrument (electric guitar, electric acoustic guitar, electric bass, etc.) using a shielded instrument cable. When the guitar splitter is not in use, unplug a connected cable from the socket to disconnect the battery from the electronics.

2. DC 9-18 V

Low-voltage socket for connecting an external mains adapter with 9 to 18 V DC voltage and a minimum of 100 mA (polarity = plus outside; mains adapter optionally available). Battery operation is preferable to operation with an external mains adapter, as battery operation is significantly less susceptible to faults.

3. BATTERY TEST

Button to display battery status. If the charge level is sufficient, the corresponding LED indicator lights up orange when the button is pressed. Replace the battery when the LED does not light up when the button is pressed.

4. BATTERY COMPARTMENT

Battery compartment for a 9 V block battery. Only use leak-proof brand products. To replace the battery, open the device's battery compartment by pushing the battery compartment lid's locking lever downwards and folding the lid forward. Remove the depleted battery and insert a new battery in the battery compartment. Make sure that the battery polarity matches the battery compartment polarity (see marking on the battery compartment lid). Put the battery compartment lid back on the housing until it clicks into place. If you do not use the device for a long period, remove the battery to prevent damage to the device from a leaking battery.

POLABILITY LIFT GND ISOLATED 865 7

CONNECTIONS AND OPERATING/DISPLAY ELEMENTS - BACK

5. POLARITY

Switch for adjusting the polarity of the OUTPUT ISOLATED output.

Reversing the polarity may be necessary if the OUTPUT and OUTPUT ISOLATED outputs are used to simultaneously control two amplifiers whose signals are not applied with the same polarity. This can result in the overall signal being attenuated with reduced volume and loss of bass.

If the switch is in the unpressed position, the polarity of the OUTPUT ISOLATED output corresponds to the polarity of the OUTPUT output. If the switch is in the pressed position, the polarity of the OUTPUT ISOLATED output is reversed.

6. LIFT/GND

Switch for disconnecting the ground connection between the input and output (ground lift). The ground connection is disconnected in the unpressed position; the connection is established when the switch is pressed. The ability to prevent a humming loop using the ground lift switch depends on the grounding of the connected devices. It is therefore possible that either switch position effectively reduces or eliminates humming.

7. OUTPUT ISOLATED

The output signal is output via the isolating transformer with the 6.3 mm jack socket.

8. OUTPUT

The input signal is output unchanged via the 6.3 mm jack socket.

ATTENTION: Connecting signal cables can cause significant interference noise. Make sure that devices connected to the output channel (mixer, audio interface, etc.) and the THRU output are muted while making connections. Otherwise, noise levels may cause damage.

CONNECTION EXAMPLES

graph TD
    A["Input Guitar"] --> B["Isolated guitar spider y-box active"]
    B --> C["OUTPUT ISOLATED"]
    C --> D["AMP 1"]
    C --> E["AMP 2"]
    D --> F["Output"]
    E --> G["OUTPUT"]

TECHNICAL DATA

GENERAL

Product number PSAAR
Product type Splitter
No. of channels 1
Type Active
Transformer isolated Yes
No. of inputs 1
Input type Unbalanced
Input connectors 6.3 mm jack
No. of isolated outputs 1
Output type Unbalanced
Output connectors 6.3 mm jack
THRU outputs per channel 1
Ground/lift switch	Yes
Additional functions	Polarity switchable
Operating voltage	9 V battery, 9-18 V external mains adapter
Power consumption	0.5 W
Housing	Aluminium continuous casting
Dimensions (H/W/D)	140 × 50 × 98 mm
Weight	0.57 kg
Ambient temperature (for operation)	-20°C ... 70°C
Relative air humidity	< 80% (non-condensing)
Included accessories	Rubber feet, inscription label
AUDIO
Max. input level (< 1% THD, 20 Hz)	+21 dBu
Max. input level (< 1% THD, 1 kHz)	+24 dBu
Max. output level (< 1% THD, 1 kHz)	+20 dBu
Frequency response (±0.5 dB, relative 1 kHz)	20 Hz-20 kHz
Input impedance (1 kHz)	1 kΩ
Output impedance (1 kHz)	64 Ω
THD+N (30 Hz, +4 dBu, unity, unweighted)	< 0.0006%
THD+N (1 kHz, +4 dBu, unity, unweighted)	< 0.0005%
IMD ($MPTE) (60 Hz/7 kHz, 4:1, +4 dBu)	< 0.0015%
SNR (+4 dBu, 22 kHz BW, unity, unweighted)	120 dB
Transformer ratio	1:1.1

All measurements were performed with a generator with an output impedance of 600 Ω and 1 kΩ balanced load.

CORRECT DISPOSAL OF THIS PRODUCT

PACKAGING:

1. Packaging can be fed into the reusable material cycle using the usual disposal methods.
2. Please separate the packaging in accordance with disposal laws and recycling regulations in your country.

DEVICE:

1. This device is subject to the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive in the currently valid version. WEEE Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive. Old appliances do not belong in household waste. The old device must be disposed of via an approved disposal company or a municipal disposal facility. Please observe the applicable regulations in your country!

2. Observe all disposal laws applicable in your country.

3. As a private customer, you can obtain information on environmentally friendly disposal options from the seller of the product or the appropriate regional authorities.

BATTERIES:

1. Batteries should not be disposed of in household waste. Batteries and recharge able batteries must be disposed of via an approved disposal company or a municipal disposal facility.
2. Observe all disposal laws applicable in your country.
3. As a private customer, you can obtain information on environmentally friendly disposal options from the seller of the product or through the relevant regional authorities.
4. Devices with batteries that cannot be removed by the user must be taken to a collection point for electrical appliances.

MANUFACTURER'S DECLARATIONS

Our current warranty conditions and limitation of liability can be found at: cdn-shop.adamhall.com/media/pdf/Manufacturers-Declarations-PALMER_DE_EN_ES_FR.pdf

Contact your distribution partner for service.

CE CONFORMITY

Adam Hall GmbH hereby confirm that this product meets the following guidelines (where applicable): Low-Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU)

EMC Directive (2014/30/EU)

RoHS (2011/65/EU)

RED (2014/53/EU)

CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Declarations of conformity for products that are subject to the LVD, EMC, RoHS Directives, can be requested at [e-mail].

Declarations of conformity for products that are subject to the RED Directive can be downloaded at www.adamhall.com/compliance/

FCC STATEMENT

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

UKCA- Conformity

Hereby, Adam Hall Ltd. declares that this product meets the following guidelines (where applicable) Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 (SI 2016/1091). The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulation 2012 (SI 2012/3032) Radio Equipment Regulations 2017 (SI 2016/2015)

Adam Hall Ltd. | The Seedbed Bus. Centre | SS3 9QY Essex | UK

UKCA- DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Products that are subject to Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulation 2016, EMC Regulation 2016 or RoHS Regulation can be requested at [e-mail] Products that are subject to the Radio Equipments Regulations 2017 (SI2017/1206) can be downloaded from www.adamhall.com/compliance/

SUBJECT TO MISPRINTS AND ERRORS, AS WELL AS TECHNICAL OR OTHER MODIFICATIONS!

FRANKFURT Saoar

graph TD
    A["Input Guitar"] --> B["Isolated guitar spider y-box active"]
    B --> C["OUTPUT ISOLATED"]
    C --> D["AMP 1"]
    C --> E["AMP 2"]
    D --> F["Output"]
    E --> G["Output"]

TECHNISCHE DATEN

ALLGEMEIN

ENTSORGUNG

VERPACKUNG:

graph TD
    A["Input Guitar"] --> B["Isolated guitar spider y-box active"]
    B --> C["OUTPUT ISOLATED"]
    C --> D["AMP 1"]
    C --> E["AMP 2"]
    D --> F["Output"]
    E --> G["Output"]

CARACTÉRISTIQUES TECHNIQUES

GÉNÉRALITÉS

MISE AU REBUT

EMBALLAGE :

DÉCLARATION DE CONFORMITÉ CE

graph TD
    A["Input Guitar"] --> B["Isolated guitar spider y-box active"]
    B --> C["OUTPUT ISOLATED"]
    C --> D["AMP 1"]
    C --> E["AMP 2"]
    D --> F["Output"]
    E --> G["Output"]

CARACTERÍSTICAS TÉCNICAS

GENERAL

ELIMINACIÓN

EMBALAJE:

graph TD
    A["Input Guitar"] --> B["Isolated guitar spider y-box active"]
    B --> C["OUTPUT ISOLATED"]
    C --> D["AMP 1"]
    C --> E["AMP 2"]
    D --> F["Output"]
    E --> G["OUTPUT"]

SPECYFIKACJE TECHNICZNE

OGÓLNA CHARAKTERYSTYKA

Numer produktu PSAAR

UTYLIZACJA

OPAKOWANIE:

graph TD
    A["Input Guitar"] --> B["Isolated guitar spider y-box active"]
    B --> C["OUTPUT ISOLATED"]
    C --> D["AMP 1"]
    C --> E["AMP 2"]
    D --> F["Output"]
    E --> G["Output"]

DATI TECNICI

ASPETTI GENERALI

SMALTIMENTO

IMBALLAGGIO