IR Plus Complete

The Williams AV IR+ Complete is an infrared audio system built around a 1U rack-mount modulator, CAT5e-connected emitter outputs, and body-pack reception. Its signal path supports two combination XLR/¼-inch TRS inputs for balanced or unbalanced line-level sources, plus balanced or unbalanced microphones with selectable phantom power. DSP processing, embedded-web configuration, front-panel monitoring, and built-in diagnostic tools give installers detailed control from setup through daily operation.

Ideal Use Cases

This model fits installed audio environments that need infrared transmission across a defined coverage area. In single-channel mode, the system is specified for up to 18,000 square feet. Selectable 2.3/2.8 MHz or 3.3/3.8 MHz carrier pairs support configuration around the available operating channels. The body-pack receiver format, dual-lens detector, 3-foot lanyard, four-position channel selector, and 3.5 mm output make the listening side suitable for users who need a wearable receiver with their choice of compatible mono or stereo headphones or earphones.

Why Choose This Model

The modulator combines flexible input handling with DSP-based compression at 1:1, 1.5:1, or 2:1 and adjustable high-pass and low-pass filter frequencies. A 400 Hz internal test tone can serve as the input during setup and diagnostics, while dual infrared test LEDs support receiver, monitoring, and audio-signal checks. Two front-panel ¼-inch headphone jacks provide separate monitoring for channel A and channel B inputs. An adjustable auto-carrier shut-off timer stops the carrier when no audio is present and can be set through the embedded webpage.

Installation and Integration

The black modulator occupies one rack unit and measures 19 inches wide by 1.75 inches high by 8.2 inches deep. Four RJ-45 emitter output ports use CAT5e cables to carry +48 VDC power, RS-485 communication, and baseband signals for infrared transmission. The IR E4 receives 48 VDC from the IR M1 through the same CAT5e connection, keeping power, communication, and signal transport on one cable. Remote configuration is available through the embedded website, and Dante is listed as an option. The international desktop supply accepts 110-240 VAC at 50-60 Hz and provides +48 VDC at 0.75 A, center-positive.

Performance Highlights

The electrical frequency response is 40 Hz to 16,000 Hz at +1 dB/-3 dB, with less than 2% total harmonic distortion. The wideband FM implementation uses ±50 kHz deviation and 50 µs pre-emphasis; the receiver specifies 50 µs de-emphasis. Signal-to-noise performance is listed at 67 dB typical for the modulator and 60 dB minimum for the receiver. Receiver sensitivity is better than 1 nW/cm² for a 40 dB signal-to-noise ratio, and squelch mutes at a 28 dB S/N ratio. The receiver delivers up to 15 mW at 32 ohms through its 3.5 mm output and accepts mono or stereo headphones or earphones rated from 8 to 32 ohms.

What Makes It Different

Setup and service tools are integrated into the signal chain: test tone generation, dual IR test LEDs, per-input headphone monitoring, browser-based configuration, and adjustable carrier shut-off are all specified. The receiver operates on two AA alkaline or NiMH batteries, with listed life of 60 hours on alkaline or 30 hours per charge on NiMH. A red power LED flashes for low-battery indication, and charging contacts are designated for the CHG 3512. Charger data specifies two-unit capacity, 100 mA per bay, and a nominal 16-hour charging time.

Final Assessment

IR+ Complete is a technically detailed choice for rack-based infrared audio distribution when flexible analog inputs, DSP control, web configuration, CAT5e-linked emitters, and wearable reception are priorities. Its strongest practical advantages are the up-to-18,000-square-foot single-channel coverage specification, selectable carrier frequencies, integrated monitoring and diagnostics, and a receiver platform compatible with multiple Williams AV headphone and earphone models. The modulator carries a two-year warranty; accessories are covered for 90 days.