Williams Sound IR Plus Flex

The Williams Sound IR Plus Flex is an infrared audio system built around flexible input handling, DSP-based control, web configuration, and CAT5e emitter connections. Its single-rack-unit chassis supports two audio paths, selectable carrier-frequency pairs, front-panel monitoring, and built-in diagnostic tools. In single-channel mode, the stated coverage area reaches up to 18,000 square feet.

Ideal Use Cases

IR Plus Flex is suited to fixed installations that need infrared audio coverage within its published single-channel range. It accommodates systems where source types may vary because each of its two combination inputs accepts balanced or unbalanced line-level audio as well as balanced or unbalanced microphones. Selectable phantom power is available for compatible microphone configurations.

• Single-channel layouts requiring coverage of up to 18,000 square feet
• Rack-based systems using microphone or line-level audio sources
• Installations that distribute power, RS-485 communication, and baseband signals over CAT5e
• Systems requiring local monitoring, web configuration, and built-in testing

Why Choose This Model

Two combination 3-pin XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs provide direct flexibility for balanced and unbalanced sources. DSP-based audio processing adds selectable compression ratios of 1:1, 1.5:1, or 2:1, along with controllable high-pass and low-pass filter frequencies. Carrier frequencies are selectable between 2.3/2.8 MHz and 3.3/3.8 MHz.

Configuration is available through an embedded website, allowing supported settings to be managed remotely. Dante is listed as an optional capability. A front-panel rocker power switch with an LED provides a visible indication of operating status.

Installation and Integration

The black chassis occupies one rack unit and measures 19 inches wide by 1.75 inches high by 8.2 inches deep. Metric dimensions are 48.3 by 4.5 by 20.8 centimeters. The listed weight is 5.2 pounds, or 2.4 kilograms.

An international desktop power supply accepts 36 W, 110-240 VAC at 50-60 Hz and outputs +48 VDC at 0.75 A through a center-positive connection. Four RJ-45 emitter output ports support CAT5e cabling. A single CAT5e connection from the IR M1 carries +48 VDC power, RS-485 communication, and baseband signals for infrared transmission.

Specified operating conditions are 0-50 degrees Celsius in a non-condensing, non-corrosive atmosphere. These requirements should be considered when selecting the rack location and surrounding environment.

Performance Highlights

The system uses FM wideband modulation with +50 kHz deviation and 50 microsecond pre-emphasis. Its stated electrical frequency response is 40 to 16,000 Hz at +1 dB and -3 dB. Typical signal-to-noise ratio is 67 dB, while total harmonic distortion is specified at less than 2 percent for the electrical response.

Selectable carrier-frequency options support 2.3/2.8 MHz or 3.3/3.8 MHz operation. In single-channel mode, the system provides a published coverage area of up to 18,000 square feet. A refresh rate of 60 Hz is also listed in the supplied specifications.

What Makes It Different

An adjustable auto carrier shut-off timer turns off the carrier when audio is not present, with adjustment available through the webpage. A selectable internal 400 Hz test tone can serve as the audio input source during setup and diagnostics. Dual infrared test LEDs support receiver testing, monitoring, and audio signal testing.

Two front-panel 1/4-inch headphone outputs allow separate monitoring of Channel A and Channel B audio inputs. Combined with the embedded configuration website, internal test tone, and infrared test LEDs, these features provide several built-in methods for checking settings and signal flow.

Final Assessment

Williams Sound IR Plus Flex combines dual-source compatibility, DSP compression and filtering, selectable infrared carriers, four CAT5e emitter ports, and web-based configuration in a one-rack-unit format. Its published specifications include wideband FM modulation, a 40 to 16,000 Hz electrical response, and single-channel coverage up to 18,000 square feet. Approvals include CE, FCC, RoHS, RCM, WEEE, CB Scheme, ISED, and VCCI. The stated warranty is two years on the modulator and 90 days on accessories.