Sound Devices Astral HH

Digital Wireless Handheld Transmitter

with GainForward, SpectraBand, and NexLink

User Guide v8.30

 
Astral HH User Guide    Contents 
 
 
 
 
 

Contents 
Contents ............................................................................................................................................................................. 2 
Chapter 1: Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 4 
1 Key Features ............................................................................................................................................................ 4 
2 SpectraBand ............................................................................................................................................................. 5 
3 NexLink Wireless Transmitter Control ...................................................................................................................... 5 
4 GainForward ............................................................................................................................................................. 5 
5 Safety Information ..................................................................................................................................................... 6 
Chapter 2: Interface Description ......................................................................................................................................... 7 
1 External ..................................................................................................................................................................... 7 
2 Internal ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8 
3 LEDs ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9 
4 Home Screen .......................................................................................................................................................... 10 
Chapter 3: Power .............................................................................................................................................................. 12 
1 Battery Installation .................................................................................................................................................. 12 
2 Powering the Astral HH .......................................................................................................................................... 13 
3 Battery Level ........................................................................................................................................................... 13 
4 Charging ................................................................................................................................................................. 13 
Chapter 4: Identify (ID) ..................................................................................................................................................... 14 
Chapter 5: Menus ............................................................................................................................................................. 15 
1 RF ........................................................................................................................................................................... 15 
2 Pair.......................................................................................................................................................................... 15 
3 Record .................................................................................................................................................................... 16 
4 Mode ....................................................................................................................................................................... 16 
5 Privacy .................................................................................................................................................................... 16 
6 Settings ................................................................................................................................................................... 17 
6.1 Control Ring Settings ........................................................................................................................................ 17 
6.1.1 Control Ring Type ....................................................................................................................................... 17 
6.1.2 Control Options ........................................................................................................................................... 17 
6.1.3 Assignable Commands ............................................................................................................................... 18 
6.1.4 LEDs (Control Ring) .................................................................................................................................... 19 
6.1.5 LED (Control Ring) Options ........................................................................................................................ 19 
6.2 Display Settings ................................................................................................................................................ 19 
6.3 System Settings ................................................................................................................................................ 20 
Chapter 6: Tuning the Astral HH and Receiver ................................................................................................................ 22 
Chapter 7: Audio Levels ................................................................................................................................................... 23 

 
Astral HH User Guide    Contents 
 
 
 
 
 
3 
Chapter 8: Recording WAV Files...................................................................................................................................... 23 
Chapter 9: Jamming Timecode ........................................................................................................................................ 24 
Chapter 10: File Transfer .................................................................................................................................................. 25 
Chapter 11: Updating Firmware ....................................................................................................................................... 25 
11.1 To update Astral HH firmware using a Micro-SD Card: ........................................................................................ 25 
11.2 To update Astral HH firmware wirelessly from an Astral Receiver: ...................................................................... 25 
Chapter 12: Astral Remote App........................................................................................................................................ 27 
Chapter 13: SD-Utility ....................................................................................................................................................... 28 
Chapter 14: Accessories .................................................................................................................................................. 29 
14.1 Included Accessories ............................................................................................................................................ 29 
14.2 Optional Accessories ............................................................................................................................................ 29 
Chapter 15: Swapping Astral HH Mic Capsules ............................................................................................................... 30 
15.1 Incompatible Microphone Capsules ..................................................................................................................... 30 
Chapter 16: Swapping Astral HH Control Rings ............................................................................................................... 31 
Chapter 17: Frequency Authorization ............................................................................................................................... 32 
Chapter 18: Astral HH Specifications ............................................................................................................................... 33 
Chapter 19: CD1 (Capsule) Specifications ....................................................................................................................... 36 
Chapter 20: Servicing the Astral HH ................................................................................................................................ 37 
Chapter 21: Warranty ....................................................................................................................................................... 37 
Chapter 22: Patents .......................................................................................................................................................... 37 
Chapter 23: Legal Notices ................................................................................................................................................ 38 
Chapter 24: Declaration of Conformity ............................................................................................................................. 41 
 
  

Astral HH User Guide Introduction

Chapter 1: Introduction

The Sound Devices Astral HH Digital Wireless Handheld Mic is an exciting new option in the growing line of Sound

Devices Astral® transmitters. In one attractive unit, the Astral HH has unrivaled sound quality, RF performance, and

durability. Perfect for international tours or traveling gig to gig, the Astral HH can operate in any locale around the

world. Available with Sound Devices' new calibrated dynamic mic capsule and natively compatible with any other

manufacturer’s mic capsule, it’s the best of all worlds for the artist, the sound mixer, and the RF tech.

The Astral HH incorporates state-of-the-art features, such as NexLink remote-control, Long-Range modulation,

GainForward, SpectraBand and more, to produce the best sound quality possible. The Astral HH is compatible with the

Astral ARX32, Astral ARX16, and Astral ARX8 digital receivers.

1.1 Key Features

● Worldwide UHF tuning range from 470 MHz-1525 MHz.

● 10+ hours (10mW) runtime from standard 18650 Li-Ion battery

● Patent-pending wideband RocketAntenna design not affected when gripping mic at bottom.

● Reversible Capsule Collar - threaded to accept Shure- or Sennheiser-compatible mic capsule, no adapters

needed.

● CD1 high-precision, fully calibrated dynamic mic capsule for incredible mic-to-mic consistency.

● Long-distance NexLink remote control from the Astral ARX32, Astral ARX16, Astral ARX8 and Web App.

● State-of-the-art 100% digital modulation delivers the longest transmission distance of any system on the

market.

● RF Power output from 2 mW to 100 mW.

● GainForward Architecture – no gain control. Adjust gain at the mixer.

● Full 10 Hz - 20 kHz audio bandwidth.

● High headroom, ultra quiet mic preamp with > 140 dB dynamic range.

● Sunlight readable e-Paper screen for control and display. Display persists with no batteries

● USB-C for pairing with the Astral ARX32, Astral ARX16, Astral ARX8 and for charging.

● Bluetooth for remote control from Astral Remote iOS/Android App and for wireless pairing.

● Talkback features and flexible aux audio rerouting.

● Easily swappable Control Rings with various user-programmable button and switch options

● Quick-change sleeve for easy decoration or complete change of mic appearance. Only 3 pieces, quick and

easy to swap.

● Extremely rugged construction using die-cast magnesium, turned stainless steel, and high-impact strength

polycarbonate.

● Built-in battery charging via USB-C.

● Inductive wireless charging (coming soon).

Note: Terminology used throughout this guide: Astral Receiver refers to the Astral ARX32, Astral ARX16, and Astral ARX8

multichannel receivers.

Astral HH User Guide Introduction

1.2 SpectraBand

The Astral HH features SpectraBand, a technology that enables the Astral HH to tune over a super wide range of 470-

1525 MHz.

Tuning within this range varies by country. For instance:

In the USA, the available frequency ranges are:

● The entire UHF TV band (470-608 MHz)

● The 600 MHz guard band (614-616 MHz)

● The 600 MHz duplex gap (653-663 MHz)

● The 900 MHz ISM band (902-928MHz)

● The 950 MHz STL band (941.5-960 MHz)

● The 1.5 GHz AFTRCC band (1435-1525 MHz), with an appropriate license.

In the UK, the available frequency ranges are:

● The core UK UHF TV band (470-702 MHz)

● The 800 MHz duplex gap (823-832 MHz)

● The 800 MHz guard band (863-865 MHz)

● The DME bands (961-1015 MHz, 1045-1075 MHz, 1105-1154 MHz), with an appropriate license.

● The IMT band (1518-1525 MHz)

Please see https://www.sounddevices.com/available-frequencies/ for further detailed information on which frequency

ranges are available for each country.

1.3 NexLink Wireless Transmitter Control

NexLink is a proprietary 2.4 GHz bidirectional wireless data link technology that allows multiple Astral HH transmitters

to be controlled, monitored, and timecode synced from an Astral Receiver over long distances. NexLink is designed to

offer robust and reliable control over distances far exceeding that of the wireless audio transmission, even in the

presence of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other 2.4 GHz interference. Astral Receivers can pair with up to 64 NexLinked

transmitters at a time.

1.4 GainForward

The Astral HH transmitter supports GainForward, a technology that eliminates the need to adjust audio gain at the

wireless transmitter. Audio levels from the transmitter are controlled either directly at the mixer’s trim control or at the

wireless receiver. If the source is too soft or too loud, adjust the transmitter’s audio level with a downstream mixer’s

digital trim gain control. There is absolutely no noise penalty when the audio path remains 100% digital (i.e., Astral

transmitter -> Astral receiver, Astral receiver digital audio output -> mixer digital audio input). Read more about

GainForward at:

https://www.sounddevices.com/gainforward-explained/

Astral HH User Guide Introduction

1.5 Safety Information

Follow all safety and operating instructions in this guide.

RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS: These safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

HEED WARNINGS: All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

FLAME SOURCE: The product should be situated away from any naked flames such as candles, open fires or gas, oil

or wood burning heaters.

BATTERY WARNINGS: The product should be used only of the type described in these operating instructions or as

marked on the product.

● Do not open, crush, modify, disassemble, heat above 140°F (60°C), or incinerate.

● Danger of explosion if battery incorrectly replaced. Replace only with same or equivalent type.

● Do not short circuit; may cause burns or catch fire.

● Do not subject to extremely low air pressure.

● Battery misuse may result in explosion and/or the leakage of flammable liquid or gas.

● Dispose of batteries properly. Check with local vendor for proper disposal of used battery packs.

● Do not immerse the battery in liquid such as water, beverages, or other fluids.

● Do not insert batteries with polarity reversed.

● Never put batteries in mouth. If swallowed, contact your physician or local poison control center.

● Keep away from small children.

● Pack the battery securely for transport.

ATTACHMENTS / ACCESSORIES: Only use attachments and /or accessories specified and approved by the

manufacturer.

CLEANING: The product should only be cleaned with a soft dry cloth.

SERVICING: The user should not attempt to service the product beyond that described in the operating instructions.

All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

WEEE Statement

If you wish to discard a Sound Devices product in Europe, contact Sound Devices (England) for further information.

Astral HH User Guide Interface Description

Chapter 2: Interface Description

2.1 External

1: Interchangeable Microphone Capsule

Supplied with Sound Devices CD1 cardioid mic capsule. Unscrew counterclockwise to remove and gain access to the

reversible capsule collar. The mic capsule manufacturer is briefly displayed in the ePaper display immediately after

boot-up or several seconds after a capsule is screwed on.

2: Reversible Capsule Collar

Easy-to-reverse collar provides threads compatible with Sound Devices, Shure, and Sennheiser microphone capsules.

See Incompatible Microphone Capsules. Use the included hex screwdriver to unscrew the 3x screws. Remove,

reverse, and reinstall the collar. Secure in place using the 3x screws removed earlier.

3: Antenna Section

470 - 1525 MHz omni RocketAntenna. Designed to be immune from signal loss due to hand covering lower part of mic

body.

4: ePaper Display

For display of status, settings and menus. The Home screen displays Name, Frequency, Battery Remaining level,

Modulation Type, RF Power, Record Status, Mute status, Privacy, Power Off, and Charging status. Displayed

information persists even when batteries are removed. On boot-up, the display briefly shows the firmware version and

fitted mic capsule type. The display incorporates a backlight for viewing in low light conditions. It turns on when booting

up and when viewing any Menu. When in the Home Screen, press the power button to toggle the backlight on/off. The

display illuminates different colors to indicate various operational states - setup in the Settings > Display > Disp LEDs

menu. The display illuminates blue when no capsule is connected, and the mic is on.

5: Body Shell

Unscrew counterclockwise to access the battery compartment, Micro SD card slot, power button, ePaper display

navigation buttons, and USB-C port.

6: Control Ring

The Astral HH offers four easily swappable Control Ring options allowing the user to choose the handheld’s physical

buttons/switches that suit their show’s needs:

● Control 0 (supplied as standard): No external switch control; Incorporates a 6-segment multicolor LED bar

for status display.

Astral HH User Guide Interface Description

● Control 1 (optional): A single programmable button with multicolor status LED. Can be set to None, Mute,

Record, Aux Latch, Aux Hold, RF On/Off, Power On/Off, Control, PTT.

● Control 3 (optional): Three programmable buttons each with multicolor status LED. Each can be set to None,

Mute, Record, Aux Latch, Aux Hold, RF On/Off, Power On/Off, Control, PTT.

● Control Switch (optional): Latching slide switch with 6-segment multicolor LED bar. Can be set to None,

Mute, Record, Aux Latch, RF On/Off, Power On/Off, Control.

2.2 Internal

Access the battery compartment, Micro SD card slot, power button, ePaper display navigation buttons, and USB-C

port by unscrewing the microphone shell counterclockwise.

1: Battery Compartment

Accepts one Sound Devices XL-B18650 battery. Ensure battery is inserted with the positive terminal and negative

terminals facing the correct way. See Battery Installation.

2: Power Button

The red button is used to power the Astral HH on/off or exit from a menu.

● Power On = Press and release button. Press at the same time as the Left Button to power on with RF muted.

● Power Off = Press and hold button until ‘Off’ is displayed.

● When in a menu, press to back out of that menu.

● When in the Home Screen, press to toggle the display backlight on and off.

3: Left Button

Press to navigate up or increase values.

Astral HH User Guide Interface Description

When in the Home screen and in the RF Only mode, press the left button to jump straight to the RF Power menu.

When in the Home screen and in Rec Only mode, press the left button to jump straight to the Record menu.

4: Select Button

Press to select menu items and store values.

5: Right Button

Press to navigate down or decrease values.

6: Micro SD Card Slot

Insert a Micro SD for recording purposes. Format the card from the Settings > System > Format menu.

7: USB-C

For charging, pairing with Astral Receivers, and mounting to a computer for file transfer.

2.3 LEDs

When enabled to do so, the ePaper display and Control Ring multicolor LEDs illuminate to indicate various operational

states. The LEDs can be set to show preferred information and can be disabled when needing to be inconspicuous.

See Settings for how to configure LEDs.

Setting

LED Color

Interface

Audio

Green (variable intensity)

Display

Battery

Green, Orange, Red, Flashing Red

Display, Control Ring

Charging

Flashing Green

Display

Mute On

Blue

Display, Control Ring

RF Off

Purple

Display, Control Ring

Recording

Red

Display, Control Ring

Aux On

Yellow

Display, Control Ring

Pairing

Flashing Blue

Display, Control Ring

ID’ing

Alternating Red, Green, Blue

Display, Control Ring

Firmware updating

Alternating Red, Green, Blue

Display, Control Ring

Timecode jamming

Blue pulse once per second, 10 times

Display

Timecode held when powered down

Blue pulse once per second

Display

Astral HH User Guide Interface Description

2.4 Home Screen

The Home Screen is the default screen when the Astral HH is powered up. It displays the following information:

● Transmitter Name

● RF Frequency

● RF Power, Modulation

● Battery Level and Charging Status

● Mute Status

● Record Status (Rec Mode only)

● Privacy Status

● Firmware version and mic capsule type (displayed for several seconds after power up)

1: Handheld Transmitter Name

Displays the Astral HH’s name (max.12 alphanumeric characters), making it easy to identify the user of the handheld

transmitter (e.g. vocalist, presenter, etc.). The name is used as the volume name of the formatted Micro SD card, and

it is also embedded as track name metadata within the recorded files. By default, the Astral HH’s serial number is

assigned as the transmitter’s name. The name can be edited wirelessly using an Astral Receiver, or Astral Remote.

The Home Screen’s Name and Frequency fields can be swapped. Select in the Settings>Display>Name menu.

2: Mute Status

Mute is displayed when the handheld’s audio is muted.

3: Frequency / MHz

Displays the current transmission frequency.

4: Record Status

The record icon is displayed when the transmitter is recording.

5: RF Power and Modulation Type

Displays the current RF power and modulation type, LR (Long Range), Std (Standard), T&M (Test & Measurement).

When RF Mode is enabled and the handheld’s shell is removed, tap the left button to jump directly to the RF Power

menu.

Displays ‘OFF’ when the RF Power Level is set to Off via the Menu, via a Control Ring or via a NexLink command.

6: Privacy Status

The key icon is displayed when a privacy key is set.

Astral HH User Guide Interface Description

7: Battery and Charging Status

Displays battery level. Displays USB when powered from a USB power pack.

When charging, a lightning icon is displayed next to the battery level.

8: Menu Icon

Remove the shell and press the middle button to access the menu. The display light is enabled when accessing the

menu.

Astral HH User Guide Power

Chapter 3: Power

3.1 Battery Installation

The Astral HH is powered from a Sound Devices XL-B18650 Li-ion battery.

Astral HH User Guide Power

3.2 Powering the Astral HH

1. Remove the handheld’s shell.

2. Insert the 18650 battery into the battery compartment as shown above.

Note: When inserting the battery, the Astral HH will remain powered off or will automatically power up depending on what

the power state was when the Astral HH was previously shut down.

3. Press the red button to power on the Astral HH. Alternatively, a Control Ring button or switch can be

programmed to power the Astral HH on and off.

Tip: To power up the Astral HH with its RF muted, press the red and left most gray buttons simultaneously.

4. After powering up, the Astral HH’s firmware version and mic capsule type are briefly displayed.

5. To power off the Astral HH:

a. Press and hold the red button until the Control Ring’s LEDs go from 6 green LEDs to none.

b. Press and hold any Control Ring button that is assigned to the Power command until the display stops

flashing green.

c. If the ‘Control-Sw’ Control Ring option is installed and the switch is assigned to the Power command,

simply slide the switch to the Off position.

6. When powered off, the name and frequency continue to be displayed, even without a battery inserted.

7. To take out the battery, remove the shell, then lift out the battery, positive side first.

3.3 Battery Level

Remaining battery % is displayed in the Home screen’s bottom right corner. Display LEDs and Control Ring LEDs can

also be set to monitor remaining battery power. LED colors define remaining battery power as follows:

● Green = ≥ 30% remaining

● Orange = 30% remaining

● Red = 10% remaining

● Flashing Red = 0% remaining. RF and Audio are disabled at 0%

Approximate battery run times are detailed in the following table:

RF Power/mW

Total Run Time

~ 12 hours

~ 10 hours

~ 9 hours

~ 7 hours

100

~ 6 hours

Recorder only

~ 15 hours

3.4 Charging

Charging from USB-C

Remove the shell and connect a USB power source to the Astral HH USB-C port.

When the battery is charging, the display flashes green and the charging icon comes on in the bottom right corner of

the Home screen.

Astral HH User Guide Identify (ID)

Note: RF transmission is disabled during charging via USB-C

Charging using an off-the-shelf Battery Charger

The Astral HH’s XL-B18650 battery can also be charged using off-the-shelf battery chargers. We recommend the

XTAR VC8S or for faster charging, the Vapcell S4 Plus v3.

Chapter 4: Identify (ID)

When the Astral HH receives an ID command from an Astral receiver or the Astral Remote app:

● Display LEDs flash red, green, and blue

● Control Ring LEDs flash red, green, blue

This helps to identify which Astral HH is which when many are being used.

Astral HH User Guide Menus

Chapter 5: Menus

Access the Menu to make changes to the Astral HH’s settings. To access the Menu, remove the Astral HH shell and

press the middle button. The display illuminates white to facilitate navigation of the menu in low light conditions. If no

button has been pressed for 30 seconds, the menu automatically exits back to the Home Screen. When in the Menu:

● Navigate menu items using the up/down arrows (left/right buttons).

● Select an item using the middle Select button.

● Back out of a submenu by using the red button.

5.1 RF

Select the RF Menu to change the following settings:

● Frequency: Manually enter RF frequency. Frequency can be set from 470 MHz to 1525 MHz in 25 kHz steps.

● RF Power: Sets the Astral HH’s RF transmit power. It is recommended to use the lowest RF power that gives

the desired range. The lower the RF power the longer the battery run time.

○ 2mW Low Power

○ 10mW Normal Power

○ 20mW High Power

○ 40mW Very High Power*

○ 100mW Extra High Power*

* Note: Only available when the ‘Extra High RF Power’ option is enabled in Astral Remote or an Astral Receiver and there

are no restrictions due to the current country of operation.

● Modulation: Sets the modulation mode. Ensure the receiver is set to the same modulation as the transmitter.

Select from:

○ Long Range Provides best range at the expense of a little extra latency (3.9 ms)

○ Standard Standard range with lowest latency (2 ms)

○ T&M Flattest frequency and phase response for test & measurement applications (7 ms

latency)

● RF On / RF Off: Toggles RF On and Off.

5.2 Pair

Select to wirelessly pair the Astral HH with the Astral Remote app or an Astral Receiver. Pairing is required to enable

remote control of the Astral HH. During pairing, the display shows ‘Pairing. Please wait …’ and flashes blue. Once

paired, the screen exits back to the Home screen. To cancel pairing, press the red button. See the Astral Remote and

Astral Receiver User Guides for further information on how to pair. Pairing with an Astral Receiver can also be

accomplished by connecting the USB-C port to the USB port on the receiver.

Astral HH User Guide Menus

5.3 Record

The Record menu provides the ability to start and stop recording when in REC Only mode. Select Record to start

recording. ‘Record’ changes to ‘Stop’ during recording. Select Stop to end recording. When set to RF Only mode,

recording is not permitted. See Recording WAV Files for more information.

5.4 Mode

There are two modes of operation:

● RF Only: Astral HH operates as a transmitter

● REC Only: Astral HH operates as a recorder

Access the Mode menu to change the mode of operation.

5.5 Privacy

Creates a randomly generated 4-digit privacy key to prevent unauthorized reception of the Astral HH’s transmitted

signal. An Astral Receiver must be set to the same 4-digit key to decode and receive the RF audio.

● New Key: Select ‘New Key’ then press ‘Set’ to generate a random 4-digit key. When the key is set, the home

screen displays the privacy key icon.

● Clear: Select ‘Clear’ then press ‘Set’ to clear the key to 0000.

Astral HH User Guide Menus

5.6 Settings

The Astral HH Settings menu provides access to the Control Ring, Display, and System setting sub-menus.

5.6.1 Control Ring Settings

Select Control Ring to access the Control Ring settings menu. To physically install a different Control Ring, see

Swapping Control Rings.

5.6.1.1 Control Ring Type

Highlight the top left setting and press Select to bring up the Control Ring type menu. Select the Control Ring type that

is physically installed. This ensures that only the applicable LED and button settings for the installed Control Ring are

listed in the menu. Selecting the wrong Control Ring type may result in unpredictable behavior. When selecting a new

Control Ring type, its parameters are set to default.

5.6.1.2 Control Options

The control options available are dependent upon the selected Control Ring type. A control may be a button

(press/release action) or a switch (slide action). Select a Control to assign its function. The following table describes

the options available for each Control Ring Type:

Control Ring Type

Available Controls

Assignable Commands

Control Ring LED Options

Control-0

No controls

None

Off

Mute

Rec

Battery

Control-1

1 button

None

Mute

Record

Aux 1 Hold

Aux 1 Latch

Aux 2 Hold

Aux 2 Latch

Aux 3 Hold

Aux 3 Latch

Aux All Hold

Aux All Latch

Power

Ctrl

Off

Follow Button

Astral HH User Guide Menus

PTT

Control-3

3 buttons:

● Button-L

● Button-C

● Button-R

None

Mute

Record

Aux 1 Hold

Aux 1 Latch

Aux 2 Hold

Aux 2 Latch

Aux 3 Hold

Aux 3 Latch

Aux All Hold

Aux All Latch

Power

Ctrl

PTT

Off

Follow Button

Control-Sw

1 slide switch

None

Mute

Record

Aux 1

Aux 2

Aux 3

Aux All

Power

Ctrl

Off

Follow Sw

Mute

Rec

Aux

Battery

5.6.1.3 Assignable Commands

None: No function. This is the default setting for all controls.

Mute: Toggles mute on and off

Rec: Toggles record on and off (REC Only Mode)

Aux (1-3) Hold, Latch: An Aux is typically used to activate a talkback audio path. An Aux command instructs the

Astral Receiver to re-route the received Astral HH audio to a different output. There are three independent Aux paths,

Aux 1, Aux 2, and Aux 3 – each can be used to reroute audio to a different receiver output.

● Aux Hold: Aux is active only while the button is held. It is deactivated when released. This option is not

available for the Control-Sw control ring option.

● Aux Latch: First press activates the Aux; second press deactivates it.

● Aux: (Control-Sw option), Aux is activated when the switch is in the On position and deactivated when in

the Off position.

Power: Turns the Astral HH on or off. A button must be held > 1 sec to power down. Note that when a control is

assigned to Power, then Control Ring LEDs that are set to Follow Button or Follow Sw display battery level.

Ctrl (Control): The Ctrl (control) command can be used to trigger a GPIO output on the Astral-Opto (when connected

to the ARX32) or Macro on an Astral Receiver. Ctrl commands can be used to initiate macros on a DigiCo console or

activate an alarm or LED or other peripheral over GPIO. There are four selectable Ctrls, one for each control.

● Button-L Ctrl

● Button-C Ctrl

● Button-R Ctrl

● Control-Sw Ctrl

Astral HH User Guide Menus

All assignable commands except for ‘None’ send the Ctrl command even if it is a command local to the mic e.g. mute.

Set to ‘None’ to fully disable the control and prevent sending its Ctrl.

Set to ‘Ctrl’ to only send the Ctrl command but not instigate any function locally on the mic.

RF: Toggles RF power on and off.

PTT: Press to talk. Mic is muted except when the button is pressed.

Note: Concerning the Control-Sw Ring Option: The Control Switch’s physical slide switch setting is overridden by

commands coming from the Astral HH interface, Astral Receiver (via NexLink) or Astral Remote (via Bluetooth), which will

leave the switch in the incorrect physical position. As such, it is necessary to move the control switch first to the physical

position that reflects the Astral HH’s current state before it will perform its next command.

5.6.1.4 LEDs (Control Ring)

Select Control Ring > LEDs to configure the Control Ring LEDs. Each Control Ring type has a different LED

configuration:

● Control-0: Multi-color 6-segment LED bar

● Control-1: One button with multi-color LED

● Control-3: Three buttons each with a multi-color LED

● Control-Sw: One slide switch with multi-color 6-segment LED bar

5.6.1.5 LED (Control Ring) Options

Off: Control Ring LEDs are disabled. This is the default setting.

Follow Button, Follow Sw (Control-1, Control-3, and Control-Sw ring types only):

Follows the action of the activated button / switch.

For example, if the Control-3 ring is installed:

● If Button-L is assigned to the Rec command, then when activated, the Button-L’s LED turns red.

● If Button-C is assigned to the Mute command, then when activated, the Button-C’s LED turns blue.

● If Button-R is assigned to the Power command, then when the Astral HH is on, the Button-R’s LED shows

battery level (green, orange, red, flashing red).

Mute (Control-0 and Control-Sw ring types only): 6-segment LED turns blue when muted.

Rec (Control-0 and Control-Sw ring types only): 6-segment LED turns red when recording.

Battery (Control-0 and Control-Sw ring types only): 6-segment LED displays battery level.

RF (Control-0 and Control-Sw ring types only): 6-segment LED turns purple when RF is off.

Aux (Control-Sw ring types only): 6-segment LED turns yellow when Aux is activated.

5.6.2 Display Settings

The Display menu offers settings related to the ePaper display.

Astral HH User Guide Menus

1. Display LEDs: Multicolor LEDs that can be configured to indicate various Astral HH states. Settings include:

● Off (default) = Display LEDs are disabled.

● Battery = Displays battery power remaining. See Power.

● Audio = Displays microphone’s audio level and mute status (Factory default).

● Mute = Displays blue when muted.

● Record = Displays red when recording.

● RF Off = Displays purple when RF is turned off.

● Aux On = Yellow when Aux is activated (not available when Control-0 ring is selected).

The following states override the Display LED indications above:

○ Display flashes blue when pairing.

○ Display flashes green when charging.

○ Display pulses blue once on the zero-frame when the Astral HH is off and timecode count is

active. Timecode continues counting accurately for 4 hours.

○ Display pulses blue for 10 seconds on the zero-frame when TC is jamming.

○ Display alternates red, green, and blue when the Astral HH is being ID’d.

○ Display rapidly flashes red, green, and blue when Astral HH firmware is being updated.

2. Background: Selects between light and dark display background colors.

3. Orientation: Allows the display to be flipped so it can be read easily in either orientation.

● Normal

● Flipped

4. Name: Selects whether the transmitter name is shown at the top or the center of the Home screen.

5.6.3 System Settings

Select to access the System menu.

● Format: Select to format the inserted Micro SD card. Select ‘OK’ to start the formatting process. Once

formatting is complete, ‘Format Success’ is displayed.

○ Micro SD Cards 64 GB or more are formatted as ExFAT. Recommended for long duration recording.

○ Micro SD Cards 32 GB or less are formatted as FAT32 (4GB file size limit). Max file recording time is

approximately 6 hours.

Astral HH User Guide Menus

● Info: Displays the following information:

○ Serial number

○ Firmware version

○ FPGA version

○ Tuning bandwidth

○ Japanese compliance information

● Restore: Select Restore to restore the Astral HH to factory default settings. Once default settings have been

loaded, the Astral HH returns to the Home Screen.

● Time: Sets the Astral HH’s date/time clock used for file creation time. Use the up/down arrows to set values

for each field and the Set button to move to the next field. Pressing Set on the Minutes field saves the

date/time setting.

Note: When connection is established via NexLink, the date/time setting is overwritten by the Astral Receiver’s date/time.

When connection is established with Astral Remote and the transmitter’s NexLink is disabled, the date/time setting is

overwritten by the mobile device’s date/time.

● Misc: Various miscellaneous settings including:

● Resume Record: Automatically resumes recording on power up [On/Off]

● Extra RF Power: Allows access to the extra high 40 mW and 100 mW RF power settings [Allow/Off]

● FrAuth: Displays Frequency Authorization information. Only displayed if a Frequency Authorization is loaded.

See Frequency Authorization for further details.

Astral HH User Guide Tuning the Astral HH and Receiver

Chapter 6: Tuning the Astral HH and Receiver

RF signals transmitted by the Astral HH transmitter are received by all Astral Receivers. Set the same modulation and

frequency on the transmitter and receiver. See the Astral ARX32, Astral ARX16, and Astral ARX8 User Guides for

more details.

Frequency

The Astral HH transmits on frequencies ranging from 470 MHz – 1525 MHz. The frequencies available are determined

by geographic location and whether you have loaded a unique Frequency Authorization (FA) code issued by Sound

Devices to unlock the use of restricted frequencies. FAs can only be loaded via NexLink from an Astral receiver

Because the Astral digital RF transmission is inherently immune to intermodulation, multiple Astral Digital Wireless

transmitters can be used simultaneously on nearby adjacent frequencies without worry of intermodulation interference.

Frequency spacing between RF channels can be as little as 400 kHz. When operating in the 902-928 MHz Band, it is

recommended to separate channel frequencies by at least 1 MHz.

Set the Astral HH’s transmit frequency from the RF > Frequency menu or via the Astral Remote App or Astral Receiver

via NexLink.

Modulation

The Astral HH offers three types of modulation, Long Range, Standard, and T&M (Test and Measurement). Long

Range modulation has better sensitivity resulting in more robust performance in challenging RF environments.

Standard modulation has lower latency (2ms versus the 3.9ms of Long Range). T&M modulation has been specifically

optimized for the flattest frequency and phase response possible for test and measurement applications. The

Modulation setting must match between the Astral HH and Astral receivers, for the transmitted signal to be received.

RF Power

RF power is the strength of the transmitting signal. The Astral HH offers the following RF power settings:

● 2 mW

● 10 mW

● 20 mW

● 40 mW *

● 100mW *

*These RF Power settings only appear when System > Misc > ‘Extra RF Power’ is set to ‘Allow’.

Set the Astral HH’s RF Power from the RF > RF Power menu or via the Astral Remote App or Astral Receiver.

Available RF Power settings are dependent on the Country of operation and local frequency restrictions. The Country

must be set using Astral Remote and an Astral Receiver.

In situations where the transmitter is relatively close to the receiver, the 2 mW setting offers good range and best

battery life. For most common wireless microphone applications, the 10 mW setting provides excellent range. In

situations where body absorption may be an issue or extended range is required, the 20, 40, and 100 mW settings can

be helpful, but be aware that the higher the power, the lower the battery runtime.

Astral HH User Guide Audio Levels

Chapter 7: Audio Levels

The Astral HH transmitter supports GainForward, a technology that eliminates the need to adjust microphone

preamplifier gain at the wireless transmitter. Audio levels from the transmitter are controlled either directly at the

mixer’s digital trim control or at the wireless receiver. If the source is too soft or too loud, adjust the transmitter’s audio

level with a downstream mixer’s digital trim gain control. There is absolutely no noise penalty when the audio path

remains 100% digital, i.e. Astral transmitter -> Astral receiver, Astral receiver digital audio output -> mixer digital audio

input. Read more about GainForward at: https://www.sounddevices.com/gainforward-explained/

The Astral HH’s audio signal level can be viewed in the ePaper display when Disp LEDs is set to Audio. A variable

intensity green LED indicates signal level.

Adjusting Audio of the Astral HH Signal from an Astral Receiver

See the Astral ARX32, Astral ARX16 and Astral ARX8 User Guides for details.

Adjusting Audio of the Astral HH Signal from the 8-Series

The Astral HH signal can be received and fed to an 8-Series mixer-recorder by docking an Astral ARX16 or Astral

ARX8 to the 8-Series. Gain and low-cut settings are managed on the 8-Series. See the mixer-recorder User Guides for

more information.

Chapter 8: Recording WAV Files

The Astral HH records 32-bit float Broadcast WAV (under 4 GB) or RF64 WAV (over 4 GB) files at 48 kHz sampling

rates to a removable micro-SD card (not included). 32-bit float files are recorded such that gain decisions can be made

after recording. Because of the Astral HH’s high dynamic range (>140 dB), audio levels are never too high or too low.

Learn more about 32-bit float at: https://www.sounddevices.com/a20-mini-32-bit-float-recording/

The Astral HH must be set to REC Only Mode. It is not possible to simultaneously record and transmit.

Astral HH recording can be initiated in several ways including from the:

● Astral Remote App

● Astral Receivers via NexLink

● Astral HH Record menu or via a Control-1, Control-3, or Control-Sw Ring.

The file name format of recorded files is “transmitter name-YYMMDDHHMMSS.WAV”.

For example, if the Astral HH name has been changed to “Barney” and a recording is created on July 10, 2021 at

09:30 (24-hour format), the resulting file is named Barney-210710093000.WAV. All files are recorded at the root of the

Micro SD card.

About recording formats

● The Astral HH records 1-ch monophonic 32-Bit float / 48 kHz wav files.

● For long duration recording, use a minimum Micro SD card size of 64 GB. Micro SD cards 64 GB or more are

formatted as ExFAT which can record file sizes > 4 GB. Recordings that exceed 4 GB are automatically

converted from standard broadcast wav to RF64 wav format.

● Micro SD cards 32 GB or less are formatted as FAT32 which have a 4 GB file size limit. When the 4 GB limit is

reached, recording stops.

● For optimal performance, it is recommended to only use Micro SD cards offering a minimum of Class 10 write

speed.

Astral HH User Guide Jamming Timecode

Chapter 9: Jamming Timecode

In REC Only Mode, Astral HH recorded files are stamped with a start timecode value to make it easy to synchronize

the audio with picture. The timecode can be wirelessly ‘jammed’ into the Astral HH’s internal timecode generator via

NexLink from an Astral Receiver. The timecode frame rate is automatically deciphered from the incoming timecode. If

timecode is not jammed, the Astral HH starts rolling timecode from 00:00:00:00 when it is powered on.

Jammed timecode is held accurately for four hours after powering the Astral HH off, and one hour after the battery has

been removed. This allows time to swap batteries without having to re-jam timecode. When the Astral HH is powered

off with a charged battery inserted, the display pulses blue on the 00-frame crossing to indicate timecode is being held

accurately.

When not being used with an Astral Receiver, timecode can be jammed into the Astral HH via USB-C. To jam

timecode via USB-C, connect a valid LTC source using one of the optional accessories, Sound Devices XL-TC-USBC-

LEMO or XL-TC-USBC-BNC, to the Astral HH USB-C port. Timecode is automatically jammed once a valid LTC

source is connected. After a successful timecode jam, the display LED pulses blue ten times on the 00-frame crossing.

For more information about the Astral HH timecode accessory cables visit:

https://www.sounddevices.com/product/xl-tc-usbc-bnc/

https://www.sounddevices.com/product/xl-tc-usbc-lemo/

Astral HH can also jam timecode directly from 8-Series Mixer-Recorders using a standard USB-C to USB-A cable.

Connect the Astral HH to the 8-Series USB-A port. Enter the 8-Series Menu > Timecode/Sync > Jam Astral

Transmitter then select Jam. The 8-Series Jam Astral Transmitter menu displays the current timecode frame rate and

values for the 8-Series and Astral HH and displays the difference between the two units.

Astral HH User Guide File Transfer

Chapter 10: File Transfer

Transfer recorded files to a computer via USB-C or Micro SD card.

The Astral HH connects via USB-C to a computer as an ExFAT-formatted mass storage device. Copy WAV files from

the Astral HH to the computer. When file transfer is complete, eject the drive from the operating system and disconnect

USB.

Recording must be stopped on the Astral HH before connecting to the computer. While connected to a computer, RF

transmission, audio, and recording are disabled.

Chapter 11: Updating Firmware

Firmware can be updated via micro-SD card or wirelessly from an Astral receiver (ARX16, ARX8, or ARX32).

11.1 To update Astral HH firmware using a Micro-SD Card:

1. Insert a micro-SD card in the Astral HH. Micro SD card is not included.

2. Format the micro-SD card. See Settings > System > Format.

3. Connect the Astral HH to the computer for file transfer using a USB-C cable.

4. Download the Astral HH firmware PRG file from:

https://www.sounddevices.com/download/?prod=Astral HH

5. Copy the PRG file to the root of the Astral HH micro-SD card

6. Eject the Astral HH from the computer.

At this point, ‘Updating firmware. Please wait …’ is displayed and all the LEDs “dance” to indicate the firmware update

is in progress. Once the update is completed, “Update successful. Rebooting …’ is displayed and the Astral HH

reboots. The firmware update can take a few minutes to complete.

When the firmware update completes, the Astral HH automatically deletes the PRG file from the media. The firmware

version is displayed for a few seconds in the Home Screen after powering up. It is also displayed in the Astral Remote

App’s Manage Devices view, the Astral HH’s Settings>System>Info menu, and in the Astral Receiver’s TX List >TX

View.

11.2 To update Astral HH firmware wirelessly from an Astral Receiver:

It is not necessary to have a micro-SD card installed in the transmitter when updating firmware wirelessly.

1. Download the transmitter firmware PRG file from:

2. https://www.sounddevices.com/download/?prod=Astral HH

3. Copy the PRG file to the root of a USB thumbdrive.

4. Insert the USB thumbdrive in the Astral receiver’s USB-A or C port.

5. Install charged batteries in the transmitter and ensure the transmitter is paired to the Astral receiver.

6. Select Firmware Update in the Astral receiver’s System menu to display a list of all paired transmitters

7. Select the transmitter to be updated from the list.

8. Tap the Start Update button in the Astral Receiver’s OLED 4.

9. Select the Astral HH firmware update file from the drop-down list, then tap OK at the confirmation popup.

10. Ensure the transmitter is kept nearby the Astral receiver during the update.

Astral HH User Guide Updating Firmware

At this point, the Astral receiver starts sending the firmware update file to the transmitter wirelessly. OLED 3 displays

the sending progress in %. The Astral HH’s ePaper display shows “Receiving Update. Please wait …’.

Note that it can take a few minutes to send the file and another minute or so for the transmitter to update.

Once the complete file has been successfully received by the Astral HH, ‘Updating firmware. Please wait …’ is

displayed and all the LEDs “dance” to indicate the firmware update is in progress. The Astral receiver’s OLED 3

displays ‘Updating’. Once the update is completed, “Update successful. Rebooting …’ is displayed on the ePaper

display and the Astral HH reboots.

The firmware version is displayed for a few seconds in the Home Screen after powering up. It is also displayed in the

Astral Remote App’s Manage Devices view, the Astral HH’s Settings>System>Info menu, and in the Astral Receiver’s

TX List >TX View.

Astral HH User Guide Astral Remote App

Chapter 12: Astral Remote App

Astral Remote is an application for Android/iOS phones and tablets designed to pair with Astral transmitters (Astral

HH, Astral TX, Astral Mini). All transmitter settings are conveniently controlled using Astral Remote.

Please refer to the Astral Remote User Guide for complete operational details

https://sounddevices.com/guides/a20-remote

When connected via Bluetooth LE to the Astral HH, Astral Remote offers control and display of all Astral HH

parameters, including:

● Power on and off the Astral HH

● Monitor battery status

● Frequency, Modulation, and RF power setup

● Monitor audio signal presence

● Microphone mute

● Transport controls (Record, Stop)

● Timecode display

● Media formatting and monitoring of remaining space

● Astral HH settings (Mode, Display, LEDs, Control Rings, and more)

● Group control of powering, recording, and more

Download and install the Astral Remote app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

https://www.sounddevices.com/a20-remote

Astral Remote has the following minimum operating requirements: Android tablets and phones running Android 8+, or

iPad and iOS devices running iOS 13+. The device must have Bluetooth and Location Services on to connect with an

Astral Transmitter.

IMPORTANT: The mobile device’s location is used to determine available frequencies and RF power levels of the

Astral HH transmitter. The Country setting is automatically set using the mobile device’s Location Services.

The mobile device’s system date and time are used in the metadata of recorded files.

Astral HH User Guide SD-Utility

Chapter 13: SD-Utility

Sound Devices SD-Utility is a companion application for MacOS and Windows that supports Sound Devices wireless

products. This application can be used to process files recorded by Astral transmitters to be more suited to a given

workflow. Astral transmitter 32-bit float, 48 kHz, monophonic WAV, 2ch polyphonic WAV, and RF64 WAV files can be

imported, renamed, snipped by timecode values, converted to 24-bit, conformed to a CSV Sound Report, exported as

monophonic or polyphonic WAV, and more.

Please refer to the SD-Utility User Guide for complete install and operational details

https://sounddevices.com/guides/sd-utility

Astral HH User Guide Accessories

Chapter 14: Accessories

14.1 Included Accessories

The Astral HH package includes the following:

● Astral HH handheld microphone/transmitter fitted with:

○ Control 0 Ring

○ CD1 cardioid mic capsule

○ Reversible Capsule Collar

● Astral HH Pouch

● Astral HH Counterweight-30

● 1x XL-B18650 Li-ion battery x2 pack (with small soft case)

● Mic clip

● Threaded adapter for mic clip

● USB-A to C cable, 1 Meter

14.2 Optional Accessories

● Control 0 Ring

● Control 1 Ring

● Control 3 Ring

● Control Switch Ring

● Reversible Capsule Collar

● CD1 cardioid mic capsule

● Replacement orange and black internal capsule windscreens.

● Microphone shell

● Carry pouch

● Counterweight

Note: Accessory bundles are also available.

Astral HH User Guide Swapping Astral HH Mic Capsules

Chapter 15: Swapping Astral HH Mic Capsules

The Astral HH is compatible with a wide array of different mic capsules:

● Sound Devices CD1 cardioid mic capsule (included)

● Almost any capsule that fits a Shure wireless handheld transmitter

● Almost any capsule that fits Sennheiser wireless handheld transmitter

The mic capsules are easily removed by simply unscrewing them counterclockwise.

The Reversible Capsule Collar can be flipped over to support either Shure or Sennheiser-threaded mic capsules.

Sound Devices and Sennheiser mic capsules have the same thread, indicated by the thicker orange ring inset. Shure

mic capsules have a different thread, indicated by the thinner orange ring inset.

Reversing the capsule collar to accommodate a mic capsule with different thread type:

1. With the left hand gripping the Reversible Capsule Collar and the right hand gripping the mic capsule, unscrew

the mic capsule by rotating counterclockwise.

2. Remove the Reversible Capsule Collar’s three screws using a #0 Phillips screwdriver.

3. Remove the collar, flip it over and screw back into place using the three screws removed earlier.

4. Screw on the mic capsule.

15.1 Incompatible Microphone Capsules

 Lewitt W9

Sound Devices CD1 and

Sennheiser compatible

threading

Shure and other mic

capsule compatible

threading

Astral HH User Guide Swapping Astral HH Control Rings

Chapter 16: Swapping Astral HH Control Rings

The Astral HH has 4 easily swappable Control Ring options:

● Control 0 Ring (supplied as standard)

● Control 1 Ring (optional)

● Control 3 Ring (optional)

● Control Switch (optional)

Swapping out one Control Ring for another:

1. With the left hand gripping the Reversible Capsule Collar and the right hand gripping the mic capsule, unscrew

the mic capsule by rotating counterclockwise.

2. Remove the Reversible Capsule Collar’s three screws using a #0 Phillips screwdriver.

3. Remove the collar.

4. Remove the microphone shell: rotate it clockwise a few degrees, then pull it out a few mm until it won’t pull any

further, then rotate it back while continuing to pull.

5. Slowly ease off the Control Ring from the microphone's body noting that the ring’s inner rubber sleeve will offer

some resistance to removal. Slightly wiggle the ring to help ease off the Control Ring.

6. Before fitting the new Control Ring, place the Reversible Capsule Collar on top of the new ring making sure

that the collar fits over the ring’s protruding inner rubber sleeve.

7. While gripping the Reversible Capsule Collar and Control Ring together with one hand, ease them on to the

microphone’s body making sure to:

a. Align the ring correctly with the microphone body’s switch contacts.

b. Align the collar’s 3 mounting holes with the mic body’s screw holes.

8. Screw the Reversible Capsule Collar back into place using the three screws removed earlier.

9. Screw on the mic capsule.

10. Power up the Astral HH.

In the Settings > Control Ring menu, select the applicable Control Ring type. Each time Control Ring Type is changed,

its settings revert to factory defaults so be sure to configure buttons, switches, and LEDs as required.

Astral HH User Guide Frequency Authorization

Chapter 17: Frequency Authorization

The wireless system operator needs to be aware of local regulations and comply with all applicable laws regarding

operation of wireless devices.

Frequency Authorizations allow the unlocking of restricted frequencies that require proof of a valid license before they

can be used. Once a license has been granted, please contact Sound Devices (RF_Request@SoundDevices.com) to

obtain the necessary authorization. An Authorization ID and License Code will be generated by Sound Devices based

on the license provided. The Authorization ID or License Code can be entered into the Astral Remote App and then

synchronized with an Astral Receiver and its paired Astral transmitters.

An example of a frequency band requiring an unlock code in the United States is 1435-1525 MHz. Program Making

and Special Events (PMSE) wireless operators typically call 1435-1525 MHz the "AFTRCC band". AFTRCC stands for

Aerospace and Flight Test Band Coordinating Council. This organization coordinates a number of frequency bands for

use by air and spacecraft in the United States. This includes 1435-1525 MHz.

Per the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules, wireless microphones are allowed as

secondary users in the 1435-1525 MHz AFTRCC band. This is detailed in the FCC Part 74 rules:

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-74

One section of the Part 74 rules that's of particular interest to operators seeking an AFTRCC band license is 74.803(d):

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-74#p-74.803(d)

Generally speaking, a wireless operator needs to show they've used all other available spectrum before the AFTRCC

will consider a license request in the 1435-1525 MHz range. If granted, the license is normally assigned for a specific

location and a specific time range.

Sound Devices encourages all wireless operators to obtain a Part 74 license, and specifically to make sure applicable

parts of the 600 MHz and 950 MHz range are included with their license application. This can help show an operator is

aware of the available spectrum and is utilizing it responsibly.

More information on Part 74 licensing can be found here: https://www.local695.com/fcc-licensing/

Astral HH User Guide Astral HH Specifications

Chapter 18: Astral HH Specifications

Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. For the latest information available on all Sound Devices

products, visit our website: www.sounddevices.com.

Frequency Range

● 470 to 1525 MHz

● Transmitter tunable in 25 kHz steps

● Available frequencies are dependent on region

RF Output Power

● Off, 2 mW, 10 mW, 20 mW, 40 mW, 100 mW

Modulation Mode

● Proprietary, 100% digital RF modulation

● Standard, Long Range, T&M, selectable

Latency - Mic capsule to Receiver analog output

● Standard (2 ms)

● Long Range (3.9 ms)

● T&M (7 ms)

Antennas

● RF: 470-1525 MHz; Built-in

● NexLink 2.4 GHz: Built-in

Audio Frequency Response

● 10 Hz - 20 kHz, +/- 1 dB re 1 kHz

Audio Input (Mic capsule)

● Compatible with Sound Devices CD1, Shure-style, or Sennheiser-style mic capsule

● Bias power with Shure-style: 5V

● Bias power with Sennheiser-style: 10V

● EIN: -128 dBV (A-weighting)

● Dynamic range: >140 dB

Counterweight

● Internal counterweight available to balance out heavy microphone capsules

Menu and Controls

● e-Paper screen highly visible in direct sunlight

● e-Paper screen holds display image without battery power

● Power button and three navigation buttons protected inside battery compartment

Control Rings

● 4 types available:

○ Control 0, supplied with Astral HH, no buttons

○ Control 1, optional, one push button

○ Control 3, optional, three push buttons

○ Control Switch, optional, one slide switch

Astral HH User Guide Astral HH Specifications

● User changeable

Remote Control

● Astral Remote Android, iOS, and iPad app via Bluetooth 5.2 LE

● Astral Receivers via super-long-range NexLink

Recording Media

● Micro SD Card. Minimum Class 10 write speed.

● Media format: ExFAT for Micro SD cards 64GB or more, FAT32 for Micro SD cards 32GB or less.

● Selectable Record Only Mode or RF Only Mode. Recording is not possible when transmitting audio.

Recording File Format

● 32 Bit Float, 48 kHz, Monophonic wav

● Broadcast WAV (<4 GB), RF64 WAV (>4 GB)

Timecode

● Sync wirelessly over NexLink (from an Astral Receiver)

● 0.2 ppm accuracy

● Holds accurate clock for four hours while powered down with batteries inserted, holds for one hour without

batteries via internal supercapacitor

● Auto Jams timecode via USB-C connector or wirelessly via NexLink

● Frame Rates: 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97 DF, 29.97 ND, 30 DF, 30 ND

● Frame rates are auto detected from incoming source

USB-C

● Mass Storage (USB-C): USB 2.0 high speed for file transfer of internal microSD card recordings

● Charges XL-B18650 Li-ion battery inserted in Astral HH

● Pairing to Astral Receivers

Powering

● Sound Devices XL-B18650 Li-Ion battery

Battery Charging

● Built-in charging of battery via USB-C. Maximum power consumption, 5V, 3A (15W)

● Inductive charger dock for Astral HH (coming soon)

● Battery can be removed and charged in any standard 18650 battery charger

Battery Runtime

● Approx 10 hours at 10 mW RF output power. See Power

● Unit can be completely powered off remotely via app or via NexLink to extend battery runtime

Environmental

● Operating: -10° C to 40° C

● Storage: -40° C to 85° C

Astral HH User Guide Astral HH Specifications

Dimensions and Weight

Astral HH User Guide CD1 (Capsule) Specifications

Chapter 19: CD1 (Capsule) Specifications

Type

● Dynamic mic, moving coil

● Dual diaphragm, dual voice coil

● 100% swept and calibrated at factory

Polar pattern

● Cardioid

Frequency response

● 50 – 15,000 Hz

Output Impedance

● 600 ohms

Sensitivity

● -54 dBV/Pa

Max Acoustic Level

● >140 dB SPL

Astral HH User Guide Servicing the Astral HH

Chapter 20: Servicing the Astral HH

Do not attempt to service the Astral HH. The case is water-sealed and needs to have new gaskets installed if taken

apart. The internal parts are microscopic and not user serviceable. Please send to Sound Devices for any service

needs. https://service.sounddevices.com/contact-support/

Chapter 21: Warranty

Sound Devices, LLC warrants the items listed above against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of

ONE (1) year from date of original retail purchase. Users who register their product directly with Sound Devices

Technical Support using the online form or by phone, will receive an additional ONE (1) year of warranty coverage,

extending the complete warranty period to TWO (2) years from the date of original retail purchase. To extend the

warranty coverage period, registration must be completed within the initial ONE (1) year warranty period. Products

must be purchased through authorized Sound Devices resellers to qualify for Warranty coverage. Damage resulting

from the opening of a Sound Devices product or attempted repairs by a non-authorized Sound Devices repair

technician will void warranty coverage.

This is a non-transferable warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Sound Devices, LLC will repair or

replace the product at its discretion at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions will be addressed

on an individual basis.

THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC DISCLAIMS

ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND

FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL,

INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY

OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set forth above, they

may not apply in all cases.

For all service, including warranty repair, please contact Sound Devices for an RMA (return merchandise

authorization) before sending your unit in for repair. Product returned without an RMA number may experience delays

in repair. When sending a unit for repair, please do not include accessories, including SSD drives, CF cards, batteries,

power supplies, carry cases, cables, or adapters unless instructed by Sound Devices. Sound Devices repairs and

replacements may be completed using refurbished, returned or used parts that have been factory certified as

functionally equivalent to new parts.

Sound Devices, LLC

Services Repair RMA #XXXXX

E7556 State Road 23 and 33

Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA

Telephone: +1-608-524-0625

Chapter 22: Patents

This product is covered under patent number 9,654,134 and other patents pending.

Astral HH User Guide Legal Notices

Chapter 23: Legal Notices

Product specifications and features are subject to change without prior notification. Read and fully understand this

manual before operation.

software license agreement provided with the product and may be used in accordance with the license agreement.

This document is protected under copyright law. An authorized licensee of this product may reproduce this publication

for the licensee’s own personal use. This document may not be reproduced or distributed, in whole or in part, for

commercial purposes, such as selling copies or providing educational services or support. This document is supplied

as a technical guide. Special care has been taken in preparing the information for publication; however, since product

specifications are subject to change, this document might contain omissions and technical or typographical

inaccuracies. Sound Devices, LLC does not accept responsibility for any losses due to the use of this guide.

LIMITATION ON SOUND DEVICES’ LIABILITY. TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, SOUND

DEVICES SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY TO THE END USER OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR COSTS, EXPENSES,

DIRECT DAMAGES, INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, PUNITIVE DAMAGES, SPECIAL DAMAGES, CONSEQUENTIAL

DAMAGES OR OTHER DAMAGES OF ANY KIND OR NATURE WHATSOEVER ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING

TO THE PRODUCTS, THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OR THE PARTIES’ RELATIONSHIP, INCLUDING,

WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES RESULTING FROM OR RELATED TO THE DELETION OR OTHER LOSS OF

AUDIO RECORDINGS OR DATA, REDUCED OR DIMINISHED AUDIO QUALITY OR OTHER SIMILAR AUDIO

DEFECTS ARISING FROM, RELATED TO OR OTHERWISE ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE PRODUCTS OR THE END

USER’S USE OR OPERATION THEREOF, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SUCH DAMAGES ARE CLAIMED

UNDER CONTRACT, TORT OR ANY OTHER THEORY. “CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES” FOR WHICH SOUND

DEVICES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE SHALL INCLUDE, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS, PENALTIES, DELAY

DAMAGES, LIQUIDATED DAMAGES AND OTHER DAMAGES AND LIABILITIES WHICH END USER SHALL BE

OBLIGATED TO PAY OR WHICH END USER OR ANY OTHER PARTY MAY INCUR RELATED TO OR ARISING

OUT OF ITS CONTRACTS WITH ITS CUSTOMERS OR OTHER THIRD PARTIES. NOTWITHSTANDING AND

WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING, IN NO EVENT SHALL SOUND DEVICES BE LIABLE FOR ANY AMOUNT

OF DAMAGES IN EXCESS OF AMOUNTS PAID BY THE END USER FOR THE PRODUCTS AS TO WHICH ANY

LIABILITY HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO EXIST. SOUND DEVICES AND END USER EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT

THE PRICE FOR THE PRODUCTS WAS DETERMINED IN CONSIDERATION OF THE LIMITATION ON LIABILITY

AND DAMAGES SET FORTH HEREIN AND SUCH LIMITATION HAS BEEN SPECIFICALLY BARGAINED FOR AND

CONSTITUTES AN AGREED ALLOCATION OF RISK WHICH SHALL SURVIVE THE DETERMINATION OF ANY

COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION THAT ANY REMEDY HEREIN FAILS OF ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE.

The “wave” logo is a registered trademark of Sound Devices, LLC. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft

Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Bluetooth LE is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Android is a

registered trademark of Google. iPad, iPhone, and iOS are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. All other trademarks

herein are the property of their respective owners.

Astral HH User Guide Legal Notices

FCC Conformity

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.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the

equipment.

Warning! Any modifications or changes made to this device, unless explicitly approved by Sound Devices may

invalidate the authorization of this device. Operation of an unauthorized device is prohibited under Section 302 of the

Communications act of 1934, as amended, and Subpart 1 of Part 2 of Chapter 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

This device must be installed by trained professionals.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for portable conditions. In accordance with FCC

requirements, this device has been tested and found to comply with radiation exposure limits for portable conditions.

ISED Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with ISED radiation exposure limits set forth for portable conditions. This device complies

with the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) requirements at a distance of 0mm.

Cet équipement est conforme aux limites d'exposition aux rayonnements ISED établies pour des conditions portables.

Cet appareil est conforme aux exigences de débit d'absorption spécifique (SAR) à une distance de 0 mm.

FCC Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of

the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential

installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in

accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no

guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference

to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged

to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

● Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

● Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver

● Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected

● Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

Industry Canada Conformity

This device operates on a no-interference, no-protection basis. Should the user seek to obtain protection from other

radio services operating in the same TV bands, a radio license is required. For further details, consult Innovation,

Science and Economic Development Canada’s Client Procedures Circular CPC-2-1-28, Voluntary Licensing of

Licence-Exempt Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands.

This Device complies with Industry Canada Licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two

conditions:

1) this device may not cause interference, and

2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Astral HH User Guide Legal Notices

Conformité à Industrie Canada

Cet appareil opère selon un régime de non-brouillage et de non-protection. Si l’utilisateur veut obtenir une protection

par rapport aux autres services radio opérant sur les mêmes bandes TV, une licence radio est requise. Pour plus de

détails, veuillez consulter le circulaire de procédures client CPC-2-1-28 Délivrance de licenses sur une base volontaire

pour les microphones sans

fils exempts de licence exploités dans les bandes de télévision, publié par Innovation, Sciences et Développement

économique Canada.

Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Son fonctionnement est soumis

aux deux conditions suivantes:

1) ce dispositif ne peut pas causer d’interférences, et

2) ce dispositif doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent causer un mauvais

fonctionnement de l’appareil.

USA White-Space Operation

For USA operation in the 600 MHz guard band (614-616 MHz) and 600 MHz duplex gap (657 - 663 MHz) users are

advised to register with and check a white-space database to determine available channels prior to operation at a

given location.

Japanese Compliance

The Japanese MIC regulatory compliance mark and certification number is displayed in the Astral HH’s Menu >

Settings > System > Info screen.

Astral HH User Guide Declaration of Conformity

Chapter 24: Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer’s Name: Sound Devices, LLC

Manufacturer’s Address: E7556 State Road 23 and 33 Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA

We, Sound Devices, LLC, declare under our sole responsibility that the product

Product Name: Astral HH

Model Number: Astral HH

Description: Digital Wireless Handheld Microphone Transmitter

is in conformity with the essential requirements of the following relevant Union harmonization legislation:

Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU

Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU

RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU

The following harmonized standards and/or normative documents were applied:

Health & Safety (Article 3.1(a) of RED) EN 62368-1:2014

EN 50566:2017

EMC (Article 3.1(b) of RED) EN 301-489-1 v2.2.3:2019

EN 301-489-9 v2.1.1:2019

EN 301-489-17 v3.2.4:2020

RF Spectrum (Article 3.2 of RED) EN 300 422-1 v2.2.1:2021

EN 300 328 v2.2.2:2019

EN 300 440 v2.1.1:2017

Signed for and on behalf of Sound Devices LLC:

Nov 20, 2024

__________________________________ ______________________________________

Date Matt Anderson - Sound Devices, LLC President