User manual MACKIE SRM350

SRM350 2-WAY ACTIVE LOUDSPEAKER USER'S MANUAL CAUTION AVIS 9. Power Sources -- This Mackie product should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in these operation instructions or as marked on this Mackie product. 10. Power Cord Protection -- Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked upon or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit this Mackie product. 11. Object and Liquid Entry -- Care should be taken so that objects do not fall into and liquids are not spilled into this Mackie product. 12. Damage Requiring Service -- This Mackie product should be serviced only by qualified service personnel when: A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into this Mackie product; or C. This Mackie product has been exposed to rain; or D. This Mackie product does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or E. This Mackie product has been dropped, or its chassis damaged. 13. Servicing -- The user should not attempt to service this Mackie product beyond those means described in this operating manual. All other servicing should be referred to the Mackie Service Department. 14. To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure. RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE. AUCUN ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER. CONFIER L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE. AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. Le symbole éclair avec point de flèche à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est utilisé pour alerter l'utilisateur de la présence à l'intérieur du coffret de "voltage dangereux" non isolé d'ampleur suffisante pour constituer un risque d'éléctrocution. The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance. Le point d'exclamation à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est employé pour alerter les utilisateurs de la présence d'instructions importantes pour le fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le livret d'instruction accompagnant l'appareil. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 1. Read Instructions -- All the safety and operation instructions should be read before this Mackie product is operated. 2. Retain Instructions -- The safety and operating instructions should be kept for future reference. 3. Heed Warnings -- All warnings on this Mackie product and in these operating instructions should be followed. 4. Follow Instructions -- All operating and other instructions should be followed. 5. Water and Moisture -- This Mackie product should not be used near water ­ for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, swamp or salivating St. Bernard dog, etc. 6. Cleaning -- Clean only with a dry cloth. 7. Ventilation -- This Mackie product should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the Component should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block any ventilation openings, or placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through ventilation openings. 8. Heat -- This Mackie product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, or other devices which produce heat. WARNING: The heatsink may reach high temperatures during standard use. To ensure proper operation, allow a minimum of six inches clearance from the heatsink surface and adequate ventilation. Pour prévenir les chocs électriques ne pas utiliser cette fiche polariseé avec un prolongateur, un prise de courant ou une autre sortie de courant, sauf si les lames peuvent être insérées à fond sans laisser aucune pariie à découvert. 15. Grounding or Polarization -- Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of this Mackie product is not defeated. 16. Power Precaution -- Unplug this Mackie product during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. Note that this Mackie product is not completely disconnected from the AC mains service when the power switch is in the OFF position. 17. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. ATTENTION --Le présent appareil numérique n'émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere des communications du Canada. WARNING -- To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. 2 Lend Me Your Ears Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a period of time. The U.S. Government's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the permissible noise level exposures shown in this chart. According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound-pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing these levels use hearing protectors while this unit is in operation. Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating this amplification system in order to prevent a permanent hearing loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set forth here. Typical Example Duo in small club Subway Train Very loud classical music Tami screaming at Adrian about deadlines Loudest parts at a rock concert The SRM350 can produce a maximum SPL of 121 dB @ 1m. Duration Per Day Sound Level dBA, In Hours Slow Response 8 90 6 92 4 95 3 97 2 100 1.5 102 1 105 0.5 110 0.25 or less 115 CONTENTS SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .......................................... 2 INTRODUCTION ....................................................... 4 HOOKUP DIAGRAMS ............................................... 6 Quick Start ........................................................ 6 REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION .................................... 8 IEC Socket .................................................. 8 POWER Switch ............................................ 8 POWER Indicator ......................................... 8 CONTOUR .................................................. 8 LEVEL ......................................................... 8 MIC/LINE Switch ......................................... 9 SIGNAL Indicator ........................................ 9 LIMIT Indicator ............................................ 9 INPUT Connector ........................................ 9 THRU Connector ......................................... 9 Accessory Plate .......................................... 9 CONNECTIONS ...................................................... PLACEMENT .......................................................... RIGGING ................................................................ THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS ................................ AC POWER CONSIDERATIONS .............................. SERVICE INFORMATION ........................................ Warranty Service ............................................. Troubleshooting ............................................... Repair ............................................................. CARE AND MAINTENANCE .................................... SRM350 SPECIFICATIONS ..................................... SRM350 BLOCK DIAGRAM .................................... SRM350 LIMITED WARRANTY ............................... 10 10 11 12 12 14 14 14 16 16 17 18 19 Don't forget to visit our website at www.mackie.com for more information about these and other Mackie products. Part No. 0008034-90 Rev. A 10/03 ©2003 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3 INTRODUCTION Thank you for choosing LOUD Technologies' Mackie active sound reinforcement speakers. The SRM350 is an active two-way loudspeaker capable of extremely high sound pressure levels, and designed to give you the best performance of any loudspeaker in its class and price range. When we designed the SRM350s older sibling, the SRM450, our goal was to build a sound reinforcement speaker with the same fidelity and precision found in our reknowned HR824 studio monitors. Apparently, people liked what they heard. Now, our goal for the SRM350 is to make the sound even better with improved active electronics, but delivered in a more compact size. We think you'll agree that the SRM350 sound quality and accuracy reaches this goal and more. The result is a compact sound reinforcement system equally at home in a concert setting, in the studio, impromptu concerts on the studio roof, in the cinema, or in a home theater. Power Amplifiers To power these beautiful things, each SRM350 includes two power amplifiers. They include the following features: · The low-frequency amplifier produces 165 continuous watts before clipping. · The high-frequency amplifier produces 30 continuous watts before clipping. · Both amplifiers are a Class H design, which uses a dual power supply for improved power and thermal efficiency. The amplifiers operate on the lower voltage rails until the signal requires more power, at which point the high voltage rails seamlessly kick in to provide additional power. · An Active Protection Management System monitors the output levels from both amplifiers as well as the operating temperature of the amplifiers. When the output from either amplifier begins to clip, a limiter gently reduces the input signal level until the output is no longer clipping. Likewise, if the temperature of either of the amplifers begins to exceed a safe operating level, the input signal is elegantly adjusted to keep the temperature at a desired operating level. · The low-frequency amplifier also has a Dynamic Bass Boost circuit. Our ears are more sensitive to bass frequencies at high volume levels than at softer volumes. This unique circuit automatically reduces the low frequencies below 70 Hz as the volume of the speakers goes up. This results in improved efficiency for the low-frequency amplifier because it is not wasting power trying to reproduce frequencies we hear better at loud volumes. Instead, the power is used for the frequencies where it is needed, resulting in a louder sound. Warning: Although the amplifiers have these protection circuits, you must still make sure the LIMIT light is not blinking continuously. If it is, turn down your mixer faders, or preamplifier gain, or turn down the SRM350 LEVEL control. The Transducers The SRM350 active speakers feature a 10 high-power low-frequency woofer and a 1.4 titanium diaphragm high-output precision compression driver. This high- frequency driver is mounted on an acoustically nonresonant exponential waveguide, providing a wide, controlled dispersion and precise reproduction of the critical upper mid-range and high frequencies. The result is an unbelievably smooth off-axis response that allows everyone in the audience to experience the same high-resolution audio no matter where they are seated. Each driver has been specifically designed by our engineers for optimum performance in the lightweight high-strength cabinet. 4 The Crossover The built-in electronic crossover is a 24 dB/octave Linkwitz-Riley design. Although more expensive than other crossover designs, the benefits provided by the Linkwitz-Riley design have been well documented. These benefits include: · Absolutely flat frequency response throughout the bandpass, without the characteristic ripple near the crossover point exhibited by other designs. · The sharp 24 dB per octave roll-off of the filters ensures that the transducers aren't reproducing frequencies outside of their capabilities. · The acoustic sum of the two driver responses is unity at the crossover frequency, resulting in perfect power response. · Our heroic engineers have worked carefully to ensure that the SRM350 also provides perfect phase response. This diligence has yielded phenomenal accuracy, even if you are standing 20 feet away. The Active Advantage There are a number of advantages to using an active speaker system over a passive loudspeaker: · The internal crossover is active, and its low power circuitry operates on linelevel signals. It does not waste speaker-level power like a passive crossover with large coils, caps, and resistors. · The input signals are crossed over before they reach the amplifiers, so each amplifier only receives the correct frequency range for its driver. · The amplifiers are designed specifically for these speaker load impedances. There is no guesswork as to what load each amplifier has to drive, so they can provide maximum acoustic output from the speakers, yet minimize the danger of speaker damage due to overdriving a lesser amplifier. · The connecting wires between the amplifier outputs and the drivers are kept to a minimum, so the damping factor of the amplifier isn't compromised by the resistance of long speaker cables. In addition, all the power from the amplifier is transferred directly to the drivers with no speaker cable losses. · The acoustic sum of the outputs from the two drivers is optimized electronically, as well as physically, so the amplitude response is flat and there is no lobing error. · The presence of active circuits within the speaker cabinet allow the designer to add on extra details, such as a high quality mic/line input section and optional accessory modules. In short, all the complex interconnected components in the system are designed to work in harmony with each other to produce the best possible sound. The Cabinet The SRM350 cabinet was designed to be the strongest molded composite cabinet on the planet. This material is as strong as concrete, and rigid enough to prevent unwanted vibrations in the cabinet. An optional accessory plate is available for the top and bottom of the cabinet to be used for flying, and a socket in the bottom for mounting on a tripod stand. Although it is an exceptional choice for installed sound situations, its light weight and durable finish also make it ideal for portable sound system use. The asymmetrical trapezoidal design of the cabinet makes it easy to use as a floor wedge for stage monitor applications. 5 HOOKUP DIAGRAMS Quick Start 1. Start with the following settings on the back of the SRM350: Turn the POWER switch off (down). Set the CONTOUR and MIC/LINE switches out. If using a microphone as the input to the SRM350, push the MIC/ LINE switch in. WARNING: Turn the LEVEL control down (counterclockwise) before every use. If not, you could be in for a startling surprise, especially if the last time you used it was with a microphone and now you want to connect a linelevel source. 2. Connect the output from your signal source (mixing console, microphone, preamp, or other mic- or line-level source) directly to the INPUT connector on the back of the SRM350. This is a combination XLR and 1/4 TRS connector, and accepts balanced or unbalanced line-level signals from mixers, preamplifiers, CD players, tape decks, etc., with the MIC/LINE switch SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. out, and accepts direct connections from dynamic microphones with the MIC/ LINE switch pushed in. Connect the supplied AC power cord to the IEC socket on the back of the SRM350. Plug the other end into an AC outlet properly configured with the correct voltage for your particular model. Turn on your signal source. Make sure its Master Volume control (if it has one) is turned all the way down. Turn on the SRM350 POWER switch. Start the signal source, whether it be speaking into a microphone or starting a CD player. Adjust any volume controls on the signal source for normal operation. Slowly turn up the LEVEL control on the back of the SRM350 until the desired volume is reached (and the LIMIT light does not come on). Always wear hearing protectors if you are close when it is playing at high levels. If there is no sound, always turn down the SRM350 LEVEL control before investigating. There may be a mixer or preamplifier mute or tape switch engaged, or a mic switch off. SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIMIT THRU SIGNAL LIMIT THRU NORMAL NORMAL ON PARALLEL GAIN MIC ON PARALLEL GAIN MIC O O +45 +5dB O O +45 +5dB LEVEL INPUT LEVEL INPUT 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. Left Line level Output Mixer or Preamplifier Right Line level Output 1202-VLZ PRO SRM350: STEREO OPERATION WITH A MIXER 6 Next SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SRM350 POWER THRU ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SRM350 POWER THRU ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SRM350 POWER THRU ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIMIT SIGNAL LIMIT SIGNAL LIMIT SIGNAL LIMIT THRU NORMAL NORMAL NORMAL NORMAL ON MIC GAIN ON MIC GAIN ON MIC GAIN ON MIC GAIN Next PARALLEL PARALLEL PARALLEL PARALLEL O O +45 +5dB O O +45 +5dB O O +45 +5dB O O +45 +5dB LEVEL INPUT LEVEL INPUT LEVEL INPUT LEVEL INPUT 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. Thru SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM Thru SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIMIT THRU SIGNAL LIMIT THRU NORMAL NORMAL ON MIC GAIN ON MIC PARALLEL PARALLEL GAIN O O +45 +5dB O O +45 +5dB LEVEL INPUT LEVEL INPUT 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 1202-VLZPRO SRM350: DAISY-CHAINING USING THE THRU JACK The SRM350 can be used with a Mackie SWA1501 or SWA1801 subwoofer to create an incredibly powerful system. The active crossover inside the subwoofer splits the full range input signal into two ranges. The subwoofer plays the low frequency range through its builtin amplifier and woofer, and sends the high-pass range to the SRM350. The SRM350 can be pole mounted on top of the SWA1501 or 1801 as shown. Pole Mount Line-level Hi-pass out ACTIVE Power Cord Line-level Hi-pass out Pole Mount ACTIVE Power Cord Full Range Full Range 1202-VLZ PRO Power Cords Power Cords SWA1501 plays the low frequencies SWA1501 plays the low frequencies SRM350: BIAMPING WITH A POWERED SUBWOOFER 7 REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION The SRM350 has several connectors, controls, and indicators that you should understand. CONTOUR Pushing in this switch engages a filter that provides 3 dB of boost to the low and high frequencies (below 100 Hz and above 12 kHz). This provides a punchy, crisp sound for most live music applications. You can experiment with this switch by leaving it out for a while, then pushing it in to determine which way sounds best for your application. It is especially useful when listening at lower volumes, as it highlights the bass like a Loudness switch, in addition to boosting the highs. IEC Socket This is where you connect the supplied AC linecord to provide AC power to the SRM350's built-in power amplifiers. Plug the linecord into an AC socket properly configured for your particular model. Note: If you happen to lose the AC linecord, replacements are readily available at any office or computer supply store. Always use a three-pin plug with a ground pin. POWER Switch Switch up to turn the SRM350 on, and switch down to turn it off. Make sure the LEVEL control is down before you turn it on. LEVEL This is used to adjust the signal level, going into the built-in power amplifiers, from Off up to 45 dB of gain. Since the SRM350 incorporates Mackie's world-class low-noise mic preamp technology, you can connect either a line-level or a microphone-level signal to the input, and use this control to adjust the level correctly. There is no phantom power for a microphone, so you should use a dynamic mic, or use a condensor type if it has its own battery power. POWER Indicator When the POWER switch is turned on, and the linecord is connected to an active AC Mains supply, this indicator, located just above the POWER switch, glows to let you know that you're ready to rock and roll. The cool blue LED on the front of the speaker works in the same way. SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIMIT THRU NORMAL ON PARALLEL GA MIC IN O O +45 +5dB LEVEL INPUT 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 8 Follow the Quick Start guide on page 6 for setting the LEVEL control. For most applications, it will be in the NORMAL position (12 o'clock) . If you have a particularly high line-level signal connected to the SRM350, you may need to turn the control down to the 9 o'clock position. If you have a low line-level or mic-level signal connected, you may need to turn the LEVEL control up to the 3 o'clock position. INPUT Connector This is a combination female XLR-type and 1/4 TRS connector that accepts a balanced or unbalanced mic- or line-level signal. THRU Connector This is a male XLR-type connector that can be used to daisy-chain the input signal to another speaker. The signal at this point is after the MIC/ LINE switch but before the LEVEL control. If you have a microphone connected to the first SRM350 and you have the MIC/LINE switch pushed in, the signal at the THRU jack is boosted 40 dB to a line-level, so leave the MIC/LINE switch out on the next SRM350. MIC/LINE Switch Leave this switch out when connecting a line-level signal to the INPUT connector (from a mixer, graphic EQ, or other linelevel signal source). Push this switch in when connecting a microphone to the INPUT connector. Since a microphone produces a much smaller signal than a line-level signal, this provides an additional 40 dB of gain to boost the microphone signal to a line level. ACCESSORY Plate This removable plate provides access to install future accessory modules. SIGNAL Indicator This LED illuminates whenever there is a signal present at the INPUT connector on the rear panel. It senses the signal just after the LEVEL control, so if the LEVEL control is turned down, the SIGNAL indicator won't light. CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. LIMIT Indicator When the signal levels at the amplifier outputs approach clipping, a soft limiting circuit is activated that reduces the input signal. The LIMIT LED lights whenever the limit circuit is active. It's okay for the LIMIT indicator to blink occasionally, but if it blinks frequently or continuously, either turn down the signal level at the mixer or other signal source, or turn down the SRM350's LEVEL control. Wear hearing protection if you are close to the SRM350 playing at high levels. SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIMIT THRU NORMAL ON PARALLEL GAIN MIC O O +45 +5dB LEVEL INPUT 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. MANUFACTURED IN ITALY 9 CONNECTIONS The SRM350 has a combination female XLR and 1/4 TRS input that accepts a balanced or unbalanced mic- or line-level signal. When connecting a balanced signal, be sure it's wired per AES (Audio Engineering Society) standards: XLR TRS Hot (+) Pin 2 Tip Cold (­) Pin 3 Ring Shield (Ground) Pin 1 Shield There is also a male XLR connector labeled THRU. This allows you to connect more than one SRM350 to the output of your mixing console. Simply plug the signal source output into the first INPUT jack, and patch that speaker's THRU jack to the next INPUT jack, and so on, daisy-chaining multiple speakers (see diagram on page 7). The THRU jack's signal comes after the MIC/LINE switch, but before the LEVEL control. If the MIC/LINE switch is pushed in on the first SRM350, the signal at the THRU jack is boosted by 40 dB to a line level. Therefore, leave the MIC/LINE switch out on the following SRM350s in the chain. PLACEMENT The SRM350 active speakers are designed to sit on the floor, a tabletop, or to fit on a standard tripod speaker stand. They can also be suspended by the rigging points, which requires installing the optional accessory plates on the top and bottom of the cabinet. You can lay the cabinet down on its side and use the SRM350 as a floor monitor. The asymmetrical trapezoidal shape of the cabinet provides a perfect angle for aiming up toward performers from the front of the stage. As with any powered components, protect them from moisture. If you are setting them up outdoors, make sure they are under cover if you expect rain. The SRM350 generates magnetic fields. Do not place them closer than 2 or 3 feet (60-100 cm) from TV or computer monitors. Check the screen for any change in color or distortion. Do not place any magnetic audio or video tapes or computer discs near the SRM350s. Room Acoustics The SRM350 active speakers are designed to sound as neutral as possible; that is, to reproduce the input signal as accurately as possible, monitoring the sound rather than changing it. Room acoustics play a crucial role in the overall performance of a sound system. However, the wide high-frequency dispersion of the SRM350 helps to minimize the problems that typically arise. RING SLEEVE SLEEVE RING TIP Balanced XLR Connectors TIP Top RING (COLD) TIP (HOT) SLEEVE (SHIELD) 900 Balanced TRS Connectors 10 900 Dispersion up to 20 kHz Here are some useful placement tips: · Avoid placing loudspeakers in the corners of a room. This increases the low-frequency output and can cause the sound to be muddy and indistinct. · Avoid placing loudspeakers against a wall. This, too, increases the low-frequency output, though not as much as corner placement. However, if you do need to reinforce the low frequencies, this is a good way to do it. · Avoid placing the active speakers directly on a hollow stage floor. A hollow stage can resonate at certain frequencies, causing peaks and dips in the frequency response of the room. It's better to place the active speakers on a sturdy table or tripod stands. · Position the active speakers so the highfrequency drivers are 2 to 4 feet above ear level for the audience (make allowances for a standing/dancing in the aisles audience). High frequencies are highly directional and tend to be absorbed much easier than lower frequencies. By providing direct line-of-sight from the active speakers to the audience, you increase the overall brightness and intelligibility of the sound system. · Highly reverberant rooms, like many gymnasiums and auditoriums, are a nightmare for sound system intelligibility. Multiple reflections off the hard walls, ceiling, and floor play havoc with the sound. Depending on the situation, you may be able to take some steps to minimize the reflections, such as putting carpeting on the floors, closing draperies to cover large glass windows, or hanging tapestries or other materials on the walls to absorb some of the sound. However, in most cases, these remedies are not possible or practical. So what do you do? Making the sound system louder generally doesn't work because the reflections become louder, too. The best approach is to provide as much direct sound coverage to the audience as possible. The farther away you are from the speaker, the more prominent will be the reflected sound. Use more speakers strategically placed so they are closer to the back of the audience. If the distance between the front and back speakers is more than about 100 feet, you should use a delay processor to time-align the sound. (Since sound travels about 1 foot per millisecond, it takes about 1/10 of a second to travel 100 feet). RIGGING The SRM350 cabinets are fitted with four M5 insert points on the top and bottom for installing an optional accessory plate that allows the speaker to be flown. WARNING: Never attempt to suspend the SRM350 active speakers by their handles. If you want to suspend them, use the accessory plate only. M5 inserts for mounting rigging accessory plate Top Pole Mount Bottom If you are hanging them in an inaccessable place, such as over a lion's cage, make sure that you first complete the sound check and set the SRM350 LEVEL correctly. 11 THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS The amplifiers inside the SRM350 are convection cooled by a large heatsink. For efficient cooling, it is important to allow at least six inches of free space behind the SRM350. If the ambient temperature in the room is high, it could cause the amplifiers to overheat. In this case, you should try aiming a fan at the heatsink to increase the air flow through the fins. During a performance, don't have it cranked so high that the rear panel LIMIT LED is blinking frequently or lighting continuously. You should turn down the LEVEL control a notch or two to avoid overheating the amplifiers or your neighbors. If the amplifiers begin to overheat, the Active Protection Management System gently reduces the input signal level until the amplifiers have cooled down to a safe operating temperature. AC POWER CONSIDERATIONS Be sure the SRM350 is plugged into an outlet that is able to supply the correct voltage specified for your model. If the voltage should drop below 97% of the specified line voltage, the built-in amplifiers will no longer be able to supply rated power. (They will continue to operate down to 75% of the rated line voltage, but won't reach full power, resulting in lower headroom.) Under maximum SPL conditions, where musical peaks are clipping, the SRM350 120V model draws 2.5 amps on average (1.3 amps for the 230V model). Under normal conditions, the current draw is below 1 amp. We recommend that a stiff (robust) supply of AC power be used because the amplifiers place high current demands on the AC line. The more power that is available on the line, the louder the speakers will play and the more peak output power will be available for cleaner, punchier bass. A suspected problem of "poor bass performance" is often caused by a weak AC supply to the amplifiers. AC Power Distribution A 240VAC center-tapped service entrance transformer serves the majority of AC outlets encountered in homes and clubs (in the U.S.). This provides two phases of AC power on either side of the center tap, at 120V each. If lighting is used in a show, it is preferable to power the lights from one leg of the service, and power the audio equipment from the other leg. This will help minimize noise from the lights coupling into the audio (particularly if SCRs, or light-dimmer switches, are used). HIGH VOLTAGE POWER LINE 120V PRIMARY WINDING 120V 240V SECONDARY WINDING TRANSFORMER EARTH GROUND (NEUTRAL) 240V CENTER-TAPPED SECONDARY 12 Wherever possible, connect all of your equipment to the same electrical circuit. This will help reduce the possibility of a ground loop problem causing an annoying hum in your speakers. Low power components such as tape decks, mixers, effects processors and CD players should be connected to the same outlet as the SRM350s. Use fused power strips as shown in the diagram below. Make sure that the total current draw of your components does not exceed the capability of the outlets and power strips. For the US 120 V model: A maximum of five SRM350s can be connected per 15A service. This allows each SRM350 to be safely operated at its maximum level. When turning your system on, turn on the SRM350s last. This will stop any turnon thumps and bangs from your source equipment being amplified. When turning off your system, turn off the SRM350s first. This will prevent any turn-off thumps and bangs from your source equipment being amplified. CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN When setting up for a show, often you are plugging into an AC power distribution system you know nothing about. You may even be faced with 2-wire outlets that are missing the third safety ground pin. It's a good idea to have a three-wire AC outlet tester in your toolbox so you can check the outlets yourself to make sure they are wired correctly. These testers will tell you if the polarity of the hot and neutral wires is reversed and if the safety ground is disconnected. Don't use an outlet if it is wired improperly! This is to protect yourself as well as your equipment. Never remove the ground pin on the power cord of the SRM350 or any other component. This is very dangerous. CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SRM350 POWER ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIMIT SIGNAL LIMIT THRU NORMAL NORMAL THRU PARALLEL PARALLEL ON MIC GAIN ON MIC GAIN O O +45 +5dB O O +45 +5dB LEVEL INPUT LEVEL INPUT 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. 100Hz 12k/AIR (+3dB) ~120 VAC 60Hz 2.50A 230VA CONTOUR LINE MIC DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND REGGIO EMILIA, ITALY. SRM350: AC CONNECTIONS 13 SERVICE INFORMATION Warranty Service Details concerning Warranty Service are spelled out on page 19 of this manual. If you think your loudspeaker has a problem, please do everything you can to confirm it before calling for service, including reading through the following troubleshooting section. Doing so might save you from being deprived of your Mackie loudspeaker. If you do find the problem, make sure that you turn down the LEVEL controls and turn off the SRM350 before correcting it or changing any connections. Of all Mackie products returned for service (which is hardly any at all), many are coded "CND" -- Could Not Duplicate-- which usually means the problem lay somewhere else in the system. The following troubleshooting tips may sound obvious, but here are some things you can check: No sound! · Is the input LEVEL control turned all the way down? Follow the procedures in the "Quick Start" section on page 6 to verify that all the volume controls in the system are properly adjusted. · Is the signal source working (and making union scale)? Make sure the connecting cables are in good repair and securely connected at both ends. Make sure the output volume (gain) control on the mixing console or preamp is turned up sufficiently to drive the inputs of the speaker. You should be able to see the SIGNAL LED blink on the rear panel. · Make sure the preamp or mixer does not have a Mute on, or a Tape or Processor loop engaged. If you find something like this, make sure the volume/gain is turned down before disengaging the offending switch. One side is way louder than the other! · Are the LEVEL controls set the same on both active speakers? · Check the PAN control or balance on the signal source. It may be turned too far to one side. If you're using a stereo signal source, it may be delivering an out-of-balance stereo signal. · Try swapping sides: Turn off the active speakers, swap the input cables coming from the mixing console, turn the active speakers back on. If the same side is still louder, the problem may be with your active speakers or cables between the mixer and the active speaker. If the other side is louder now, the problem is with the mixer or the signal source. Troubleshooting No power! · Our favorite question: Is it plugged in? Make sure the AC outlet is live (check with a tester or lamp). · Our next favorite question: Is the POWER switch on? If not, try turning it on. · Is the blue light on the front panel illuminated? If not, make sure the AC outlet is live. If so, refer to "No sound" below. · The AC line fuse inside the chassis is blown. This is not a user-serviceable part. Refer to "Repair" on page 16 to find out how to proceed. Poor bass performance · Check the polarity of the connections between the mixer/preamp and the active speakers. You may have your positive and negative connections reversed at one end of one cable, causing one SRM350 to be out-of-phase. 14 Bad sound! · Is it loud and distorted? Follow the procedures described in the "Quick Start" section to verify that the levels are set properly. · Is the input connector plugged completely into the jack? Be sure all connections are secure. It's a good idea to periodically clean all electrical connections with a non-lubricating electrical contact cleaner. Use an interconnect cable wired as shown below. The important point is that the shield and the wire from the XLR pin 3 are joined at the RCA (source) end. RCA 3-Conductor Cable XLR 2 3 1 shield Noise · Make sure all connections to the active speakers are good. · Make sure none of the signal cables are routed near AC cables, power transformers, or other EMI-inducing devices. · Is there a light dimmer or other SCRbased device on the same AC circuit as the SRM350? Use an AC line filter or plug the SRM350 into a different AC circuit. · Disconnect any cables which come in from outside, such as cable TV, satellite TV or roof top antennas. They must be disconnected from every part of your system, such as the TV, VCR and preamp. If the hum goes away, you can add a "ground loop isolator" in your cable line. This is an inexpensive device available from video or TV dealers, or you can make your own from two TV baluns (standard TV 75/300 ohm adaptors): Hum · Turn the LEVEL control all the way down. If the noise disappears, it's coming from the signal source. If not, try disconnecting the cable connected to the INPUT jack. If the noise disappears, it could be a "ground loop," rather than a problem with the SRM350. Try some of the following troubleshooting ideas: · Use balanced connections throughout your system for the best noise rejection. · Whenever possible, plug all the audio equipment's linecords into outlets which share a common ground (see the diagram on page 13). The distance between the outlets and the common ground should be as short as possible. Never remove the ground pin on the power cord of the SRM350 or any other component. This is very dangerous. · The hum may appear when using an unbalanced source (consumer preamp, CD player, VCR, etc.). This is caused by the unbalanced-to-balanced interface between the devices (and exacerbated by the fact that most consumer audio equipment have a two-wire linecord, without the third-pin safety ground). 15 Balun join (+insulate) Balun The baluns are threaded at one end (75 ohm) to fit TV coax cable and have two wires at the other end (300 ohm). They will not affect the video quality. · If the hum persists, try removing components one at a time from the back of the mixer or preamplifier, and check for hum each time (turn off your equipment before you undo any connections). It is fairly common to find more than one problem. · If your preamp or mixer are the only things connected to the SRM350s and the hum is still there, try different connection cables, or move the preamp/ mixer to another location. Repair Service for the SRM350 is available only from one of our authorized domestic service stations or at the factory, located in sunny Woodinville, Washington. Service outside the United States can be obtained through local dealers or distributors. If your SRM350 needs service, please follow these instructions: 1. Review the preceding troubleshooting suggestions. Please. 2. Call Tech Support at 1-800-258-6883, 7 AM to 5 PM PST, to explain the problem in detail. They will ask you all sorts of impertinent questions in the hope of sorting out the problem. If it appears that the SRM350 needs repair, request an RA (Return Authorization) number. Have your speaker's serial number ready. You must have an RA number before you can obtain service at the factory or an authorized service center. 3. Keep this owner's manual and the detachable linecord. We don't need them to repair the loudspeaker. 4. Pack the loudspeaker in its original package, including protective wrap, endcaps, and box. This is very important. When you call for the RA number, please let Tech Support know if you need new packaging. New packaging can be ordered through our parts department. LOUD Technologies is not responsible for any damage that occurs due to non-factory packaging. 5. Include a legible note stating your name, shipping address (no P.O. boxes), daytime phone number, RA number, and a detailed description of the problem, including how we can duplicate it. 6. Write the RA number in BIG PRINT on top of the box. 7. Tech Support will tell you where to ship the loudspeaker for repair. We suggest insurance for all forms of cartage. 8. We'll try to fix the speaker within five business days. Ask Tech Support for the latest turnaround times when you call for your RA number. We normally send everything back prepaid by ground shipping. However, if you rush your speaker to us by next day air, we'll treat it in kind by shipping it back the same way in which it was received. This paragraph does not necessarily apply to non-warranty service. CARE AND MAINTENANCE Your Mackie active speakers will provide many years of reliable service if you follow these guidelines: Avoid exposing the active speakers to moisture. If they are set up outdoors, be sure they are under cover if you expect rain or you live in Washington. · Avoid exposure to extreme cold (below freezing temperatures). If you must operate the active speakers in a cold environment, warm up the voice coils slowly by sending a low-level signal through them for about 15 minutes prior to high-power operation. · Use a slighty damp cloth with a mild soap solution to clean the cabinets. Only do this when the power is turned off. Avoid getting moisture into any of the openings of the cabinet, particularly where the drivers are located. Need Help? You can reach a technical support representative Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 5 PM PST at: 1-800-258-6883 After hours, visit www.mackie.com and click Support, or email us at: techmail@mackie.com 16 SRM350 SPECIFICATIONS System Specifications Frequency Response (­3 dB) 83 Hz - 18.5 kHz Frequency Range (­10 dB) 61 Hz - 22 kHz Max SPL Long-Term @ 1m 118 dB Max SPL Peak @ 1m 121 dB Crossover Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/octave @ 2400 Hz Horn Design Horizontal Coverage 90º (1 kHz - 20 kHz) Vertical Coverage 80º (1 kHz - 20 kHz) Mouth Size 11.1 in x 6.1 in (283 mm x 154 mm) Enclosure Construction Features Basic Design Material Finish Handles Grille Line Input Power Power Consumption 120 watts with musical program and LIMIT LED blinking US 120 VAC, 60 Hz Recommended Amperage Service 2.5 amps Europe 230 VAC, 50 Hz Recommended Amperage Service 1.25 amps Japan 100 VAC, 50/60 Hz Recommended Amperage Service 3.0 amps AC Connector 3-pin IEC 250 VAC Control System Functions Electronic Crossover Phase Alignment Equalization Parametric Equalization Safety Features Protection Low-frequency Dynamic Bass Protection, Power Supply, and Amplifier Thermal Protection Display LEDs Signal, Power, Limit Asymmetrical Trapezoidal Polypropylene Grey textured finish One on side, one on top Perforated metal with weather-resistant coating Audio Input Type Balanced Differential Input Impedance 94k ohms Sensitivity (center detent) Line: +4 dBu Mic: ­36 dBu Maximum Input Level +22 dBu Acoustic Contour Equalization (peaking) +3 dB @ 100 Hz, +3 dB @ 12 kHz Accessory Interface ± 15 VDC, normalized signal I/O Operating Temperature Range ­10ºC - 45ºC (14ºF - 113ºF) Power Amplifiers Low-Frequency Power Amplifier Rated Power Rated THD Cooling Design Rated Power Rated THD Cooling Design 165 watts continuous* < 0.03% Convection Extrusion Class H 30 watts continuous* < 0.03% Convection Extrusion Class H High-Frequency Power Amplifier * Rated power is continuous RMS wattage into transducer's rated impedance @ 1 kHz for the HF amplifier and @ 100 Hz for the LF amplifier. Physical Properties Height 20.75 in/527 mm Width 13.10 in/333 mm Depth 12.25 in/311 mm Weight 32 lb/14.5 kg Mounting Methods Optional accessory plates for top and bottom of enclosure Transducer Specifications Low-Frequency Transducer Diameter Voice Coil Diameter Sensitivity (1W@1m) Power Handling Frequency Range Magnet Type Diaphragm Diameter Horn Exit Diameter Diaphragm Material Sensitivity (1W@1m) Nominal Impedance Power Handling Frequency Range Magnet Type 10 in/250 mm 2.0 in/51 mm 96 dB 250 watts RMS, long-term 61 Hz - 3 kHz Ferrite 1.4 in/36 mm 1 in/25.4 mm Titanium 104 dB 16 ohms 75 watts RMS, long-term 1 kHz - 20 kHz Ferrite Disclaimer Since we are always striving to make our products better by incorporating new and improved materials, components, and manufacturing methods, we reserve the right to change these specifications at any time without notice. "Mackie" and the "Running Man" figure are registered trademarks of LOUD Technologies Inc. All other brand names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders, and are hereby acknowledged. ©2003 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved. High-Frequency Transducer 17 ACTIVE PROTECTION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SIGNAL LIGHT CONTOUR LIMITER A= +40 dB LIMIT LIGHT PEAK DETECTION 18 HI-PASS HI-FREQ LEVEL MIC/LINE INPUT XLR/TRS COMBO 2 XLR