Owner’s Manual - EXCELIA HIFI › revel › manual › revel-performa-f52.pdf · REVEL Performa F52 OWNER’S MANUAL 4 DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS This document contains general safety,

Revel Performa F52 Loudspeaker

Owner’s Manual

® ™

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

2

“Revel,” “Performa,” and the Revel logo are registeredtrademarks of Harman International Industries. U.S. patentnumbers and other worldwide patents issued and pending.

©2005 Harman Specialty Group.All rights reserved.

This document should not be construed as a commitment onthe part of Harman Specialty Group.The information itcontains is subject to change without notice. Harman SpecialtyGroup assumes no responsibility for errors that may appearwithin this document.

3 Oak ParkBedford, MA 01730-1413 USATelephone: 781-280-0300Fax: 781-280-0490www.revelspeakers.com

Customer SupportTelephone: 781-280-0300Sales Fax: 781-280-0495Service Fax: 781-280-0499

Part No. 353739-001 | Rev A | 02/05

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Documentation Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

About the F52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Highlights • Product Registration

Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Loudspeaker Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Driver Complement • Cabinet • Filter Network • Woofer Port •

Input Panel

Installation Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Loudspeaker Placement • Listening Room Acoustics •

Adjustable Spikes

Making Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Single-Wired Connections • Bi-Wired Connections • Vertical

Bi-Amplified Connections • Horizontal Bi-Amplified Connections

Optimizing Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Loudspeaker Volume Levels

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Dimensions & Weight

Obtaining Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

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DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONSThis document contains general safety, installation, and operation instructions for the RevelPerforma F52 Floor-Standing Loudspeaker. It is important to read this document beforeattempting to use this product. Pay particular attention to safety instructions.

Appears on the component to indicate the presence of uninsulated,dangerous voltage inside the enclosure—voltage that may be sufficientto constitute a risk of shock.

Appears on the component to indicate important operating andmaintenance instructions in the accompanying literature.

WARNING Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition, or the like that, ifnot correctly performed or adhered to, could result in injury or death.

CAUTION Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition, or the like that, ifnot correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to ordestruction of part or all of the product.

Note Calls attention to information that is essential to highlight.

This owner’s manual assumes that two F52s are included in the loudspeaker setup.

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OWNER’S MANUAL

ABOUT THE F52Thank you for purchasing the RevelPerforma F52 floorstanding Loudspeaker. Atrue full-range reproducer, the F52delivers an impressive combination of widefrequency range, uncompressed dynamicrange, and low distortion across the entireaudible spectrum. Five proprietarytransducers, sophisticated filter networks,and an acoustically inert cabinet allow theF52 to achieve acoustical precision andperformance befitting the most demandinghome entertainment systems.

The F52 features advanced woofer andmidrange motor structures that includetwo high-grade Neodymium magnetsplaced at the center of the motor structure,inside the voice coil, for improved magneticshielding. Inside the motors, black-platedsteel shield cups facilitate heat dissipationfor higher power handling. Integratedaluminum flux stabilization rings minimizemodulation inside the motor static gapflux fields, greatly reducing distortion.Copper rings inside each motor gapreduces distortion even further. Both ringsare optimally sized and placed to maintainconstant linear voice coil inductance withforward and backward cone motions.

Combining superior form and function,the F52 transducers feature a distinctivedesign that allows for smoother frequencyresponse. The woofer and midrange conesare constructed with Organic CeramicComposite cone material to reduce distortion,while the spiders are constructed with ahigh-strength Nomex blend with optimizedgeometry for increased linearity.

A three-way design, the F52 transducersaccurately reproduce the entire audiblespectrum. Three 6.5-inch (165mm) woofersdeliver highly refined and dynamicallyauthoritative low frequencies down to thevery lowest octaves. Housed in its ownsub-enclosure, a 5.25-inch (133mm)midrange handles critical mid-band

frequencies with natural tonal balanceover a wide operating range. A 1-inch(25mm) aluminum-dome tweeter,incorporating a custom-designed waveguide, blends perfectly with the midrangeand reproduces high frequencies wellabove audible levels. The tweeter is ventedfor improved cavity damping and low-frequency mechanical resonance.

High-order filters at 200Hz and 2.3kHzoptimize loudspeaker on and off-axisresponse, helping to ensure smooth octave-to-octave balance and timbral accuracy.Separate woofer, midrange, and tweeterfilter boards prevent mutual interferencebetween filter network components,dramatically reducing distortion over awide dynamic range. Separate LowFrequency Compensation and TweeterLevel switches allow precise adjustment forless-than-ideal listening room acousticsand loudspeaker placement. Removableshorting straps and gold-plated bindingposts accommodate single-wired, bi-wired,and bi-amplified connections.

The F52 cabinet is constructed with1-inch (25mm) thick walls and extensiveinternal bracing to reduce cabinet-inducedcolorations. Rounded baffle edges minimizediffraction and optimize off-axis responsefor smoother high-frequency reproduction.Adjustable spikes are attached to thebottom of the cabinet for optimal stability,accommodating installations on tile,hardwood, or carpeted floors. A sonicallyoptimized grille is also included.

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About the F52 (continued)

Since 1996, Revel has stood at the forefrontof loudspeaker design. Backed with HarmanInternational’s extensive research anddesign facilities, all Revel Loudspeakersbenefit from cutting-edge tools.

• A multi-channel listening lab allowsfor double-blind listening tests.

• A laser interferometer enablesdetailed driver and cabinet analysis.

• Multiple large anechoic chambersprovide precise tests and measurements.

• Finite element analysis producesadvanced loudspeaker modeling.

• A stereo lithography apparatus helpsto achieve tight tolerances.

Adding to the proud lineage of Revel’sUltima and Performa Series Loudspeakers,the F52 further advances Revel’s reputationas the leading designer and manufacturerof high-quality, high-performanceloudspeakers. Each F52 is individuallyhand-tuned during manufacturing tomatch the production reference standardwithin a fraction of a decibel, ensuringincomparable loudspeaker-to-loudspeakerconsistency. As a result, the F52 is an idealloudspeaker for the most demandinglisteners.

HIGHLIGHTS

• True full-range reproduction

• Three proprietary 6.5-inch (165mm)woofers with Organic CeramicComposite cones

• Proprietary 5.25-inch (133mm)midrange with Organic CeramicComposite cone

• Proprietary 1-inch (25mm) aluminumdome tweeter incorporating a propri-etary wave-guide

• High output with low distortion

• Separate filter boards for each frequencyrange

• Adjustable low frequency compensation

• Adjustable calibrated tweeter level

• Advanced woofer and midrange motorstructure

• Magnetic shielding

• Large voice coils for wide dynamicrange without compression

• Hand-tuned to match the productionreference standard within a fraction ofa decibel

• Adjustable spikes

• Elegant cabinet design in real woodveneer finishes

• Removable gold-plated shorting straps

• Gold-plated binding posts.

PRODUCT REGISTRATION

Please register the F52 within 15 days ofpurchase. To do so, register online atwww.revelspeakers.com or complete andreturn the included product registrationcard. Retain the original, dated salesreceipt as proof of warranty coverage.

7

UNPACKINGThe F52 requires special care and handlingduring unpacking. Pay particular attentionto the precautions that appear in this sec-tion and throughout this owner’s manual.

WARNING

Do not attempt to lift or move the F52alone. Proper lifting requires at leasttwo strong people.When lifting theF52, keep your back as straight as possi-ble using the leg muscles to lift.Whenmoving the F52, rock it side-to-side intothe desired position. Failure to followthese procedures may result in person-al injuries and/or loudspeaker damage.

To unpack the F52:

1. Place the packing carton on its sideand fully open the top flaps as shownin figure 1 (below).

2. Without allowing the top flaps to close,stand the packing carton in an invertedposition as shown in Figure 1 (below).

3. Lift the packing carton off of theloudspeaker. Use caution to avoid

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

TOP

BOTTOM

TOP

2

BOTTOM

1

BOTTOM

TOP

3

Width: 16.63 inches (42.24 cm)Length: 28 inches (71.12 cm)Depth: 49.63 inches (1.26 m)

Carton Dimensions

Figure 1: Unpacking the F52

damaging the loudspeaker cabinetand objects located above thepacking carton. At this point, theloudspeaker will be upsidedown.

4. Remove the grille from the backmiddle pad. Then remove thebottom pad and the front and backmiddle pads. These items areidentified in Figure 2 (next page).

Note

While the loudspeaker is upside-down, it

is recommended to adjust the spikes if

the F52 will be placed on a carpeted

floor. Refer to the “Adjustable Spikes”

section for instructions.

5. Grasping the sides of the cabinet, placethe F52 on its side. Then place the F52in the upright position without allow-ing the protective bag identified inFigure 2 (right) to become “stuck”under the spikes.

6. When the F52 is in the upright posi-tion, remove the protective bag.

Save all packing materials for possiblefuture shipping needs.

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LOUDSPEAKER OVERVIEW

Top Pad

FrontMiddle Pad

Protective Bag

Bottom Pad

Back Middle Pad

Grille

Figure 2: Packing Materials

DRIVER COMPLEMENT

The numbers in Figure 3 (next page)correspond with the numbered items inthis section.

1. Proprietary 1-inch (25mm) aluminumdome tweeter incorporating a propri-etary wave-guide.

2. Proprietary 5.25-inch (133mm)midrange with Organic CeramicComposite cone.

3. Three proprietary 6.5-inch (165mm)woofers with Organic CeramicComposite cones.

CABINET

Reduces cabinet-induced colorations with1-inch (25mm) thick walls and extensive

internal bracing. Adjustable spikes areattached to the bottom of the cabinet foroptimal stability, accommodatinginstallations on tile, hardwood, andcarpeted floors.

The cabinet’s wood veneer finish does notrequire routine maintenance. Cabinetsurfaces that have been marked with dust,fingerprints, or other dirt can be cleanedusing a soft cloth and a high-qualityfurniture polish. Use a high-quality waxfor a higher-gloss finish.

• To clean the cabinet, apply furniturepolish to a soft cloth; then use the clothto lightly wipe the cabinet surface.

• To clean the grille, gently vacuumusing a soft-bristled brush vacuumattachment.

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OWNER’S MANUAL

Figure 3: F52 Loudspeaker (Front View)

The numbers in Figure 3 (above) correspond with the

numbered items in the “Driver Complement” section on

this page.

Cabinet

3

2

1

CAUTION

To prevent cabinet damage, do not usea cloth made with steel wool or metalpolish to clean the cabinet.To preventpossible transducer damage, do notapply furniture polish directly to thecabinet.

FILTER NETWORK

Optimize loudspeaker on and off-axisresponse with high-order filters at 200Hzand 2.3kHz, helping to ensure smoothoctave-to-octave balance and timbralaccuracy. Separate woofer, midrange, andtweeter filter boards prevent mutualinterference between filter networkcomponents, dramatically reducingdistortion over a wide dynamic range.Removable shorting straps and gold-platedbinding posts accommodate single-wired,bi-wired, and bi-amplified connections,while separate Low FrequencyCompensation and Tweeter Level switchesprovide precise balance to compensate forless-than-ideal listening room acousticsand loudspeaker placement.

WOOFER PORT

Enhances low-frequency extension.Computer-optimized internal and externalflares minimize distortion resulting fromair turbulence. The woofer port is identifiedin Figure 4 (next page).

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INPUT PANEL

The numbers in Figure 4 (below) correspondwith the numbered items in this section.

1. Low Frequency CompensationSwitch

Compensates for less-than-idealloudspeaker placement near a wall, inan entertainment center, or in a roomthat “boosts” low frequencies.

• Select the Normal setting if theloudspeaker is located at least 3 feet(0.91m) from walls and other largeobjects.

• Select the Contour setting to reducelow-frequency signal levels.

• Select the Boundary setting if theloudspeaker is built into anentertainment center or shelvingunit or if the loudspeaker is locatedless than about 2 feet (0.61m) fromwalls or other large objects.

ContourNormal Boundary

Low FrequencyCompensation

Low Frequency Input

Remove strapsfor bi-wireor bi-amp High Frequency Input

Tweeter Level(dB)

RevelNorthridge, CaliforniaAssembled in U.S.A.

Serial No.

-1 +1

+5-5 0



Tweeter Level(dB)

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

1 2

Low Frequency Input



Serial No.

4

3

3

Input Panel

WooferPort

4

Figure 4: F52 Loudspeaker (Rear View)

The numbers in Figure 4 (shown here) correspond with the

numbered items in the “Input Panel” section that begins

on this page.

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2. Tweeter Level (dB) Switch

Alters tweeter output levels by –1, –0.5,0, +0.5, or +1dB.

Note

Refer to the “Optimizing Performance”

section for more information about the

Low Frequency Compensation and Tweeter

Level switches.

3. Input Terminals

Provide high and low-frequencyconnections from the associated poweramplifier(s). One pair of high-frequencyand one pair of low-frequency gold-plated binding posts are available. Theinput terminals can be configured for single-wired, bi-wired, or bi-amplifiedconnections. Refer to the “MakingConnections” section for additionalinformation.

4. Shorting Straps

Accommodate single-wired, bi-wired,and bi-amplified connections. Twogold-plated shorting straps are installedfor single-wired connections. Theshorting straps must be removed whenthe input terminals are configured forbi-wired or bi-amplified connections.Refer to the “Making Connections”section for additional information.

INSTALLATIONCONSIDERATIONSLoudspeaker fidelity depends on thefollowing three factors:

1. Loudspeaker accuracy

2. Loudspeaker placement

3. Listening room acoustics

Advanced Revel design features allow theF52 to achieve exceptional acousticalprecision. Each F52 is individually hand-tuned during manufacturing to match theproduction reference standard within afraction of a decibel, ensuring incomparableloudspeaker-to-loudspeaker consistency. Asa result, experimenting with loudspeakerplacement and listening room acousticshave the most significant impact on theF52’s performance.

LOUDSPEAKER PLACEMENT

The bulleted items that begin belowindicate important loudspeaker placementconsiderations for the F52.

• Remove all obstructions between theF52 and the primary listening position.For instance, a coffee table between theF52 and the primary listening positionwill degrade stereo imaging and tim-bre. Placing the F52s near large objectsmay also cause unwanted reflections.

• For the best stereo imaging, place theF52s at equal distances from theprimary listening position and the sidewalls as shown in Figure 5 (next page).

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Loudspeaker Placement (continued)

• For optimal stereo imaging and timbre,point the F52s almost directly towardthe primary listening position asshown in Figure 5 (right). The toe-inangle can be reduced to widen thesoundstage, even to the point at whichthe F52s are pointing straight forward.

• Move the F52s farther from the frontand side listening room walls toimprove stereo imaging and the senseof spaciousness in the listening space.

• Move the F52s closer to the corners orwalls of the listening room to increasebass response.

LISTENING ROOM ACOUSTICS

Listening rooms have a profound impacton sound, particularly at lower frequencies.In fact, listening rooms can dominatesounds below about 400Hz. Ideally,listening rooms would include optimizeddimensional ratios to minimize the effectsof room resonances. But in reality, mostlistening rooms are not designed toenhance loudspeaker performance.

The interaction between loudspeakers andlistening rooms is complex, depending ontwo important determinants that affect theloudspeaker and the listener.

1. Surfaces and other boundaries oftencause large peaks and dips in low-frequency extension. These peaks anddips often range 12dB or more.

2. Standing waves (also known as roommodes or resonances) interact withboth the loudspeaker and the listener,resulting in large frequency responseerrors.

Unfortunately, there is no simple solutionthat considers both factors. Even computersoftware programs that examine one orboth factors may not calculate properprimary listening position or loudspeakerplacement values.

In most cases, proper selection of theprimary listening position combined withproper placement of the loudspeaker canstill result in superior performance at lowerfrequencies. The difference between superiorand inferior results is often just a smalladjustment of the primary listening positionor loudspeaker placement. Contact anauthorized Revel dealer for assistance.

Primary Listening Position (Couch)

Acoustic Treatment Materials

F52(Left)

Front Wall

F52(Right)

Figure 5: Loudspeaker Placement

13

Acoustic Treatment Materials

The F52 features high-order filters at220Hz and 2.3kHz that optimize loudspeakeron-axis and off-axis response, minimizingdegradations that occur in overly “live”rooms. Placing minimal acoustic treatmentmaterials at primary reflection points willreduce these distortions even further.Ideally, acoustic absorbers should beplaced at the first reflection points on thefront and side walls and either acousticabsorbers or diffusers should be placed atthe first reflection point on the rear wall.

Because the listener’s eyes and ears areon the same plane, the “mirror method”is an accurate determinant of criticalreflection points. This method can be usedto determine reflection points for side walls,rear walls, front walls, and even the ceiling.Applying acoustic treatment materials tothe side walls is most important, followedby the front wall, rear wall, and ceiling.

To determine reflection points using themirror method:

1. Once the F52s have been placed, sit inthe primary listening position and askanother person to slide a mirror alongthe listening room walls.

2. Note the locations at which the personsitting in the primary listening positioncan see either F52. Be sure to look forboth F52s in the reflection on eachroom boundary. These are reflectionpoints that require acoustic treatmentmaterials.

If acoustic treatment materials are notavailable, hanging a rug over the reflectionpoints will help reduce degradation inoverly “live” rooms. Carpeting the floorbetween the loudspeakers and the primarylistening position and placing irregularsurfaces such as bookcases at first reflectionpoints will also help minimize strongreflections.

ADJUSTABLE SPIKES

When shipped, adjustable spikes areattached to the bottom of the cabinet foroptimal stability, accommodatinginstallations on tile, hardwood, andcarpeted floors. The F52 is shipped withspikes attached as shown on the left side ofFigure 6 (next page), with the round endprotruding from the cabinet. The protectivecap is placed over the round end to protecttile and hardwood floors.

Note

When moving the F52, avoid dragging it

across the floor.

If the F52 is placed on a carpeted floor, thespikes should be adjusted as shown on theright side of Figure 6 (next page), with thesharp end protruding from the cabinet. Ifneeded, follow the instructions that beginbelow to adjust the spikes.

To adjust the spikes:

1. Place the F52 on its side on a soft towelor carpeted floor.

2. Remove the protective cap from theround end of the spike. Save it forpossible future use.

3. Rotate the locking ring counterclockwiseto detach it from the spike. Save it foruse in step 6.

4. Rotate the spike counterclockwise toremove it from the cabinet.

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

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OWNER’S MANUAL

14

Adjustable Spikes (continued)

5. Rotate the spike clockwise into thecabinet, round end first, as shown onthe right side of Figure 6 (below).

6. Reattach the locking ring, rotating itclockwise to firmly secure the spike tothe cabinet.

7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 for theremaining three spikes. In step 6, makesure to thread each locking ring toachieve a level balance.

8. When all four spikes have beenreversed, stand the F52 in the uprightposition. If needed, repeat steps 1 and6 to achieve a level balance.

9. Repeat these steps to adjust the spikeson the other F52.

CAUTION

Floor-standing loudspeakers such as theF52 have a high center of gravity, whichmay cause them to fall if tipped orimproperly positioned.To avoid this,anchor the loudspeaker to the floorand/or wall using the same proceduresand hardware used to anchor bookcases,wall units, and other furniture. HarmanSpecialty Group assumes no responsibilityfor proper selection and installation ofhardware or for any personal injuries orproduct damages resulting from improperinstallation or a fallen loudspeaker.

Locking Ring

F52

Round End(Protective CapAttached)

Locking Ring

Round End

Spike End

Protective Cap

Spike End

Spike EndRound End(Protective Cap Removed)

When shipped, the spikesare attached as shown herefor loudspeaker placement ontile or hardwood floors.

The spikes should beattached as shown herefor loudspeaker placement oncarpeted floors.

Figure 6: Adjustable Spikes

15

MAKINGCONNECTIONSThe F52 features gold-plated binding postsand shorting straps that allow it to beconfigured for single-wired, bi-wired, orbi-amplified connections.

CAUTION

• Never make or break connectionsunless all system components arepowered off.

• Remove the shorting straps identifiedin Figure 4 before making bi-wired orbi-amplified connections. Failure to doso may cause damage to some poweramplifiers.

Before making connections, note thefollowing:

• The standard connection method usesa single loudspeaker wire. The F52 isequipped with two pairs of inputterminals to allow for bi-wiring orbi-amplification. While Revel does notendorse one particular connectionmethod over another, these additionalconnection options are available ifdesired. The design of this loudspeakeris such that optimal performance canbe attained using the standardconnection method.

• Make all connections observing theproper polarity, positive-to-positive (+)and negative-to-negative (–).Connections that do not observe theproper polarity will cause poor stereoimaging and diminished bass response.

• Use high-quality loudspeaker cablewith a maximum total loop resistanceof 0.07ohms or less (for each wire run).Refer to the table at the top below todetermine the appropriate maximumwire gauge.

Maximum Wire Gauge

Gauge Length Length(AWG) (Feet) (Meters)

6 87 27

7 69 21

8 58 18

9 43 13

10 34 10

11 27 8

12 22 7

13 17 5

14 14 4

15 11 3

16 9 3

17 7 2

18 5 2

Note

High loop resistances that exceed 0.07Ω(for each wire run) will cause the filter

network to be mis-terminated, resulting in

considerable degradation of sound quality.

• Vertical bi-amplified connections mustbe made with identical power amplifiers.Horizontal bi-amplified connectionscan be made with identical or non-identical power amplifiers withidentical gain factors.

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

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OWNER’S MANUAL

SINGLE-WIRED CONNECTIONS

Single-wired connections are the mostcommon. These are made between onepair of F52 input terminals and one poweramplifier output channel as shown inFigure 7 (right).

To make single-wired connections:

1. Connect one pair of loudspeaker wiresto the desired F52 input terminals.Then connect the same pair ofloudspeaker wires to the desired poweramplifier output channel. (The high-frequency input terminals arerecommended.)

2. Repeat step 1 to connect the second F52to a separate power amplifier outputchannel.

16

Making Connections (continued)

• When making bi-amplified connections,both power amplifiers must receiveidentical input signals from theassociated preamplifier. A “Y” adaptoris required if the associated preamplifierdoes not offer two connectors per outputchannel. Otherwise, each poweramplifier can be connected to aseparate connector for the same outputchannel of the preamplifier.

• If desired, contact an authorized Reveldealer for information about thesuitability of power amplifier compo-nents before connecting the F52 to theassociated power amplifier.

• Review the owner’s manuals forassociated audio components todetermine their connection procedures.

OUTPUT



Low Frequency Input


Tweeter Level(dB)


Serial No.

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

POWERAMPLIFIER

F52

Figure 7: Single-Wired Connections

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17

OUTPUT

POWERAMPLIFIER



Low Frequency Input


Tweeter Level(dB)


Serial No.

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

F52

Figure 8: Bi-Wired ConnectionsBI-WIRED CONNECTIONS

Bi-wired connections are made betweenboth pairs of F52 input terminals and onepower amplifier output channel as shownin Figure 8 (right).

To make bi-wired connections:

1. Remove the shorting straps identifiedin Figure 4.

2. Connect one pair of loudspeaker wiresto the high-frequency pair of F52 inputterminals. Then connect the same pairof loudspeaker wires to the desiredpower amplifier output channel.

3. Connect another pair of loudspeakerwires to low-frequency pair of F52input terminals. Then connect thesame pair of loudspeaker wires to thesame power amplifier output channelthat was selected in step 2.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to connect bothinput terminals on the second F52 to aseparate power amplifier output channel.

VERTICAL BI-AMPLIFIED CONNECTIONS

Vertical bi-amplified connections are made between both pairs of F52 input terminals and twoseparate power amplifier output channels. Each F52 is connected to its own power amplifier,which sometimes increases sonic performance. These power amplifiers must be identical.Vertical bi-amplified connections are shown in Figure 9 (next page).

Note

When making vertical bi-amplified connections, both power amplifiers must receive identical input

signals from the associated preamplifier. A “Y” adaptor is required if the associated preamplifier

does not offer two connectors per output channel. Otherwise, each power amplifier can be

connected to a separate connector for the same output channel of the preamplifier.

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Vertical Bi-Amplified Connections

(continued)

To make vertical bi-amplifiedconnections:



OUTPUT 1

POWERAMPLIFIER 1

OUTPUT 2



Low Frequency Input


Tweeter Level(dB)


Serial No.

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

F52(FRONT RIGHT)

OUTPUT 1

POWERAMPLIFIER 2

OUTPUT 2



Low Frequency Input


Tweeter Level(dB)


Serial No.

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

F52(FRONT LEFT)

Figure 9: Vertical Bi-Amplified Connections

Verticalbi-amplifiedconnections

requireIDENTICAL

poweramplifiers!

3. Connect another pair of loudspeakerwires to the low-frequency pair of F52input terminals. Then connect thesame pair of loudspeaker wires to aseparate output channel on the samepower amplifier.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to connect bothinput terminals on the second F52 toanother, identical power amplifier.

Note

Vertical bi-amplified connections must be

made using two identical power amplifiers.

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OWNER’S MANUAL

HORIZONTAL BI-AMPLIFIEDCONNECTIONS

Horizontal bi-amplified connections aremade between both pairs of F52 inputterminals and two separate output channelson two separate power amplifiers. Thehigh-frequency pair of F52 input terminalsis connected to one power amplifier, whilethe low-frequency pair is connected toanother power amplifier.

These power amplifiers can be identical ornon-identical, but must have identical gainfactors. If the gain factors are not identical,a means of adjusting the input level of at

OUTPUT 1

POWERAMPLIFIER 1

OUTPUT 2



Low Frequency Input


Tweeter Level(dB)


Serial No.

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

F52(FRONT RIGHT)

OUTPUT 1

POWERAMPLIFIER 2

OUTPUT 2



Low Frequency Input


Tweeter Level(dB)


Serial No.

-1 +1

+.5-.5 0

F52(FRONT LEFT)

Figure 10: Horizontal Bi-Amplified Connections

least one power amplifier is required.Horizontal bi-amplified connections areshown in Figure 10 (below).

Note

When making horizontal bi-amplified

connections, both power amplifiers must

receive identical input signals from the

associated preamplifier. A “Y” adaptor is

required if the associated preamplifier

does not offer two connectors per output

channel. Otherwise, each power amplifier

can be connected to a separate connector

for the same output channel of the

preamplifier.

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20

Horizontal Bi-Amplified

Connections (continued)

To make horizontal bi-amplifiedconnections:



3. Connect another pair of loudspeakerwires to the low-frequency pair of F52input terminals. Then connect thesame pair of loudspeaker wires to thedesired output channel on anotherpower amplifier.

Note

Horizontal bi-amplified connections can

be made using identical or non-identical

power amplifiers. However, these power

amplifiers must have identical gain

factors. If the gain factors are not

identical, a means of adjusting the input

level of at least one power amplifier is

required. Contact an authorized Revel

dealer for assistance.

4. Repeat step 2 to connect the high-frequency pair of F52 input terminalson the second F52 to the same poweramplifier that was selected in step 2.

5. Repeat step 3 to connect the low-frequency pair of F52 input terminalson the second F52 to the same poweramplifier that was selected in step 3.

OPTIMIZINGPERFORMANCE

To optimize the F52 for best performance:

1. Set the Tweeter Level switch to 0.(Different listening rooms may requireother settings.)

2. Set the Low Frequency Compensationswitch to the appropriate position.

• Select the Normal setting if theloudspeaker is located at least 3feet (0.91m) from walls.

• Select the Contour setting to reducelow-frequency signal levels. Thissetting is useful for applications inwhich the loudspeakers cannot beoptimally placed, or where roomacoustics result in excessive low-frequency level. Such conditionsare common with stiff roomconstruction, such as concrete orbrick. The Contour setting cannotperfectly counteract such conditions,but in may cases can significantlyimprove the overall spectralbalance.

• Select the Boundary setting if theloudspeaker is built into anentertainment center or shelvingunit or if the loudspeaker is locatedless than about 2 feet (0.61m) fromwalls and other objects.

3. Begin playback of a familiar music orfilm source.

4. Listen from the primary listeningposition, increasing volume to acomfortable level.

21

5. Experiment with the F52’s placementto achieve the best overall tonalbalance, image precision, and sense ofspaciousness in the listening room.Refer to the “Loudspeaker Placement”section for additional informationabout loudspeaker placement.

6. Adjust the Tweeter Level switch oneach F52 to change high-frequencybalance and timbre.

7. Repeat these steps to optimizeperformance of the second F52.

Note

For best results, set the Tweeter Level

switch on both F52s to the same position.

LOUDSPEAKER VOLUME LEVELS

High-order filters include steep cut-offs toreduce potential damage from “out-of-band” frequencies. Combined with carefullyselected transducers and filter networkcomponents, this approach helps the F52to maintain its performance underextreme operating conditions.

However, all loudspeakers have limitswhen it comes to continuous playback. Toextend these limits, avoid playback atvolume levels that distort or strain sound.

CAUTION

To avoid damage, reduce volume levelimmediately if loudspeaker sound is notclean and clear.

SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT

Width: 9.5 inches (24.13cm)

Height: 43.94 inches (111.61cm)

Depth: 17.5 inches (44.45 cm) withgrille

17 inches (43.18cm) withoutgrille

Weight: 87.70 pounds (39.78kg) withgrille

86.20 pounds (39.10kg) withoutgrille

Specifications are subject tochange without notice.

Note

Other specifications are listed on the next

page.

OBTAINING SERVICETo obtain warranty or non-warranty service,contact an authorized Revel dealer. Refer tothe included Revel warranty card forwarranty information.

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

DefinitionSpecification Value

REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

22

Sensitivity

Impedance

87.5dB SPL with 2.83Vrms@1 meter (4 pi anechoic)

• 6.5Ω (nominal)

• 3.5Ω (minimum @373Hz)

Indicates the amount of power the associated power amplifiermust deliver to drive the loudspeaker at reasonable volumelevels. Conservatively-rated specifications indicate moderatesensitivity, meaning that a massive power amplifier is notrequired to drive Revel loudspeakers to reasonable volumelevels in large listening spaces.

Indicates whether the loudspeaker presents a “difficult” or“easy” load on the associated power amplifier. Combinedwith moderate phase angles, a minimal impedancespecification of 3.5Ω allows a reasonably designed poweramplifier to drive Revel loudspeakers.

Filter Network • Three-way, high-orderacoustic response @200Hz and 2.3kHz

Indicates the acoustical characteristics of the filter network.Steep filters indicate an optimized filter network thatproduces minimal acoustical interference, low distortion,and expansive dynamic range. Revel’s filter networksare mounted on printed circuit boards with carefully selectedcomponents. Woofer, midrange, and tweeter filter boardsare independent of one another. Each includes provisionsfor single-wired, bi-wired, and bi-amplified connections aswell as flexible controls for user adjustments.

Target Response • ±0.5dB from 31Hz to20Hz

Indicates sound quality in context with the individualloudspeaker’s application, considering the acoustical impactof its placement. An ideal response goal, a target responseis not flat at either end of the audible spectrum and is usedwhen the ideal reference is not a flat line.

In-Room Response • ±0.5dB from 33Hz to18kHz

Indicates sound quality in context with other specifications.A breakthrough measurement, this specification closelycorrelates to sound quality in a single curve—a long-standinggoal of loudspeaker engineers.

In-room response is measured through the use of largeanechoic chambers. The loudspeaker’s response is measuredevery 10 degrees, horizontally and vertically, for a total of72 response measurements.

The in-room response curve is a prediction of how theloudspeaker would measure in a typical room. Researchand observation reveals that ubiquitous on-axis responsecurves cannot distinguish between two loudspeakers withradically different sound qualities.

First ReflectionsResponse

• ±0.5dB from 33Hz to17kHz

Indicates the response listeners hear in relation to the firstreflections from walls, ceilings, and floors. This specificationindicates that Revel loudspeakers will remain accurate,even in listening rooms that cast strong reflections.

Listening WindowResponse

• ±1.0dB from 38Hz to18kHz

Indicates the on-axis response of the loudspeaker. Animproved on-axis measurement, this specification reducesthe visual confusion of inaudible interference. It retains fullaccuracy without using “spectral smoothing,” which resultsin significant data loss.

Low-FrequencyExtension

• –10dB @ 23Hz

• –6dB @ 26Hz

• –3dB @ 37Hz

Indicates the low-frequency response of the loudspeaker.Studies have shown that the –10dB specification bestcorrelates to controlled listening tests. At low frequencies,most loudspeaker and listening room combinationsdemonstrate significant room gain, which produces anincrease in levels as frequencies decrease. Unlike the –3dBspecification, the –10dB specification reflects the steepnessof low-frequency roll-offs.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

23REVEL Performa F52

OWNER’S MANUAL

INDEX

A–C

about the F52 5–6

acoustic treatment materials13

adjustable spikes 5, 7, 8,13–14

bass response 12

bi-amplified connections 5, 9,11, 15, 16, 17–20, 22

bi-wired connections 5, 9, 11,15, 17, 22

binding posts 5, 9, 11, 15 (see

also input terminals)

boundary setting 10, 20

cabinet 5, 6, 7, 8, 9–10, 13, 14

care and maintenance 8

CAUTION 4, 9, 14, 15, 21

cones 5

connections

bi-amplified connections 5,9, 11, 15, 16, 17–20, 22

bi-wired connections 5, 9,11, 15, 17, 22

horizontal bi-amplifiedconnections 15, 19–20

making connections 15–20

single-wired connections 5,9, 11, 15, 16, 22

vertical bi-amplifiedconnections 15, 17–18

contour setting 10, 20

D–G

dimensions 21

driver complement 8

F52, about the 5–6

filter network 5, 9, 15, 21, 22

first reflections response 22

grille 5, 7, 8, 21

H–I

high-frequency input terminals11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20

highlights, F52 6

horizontal bi-amplifiedconnections 15, 19–20

impedance 22

in-room response 22

input panel 10

input terminals

high-frequency 11, 15, 16,17, 18, 19, 20

low-frequency 11, 15, 17, 18,19, 20

(see also binding posts)

installation considerations 5,8, 11–14

listening room acoustics 5, 9,11, 12–13, 20, 22

listening window response 22

loudspeaker overview 8–11

loudspeaker placement 5, 9,10, 11–12, 21, 22

loudspeaker volume levels21, 22

loudspeaker wires 15, 16, 17,18, 20

low frequency compensationswitch 5, 9, 10, 11, 20

low-frequency input terminals11, 17, 18, 19, 20

L–N

making connections 15–20

maximum wire gauge 15

midrange 5, 8, 9, 22

mirror method 13

motor structure 5

normal setting 10, 20

Note 4, 7, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18,19, 20, 21

O–R

obtaining service 21

off-axis response 5, 9, 13

on-axis response 5, 9, 13, 22

optimizing performance20–21

packing materials 7

power amplifiers 11, 15, 16,17, 18, 19, 20, 22

preamplifiers 16, 17, 19

product registration 6

reflection points 11, 13, 22

room modes/resonances 12

S–W

sensitivity 22

shorting straps 5, 9, 11, 15,17, 18, 20

single-wired connections 5, 9,11, 15, 16, 22

specifications 21–22

spikes, adjustable 5, 7, 8,13–14

table of contents 3

target response 22

tweeter 5, 8, 9, 11, 22

tweeter level switch 5, 9, 11,20, 21

unpacking 7–8

vertical bi-amplifiedconnections 15, 17–18

WARNING 4, 7

warranty card 6, 21

weight 21

wire gauge, maximum 15

woofers 5, 8, 9, 22

woofer port 9

3 Oak Park, Bedford, MA, 01730-1413 USA | Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Fax: 781-280-0490 | www.revelspeakers.com

Customer Support: Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Sales Fax: 781-280-0495 | Service Fax: 781-280-0499

Please contact Customer Support for information about product shipments.

Part No. 353739-001 | Rev A | 02/05

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