7
The MTS-4 performs within its acoustical specifications
and operates at a normal temperature if a given TPL
LED is on for no longer than two seconds, and off for at
least one second. If an LED remains on for longer than
three seconds, that channel is hard limiting with these
negative consequences:
• Increasing the input level will not increase the
volume.
• The system distorts due to clipping and nonlinear
driver operation.
• Unequal limiting between the drivers alters the
frequency response.
• Driver and amplifier components are subjected to
maximum heat, which shortens their life-span.
The TPL LEDs can indicate an imbalance in a system of
speakers by functioning like a spectrum analyzer. If
speakers in a subwoofer, mid-bass, or mid-hi subsystem
begin to limit before reaching the required operating
level for the entire system, then that subsystem needs to
be supplemented with additional speakers.
NOTE:
Although the TPL limiters exhibit smooth sonic
characteristics, we do not recommend using them for
intentional compression effects. Use an outboard
compressor/limiter to compress a mixed signal.
Fans and Cooling System
The MTS-4 uses a forced-air cooling system with four
fans to prevent the amplifiers from overheating. The
fans draw air in through ducts on the front of the cabinet,
over the heatsinks, and out the rear of the cabinet. Since
dust does not accumulate in the amplifier circuitry, its
life-span is increased significantly.
A foam insert filter, in combination with the entire front
grill surface, acts as an air filter for the cooling system.
Despite the filtering, extensive use or a dusty operating
environment can allow dust to accumulate along the
path of the airflow, preventing normal cooling. We
recommend periodically removing the grill, filter, and
amplifier module and using compressed air to clear
dust from the grill, filter, fans, and heatsinks. Make sure
that the air ducts are clear and that there is at least six
inches clearance for exhaust behind the cabinet.
Two variable-speed primary fans run continuously with
an inaudible operating noise of 22 dBA at 1 m at their
slowest speed. When the temperature of the heatsinks
reaches 42
°
C, the primary fans begin increasing their
speed, reaching full speed at 62
°
C . At full speed, they
are barely audible near the cabinet, even without an
audio signal.
In the unusual event that the heatsink temperature reaches
74
°
C, the secondary fans turn on; they turn off when the
temperature decreases to 68
°
C. The secondary fans are
audible at close proximity without an audio signal and
turn on in response to
• primary fan failure (check its status immediately);
• accumulation of dust in the cooling system path;
• a prolonged period of high source levels in hot
temperatures or direct sunlight;
• driver failure.
TROUBLESHOOTING NOTE:
In the highly unlikely event
that the secondary fans do not keep the temperature
below 85
°
C, the MTS-4 automatically shuts down until
AC power is removed and reapplied. If the MTS-4 shuts
down again after cooling and reapplying AC power,
contact Meyer Sound for repair information.
