5
Drive Units
The QBx 20 Monitor and QBx 15 Mini both use a 1-inch black-anodized aluminum dome
tweeter with a multifinned aluminum heatsink. The QBx 20 has a 6
1
/
2
-inch bass unit that has a
High Definition Aerogel cone. The QBx 15 has a 5
1
/
4
-inch bass unit made with the same cone
material.
The QBx Center uses the same tweeter as the QBx 20 Monitor and QBx 15 Mini. Bass is
provided by dual 4-inch bass units that have HDA cones and rubber surrounds.
All three models feature a video-shielded driver complement, providing unlimited placement
options.
HOW TO PLACE YOUR SPEAKER SYSTEMS
Front Speaker Separation
The distance between the front speakers determines the width of the stereo image. If the
speakers are placed too close together, the image will be too narrow; too far apart and the
blend will suffer, creating a hole in the middle. When properly placed, your speakers will create
a continuum of “virtual images” from left to right, with an illusion of sound outside, in front,
and behind the speaker systems.
We recommend an angular separation
of about 50 degrees (when viewed from
above). This is equivalent to a
separation between the speaker
systems that is about 85% of the
distance from the speakers to the
listener location.
Note: When the front speakers are part of a
home theater system that also has a center
channel speaker, the distance between the
front speakers can be somewhat greater
than what is recommended here.
Speaker Distance
Creation of sound between the speakers requires precise placement. The front left and right
speakers should both be the same distance from the listener location. We advise using a tape
measure to equalize these two distances to the primary listening position. The results will be
well worth the time and effort.
Aiming the Front Speakers
Your Snell speakers are designed to produce a very smooth response over as wide a range of
radiated angles as possible. Like all speakers of this type, the response evenness is maintained
over a wider horizontal arc than vertical (assuming the long box dimension is vertical). Take
this into account when placing and aiming your speakers.
If the speakers are mounted very high or very low, aim the center of the speaker toward
your ear level while listening in a seated position.
If this is not possible, it may be preferable to place the speakers on their sides.
Distance Between Speakers
Distance to Listening Ar
ea
50
°
