SCREENING
Loudspeaker drive units contain large magnets. These are capable of generating a
substantial magnetic field extending a considerable distance beyond the sidewalls of the
speaker enclosure. This field will cause picture distortion if the speakers are placed too
close to the TV. With many home cinema loudspeaker products steps are taken to shield
the drivers with the installation of a heavy steel cup around the magnet assembly. In most
cases this will prevent any problems, but it should be borne in mind that some TV designs
are more sensitive to magnetic field than others.
It is therefore recommended that the front (left and right) speakers are positioned at least
0.6 metres (20 inches) to each side of the television screen.
Centre channel speakers, which are designed for mounting directly on top of the TV, often
have an additional steel plate inserted into the bottom of the enclosure to avoid any
interaction with the screen.
FRONT SPEAKERS
The main speaker pair provides much of the delivery of the front soundstage; they should
therefore be large enough to handle the power output and dynamics required. Stand
mounted speakers can be used for this purpose but the power handling and extra bass
extension achievable from floor standing models will add greatly to the overall assurance
of the performance. The speakers should be positioned either side of the TV or projection
screen placed in line with the screen surface.
CENTRE CHANNEL SPEAKERS
As the main effects speaker for the front soundstage, the critical factor in its performance
is placement. In all cases the centre channel speaker should be placed as near to the TV
screen as possible; effective shielding will allow placement on top of the TV itself. If the
shape of the top of the TV casing will not allow a stable placement it can be shelf mounted
just above. The viewing position when seated determines the ideal mounting height, but
in all cases this should be as close as possible to ear height
As with the main speakers the front baffle panel should be as near as possible in line with
the screen surface.
REAR EFFECTS SPEAKERS
The integrity of the special effects soundstage created by the source material will be
compromised if the speakers are installed on the sidewalls, for that reason they should
always be placed behind the main viewing position.
The placement of floor standing speakers at the rear should mirror as near as possible
the location of the front pair and 0.5 metres (20 inches) from the rear wall. Wall-mounted
loudspeakers should be shelf or bracket mounted 1.5 to 4.5 metres (5ft to 15ft) apart with
a height mounting height range of 1.5 to 2 metres (5ft to 7ft).
SUBWOOFER
As the subwoofer only produces low frequency, therefore monaural information, it is difficult
to detect its location by ear. It could as a result be situated anywhere in the room, but
optimum performance will be gained by locating the subwoofer between the main stereo
pair of speakers. Bass output will increase when placed next to a wall or in a corner so
use the subwoofer volume control to balance the output with the rest of the system.
For best results on a carpeted floor, screw the spikes provided into the threaded inserts
underneath the cabinet, and adjust until level then tighten the lock nuts firmly but without
undue force. On a polished wooden floor use the discs, included in the accessory pack,
under the spike points to prevent damage to the surface.
7
Saturn Range
