10
System 8200e/6200e High Performance Loudspeakers
Dipole/Bipole Operation of the SR Speakers
In Dipole mode the 8200e SR
and 4200e SR produces ambi-
ence with minimal localiza-
tion (best for most movies and
video soundtracks) and more
localizable sound in the Bipole
mode (preferred for some
music recordings). Switching
between Dipole and Bipole mode is easily accomplished using a toggle
switch conveniently located under one of the speaker’s grilles.
Please note that the vast majority of the time in movies and TV broadcasts
the surround speakers are called upon to reproduce the environmental
sounds that are used as cues to help get you immersed in the scene on the
screen. We strongly recommend that (if the speakers are properly positioned
directly to the sides or rear of the listening area) you set them to Dipole
mode, as this is undoubtedly the best and most practical way to create such
an involving and believable soundfield at home.
Setting Levels
When setting up a complete home theater we strongly recommend that you
use a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter. As of this writing Radio Shack® has
one that’s affordably priced (approximately $60) that can be used effectively.
To use this meter, turn on your system, put the processor/receiver in Test
Mode and set its main volume control to 0dB (or a reasonably loud level).
Sit in the prime listening position, set the SPL meter to the 70dB scale, slow
response, and C weighting. Hold the meter with the microphone pointed up,
towards the ceiling and in front of you. Cycle the test tone from speaker to
speaker, setting each to the same level (usually75dB) using the individual
level settings available in the processor/receiver (please see the instructions
for your processor/receiver if you are unsure of how to access the test signal
or level controls).
IMPORTANT NOTe:
The power recommendation for these speaker
components assumes that you will not operate your amplifier/receiver
in a way that produces distortion. Even rugged speakers like these
can be damaged by an amplifier driven beyond its capability. The
harsh amplifier distortion (“clipping”) that occurs in this situation will
eventually cause damage to the speaker system. This type of dam-
age may be cumulative and can build up over time, as the amplifier is
driven into overload again and again. Such damage is easily identifi-
able through examination of the damaged speaker’s voice coil and is
not covered by the warranty.
These systems will play very loudly when provided with enough undistorted
power to do so. If necessary, consult your dealer or Atlantic Technology for
additional information.
Mounting
System 8200e/6200e speakers can be mounted in different ways:
On Pedestals
Optionally available Atlantic Technology empty pedestals are
an attractive alternative in most rooms. They come in gloss black to match
the LR's or satin black to match the SR's (8200e SR only).
On the Wall (8200e SR and 4200e SR only)
To mount your speakers
on a wall, we have supplied metal key-hole brackets attached to the back
of the cabinet.
These speakers are heavy and care must be used when hanging them. Be
sure to use a strong screw to drive into the wall, one whose head and shaft
will fit within properly the keyhole opening and slot. Also be sure to drive
the screw directly into a stud or to use a mounting device (such a molly-bolt)
that is capable of safely holding the speaker’s weight. Never simply drive a
nail or screw into sheet rock or other wall materials. Always follow the above
guidelines for safe speaker mounting.
Caring for Your Speakers
Clean your cabinets using a soft lint-free cloth. If you wish, you can slightly
moisten the cloth with plain water. Do not use any other cleaning agents
or chemicals. Be careful not to get any water on the driver cones or tweeter
domes. After carefully removing the grilles from the speakers by pulling
them forward, gently clean them with a quick pass from a vacuum cleaner
with a brush attachment. This should remove any dust accumulation. Re-
attach them by lining up the magnet depressions in the back of the grilles
with the magnets on the speaker baffle and slowly moving them closer until
they connect with each other.
Avoid placing your speakers in direct sunlight or near a source of heat that
may, over time, damage the finish.
IMPORTANT: SAve YOUR BOXeS!
If you can do so, save the car-
tons, packing pieces, and plastic bags that came with your speakers.
They will be useful in case you move or have to ship your loudspeak-
ers for any reason. In any case, save all packing materials until you are
certain that the systems have suffered no damage in shipment. If you
find such damage, either visible or internal, contact your dealer imme-
diately for the proper return procedure.
DIPOLE
BIPOLE
Mounting