Tannoy Reveal 502

Tannoy Reveal 502 5-inch Studio Monitor User Manual

Model: Reveal 502

1. Introduction

Welcome to the user manual for your Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor. This document provides essential information for the safe and optimal use of your device, ensuring you achieve the best possible audio performance. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the monitor and retain it for future reference.

2. Important Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the unit, please observe the following safety precautions:

  • Read Instructions: Read all safety and operating instructions before using the product.
  • Retain Instructions: Keep these instructions for future reference.
  • Heed Warnings: Adhere to all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
  • Follow Instructions: Follow all operating and use instructions.
  • Water and Moisture: Do not use this apparatus near water (e.g., bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, wet basement, or swimming pool).
  • Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
  • Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  • Power Cord Protection: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
  • Attachments: Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
  • Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
  • Power Source: Connect the product to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the product.

3. Package Contents

Please check the contents of your product box to ensure all items are present and in good condition:

  • Tannoy Reveal 502 Studio Monitor
  • Power Cable
  • Mini Jack Cable
  • Quick Start Guide (not included in this manual)

If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer immediately.

4. Product Overview

The Tannoy Reveal 502 is a 5-inch bi-amped compact studio reference monitor designed to deliver accurate and uncolored audio reproduction, making it ideal for mixing, mastering, and critical listening in personal and professional studio environments.

4.1 Front Panel Features

Front view of Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor

Image: Front view of the Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor, showcasing the 5-inch custom high-efficiency low-frequency driver (woofer), the 1-inch soft-dome 'Poke-Resistant' tweeter, and the front-firing bass port. The Tannoy logo is centrally located between the drivers.

  • 5-inch Woofer: Custom high-efficiency low-frequency driver for extended bass response.
  • 1-inch Tweeter: Soft-dome 'Poke-Resistant' tweeter for detailed high-frequency reproduction.
  • Front-Firing Bass Port: Allows for near-wall placement and ensures optimal low-frequency performance.

4.2 Rear Panel Features

Rear view of Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor

Image: Rear view of the Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor, displaying various input connectors, EQ and volume controls, the power switch, voltage selector, and the IEC power inlet.

  • Input Section: Includes balanced XLR, balanced 1/4" TRS, and unbalanced 1/8" AUX inputs.
  • EQ Controls: Adjustments for high-frequency response (HI BOOST, NEUTRAL, HI CUT) and speaker position compensation.
  • Volume Control: Rotary knob to adjust the output level of the monitor.
  • Power Switch: Toggles the monitor's power on and off.
  • Voltage Select: Switch to select between 100-120V and 220-240V operation.
  • IEC Power Inlet: For connecting the AC power cable.
  • Monitor Link: 1/8" jack for connecting two Reveal 502 units for stereo playback from a single source.

5. Setup

5.1 Placement

Proper placement is crucial for accurate monitoring. Position the monitors to form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. The tweeters should ideally be at ear level. Due to the front-firing bass port, the Reveal 502 can be placed closer to walls than monitors with rear-firing ports, offering flexibility in smaller studio spaces.

5.2 Power Connection

  1. Before connecting the power cable, ensure the Voltage Select switch on the rear panel is set to the correct voltage for your region (100-120V or 220-240V). Incorrect voltage selection can damage the unit.
  2. Ensure the monitor's power switch is in the OFF position.
  3. Connect the supplied power cable to the IEC power inlet on the rear panel of the monitor and then to a suitable AC power outlet.

5.3 Audio Connections

The Reveal 502 offers multiple input options:

  • Balanced Inputs (XLR and 1/4" TRS): For connecting to professional audio interfaces, mixers, or other balanced audio sources. Balanced connections help reduce noise over longer cable runs.
  • Unbalanced Input (1/8" AUX): For connecting consumer devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers using the supplied mini jack cable.
  • Monitor Link: If you are using two Reveal 502 monitors for stereo playback, connect the 1/8" output from your source to the AUX input of the first monitor. Then, use a 1/8" stereo cable to connect the MONITOR LINK output of the first monitor to the AUX input of the second monitor. This allows both monitors to receive the same stereo signal.

Always ensure your audio source is turned off or its volume is set to minimum before making connections to prevent sudden loud noises.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Powering On/Off

To power on the monitor, flip the Power Switch on the rear panel to the 'ON' position. The power LED on the front will illuminate. To power off, flip the switch to the 'OFF' position.

6.2 Volume Control

The Volume knob on the rear panel controls the output level of the monitor. It is recommended to start with the volume knob set to its minimum position (fully counter-clockwise) before playing audio, then gradually increase it to a comfortable listening level. Adjust the volume on your audio source first, then fine-tune with the monitor's volume control.

6.3 EQ Settings

The Reveal 502 features EQ controls to help tailor the monitor's sound to your listening environment:

  • HI BOOST / NEUTRAL / HI CUT: This switch adjusts the high-frequency response. Use NEUTRAL for a flat response. HI BOOST can be used to add clarity, while HI CUT can tame overly bright rooms or sources.
  • SPEAKER POSITION: This switch helps compensate for the monitor's placement. If the monitor is placed very close to a wall or in a corner, selecting the appropriate position setting can help maintain a more accurate bass response by reducing boundary effect build-up.

7. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Tannoy Reveal 502 monitor, follow these maintenance guidelines:

  • Cleaning: Disconnect the power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the cabinet. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents, as they may damage the finish.
  • Avoid Liquids: Keep liquids away from the monitor. If liquid spills into the unit, disconnect power immediately and have it checked by qualified service personnel.
  • Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not obstructed.
  • Storage: If storing the monitor for an extended period, keep it in a cool, dry place, preferably in its original packaging.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Tannoy Reveal 502, refer to the table below for common problems and solutions:

ProblemPossible Solution
No sound
  • Ensure the monitor is powered on and the power LED is lit.
  • Check all audio cables are securely connected to both the monitor and the audio source.
  • Verify the volume knob on the monitor and the audio source is turned up.
  • Ensure the correct input is selected on your audio source device.
Distorted sound
  • Reduce the input level from your audio source.
  • Lower the volume on the monitor.
  • Check for damaged audio cables and replace if necessary.
  • Ensure the audio source is not overdriving the input.
Hissing or unwanted noise
  • Ensure all cables are properly shielded and in good condition.
  • Try connecting the monitor and audio source to the same power outlet to avoid ground loops.
  • Disconnect input cables to determine if the noise originates from the source or the monitor.
  • Check for nearby electronic devices that might be causing interference.
No power
  • Check if the power cable is securely connected to both the monitor and the wall outlet.
  • Verify the wall outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
  • Ensure the voltage selector switch is set correctly for your region.

If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact qualified service personnel.

9. Specifications

Here are the key technical specifications for the Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor:

FeatureSpecification
Speaker TypeBi-Amped Studio Monitor
Total Power Output105 Watts
Low Frequency Driver5-inch custom high-efficiency woofer
High Frequency Driver1-inch soft-dome 'Poke-Resistant' tweeter
Connectivity TechnologyXLR, 1/4 inch TRS, 1/8 inch AUX
Input Voltage100-120V or 220-240V (selectable)
Audio Output ModeStereo (via Monitor Link)
Mounting TypeTabletop Mount
Dimensions (H x W x D)11.81" x 9.25" x 7.28" (300mm x 235mm x 185mm)
Item Weight13.7 pounds (6.2 kg)
Enclosure MaterialPlastic (Enclosure)

10. Warranty and Support

10.1 Warranty Information

For detailed information regarding the warranty for your Tannoy Reveal 502 studio monitor, please refer to the official warranty policy provided by the manufacturer. You can typically find this information on the manufacturer's website or through your authorized dealer. As a general reference, please visit: http://www.Music-group.Com/warranty.Aspx.

10.2 Technical Support

If you require technical assistance, have questions about your product, or need to report a fault, please contact Tannoy customer support or your local authorized Tannoy distributor. Contact information can usually be found on the official Tannoy website.

© 2024 Tannoy. All rights reserved.

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