Focal Chora 826 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Focal Chora 826 3-Way Bass Reflex Floorstanding Loudspeaker. Please read these instructions thoroughly before using your loudspeaker to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The Focal Chora 826 is a high-fidelity 3-way floorstanding loudspeaker designed to deliver balanced and precise midranges, articulated bass, and a wide soundstage. It features Focal's exclusive Slatefiber cone technology and an aerodynamic front port for enhanced bass impact.

Figure 1: Front view of the Focal Chora 826 loudspeaker without its protective grille, highlighting the drivers and bass port.

2. Safety Instructions

To prevent damage and ensure safe operation, observe the following safety guidelines:

• Placement: Position the loudspeaker on a stable, level surface to prevent tipping. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with high humidity.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate air circulation around the loudspeaker. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Power: Connect the loudspeaker to an appropriate amplifier. Do not exceed the recommended power handling capacity (up to 250 Watts).
• Cleaning: Disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
• Foreign Objects: Do not insert objects into any openings of the loudspeaker.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service the loudspeaker yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Unpacking and Contents

Carefully remove the loudspeaker from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage. The package should contain:

• Focal Chora 826 Floorstanding Loudspeaker (Model: FCHORA826LW-KL)
• Protective Grille
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Figure 2: Front view of the Focal Chora 826 loudspeaker with its protective grille in place.

4. Setup

4.1 Placement

Optimal placement is crucial for achieving the best sound quality from your Chora 826 loudspeakers. Consider the following:

• Room Acoustics: Experiment with placement to find the best balance between bass response and stereo imaging. Generally, placing speakers too close to walls can overemphasize bass, while placing them too far can reduce bass impact.
• Distance: Maintain an equilateral triangle between the two loudspeakers and the primary listening position for optimal stereo imaging.
• Tilted Stand: The Chora 826 features a tilted stand designed for Time Alignment, which helps create a better soundstage by directing sound waves more precisely towards the listener. Ensure the speakers are positioned to take advantage of this design.

Figure 3: Angled view demonstrating the tilted design of the Chora 826 loudspeaker, which aids in soundstage optimization.

Figure 4: Side view of the Chora 826, illustrating its cabinet depth and the angle provided by the base.

4.2 Connections

Connect your Chora 826 loudspeaker to your amplifier using high-quality speaker cables. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and – to –) for each speaker to avoid phase issues that can negatively impact sound quality.

1. Turn off your amplifier before making any connections.
2. Strip approximately 1/2 inch (12 mm) of insulation from the ends of your speaker cables.
3. Unscrew the binding posts on the back of the loudspeaker and your amplifier.
4. Insert the bare wire into the corresponding terminals (red for positive, black for negative).
5. Tighten the binding posts securely to ensure a good connection.

Figure 5: Rear panel of the Chora 826, displaying the speaker cable binding posts for amplifier connection.

4.3 Break-in Period

Your Focal Chora 826 loudspeakers require a break-in period to reach their full sonic potential. This typically involves 20 to 30 hours of playback at moderate volume. During this period, the drivers will loosen up, and the sound quality will improve, particularly in bass response and overall clarity.

5. Operating

Once properly set up and connected, operating your Chora 826 loudspeakers is straightforward:

• Ensure your amplifier is powered on and set to the correct input source.
• Start with the amplifier volume at a low level and gradually increase it to your desired listening level.
• The Chora 826 is compatible with various audio sources, including smartphones, tablets, MP3 players, desktops, televisions, projectors, and laptops, when connected through a suitable amplifier or receiver.
• For optimal sound, avoid excessively high volumes that cause audible distortion.

6. Maintenance

Proper care will help maintain the appearance and performance of your loudspeakers:

• Cabinet: Wipe the cabinet surfaces with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. For stubborn marks, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed immediately by a dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Drivers: The Slatefiber cones are delicate. Do not touch them directly. If dust accumulates, use a soft brush or compressed air from a distance.
• Grilles: The magnetic grilles can be removed for cleaning. Gently brush them to remove dust.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Chora 826 loudspeakers, consult the following table:

8. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Focal Chora 826 Floorstanding Loudspeaker:

9. Warranty and Support

Your Focal Chora 826 loudspeaker comes with a Limited Warranty. Please refer to the warranty documentation provided with your purchase for specific terms and conditions regarding coverage and duration.

For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact your authorized Focal dealer or visit the official Focal website for contact information.