Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Polk Monitor XT70 Large Tower Speaker. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
The Polk Monitor XT70 is a high-performance, large floor-standing loudspeaker designed to deliver dynamic, high-resolution sound with crystal clear highs and powerful, effortless bass. It features a Dynamically Balanced acoustic array with a 1-inch High-Resolution Terylene Tweeter, two 6.5-inch Polypropylene Woofers, and two 8-inch Passive Radiators. The MXT70 is Hi-Res Audio Certified and compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound systems.
Product Overview
Figure 1: Front view of the Polk Monitor XT70 Large Tower Speaker, showcasing its multiple drivers and sleek black finish.
Figure 2: Rear view close-up of the speaker's nickel-plated binding posts, designed for secure and lossless audio connections.
Key Features:
- Hi-Res Audio Certified: Ensures accurate sound reproduction up to 40kHz.
- Dynamically Balanced Acoustic Array: Features a 1-inch Terylene Tweeter, two 6.5-inch Polypropylene Woofers, and two 8-inch Passive Radiators for clear highs and powerful bass.
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Compatible: Designed to integrate seamlessly with modern surround sound systems.
- Nickel-Plated Binding Posts: For secure and high-quality audio connections.
- Low-Resonance MDF Cabinets: Critically braced to minimize unwanted vibrations.
- Removable, Precision-Fit Grilles: Allows for aesthetic preference and driver protection.
Setup
Unpacking:
Carefully remove the speaker from its packaging. Inspect the speaker for any signs of damage during transit. Retain the original packaging for future transport or storage.
Placement:
For optimal sound performance, consider the following placement guidelines:
- Stereo Setup: Place the two XT70 speakers equidistant from your primary listening position, forming an equilateral triangle.
- Surround Sound: In a 5.1 or higher channel setup, the XT70 speakers typically serve as front left and right channels. Ensure they are positioned symmetrically relative to your display.
- Distance from Walls: Experiment with placing the speakers a few inches to a foot away from the back wall to adjust bass response. Closer placement can enhance bass, while further placement can tighten it.
- Flooring: The MXT70 comes with rubber feet suitable for both carpeted and hard floors, providing stability and vibration isolation.
Figure 3: Example of optimal speaker placement in a living room environment, demonstrating proper spacing for an immersive audio experience.
Connections:
The Polk Monitor XT70 speakers are passive and require an external amplifier or AV receiver. Use high-quality speaker wire for connections.
- Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both your amplifier/receiver and the XT70 speaker. The positive terminal is typically red, and the negative is black.
- Strip approximately 1/2 inch (12mm) of insulation from the ends of your speaker wire. Twist the bare strands tightly.
- Unscrew the binding post caps on the speaker and insert the bare wire into the hole. Ensure no stray wire strands are touching the other terminal.
- Tighten the binding post caps securely.
- Connect the other end of the speaker wire to the corresponding terminals on your amplifier/receiver. Ensure polarity is consistent (+ to + and - to -) for all speakers in your system to avoid phase issues.
Operating Instructions
Once connected to an appropriate amplifier or AV receiver, the Polk Monitor XT70 speakers operate as part of your audio system. Refer to your amplifier/receiver's manual for specific operating instructions.
Initial Playback:
- Start with the volume on your amplifier/receiver at a low setting.
- Play your desired audio content (music, movie, etc.).
- Gradually increase the volume to a comfortable listening level.
- Listen for balanced sound from both speakers. If the sound seems off-center or lacks bass, double-check your wiring polarity.
Break-in Period:
Like many high-fidelity speakers, the Monitor XT70 may benefit from a break-in period. Play the speakers at moderate volumes for approximately 40-60 hours. This allows the driver surrounds to loosen and the speakers to achieve their full sonic potential.
Maintenance
Proper care will ensure the longevity and performance of your Polk Monitor XT70 speakers.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the cabinet. For stubborn marks, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed immediately by a dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Grilles: The grilles can be removed for cleaning. Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove dust.
- Driver Care: Avoid touching the speaker drivers (tweeter, woofers, passive radiators) directly, as this can cause damage.
- Environment: Keep speakers away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from speaker | Loose or incorrect speaker wire connection | Check all speaker wire connections at both the speaker and amplifier/receiver. Ensure wires are securely fastened and not shorting. |
| Distorted or unclear sound | Overdriving the speaker; incorrect amplifier settings; damaged speaker driver | Reduce volume. Check amplifier settings (e.g., tone controls, EQ). Inspect speaker drivers for visible damage. |
| Weak or no bass | Incorrect speaker polarity; speaker placed too far from walls; amplifier settings | Verify positive (+) and negative (-) connections are consistent for all speakers. Adjust speaker placement. Check amplifier bass settings or subwoofer crossover if applicable. |
| Sound from only one speaker | Loose connection to one speaker; amplifier balance setting; faulty amplifier channel | Check connections for the silent speaker. Adjust amplifier balance control. Test with another speaker or amplifier if possible to isolate the issue. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | MXT70 |
| Speaker Type | Tower |
| Mounting Type | Floor Standing |
| Material | Wood |
| Color | Black |
| Product Dimensions (DxWxH) | 7.5"D x 9.09"W x 36.4"H |
| Item Weight | 35 Pounds |
| Tweeter Diameter | 1 Inch (Terylene) |
| Woofer Diameter | 6.5 Inches (Polypropylene, x2) |
| Passive Radiator Diameter | 8 Inches (x2) |
| Impedance | 8 Ohm |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 200 Watts |
| Frequency Response (Upper Limit) | 40 KHz |
| Included Components | Speaker |
| Special Features | Hi-Res Audio Certified, Dolby Enabled, DTS:X Compatible |
Warranty Information
The Polk Monitor XT70 Large Tower Speaker comes with a Limited Warranty. For specific terms and conditions, including duration and coverage details, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Polk Audio website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact Polk Audio customer support:
- Website: Visit the official Polk Audio website for FAQs, support articles, and contact information.
- Online Store: Polk Audio Store on Amazon
When contacting support, please have your product model (MXT70) and purchase information ready.
