Focal Theva N°3-D Floorstanding Loudspeaker

1. Introduction

The Focal Theva N°3-D is a high-fidelity 3-way floorstanding loudspeaker designed for home cinema systems. It features Dolby Atmos® compatibility, achieved through a dedicated speaker driver positioned on the top of the cabinet. This driver reflects sound waves off the ceiling to create immersive 3D audio effects. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Theva N°3-D loudspeaker.

2. Safety Instructions

Please read these safety instructions carefully before using your loudspeaker. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Placement: Ensure the loudspeaker is placed on a stable, level surface to prevent tipping. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with high humidity.
• Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Allow adequate space around the loudspeaker for proper airflow.
• Power: Connect the loudspeaker to an amplifier with appropriate power ratings. Exceeding recommended power can damage the speaker.
• Cleaning: Disconnect the loudspeaker from the amplifier before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service the loudspeaker yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Children: Keep packaging materials and small parts away from children to prevent choking hazards.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present in the packaging:

• Focal Theva N°3-D Floorstanding Loudspeaker (Model: FTHEVAN3LW-D)
• Grille (pre-installed or separate)
• User Manual (this document)

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

4. Product Overview

The Theva N°3-D loudspeaker incorporates advanced technologies for superior audio performance and immersive sound.

Key Features:

• 3-way floorstanding design, Dolby Atmos® compatible.
• Full-range speaker driver with directional baffle for precise Dolby Atmos® effects.
• Slatefiber technology for immersive and dynamic home cinema sound.
• TNF Tweeter for mellow treble reproduction.
• Time Alignment design for a focused sound image.

Components:

• Dolby Atmos® Driver: Located on the top, designed to reflect sound off the ceiling.
• TNF Tweeter: Aluminum/Magnesium inverted dome tweeter for high frequencies.
• Midrange Driver: 6.5-inch (16.5cm) Slatefiber cone for balanced and precise mid-range.
• Woofers: Two 6.5-inch (16.5cm) Slatefiber cone woofers for powerful bass.
• Tilted Stand: Integrated stand for optimal Time Alignment.

Figure 1: Focal Theva N°3-D Product Sheet illustrating key components and features. This diagram shows the internal structure, driver types (TNF Tweeter, Slatefiber midrange, Slatefiber woofers), and the top-mounted Dolby Atmos driver with its directional baffle.

Figure 2: Close-up view of the top-mounted Dolby Atmos driver on the Focal Theva N°3-D loudspeaker. This driver is designed to project sound upwards for ceiling reflection, creating immersive 3D audio effects.

Figure 3: Detailed view of the Slatefiber cone material used in the midrange and woofer drivers of the Focal Theva N°3-D. This material contributes to dynamic and immersive sound reproduction.

Figure 4: Close-up of the TNF Tweeter, an Aluminum/Magnesium inverted dome, responsible for clear and mellow high-frequency reproduction in the Focal Theva N°3-D loudspeaker.

5. Setup

5.1 Placement

Optimal placement is crucial for achieving the best sound performance from your Theva N°3-D loudspeakers, especially for Dolby Atmos effects.

• Stereo Setup: For a traditional stereo setup, place the loudspeakers equidistant from your primary listening position, forming an equilateral triangle.
• Home Cinema Setup: In a home cinema configuration, the Theva N°3-D speakers should be positioned as your front left and right channels. Ensure they are placed symmetrically relative to your screen and listening area.
• Dolby Atmos: The integrated upward-firing driver requires a reflective ceiling. Position the speakers so that the sound from the top driver can reflect off the ceiling and reach your listening position. Avoid placing them under sound-absorbing materials or very high ceilings that might diminish the effect.
• Distance from Walls: Experiment with the distance from the rear and side walls. Placing speakers too close to walls can overemphasize bass, while too far can reduce bass impact. A good starting point is 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) from the rear wall.

Figure 5: Example of a Focal Theva home cinema setup, demonstrating typical speaker placement for optimal sound dispersion and Dolby Atmos effects. Note the symmetrical positioning relative to the viewing area.

5.2 Connections

The Theva N°3-D loudspeakers connect to your amplifier using standard speaker cables.

• Cable Selection: Use high-quality speaker cables of appropriate gauge for the length required.
• Polarity: Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) when connecting the speaker terminals to your amplifier. Incorrect polarity will result in poor sound quality and imaging.
• Terminal Type: The Theva N°3-D features binding posts that accept bare wire, spade connectors, or banana plugs.
• Amplifier Channels: Connect the main speaker terminals to the front left and right channels of your amplifier. For the Dolby Atmos effect, ensure your amplifier or AV receiver has dedicated height channels and connect the top-mounted driver terminals to these outputs. Consult your amplifier's manual for specific height channel connections.

Figure 6: Rear view of the Focal Theva N°3-D loudspeaker, showing the speaker terminals for connection to an amplifier. Note the separate terminals for the main drivers and the top-mounted Dolby Atmos driver.

6. Operating Instructions

Once properly set up and connected, operating your Theva N°3-D loudspeakers is straightforward.

• Power On: Ensure your amplifier is powered on and set to the correct input source.
• Volume Control: Adjust the volume level on your amplifier. Start at a low volume and gradually increase it to a comfortable listening level.
• Source Material: For optimal Dolby Atmos experience, use content encoded with Dolby Atmos audio tracks.
• Break-in Period: Loudspeakers typically require a break-in period of several hours of use to achieve their full sonic potential. During this time, the drivers will loosen up and perform optimally.

7. Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity and performance of your loudspeakers.

• Cleaning the Cabinet: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the cabinet surfaces. For stubborn marks, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Cleaning the Grille: The fabric grille can be gently vacuumed with a soft brush attachment to remove dust.
• Driver Care: Avoid touching the speaker cones or tweeters directly, as this can cause damage.
• Environmental Conditions: Protect the speakers from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Theva N°3-D loudspeakers, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Focal customer support or your authorized dealer.

9. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Focal Theva N°3-D Floorstanding Loudspeaker.

Figure 7: Dimensions diagram for the Focal Theva N°3-D loudspeaker, showing height (40.19"), depth (15.28"), and width (8.35").

10. Warranty and Support

10.1 Warranty Information

The Focal Theva N°3-D loudspeaker comes with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Focal website for detailed terms and conditions regarding coverage, duration, and claims procedures.

10.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact your authorized Focal dealer or visit the official Focal support website:

• Focal Website: www.focal.com
• Dealer Information: Refer to your purchase receipt or the Focal website to locate an authorized dealer near you.