Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 Flagship Tower Speaker Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 Flagship Tower Speakers. These speakers are engineered to deliver an immersive audio experience, featuring advanced acoustic innovations such as bipolar arrays, BDSS woofers, and 3XR Architecture with a built-in 12-inch subwoofer. Designed for both music and home theater systems, the DM80 speakers are Dolby Atmos and DTS:X ready, providing expansive, room-filling sound.

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your DM80 speakers. Please read it thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference.

2. Safety Instructions

• Placement: Ensure speakers are placed on a stable, level surface to prevent tipping. Keep them away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and moisture.
• Power: Connect the speakers to a suitable power outlet using the provided power cord. Do not overload electrical outlets.
• Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Allow adequate space around the speakers for proper airflow.
• Cleaning: Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service the speakers yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Children: Keep packaging materials and small parts away from children to prevent choking hazards.

3. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking your Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 speakers, please verify that all components are present:

• (2) Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 Floorstanding Speakers
• Power Cords (for built-in subwoofers)
• User Manual (this document)

Image: A pair of Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 tower speakers, showcasing their sleek black design with grilles attached.

4. Setup

4.1 Speaker Placement

Optimal speaker placement is crucial for achieving the best sound performance from your DM80 speakers. Due to their bipolar array design, these speakers radiate sound both forward and backward, creating a wide and immersive soundstage.

• Stereo Setup: For a two-channel stereo system, place the speakers equidistant from your primary listening position, forming an equilateral triangle. Position them at least 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) from side walls and corners to minimize bass reflections.
• Home Theater Setup: In a surround sound system, the DM80s typically serve as front left and right channels. Ensure they are positioned symmetrically relative to your display and listening area. Their Dolby Atmos/DTS:X readiness means they are designed to integrate seamlessly into immersive audio environments.
• Bipolar Array Adjustment: The adjustable bipolar arrays allow you to fine-tune the sound dispersion. Experiment with slight toe-in or toe-out angles to optimize the soundstage for your room.

Image: A diagram illustrating the sound dispersion from a bipolar speaker, showing sound waves radiating from both the front and rear driver arrays.

Image: A modern living room setup featuring two DM80 tower speakers flanking a large television, demonstrating an immersive audio experience with sound effects radiating throughout the room.

4.2 Connections

The DM80 speakers require both speaker wire connections to your amplifier/receiver and a power connection for their built-in subwoofers.

• Speaker Wire: Use high-quality speaker wire to connect the binding posts on the back of each DM80 speaker to the corresponding front left and right speaker outputs on your amplifier or AV receiver. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and – to –).
• Power Connection: Plug the provided power cords into the AC input on the back of each speaker and then into a wall outlet. The built-in 12-inch subwoofer requires power to operate.
• Subwoofer LFE Input (Optional): While the DM80 has a built-in subwoofer, some advanced setups might benefit from connecting the LFE output from your AV receiver to the LFE input on the speaker (if available) for additional control. Consult your receiver's manual for optimal subwoofer integration settings.

4.3 Initial Power-up

Once all connections are secure:

1. Ensure your amplifier/receiver is turned off and its volume is set to minimum.
2. Plug the DM80 speakers' power cords into active wall outlets.
3. Turn on your amplifier/receiver.
4. Select an audio source and gradually increase the volume to a comfortable listening level.

5. Operating Instructions

The Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 speakers are designed for straightforward operation once properly set up.

• Amplifier/Receiver Control: All primary audio control, including volume, source selection, and sound modes (e.g., Stereo, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X), will be managed through your connected amplifier or AV receiver.
• Subwoofer Level: The built-in 12-inch subwoofer's output level can typically be adjusted via a control knob on the rear of the speaker or through your AV receiver's speaker setup menu. Adjust this to achieve balanced bass response with your room acoustics and personal preference.
• Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: For optimal immersive audio, ensure your AV receiver is configured correctly for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X playback, and that your content supports these formats. The DM80 speakers are designed to complement such systems.

Image: A home theater setup featuring two DM80 tower speakers and a timbre-matched center channel speaker, illustrating a seamless sound experience across the Definitive Technology Dymension series.

6. Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your DM80 speakers.

• Cleaning the Cabinet: Use a soft, lint-free, dry cloth to wipe the speaker cabinets. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or polishes, as these can damage the finish.
• Cleaning the Grilles: The speaker grilles can be gently vacuumed with a soft brush attachment to remove dust. If necessary, they can be carefully removed and hand-washed with mild soap and water, then allowed to air dry completely before reattaching.
• Driver Care: Avoid touching the speaker drivers (tweeters, woofers, passive radiators) directly, as this can cause damage.
• Environmental Conditions: Keep speakers away from extreme temperatures, high humidity, and direct sunlight, which can degrade materials over time.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your DM80 speakers, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Sound:
  • Check all speaker wire connections at both the speaker and the amplifier/receiver. Ensure correct polarity.
  • Verify that the speakers' power cords are securely plugged into active outlets and the speakers are powered on.
  • Confirm the correct input source is selected on your amplifier/receiver.
  • Increase the volume on your amplifier/receiver.
• Distorted Sound:
  • Reduce the volume on your amplifier/receiver. If distortion disappears, the amplifier may be overdriven.
  • Check speaker wire connections for loose strands or short circuits.
  • Ensure the subwoofer level is not set excessively high, causing distortion.
• Weak Bass:
  • Verify the speakers' power cords are connected and the built-in subwoofers are active.
  • Adjust the subwoofer level control on the speaker or through your AV receiver's settings.
  • Check speaker placement; moving speakers closer to walls or corners can sometimes enhance bass, but avoid excessive proximity to prevent boominess.
• Uneven Soundstage:
  • Ensure speakers are placed symmetrically and equidistant from the listening position.
  • Check the balance settings on your amplifier/receiver.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, please contact Definitive Technology customer support or your authorized dealer.

8. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 Flagship Tower Speakers:

Image: An internal cutaway view of the DM80 speaker, highlighting its bipolar array with 5.25-inch BDSS woofers, 1-inch tweeters, and the integrated 12-inch powered subwoofer with dual bass radiators.

Image: A detailed close-up of the Aluminum Oxide Dome Tweeter, designed for crisp, sparkling highs and precise imaging.

Image: A close-up view of the Balanced Double Surround System (BDSS) woofer, featuring a Linear Response Waveguide for consistent sound distribution.

Image: An internal view illustrating the 3XR Architecture, which combines a built-in subwoofer with two passive radiators for powerful, room-filling bass.

9. Warranty and Support

The Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 speakers come with an Extended Warranty. For specific details regarding the duration and terms of your warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Definitive Technology website.

For technical support, service inquiries, or additional product information, please contact Definitive Technology customer service or your authorized dealer. You can also visit the official Definitive Technology store on Amazon for more resources and product information:

Visit the Definitive Technology Store