Dynaudio BM5 mkIII User Manual
Setup and Operation
Overview – Rear Panel
Correct setup and connections are essential to achieve optimal performance from your monitors.
The rear panel of the Dynaudio BM5 mkIII monitor features the following connections and controls:
- 1. Power On/Off Switch: A toggle switch to turn the monitor on or off.
- 2. AC Power Input: Socket for connecting the mains power cable.
- 3. Balanced Analog Input (XLR): A female XLR connector for balanced audio input. The input is electronically balanced with the following pinout: Pin 1: Ground, Pin 2: +, Pin 3: -.
- 4. Unbalanced Analog Input (RCA): An RCA connector for unbalanced audio input. Use this if your audio source does not have a balanced output. For best results, use only good quality screened cables and connectors.
- 5. Power Mode Switch:
- ON: The speaker is active and ready to play.
- ON/SLEEP: After no input signal has been present on the input for 20 minutes, the speaker enters the "Sleep" mode.
- 6. Remote: Connection for an external volume control, such as the Dynaudio External Volume control. Active speakers are usually at max level all the time.
- 7. Filter Switches: Six switches are available for setting up the monitor for optimum performance in different acoustic environments.
- High Pass: This switch sets the lower cut-off frequency of the monitor. It is used to match the monitor to a subwoofer. Options are 60 Hz and 80 Hz.
- LF (Low Frequency): This switch controls the bass gain level using shelf-type EQ. The level can be set to +2 dB, 0 dB, or -2 dB. The -2 dB setting is used to adjust for the proximity of boundaries, so if positioned close to a wall or corner, use the -2 dB setting.
- MF (Mid Frequency): This switch sets a notch filter, used to compensate for the acoustic effect of a console.
- HF (High Frequency): This switch controls the Treble level and is used to match the high end of the monitor to your other electronic equipment.
- 8. Level Trim: Use this switch to match the sensitivity of the BM5 mkIII monitor to your source.
- High-output Source: If your source has a high output, set the switch to the -10 position to reduce sensitivity by 10 dB.
- Low-output source: If your source has a low output, set the switch to the +4 position to gain 4 dB more sensitivity.
Safety Information:
- This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
- Conforms to UL60065. Certified to CAN/CSA IEC60065.
- CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN.
Setting Up
1/2. Power On/Off Switch / AC Power In: Before switching on, make sure the Mains Voltage matches your area's mains voltage specification.
3. Balanced Analog Input: Audio input is via a female XLR connector. The input is electronically balanced.
4. Unbalanced Analog Input (RCA): Unbalanced input via RCA. If your audio source doesn't have a balanced output, use the RCA input connector. For best results, always use only good quality screened cables and connectors.
Switches: On the rear of the monitor, you will find six switches for setting up the monitor for optimum performance in different acoustic environments.
5. Power Mode Switch:
- ON: The speaker is active and ready to play.
- ON/SLEEP: After no input signal has been present on the input for 20 minutes, the speaker enters the "Sleep" mode.
6. Remote: Usually, active speakers are at max level all the time. By connecting the Dynaudio External Volume control, you can manage the volume remotely.
7. Filter Switches:
- LF: This switch controls the bass gain level using shelf-type EQ. The level can be set to +2 dB, 0 dB, or -2 dB. This filter is used to adjust for the proximity of boundaries, so if positioned close to a wall or corner, use the -2 dB setting.
- MF: This switch sets a notch filter, used to compensate for the acoustic effect of a console.
- HF: This switch controls the Treble level and is used to match the high end of the monitor to your other electronic equipment.
- HP: This switch sets the lower cut-off frequency of the monitor. It is used to match the monitor to a subwoofer.
8. Level Trim: Use this switch to match the sensitivity of the BM5 mkIII monitor to your source.
- High-output Source: If your source has a high output, set the switch to the -10 position to reduce sensitivity by 10 dB.
- Low-output source: If your source has a low output, set the switch to the +4 position to gain 4 dB more sensitivity.
Protection
The BM5 mkIII monitor has several built-in protection systems to reduce the risk of hazard or damage.
- Both power amplifiers have thermal protection. This activates if a problem should occur, and helps protect the unit.
- The woofer channel has a built-in limiter that protects the woofer unit from too much excursion. It works by limiting the signal to the woofer.
Positioning
The BM5 mkIII is designed as a precision near-field monitor and can be equally well used in both stereo and multi-channel setups.
It can be placed on stands or on the meter bridge of a console, provided that the meter bridge is sufficiently stable.