Sonance Invisible Series IS8T Speaker Manual

Important Safety Instructions

This product is intended for installation by professional AV integrators and installers only. This manual serves as a general guideline. Installers are responsible for ensuring installation complies with local building codes and regulations. Consult local authorities for specific requirements.

Read this document in its entirety before attempting use:

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Clean only with a dry cloth.
6. Do not block ventilation openings. Install per manufacturer's instructions.
7. Do not install near heat sources like radiators, heat registers, stoves, fireplaces, or other heat-producing apparatus.
8. Only use Sonance-specified attachments/accessories.
9. To be installed in indoor locations only.
10. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

Box Contents

• (1) Invisible Speaker with Cutout Template
• (1) Stainless Steel Screw Set
• (4) 1/16" (1.6mm) Shims
• (4) 1/8" (3.18mm) Shims

Scan QR code for additional information and resources. For technical support call (949) 492-7777 or visit www.sonance.com/in-wall-in-ceiling/invisible-series.

Product Description

The Sonance Invisible Series speakers feature Motion Flex Technology for advanced acoustic performance and installation enhancements. They incorporate Wave Flex drive units, carbon fiber Air Flex woofers, and acoustically-isolated baffles for up to 180 degrees of smooth off-axis response. The Sonance DISC System allows for non-destructive measurement of finish thickness for consistent installation results. Sonance DSP amplifier presets are recommended for optimal performance.

Features

• In-wall or In-ceiling installation
• Compatible with 1/2" (12.5mm) & 5/8" (15mm) drywall using included shims; supply own shims for thicker substrates.
• Finish-up-to or finish-over with up to 1/8" (3mm) flexible topping compound or finish material.
• 170-degree hemispherical dispersion.
• 30W multi-tap 70V/100V transformer with 4-ohm bypass and Sonance Laminated Core Technology for full-range, high-fidelity audio.
• Integrated, sealed metal rear enclosure for consistent commercial installations.
• UL 1480A and UL 2043 Listed.
• Per-transducer poly fuses for over-current protection.
• 15-year limited warranty.

Diagram Descriptions:

Front View: Shows mounting points for attachment to framing and paper facing for even drying of finishes. Features a 0.02" (0.5mm) beveled edge for seamless joints.

Back View: Shows mounting points for an optional sound-isolating enclosure and the Sonance DISC system (four steel discs embedded behind the diaphragm for finish thickness measurement).

Side View: Indicates a 9.49" (241mm) back width, allowing installation in 12" (305mm) on-center stud and joist spacing.

70 Volt Applications

The Sonance Invisible Series IS8T includes a 70V/100V Sonance Laminated Core Transformer with an adjustable tap.

Setting the 70V Tap

1. Use a #2 Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the terminal cover plate.
2. Run speaker wire through the terminal cover plate's hole. Connect wires to the terminal block, positive (+) to terminal marked '+' and negative (-) to terminal marked '-'. Ensure compliance with local codes for wire clamping. For conduit, attach the connector to the plate first.
3. Use a flat head screwdriver to set the transformer tap to the correct setting. Testing with music is strongly recommended to determine the correct output level.

WARNING: Do not mount and finish over the speaker until the necessary tap setting is selected for desired volume. After setting a tap, play audio to verify volume. Re-select tap if necessary.

Wiring Diagram Description: Illustrates the connection from an amplifier (e.g., Sonance DSP-2-750 MKII) to the IS8T speakers for 70V systems, showing speaker wire connections and the 70V power select tap settings (7.5W, 15W, 30W, 60W).

Product Preparation

Amplifier Selection

Sonance DSP Amplifiers are recommended for the IS8T. For 70V/100V systems, the Sonance DSP-2-750 MKII is suggested. These amplifiers feature preloaded curves for optimal performance and allow for effortless calibration. Sonance DSP Amplifiers are rated down to 4 Ohms and stable to 2 Ohms. Never run more than two Invisible Speakers in parallel per amplifier channel.

NOTE: Select an amplifier with max RMS watts per channel at 4 ohms that closely matches or is less than the IS speaker's rated power handling (see page 16) to prevent damage.

Wire Gauge - 70V/100V Systems

18-gauge, 2-conductor, stranded, jacketed wire is common for 70-volt systems. Wire length recommendations for 18-gauge wire with a 100-watt load are up to 700 feet. Doubling the load halves the footage to 350 feet. Halving the load doubles the acceptable wire length. Using 16-gauge wire extends the allowable run length by approximately 35%.

Wire Resistance vs. Cable Length Table

Wire Gauge - Low Impedance Systems

For low impedance systems (4 Ohm nominal), total wire resistance should be less than 10% of speaker impedance (no more than 0.4 Ohms). Excessive wire resistance negatively impacts sound quality, reducing dynamics and bass definition, and potentially attenuating high frequencies.

Speaker Location

IS8T speakers offer 170-degree hemispherical dispersion. For wall installations, mount speakers at least 7 feet (2.13 meters) above the finished floor (AFF) to avoid damage. Ensure speakers are not covered by cabinetry, draperies, art, or crown molding. For wall installations, orient the Wave Flex Drive Unit away from the ceiling; for ceiling installations, orient it away from the walls. Ensure adequate clearance behind the speaker, away from electrical, HVAC, pipes, or fire sprinklers, to comply with codes and maintain sound quality.

Installation Accessories

Space savers and preconstruction zip rings aid trade coordination. Space savers reserve precise dimensions and protect speaker wire during construction. They allow delayed speaker installation until the finishing stage, reducing risk of damage or theft. Preconstruction zip ring brackets, used with a drywall zip tool, provide accurate cutouts for drywall installation, especially on large projects with many speakers. Contact Sonance for zip ring pricing and availability.

Space Saver Part Numbers

Finish Materials

Use flexible materials like slow-setting drywall mud, wallpaper, acrylic-based Venetian plaster, or thin wood veneer. The total thickness of compound, adhesives, and substrate should not exceed 3mm (1/8"). For optimal performance, target 1.0-1.5mm (about 1/16") of topping compound. Avoid stiff materials like fast-setting drywall mud ("hot mud"), genuine Venetian plaster, stucco, metal panels, or tile, as they restrict movement and degrade sound quality.

Product Management

Precise installation ensures optimal performance and invisibility. Project management and coordination with drywall and finish trades are crucial. Best practices include:

• Conducting a pre-finishing walk-through with the client, General Contractor, and finish manager to listen to each speaker and identify anomalies.
• Obtaining sign-offs on audio performance for each speaker and room. A checklist should be prepared and signed.
• Emphasizing to the finish manager the importance of using only enough flexible material to conceal the speaker, adhering to the 1.0-1.5mm target and 3mm maximum thickness. Review recommended materials.
• Using the Sonance DISC system and DG-1 depth gauge (SKU 93491) to validate finish thickness. Lending the gauge to the finish manager is helpful.
• Performing a post-finishing listening check to identify any issues caused by excessive finish thickness (over 3mm/1/8"), allowing for correction by removing material.
• Remember that correcting excess finish material after flooring and furniture are in place is costly and complex.

Effective project management, sign-offs, and communication prevent unexpected results and ensure consistent, high-quality installations.

Additional Information: Scan QR code for CAD files, dimensions, and technical information, or visit www.sonance.com/in-wall-in-ceiling/invisible-series.

Example Checklist: A table structure is provided for recording project name, room details, speaker model/serial number, pre-finishing audio test approval, measured finish thickness, and post-finishing audio test approval, along with signature and date fields.

Installation Detail - 16" (406mm) On-Center

Diagram Description: A detailed cross-section shows a 16" (406mm) on-center stud bay. It illustrates 5/8" (15mm) or 1/2" (12.5mm) drywall, the IS speaker, framing support, included 1/8" (3mm) shims installed around the speaker perimeter, included stainless steel screws, and topping compound or flexible finish material applied over the speaker.

A top-down view shows the 16" (406mm) on-center spacing between framing studs and the placement of the IS speaker within the drywall.

Retrofit Installation

Steps for Retrofit Installation:

1. Remove the cutout template from the speaker.
2. Locate studs, mark their centers, and position the template centered on the studs.
3. Mark around the template and remove it. Keep the template for DISC system measurement validation.
4. Perform an obstruction survey to check for studs, conduit, pipes, HVAC, pocket doors, etc., within the wall cavity.
5. Cut the drywall along the top and bottom edges with a drywall saw and along the stud centerlines with a utility knife. An oscillating power saw is recommended for cleaner cuts.
6. Remove drywall from the opening, exposing approximately 3/4" (19mm) of each stud/joist surface. Remove any exposed nails or screws.
7. Test-fit the speaker, ensuring the center diaphragm area is flush with drywall edges. Trim drywall if necessary.
8. Run speaker wire from the amplifier to the cutout. Refer to the wiring chart on page 5.
9. Reinforce top and bottom joint locations with 2x4 or 3/4" (19mm) plywood blocks. Ensure a flush, level surface around the speaker location.
10. Proceed to Step 9 on page 10.

Diagram Descriptions: Illustrates using a drywall saw for top/bottom cuts and a utility knife for horizontal cuts along stud centerlines.

New Construction Installation

Steps for New Construction Installation:

1. Run speaker wire from the amplifier to desired speaker locations. Refer to the wire gauge chart on page 5.
2. Reinforce top and bottom joint locations with face-block-oriented 2x4 or 3/4" (19mm) plywood. Consult construction diagrams and product dimensional drawings on www.sonance.com. Ensure a flush, level surface around the speaker location.
3. Place space saver, preconstruction zip ring bracket, or both in the desired location. Space savers are recommended for all new construction; zip rings are time-savers for large projects.
4. Use the wire management on the space saver/zip ring to secure cables. Screw the space saver/zip ring to studs using a level, ensuring it is centered horizontally.
5. Complete drywall installation, including the area around the speakers.

NOTE: Use included stainless steel screws around speaker locations to avoid interfering with the Sonance DISC system depth gauge operation. This improves accuracy of finish thickness measurements.

Diagram Descriptions: Shows wire management with a space saver/zip ring, and the opening height chart for IS8T speakers.

Steps for New Construction Installation (Continued):

6. Remove the space saver if applicable. Pull the speaker wire through the opening, being careful not to damage drywall. The space saver can be kept or recycled.
7. (Optional) If a zip ring was used, cut the drywall using a zip tool and the zip ring as a guide, cutting along the outside edge of the ring. The ring stays in place.
8. Install shims as needed. Half-inch (12.5mm) drywall typically requires no shims. For thicker substrates like 5/8" (15mm) drywall, use the included 1/8" (3mm) shims. A full set of 1/16" (1.6mm) shims is also provided for various substrates. Ensure all four speaker edges (top, bottom, sides) are supported for a flush install surface.
9. Connect the speaker wire from the wall or ceiling to the speaker terminals.
10. Place the speaker into the opening. For ceiling installations, hold the speaker by the frame edge, not the diaphragm center, and get assistance from a helper. Secure the speaker with at least 4 included stainless steel screws in each corner.

NOTE: Using stainless steel screws for the surrounding drywall is best practice, as they are non-magnetic and improve DISC system accuracy.

Diagram Descriptions: Shows removing the space saver, cutting with a zip tool, connecting wires, and securing the speaker with screws.

Steps for New Construction Installation (Continued):

11. Ensure the speaker diaphragm center is flush with the surrounding drywall. Adjust shims if necessary.
12. IMPORTANT: Test the speaker with an audio source at moderate listening levels to ensure proper function before completing installation. Follow guidelines on this page.
13. Secure the speaker to the surface with remaining stainless steel screws on all four sides. Do not overtighten.

Pre-Finishing Testing Guidelines

Once a finish is applied, it is too late to fix audio or installation problems.

Installation Fit Test

Lightly place a straight edge across the speaker face to verify the diaphragm is co-planar with the surrounding drywall. Adjust shims if needed. The beveled edge of the speaker may be recessed from adjacent drywall.

Audio Test

Connect a high-quality audio source and Sonance amplifier. Adjust output to a moderate volume level. Play music to check fidelity and listen for buzzes or rattles. A slow tone sweep from 20Hz to 5kHz can help pinpoint buzzing from loose components or vibration.

Fix any installation or audio issues before proceeding to the next steps. Active project management practices (page 6) are highly recommended. Proceed to the finishing stage only after passing these tests.

Finishing Instructions

NOTE: For invisible speakers, a level four drywall finish (feathered and sanded seams) is recommended. A level five finish (skim-coated and sanded) provides the smoothest consistency.

Steps for Finishing:

1. Fill the gap between the speaker and drywall with 20-minute fast-setting joint compound ("hot mud").
2. Feather all edges.
3. Allow hot mud to set slightly before applying mesh tape.
4. Place mesh tape over drywall seams, overlapping slightly.
5. Do not tape over the raised portion of the speaker.
6. Allow hot mud to fully cure and harden.
7. Once hot mud is cured, cover joints with slow-setting compound.
8. Feather all surfaces around joints up to the speaker diaphragm.
9. Allow the first coat to fully cure (12-24 hours).

NOTE: Do not use fast-setting drywall compound ("hot mud") to cover the speaker itself, as it lacks flexibility. Use lightweight all-purpose joint compound for joints and feathering, and lightweight, easy-sand topping compound for covering the speaker.

IMPORTANT: If a perfectly flat finish is achieved, a "Finish Up To" installation can proceed to priming/painting. Multiple paint layers are recommended for seamless blending. A "Finish Over" process, involving an additional skim coat over the entire speaker and wall, is recommended for easier completion and a more seamless, shadowless finish. IS speakers are optimized for 1.0mm to 1.5mm finish thickness.

Recommended Drywall Compounds

Finish Thickness Guidelines

Excessive finish material thickness adversely affects sound quality and installation durability.

• Optimal Performance Thickness: 1.0mm to 1.5mm (3/64" to 1/16")
• Maximum Total Finish Thickness: 3mm (1/8")

Validate finish thickness using the Sonance DG-1 depth gauge (SKU 93491).

Use only flexible materials for finishing. Avoid stiff materials like fast-setting drywall mud, Venetian plaster, stucco, metal panels, or tile. For wallpaper or veneer, ensure the total thickness of compound, adhesives, and substrate does not exceed 3mm (1/8"). For wood veneer, use only 20mil (0.5mm) veneer with paper backing.

Steps for Finishing (Continued):

10. Apply a second coat of topping compound over the entire speaker surface and adjoining areas.
11. Ensure compound buildup on the speaker surface does not exceed 3mm (1/8").
12. Detail the compound to minimize tool marks.
13. Allow each layer to fully cure (12-24 hours).
14. Build more coats as necessary, with each successive coat being thinner. The final coat should be a very light skim coat.

Diagram Descriptions: Show applying compound, detailing, and the DG-1 depth gauge validation.

Steps for Finishing (Continued):

15. After the final coat dries, use a manual pole or block sander on the entire wall. Do not use a power sander, as it can damage the speaker surface. Sand carefully to avoid sanding into the speaker paper, which makes blending difficult. The wall surface should appear seamless.
16. Validate the finish thickness using the Sonance DISC system and DG-1 depth gauge (SKU 93491).
17. Perform a final audio test. Listen to each speaker to verify audio quality and performance have not changed significantly since the pre-finishing test. Address any audible anomalies or surface imperfections now.

After listening validation, the installation is complete. Proceed with normal final finishing using flexible materials like paint, wallpaper, or veneer.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Invisible Series speakers be installed in the ceiling or just in walls? Sonance IS speakers can be installed in both walls and ceilings.

Where is the best place to locate the speakers? For wall installations, ensure speakers are at least 7' (2.13m) from the floor. For ceilings, space them evenly for optimal coverage and avoid corners if possible. Contact Sonance Tech Support / Design Services for layout planning.

What is the minimum depth requirement? Minimum depth without enclosure is approximately 2.75" (70mm); with enclosure, it's approximately 3.5" (90mm).

Can IS speakers be used in a plenum space? Only models with a "T" suffix, like the IS8T, are rated for plenum use (UL2043). Standard models (IS6/IS8/IS10/IS10W) are not plenum rated.

Can these speakers be installed in a T-Bar ceiling? Theoretically yes, provided the T-Bar ceiling's maximum load capacity can support the aggregate weight of the installed speakers.

Can these be used outside? No, Sonance invisible speakers are not outdoor rated.

Can these be used in high heat or high humidity applications? Invisible speakers should not be directly exposed to high heat or humidity. Finishing materials rated for high heat and humidity may be used if they form a protective barrier. A mock-up trial is recommended to validate performance.

What finish materials can I use with invisible speakers? Can these be covered with wallpaper or wood veneer? Use flexible materials such as slow-setting, lightweight drywall compounds, wallpaper, wood veneer, vinyl veneer, or acrylic-based Venetian plaster. See page 14 for details.

Are there materials that should not be used to cover the speakers? Avoid stiff, inflexible materials or those exceeding 3mm (1/8") total thickness over the diaphragm, such as tile, metal sheet, stone veneer, true Venetian plaster, or stucco. These materials restrict movement and degrade sound quality.

How much finish material can go over the speaker? For optimal performance, 1.0mm to 1.5mm is recommended. The maximum limit is 3mm (1/8").

How can I tell how much finish material is covering the speaker? Use the Sonance DG-1 depth gauge (SKU 93491) to measure the actual finish thickness.

What is the DISC system? The Sonance DISC System uses a magnetic sensor and the DG-1 handheld depth gauge to measure finish thickness non-destructively. It measures the distance between the finished surface and steel discs embedded behind the speaker diaphragm.

What if I add too much finish material? Before painting, sand the surface and measure thickness with the DG-1 gauge. Repeat until 3mm or less is measured. 1.0mm to 1.5mm is recommended for optimal performance.

Is there a benefit to "Finish Up To" rather than "Finish Over"? "Finish Over" is recommended as it typically takes less time, results in a more seamless, shadowless finish, and IS speakers are optimized for 1.0mm to 1.5mm finish thickness.

What happens if the mud or finish cracks? Cracks may indicate improperly applied finish or speakers being regularly overdriven. Integrated poly fuses protect drivers but not necessarily the finish. If cracks occur, Sonance can help troubleshoot, often related to excessive finish thickness. The DISC system helps prevent these issues.

Can I use other than Sonance DSP amplifiers? Yes, but Sonance DSP amps are recommended for their preset curves. Match amplifier RMS watts per channel closely to or below the speaker's rated power handling to prevent damage. Always use a Sonance DSP amplifier for Sonance IS woofers and subwoofers.

I lost the screws. What is the spec or do I have to buy them from Sonance? Use stainless steel #6 drywall screws of appropriate length for your drywall/substrate thickness and local codes.

I lost the shims. How can I get more? Do I have to buy them from Sonance? Standard drywall shims are available from your local hardware store.

Is there a protection circuit built into the speaker or do they need to be added? All full-range IS speakers (IS6T/IS8T) have dual, self-resetting poly fuses per transducer. Woofers have a single fuse. If a speaker is overdriven, fuses trip, ceasing sound to protect drivers and the installation surface. Fuses reset after a few minutes. Tripping indicates the speakers are being overdriven; reduce volume or add more speakers.

What is the warranty on IS invisible speakers, and what does the warranty cover? The 15-Year limited warranty covers the cost to replace the speaker(s) and refinishing up to level 5 drywall finish.

Certifications

Safety Agency Compliance

Sonance Invisible Series IS8T speaker models meet the following standards:

• UL-1480A: Speakers for Fire Protective Signaling Systems.
• UL-2043: Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and their Accessories Installed in Air Handling Spaces.
• CSA-C22.2 No.205: Signaling Equipment for General Signaling and Fire Alarm Signaling, Canada.

Installation must be in accordance with:

• NFPA-70: National Electric Code.
• NFPA-90A: Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilation.
• CSA C22.1: Canadian Electrical Code.

Certifications include UL Listed (S8522, 23WG), CE, WEEE Compliant symbols.

Technical Assistance & Service

The Technical Assistance Department is available at (949) 492-7777 from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday-Friday (excluding holidays), for operation and installation questions.

For Repair or Service:

1. Keep original packaging if possible.
2. Be prepared to provide model/serial number, date of purchase, and dealer information.
3. Contact Sonance directly at (949) 492-7777 or www.sonance.com. Prior authorization is required to return a unit.
4. If returning directly to Sonance, obtain a return authorization number (RMA) before shipping.
5. Ship via United Parcel Service, Federal Express, or other package delivery service (not U.S. Postal Service).
6. Include the RMA number on the shipping label, not directly on the carton.
7. Ship to: Attn: Quality Assurance Department, RMA# (include RMA number here), Sonance, 11016 Mulberry Ave. Suite B, Fontana, CA 92337.

Limited Fifteen (15) Year Warranty

Sonance warrants the Product to the first end-user purchaser against defective workmanship and materials for fifteen (15) years from the purchase date, provided it was bought from an authorized dealer/distributor. Sonance will, at its option, repair or replace the Product.

Exclusions

This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for use, or fitness for a particular purpose. No modifications to this warranty are authorized. Sonance is not liable for consequential, incidental, economic, property, bodily injury, or personal injury damages.

This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by state. Some states do not allow exclusion of implied warranties or limitations of remedies. If implied warranties apply, their duration is limited to Sonance's express warranty period.

Product Model and Description: IS8T Invisible Speakers.

Warranty Period: Fifteen (15) years from the original sales receipt or invoice.

Additional Limitations and Exclusions: Warranty is non-transferable, applies only to initial installation, does not cover repair/replacement installation, damage to associated equipment, or issues arising from accident, disaster, negligence, improper installation, misuse (overdriving, extreme temperatures, mishandling), or unauthorized service/repair.

Obtaining Authorized Service: Contact your authorized Sonance Dealer/Installer or Sonance Customer Service at (949) 492-7777 within the warranty period. Obtain an RMA and deliver the Product to Sonance shipping prepaid with proof of purchase.

©2020 Sonance. All rights reserved. Sonance is a registered trademark of Dana Innovations. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice. Visit www.sonance.com for the latest product information.

Sonance Contact Information: 991 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente, CA 92673 USA. Phone: (949) 492-7777, Fax: (949) 361-5151, Technical Support: (949) 492-7777, www.sonance.com.