Monitor Reference Series Owner's Manual

Contents

• Introduction
• Positioning
  • AV Positioning
  • 2 Channel Positioning
• Spike Fixing
• Wiring Configurations
• Port Bungs
• Amp Panel & Controls for MRW-10
• Positioning & Initial Set Up of MRW-10
• Specifications
• Trouble Shooting
• Owner Information
• Guarantee

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Monitor Reference Series loudspeakers. By using the finest materials around, we have been able to use our decades of expertise in developing quality loudspeakers to bring the Monitor Reference series to life. Resplendent in a stunning black oak vinyl furniture finish and built with the accuracy that exemplifies the Monitor Audio brand world-wide, the six model strong Monitor Reference Series will look gorgeous in any room.

Positioning

Spike Fixing

The Monitor Reference Series floor standing loudspeakers come with spikes. These enhance the acoustic performance of the loudspeaker and should be used where possible. The spikes can be found in the packaging of the MR4 and MR6 only.

BEWARE: The spikes are very sharp, and could cause injury if care is not taken when handling them. Please ensure there are no hidden wires under the carpet, or trailing mains leads that could be damaged by the spikes.

1. Carefully place the cabinet on its top or back to fit the spikes.
2. Screw the spikes into the threaded inserts on the bottom of the cabinets.
3. Carefully turn your speaker back over and check that it is evenly balanced. If uneven, you can adjust the height in the appropriate (lowest) corner by unscrewing the spike slightly. This operation may need to be repeated several times to ensure your cabinet is completely level. When you are happy with the balance of the cabinet, tighten the locking nut on each spike.

Wiring Configurations

Single Wire

For the MR1 and MR Centre, there are only one pair of terminals. This means it is only possible to single wire these speakers.

The MR2, MR4 & MR6 all have two pairs of terminals. By running one pair of cables (one positive and one negative) you will be single wiring them. When single wiring these speakers, you must leave the terminal links in.

Bi-Wire or Bi Amp

By running two pairs of cables (two positive and two negative) from a single pair of terminals on your amp, you will be bi-wiring them.

Some AV amplifiers support bi-amping. This is very similar in process to bi-wiring, except the two pairs of cables will not be joined at the amplifier end to a single set of terminals; they go to two pairs of terminals. Bi-amping is also achieved by using two stereo amplifiers.

By bi-wiring/ bi-amping them you will get a cleaner, more smooth sound with tighter mid and more controlled bass.

When bi-wiring these speakers, you must remove the terminal links. Failure to do so will result in damage to your amp.

Port Bungs

WARNING: Care must be taken not to insert the port bungs too far into the port, as this may result in the foam bung being lost inside the cabinet.

If the loudspeaker is to be installed in a small room, typically 9 sqM (80 sqFT), or a room known to reproduce accentuated bass response, it may be desirable to fit port bungs. However, experimentation is recommended with positioning of the loudspeaker in the room prior to fitting. To optimise performance from the loudspeaker it is important to ensure the loudspeaker is not positioned too close to a wall or near the corners of a room (refer to the suggestions on pages 2 and 3).

If the positioning of the loudspeaker is predetermined by room aesthetics or layout, or you find you have accentuated bass, please read point 1 for the MR1 & MR2 and point 2 for the MR4 & MR6.

1. Where bookshelf/ stand-mount speakers (MR1 & MR2) are to be sited in close proximity (less than 8 inches/ 20cm) to a rear wall (such as on a bookshelf, wall mounted, positioned in a cabinet or on a stand close to a wall), we recommend experimenting with fitting port bungs into the ports. This will reduce the bass 'boom' sometimes termed as “overhang” and assist the loudspeakers to reproduce their best performance under these environmental conditions. 'Boom' is generally caused when bass energy from the loudspeaker 'excites' room modes and causes an accentuation at a particular frequency, or number of frequencies.
2. Where floor-standing loudspeakers (MR4 & MR6) are to be sited in close proximity (closer than 18 inches/ 45cm) to a rear wall, we recommend experimenting fitting the port bungs. This will reduce the bass 'boom' sometimes termed as overhang and assist the loudspeakers to reproduce their best performance under these environmental conditions. This is caused when bass energy from the loudspeaker ‘excites' room modes and causes an accentuation at a particular frequency, or number of frequencies.
3. When fitting port bungs the overall bass extension will not be reduced, however bass energy/ output around the port tuning frequency will be reduced. This has the effect of reducing bass ‘boom' while increasing bass clarity and apparent agility. Experimentation is highly recommended.

Amp Panel & Controls for MRW-10

The MRW-10 subwoofer features a comprehensive amplifier panel with various controls:

1. RCA Stereo Inputs (Left & Right): For signal input using a stereo amplifier system. Connect with high-quality signal cables from the pre-out section of an amplifier. The crossover frequency will need to be set if using this method. For Bronze Series speakers, set the crossover dial to approximately 80Hz, adjustable based on room and taste. Note: Cable lengths should not exceed 10 metres to avoid interference.
2. LFE Input (RCA Type): Use when connecting the subwoofer to an AV amplifier/ receiver. The crossover frequency dial is not used as the crossover function is controlled by the AV amplifier/ processor.
3. 12 Volt Trigger Input ~ Centre Pin = +12Vdc: For external power control from an AV amplifier/ receiver to the MRW10. A 12-volt signal from the AV amp/receiver turns the MRW10 on from standby mode, providing a more accurately controlled auto on/off function and energy efficiency. The Mode Switch (8) can be in either position for this function to work correctly.
4. Crossover Frequency Control: Operates only with RCA stereo input (1). Sets the upper frequency limit (low pass) of the subwoofer. Set in accordance with the size or bass output of the main/satellite speakers. For Bronze Series speakers, set between 50 – 100Hz. Experimentation is advisable.

5. Volume Control: Adjusts the level or volume for a balanced overall sound. Play familiar music or film excerpts, starting with the volume at minimum and increasing until a balanced sound is established. With an AV processor or receiver, use the test tone function for adjustment. When correctly set up, the subwoofer's location should be undetectable.
6. Bass Switch: Tailors the bass response. Settings include Music (flat response down to 35Hz), Movies (-2dB down on Movie mode, lower to 30Hz), and Impact (+3dB up on Movie mode, down to 40Hz).
7. Phase Control Switch: Synchronizes any delay between the subwoofer and main/satellite speakers for a full-bodied sound. Sit in a normal listening position while adjusting. Experimentation is advised; typically set to 0 degrees.
8. Power Mode Switch with On-Auto Facility: 'On' position keeps the subwoofer permanently on. 'Auto' position switches the subwoofer on when an input signal is received and stays on for 15 minutes without a signal before entering standby.
• Auto On Function Notes: The subwoofer locks onto the input it was activated by. For stereo or LFE input, this is usually not an issue. If using both, toggling between inputs may require the subwoofer to enter standby.
9. Mains Power Switch: Switch to ‘Off' when unused for extended periods. Must be ‘On' for operation. WARNING: Ensure the rear panel is accessible as the switch is located there.
10. IEC Mains Power Connector/ Fuse Location: Use only the provided IEC mains lead. An external mains fuse is fitted. A spare fuse is in the holder. To change the fuse, remove the IEC mains lead and lever out the fuse. Seek authorised service if the fuse blows again. DO NOT attempt to refit a further fuse.
11. Mains Voltage Selector: Factory set for your country's voltage. Do not adjust to prevent damage or fire risk. A clear plastic cover prevents accidental adjustment.

The LED on the top of the cabinet indicates standby (red) or operational (green) mode.

Positioning / Initial Set Up of MRW-10

Leave the subwoofer unplugged from the mains until installation is complete. Site the subwoofer in the most suitable position. Corner placement may cause excessive bass 'boom'. Check cable reach without tension. For initial trials, set controls as follows:

• Volume Control: Minimum
• Frequency Control: 12 o'clock position
• Phase Control: Zero degrees
• Power Mode Switch: 'On'
• By Pass Filter Switch: 'On' for AV, 'Off' for 2 channel listening.

Input connections can be made before connecting power.

Set Up

Never connect or disconnect leads with the subwoofer connected to the mains.

• Once input cables are connected and controls are set, connect to mains power and switch on.
• For AV amp/receiver use, run the AV amp's auto set up. Adjust gain or crossover frequency on the AV amp, or subwoofer level as necessary. Crossover frequency should be similar to the table on page 6.
• Play familiar movies to check integration and adjust levels or crossover frequency.
• For stereo amp use, set the crossover frequency control according to the table on page 6. Adjust level for integration. Further fine-tuning of the crossover frequency may be required.
• Set the Phase Control (refer to page 7). Try various music and film excerpts for optimum overall settings.

Specifications

Monitor Audio reserves the right to alter specifications without notice.

Trouble Shooting

Should you experience any technical, or set-up problems with your subwoofer please check the Trouble Shooting Guide below:

My subwoofer will not turn on/ no power.

• Is the LED illuminated on the unit? If not, check your mains lead connection at the subwoofer and mains outlet. Also check the fuse of the mains plug and the fuse in the subwoofer (see page 8 for fuse information).
• Is the LED red? If so, you have power, but there may be no signal.
• Is there a signal going to the subwoofer? Check if the Power Mode Switch is in 'Auto' or 'On' position and the source is turned on. Try adjusting the volume level and switching to 'On'.
• If it still does not turn on/ power up, please contact your local dealer/ distributor or Monitor Audio immediately.

No sound from subwoofer.

• Is the LED red or green? If red, the unit hasn't turned on (see above). If green, it is powered up.
• Are the signal leads connected correctly? Check them. Try a second, known working set.
• Is the volume level very low?
• If it still does not output a signal, please contact your local dealer/ distributor or Monitor Audio immediately.

Owner Information

Product Details

• Model: ............................................................................
• Product Serial No: ............................................................................
• Date of Purchase: ............................................................................

Dealer Details

• Dealer Name: ............................................................................
• Address: ............................................................................
• E-mail address: ............................................................................
• Telephone Number: ............................................................................

Guarantee

The craftsmanship and performance of this product are guaranteed against manufacturing defects for five years for speakers from the date of purchase (see Important Safety Instructions booklet), provided the product was supplied by an authorised Monitor Audio retailer under the consumer sale agreement.

To help find your warranty details, please register your product(s) online at: www.monitoraudio.com