Sonance Invisible Series Speakers Installation 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 must ensure compliance 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 (radiators, heat registers, stoves, fireplaces, amplifiers).
8. Use only Sonance-specified attachments/accessories.
9. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

Box Contents

IS6 | IS8 | IS10:

• (2) Invisible Speakers with Cutout Templates
• (4) Wire Nuts
• (2) Stainless Steel Screw Sets
• (8) 1/16" (1.6mm) Shims
• (8) 1/8" (3.18mm) Shims

IS10W:

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

Product Description

Sonance Invisible Series speakers, featuring Motion Flex Technology, offer advanced acoustic performance and installation enhancements for diverse applications. 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 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; use own shims for thicker substrates.
• Supports finish-up-to or finish-over with up to 1/8" (3mm) flexible topping compound or finish material.
• Compatible with 16" (406mm) and 12" (305mm) on-center framing.
• 170-degree hemispherical dispersion (IS6/IS8/IS10); 180-degree hemispherical dispersion (IS10W).
• Embedded depth discs enable finish thickness verification with the optional DG-1 DISC System Depth Gauge (SKU 93491).
• Optional sound-isolating enclosure provides up to 20dB sound reduction.
• Per-transducer poly fuses offer over-current protection.
• 15-year limited warranty.

Product Diagrams and Features

The speakers feature mounting points for attachment to framing. A paper facing ensures finishes over the speaker and surrounding drywall dry at the same rate. A 0.02" (0.5mm) beveled edge allows for seamless joints. The Sonance DISC system consists of four steel discs embedded behind the speaker diaphragm for accurate finish thickness measurement. Mounting points are available for optional sound-isolating enclosures. The back width is 9.49" (241mm), accommodating 12" (305mm) on-center stud and joist spacing. The speaker lead is 12" (305mm).

Product Preparation

Amplifier Selection

Sonance DSP Amplifiers are highly recommended for Invisible Series speakers. They feature preloaded curves for optimal performance and effortless calibration. The IS10W woofer specifically requires a Sonance DSP amplifier. Sonance DSP Amplifiers are stable down to 2 Ohms. Never connect more than two Invisible Speakers in parallel on one amplifier channel.

Note: Select an amplifier with maximum RMS watts per channel at 4 ohms that closely matches or is less than the speaker's rated power handling (see page 16). Exceeding speaker power capabilities can damage the speaker or installed finish.

Wire Gauge - 8 Ohm Systems

For 8 Ohm systems, total wire resistance should be less than 10% of the speaker impedance (nominally 6 Ohms). Total wire resistance should not exceed 0.6 Ohms. Excessive wire resistance negatively impacts sound quality, reducing dynamics and high frequencies. Amplifier power is also wasted in the wire.

Speaker Locations

Invisible Series speakers (IS6, IS8, IS10) have a 170-degree hemispherical dispersion pattern, while the IS10W woofer has a 180-degree pattern. For optimal coverage and to avoid damage, wall-mount speakers at least 7 feet (2.13 meters) above the finished floor or install them in ceilings. Ensure speakers are not covered by cabinetry, draperies, or art. When installing in walls, orient the Wave Flex Drive Unit away from the ceiling; when installing in ceilings, orient it away from walls. Ensure adequate clearance behind the speaker for building systems and to avoid adverse sound effects.

Installation Accessories

Space savers and preconstruction zip rings aid trade coordination. Space savers reserve speaker location dimensions during construction and protect speaker wire. Zip rings simplify drywall cutouts for projects with many speakers. Contact Sonance for zip ring availability.

Finish Materials

Use flexible materials like slow-setting drywall mud/topping compound, wallpaper, or acrylic-based Venetian plaster. The total finish thickness should not exceed 3mm (1/8"). For optimal performance, aim for 1.0mm to 1.5mm (1/16") of topping compound. Wood veneer finishes should use only 20mil (0.5mm) veneer with paper backing. Do not use stiff or hard-setting materials like fast-setting drywall mud ("hot mud"), genuine Venetian plaster, stucco, metal panels, or tile, as they restrict movement and degrade sound quality.

Project Management

Precise installation ensures optimal performance and invisibility. Effective project management and coordination with trades are crucial. Conduct a pre-finishing walk-through to check for anomalies. Obtain sign-offs on audio performance from all parties. Emphasize to the finish manager the importance of using minimal, flexible finish material (1.0-1.5mm recommended, max 3mm). Use the Sonance DISC system and DG-1 depth gauge to validate finish thickness. If speakers do not sound as expected after drying, the finish thickness may be too great and require correction. It is difficult and costly to fix excess finish material after flooring and furniture are installed.

Example Checklist:

For CAD files, dimensions, and technical information, visit www.sonance.com/in-wall-in-ceiling/invisible-series.

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

This diagram illustrates installation for 16" (406mm) on-center framing. It shows framing support above and below the speaker, with face block orientation to prevent speaker wire interference. Included 1/8" (3mm) shims are installed around the speaker's perimeter. The installation uses included stainless steel screws and accommodates 5/8" (15mm) or 1/2" (12.5mm) drywall. Topping compound or other flexible finish material is applied over the speaker.

Installation Detail - 12" (305mm) On-Center

This diagram illustrates installation for 12" (305mm) on-center framing. It shows framing support above and below the speaker, with face block orientation to prevent speaker wire interference. Included 1/8" (3mm) shims are installed around the speaker's perimeter. The installation uses included stainless steel screws and accommodates 5/8" (15mm) or 1/2" (12.5mm) drywall. Topping compound or other flexible finish material is applied over the speaker. Additional support is shown for the speaker frame and drywall joint.

Retrofit Installation

1. Remove the cutout template from the speaker.
2. Locate studs, mark centers, and affix the template, ensuring it's centered on studs.
3. Mark around the template and remove it. Keep the template for DISC system measurements.
4. Perform an obstruction survey to check for studs, conduit, pipes, HVAC ducts, etc.
5. Cut drywall using a drywall saw and utility knife along stud centerlines. An oscillating power saw is recommended.
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 cut-out holes. Refer to the wiring chart on page 4.
9. Reinforce top and bottom joint locations with 2x4 blocking or 3/4" (19mm) plywood. Ensure a flush, level surface around the speaker perimeter.
10. Optional: Secure the sound-isolating enclosure (sold separately) to the back of the speaker.

Sound-Isolating Enclosure Part Numbers:

Proceed to Step 9 on page 10.

New Construction Installation

1. Run speaker wire from the amplifier to desired speaker locations. Refer to page 4 for wire gauge.
2. Reinforce top and bottom joint locations with 2x4 blocking or 3/4" (19mm) plywood. Ensure a flush, level surface around the speaker perimeter. Refer to construction diagrams and the opening height chart.

Opening Height for Top/Bottom Joint Supports:

3. Place space saver, preconstruction zip ring bracket, or both in the desired speaker location. Space savers are recommended for all new construction; zip rings are a time-saver for large projects.
4. Use the space saver/zip ring's wire management to secure cables. Screw the bracket to studs, ensuring it is horizontally centered, using a level.
5. Complete drywall installation around the speaker locations. Sonance recommends using the included stainless steel screws to avoid interfering with the DISC system depth gauge operation.
6. Optional: Secure the sound-isolating enclosure (sold separately) to the back of the speaker.

Sound-Isolating Enclosure Part Numbers:

Installation Steps (Continued)

7. 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.
8. Optional: If a zip ring was used, cut the drywall using a zip tool and the ring as a guide. The zip ring stays in place permanently.
9. Install shims as needed. 1/2" (12.5mm) drywall typically requires no shims. For thicker substrates like 5/8" (15mm) drywall, use the included 1/8" (3mm) shim. Thin 1/16" (1.6mm) shims are also provided for various substrates. Ensure all four speaker edges are supported for a flush surface.
10. Connect the speaker wire to the speaker leads using the included wire nuts.
11. Place the speaker into the opening. For ceiling installations, hold the speaker by the frame edge, not the diaphragm center, and use assistance. Secure the speaker with at least four included stainless steel screws in each corner.

Note: Using stainless steel screws for surrounding drywall also improves DISC system accuracy.

12. Ensure the speaker diaphragm center is flush with the surrounding drywall. Adjust shims if necessary.
13. IMPORTANT: Test the speaker with an audio source at moderate listening levels before completing installation.
14. Secure the speaker to the surface with remaining stainless steel screws on all sides. Do not over-tighten.

Pre-Finishing Testing Guidelines

Once a finish is applied, audio connection or installation issues cannot be easily fixed.

Installation Fit Test

Use a straight edge across the speaker face to verify the diaphragm is co-planar with the surrounding drywall. The beveled edge may be recessed from adjacent drywall.

Audio Test

Connect a high-quality audio source and Sonance amplifier. Adjust output to a moderate volume. Play music to check fidelity and listen for buzzes or rattles. A slow tone sweep from 20Hz to 5kHz can help identify buzzing sources (loose studs, screws, drywall, cable vibration, etc.).

Fix any installation or audio issues before proceeding. Follow project management practices from page 5.

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 entire wall plane) is best for smooth consistency.

1. Fill the gap between 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. Do not tape over the raised portion of the speaker.
5. Allow hot mud to fully cure and harden.
6. Once cured, cover joints with slow-setting compound.
7. Allow the first coat to fully cure (12-24 hours).

Note: Do not use fast-setting compound to cover the speaker; it lacks flexibility. Use lightweight all-purpose joint compound to cover joints and feather to the speaker surface. Lightweight, easy-sand topping compound is recommended for covering the speaker.

Important: For a "Finish Up To" installation, multiple paint layers may be needed for a shadow-less blend. A "Finish Over" process, applying an additional skim coat over the entire speaker and wall, is recommended for a more seamless, shadowless finish and takes less time.

Recommended Drywall Compounds:

Finish Thickness Guidelines

Excessive finish material thickness can adversely affect sound quality and installation durability.

• Total Finish Thickness for Optimal Performance: 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 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.

10. Apply a second coat of topping compound covering the entire speaker surface and adjoining areas.
11. Compound buildup on the speaker surface should 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.
15. After the final coat is dry, use a manual pole or block sander on the entire wall. Do not use a power sander, as it can damage the speaker surface. Be careful not to sand into the speaker's paper, which can make blending difficult. The wall surface should appear seamless.
16. Validate finish thickness using the Sonance DISC system and DG-1 depth gauge (SKU 93491).
17. Perform a final audio test. Verify that audio quality and performance have not changed significantly since the initial test before finishing. Address any audible anomalies or surface imperfections now.

Your Sonance Invisible speaker installation is now complete. Proceed with your normal finishing methods using flexible materials like paint, wallpaper, or veneer.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• 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 walls, mount at least 7' (2.13m) from the floor. For ceilings, space evenly for optimal coverage and avoid corners. Contact Sonance Tech Support / Design Services for layout planning.
• What is the minimum depth requirement? Minimum depth without enclosure is ~2.75" (70mm); with enclosure, ~3.5" (90mm).
• Can IS speakers be used in a plenum space? Only models with a "T" suffix (e.g., IS8T) are UL2043 rated for plenum use. Standard models (IS6, IS8, IS10, IS10W) are not.
• Can these speakers be installed in a T-Bar ceiling? Theoretically yes, but consult the T-Bar ceiling manufacturer regarding load limits for the speaker weight.
• Can these be used outside? No, Sonance invisible speakers are not outdoor rated.
• Can these be used in high heat or high humidity applications? Avoid direct exposure. Use finishing materials rated for high heat/humidity that form a protective barrier. Mock-up trials are recommended.
• What finish materials can I use with invisible speakers? Can these be covered with wallpaper or wood veneer? Use flexible materials: slow-setting, lightweight drywall compounds, wallpaper, wood veneer, vinyl veneer, 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 (e.g., tile, metal sheet, stone veneer, true Venetian plaster, stucco). These restrict movement and degrade sound.
• How much finish material can go over the speaker? 1.0mm to 1.5mm is recommended for optimal performance; 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 actual finish thickness.
• What is the DISC system? The Sonance DISC System uses the DG-1 gauge and embedded steel discs to accurately measure finish thickness non-destructively.
• What if I add too much finish material? Before final finishing, sand the surface and measure thickness with the DG-1 gauge. Repeat as needed until thickness is 3mm or less. 1.0mm-1.5mm is recommended.
• Is there a benefit to "Finish Up To" rather than "Finish Over"? No practical benefit. "Finish Over" is recommended for a more seamless, shadowless finish and typically takes less time. Optimal finish thickness is 1.0mm to 1.5mm.
• What happens if the mud or finish cracks? Cracks may indicate improper finishing or overdriven speakers. Integrated poly fuses protect drivers but not always the finish. If cracks occur, Sonance can help troubleshoot, often related to excessive finish thickness. The DISC system helps prevent this.
• Can I use other than Sonance DSP amplifiers? Yes, but Sonance DSP amps are recommended for their preset curves. Match amplifier RMS power to speaker power handling to avoid damage. Always use Sonance DSP amplifiers for Sonance IS woofers and subwoofers.
• Are these suitable for surround sound? Yes, use with a subwoofer and an 80Hz high pass filter. Utilize the AV receiver's built-in room correction for best performance.
• Are Sound-Isolating Enclosures required? No, they are optional.
• What's the benefit of Sound-Isolating enclosures? They provide broadband noise reduction (approx. 20dB), reducing sound transference to adjacent spaces.
• Are Sound-Isolating Enclosures UL rated? No.
• 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 substrate and local codes.
• I lost the shims. How can I get more? Do I have to buy them from Sonance? Standard drywall shims from your local hardware store can be used.
• Is there a protection circuit built into the speaker or do they need to be added? Full-range IS speakers (IS6/IS8/IS10) have dual, self-resetting poly fuses per transducer. Woofers have a single fuse. If overdriven, fuses trip, ceasing sound to protect drivers and surfaces. Fuses reset after a few minutes. Tripping indicates overdriving; reduce volume or add more speakers.
• What is the warranty on IS invisible speakers, and what does the warranty cover? A 15-year limited warranty covers the cost to replace the speaker(s) and refinishing up to a level 5 drywall finish.

Technical Assistance and Service

The Sonance Technical Assistance Department is available at (949) 492-7777, Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pacific Time, for operation and installation questions. For repair or service, return the unit to your authorized dealer or follow these guidelines:

PLEASE KEEP ORIGINAL PACKAGING WHEN POSSIBLE.

1. When calling, be prepared to provide the model/serial number, purchase date, and dealer information.
2. Contact Sonance at (949) 492-7777 or www.sonance.com. Prior authorization (RMA) is required before returning any unit.
3. If returning directly to Sonance, call for an RMA number before shipping.
4. Ship via United Parcel Service, Federal Express, or other package delivery service (not U.S. Postal Service).
5. Include the RMA number on the shipping label, not directly on the carton.
6. 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 date of purchase, provided it was purchased from an authorized Sonance Dealer/Distributor. Sonance will, at its option and expense, repair or replace the Product. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. No modifications to this warranty are authorized. Sonance is not liable for consequential, incidental, or personal injury damages arising from the product. This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by state. Some states may not allow exclusion of implied warranties or limitation of remedies. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of Sonance's express warranty. The warranty is nontransferable, applies only to the initial installation, and does not cover installation of repaired/replaced products, damage to allied equipment, or issues caused by accident, disaster, negligence, improper installation, misuse, or unauthorized service. To qualify for warranty service, contact your authorized Sonance Dealer/Installer or Sonance Customer Service at (949) 492-7777 within the warranty period, obtain an RMA, and ship the Product 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. Visit www.sonance.com for the latest information.

SONANCE, 991 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente, CA 92673 USA. PHONE: (949) 492-7777, FAX: (949) 361-5151, Technical Support: (949) 492-7777, www.sonance.com.