Earthquake Sound SM6BT Professional Studio Monitor

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Earthquake Sound SM6BT professional active studio monitor. This manual contains general safety, installation, and operating instructions. It is important to read this user's manual before attempting to use this product. Pay particular attention to the safety instructions.

The SM6BT studio monitor is designed to deliver accurate audio reproduction, sound clarity, transparent performance with low distortion, and exceptional imaging. Every component has been carefully selected to meet the demands of audiophiles and professionals worldwide.

Equipped with a bi-amplified Class AB amplifier, the SM6BT accepts unbalanced (RCA) and balanced (1/4" TRS and XLR) inputs, as well as True Wireless Stereo Bluetooth® 5.3 connectivity. If extra bass is needed, a subwoofer output is available to connect a powered subwoofer for a complete 2.1 audio system. The SM6BT also features a high-frequency adjustment control to tailor the sound to your listening preferences.

The drivers feature a stiff and low-mass 6-inch carbon fiber cone woofer for extremely low harmonic distortion and a 2-inch wide band ribbon tweeter for ultra-clear, detailed, and dynamic treble output. Integrating these components ensures balance, transparency, and neutral audio reproduction. Discover details in music and movies that you never thought were possible.

Illustration of the Earthquake Sound SM6BT professional studio monitor: a compact, black, rectangular speaker with a large woofer on the front and a tweeter above it.

Safety Instructions

Safety First

This documentation contains general safety, installation, and operating instructions for the SM6BT studio monitors. It is important to read this user's manual before attempting to use this product. Pay particular attention to the safety instructions.

Symbols Explained

• CAUTION: ⚠️ Appears on the component to indicate the presence of uninsulated, dangerous voltage inside the enclosure – voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.
• WARNING: ❗ Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in injury or death.
• Note: ℹ️ Calls attention to any information that is essential to highlight.

CAUTION symbol: A triangle with a lightning bolt inside, indicating the presence of uninsulated, dangerous voltage.

WARNING symbol: A triangle with an exclamation mark inside, indicating a procedure that could result in injury or death.

Note symbol: An 'i' in a circle, indicating essential information.

Safety Precautions (Continued)

1. Read these instructions in their entirety.
2. Store this manual and packaging in a safe place.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow instructions (do not take shortcuts).
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatuses that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. The grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only a compatible rack or cart for the final resting position.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storm or when unused for a long period of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in a way such as: power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

Unpacking System Components

• Keep the original carton and packing materials for future shipment or storage of your product/s.
• Check for any visual signs of damage. If you encounter any concealed damage, consult your Earthquake Sound dealer before proceeding with unit installation.
• Retain the sales receipt as it establishes the duration for the limited warranty and provides information for insurance purposes.

Warranty Information

5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION

Earthquake Sound warrants the original purchaser that all Factory Sealed New Audio products be free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal and proper use, for a period of five (5) year from the date of purchase (as shown on the original sales receipt with serial number affixed/written on it). The one (1) year warranty period is valid only if the product is properly installed by an Earthquake Sound authorized party and the warranty registration card is properly filled out and sent to Earthquake Sound Corporation. If the product is installed by a non-authorized party, a thirty (30) day warranty period applies.

(A) Five (5) year limited warranty guidelines:

• First Year: Earthquake pays for labor, parts and ground freight (US Mainland only, not including Alaska and Hawaii.) Shipping to us is not covered.
• Second, Third, Fourth, & Fifth Year: Earthquake pays labor only. Customer must pay for parts and freight both ways.

(B) Warning:

• Products (sent for repair) that are tested by Earthquake technicians and deemed to have no problem(s) will not be covered by the limited warranty. Customer will be charged a minimum of one (1) hour of labor (at ongoing rate) plus the shipping charges back to the customer.
• Each product sent in for repair must be packaged in its original packaging. Otherwise, repackaging charges will apply in addition to the labor, parts, and shipping charges.

(C) Earthquake agrees to repair or replace - at our discretion - all such defective products/parts subject to the following provisions:

• Defective products/parts have not been altered or repaired by other than an Earthquake factory approved technician.
• Products/parts are not subjected to negligence, misuse, accident, or damaged by improper line voltage.
• Products/parts were used with incompatible products.
• The serial number or any part of the product has been altered, defaced, or removed.
• Products/parts have been used in any way that is contrary to Earthquake's written instructions.

(D) Warranty Limitations:

Earthquake warranty does not cover products that have been modified or abused, including but not limited to the following:

• Damage due to misuse, abuse, or improper cleaning materials/methods.
• Bent speaker frame, broken connectors, hole(s) in speaker cone, hole(s) in surround or dist cap, and burnt speaker voice coil.
• Fading and/or deterioration of speaker components & finish due to improper exposure to elements.
• Burnt tracers found on the printed circuit boards (PCB).
• Product/part damaged due to poor packaging or abusive shipping conditions.
• Subsequent damage to other products.

A warranty claim will not be valid if the warranty registration card is not properly filled & returned to Earthquake with a copy of the sales invoice.

(E) Service Request:

To receive product(s) service, contact Earthquake Sound's service department at (510) 732-1000 or tech@earthquakesound.com and request an RMA (Return Material Authorization) number as item(s) shipped without a valid RMA number will be refused. Make sure you provide us with your complete and correct shipping address, a valid daytime phone number, and a brief description of the problem you are experiencing with the product. In most cases, our technicians might be able to resolve the problem over the phone or via e-mail, thus eliminating the need to ship the product.

(F) Shipping Instructions:

Product(s) must be packaged inside its original protective box(es) to minimize transportation damage. Shipper claims regarding items damaged in transit must be presented to carrier. Earthquake Sound Corporation reserves the right to refuse improperly packaged product(s). A copy of the original sales receipt must accompany the product(s) returned for service. Ship the product(s) to: Earthquake Sound Corporation. 2727 McCone Avenue. Hayward, CA 94545. The customer is responsible for the cost of shipping the product(s) to Earthquake Sound Corporation.

(G) Disputes Resolution:

All disputes - between clients and Earthquake Sound Corporation - resulting from the one (1) year limited warranty policy must be resolved according to the laws & regulations of the county of Alameda, California.

Amplifier Features & Inputs

The SM6BT features a comprehensive set of inputs and controls on its rear panel.

1. Unbalanced RCA Input: RCA input for connecting the SM6BT monitor to your TV, computer, DJ equipment, mobile device, etc.

2a. Balanced XLR Input: 10kOhm balanced XLR input for connecting the SM6BT monitor to your audio interface or mixer.

2b. Balanced 1/4" TRS Input: 10kOhm balanced TRS input for connecting the SM6BT monitor to your audio interface or mixer. For best result, be sure to use a balanced 1/4 inch TRS phone plug.

NOTE: Connect only one input source at a time.

Diagram showing connector types: Balanced TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) and Unbalanced TS (Tip, Sleeve).

Pinout for XLR/TRS: Pin 1 = Sleeve (Shield) = Ground (cable shield), Pin 2 = Tip = Positive/Red/Hot, Pin 3 = Ring = Negative/Black/Cold.

Illustration of the rear panel of the SM6BT monitor with numbered controls and inputs:

• 1. Unbalanced RCA Input: For connecting various audio sources.
• 2a. Balanced XLR Input: For professional audio connections.
• 2b. Balanced 1/4" TRS Input: For professional audio connections.
• 3. Power Switch: Turns the monitor on or off.
• 4. AC Input: Connection for the power cord.
• 5. AC Voltage Selector: Switch to select between 110-120V and 220-240V AC.
• 6. Input (+) SUB OUT: Output for connecting a powered subwoofer.
• 7. TWS Pairing: For True Wireless Stereo pairing.
• 8. PAIRING (BT 5.3): Bluetooth pairing button for wireless connectivity.
• 9. INPUT SELECTOR: Switches between RCA, TRS/XLR, and Bluetooth inputs.
• 10. LED Indicator: Shows the status of the monitor (e.g., power, pairing).
• 11. LEVEL: Adjusts the overall volume.
• 12. HF TRIM: High-Frequency adjustment control (-2dB, -1dB, 0dB, +1dB).
• 13. Fuse Holder: Houses the AC fuse.

Diagram illustrating balanced TRS and unbalanced TS connectors, reiterating pin functions.

Troubleshooting

If the monitor is still unresponsive

If the monitor is unresponsive, please contact Earthquake Sound technical service.

The Sound Quality Changes

1. Perform the previous troubleshooting steps before proceeding with the next steps.
2. Disconnect the signal cable at the monitor's input. With the monitor powered on, position your ear close to each driver (tweeter/woofer) and listen for any noise (i.e., a slight hiss or hum). If no noise of any kind is heard, one or more of the drivers (woofer, tweeter, or both) may be faulty. It is also possible that the problem lies elsewhere in the electronics.
3. Reconnect the signal cable to the monitor's input and play some non-distorted source material at low volume. Carefully cover the tweeter to block the sound. If the woofer sounds distorted or has no sound, it may have been internally disconnected or needs replacing.
4. Play the same non-distorted source material but cover the woofer instead so that the tweeter is mainly heard. If the sound from the tweeter is not of clear tonal quality or if there is no sound at all, then the tweeter may have been internally disconnected or needs replacing.

The Monitor Produces Hisses, Hums, or Other Loud Noises

• Ensure that the power cord is firmly plugged into the monitor.
• Inspect the connection between the signal source and the monitor. Note that the SM6BT's XLR and 1/4" TRS connectors are entirely balanced. If you connect an unbalanced signal to the monitor, use Pin 2 for the signal and tie Pin 1 and 3 together at the source end.
• Make sure the AC mains match the operating voltage requirements.
• Ensure all audio equipment in your system uses the same ground point. Avoid connecting dimmers, neon signs, TV screens, and computer monitors to the same AC output of your audio equipment.

Compliance Information

FCC Warning

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.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• —Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• —Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• —Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• —Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Note: The Grantee is not responsible for any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance. Such modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

The device has been evaluated to meet general RF exposure requirement. To maintain compliance with FCC's RF exposure guidelines, the distance must be at least 20 cm between the radiator and your body, and fully supported by the operating and installation.

[FCC] [CE] Logos indicating compliance with FCC and CE regulations.