Sonance Invisible Series IS6T Speaker Manual

Important Safety Instructions

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 any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
7. Do not install near a heat source such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, fireplaces, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
8. Only use attachments/accessories specified by Sonance.
9. To be installed in indoor locations only.
10. Refer all servicing to qualified service 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

Product Description

The Sonance Invisible Series speakers featuring Motion Flex Technology offer a suite of advancements in speaker engineering that delivers unparalleled acoustic performance and installation enhancements that allow a wider range of applications with more consistent results. Together these performance and installation improvements redefine what is possible from an invisible speaker.

This line of full-range speakers and woofers incorporate Wave Flex drive units, carbon fiber Air Flex woofers, and acoustically-isolated baffles, allowing for up to 180 degrees of smooth off-axis response.

The innovative Sonance DISC System enables non-destructive measurement of the finish thickness for consistent and repeatable installation results.

Sonance DSP amplifier presets should be used to maximize the performance of any Invisible Series system.

Features

• In-wall or In-ceiling installation
• Compatible with 1/2" (12.5mm) & 5/8" (15mm) drywall using included shims. Supply your 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 reproduction.
• Embedded depth discs allow the installer to verify the finish material thickness with the optional DG-1 DISC System Depth Gauge (SKU 93491).
• Integrated, sealed metal rear enclosure for consistent installs in commercial applications.
• UL 1480A and UL 2043 Listed.
• Per-transducer poly fuses integrated into every speaker allow extra protection of each transducer from over-current.
• 15 year limited warranty.

Diagram: Front, Back, and Side views showing mounting points for attachment to framing, paper facing to ensure finishes over the speaker and surrounding drywall dry at the same rate, a 0.02" (0.5mm) beveled edge for seamless joints, the Sonance DISC system with four steel discs embedded behind the speaker diaphragm for accurate finish thickness measurement, an integrated metal rear enclosure, and an input terminal cover with knockout and cable strain relief.

70 Volt Applications

The Sonance Invisible Series IS6T includes a 70V/100V Sonance Laminated Core Transformer with an adjustable tap.

Setting the 70V Tap

1. Using a #2 Phillips head screwdriver, remove the two screws securing the terminal cover plate.
2. When using speaker wire without conduit, run the wire through the hole on the terminal cover plate. Wire needs to be clamped as required by national or local codes. Connect the wires to the terminal block, being certain to connect the positive wire to the terminal marked '+' and the negative wire to the terminal marked '-'. When using conduit, attach the conduit connector to the terminal cover plate, then connect the wires to the terminal block, being certain to connect the positive wire to the terminal marked '+' and the negative wire to the terminal marked '-'.
3. Using a flat head screwdriver, set the transformer tap to the correct tap setting for your installation. We strongly recommend testing the system with music to determine the correct output level.

WARNING: Do not mount and finish over the speaker until you have selected the necessary tap setting to achieve the desired volume level. After selecting a given tap, play the speaker with an actual audio signal to verify the speaker provides adequate volume. If necessary, re-select a lower or higher tap setting.

Diagram: 70V Tap Selector Dial showing positions for 70V/100V and power taps (NA, 3.8W, 7.5W, 15W, 30W) for the IS6T speaker.

Diagram: 70V Wiring Diagram illustrating the connection of an amplifier to multiple IS6T speakers using 70V wiring, showing positive and negative connections.

Product Preparation

Amplifier Selection

Sonance DSP Amplifiers are recommended for use with the IS6T speaker. When using the IS6T in 70V/100V, the Sonance DSP-2-750 MKII is recommended. These amplifiers have preloaded curves to optimize performance. Preconfigured curves for various finish types and thicknesses allow for effortless calibration. Sonance DSP Amplifiers are rated down to 4 Ohms and are stable to 2 Ohms. Never run more than two Invisible Speakers in parallel on one amplifier channel.

NOTE: Pay attention to Sonance IS speaker rated RMS power handling. 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). Damage to the speaker or installed finish may occur if the speaker is overdriven.

Wire Gauge - 70V/100V Systems

The most common wire used on commercial 70-volt systems is 18 gauge, 2 conductor, stranded, and jacketed without a shield. The wire starts at the amplifier location and is paralleled at each speaker location.

Wire length using 18 gauge is appropriate up to 700 feet with a 100-watt load. Doubling the load (sum of tap settings) reduces footage by half (350 feet). Halving the load doubles the acceptable wire length (e.g., a 50-watt load is safe over 1400 feet of 18 gauge). Using 16 gauge wire extends the allowable run length by approximately 35%.

Wire Gauge - Low Impedance Systems

When using the product in a low impedance system, the total wire resistance should be less than 10% of the speaker impedance. For the 4 Ohm nominal impedance speakers, total wire resistance should not exceed 0.4 Ohms. Excessive wire resistance negatively affects sound quality, reducing dynamics, bass definition, and high frequencies. Amplifier power is also wasted in the wire, reducing maximum output level.

Speaker Location

Invisible Series IS6T speakers have a 170-degree hemispherical dispersion pattern. For optimal coverage and installation, speakers should be wall-mounted at least 7 feet (2.13 meters) above the finished floor (AFF) or in-ceiling. Avoid corners if possible. Ensure the speaker will not be covered by cabinetry, draperies, art, crown molding, or anything that could cover or puncture it. When installing in walls, face the Wave Flex Drive Unit away from the ceiling. When installing in ceilings, face it away from the walls. Ensure the back of the speaker has clearance and is not adjacent to electrical, HVAC, pipes, fire sprinklers, or other building systems that could violate codes or affect sound quality.

Installation Accessories

Space savers and preconstruction zip rings assist in trade coordination. Space savers reserve precise dimensions and protect speaker wire during construction. They allow delayed speaker installation until just prior to finishing, reducing risk of damage or theft. Preconstruction zip ring brackets can be used with space savers or alone for drywall cutouts using a drywall zip tool, especially for large projects. Zip rings are made-to-order; contact Sonance for bulk pricing.

Finish Materials

Verify that topping compound and final finish materials are flexible (e.g., slow-setting drywall mud, wallpaper, acrylic-based Venetian plaster, thin wood veneer) and do not exceed 3mm (1/8") total thickness. For optimal performance, a topping compound thickness of 1.0 to 1.5mm (about 1/16") is recommended. Excessive thickness adversely affects sound quality and durability. For wood veneer finishes, use only 20mil (0.5mm) veneer with paper backing.

NOTE: Do not use hard-setting or stiff materials like fast-setting drywall mud ("hot mud"), genuine Venetian plaster, stucco, metal panels, or tile over invisible speakers.

Product Management

Follow installation instructions precisely for optimal performance and invisibility. Project management and coordination with drywall and finish trades are crucial. Best practices include:

• Conduct a pre-finishing walk-through with the client, General Contractor, and finish manager to listen to each speaker and identify anomalies.
• Obtain sign-offs on audio performance from all parties, using a checklist.
• Emphasize to the finish manager the importance of using only enough flexible material to conceal the speakers, adhering to the 1.0-1.5mm target and 3mm maximum finish thickness. Review recommended materials.
• Use the Sonance DISC system and DG-1 depth gauge (SKU 93491) to validate finish thickness. Lending the gauge to the finish manager is helpful.
• After finish material dries, perform another listening check. If sound quality has changed, the finish thickness likely exceeds 3mm (1/8") and needs correction by removing material.
• Address finish issues before flooring and furniture are installed, as post-installation correction is costly and complex.

Effective project management, sign-offs, and communication prevent unexpected results and ensure beautiful, consistent installs.

Additional Information

For CAD files, detailed dimensions, and other technical information, scan the QR code or visit www.sonance.com/in-wall-in-ceiling/invisible-series.

Diagram: QR Code linking to additional information and resources for Sonance Invisible Series speakers.

Diagram: Example Checklist titled "SONANCE INVISIBLE SPEAKERS AUDIO PERFORMANCE SIGN-OFF CHECKLIST" with fields for Project Name, Room #, Room Description, Model, Serial #, Pre-Finishing Audio Test Approval (checkbox), Measured Finish Thickness (mm), and Post-Finishing Audio Test Approval (checkbox) for multiple speakers, plus signature and date fields.

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

Diagram: Shows a 16" (406mm) on-center installation with 5/8" (15mm) drywall and framing support. Includes detail views of included 1/8" (3mm) shims installed around the speaker perimeter and included stainless steel screws. Another diagram shows the speaker mounted between framing studs with drywall and topping compound.

Retrofit Installation

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

Diagram: Illustrates drywall cutting techniques: using a drywall saw for top/bottom cuts up to stud edges, and a utility knife for stud centerlines and horizontal cuts.

New Construction Installation

1. Run speaker wire from the amplifier and audio component location to desired speaker locations. Refer to page 5 for wire gauge chart.
2. Reinforce top and bottom joint locations with face-block-oriented 2x4 or 3/4" (19mm) plywood. Refer to the construction diagram on page 7 and the chart for opening height dimensions. Ensure a flush, level surface around the speaker location perimeter.
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 wire management built into the space saver/zip ring to secure cables. Screw the space saver/zip ring to the studs, ensuring it is horizontally centered using a level.
5. Complete drywall installation for the room, including the area around the speakers. NOTE: Sonance recommends using 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.
6. Remove the space saver, if applicable. Pull the speaker wire through the opening, being careful not to damage the surrounding drywall. The space saver can be kept for future use 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 zip ring. The zip ring stays in place permanently.
8. Install shims as needed. Half-inch (12.5mm) drywall typically doesn't require shims. For thicker substrates like 5/8" (15mm) drywall, use the included 1/8" (3mm) shim to bring the speaker flush. Thin 1/16" (1.6mm) shims are also included for easier installation in various substrates. NOTE: Ensure all 4 speaker edges (top, bottom, sides) are supported by shims for a flush install surface.
9. Connect the speaker wire from your wall or ceiling to the wire terminals on the speaker and set the tap switch appropriately.
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 using at least 4 of the included stainless steel screws in each corner. NOTE: Using stainless screws to secure the surrounding drywall is best practice, as they are non-magnetic and improve DISC system accuracy.

Diagram: Shows wire management with a space saver/zip ring and securing it to studs.

Diagram: Shows speaker wire connection to the speaker terminals and tap switch.

Diagram: Image showing a person holding a speaker by the frame edge to place it into a ceiling opening.

Diagram: Image showing a person screwing a speaker into place using stainless steel screws.

Pre-Finishing Testing Guidelines

Once a finish is applied, it's too late to fix audio connection 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 and installed correctly. Adjust shims if necessary. The beveled edge of the speaker may be recessed from adjacent drywall.

Audio Test

Connect a high-quality audio source and Sonance amplifier for best results. 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 caused by loose components, cable vibration, or rattling fixtures.

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

Finishing Instructions

NOTE: Drywall finishes vary in smoothness. A level four finish (feathered and sanded seams) is recommended. For best results, a level five finish (skim-coated and sanded wall plane) is recommended for smooth consistency.

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 the 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 has cured, cover joints with slow-setting compound.
8. Feather all surfaces around the joints and up to the raised portion of 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, as it lacks flexibility for a durable finish. Use lightweight all-purpose joint compound to cover joints and feather to the speaker surface. Lightweight, easy-sand topping compound should be used for covering the speaker.

IMPORTANT: If a perfectly flat finish is achieved, you may proceed to priming and painting ("Finish Up To" installation). Multiple paint layers are recommended for shadow-less blending. A "Finish Over" process, applying an additional skim coat over the entire speaker and wall, is recommended as it takes less time and provides a more seamless, shadowless finish.

Diagram: Image showing application of joint compound to fill gaps between speaker and drywall.

Diagram: Image showing feathering compound edges with a trowel.

Diagram: Image showing application of mesh tape over drywall seams.

Diagram: Image showing application of joint compound over mesh tape.

Diagram: Image showing application of slow-setting compound to cover joints.

Diagram: Image showing feathering compound around joints and up to the speaker diaphragm.

Diagram: Image showing application of a second coat of topping compound.

Diagram: Image showing detailing compound to minimize tool marks.

Diagram: Image showing multiple coats of compound being applied.

Finish Thickness Guidelines

Sound quality and installation durability are adversely affected if finish materials are applied too thick.

• 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).

Do not use hard-setting or stiff materials (e.g., fast-setting drywall mud, Venetian plaster, stucco, metal panels, tile) over invisible speakers. Use only flexible materials.

When using flexible sheet materials like wallpaper or veneer, ensure the total thickness of drywall compound, adhesives, and the 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 surface of the speaker and all adjoining surfaces.
11. Compound buildup on the active surface of the speaker 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 coat thinner than the last. The final coat should be a very light skim coat.
15. After the final coat is applied and has dried, use a manual pole sander or block sander on the entire wall. Do not use a power sander, as it could damage the speaker surface, making perfect blending difficult. Wall surface should show no signs of a speaker.
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 and verify that audio quality and performance have not significantly changed since the initial listening test before finishing. This is the time to fix any audible anomalies or surface imperfections.

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

Diagram: Image showing application of topping compound to the speaker surface and adjoining areas.

Diagram: Image showing detailing compound to minimize tool marks.

Diagram: Image showing a manual sander being used on the wall surface.

Diagram: Image showing the Sonance DG-1 depth gauge being used to validate finish thickness.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range (-3dB): 50Hz-20kHz
• Power Capacity: 100 Watts (RMS)
• Nominal Sensitivity: 84dB
• Dispersion: 170º Hemispherical up to 10kHz
• Rated Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Transformer: 30W with Sonance Laminated Core Technology
• Transformer Taps: Primary Taps (70V): 3.8W, 7.5W, 15W, 30W; Primary Taps (100V): 7.5W, 15W, 30W; 4 Ohm Bypass
• Overall Dimensions (WxHxD): 16.10" x 16.10" x 3.86" (409mm x 409mm x 98mm)
• Mounting Depth: 3.39" (86mm)
• Product Weight: 18.41 lbs. (8.35kg) / Each
• Shipping Weight: 24.25 lbs (11kg) / Each
• Unit of Measure: 40198 Each
• LF Driver: 98in² (633cm²) Air Pulse Diaphragm 6.5" (165mm) Carbon Fiber Woofer
• HF Driver: 20in² (127cm²) Bending Wave Diaphragm 1.75” (44mm) Voice Coil
• Overload Protection: Two Independent Self-Resetting Poly Switches
• Safety Agency: UL-1480A, UL-2043, CSA-C22.2 No.205, NFPA-70, and NFPA-90A

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 walls, ensure they are at least 7' (2.13m) from the floor. For ceilings, evenly space speakers 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 is ~3.5" (90mm).
• Can IS speakers be used in a plenum space? Only models with a "T" suffix (e.g., IS8T) are rated for plenum use (UL2043). 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 to ensure load limits are met.
• Can these be used outside? No, Sonance invisible speakers are not outdoor rated.
• Can these be used in high heat or high humidity applications? They should not be directly exposed. Finishing materials rated for high heat/humidity may be used if they form a barrier. A mock-up trial is recommended.
• What finish materials can I use with invisible speakers? Can these be covered with wallpaper or wood veneer? Use flexible materials: slow-setting 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, such as tile, metal sheet, stone veneer, true Venetian plaster, stucco. These restrict movement and muffle sound.
• How much finish material can go over the speaker? 1.0mm to 1.5mm for optimal performance; 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 a magnetic sensor and steel discs embedded in the speaker diaphragm to accurately measure finish thickness non-destructively. The DG-1 gauge measures the distance between the finished surface and these discs.
• 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 and 1.5mm are recommended for optimal performance.
• Is there a benefit to "Finish Up To" rather than "Finish Over"? No practical benefit. "Finish Over" is recommended as it takes less time and results in a more seamless, shadowless finish. IS speakers are optimized for 1.0mm to 1.5mm finish thickness.
• What happens if the mud or finish cracks? Cracks indicate improper finish application or regularly overdriven speakers. Integrated poly fuses protect drivers and surfaces from damage, but excessive use can still cause issues. If cracks occur, Sonance can help troubleshoot, often identifying over-application of finish as the cause. 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 power handling to the speaker's rating (or be less). Overdriving speakers can damage them and the finish. Always use a Sonance DSP amplifier for IS woofers and subwoofers.

Warranty and Support

Lost Screws/Shims

• Screws: Use stainless steel #6 drywall screws of appropriate length for drywall/substrate thickness and local codes.
• Shims: Use standard drywall shims from your local hardware store.

Protection Circuit

Every full-range speaker (IS6T/IS8T) has dual, self-resetting poly fuses per transducer. Woofers have a single poly fuse. These fuses protect the driver and installation surface from damage during overdrive conditions by temporarily muting sound. Fuses reset after a few minutes. If fuses trip frequently, it indicates the speakers are being overdriven; reduce volume or add more speakers.

Warranty Coverage

The 15-Year limited warranty covers the cost to replace the speaker(s) and refinishing up to a level 5 drywall finish.

Certifications

Sonance Invisible Series IS6T speaker models meet the following standards: UL-1480A (Speakers for Fire Protective Signaling Systems), UL-2043 (Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release), CSA-C22.2 No.205 (Signaling Equipment), NFPA-70 (National Electric Code), NFPA-90A (Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilation), CSA C22.1 (Canadian Electrical Code).

Technical Assistance and Service

Contact Sonance Technical Assistance at (949) 492-7777, Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pacific Time. For repair or service, keep original packaging. Be prepared to provide model/serial number, purchase date, and dealer information. Contact Sonance or an authorized dealer for return authorization (RMA) before shipping. Ship via UPS, Federal Express, or other package delivery service (not U.S. Postal Service). Include RMA number on the shipping label, not the carton. Ship to: Attn: Quality Assurance Department, RMA#, 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. Sonance will, at its option, repair or replace the product. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied. Sonance is not liable for consequential, incidental, economic, property, bodily injury, or personal injury damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state. Limitations and exclusions apply, including those related to improper installation, misuse, unauthorized service, and damage to allied equipment. To qualify for warranty service, contact an 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 without notice. Visit www.sonance.com for the latest product 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.