Samson 6A User Manual

Two-way Active Ribbon Reference Monitor

A U D I O

MONITORS REFERENCE STUDIO

Safety Instructions/Consignes de sécurité/Sicherheitsvorkehrungen

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. To reduce the hazard of electrical shock, do not remove cover or back. No user serviceable parts inside. Please refer all servicing to qualified personnel.The lightning flash with an arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the products enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

Important Safety Instructions

1.Please read all instructions before operating the unit.

2.Keep these instructions for future reference.

3.Please heed all safety warnings.

4.Follow manufacturers instructions.

5.Do not use this unit near water or moisture.

6.Clean only with a damp cloth.

7.Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

8.Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) 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. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10.Protect the power cord from being walked on and pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and at the point at which they exit from the unit.

11.Unplug this unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

12.Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the unit has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug damage, or if liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the unit, the unit has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

ATTENTION: Pour éviter tout risque d’électrocution ou d’incendie, ne pas exposer cet appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité. Pourévitertoutrisqued’électrocution,nepasôterle couvercleouledosduboîtier.Cet appareil ne contient aucune pièce remplaçable par l'utilisateur. Confiez toutes les réparations à un personnel qualifié. Le signe avec un éclair dans un triangle prévient l’utilisateur de la présence d’une tension dangereuse et non isolée dans l’appareil. Cette tension constitue un risque d’électrocution. Le signe avec un point d’exclamation dans un triangle prévient l’utilisateur d’instructions importantes relatives à l’utilisation et à la maintenance du produit.

Consignes de sécurité importantes

1.Veuillez lire toutes les instructions avant d’utiliser l’appareil.

2.Conserver ces instructions pour toute lecture ultérieure.

3.Lisez avec attention toutes les consignes de sécurité.

4.Suivez les instructions du fabricant.

5.Ne pas utiliser cet appareil près d’une source liquide ou dans un lieu humide.

6.Nettoyez l’appareil uniquement avec un tissu humide.

7.Veillez à ne pas obstruer les fentes prévues pour la ventilation de l’appareil. Installez l’appareil selon les instructions du fabricant.

8.Ne pas installer près d’une source de chaleur (radiateurs, etc.) ou de tout équipement susceptible de générer de la chaleur (amplificateurs de puissance par exemple).

9.Ne pas retirer la terre du cordon secteur ou de la prise murale. Les fiches canadiennes avec polarisation (avec une lame plus large) ne doivent pas être modifiées. Si votre prise murale ne correspond pas au modèle fourni, consultez votre électricien.

10.Protégez le cordon secteur contre tous les dommages possibles (pincement, tension, torsion,, etc.). Veillez à ce que le cordon secteur soit libre, en particulier à sa sortie du boîtier.

11.Déconnectez l’appareil du secteur en présence d’orage ou lors de périodes d’inutilisation prolongées.

12.Consultez un service de réparation qualifié pour tout dysfonctionnement (dommage sur le cordon secteur, baisse de performances, exposition à la pluie, projection liquide dans l’appareil, introduction d’un objet dans le boîtier, etc.).

Stromschlags zu verringern, sollten Sie weder Deckel noch Rückwand des Geräts entfernen. Im Innern befinden sich keine Teile, die vom Anwender gewartet werden können. Überlassen Sie die Wartung qualifiziertem Fachpersonal.Der Blitz mit Pfeilspitze im gleichseitigen Dreieck soll den Anwender vor nichtisolierter“gefährlicher Spannung” im Geräteinnern warnen. Diese Spannung kann so hoch sein, dass die Gefahr eines Stromschlags besteht. Das Ausrufezeichen im gleichseitigen Dreieck soll den Anwender auf wichtige Bedienungsund Wartungsanleitungen aufmerksam machen, die im mitgelieferten Informationsmaterial näher beschrieben werden.

Wichtige Sicherheitsvorkehrungen

1.Lesen Sie alle Anleitungen, bevor Sie das Gerät in Betrieb nehmen.

2.Bewahren Sie diese Anleitungen für den späteren Gebrauch gut auf.

3.Bitte treffen Sie alle beschriebenen Sicherheitsvorkehrungen.

4.Befolgen Sie die Anleitungen des Herstellers.

5.Benutzen Sie das Gerät nicht in der Nähe von Wasser oder Feuchtigkeit.

6.Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung des Geräts nur ein feuchtes Tuch.

7.Blockieren Sie keine Belüftungsöffnungen. Nehmen Sie den Einbau des Geräts nur entsprechend den Anweisungen des Herstellers vor.

8.Bauen Sie das Gerät nicht in der Nähe von Wärmequellen wie Heizkörpern, Wärmeklappen, Öfen oder anderen Geräten (inklusive Verstärkern) ein, die Hitze erzeugen.

9.Setzen Sie die Sicherheitsfunktion des polarisierten oder geerdeten Steckers nicht außer Kraft. Ein polarisierter Stecker hat zwei flache, unterschiedlich breite Pole. Ein geerdeter Stecker hat zwei flache Pole und einen dritten Erdungsstift. Der breitere Pol oder der dritte Stift dient Ihrer Sicherheit. Wenn der vorhandene Stecker nicht in Ihre Steckdose passt, lassen Sie die veraltete Steckdose von einem Elektriker ersetzen.

10.Schützen Sie das Netzkabel dahingehend, dass niemand darüber laufen und es nicht geknickt werden kann. Achten Sie hierbei besonders auf Netzstecker, Mehrfachsteckdosen und den Kabelanschluss am Gerät.

11.Ziehen Sie den Netzstecker des Geräts bei Gewittern oder längeren Betriebspausen aus der Steckdose.

12.Überlassen Sie die Wartung qualifiziertem Fachpersonal. Eine Wartung ist notwendig, wenn das Gerät auf irgendeine Weise, beispielsweise am Kabel oder Netzstecker beschädigt wurde, oder wenn Flüssigkeiten oder Objekte in das Gerät gelangt sind, es Regen oder Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt war, nicht mehr wie gewohnt betrieben werden kann oder fallen gelassen wurde.

Instrucciones de seguridad / Istruzioni di Sicurezza

PRECAUCION: Para reducir el riesgo de incendios o descargas, no permita que este aparato quede expuesto a la lluvia o la humedad. Para reducir el riesgo de descarga eléctrica, nunca quite la tapa ni el chasis. Dentro del aparato no hay piezas susceptibles de ser reparadas por el usuario. Dirija cualquier reparación al servicio técnico oficial. El símbolo del relámpago dentro del triángulo equilátero pretende advertir al usuario de la presencia de“voltajes peligrosos”no aislados dentro de la carcasa del producto, que pueden ser de la magnitud suficiente como para constituir un riesgo de descarga eléctrica a las personas. El símbolo de exclamación dentro del triángulo equilátero quiere advertirle de la existencia de importantes instrucciones de manejo y mantenimiento (reparaciones) en los documentos que se adjuntan con este aparato.

Instrucciones importantes de seguridad

1.Lea todo este manual de instrucciones antes de comenzar a usar la unidad.

2.Conserve estas instrucciones para cualquier consulta en el futuro.

3.Cumpla con todo lo indicado en las precauciones de seguridad.

4.Observe y siga todas las instrucciones del fabricante.

5.Nunca utilice este aparato cerca del agua o en lugares húmedos.

6.Limpie este aparato solo con un trapo suave y ligeramente humedecido.

7.No bloquee ninguna de las aberturas de ventilación. Instale este aparato de acuerdo a las instrucciones del fabricante.

8.No instale este aparato cerca de fuentes de calor como radiadores, calentadores, hornos u otros aparatos (incluyendo amplificadores) que produzcan calor.

9.No anule el sistema de seguridad del enchufe de tipo polarizado o con toma de tierra. Un enchufe polarizado tiene dos bornes, uno más ancho que el otro. Uno con toma de tierra tiene dos bornes normales y un tercero para la conexión a tierra. El borne ancho o el tercero se incluyen como medida de seguridad. Cuando el enchufe no encaje en su salida de corriente, llame a un electricista para que le cambie su salida anticuada.

10.Evite que el cable de corriente quede en una posición en la que pueda ser pisado o aplastado, especialmente en los enchufes, receptáculos y en el punto en el que salen de la unidad.

11.Desconecte de la corriente este aparato durante las tormentas eléctricas o cuando no lo vaya a usar durante un periodo de tiempo largo.

12.Dirija cualquier posible reparación solo al servicio técnico oficial. Deberá hacer que su aparato sea reparado cuando esté dañado de alguna forma, como si el cable de corriente o el enchufe están dañados, o si se han derramado líquidos o se ha introducido algún objeto dentro de la unidad, si esta ha quedado expuesta a la lluvia o la humedad, si no funciona normalmente o si ha caído al suelo.

ATTENZIONE: per ridurre il rischio di incendio o di scariche elettriche, non esponete questo apparecchio a pioggia o umidità. Per ridurre il pericolo di scariche elettriche evitate di rimuoverne il coperchio o il pannello posteriore. Non esistono all'interno dell'apparecchio parti la cui regolazione è a cura dell'utente. Per eventuale assistenza, fate riferimento esclusivamente a personale qualificato. Il fulmine con la punta a freccia all'interno di un triangolo equilatero avvisa l'utente della presenza di "tensioni pericolose" non isolate all'interno dell'apparecchio, tali da costituire un possibile rischio di scariche elettriche dannose per le persone. Il punto esclamativo all'interno di un triangolo equilatero avvisa l'utente della presenza di importanti istruzioni di manutenzione (assistenza) nella documentazione che accompagna il prodotto.

Importanti Istruzioni di Sicurezza

1.Prima di usare l'apparecchio, vi preghiamo di leggerne per intero le istruzioni.

2.Conservate tali istruzioni per una eventuale consultazione futura.

3.Vi preghiamo di rispettare tutte le istruzioni di sicurezza.

4.Seguite tutte le istruzioni del costruttore.

5.Non usate questo apparecchio vicino ad acqua o umidità.

6.Pulite l'apparecchio esclusivamente con un panno asciutto.

7.Evitate di ostruire una qualsiasi delle aperture di ventilazione. Posizionatelo seguendo le istruzioni del costruttore.

8.Non posizionatelo vicino a sorgenti di calore come radiatori, scambiatori di calore, forni o altri apparecchi (amplificatori compresi) in grado di generare calore.

9.Non disattivate la protezione di sicurezza costituita dalla spina polarizzata o dotata di collegamento a terra. Una spina polarizzata è dotata di due spinotti, uno più piccolo ed uno più grande. Una spina dotata di collegamento a terra è dotata di due spinotti più un terzo spinotto di collegamento a terra. Questo terzo spinotto, eventualmente anche più grande, viene fornito per la vostra sicurezza. Se la spina fornita in dotazione non si adatta alla vostra presa, consultate un elettricista per la sostituzione della presa obsoleta.

10.Proteggete il cavo di alimentazione in modo che non sia possibile camminarci sopra né piegarlo, con particolare attenzione alle prese, ai punti di collegamento e al punto in cui esce dall'apparecchio.

11.Staccate l'apparecchio dalla alimentazione in caso di temporali o tempeste o se non lo usate per un lungo periodo.

12.Per l'assistenza, fate riferimento esclusivamente a personale qualificato. È necessaria l'assistenza se l'apparecchio ha subito un qualsiasi tipo di danno, come danni al cavo o alla spina di alimentazione, nel caso in cui sia stato versato del liquido o siano caduti oggetti al suo interno, sia stato esposto a pioggia o umidità, non funzioni corret-

tamente o sia stato fatto cadere.

Copyright 2004 - 2005, Samson Technologies Corp.

v5.1 - Printed August, 2005

Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) Fax: [phone] www.samsontech.com

Table of Contents

ENGLISH

Introduction	2
Rubicon R5a and R6a Features	3
Rubicon R5a and R6a Layout	4
Front View Layout	4
Rear Panel Layout - R5a	5
Rubicon R5a and R6a Layout	6
Rear Panel Layout - R6a	6
Setting up the Rubicon R5a and R6a	7
Background on the Rubicon R5a and R6a	7
Positioning the Rubicon R5a and R6a	7
Setting up the Rubicon R5a and R6a	8
Speaker Orientation	8
A Moment of Reflection	8
Connecting the Rubicon R5a and R6a	9
Rubicon R5a and R6a Quick Connections	9
Operating the Rubicon R5a and R6a	10
Rubicon R5a and R6a Control Panel	10
Powering the Rubicon R5a and R6a	10
Operating the Rubicon R5a and R6a	11
Connecting to the Resolv120a Subwoofer	12
Rubicon R5a and R6a with Mono Sub	12
Rubicon R5a and R6a Wiring Guide	57
Specifications	58

FRANÇAIS

Introduction	13
Caractéristiques des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	14
Présentation des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	15
FACE AVANT	15
FACE ARRIÈRE - R5a	16
Présentation des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	17
FACE ARRIÈRE - R6a	17
Installation des enceintes Rubicon R5a et R6a	18
Généralités sur les moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	18
Positionnement des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	18
Configuration des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	19
Orientation des enceintes	19
Quelques réflexions...	19
Connexion des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	20
Connexion rapide des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	20
Utilisation des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	21
Réglages des Rubicon R5a et R6a	21
Mise sous tension des Rubicon R5a et R6a	21
Utilisation des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a	22
Connexion au Subwoofer Resolv 120a	23
Moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a avec Subwoofer mono	23
Plan de câblage	57
Caractéristiques techniques	58

DEUTSCHE

Einleitung	24
Rubicon R5a und R6a Features	25
Rubicon R5a und R6a Layout	26
Vorderseitiges Layout	26
Rubicon R5a und R6a Layout	27
Rückseitiges Layout - R5a	27
Rubicon R5a und R6a Layout	28
Rückseitiges Layout - R6a	28
Rubicon R5a und R6a einrichten	29
Background-Infos zu den Rubicon R5a und R6a Studio-
Referenzmonitoren	29
Rubicon R5a und R6a platzieren	29
Rubicon R5a und R6a einrichten	30
Boxen-Ausrichtung	30

Momente der Reflexion	30
Rubicon R5a und R6a anschließen	31
Rubicon R5a und R6a Schnellanschlüsse	31
Rubicon R5a und R6a betreiben	32
Rubicon R5a und R6a Bedienfeld	32
Rubicon R5a und R6a ans Stromnetz anschließen	32
Rubicon R5a und R6a betreiben	33
Anschluss an den Resolv120a Subwoofer	34
Rubicon R5a und R6a mit Mono Sub	34
Verdrahtung	57
Technische Daten	58

ESPAÑOL

Introducción	35
Características del Rubicon R5a y R6a	36
Controles y conectores del Rubicon R5a y R6a	37
Distribución del panel frontal	37
Controles y conectores del Rubicon R5a y R6a	38
Distribución del panel trasero - R5a	38
Controles y conectores del Rubicon R5a y R6a	39
Rear Panel Layout - R6a	39
Configuración del Rubicon R5a y R6a	40
Resumen del monitor de Rubicon R5a y R6a	40
Colocación del Rubicon R5a y R6a	40
Configuración del Rubicon R5a y R6a	41
Orientación de los altavoces	41
Un momento para la reflexión	41
Conexión del Rubicon R5a y R6a	42
Conexión rápida del Rubicon R5a y R6a	42
Manejo del Rubicon R5a y R6a	43
Panel de control del Rubicon R5a y R6a	43
Encendido del Rubicon R5a y R6a	43
Manejo del Rubicon R5a y R6a	44
Conexión al subwoofer Resolv120a	45
Rubicon R5a y R6a con un Sub mono	45
Guía de cableado	57
Especificaciones técnicas	58

ITALIANO

Introduzione	46
Rubicon R5a ed R6a - Le Caratteristiche	47
Rubicon R5a ed R6a - Il Layout	48
Vista Frontale	48
Rubicon R5a ed R6a - Il Layout	49
Il Pannello Posteriore - R5a	49
Rubicon R5a ed R6a - Il Layout	50
Il Pannello Posteriore - R6a	50
La Messa a Punto dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	51
Il Bagaglio Tecnico dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	51
Il Posizionamento dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	51
La Messa a Punto dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	52
L'Orientazione delle Casse Acustiche	52
Un Momento di Riflessione	52
Il Collegamento dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	53
Il Collegamento veloce dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	53
La Messa in Opera dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	54
Il Pannello di Controllo dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	54
Come Alimentare i Rubicon R5a ed R6a	54
La Messa in Opera dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a	55
Il Pannello di Controllo dei Rubicon R5a ed R6a - continua	55
Il Collegamento del Subwoofer Resolv120a	56
I Rubicon R5a ed R6a con un Sub Mono	56
Cablaggio	57
Specifiche	58

ENGLISH

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Rubicon R5a and R6a Studio Reference Monitors by Samson Audio. The Samson Rubicon R5a and R6a are self-powered near-field monitors featuring boisterous power, superior electronics, robust woofers and advanced designed velocity ribbon tweeters. The proper implementation of these elements in each model results in a monitor with a linear response from bottom to top with tight lows and articulate highs. Both models feature Samson's proprietary 1 x 2-inch velocity ribbon tweeter, which offer extremely low distortion and sweet highs that are clear and precise. For the thunderous lows, the R6a features a 6.5-inch copolymer woofer, while the low frequency response is more than adequately handled by the R5a 5-inch copolymer woofer. Both Rubicon monitors are bi-amped. 75 watts of low frequency power and 25 watts for the highs on the Rubicon 6a, and 50 watts of low frequency power and 25 watts for the highs on the Rubicon 5a. The Rubicon monitors are ideal near field monitor system for studios, video post production suites, fixed installations or where great sound is desired.

In these pages, you’ll find a detailed description of the features of the Rubicon R5a and R6a monitors, as well as a guided tour through its control panel, step-by-step instructions for its setup and use, and full specifications.You’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—please don’t forget to fill it out and mail it in so that you can receive online technical support and so we can send you updated information about these and other Samson products in the future.

With proper care and adequate air circulation, your Rubicon R5a or R6a will operate trouble free for many years. We recommend you record your serial number in the space provided below for future reference.

Serial number: ________________________________________________

Date of purchase: ______________________________________________

Should your unit ever require servicing, a Return Authorization number (RA) must be obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, the unit will not be accepted. Please call Samson at 1-800-3SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) for a Return Authorization number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain the original packing materials and if possible, return the unit in the original carton and packing materials.

2

Rubicon R5a and R6a Features

ENGLISH

The Samson Rubicon R5a and R6a reference monitors provide a smooth response that is accurate, and at the same time, pleasant to listen to. Here are some of its main features:

•Two-way, active ribbon studio monitor with ported tuned enclosure providing extremely accurate monitoring for recording studio, post-production and multi-media applications.

•The Rubicon 5 a employs a 5.0”Copolymer Butyl Surround woofer, and the Rubicon R6a, a 6.5”Copolymer Butyl Surround woofer providing both monitors with a tight and controlled low frequency response.

•1 x 2”Planer Ribbon tweeter provides sweet and accurate high frequency response for the R5a and R6a with low distortion.

•Both Rubicon models feature active electronics including a Bi-Amp power amplifier with 75 watts on the LF driver and 25 watts on the HF driver for the R6a, and 50 watts for the low end and 25 watts on the high end for R5a.

•Four-position high frequency Ribbon Level control allows the listener to contour the response curve to custom tailor the response that works best in the mix environment.

•Active crossover utilizing a multi-pole design for linear response from bottom to top.

•Interfacing the monitors to most any -10 or + 4db signal source quick and easy thanks to the R5a’s balanced input on a 1/4-inch jack and unbalanced input on an RCA jack, and with the R6a’s XLR and 1/4-inch balanced inputs, as well as unbalanced RCA input.

•A/V shielded for multimedia applications providing clean operation near computer monitors.

•Solid MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) construction, extremely rigid delivering maximum SPL.

•Black satin finish is attractive and durable thanks to the heavy textured epoxy paint.

•Three-year extended warranty.

3

ENGLISH

Rubicon R5a and R6a Layout

FrontView Layout

1 1”X 2”RIBBONTWEETER - Planer ribbon trans-		4	TUNED PORT - Quiet port design offering linear
	ducer provides low distortion with a linear high		extended low frequency response.
	frequency response resulting in a clear,precise
	and sweet top end.	5	ENCLOSURE - Rigid MDF construction.
2	POWER LED - Blue LED illuminates indicating the	6	FINISH - Sleek black textured finish.
	unit is powered on,ready for operation.
3	LOW FREQUENCY DRIVER - Heavy duty 6.5" for
	the R6a and 5.0" for the R5a extended range low
	frequency transducer.

4

Rear Panel Layout - R5a

1VOLUME - Controls the amount of output level.

2RIBBON LEVEL CONTROL – Four-position switch used to adjust the high frequency response providing customized voicing.

31/4-INCH PHONE – BalanceTRS (Tip,Ring, Sleeve) 1/4-inch phone plug used to connect balanced or unbalanced +4dBu line level signals.

Rubicon R5a and R6a Layout

ENGLISH

4RCA – Used to connect signals from unbalanced, –10dBV devices.

5POWER SWITCH – Main power switch.

6AC INLET - Connect the supplied IEC power cable here.

5

Rubicon R5a and R6a Layout

Rear Panel Layout - R6a

ENGLISH

1RIBBON LEVEL – Four-position switch used to adjust the high frequency response (in 2dB increments).

2VOLUME - Controls the amount of output level.

3XLR INPUT - Balanced, +4dBu line level input is connected here via standard XLR (microphone) cable.

4RCA – Used to connect signals from unbalanced, –10dBV devices.

51/4-INCH PHONE – BalanceTRS (Tip,Ring, Sleeve) 1/4-inch phone plug used to connect balanced or unbalanced +4dBu line level signals.

6POWER SWITCH – Main power switch.

7AC INLET - Connect the supplied IEC power cable here.

6

7

Figure 1.

Prime Listening Spot

Equal Distance

Near field monitoring has become the choice of many engineers in large and small studios because it minimizes the effect of room acoustics. This is especially important in today’s project studios since the budget for room acoustics is often close to nothing. By positioning the reference monitors in the near field (close to the listeners), you can greatly reduce the effects of room acoustics. The most important considerations when evaluating the effects of room acoustics are reflective surfaces that are around the monitoring area. These can include flat tabletops, glass mirrors or

framed pictures, large open walls and even the surface of your mixing console. Mostly all reflecting sound will eventually reach the listening position, but since it is slightly delayed from the direct source, the result is random cancellation of some frequencies, or comb filtering. If possible, remove any and all reflective surfaces.You may also want to hang some acoustic foam on walls that are

close to the monitors. When positioning the monitors you’ll want to set up what is com-

monly referred to as the“mix triangle”. In this ideal configuration, the space between the left and right monitor is equal to the dis-

Setting up the Rubicon R5a and R6a

Background on the Rubicon R5a and R6a Studio Reference Monitor

The Rubicon R5a and R6a are self-powered near-field reference monitors, featuring robust power, advanced electronics and custom designed drive units. For pristine high’s, the Rubicon 5a and 6a boast a 1-inch by 2- inch velocity ribbon tweeter. The Rubicon ribbon tweeters are constructed using a Kapton diaphragm with vaporized aluminum applied to the surface. The diaphragm is then set between an array of neodymium magnets creating an opposing magnetic field. Since the ribbon is both the coil and the diaphragm, the diaphragm can accelerate and decelerate quickly resulting in un-matched transient response. Unlike conventional dome tweeters, the ribbon tweeter exhibits no coloration due to resonance, as well as, extremely low intermodulation and FM distortion. The result is a wide linear response producing high frequencies that are sweet, while clear and accurate. For the low frequency response, the R6a employees a 6.5-inch, copolymer low frequency drive unit with butyl rubber surround, and for the R5a, a 5-inch, copolymer, low frequency butyl rubber surround drive unit. Both woofers are well matched to the tuned enclosure and provide punchy and focused bass frequency response.The monitor’s crossover has been carefully designed with high quality components insuring a linear frequency and phase response. The Rubicon R5a and R6a enclosures are constructed from MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and are finished in scuff resistant, textured paint. The monitor’s enclosure also includes a tuned vent port that provides extended low-end response, and with a low turbulence design, the low frequency driver can move freely with minimal effect on the overall impedance. On the rear of the enclosure, you’ll find Rubicon R5a or R6a’s control panel, which features a variety of input connections including both XLR balanced input, and a1/4-inch TRS balanced input plus an RCA unbalanced input on the R5A . These inputs are connected to Rubicon R5a or R6a’s internal bi-amp power module providing 75 watts of power for the low frequency woofer, an active crossover, and 25 watts of power for the high frequency tweeter for the R6a, and 50 watts for the low end and 25 watts on the high end for the R5a.You will also find the pre-amp controls, including VOLUME knob, used to adjust the overall level of the internal power amplifier, as well as the innovative Ribbon Level control. This four-position switch allows the mix engineer to contour the high frequency response of the monitor allowing you to adjust for room acoustics or listening preference. The Rubicon R5a and R6a have been designed to provide flat, accurate monitoring, and at the same time, to provide an adjustable response curve so that the sound of other popular near-field monitors can be easily emulated.

Positioning the Rubicon R5a and R6a

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Setting up the Rubicon R5a and R6a

Positioning the Rubicon R5a and R6a - continued

Speaker Orientation

The Rubicon R5a and R6a’s can be used in either the vertical or horizontal position. When using the monitors in the horizontal position, be certain to place the left and right side tweeters on the outer most sides. (Figure 2) This will improve the stereo imaging and bass response by increasing the coupling of the low-end drivers.

Figure 2.

A Moment of Reflection

When choosing the height of your monitor system, be careful to avoid reflections off the surface of the mixing console. (Figure 3.) These reflections arrive at the listening position slightly delayed from the original sound resulting in strange cancellations and overall unpredictable response. Visualize straight lines representing the beams of sound radiating from the monitors and choose a height that reduces the occurrence of reflections that will end up in the prime listening spot. (Figure 4.) In most cases, the ideal position is slightly behind and above the mixing console’s meter bridge.

Figure 3.

Figure 4.

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Connecting the Rubicon R5a and R6a

Rubicon R5a and R6a Quick Connections

Note: Before plugging in and turning on, remember the“last on first off”rule of power amplifiers (and powered monitors). When powering up your system, be sure that all the wires are connected, turn your mixer and any other outboard gear on, and then last turn your Rubicon R5a or R6a’s on. When powering down, turn your Rubicon R5a or R6a’s off first and then your mixer and outboard gear.

The Rubicon R5a and R6a connections can be made via one of the three rear panel Audio Inputs. You can use RCA inputs for unbalanced -10dBV level signals, or either the 1/4-inch or XLR inputs for balanced +4dBu level signals. Follow the simple steps and diagram below for a quick connection using a standard recording console’s control room outputs.

•Lower your mixer’s master outputs to all the way off.

•Connect the mixer’s left Control Room output to the left-side Rubicon R5a and R6a LINE INPUT and the mixer’s right Control Room output to the right-side Rubicon R5a and R6a LINE INPUT.

•Set the Rubicon R5a and R6a’s input Volume control to the 2 o’clock position.

•Run an audio signal (like some music from a CD) through your mixer and raise the Control Room level to a comfortable listening level.

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Operating the Rubicon R5a and R6a

Rubicon R5a and R6a Control Panel

The Rubicon R5a and R6a’s rear control panels are where you will make your connections for both

AC power and audio signals. The rear panel also contains the controls to make adjustments to the overall volume and frequency response curve.The following section details the rear panel controls and connections.

Powering the Rubicon R5a and R6a

Since the Rubicon R5a and R6a are active studio monitors with an on-board power amplifier and electronic crossover, it is necessary to connect the unit to an AC power supply. Make sure that the main Power switch is set to the off position and connect the supplied IEC power cable into the AC inlet.

Things that go Hum!

	When running power cables, be careful not to run the AC power cords or AC extension cords in paral-
	lel to your input cables. This will
	help reduce any AC hum that can be
	picked up. If your have to cross an AC
	line with an audio line, try to cross
	them at a 90 degree angle for the
	least amount of induced hum. Using
	the Rubicon R5a and R6a’s balanced
	input connectors will greatly protect
	against the induced hum thanks to
	the common mode rejection (the
	induced hum is phase canceled) that
	its balanced input circuit provides.
1 POWER SWITCH – The POWER
	switch is used to turn on the Rubicon
	R5a and R6a’s active electronics.
	When set to the on position, the
	internal LED will illuminate green,
	indicating the Rubicon R5a or R6a is
	powered up and ready for operation.	1
	The Rubicon R5a and R6a also have
	a "rubi-red" LED which illuminates
	showing when the unit is powered
	up.
2	AC INLET - Connect the supplied IEC	2
	power cable here.
	The Rubicon R5a and R6a’s rear
	panel provides two important controls for adjusting the overall sound of the monitor, RIBBON LEVEL and
	Volume. Eventually, you will adjust these controls to your preferable position and “set it and forget it”.
	That’s assuming that the monitors remain in the same spot, in the same studio. If you take your monitors
	to other studios you may find the controls extremely useful in adjusting the sound for the new room.

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Operating the Rubicon R5a and R6a

Rubicon R5a and R6a Control Panel - continued

3	RIBBON LEVEL CONTROL			ENGLISH
	The four-position Ribbon Level control switch is used to adjust the monitors’high-frequency response,
	providing four equalization curves to select from. By using the Ribbon Level control, the Rubicon’s high
	frequency response is adjusted with the application of a high-end tilt (equalization circuit) centered
	at 12kHz, with selectable levels of –2dB, 0dB (flat), + 2dB and +4dB.You’ll find that the change is very
	subtle. Many mix engineers prefer the sound of near field monitors with a little lift in the high frequency
	response, some like more focus on the midrange, and therefore, desire a flatter or rolled off high frequen-
	cy response. The best way to set the controls is what sounds good to you. Therefore, you should experi-
	ment with the various settings to find the combination of the Ribbon Level and Volume controls you like.
	To do this play several CD’s of music that you are familiar with. Remember, if you think you’re getting lost,
	the Rubicon R5a and R6a is flat when the Ribbon Level control is set to the“0”position.
4	VOLUME CONTROL
	The volume control is used to adjust the
	overall output level of the Rubicon R5a
	and R6a. When operating the unit for the
	first time, start with the volume control
	set all the way off. Slowly raise the Volume
	control to reach a comfortable listening
	level.
	The Ins andThe Outs
	The Rubicon R5a and R6a features a full	3
	complement of input connectors pro-
	viding easy installation with a variety of
	audio devices like recording consoles,
	hard disk recorders, CD players and com-	4
	puter sound cards, to name a few. The
	following section details the Rubicon R5a
	and R6a’s input connectors. In addition,
	there is a detailed cable-wiring diagram
	on page 13.
		5	6

5BALANCED XLR AUDIO INPUT - The

Rubicon R6a features a female XLR con-

nector that will accept balanced or unbal- anced +4dBU line level signal. If you are

using a mixer that has balanced outputs on XLR connectors, you can make the connections via standard XLR (microphone) cable.

6 1/4-INCH PHONE AUDIO INPUT – A balanced TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) 1/4-inch phone plug is used to connect balanced or unbalanced line level signals. The 1/4-inch input is a switching jack, so when a 1/4-inch connector is inserted into the jack, the RCA and/or XLR inputs are switched off and the 1/4-inch input

is switched on. This provides a convenient patch-point for quick insertion of a secondary input signal source for testing or expanded operation.

RCA AUDIO INPUT – The RCA input accepts unbalanced signals used to connect signals from unbalanced –10dBV devices.

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Connecting to the Resolv120a Subwoofer

Rubicon R5a and R6a with Mono Sub

Adding a subwoofer and extended low frequency response to your Rubicon R5a or R6a system is easy using the Rubicon R5a or R6a’s LINE LEVEL inputs. Below is a typical system set-up using the Samson RESOLV 120a or Sub88 with a mixer and a pair of Rubicon R6a satellite speakers. The Rubicon R5a and R6a’s inputs utilize industry standard RCA connectors. For a detailed wiring diagram, see the section“Rubicon R5a and R6a Connections”on page 57. Follow the steps in the diagram below to set up your system.

•Lower your mixer’s master outputs to all the way off.

•Connect the mixer’s left output to the RESOLV 120’s LEFT LINE INPUT and the mixer’s right output to the RESOLV 120’s RIGHT LINE INPUT. Now connect the RESOLV 120’s LEFT LINE OUTPUT to the input of the left Rubicon R5a or R6a, and the RESOLV 120’s RIGHT LINE OUTPUT to the input of the right Rubicon R5a or R6a.

•Run an audio signal (like some music from a CD) through your mixer and raise the level to a comfortable listening level.

•Now adjust the SWEEP control to the desired frequency. You can also use your ears by adjusting the SWEEP control to the frequency that sounds good to you. A good place to start is about 70 Hz.

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Introduction

Merci d’avoir porté votre choix sur les moniteurs de studio Samson Rubicon R5a et R6a. Les moniteurs de proximité Rubicon R5a et R6a sont actifs et combinent une puissance très élevée, des systèmes électroniques de qualité supérieure, des Woofers robustes ainsi que des Tweeters à ruban novateurs. Les moniteurs Rubicon ont été spécialement conçus pour offrir une réponse linéaire sur toute l’étendue du spectre sonore, ainsi que des graves précis et des aigus ciselés. Les deux modèles sont dotés d’un Tweeter à ruban de 2,5 mm par 5 mm breveté par Samson, permettant d’obtenir des aigus clairs et précis avec très peu de distorsion. Les moniteurs R6a sont dotés d’un Woofer de 165 mm (6,5 pouces) avec membrane en copolymère permettant de restituer des graves puissants, alors que les moniteurs R5a sont munis d’un Woofer de 127 mm (5 pouces) avec membrane en copolymère pour une réponse dans les basses fréquences plus que convaincante. Les moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a sont bi-amplifiés. Les moniteurs Rubicon R6a disposent d’une puissance de 75 Watts pour les basses fréquences et de 25 Watts pour les hautes fréquences. Les moniteurs Rubicon R5a, eux, disposent d’une puissance de 50 Watts pour les basses fréquences et de 25 Watts pour les hautes fréquences. Les moniteurs Rubicon sont d’excellents moniteurs de proximité pour les studios, la post-production vidéo, les installations fixes ou pour n’importe quelle application nécessitant une sonorité de haute qualité.

Dans ces pages, vous trouverez une description détaillée de toutes les fonctions des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a, ainsi qu’une description des réglages, des connexions, de leur utilisation et de leurs caractéristiques techniques. Vous trouverez également une carte de garantie : n'oubliez pas de la compléter et de nous l'envoyer afin que vous puissiez bénéficier de l'assistance technique en ligne et recevoir les informations concernant les produits Samson.

Avec les soins appropriés, votre moniteur Rubicon devrait fonctionner sans problème pendant de nombreuses années. Nous vous recommandons d'inscrire votre numéro de série ci-dessous pour consultation ultérieure :

Numéro de série : _________________________________________

Date d'achat : _____________________________________________

Si vous devez faire réparer votre appareil, vous devez tout d’abord obtenir un numéro de retour auprès de Samson. Sans ce numéro, l’appareil sera refusé. Contactez Samson aux USA au : 1-800- 3SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) ou contactez votre revendeur. Les conditions de garantie et de retour varient selon le pays de distribution. Conservez l'emballage d’origine afin de l'utiliser pour tout retour en atelier.

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Caractéristiques des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a

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Les moniteurs de référence Samson Rubicon R5a et R6a offrent une réponse linéaire et précise tout en restant très agréables à l’écoute. Voici quelques-unes de leurs caractéristiques générales :

•Moniteur de studio actif deux voies avec baffle accordé et Tweeter à ruban offrant une écoute extrêmement fidèle pour les studios d’enregistrement, de post-production et les applications multi-média.

•Woofer de 127 mm (5 pouces) avec suspension en copolymère Butyle pour les moniteurs Rubicon R5a et Woofer de 165 mm (6,5 pouces) avec suspension en copolymère Butyle pour les moniteurs Rubicon R6a, permettant une réponse précise et étendue dans les basses fréquences.

•Tweeter à ruban de 25 mm par 50 mm, procurant une restitution claire et précise des hautes fréquences avec une distorsion très faible.

•Système d’électronique actif pour les deux modèles de moniteurs Rubicon, incluant un amplificateur de puissance bi-amplifié de 75 Watts pour le Woofer et 25 Watts pour le Tweeter (R6a), et de 50 Watts pour le Woofer et 25 Watts pour le Tweeter (moniteurs R5a).

•Commutateur quatre positions permettant de régler le niveau du Tweeter à ruban et ainsi de créer une courbe de réponse adaptée à l’environnement d’écoute.

•Filtre actif multi-pôle pour une réponse linéaire sur toute l’étendue du spectre sonore.

•Entrées symétriques en Jacks 6,35 mm et entrées asymétriques RCA pour les moniteurs R5a et R6a, lesquels offrent aussi des entrées symétriques XLR, permettant l’utilisation de signaux à -10 ou + 4 dB.

•Blindage magnétique pour les applications multimédia (utilisation près d’écrans vidéo).

•Baffle en panneaux de particules MDF, pour une puissance maximale exempte de vibration.

•Finition noire satinée très robuste avec peinture ultra-résistante à base d’époxy.

•Garantie étendue de trois ans.

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Présentation des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a

FACE AVANT

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1 TWEETER À RUBAN (25 mm par 50 mm) -	4	BAFFLE - Baffle à panneaux de particules MDF.
Transducteur à ruban permettant une réponse
linéaire des hautes fréquences avec très peu de	5	ÉVENT ACCORDÉ - Évent accordé offrant une
distorsion,pour des aigus riches,clairs et précis.		réponse linéaire étendue dans les basses fré-
		quences.
2 VOYANT D’ALIMENTATION -Voyant Led bleu
indiquant que le moniteur est sous tension et	6	FINITION - Superbe finition noire.
prêt à l’utilisation.

3WOOFER -Woofer haute puissance de 165 mm (6,5 pouces) pour les moniteurs R6a et de 127 mm (5 pouces) pour les moniteurs R5a, servant à étendre la réponse dans les basses fréquences.

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Présentation des moniteurs Rubicon R5a et R6a

FACE ARRIÈRE - R5a

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1 VOLUME - Détermine le niveau général.	4 ENTRÉE RCA – Entrée permettant la connexion de
	signaux asymétriques à –10 dBV.

2RIBBON LEVEL – Commutateur quatre positions

servant à régler la réponse dans les hautes fré-	5	INTERRUPTEUR SECTEUR – Interrupteur secteur
quences.		principal.
3 ENTRÉE JACK 6,35 mm – Jack stéréo 6,35 mm	6	EMBASE SECTEUR - Embase servant à connecter le
symétrique (pointe,bague,corps) permettant		cordon secteur fourni.
la connexion de signaux à niveau ligne symétri-
ques ou asymétriques à +4 dBu.

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