R SERIES
Installation and
Operation Guide
Models
R.5-66MAX, R.5-96MAX
R2-52MAX, R2-64MAX
R2-66MAX, R2-94MAX
biamp.com
R-MAX Premium Music
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
SYSTEM INFORMATION
Community R SERIES loudspeakers are engineered and
manufactured to be rugged and they are carefully packed
in sturdy cartons. Make sure that the number of cartons
shown on the freight documents have actually been
delivered. It is wise to thoroughly inspect each unit after
it has been removed from the packaging, as damage could
occur during shipping.
Please note that once the shipment has left your dealer
or the Biamp factory, the responsibility for damage is
always borne by the freight company. If damage has
occurred during shipping, you must file a claim directly
with the freight company. It’s very important to contact the
freight company as soon as possible after receiving your
shipment, as most freight companies have a short time
limit within which they will investigate claims. Be sure to
save the carton and the packing material, as most claims
will be denied if these materials are not retained. Your
Biamp dealer and the factory will try to help in any way
they can, but it is the responsibility of the party receiving
the shipment to file the damage claim.
It is always a good idea to retain the carton and packing
materials indefinitely, if possible, in the event that the unit
may need to be returned to your dealer or distributor for
repair.
IN THE CARTON
Each shipping carton contains the following items:
• One (1) R SERIES loudspeaker
• One (1) Steel mounting yoke (pre-installed) [R.5-MAX,
R2-MAX only]
• Multi-angle aiming strap [R.5-MAX (1), R2-MAX (2)]
• One (1) Installation and operation manual
• One (1) Warranty card
• Mounting hardware: [R.5-MAX, R2-MAX]
R.5-MAX (all models): 3/8" x 1-1/4" threaded studs
(x3), 3/8" lock washers (x3), 3/8" flat washers (x3),
and 3/8"-16 hex nuts (x3). All hardware is stainless
steel.
R2-MAX (all models): 1/2" hex bolts (2" x3,
1-1/4" x3), 1/2" lock washers (x6), 1/2" flat washers
(x7), 1/2" hex nut (x1), and 2" OD rubber gaskets (x5).
All hardware is stainless steel. Much of the hardware
may be preinstalled on the enclosure.
PHYSICAL FEATURES / GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The R.5-MAX and R2-MAX are the premier products in the
R SERIES line. They are designed for premium quality music
reproduction with very low distortion and high output.
The R.5-MAX fully passive, true point source loudspeaker
produces a very flat frequency response without external
equalization. It features a 600W neodymium LF driver
with aluminum demodulation ring and a large format
1.4" exit HF driver with copper shorting ring and hybrid
resonance damping diaphragm. It is ideal for critical
music reproduction in challenging acoustic environment
applications indoors or outdoors. Two horn patterns are
available: 60° x 60° and 90° x 60°.
The R2-MAX delivers the same great pattern control and
vocal intelligibility as a standard R2, but with the addition
of premium drivers, signal aligned MF/HF horns, very
flat frequency response, higher broadband output, and
lower distortion. The R2-MAX features dual 12" 600W
neodymium LF drivers with aluminum demodulation rings,
high sensitivity HF compression drivers, and higher output
M200HP midrange compression drivers. The R2-52MAX
utilizes dual midrange drivers and a very high sensitivity 1"
HF compression driver. The R2-MAX is a modern stadium
loudspeaker, designed to meet the needs of today’s modern
sporting venues. Operation is biamp only. Four coverage
patterns are available: 60° x 40°, 60° x 60°, 90° x 40° and
50° x 20°.
R SERIES FEATURES / TECHNOLOGY
R-MAX loudspeakers oer numerous features and
technologies that provide unprecedented sonic quality and
installation flexibility. Some of these include:
• Unique full-range high output loudspeakers with
advanced passive crossover technology
• All models are weather-resistant, UV stabilized and
suitable for outdoor direct exposure
• Protective steel grilles and mounting brackets are
covered with a rugged, zinc-rich epoxy dual-layer
powder-coat finish for superior resistance to weather
• Stainless steel hardware
• R.5-MAX models are available in black or light grey
finish and R2-MAX models are available in a light grey
finish (standard). Custom colors are also available.
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 2 Installation and Operation Manual
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
RIGGING AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Always follow these basic safety precautions when using
or installing R SERIES loudspeakers and accessories:
• Read these instructions prior to assembly.
• Keep these instructions for reference.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions, particularly those pertaining to
rigging, mounting, hanging and electrical connections.
• Only use attachments and accessories that are
specified and approved by the manufacturer.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, does not operate normally,
or has been dropped.
The terms caution, warning, and danger may be used
in this manual to alert the reader to important safety
considerations. If you have any questions or do not
understand the meaning of these terms, do not proceed
with installation. Contact your local dealer, distributor, or
call Biamp directly for assistance. These terms are defined
as:
CAUTION: describes an operating condition or user
action that may expose the equipment or user to
potential damage or danger.
WARNING: describes an operating condition or user
action that will likely cause damage to the equipment
or injury to the user or to others in the vicinity.
DANGER: describes an operating condition or user
action that will immediately damage the equipment
and/or be extremely dangerous or life threatening
to the user or to others in the vicinity.
These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service
personnel only. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do
not perform any servicing other than that contained in the
operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so.
DANGER: The loudspeakers described in this manual
are designed and intended to be ‘flown’ or suspended
using a variety of rigging hardware, means, and
methods. Installation of loudspeakers should only be
performed by trained and qualified personnel. It is strongly
recommended that a licensed and certified professional
structural engineer approve the mounting design. Severe
injury and/or loss of life may occur if these products are
improperly installed! All electrical connections must
conform to applicable city, county, state, and national
(NEC) electrical codes.
DANGER: R SERIES rigging fittings are rated at
specific Working Load Limits (WLL) per model line.
No single rigging fitting should ever be subjected to
a load that is greater than the stated load. Failure to heed
this warning could result in injury or death!
• R.5-MAX and R2-MAX models have a WLL of 100 lbs
(45.4 kg) with a 10:1 safety margin.
IMPORTANT: Refer to the sections on installation
and connections later in this manual for additional
information on rigging and electrical safety.
DANGER: It is possible to experience severe
electrical shock from a power amplifier. Always
make sure that all power amplifiers are in the “OFF"
position and unplugged from an AC Mains supply before
performing electrical work.
DANGER: It is essential that a safety cable (not
supplied) be utilized whenever an R SERIES
Loudspeaker is installed. The safety cable must
be secured to a suitable load-bearing point separate
from the loudspeaker mounting point, with as little
slack as possible so as not to develop undue kinetic
force if the mounting bracket were to fail. Utilize one of
the unused threaded mounting points on the enclosure
for this purpose.
Page 3
CAUTION: Installation of R SERIES loudspeakers should only be performed by trained and qualified personnel. It is strongly
recommended that a licensed and certified professional structural engineer approve the mounting. Severe injury and/or loss
of life may occur if this product is improperly installed.
Installation and Operation Manual
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
PRODUCT FEATURES IDENTIFICATION
TYPICAL R.5-MAX FULL-RANGE MODEL
Safety Cable Attachment Point: (Utilize empty rigging point. User must supply appropriate fastener and safety cable).
Installer to supply hardware for
top attachment of strap to yoke
Yoke
Aiming Strap
Grille
5 Rigging Points (3/8"-16)
(sides + back)
3/8"-16 Rigging points
(sides and back)
Gland Nut / Cable
FRONT REAR
TYPICAL R2-MAX FULL-RANGE MODEL
Safety Cable Attachment Point: (Utilize empty rigging point. User must supply appropriate fastener and safety cable)
Yoke
(5) 1/2"-13
Rigging points
Grille
Angle Securing Straps
HF/MR Connection
(white) Gland Nut
(5) 1/2"-13
Rigging points
Suggested Safety Cable Attachment Point
(user must supply appropriate 1/2"-13
FRONT REAR
LF Connection
(black) Gland Nut
fastener and safety cable)
Note: Cabinets are handmade and measurements may
vary slightly due to the thickness of the fiberglass.
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 4 Installation and Operation Manual
RIGGING / SUSPENSION AND SAFETY
TERMINOLOGY: The terms “rigging", “flying" and
“suspension" are often used interchangeably to describe
the installation of loudspeaker systems above ground level.
None of these terms pertain to, or attempt to describe, the
actual method that is used (cables, brackets, chains, etc.).
DANGER: The loudspeakers described in this manual
are designed and intended to be suspended using a
variety of rigging hardware, means, and methods. It
is essential that all installation work involving the
suspension of these loudspeaker products be performed
by competent, knowledgeable persons who understand
safe rigging practices. Severe injury and/or loss of life may
occur if these products are improperly suspended.
DANGER: All rigging fittings and inserts must remain
sealed with the included hardware or they must be
fitted with properly rated optional mounting
hardware. Any missing fasteners will compromise the
weather resistance of the enclosure.
COMMUNITY RIGGING HARDWARE WARRANTY:
Biamp warrants that its loudspeaker systems and its
optional mounting and rigging hardware have been
carefully designed and tested. Community loudspeakers
may be safely suspended when each loudspeaker model
is suspended with Community-manufactured mounting
and rigging brackets specifically designed for use with that
particular model of loudspeaker. This warranty applies
only for use under normal environmental conditions, and
when all loudspeakers, component parts, brackets and
hardware are assembled and installed in strict accordance
with Community’s installation guidelines contained herein.
Beyond this, Biamp assumes no further or extended
responsibility or liability, in any way or by any means
whatsoever. It is the responsibility of the installer to insure
that safe installation practices are followed, and that such
practices are in accordance with any and all local, state,
federal, or other, codes, conditions, and regulations that
may apply to, or govern the practice of, rigging, mounting,
and construction work in the relevant geographic territory.
Any modifications made to any parts or materials
manufactured or supplied by Biamp shall immediately void
all pledges of warranty or surety, related in any way to the
safe use of those parts and materials.
WARNING
NON-COMMUNITY RIGGING HARDWARE:
Non-Community hardware used for rigging an
R SERIES loudspeaker must be certified by the supplier for
such use and must be properly rated for safety.
IMPORTANT NOTES ON RIGGING LOUDSPEAKERS
There are three (3) areas of responsibility for rigging
loudspeakers.
• The building structure: Always consult with the building
architect or structural engineer to assure the ability of
the structure to support the loudspeaker system.
• The loudspeaker itself: Biamp certifies its loudspeaker
systems and rigging accessories for suspension when
they are properly installed according to our published
guidelines.
• Everything between the loudspeaker and the building
structure and the process of installation: The installing
contractor assumes this responsibility. Loudspeaker
rigging should be performed only by certified rigging
professionals using certified rigging hardware chosen
for the specific application. Prior to installation, the
contractor should present a rigging plan, with drawing
and detailed parts list, to a licensed structural engineer
(P.E.) or architect for written approval.
WARNING: R SERIES rigging fittings are rated at the
Working Load Limits (WLL) listed on page 3. No
single rigging fitting should ever be subjected to a
load that is greater than the stated load. Failure to heed
this warning could result in injury or death!
ACCEPTABLE MOUNTING POINT LOADING
The mounting points should always be used so that either
shear force is applied perpendicular to the direction of and
in tight proximity to the mounting hole, or tension force
is applied perpendicular to the enclosure surface. See
Figure 1 below.
DANGER: Use the mounting points only as described
above. Do not use them in such a way as to apply
sideways leverage to them. Failure to follow this
instruction could result in immediate failure of the
mounting points resulting in damage to the loudspeaker
and serious injury or death to personnel
Correct
Yoke tight against
enclosure (R.5-MAX)
or rubber washer and
enclosure (R2-MAX)
Yoke
Custom
Bracket
NOT Correct
Bracket spaced away
from enclosure
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 5 Installation and Operation Manual
Enclosure
Figure 1. Mounting point load
INSTALLATION
BEFORE YOU START
q Read all instructions and gather tools necessary before
starting the installation. Please read all safety instructions
and warnings regarding rigging and installation of the
loudspeaker. The "q" preceding each step can be used to
check o each step as it is completed (or applicable).
Every eort has been made to ensure that the information
contained in this manual was complete and accurate at
the time of printing. However, due to ongoing technical
advances, changes or modifications may have occurred
that are not covered in this publication. The latest version
of this manual is always available at biamp.com. The
revision date can be found on the rear cover.
The R.5-MAX and R2-MAX have diering mounting
instructions. Please refer to the appropriate instruction for
your loudspeaker model.
R.5-MAX INSTALLATION
MOUNT THE YOKE
Attach the yoke to the support structure prior to mounting
the loudspeaker enclosure. Five (5) integral threaded
mounting points on the four sides and the back of the
enclosure line up with the yoke or can be used for a custom
fabricated mounting. The unused holes have plugs or
hardware that can be removed if these holes are needed
for mounting or attaching the aiming strap.
Notes: The plugs are purposely designed to "catch" on the
mounting point threads and may be somewhat dicult
to remove. All unused holes must be filled with either
the supplied hardware or plugs to maintain the weatherresistance of the enclosure. The R.5-MAX has threaded
studs for mounting rather than hex head bolts.
q Determine the appropriate location and orientation,
and mount the yoke to the support structure. Hardware to
mount the yoke to the structure is not included and should
be specified by a structural engineer, load-rated for the
intended use, and be suitably weather-resistant.
Note: If the center hole is used to mount a yoke on the
R.5-MAX, the angle securing strap must also be attached
as shown in Figure 3 prior to securing the hardware.
MOUNT THE R.5-MAX LOUDSPEAKER
q Attach the R.5-MAX loudspeaker to the yoke. See Figure 2.
The mounting point holes are approximately 7/16" (11mm)
deep. The threaded studs used should not extend into the
hole more than 3/8" (9.5mm). Lift the loudspeaker into
place between the yoke arms. Attach as shown. Support
the enclosure until all connections are made. Tighten bolts
to finger tight (enough to hold the loudspeaker in position).
WARNING: Loudspeakers are heavy. To prevent
injury or damage, they should be supported during
the mounting process until the connection is secure.
Rigging Points
Enclosure
(if unused, plug with 5/16" plugs)
Yoke
3/8" SS
Lock Washer
3/8" SS
Hex Nut
3/8" SS Flat Washer
3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" SS Stud
(3/4" [19mm] should protrude)
Figure 2. Mount the R.5-MAX loudspeaker to the yoke
SECURE THE ANGLE
q Determine the approximate angle of downward tilt.
It must be angled at least 5° down from horizontal to
maintain the stated enclosure EIEMA rating and reduce the
possibility of rain and other precipitation compromising
the performance. Bend and attach the angle securing
strap(s) as shown in Figure 3. Hardware to attach the
strap to the yoke is not included and should be supplied
by the installer and be suitably weather resistant. Tighten
the yoke hardware until suciently tight enough to hold
the angle. Do not use excessive force when tightening
mounting hardware.
ATTACH SAFETY CABLE
q Attach a safety cable to one of the open mounting
points (see Product Features page 4). The safety
cable and hardware are not included. Please consult a
structural engineer for the appropriate cable for the load
and application. The safety cable must be secured to a
suitable load-bearing point separate from the loudspeaker
mounting point, with as little slack as possible, so as not to
develop undue kinetic force if the loudspeaker mount were
to fail.
Page 6
Installation and Operation Manual
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
R.5-MAX INSTALLATION (cont'd)
Yoke
0°
Securing Strap
Angle Securing Strap
(determine approximate
hole to use based on
chart at right)
3/8" SS Flat Washer
3/8" SS Hex Nut
3/8" SS Lock Washer
3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" SS Stud
(leave 3/4" sticking out)
Hardware to secure the strap to the yoke
appropriate for yoke attachment to the
structure must be supplied by the installer
Figure 3. Attach the angle securing strap to the R.5-MAX
R2-MAX INSTALLATION
WARNING: Loudspeakers are heavy. To prevent
injury or damage, they should be supported during
the mounting process until the connection is secure.
q The R2-MAX loudspeaker is shipped with the yoke
attached. If it is necessary to position the yoke dierently,
please remove the mounting hardware and reserve the
hardware for repositioning. Attach the R2 loudspeaker
to the yoke. See Figure 4a. Determine and orient the
loudspeaker correctly for the coverage desired for your
application. Mount the loudspeaker to the yoke with the
rubber washers between the yoke and enclosure and
attach as shown. This is intentionally a tight fit to maintain
weather resistance. Tighten bolts to finger tight (enough to
hold the loudspeaker in position).
X°
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Hole # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Down Angle 3° 6° 14° 18° 20° 25° 29.5° 36° 41.5° 47° 50°
q Attach the short flat end of the contour strap to the
mounting point located at the back/center of the enclosure
bell using the bolt, rubber washer, flat washer, and lock
washer supplied in the mounting point. Make sure that
the rubber washer is between the contour strap and the
enclosure. See Figure 4b. Leave the other end (the long
flat end) of the contour strap temporarily unattached.
Eventually this will be attached to the mounting point
below where the yoke crossbar is positioned when the
loudspeaker is mounted and aimed properly.
The short flat end of the contour
strap goes to the rear and the long
flat end should be attached to one
of the side mounting points.
1/2" SS
Lock Washer
1/2"-13 SS
Hex Bolt
1/2" SS Flat Washer
2" OD
Rubber Gasket
Figure 4a. Mount the R2-MAX loudspeaker to the yoke
Figure 4b. Attach the contour strap
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 7 Installation and Operation Manual
Contour Strap
1/2" x 1-1/4"
SS Hex Bolt
1/2" SS Lock Washer
1/2" SS Flat Washer
2" OD Rubber Gasket
R2-MAX INSTALLATION (cont'd)
q Mount the R2-MAX and yoke to the support structure.
If the center hole is being used to mount the yoke, that
hardware must be installed before attaching the securing
strap to the yoke. All mounting hardware must be supplied
by the installer and be weather-resistant and properly
rated for the weight and potential wind load by a structural
engineer.
Fig 5b
Fig 4a
Connection Reference key
q Attach the securing strap to the yoke. Align the short bent
end with the 9/16" hole with the yoke, and attach as shown
in Figure 5a. The securing strap should be positioned on
the yoke crossbar with the long end positioned over the
contour strap.
Fig 5a
Fig 5c
Fig 4b
q Attach the free end of the contour strap to the enclosure
as shown in Figure 5b. Make sure that the rubber washer is
located between the contour strap and the enclosure.
Contour Strap
1/2" x 1-1/4" SS Hex Bolt
1/2" SS Lock Washer
1/2" SS Flat Washer
2" OD Rubber Gasket
Figure 5b. Attach the contour strap to the enclosure
1/2" SS
Lock Washer
1/2"-13
SS Hex Nut
Yoke
1/2" SS
Flat Washer
1/2" x 2"
SS Hex Bolt
Angle
Securing Strap
Figure 5a. Attach the securing strap to the yoke
q Determine the approximate angle of downward tilt and
adjust the angle accordingly. It must be angled at least 5°
down from horizontal to maintain the stated enclosure
EIEMA rating and reduce the possibility of rain and other
precipitation compromising the performance. Once the
aiming angle is set, bend the securing strap against the
contour strap. The series of holes in the securing strap
should line up with one of the three 5/16" (8 mm) holes
in the contour strap. This determines where to locate the
bolt in the contour strap to attach the securing strap. Lift
the contour strap away from the R2 enclosure and put
the 1/4"-20 x 1" (25 mm) stainless steel bolt in this hole
so that the bolt head is between the contour strap and
the enclosure. Secure it with a lock washer and hex nut as
shown at right
q Fully attach the securing strap to the contour strap as
shown in Figure 5c. First ensure that the loudspeaker is
aimed at the appropriate angle. Bend the securing strap
towards the enclosure to put it on the bolt previously
installed on the contour strap. You will have to bend the
securing strap towards the enclosure to put it on the
bolt. First place one of the 1/4" flat washers on the bolt,
followed by the securing strap. Finish with the remaining
1/4" flat washer, 1/4" lock washer, then secure with a
1/4"-20 hex nut.
Attach the 1/4" hardware to the holes
that best match the angle desired
Contour Strap
Angle Securing Strap
1/4" SS Lock Washer
1/4"-20 SS Hex Nut
1/4" SS Flat Washer
1/4"-20 SS Hex Nut
1/4" x 1" SS Hex Bolt
Figure 5c. Attach the securing strap to the contour strap
Page 8
Installation and Operation Manual
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
WIRING AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY
All standard R-MAX loudspeakers come with attached SJOW
rated input cables, 12' (3.6m) in length. The cable enters the
enclosure through a waterproof gland nut. The other end of
the cable is un-terminated. The designer must account and
compensate for cable losses between the amplifier and the
speaker system. Do not remove the gland nut attaching the
cable to the rear of the loudspeaker, as this will compromise
the weather integrity of the enclosure. Please contact the
Loudspeaker Solutions Group for additional assistance
(email: communitysupport@biamp.com)
q Wire the loudspeaker. A typical installation method is
to bring the cable into a waterproof junction box (J-box)
equipped with a waterproof gland nut. Connections within
the J-box may be made with barrel-type crimp connectors,
wire nuts, solder and heat-shrink, or terminal strips.
Terminate per your local electrical code. We recommend
using barrel-type crimp connectors that are crimped with
a forged crimp or a ratcheting tool, as this method, when
properly executed, results in a gas-tight connection that is
easy to accomplish.
STANDARD WIRING
Connect as shown in Figure 7.
(–) ( Black)
(+) ( White)
Figure 7. Standard wiring
R2-MAX WIRING
All R2-MAX are biamp models and have color coded gland
nuts (and a label on the enclosure - see Figure 8 below)
that will indicate what input the cable is designated for.
The cables are 2-conductor standard weather-resistant
cables 12' (3.6m) in length.
MF/HF connection
(white gland nut)
IMPORTANT: All electrical installation connections
for loudspeaker lines are subject to all applicable
governmental building and fire codes. The selection
of appropriate electrical hardware to interface with the
R SERIES loudspeaker lies solely with the installation
professional. Biamp recommends that an appropriately
licensed engineer, electrician, or other qualified
professional identify and select the appropriate conduit,
fittings, wire, etc. for the installation.
DANGER: The output power capabilities of audio
amplifiers present a danger to installers. To minimize
the risk of electric shock from loudspeaker
connecting cables, confirm that the power amplifiers are
turned “o" before connecting loudspeaker cable(s) to the
loudspeaker or amplifier. Always follow local electrical
codes and proper electrical safety procedures.
WARNING: After wiring the amplifier(s) to the
loudspeaker(s), first power-up all devices that are
upstream of the amplifier, such as mixers, equalizers,
compressor/limiters, etc., before powering-up the amplifier.
This is to avoid passing any clicks or pops that may originate
in the upstream devices to the loudspeakers. The amplifier
should initially be powered-up with its gain controls turned
all the way down. After making sure that a continuous signal
is present, such as a CD playing, slowly raise the level of the
gain controls to establish that the wiring has been installed
correctly. Only then should the loudspeaker be operated at
normal output levels.
LF connection
(black gland nut)
Figure 8. Labeled cables - R2-MAX
FINAL ASSEMBLY AND TESTING
q All holes should be filled with the provided hardware or
other suitable replacement in order to maintain weatherresistance.
q Attach a safety cable to an attachment point on each
loudspeaker. The safety cable and hardware are not
included. Please consult a structural engineer for the
appropriate cable for the load and application. The safety
cable attachment points should not be located on opposite
sides of the cabinet in such a manner that they present a
significant force that pulls the insert points away from each
other. The safety cable must be secured to a suitable loadbearing point separate from the loudspeaker mounting
point, with as little slack as possible, so as not to develop
undue kinetic force if the R SERIES mounting were to fail.
q Power and test the system.
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 9 Installation and Operation Manual
USE A DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSOR
For best performance, loudspeaker protection and
system longevity, a digital signal processor (DSP ) must
be used with all R SERIES loudspeakers. Community's
ALC amplified processor(s) and the Armonia+ software
contain all of the information (high pass filters, limiters,
factory tunings) and DSP settings to fully optimize your
system. For more information on installing and operating
your R SERIES loudspeaker, please refer to the Community
page on Biamp's website or by contacting the Loudspeaker
Solutions Group (email: communitysupport@biamp.com).
SIGNAL PROCESSING
HIGH AND LOW PASS FILTERS
POWER AMPLIFICATION
Power amplifiers for the R-MAX models should be
capable of providing enough power to properly drive the
loudspeaker without the amplifiers entering into a state of
clipping.
Clipping occurs when an amplifier runs out of power. The
peaks of the reproduced waveform begin to ‘clip’ and
resemble a square wave instead of the typical sine waves
and saw-tooth waves that form the basis of most speech
and music. Clipping leads to rapid driver failure because the
driver is no longer moving as it’s designed to. When power
is flowing into a driver, but movement is limited because of
amplifier clipping, much of the energy is converted to heat
which will soon cause the driver’s voice coil to burn out.
The R-MAX models use fully horn-loaded low frequency
drivers. Refer to the dsp settings files or product spec sheets
on the Biamp website for the recommended high and low
pass filter values. Attempts to reproduce significant levels
below these frequencies can result in over-excursion of
the low frequency drivers due to the uncoupling of the low
frequency horn.
The appropriate electronic high-pass filter with a minimum
slope of 12 dB per octave must be employed. Its usage will
protect the drivers from much of the extreme low frequency
content found on media sources. The high-pass filter will
also protect against unwanted low frequency energy that
can originate from microphone wind noise - an important
consideration for outdoor applications.
EQUALIZATION
Equalization is the icing on the cake for sound systems.
And like the use of icing, it should not be overdone. Small
amounts of frequency boost can brighten-up the higher
frequencies and round out the lower frequencies, but they
should be restricted to no more than approximately +3 dB
in order to avoid damage to the drivers.
Equalization cuts can be very eective for removing the
eects of room resonance and other unwanted acoustical
artifacts, but here again should be kept to a minimum.
Extreme EQ cuts (or attenuation) will not cause driver
damage, but should be used with discretion to avoid
acoustic ‘holes’ in the audible spectrum.
External equalization can be used to "voice" the loudspeaker
for particular applications and is especially eective in
attenuating feedback-prone frequencies.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to boost frequencies at, or
below 40 Hz with an equalizer (either graphic or
parametric). This will counteract the eect of the
high-pass filter discussed previously, potentially
causing damage to the drivers.
POWER RATING
Refer to the model specification sheets for the
recommended amplifier for each model. It is better to
oversize the amplifier to avoid clipping, than to undersize
it. Power amplifiers should exhibit good sonic properties
while providing high reliability to keep the system
functioning properly.
Page 10
Installation and Operation Manual
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
COMMISSIONING THE SYSTEM
Commissioning is the process of optimizing the
performance of a sound system after it has been installed.
There are several important steps in commissioning a
system; these include the following:
1. Verifying the proper operation of each system
component:
a. Every source such as mixers, microphones, media
players, audio feeds from other locations, and so
on, should be tested independently of the newly
installed system to insure that they are working
properly.
b. All amplifiers should be tested independently of the
main system to verify that they are each receiving
their intended signal (i.e. HF, MF, LF, delayed, etc.).
Many amplifiers have numerous modes in which
they can function. It’s extremely important to make
sure that each amplifier in the system has the right
settings applied in order to properly perform its
intended function in the system.
c. The DSP ‘front end’ must be set up carefully to
insure that its internal routing and gain structure
are correct for the overall system requirements. It’s
possible to almost instantly damage mid and high
frequency drivers if the LF, MF and HF outputs are
accidentally crossed.
d. After all electronic components and interconnects
have been tested and verified, it’s then time to test
each loudspeaker element in the system. Such
testing should be performed at VERY low audio
levels to avoid damage to drivers from possible
wiring errors. Each loudspeaker section should
be carefully listened to, in order to make sure it is
performing properly. It should then be checked with
a hand-held phase checker to verify that no phase
errors are present.
3. Set protective limiters and high-pass filters.
4. Set delay times (if any) to align one or more ancillary
loudspeakers with the arrival time of the sound from
the primary source. If delayed speakers are used to
augment the main source, their timing must be set so
that the sound arriving at the listener’s ears from each
delay speaker will be in sync with the sound arriving
from the primary source. This is usually accomplished
with test and measurement instrumentation, but in a
pinch can be set by applying a short duration pulse to
the system and establishing the delay time by ear. An
inexpensive electronic metronome is a good source
for adjusting delay times by ear.
5. Equalize the system to achieve the best possible
sound quality. This last step in system commissioning
is known as system equalization or “voicing.”
Equalization is the process of adjusting the frequency
response of the system, by use of an equalizer, to
optimize voice intelligibility, musical sound quality,
or both. Note that all R SERIES loudspeakers are
factory voiced to optimize speech intelligibility as
well as musical sound quality. For this reason, many
designers and installers find that they can minimize
overall system equalization and still achieve excellent
voice intelligibility and high grade sonic properties.
2. Next, the gain structure of the system should be
established. Each component in the signal path
should be adjusted to provide the intended input and
output levels. Gain structure is a somewhat complex
subject that goes beyond the scope of this Manual.
Moreover, ‘proper’ gain settings vary significantly
from one device to another. We recommend that
you read the User’s Manual for each device that is
present in the signal path, and adjust according to
the manufacturer’s recommendations, so that your
system will operate will the lowest possible noise
floor and highest possible headroom – which is what
gain structure is all about.
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 11 Installation and Operation Manual
MAINTAINING WEATHER RESISTANCE
PERFORMANCE AND SPECIFICATIONS
GUIDELINES FOR R SERIES OUTDOOR USE
R SERIES is suitable for outdoor direct exposure installation
when used as recommended. For best results in outdoor
applications, follow these guidelines:
• Always orient the loudspeaker so the mouth of the
horn is, at a minimum, pointing at least 5 degrees
downward. Failure to do this could result in water
collecting inside the enclosure under extreme weather
conditions.
• When handling an R SERIES loudspeaker, be careful not
to scratch or scrape the finish on the grille, bracket, or
enclosure.
• All mounting holes must be sealed o with the plugs
or stainless steel bolts, washers, and rubber washers
supplied. If, for any reason, the hardware must be
removed, seal o the hole with silicone caulking or
some other suitable weather-tight sealant.
• The gland-nut securing the loudspeaker cable(s)
to the enclosure is sealed at the factory. Do not
attempt to remove this nut or the weather-tight
seal will be broken. If you need to replace the glandnut with a detachable electrical connector, such
connector must be of a weatherproof design and
sealed to the enclosure with silicone caulk or other
suitable weather-tight sealant. The Neutrik model
NL4MP is an excellent connector for this purpose.
NOTE: The gland-nut (or NL4MP) should be at the
bottom when installing the loudspeaker. It is also
advisable to leave a “drip loop” so water will not
migrate toward the loudspeaker.
• The rubber washers supplied with the mounting bolts
must always seat against the enclosure (R2-MAX only).
• The grille assembly is designed to prevent normal and
wind-driven rain from directly entering the mouth of
the loudspeaker. The grille is not designed to withstand
such things as being directly sprayed from a hose;
therefore this should be avoided.
• If you use any hardware in place of hardware provided
with your R SERIES loudspeaker, it should also be made
of stainless steel.
CAUTION: If the above instructions are not observed,
the weather-resistant integrity of the loudspeaker
can be compromised. This may result in damage or
failure of the hardware or internal components
which will void the warranty.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION
Full product specifications and current documentation
(manuals, sales literature) is available at
biamp.com under the Community page. Additional
technical information to assist you in operating and
optimizing your system or understanding more about
loudspeaker operation is also available on the website
or by contacting the Loudspeaker Solutions Group email:
communitysupport@biamp.com.
Page 12
Installation and Operation Manual
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
TECHNICAL DRAWINGS
NOTE: YOKE MOUNTING HOLE POSITIONS
AND MEASURMENTS MAY HAVE UP TO
A .125" [3MM] TOLERANCE.
TYPICAL R.5-MAX COAXIAL LOUDSPEAKER
8"
(203mm)
Center of
Gravity
Top
16.19"
(411mm)
Center Line
(5) 3/8"-16
Threaded Inserts
9"
(229mm)
10.2"
(25 9mm) typ
2"
(51mm)
1" (25mm)
Ø 0.45" (Ø 12mm)
hole x 4
4.6 3" (117mm)
16" (406mm)
16.39" (416mm)
Ø 0.55" (Ø 14mm) Center only
Yoke Dimensions
.2" (5mm)
9" (229mm)
8.2" (208mm)
4.6 3" (117mm)
2.75" (70 mm)2.75" (70 mm)
15.94"
(40 5mm)
Center of
Gravity
Sides
7.63"
(194mm)
8"
(203mm)
Center of
Gravity
8"
(203mm)
16"
(40 6mm)
Front
16"
(40 6mm)
Rear
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX Page 13 Installation and Operation Manual
TECHNICAL DRAWINGS
TYPICAL R2-MAX COAXIAL LOUDSPEAKER
Yoke
8"
(203mm)
8"
(203mm)
Ø .53" (Ø 13.5mm) typ.
15.43"
(392mm)
Center of
Gravity
Top
30.75"
(781mm)
Center of
Gravity
13.5"
(343mm)
17.25"
(438mm)
24.75"
(629 mm)
24.75"
(629mm)
24.75" (629 mm)
Center of
Center of
Gravity
Gravity
Front
R2-52MAX
24.75" (629mm)
Center of
Gravity
12.38"
(314 mm)
12.38"
(314 mm)
12.38"
(314mm)
12.38"
(314mm)
Page 14
Rear
(5) 1/2"-13
Threaded Inserts
Installation and Operation Manual
Sides
Front
R2-64MAX, R2-66MAX, R2-96MAX,
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
ACCESSORIES (for R.5-MAX only)
SERVICE AND SUPPORT
PMB-1RR
PMB-2RR
TRC400-8
Pole mount bracket kit for
mounting a single R.15, R.25, R.35,
R.5, RMG-200A, W2-218, W2-228,
W2-2W8 loudspeaker. Vertical
downtilt to 90°.
Pole mount bracket kit for
mounting one (1) R.15, R.25, R.35,
R.5, RMG-200A, W2-218, W2-228,
or W2-2W8 loudspeaker, or two
(2) loudspeakers in a "top-bottom"
configuration, with left-to-right
panning capability and vertical
downtilt.
External transformer with taps of
400W/200W/100W @ 70V input,
400W/200W @ 100V input.
TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY “(LIMITED)" VALID IN
THE USA ONLY
The R SERIES Loudspeaker Systems are designed and
backed by Biamp. For complete warranty information
please visit our website at biamp.com/legal/warranty-
information. Please call 610-876-3400 to locate your
nearest Authorized Field Service Station. For Factory
Service call 610-876-3400. You must obtain a Return
Authorization (R/A) number prior to the return of your
product for factory service.
WARRANTY INFORMATION AND SERVICE FOR
COUNTRIES OTHER THAN THE USA
To obtain specific warranty information visit the website
biamp.com/legal/warranty-information. To obtain
available service locations for countries other than the
United States of America, contact the authorized Biamp
Distributor for your specific country or region.
For a copy of the complete warranty statement, visit
biamp.com/legal/warranty-information
SHIPPING DAMAGE / CLAIMS
If the product is damaged during transit you must file a
damage claim directly with the freight company. It’s very
important to contact the freight company as soon as
possible after receiving your shipment, as most freight
companies have a short time limit within which they will
investigate claims. Be sure to save the carton and packing
materials, as damage claims can be denied if these
materials are not retained. If evidence of physical damage
exists upon arrival, be cautious before signing the delivery
acceptance receipt. Often, the fine print will waive your
right to file a claim for damage or loss after you sign it.
Make sure that the number of cartons shown on the freight
documents have actually been delivered.
Page 15
INFORMATION AND APPLICATION ASSISTANCE
For more information on installing and operating your
R SERIES loudspeaker, please refer to our web site at
communitypro.com. For application support, service or
warranty information, refer to the website or contact The
Loudspeaker Solutions Group for additional assistance at
communitysupport@biamp.com.
To obtain specific warranty information and available
service locations for countries other than the United States
of America, contact the authorized Biamp Distributor for
your specific country or region.
Installation and Operation Manual
R.5-MAX, R2-MAX
R SERIES
R-MAX Installation
and Operation Guide
Community is a family of products from Biamp
Biamp
333 East Fifth Street, Chester, PA 19013-4511 USA
Phone: (610) 876-3400 • Fax: (610) 874-0190
biamp.com
Part#: 112928 v:24FEB2021
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