MR-5A / MR-6A
active studio monitor set
User manual
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing these Devine studio monitors. We advise that you read this user manual in its
entirety before unpacking the contents of the box, so that you are familiar with all of the functionality that this
product has to offer. Please be sure to check that all of the parts and accessories listed below under 'box
contents' are included in the package. In the event that the product does not function properly, or if you have
any issues while operating it, please remove the plug from the power socket and contact your dealer for
assistance.
Box contents:
– 2x Devine MR-5A or Devine MR-6A studio monitors
– 2x power cable IEC C13 to Schuko connector
Please inspect the device and the included accessories.
Should you discover that either the device or one or more of the included parts have been damaged or
rendered defective while in transit, please contact your dealer directly.
Please note that the pictures in this user manual serve illustrative purposes only and may differ from the
product you receive.
Contact:
Devine Pro Audio Products
Verrijn Stuartweg 18
4462 GE Goes
The Netherlands
Please do not send any products to this correspondence address.
Should you wish to send in a product for repair or for a refund, please contact your dealer for an RMA
(Return Merchandise Authorisation).
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Safety instructions
Everyone involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device must:
- Be qualified
- Be skilled
- Have read the instructions in this user manual
- Be sure that neither the device nor the included accessories are damaged. Should the device or the
included accessories be damaged, please contact your dealer for more information.
- Ensure that the device is in good working condition and is safe to operate. Please follow the advice and
instructions as they are described in this user manual.
Damage caused by misuse and/or modifications made to the device are not covered by the warranty.
This device does not contain any parts that need to be repaired or replaced by the user. Should maintenance
or repairs be necessary, they must be handled by a qualified technician.
Important information regarding health and safety:
- Do not remove any labels or stickers from this device.
- Do not leave any cables lying around.
- The device should not be opened up, and any hardware or software that may be present should not be
modified.
- To achieve optimal performance, inputs on this device should not be fed with a signal higher than
necessary.
- The device should only be used indoors; contact with water, rain and moisture should always be avoided.
Do not place any objects containing liquids on top of the device.
- Remove the device from any nearby flames or heat sources; do not place it near flammable fluids, gasses
or objects.
- Disconnect this device from the power supply if it will not be used for a longer period of time, if maintenance
is necessary, or if the device needs to be cleaned.
- Do not pull on the cable to remove a connector, as it can cause damage.
- Do not use any cables other than the ones described in this manual. Do not use defective cables. Please
contact your dealer if the included or necessary cables do not function properly with this device.
- Only use this device with power from a grounded power source.
- In the event that the device is exposed to extreme temperature changes (e.g. transported through a cold
outdoor environment into a warm indoor environment), it should not be turned on until it has reached room
temperature. This is necessary to prevent moisture from forming in the device, which could lead to electric
shocks.
Guidelines and operation of this device:
- This device is intended for indoor use by adults only.
- This device is not suitable for use by children, and should always be operated by an adult.
- This device may only be used in a suitable environment where no damage to the device can occur. Do not
use the device in moist or dusty environments such as:
- indoor swimming pools where chlorine is used
- beaches where there is sand and salt
- outdoors
- indoors in spaces where intense heat sources are present, or where it reaches temperature levels
that would be considered uncomfortable for a person
- Avoid impact and collisions during use and transport. Do not transport the device while it is in use. Avoid
using excessive force when installing and operating the device.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
WARNING!
Keep this device away from moisture, water and rain to avoid the chance of electric shocks.
- The user should become familiar with the functions of this device before using it.
- The user should be able to stop the devices's power supply in case of emergencies. At least one of the
following should therefore be accessible at all times:
- the on/off switch on the back of the unit
- the power cable connector on the back of the unit
- the power socket the cable is plugged in to
- the power socket switch or extension cable switch
- Should the device not be used in the manner described in this user manual, damages or even injuries could
occur. Devine cannot be held responsible for any injuries or damages that occur as a result of improper use
of this product.
Storage and transport:
This product is not designed for mobile use. If the product needs to be transported, it should be placed in the
original packaging to protect it against damage.
- This device is not designed for permanent (24/7) use. The expected lifespan of the device will not be
affected by occasionally turning the device off. Disconnect the device or turn off the power when it is not
actively in use.
- If the device will not be used for a longer period of time, it should be disconnected and stored in a dust-free
environment.
- Do not expose the device to extreme temperature differences.
Housing
- Inspect the device's housing frequently, and always just before use. Avoid operating the device if there are
large dents or cracks, or if screws are missing. Do not use the device if the housing is not in good condition.
Contact your dealer or a qualified technician if you are unsure about the state of the device.
- Check the device and the screws for corrosion. Corrosion must not be present on this device. Contact your
dealer or a qualified technician if you find any corrosion on the screws.
Every power and signal connector should be securely mounted. Do not use the device if the connectors are
not secure.
Avoid dust and dirt build-up. Clean the device once a month by disconnecting it from the power supply and
wiping it down with a dry or slightly moist cloth. If the device is used frequently, the cleaning intervals should
increase.
Symbol explanation:
WEEE: Ensure that this device is disposed of properly. This product falls under the WEEE
(Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive. The requirements of this directive apply
to all manufacturers and producers of electronic devices in the EU. Do not throw this product
away with regular household trash. Please contact your local authority for more information
about how to recycle and dispose of these products in your region. By recycling this product
in the proper manner, we can work together to ensure that we can continue to enjoy these
kinds of products and still protect the environment as much as possible from pollution.
CE: The CE logo indicates that this product meets the European norms and requirements to
which it must legally conform.
Only suitable for indoor use: this product was only designed for indoor use. The maximum
environmental temperature must not exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
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Product overview
1. woofer (low frequency speaker)
2. tweeter (high frequency speaker)
3. power status LED
4. bass reflex port
5. gain control (volume control)
6. balanced TRS jack input
7. 3-pin balanced XLR input
8. on/off switch
9. power input via IEC C14 and fuse holder
Please note: the MR-6A is shown in the images. The MR-5A has similar components and the same
connectors in the same places.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Operating the device
Purpose of a studio monitor
The main purpose of a studio monitor is to provide the most neutral sound possible from various sound
sources for reference purposes. Studio monitors are commonly used with equipment like audio interfaces,
studio mixers and recorders.
The neutral frequencies give you the most realistic, detailed sound possible from your audio. This makes it
easier to determine whether the low tones or high tones are too prominent, or whether the vocals are loud
enough in your mix compared to the instruments, for instance.
Another advantage of a studio monitor is that you can use it to determine how your audio would sound when
played on different sounds systems. Naturally, there big differences between a smartphone's speaker and a
high-end Hi-Fi or headphones, for example.
The Devine MR-5A and MR-6A are highly-affordable studio monitors and
like other studio monitors in this price class and in classes above, the sound could never be 100% neutral.
Some colouration of the sound is always present, not only from the monitors themselves, but also from the
acoustics of the surroundings.
This does not necessarily represent a problem, as long as you aware of the existence of the colouration in
the sound. You can then take this into account when making any adjustments to ensure your mix will sound
as good as possible on as many sound systems as possible. Listening to your mix on different sound
systems allows you determine the best overall settings. As well as listening to your mix through studio
monitors, you should also listen to it on your phone, through headphones, on your car radio and even on
your television as these are the most common devices others listen to music on.
Transport and protection
Studio monitors are designed for use in studios and once placed somewhere appropriate, should not be
moved regularly. They are not designed for use 'on the road' as the housing is not robust enough to protect
the internal components from vibrations, shocks or damage.
The speakers do not have a protective grille to prevent influencing the acoustic reproduction of the sound.
Ensure that the speaker components are not touched as this can cause damage. Damage of this kind is not
covered by the warranty.
Placement and positioning
A studio monitor's positioning can greatly influence the way it sounds and it's important to find the 'sweet
spot', particularly for listening to the high tones. This is the position where the monitor sounds best relative to
where you sit and will give you the most accurate sound reproduction.
If possible, the ideal setup involves placing yourself at one of the points of an equilateral triangle, where each
angle is 60 degrees and there's a distance of approximately 1 metre between each speaker as well as the
listener. This setup is ideal for 'near field' monitors such as the MR-5A and MR-6A.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Please be aware, if your monitors are placed on a desk, they may not be positioned at the right height.
Isolation and height positioning
Once your monitors are in the right place, it's important to ensure that they are also positioned at the right
height. Monitors placed on a desk are rarely positioned at the right height for you to be able to experience
the 'sweet spot', as they are usually not directed towards your ears.
In the most ideal scenario,studio monitor stands are used to ensure your monitors are at the perfect height.
When you are sitting at your desk, the space between the woofer and the tweeter should be at the same
height as your ears. If this setup simply isn't possible, you should consider investing in special isolation pads
which can be placed under your monitors to create the perfect projection angle. In this case, your monitors
can be angled towards your ears. Ideally, you will be able to look directly at the status LED or speaker
components.
Using isolation pads gives you another advantage too by preventing vibrations from the woofer being
transferred to the surface they're standing on, resulting in a better, more neutral sound overall without any
interference.
Positioning next to walls
The MR studio monitors feature a bass port on the back. While the woofer generates the low tones, the bass
port ensures a more powerful sound overall. For the bass port to work properly, it's important that the
monitors are placed close, but not against a wall so that the low tones can be reflected back into the studio
for a fuller, more optimal sound if desired.
The speakers should ideally be placed anywhere from 30 cm to 100 cm away from the wall. It's worth
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
experimenting to find the optimal distance for the best-sounding results in your studio.
It is not recommended to place one of the speakers in the corner of a room against the wall as this may lead
to an unbalanced sound. If this is the only option, however, try and keep the setup as symmetrical as
possible and try to ensure that the bass ports on the studio monitors are also positioned as symmetrically as
possible towards the wall.
Long or short side of the wall in a room
In a rectangular room, it's recommended to place the monitors next to one of the shortest walls.
This gives the sound more room to spread as well as giving reflections more of a chance to break up and
fade away. The result of this is that you will hear more of the direct sound that you want to hear and less of
the reflected sound that you don't.
If your room is small with the opposite wall just 1 to 2 metres away from your listening position and you're
experiencing problems with the acoustics, then this can usually be solved with absorbers that dampen and
soak up the reflections behind you. It's best to consult an expert when using products that change the
acoustics of a room for optimal results. Different types of products can have different results depending on
their application and the initial problem.
General tips for monitor placement
Take the time to find the most optimal position for your monitors in a room. Even moving them by a few
centimetres can make a world of difference to the sound quality because reflections can enhance or dampen
certain frequencies.
Audio technology and adjustments
Sound sources, interface, DAC
Once your studio monitors are in the right position, it's important to use a good-quality sound source for the
best possible results. This includes audio files that, ideally, should be the best-quality original material and
not converted files.
The hardware used to play audio should also be the best quality possible. When playing files via a computer
(PC or laptop) or a mobile device (smartphone, recorder or tablet), it's a good idea to use an audio interface
or DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) that will convert digital files into an analogue signal while retaining as
much of the original quality as possible. Built-in sound cards, especially cheaper models and those found in
mobile devices tend to have a negative influence on the sound.
The audio interface or DAC you use should preferably have a relatively high output with plenty of headroom
to prevent problems with distortion and ensure the audio signal reaches your monitors at a sufficient volume
without the need for much extra amplification. Any extra amplification that's required can have a negative
influence on the audio signal.
Cables
The type of cables used can also influence the quality of the sound. For best results, use good-quality
balanced signal cables with TRS jack plugs or XLR connectors. The MR-5A and MR-6A are equipped with
both types of inputs. Using unbalanced cables is also possible but this can have a negative influence on the
volume of the incoming signal and makes it more sensitive to interference.
In general, studio and recording equipment are always equipped with balanced outputs. Consumer products
like smartphones and laptops tend to have unbalanced outputs, however.
Volume adjustments
The Devine studio monitors are equipped with a volume control that can regulate the incoming signal if
necessary. It is designed to be used to adjust the monitors, not to correct issues with the incoming signal.
When using devices like a smartphone or laptop, the incoming signal may be relatively weak. In this case, a
DAC or a device that is capable of boosting the signal like an audio interface, a mixer or a DI box should be
used.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Ideally, you will be able to control the volume of the signal your DAC or interface sends to your monitors. This
can also be software-controlled like the volume control on your computer, laptop or mobile device, for
instance. It could also be a separate passive or active volume controller that regulates the level of the
analogue signal. These often have simple 'dim' or 'mute' buttons that allow you to easily decrease the
volume level at once or mute it entirely. These features are useful when you need to discuss the sound with
someone while listening, for example.
Status LED
The monitors are equipped with a status LED on the front that lights up when they are powered on.
Overload and protection
There is no overload indicator on this monitor because it is not designed to be used for listening at high
volume levels, especially for longer periods of time. Pay careful attention when listening to the monitors to
determine whether they are set at a suitable level. If there is any distortion and/or crackling noises, lower the
volume immediately to prevent damaging any components.
These monitors are not designed to perform continuously at a high volume and should not be used for
parties or events. They should be used for their intended purpose only, which is listening to audio at a
comfortable volume. This can include recreational activities like listening to background music or amplifying
the sound from your television.
Devine does not provide warranty repairs to components that have been subjected to overload.
Component and housing protection
These monitors are not designed for mobile use. If they need to be transported, they should be placed in the
original packaging or in a suitable flight case with a foam inlay of sufficient thickness to protect them against
damage.
The monitors are not protected against impacts because they are designed to be placed in a permanent spot
in your studio and metal or plastic grilles can negatively influence the sound. Ensure that the monitor's
woofer and tweeter remain untouched to prevent any damage.
The bass port should be kept free at all times and not used for storage.
Devine does not provide warranty repairs to dented speaker components.
Soft start and soft shut down
These studio monitors are equipped with a special power supply for the amplifier module with components
that power up and power down the circuit slowly when the monitors are turned on and off.
This prevents an audible 'pop' from the components which can cause the woofer to visibly move. The soft
start and soft shut down mean that there is virtually no noise when the monitors are turned on and off to
protect the components and prolong their life. If the power flow is interrupted, this will also happen.
Once the monitor has been turned on, it will release the audio circuit. When this happens, you'll hear a 'click'.
Before this happens, no sound will be produced by the monitor.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Studio monitor - solving problems
If you have a problem with your studio monitors, please consult the troubleshooting section for possible
solutions. If, after consulting this section, the problem remains unresolved, please contact your dealer for
more information and/or help.
This troubleshooting section contains information on how to solve the most common studio monitor
problems, but it does not and cannot cover every eventuality. It is possible that you won't find your problem,
cause and solution in this section due to differences between products.
Problem Possible cause Solution
Monitors won't turn on Cables are not (properly)
connected
Check the cable connections between both
monitors and the power socket
Inactive power socket Check that the socket is turned on and if
using an extension cable with a switch,
check that this is also turned on.
Defective fuse Check the fuse next to the monitor's power
connector. If the fuse is blown, replace it
with the same type of fuse.
Sound level is too low Output volume from the source
is too low
Check the volume on the source device and
increase it if possible. It should not be
necessary to turn the volume level on the
monitors all the way up to bring the sound
up to an acceptable level. If changing the
volume on the source device is not possible,
a good audio interface or preamplifier
should also be used.
Gain control is set too low Increase the gain control on the monitor
Certain frequencies are not
present enough, or too much
The monitor has not been
placed in an optimal position
Experiment with the positioning of the
monitor. If not placed correctly this can
result in certain frequencies being amplified
or dampened.
EQ or sound effects present Some computers have built-in sound
controls with equalizers or sound presets.
These should not be used as they will
negatively influence your studio monitor's
neutral sound.
Audible interference Using unbalanced cables Using unbalanced cables may cause
interference. Use balanced cables
whenever possible. If this is not possible,
using a DI box directly after the output will
balance the signal, when using TRS or 3p
XLR cables from that point onwards.
High gain and weak signal It's possible that there may be interference
in the signal that is relatively loud compared
to the audio signal itself. This can happen
with a weak signal from the source which is
then amplified by the monitor.
Ensure that the signal from the source is of
sufficient strength so that less amplification
is needed.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Interference in signal Unearthed power sockets Ensure that your monitors are always
connected using the included cables to an
earthed power socket.
Equipment in the same power
group causing interference
Equipment including fridges, freezers and
microwave ovens in the same power group
are capable of causing interference. Try to
connect all of your studio equipment to the
same power group with no other devices
attached. If this is not possible, experiment
by connecting your devices to different
power groups to see if that solves the
problem with interference.
Audible resonance or
vibrations
Speakers not isolated from
surfaces
When your speaker is placed on a surface
like a desk or a monitor stand, it should be
isolated to prevent audible resonance or
vibrations. Monitor isolation pads are the
best solution for this.
Distorted, clipping, crackling
sound
Source device is transferring a
distorted signal
Check if any of the connected source
devices is transferring a distorted signal and
turn down the volume on the device if
necessary.
Volume control is too loud Turn the volume down
Woofer or tweeter is defective If a studio monitor is exposed to a loud,
distorted, or clipped signal for a longer
period of time, this can cause permanent
damage to its internal components. If you
suspect that the woofer or tweeter is
damaged, contact your local dealer for
assistance.
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
Specifications
Specifications for both models:
– set of active studio monitors
– 2-way speaker configuration
– MDF housing (17 mm), equipped with a vinyl coating and internal dampening material
– built-in amplifier module per speaker
– gain control per speaker
– matte white power LED indicator
connectors:
– power: IEC C14 with fuse holder
– TRS jack plug input (balanced)
– 3-pin XLR input (balanced)
Technical info:
– soft start and soft shut down circuit
– voltage: 220 – 240V AC, 50 Hz
Specifications per model
Components/properties Devine MR-5A Devine MR-6A
Frequency range 70 Hz – 20 kHz 50 Hz – 20 kHz
Woofer 5-inch woofer with narrow
surround and 1-inch voice coil,
magnetically shielded
6-inch woofer with board
surround and 1-inch voice coil,
magnetically shielded
Tweeter 1-inch soft dome tweeter with 1-inch voice coil, ferrofluid cooled and
magnetically shielded
Amplifier module HF 25 W 30 W
Amplifier module LF. 50 W 60 W
Sensitivity 88 dB / 1 W / 1 m 89 dB / 1 W / 1 m
Max. SPL continuous/peak 106 dB / 109 dB 107 dB / 110 dB
Input impedance 22 kOhm
Crossover frequency 2,6 kHz
Maximum power consumption 0.45 A / 100 W 0.55 A / 120 W
Fuse 1A, 250 V 1A, 250 V
Dimensions 225 x 185 x 280 mm each 250 x 210 x 320 mm each
Boxed dimensions per set 550 x 355 x 310 mm 605 x 395 x 340 mm
Weight per unit, net 5.5 kg 7 kg
Weight per set, net boxed per set 12 kg 17 kg
The information in this user manual is subject to change at any time without notice.
Version: 1.0 Date of creation and author's initials:14-07-2017 RV Revision date and author's initials: -
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