Fostex PM-2MKII Reference Manual

professional studio monitor

- Reference Manual -

Intr

oduction & Unpa

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Setup Instructions - continued

Pr

oduct Cleaning Inst

ructions

Setup Instructions

Bac

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P

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view

Sa

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Ca

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W

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Pr

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Dec

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EC Dir

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PM-2MK

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

CAUTION:

ATTENTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE
OFPLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

POUSSER JUSQU' AU FOND.

"WARNING"

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

"TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC

Read Instructions - All the safety and operating instructions
should be read before the appliance is operated.
Retain Instructions - The safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.
Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the
operating instructions should be adhered to.
Follow Instructions - All operating and use instructions should
be followed.
Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used

near water - for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen
sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming
pool, and the like.

Carts and Stands - The appliance should be used only with
a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

An appliance and cart combination should be moved with

care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces

may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.

Wall or Ceiling Mounting - The appliance should be mounted
to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the

Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its
location or position does not interfere with its proper
ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated
on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the

ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such

as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air
through the ventilation openings.

Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

7.

8.

9.

Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be
routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched
by items placed upon or against them, paying particular
attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and
the point where they exit from the appliance.
Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as
recommended by the manufacturer.
Nonuse Periods - The power cord of the appliance should
be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long
period of time.
Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be taken so that objects
do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through
openings.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

NO USER - SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN
OR MOISTURE,

"

manufacturer.

10.

11.

Power Sources - The appliance should be connected to a

power supply only of the type described in the operating

instructions or as marked on the appliance.

Grounding or Polarization - The precautions that should be

taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an

appliance is not defeated.

P O U R E V I T E R L E S C HO CS E L EC TR IQ UE S,
INTRODUIRE

LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE

DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET

The e x c l a m a tion po i n t w i t hin an e q u i l a teral trian gle i s
in ten ded

to al er t t he user to th e pres en ce of im por tan t

opera ti ng and

mai nt enance (servicin g) instru ctions

in the literature

accompanying the appliance.

The light ning flash wit h arrowhead symbol, withi n an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated"dangerous voltage"within the
product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

24.

25.

Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be
serviced by qualified service personnel when:

Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the
appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions.
All other servicing should be referred to qualified service
personnel.
The appliance should be situated away from drops of water
or spray of water.
Objects containing liquid such as vase must not be put on
the appliance.
The appliance is not completely isolated from the power
supply even if the power switch is at off position.
Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing
and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be
placed on the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
An appliance with a protective earth terminal should be
connected to a mains outlet with a protective earth

A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
B. Objects have fallen,or liquid has been spilled into the appliance;

C. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or
D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or

E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

or

exhibits a marked change in performance; or

connection.
An appliance should be placed in a position where an AC
plug / inlet can be easily pulled out by hand.
Main plug is used as the disconnection device. It shall remain
readily operable and should not be obstructed during
intended use. To be completely disconnected the apparatus
from supply mains, the mains plug of the apparatus shall be
disconnected from the mains socket outlet completely.

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designed to provide superlative performance,

high value.

Professional Studio Monitor. As with all

unquestioned reliability and exceptionally

fulfill

all of your critical near-field monitoring needs

and is emblematic of the years of experience
Fostex has had in the professional audio
marketplace. The PM-2 MKⅡ takes full advantage
of internal bi-amplification and employs two
state of the art amplifiers that utilize high­quality discrete bipolar output devices. The
8" woofer and 1" tweeter were expressly
designed for high output, ultra low distortion
and incorporate the latest technologies and

Please take the time to thoroughly read this
manual so that you may take full advantage
of all the benefits of the Fostex PM-2 MK

Ⅱ

Professional Studio Monitor.

manufacturing techniques.

Prior to unpacking your Fostex PM-2 MKⅡ Studio Monitor, carefully inspect the packing material for

excessive damage. Once it has been determined that the packing material has not been

compromised, carefully unpack the PM-2 MKⅡ Studio Monitor and inspect it carefully for obvious

impacts during shipping. If any damage is discovered during the inspection process, contact your
Fostex dealer so that this issue can immediately be addressed.

damage. Fostex takes great care in designing packing materials that will survive most expected

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Unpacking

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Fostex PM-2 MK

Ⅱ

Fostex products, the PM-2 MKⅡ has been

The PM-2 MKⅡ was specifically engineered to

Setup Instructions

Figure 1

Figure 2

Center of the tweeter

Center of the woofer

Mid-point of the woofer and tweeter

Reference listening position

B: loudspeaker base width
D: monitoring distance

Left Right

B

30˚

D = B

= B

After carefully unpacking the PM-2 MK

Ⅱ

Monitoring Distance = 1 to 2 meters

acoustic performance in your studio.
The PM-2 MKⅡ was designed to be used

Professional Studio Monitor, it is now
time to setup the monitors for the best

at a

monitoring distance of 1 to 2 meters,

located in such a way that the acoustic
center is located at, or about, seated ear

typically referred to as the near-field.

It is recommended that the PM-2 MKⅡ be

height (see Figure 1). If this is not

The monitoring angle between the left
and right monitors and the listening

possible, it may be necessary to tilt/aim
the monitor at the listeners ears.

Monitoring Height = the acoustic
center aimed at seated ear height

Monitoring Angle = 60 Degrees

easiest way to determine this is to place
the speakers in such a way that the

position should equal 60 degrees. The

distance between the left and right
monitor is equal to the monitoring
distance / listening position (see Figure

speakers be "toed-in" towards the

The PM-2 MKⅡ was designed to be mounted

2). It is also recommended that both

listening position.

vertically. This provides for the most
accurate frequency response, reduces

Additional Information

acoustic boundary interference and
provides optimum cooling performance
for the heat sink that is located on the
back of the studio monitor. If it is not
possible to mount the monitors vertically,
then the monitors should be placed with
the woofers inside and the monitors
"toed-in" towards the listening area.

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Once the studio monitors have been placed in their final location, it is time to proceed to connecting your

be made using XLR or TRS connectors. The gain control on the back of the monitor allows continuously
variable adjustments to match most input types from -10dBV to +4dBu. The input is electronically balanced
and is compatible with unbalanced sources, although this may require an adapter. The connection of the
PM-2 MKⅡ to the console/digital workstation should be done in the following order.

Setup Instructions

continued

Step 1: Make sure that all equipment has been powered down.
Step 2: Confirm that all gain controls, on the monitor and the source, are set to the minimum setting.
Step 3: Connect the source to the PM-2 MKⅡ monitor.
Step 4: Power up the all source equipment and then turn on the PM-2 MKⅡ last.
Step 5: Set the gain of both monitors at medium setting and slowly bring up the gain of the console.
Step 6: Adjust the gain of both monitors for balance and for best signal to noise ratio

Once the above steps have been completed, you are ready to use your PM-2 MKⅡ monitors. It is
recommended that you now play some familiar audio material and make any final adjustments, as far
as placement or level, to get the optimum performance in your monitoring environment.

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PM-2 MKⅡ studio monitors to the mixing console or digital workstation. Connection to the PM-2 MKⅡ can

Back Panel Overview

1. XLR & TRS Combination Input

This input is an electronically balanced input and
is compatible with both -10dBV and +4dBu
signals.

2. Continuously variable gain control

This control adjusts the input level to the internal
amplifiers.

3. Heatsink

The heatsink dissipates heat from the a mplifier. It
is important the heatsink receives proper
ventilation and is not placed near any sources of
heat.

4. Power Switch

Turns power to the amplifier section on or off.
On - position is the spot side.
The apparatus shall be used in an open area.

5. Standard IEC Power Input

This power terminal should be used with a
properly grounded three pin power cable, such as
the one provide with the product.

6. Low Frequency Adjustment

The PM-2MKⅡ allows you to adjust its low frequency
response to get suit its environment.
There may be cases where a slight adjustment
is necessary in order to better match the
acoustic characteristics of the room.
To make this adjustment you may boost or

simply by turning the switch to the right or the

cut the PM-2MKⅡ’s low frequency @ 60Hz by 3dB

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left respectively.
There are 3 positions : -3dB, +0dB, 3dB.
The factory preset position is the center, 0dB position.

7. High Frequency Adjustment

The High Frequency adjustment tailors the overall high frequency response by +/-3dB
above 6kHz. This control is a variable knob with no preset position. In the extreme
positions a full +/-3dB can be achieved. Leave this adjustment in the normal"0dB

"

position unless:

• You want to subtly brighten or darken the sound of the speakers

• You want to compensate for any HF hearing loss

If your mixes consistently sound dull or dark when you listen elsewhere, this usually

• You just like to mix on the bright or dull side

indicates that you monitors are too bright relative to your normal hearing. A bit less high
frequency energy usually fixes this, and you can force the mix in this direction by
reducing the high frequency output of the monitors by turning the knob in the -3dB
direction. The converse is true if your mixes are consistently sounding bright and present.

AC IN

POWER

MA DE IN C HIN A

LABEL

WARNING:

Tor educe the ri sk of fire or el ectrica l
Shock, do n ot expose this e qulpment to ra in or
moistur e. do not remove cov er.no user servic eable
parts insi de.refer ser vicing to quallf ied personne l.

NE PAS OUVRIR

AVIS:RISQUEDE CHOC ELECTRIQUE

CONFORMSTO

ULSTD.6500

CERFIED TO

CAN/CSA STD.E60065

3024002

C

US

CM

L

I

S

T

E

D

RIS K O F E LEC TRIC SH OOK

DO N OT OP EN

CAU TION

INPUT

CAUTION

VOLUM E

MIN

MAX

MIN

MAX

TWE ETER

GAI N

WOO FER

GAI N

HEATSINK MAY GET HOT

-3dB

+3dB

0

1

2

3

4

5

67

PM-2 MKⅡ

Product Specifications

Cable and Wiring Information

Product Cleaning Instructions

Cabinet Dimensions

Amplifier Power

Amplifier Distortion

Amplifier Signal to Noise Ratio

Net Weight

14 Kg

16.2 Kg

32.4 Pounds

35.7 Pounds

Gross Weight Per pair (includes all packing material)

Frequency Response

Low Frequency Control : ± 3dB (at 60Hz)

20Hz - 30kHz Not Weighted

Low Frequency : 120Watts

High Frequency : 120Watts

Amplifier Slew Rate

10V/ sec

>

90dB

<0.005

%

THD @ 50 Watts / 6Ohm 20Hz-20kHz

Product improvement may warrant a change of specifications, newer materials or cosmetics, Changes in
specifications and features may be made without notice or obligations.

Use high-quality, shielded cables to connect your mixing console, workstation or other source to your
monitors. Foil-shielded cables, such as Belden 8451, 8761, or 9501 should do quite well. Other high
quality cables are available and those that incorporate better shielding will yield an overall higher noise
rejection, lowering your systems susceptibility to external interference. Another important tip to keep in
mind when wiring your system is to route all line level cables away from the AC and other power
sources, this will reduce the probability of having AC hum emanating from your studio monitors.

254mm (W) × 411mm (H) × 300mm (D) includes heatsink
271mm (D) cabinet only - no heatsink

10" (W) × 16 1/8" (H) × 11 4/5" (D) includes heatsink
10 3/5" (D) cabinet only - no heatsink

Free-Field Frequency Response : ±2dB 50Hz to 20KHz
Low Frequen cy Cutoff : 40Hz (-10dB)
High Frequency Cutoff : 22kHz (-10dB)

High Frequency Control : ± 3dB (at 5KHz)

HOT (+)

XLR

PIN 2

PIN 3

PIN 1

TIP TIP

RINGCOLD (-)

SHIELD (

GROUND

)

Prior to cleaning the PM-2 MKⅡ monitor the power must be disconnected from the PM-2 MKⅡ monitor.
Once the power has been terminated, cleaning can be accomplished using a damp (not wet) cleaning
rag. A light common house hold cleaner can also be used, but care must be taken not to use harsh
cleaning fluids. Regular dusting or cleaning with a damp rag will keep your product looking new for years.

Power Requirements

Power consumption

US : 120VAC~60Hz

EUR/UK : 230VAC~50/60Hz

US : 110 Watts
EUR/UK : 140 Watts

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RCATRS

SHIELDSHIELD

Declaration of EC Directive

This equipment is compatible with the EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) - Directive on approximation of member

nation's ordinance concerning the electromagnetic compatibility and with the Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC)

- Directive on approximation of member nation's ordinance concerning electric equipment designed to be used
within the specified voltage range.

The affect of the European Specification EN61000-6-1 (coexistence of electromagnetic waves - common immunity
specification) on this equipment are as shown below.

The Affect of Immunity on This Equipment

In the electrical fast transient/burst requirements, surge, conducted disturbances by radio-frequency fields, power
frequency magnetic field, radiate electromagnetic field requirements and static electricity discharging environment,
this could be affected by generation of noise in some cases.

FOSTEX DISTRIBUTORS LIST IN EUROPE

* Including non-EU countries (as of May, 2006)

NAME: ATEC Audio-u.Videogeraete VertriebsgesmbH.
ADD: Im Winkel 5, A-2325 Velm, Austria
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<AUSTRIA>

NAME: General Audio
ADD: Raymond Pelgrimslaan 101, B-1702 Groot-Bijgaarden,
Belgium
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<BELGIUM>

NAME: SC Sound Aps
ADD: Malervej 2, DK-2630 Taastrup, Denmark
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<DENMARK>

NAME: Sennheiser France
ADD: 128 bis, avenue Jean-Jaures, 94851 Ivry-sur-Seine

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<FRANCE>

Cedex, France

NAME: Noretron Oy Audio
ADD: P.O.Box 22, FIN-02631 Espoo, Finland
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<FINLAND>

NAME: Mega Audio GmbH
ADD: Stromberger Str. 32, D-55411 Bingen, Germany
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<GERMANY>

NAME: Bon Studio S. A.
ADD: 6 Zaimi Street, Exarchia, 106.83 Athens, Greece
TEL: [phone], 606, 607, 608
FAX: [phone]

<GREECE>

NAME: I. D. Electronics
ADD: Gresa'svegur 12,108 Reykjavi'k, Iceland
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<ICELAND>

NAME: IEMKE ROOS AUDIO B. V.
ADD: Kuiperbergweg 20, 1101 AG Amsterdam, The

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<THE NETHERLANDS>

Netherlands

NAME: Siv. Ing. Benum AS
ADD: P. O. Box 145, Vinderen, 0319 Oslo, Norway
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<NORWAY>

NAME: Caius - Tecnologias Audio e Musica, Lda.
ADD: Praca do Bom Sucesso, No 61 Bom Sucesso Trade

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<PORTUGAL>

Center, Escritorio 701/702, 4150-1460 Porto, Portugal

NAME: Letusa S. A.
ADD: C/Laguna 10, 28923 Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<SPAIN>

NAME: Sennheiser AB
ADD: John Ericssonsgatan 10, P. O. Box 22035, SE-104 22
Stockholm, Sweden
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<SWEDEN>

NAME: Audio Bauer Pro AG
ADD: Bernerstrasse-Nord 182, CH-8064 Zurich, Switzerland
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<SWITZERLAND>

NAME: SCV London
ADD: 40 Chigwell Lane, Oakwood Hill Industrial Estate,

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

<UK>

Loughton, Essex IG10 3NY U. K.

NAME: Proel S. p. A.
ADD: Zona Via Alla Ruenia, 37/43 64027-Sant’Omero

TEL: (+ 39) 0861-81241, FAX: [phone]

<ITALY>

(Teramo), Italy

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