C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
tAble of Contents
About Revel Performa3 Center Channel Loudspeakers ........................................................................................................... 2
C208/C205 Overview ............................................................................................................................................................... 3
Tweeter Level Switch, Low-Frequency Compensation Switch, Binding Posts, Shorting Straps
Installation Considerations ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
Listening Room Acoustics, Acoustic Treatment Materials, Adjustable Spikes
Making Connections ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Observe Proper Polarity, Loudspeaker Cable, C205 Connections, C208 Connections
Optimizing Performance ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Port Plugs, C208 Adjustments
Caring for Your Loudspeakers .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Specifications ........................................................................................................................................................................... 9
C208, C205
About Revel PeRfoRmA3
CenteR ChAnnel loudsPeAkeRs
Thank you for purchasing Revel Performa3 center channel loudspeakers.
These loudspeakers feature flexible placement options and sleek designs,
allowing them to blend-in easily with your existing décor. They deliver
an impressive combination of uncompressed dynamic range and low
distortion across the entire audible spectrum.
Revel C208 and C205 low-frequency transducers and the C208 midrange
transducer feature distortion reduction mechanisms that stabilize the
flux field during operation, assuring low distortion even at high listening
volumes. These precision transducers utilize ribbed aluminum cones for
ideal piston-like behavior that eliminates a major source of resonances
that are clearly audible in most other loudspeakers. Their cast aluminum
frames eliminate another source of resonances that is common in many
lesser-quality loudspeakers.
The C208 and C205 tweeter has been created around a newly-designed
motor and dome assembly that sets a new standard of transparency for
the Performa3 category. The tweeter’s integrated acoustic lens waveguide
is based on a breakthrough mathematical approach that accurately
matches the tweeter’s dispersion to that of the midrange transducer in
the crossover region. This gives the loudspeaker very smooth sound far
off-axis – an important contributor to overall sound quality, providing
consistent sound over an exceptionally wide listening area. In fact, this
new waveguide actually increases the tweeter’s dispersion at higher
frequencies.
The C208 and C205 are housed in enclosures that are similar to our
flagship Ultima2 Series. These fully-curved enclosures feature sleek
curved tops and bottoms, which are inherently stiffer than conventional
box shapes and are formed with contiguous wood layers that prevent
splitting. They feature strategically-oriented bracing that eliminates the
possibility of enclosure-induced coloration. These beautiful, modern
enclosures are finished in high-gloss piano black, high-gloss piano white
(C205 only) or genuine American walnut in a process (developed and
overseen by Italian luxury cabinet makers) that exceeds automotive
finish quality. The loudspeaker grilles are designed to minimize sonic
diffraction or veiling and provide a clean, subtle appearance. The magnetic
grille attachment method completely eliminates ugly hardware on the
loudspeaker baffle, so if you decide to use the loudspeakers without
grilles they will look like they were designed to be used without grilles.
Revel Performa3 crossover networks feature carefully-selected
components that contribute to great performance and benchmarksetting value. These high-order crossover networks dramatically reduce
distortion and dynamic compression for clear sound that maintains the
same quality over a very wide dynamic range. These precision networks
optimize the speakers’ timbral accuracy, enhancing musical enjoyment for
listeners who are anywhere in the room, not only those seated on-axis
to the loudspeakers. The C208 network provides a calibrated highfrequency level control that allows precise fine-tuning of the sound while
maintaining a very tight acoustic match between loudspeakers. Reveldesigned binding posts are heavily gold plated and include an articulated
section that allows for more secure connections when using spade lugs.
The C208 includes two sets of binding posts that enable the loudspeakers
to be bi-wired or bi-amped.
During development, every Revel loudspeaker model is compared to
competitive models in our unique position-independent double-blind
listening lab. This process utilizes the latest psychoacoustic research
to assure that these listening tests are valid, enabling us to verify that
all Revel loudspeakers are superior to their competitors before they are
allowed to go into production.
2
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
C208/C206 oveRview
C208
C205
Dual 5.25"
Aluminum Cone
Woofers with
Cast Frames
1" Aluminum
Dome Tweeter
with Acoustic
Lens Waveguide
1" Aluminum
Dome Tweeter
with Acoustic
Lens Waveguide
ENGLISH
4" Aluminum
Cone Midrange
with Cast Frame
Dual 8" Aluminum
Cone Woofers
with Cast Frames
C205
Tweeter Level
Switch
Low-Frequency
Compensation
Switch
Binding
Posts
Binding
Posts
Shorting
Straps
C208
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
3
tweeteR level switCh (C208)
This switch alters the tweeter’s output by – 1dB, – 0.5dB, 0dB, + 0.5dB,
or + 1dB.
CAUTION: Do not operate the switch while audio is playing
through the speaker.
low-fRequenCy ComPensAtion switCh (C208)
This switch compensates for less-than-ideal loudspeaker placement
near a wall, or in an entertainment center.
• Select “Normal” if the loudspeaker is placed on a stand, more than
two feet (0.61m) away from walls or other large objects.
• Select “Boundary” if the loudspeaker is installed into an
entertainment center or shelving unit or if the loudspeaker is
located less than two feet (0.61m) from walls or other large objects.
CAUTION: Do not operate the switch while audio is playing
through the speaker.
binding Posts
These gold-plated terminals provide connections from the power
amplifier(s).
The C208 has one pair of high-frequency and one pair of low-frequency
binding posts that come from the factory connected by a pair of shorting
straps (see below). The two sets of binding posts can be configured for
single-wired, bi-wired, or bi-amped connections. Refer to the Making
Connections section on page 5 for additional information.
stAnd-mounting
Optional Performa3 C Stand pedestal stands are available for the
C208 and C205 that place the loudspeakers at the proper height for
installation below a TV display. Refer to the assembly instructions that
are included with the stands for additional information.
• When mounting the loudspeaker on the C Stand, if the speaker/
stand is placed more than approximately two feet (0.6m) from the
front wall, set the C208’s Low-Frequency Compensation Switch in
the “Normal” position.
flush-mounting
When flush-mounting the C208 and C205 inside of a cabinet or
entertainment center:
• Make sure that the front of the loudspeaker is flush with the front
edge of the mounting shelf and surrounding surfaces.
shoRting stRAPs (C208)
Two gold-plated shorting straps that configure the loudspeaker for
single-wired connections are installed at the factory. The shorting straps
must be removed when the binding posts are re-configured for bi-wired
or bi-amped connections. Refer to the Making Connections section on
page 5 for additional information.
instAllAtion ConsideRAtions
Loudspeaker fidelity depends on the following three factors: loudspeaker
accuracy, loudspeaker placement and listening room acoustics.
Advanced Revel design features allow the C208 and C205 to achieve
exceptional acoustical precision. As a result, experimenting with
loudspeaker placement and listening room acoustics will have the most
significant impact on the loudspeakers’ performance.
The C205’s performance is optimized for the most common centerchannel speaker placement options: near a wall, on a stand or inside a
cabinet or entertainment center.
loudsPeAkeR PlACement
We recommend that you remove all obstructions between the
loudspeaker and the primary listening position. For instance, a coffee
table between the loudspeaker and the primary listening position will
create reflections that will degrade timbre which can make film dialog
more difficult to understand. Placing the loudspeakers near large objects
may also cause unwanted reflections.
• Set the C208’s Low-Frequency Compensation Switch in the
“Boundary” position when flush-mounting the speaker.
• If necessary to aim the loudspeaker directly at the listeners’ ears,
use the supplied long feet to angle the loudspeaker down if it is
placed above the TV display, or use the supplied short feet to angle
the loudspeaker up or straight forward if it is placed below the TV
display. See Adjustable Feet, on page 5.
4
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
AdjustAble feet
C208 and C205 loudspeakers include two sets of adjustable feet, one
short and one long that let you angle the loudspeaker up or down so it
is aiming towards listeners’ ears when it is installed above or below a
TV display. The feet screw into the threaded inserts on the bottom of the
speaker.
Front
Insets
Rear
Insets
• To tilt the loudspeaker upward, install the set of short feet into the
front threaded inserts on the bottom of the loudspeaker. Adjust the
feet so that the loudspeaker achieves a level balance.
• To aim the loudspeaker straight forward (with no tilt), install the
set of short feet into the rear threaded inserts on the bottom of the
loudspeaker. Adjust the feet so that the loudspeaker achieves a
level balance.
• To tilt the loudspeaker downward, install the set of long feet into
the rear threaded inserts on the bottom of the loudspeaker. Adjust
the feet so that the loudspeaker achieves a level balance.
Upward Tilt
Short Feet in
Front Inserts
No Tilt
Short Feet in
Rear Inserts
Downward Tilt
Long Feet in
Rear Inserts
mAking ConneCtions
CAUTION: Never make or break connections unless all
system components are powered off.
obseRve PRoPeR PolARity
Connect the amplifier’s positive (+) terminal to the positive (+) terminal
on the loudspeaker; connect the amplifier’s negative (–) terminal to
the negative (–) terminal on the loudspeaker. Do not reverse polarities
(that is, do not connect + to –, or – to +) when making connections.
Doing so will cause diminished dialog intelligibility and diminished bass
response.
sPeAkeR CAble
Use high-quality loudspeaker cable with a maximum total loop
resistance of 0.07 ohms or less for each wire run. Refer to the table
below to determine the appropriate wire gauge for your installation.
minimum wiRe gAuge
Maximum Wire
Length (Feet)
< 87 < 27 6
< 69 < 21 7
< 58 < 18 8
< 43 < 13 9
< 34 < 10 10
< 27 < 8 11
< 22 < 7 12
< 17 < 5 13
< 14 < 4 14
< 11 < 3.5 15
< 9 < 3 16
< 7 < 2 17
< 5 < 1.5 18
Maximum Wire
Length (Meters)
Minimum Wire
Gauge (AWG)
ENGLISH
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
NOTE: High loop resistances that exceed 0.07 ohms (for each
wire run) will cause the loudspeaker’s filter network to be misterminated, resulting in considerable degradation of sound quality.
CAUTION: Revel C208 and C205 loudspeakers are designed
to be used with an external crossover (high-pass
filter), such as is found in the center channel outputs of
surround processors and audio/video receivers. An 80Hz
crossover frequency is ideal, and will minimize dynamic
compression and distortion. If desired, the C208 may be
used with crossover frequencies as low as 50Hz.
If the AVR/processor only offers “Large” and “Small”
settings for the center channel, select the “Small” setting
for both the C208 and C205.
5
C205 ConneCtions
The C205 features gold-plated binding posts that allow single-wire
connection.
C205
Connector Panel
Amplifier
(one channel shown)
C208 ConneCtions
Before making connections to the C208, note the following:
• The standard connection method uses a single loudspeaker cable.
The C208 is equipped with two pairs of input terminals to allow for
bi-wiring or bi-amping. While Revel does not endorse one particular
connection method over another, these additional connection
options are available if desired. The design of this loudspeaker is
such that optimal performance can be attained using the standard
connection method.
• When making bi-amped connections, both power amplifier
channels must receive identical input signals from the associated
preamplifier. If the associated preamplifier does not offer two
connectors for the center channel, a “Y” adaptor is required.
• If desired, contact your authorized Revel dealer for information
about the suitability of power amplifier components before
connecting the C208 to your power amplifier(s).
• Review the owner’s manuals for all associated audio components to
determine their correct connection procedures.
C208 Single-Wired Connection
NOTE: Do not remove the shorting straps between the speaker
terminals.
Single-wired connections are the most common. These are made
between one pair of C208 input terminals and one power amplifier
output channel as shown below.
Do NOT
Remove
Shorting
Straps
Amplifier
(one channel shown)
C208
Connector Panel
To make single-wired connections, connect one loudspeaker cable to
the desired set of C208 input terminals. (The high-frequency – “HIGH”
– input terminals are recommended.) Then connect the other end of that
loudspeaker cable to the desired power amplifier output channel.
C208 Bi-Wired Connections
CAUTION: Remove the shorting straps before making
bi-wired connections. Failure to do so may cause damage
to some power amplifiers.
Bi-wired connections use two sets of loudspeaker cables to connect
both sets of C208 input terminals to a single power amplifier output
channel as shown below.
C208
Connector
Amplifier
(one channel
shown)
Use Both
Sets of
Terminals
Panel
Shorting
Straps
Removed
1. Remove the shorting straps.
2. Connect one loudspeaker cable to the high-frequency set of C208
input terminals. Then connect the other end of that loudspeaker
cable to the desired power amplifier output channel.
3. Connect another loudspeaker cable to low-frequency set of C208
input terminals. Then connect the other end of that loudspeaker
cable to the same power amplifier output channel that you
connected in step 2.
6
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
C208 Bi-Amped Connections
CAUTION: Remove the shorting straps before making
bi-amped connections. Failure to do so may cause damage
to some power amplifiers.
Bi-amped connections are made between both pairs of C208 input
terminals and two separate output channels of a single power amplifier.
Each C208 input is connected to an individual power amplifier channel,
which can sometimes increase sonic performance.
Y-Adapter for
Single Connector
CENTER CHANNEL
PREOUT
Preamp/Processor
OUTPUT A OUTPUT B
INPUT A
NOTE:
When making bi-amped connections, both power amplifier
channels must receive identical input signals from the associated
preamp/processor. If the associated preamp/processor only has
one connector for the center channel, a “Y” adapter is required.
C208
Connector
Panel
ENGLISH
INPUT B
Two-Channel
Amplifier
1. Remove the shorting straps.
2. Connect one loudspeaker cable to the high-frequency set of C208
input terminals. Then connect the other end of that loudspeaker
cable to the desired power amplifier output channel.
3. Connect another loudspeaker cable to the low-frequency set
of C208 input terminals. Then connect the other end of that
loudspeaker cable to the other output channel of the same power
amplifier you connected to the high-frequency input terminals.
Shorting
Straps
Removed
4. Connect both amplifier channel inputs to the center channel output
of the preamp/processor. If the preamp/processor only has one
connector for the center channel, use a “Y”-adaptor.
NOTE: Do not use an electronic crossover network when
bi-amping a Revel C208 loudspeaker. Doing so will cause a
considerable degradation of sound quality.
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
7
oPtimizing PeRfoRmAnCe
C208 Adjustments
As discussed in the C208/C205 Overview section on page 2, the C208 has
Low-Frequency Compensation and Tweeter Level adjustments that allow
you to tailor its performance for your individual listening situation and
personal preferences.
Once you have installed and connected your loudspeaker we suggest
following these steps the first time you turn you new C208 loudspeaker on:
1. Set the Tweeter Level switch to 0. (The control should normally be
left in the default “0” position.)
2. Set the Low Frequency Compensation switch to the appropriate
position.
• Select the Normal setting if the loudspeaker is located at least
3 feet (0.91m) from walls.
• Select the Boundary setting if the loudspeaker is flush-mounted
in an entertainment center or shelving unit or if the loudspeaker
is located less than about 2 feet (0.61m) from walls and other
objects.
CAUTION: Do not operate the switch while audio is playing
through the speaker.
3. Begin playback of a familiar film or music source.
4. Listen from the primary listening position, increasing the volume to
a comfortable level.
5. Experiment with the loudspeakers’ placement to achieve the best
overall tonal balance, and spatial integration with the front left
and front right loudspeakers. There should be little tonal change
in a sound as it moves from left to right or right to left. Refer to
the Installation Considerations section on page 4 for additional
information about loudspeaker placement.
6. If necessary, adjust the Tweeter Level switch on the loudspeaker to
change high-frequency balance and timbre to fine-tune the overall
tonal balance with that of the front left and front right speakers.
CAUTION: Do not operate the switch while audio is playing
through the speaker.
loudsPeAkeR volume levels
The high-order filters employed in Revel Performa3 series loudspeakers
include steep cut-offs to reduce potential transducer damage from
“out-of-band” frequencies. Combined with carefully selected
transducers and filter network components, this approach helps the
Performa3 floorstanding loudspeakers maintain their performance
under extreme operating conditions.
However, all loudspeakers have limits when it comes to continuous
playback. To avoid exceeding these limits, avoid playback at volume
levels that distort or strain the sound.
CAUTION: To avoid damage, reduce volume level
immediately if the loudspeaker sound is not clean and clear.
CARing foR youR loudsPeAkeRs
gRilles
Revel Performa3 center channel speakers feature grilles with a magnetic
attachment method that eliminates unsightly attachment hardware from
the speaker baffle, so if you decide to use your speakers with the grilles
removed they will retain their elegant appearance.
CAbinet finish
The cabinet’s wood veneer finish does not require routine maintenance.
Cabinet surfaces that have been marked with dust, fingerprints, or other
dirt can be cleaned using a soft cloth – preferably micro-fiber, and high
quality auto wax. Take care not to come in contact with the transducers.
Use caution to avoid contacting the rubberized trim on the sides of the
loudspeaker with auto wax. If necessary, the rubberized trim can be
cleaned with denatured alcohol on a microfiber cloth.
To clean the grille, gently vacuum it using a soft-bristled brush vacuum
attachment with the vacuum cleaner set to the lowest possible suction.
CAUTION: To prevent cabinet damage, do not use a cloth
made with steel wool or metal polish to clean the cabinet.
To prevent possible transducer damage, do not apply
furniture polish directly to the cabinet.
7. Experiment with the Low-Frequency Compensation switch to
achieve the best low-frequency performance for your particular
listening room and installation.
8
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
sPeCifiCAtions
C208
Type: 3-way dual 8" center channel loudspeaker
Low-frequency transducer: Two 8" (200mm) aluminum cones, with cast frames
Midrange transducer: 4" (100mm) aluminum cone, with cast frame
High-frequency transducer: 1" (25mm) aluminum dome, with acoustic lens waveguide
Recommended amplifier power range: 50 – 350 watts
Low-frequency extension: 34Hz (–10dB); 41Hz (–6dB); 50Hz (–3dB)
Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
Sensitivity (2.83V/1m): 89dB
Crossover frequencies: 375Hz; 2.45kHz
Enclosure type: Sealed
Controls: Low-frequency contour; high-frequency level
Inputs: Dual gold-plated binding posts with shorting straps
Available finishes: Piano black, high-gloss walnut
Dimensions (H x W x D): 11-13/16" x 28-15/16" x 13-3/4" (300mm x 735mm x 350mm)
Weight: 51.5 lb (23.4kg)
ENGLISH
C205
Type: 2-way dual 5-1/4" center channel loudspeaker
Low-frequency transducer: Two 5-1/4" (130mm) aluminum cones, with cast frames
High-frequency transducer: 1" (25mm) aluminum dome, with acoustic lens waveguide
Recommended amplifier power range: 50 – 120 watts
Low-frequency extension: 46Hz (–10dB); 62Hz (–6dB); 80Hz (–3dB)
Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
Sensitivity (2.83V/1m): 89dB
Crossover frequencies: 1.7kHz
Enclosure type: Sealed
Inputs: Gold-plated binding posts
Available finishes: Piano black, piano white, high-gloss walnut
Dimensions (H x W x D): 7-7/8" x 21" x 11-1/2" (200mm x 532mm x 292mm)
Weight: 26.1 lb (11.9kg)
Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
9
wARRAnty
Revel Series speakers are warranted against defects. The duration of the speaker’s warranty depends on the laws in the country in which it was
purchased. Your local Revel retailer can help you determine the length of your warranty.
HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated
8500 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, CA 91329 USA
© 2012 HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated. All rights reserved.
Revel and the Revel logo are trademarks of HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated,
registered in the United States and/or other countries.
Features, specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.
For questions, assistance or additional information concerning any of our products, call us
at: (516) 594-0300 or (888) 691-4171. For technical support, submit your detailed inquiry to:
csupport@harman.com.
Part No. REVP4834 Rev: A
www.revelspeakers.com
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