Infinity CASCADE FIFTEEN User Manual

ENGLISH

CASCADE

™

Compact Powered Subwoofer

CASCADE™MODEL FIFTEEN

Owner’s Guide

(230V)

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS READ FIRST!

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock,

do not remove cover (or back).

No user-serviceable parts inside.

Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

CAUTION: To prevent electric shock,

do not use this (polarized) plug with

an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet

unless the blades can be fully inserted to

prevent blade exposure.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended to

“dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.

General:

1. Unpacking.Check the product carefully.If it has been dam-

aged in transit,report the damage immediately by calling your
dealer and/or the shipping company that delivered it.

2. Connections. Whenever changing, connecting or discon­necting signal or power cables etc., always turn off all equip­ment.This prevents transients from entering the equipment and
prevents electrical energy from reaching you.Keep all connec­tions out of the reach of children.Before moving the unit,be
certain to disconnect any interconnection cords with other
components, and make certain that you disconnect any powe­red units from the AC outlet.

3. Read Instructions. All the safety and operating instructions
should be read before the product is operated.

4. Retain Instructions.The safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.

5. Heed Warnings. All warnings on the product and in the oper­ating instructions should be adhered to.

6. Follow Instructions. All operating and use instructions
should be followed.

7.Water and Moisture. The product 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. No naked flame sources such as lighted candles
should be placed on the apparatus.

8.Accessories. To ensure proper operation and to avoid the
potential for safety hazards,place the unit on a firm and level
surface.When placing the unit on a shelf,be certain that the
shelf and any mounting hardware can support the product’s
weight. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket,or table.The product may fall, causing serious
injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product.
Use only with a cart, stand,tripod, bracket,or table recom­mended by the manufacturer,or sold with the product.Any
mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s
instructions,and should use a mounting accessory recom­mended by the manufacturer.

9.Wall or Ceiling Mounting. The product should be mounted
on a wall or ceiling only when and as recommended by the
manufacturer.

10. Cleaning. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before
cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.Use
a damp cloth for cleaning.

11.Attachments. Do not use attachments not recommended
by the product manufacturer,as they may cause hazards.

12. Replacement Parts. When replacement parts are
required,be sure the service technician has used replace­ment parts specified by the manufacturer or that have the
same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized sub­stitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.

alert the user to the presence of uninsulated

Attention should be drawn to the environmental aspects of
battery disposal.

13. Safety Check. Upon completion of any service or repairs
to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety
checks to determine that the product is in proper operating
condition.

14. Feet/Spikes. When positioning,or moving this product
ensure that is lifted rather than dragged across any floor/
mounting surface.This will avoid any damage to the floor/
mounting surface.Attention! Products and/or product feet
constructed of rubber or plastics may, in seldom cases, react
chemically and discolor treated or non-treated wooden sur­faces if positioned without protection.

15.Warranty. The following conditions may result in a void
product warranty:

a. the manufacturers serial number is removed or forged.
b. if repairs and/or modifications and/or other treatments/

tunings have been carried out by non-authorized personnel
or accessories/supplements are attached, which are not
approved by manufacturer/importer.

16.Warranty.The following items are not covered by the
product warranty:

a. Damage caused by inappropriate handling despite clear

instructions provided in the owners manual.

b. Damage to mechanical parts (such as record-/playback

heads, moving rubber and plastic parts and fuses) as well

as results of normal wear and tear.
c. Damage caused by external action or influence.
d. Damage caused by missuse by user.
e. Damage caused by excessive electrical mains supply

voltage or lightning strike.
f. Damage caused by fire, water or smoke.
g. Damage known to buyer prior to purchase.
h. Damage caused by professional employment of home

entertainment products (e.g. for catering trade, restau-

rants, public address or infinite loop announcement use

etc.)

17. Specifications.All product specifications/features are
subject to change without notification.

Passive Products:

18.Amplifiers: Amplifiers used to drive these units must

deliver a sufficient output power.A lack of output power may
lead to amplifier-clipping,which causes damage not covered
by guarantee.

Active (Powered) Products:

19.Ventilation. Slots and openings in the cabinet are provid-

ed for ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the
product and to protect it from overheating, and these open­ings must not be blocked or covered.The openings should
never be blocked by placing the product on a bed,sofa, rug,
or other similar surface.This product should not be placed in
a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless
proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s instruc­tions have been adhered to. Make certain that the proper
space (more than 10cm) is provided both above and below
the unit for ventilation. If the amplifier will be installed in a
cabinet or other enclosed area, make certain that there is
sufficient air movement within the cabinet,with means pro­vided for hot air to exit and for cool air to be brought in.

Do not obstruct the ventilation slots on the top of the unit or
place objects directly over them.Remember,power amplifiers
generate heat, and the heatsink fins and ventilation slots that
form part of the cabinet are specially designed to remove
this heat. Placing other electronic equipment near these
heat-dissipation systems may possibly affect the long term
reliability of both your amplifier and the objects placed
above it. Do not place CDs,record jackets, owner’s manuals
or other paper on top of or beneath the unit or in between
products containing amplifiers in a stack.This will block the
air flow,causing degraded performance and a possible fire
hazard.

20. Power Sources. This product should be operated only
from the type of power source indicated on the marking
label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your
home, consult your product dealer or local power company.
For products intended to operate from battery power,or other
sources,refer to the operating instructions.

21. Grounding or Polarization.This product may be equipped
with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having
one blade wider than the other).This plug will fit into the
power outlet only one way.This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the
plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety pur­pose of the polarized plug.

22. 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 product.To avoid safety haz­ards, use only the power cord supplied with your unit.If a
replacement cord is used,make certain that it is of a similar
gauge.We do not recommend using extension cords with this
product.As with all electrical devices, do not run power cords
under rugs or carpets or place heavy objects on power
cords. Damaged power cords should be replaced immediate­ly,by a qualified service technician, with cords meeting fac­tory specifications.When disconnecting the power cord from
an AC outlet,always pull the plug; never pull the cord.

23. Non-use Periods. The power cord of the product should be
unplugged from the outlet when left unused for long periods
of time.

24. Lightning. For added protection for this product during a
lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for
long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and discon­nect the antenna or cable system.This will prevent damage to
the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

25. Overloading. Do not overload wall outlets,extension
cords, or integral convenience receptacles,as this can result
in a risk of fire or electric shock.

26. Damage Requiring Service. Do not attempt to service this
product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Unplug this prod­uct from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified ser­vice personnel under the following conditions:

a.The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
b. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into,the

product; or
c.The product has been exposed to rain or water; or
d.The product does not operate normally when following the

operating instructions.Adjust only those controls that are

covered by the operating instructions, as an improper

adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will

often require extensive work by a qualified technician to

restore the product to its normal operation; or
e.The product has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged;

or
f. The product does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance.

27. Object and Liquid Entry. Never push objects of any kind
into this product through openings,as they may touch danger­ous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire
or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing
and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be
placed on the apparatus.

28. Heat. The product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators,heat registers, stoves or other
products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.Avoid
installation in extremely hot or cold locations,the use of
apparatus in moderate climates,in an area that is exposed to
direct sunlight or near heating equipment.When positioning
the product in its final location, make certain that it has ade­quate ventilation on all sides,as well as on the top and
bottom.

ii

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN OWNER

S GUIDE

’

Table of Contents

ii Important Safety Precautions

1 Unpacking the Subwoofer

1 Placement

2 Controls and Connections

3 Connections

4 Operation

™

5 Room Adaptive Bass Optimization System

6 Contents of the R.A.B.O.S.Test CD

6 The R.A.B.O.S. Sound-Level Meter (RSLM)

6 RSLM Placement

7 Initial System-Level Setting

7 Setting the Subwoofer Test Level

7 Performing Low-Frequency Measurements

9 What Does a Parametric Equalizer Do?

9 Completing the Measurement Template

(R.A.B.O.S.™)

ENGLISH

10 Using the Width Selector

11 Level

11 What You Measure,What to Do

14 Adjusting the R.A.B.O.S.Equalizer

15 Final System Balance

16 Maintenance and Service

17 R.A.B.O.S. Measurement Templates

19 Specifications

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

iii

Infinity Cascade™Model Fifteen

The Infinity Cascade Model Fifteen continues Infinity’s long­standing commitment to accurate sound reproduction.Our
advanced drivers, high-powered amplifier and proprietary Room
Adaptive Bass Optimization System,
braced enclosure, combine to deliver uncompromising bass
performance in any stereo or multichannel home theater.In
addition, the slim profile allows for easy integration into any
residential environment.

™

along with a rigid, well-

Unpacking the Subwoofer

If you suspect damage from transit,report it immediately to
your dealer. Keep the shipping carton and packing materials for
future use.

PLACEMENT

Since the installation of a subwoofer can be somewhat more
complicated than installing full-range speakers,it is essential
that you read this section very carefully prior to connecting the
subwoofer to your system. Should you have questions relating to
your installation, it is advisable to call either your dealer or
Infinity’s Customer Service Department for advice.

The performance of the subwoofer is directly related to its
placement in the listening room and how you align the sub­woofer with its satellite speakers.Setting the volume of the
subwoofer in relation to the left and right speakers is also of
critical importance because it is essential that the subwoofer
integrate smoothly with the entire system. Setting the sub­woofer’s volume level too high will result in an overpowering,
boomy bass. Setting the volume level too low will negate the
benefits of the subwoofer.

SUB

RIGHT­CHANNEL

SPEAKER

PRIMARY
LISTENING
AREA

Here are several additional facts on installation that may prove
useful. It is generally believed by most audio authorities that
low frequencies (below 125Hz) are nondirectional and, there­fore,placement of a subwoofer within any listening room is not
critical.While in theory it is true that the larger wavelengths of
extremely low frequencies are basically nondirectional, the fact
is that, when installing a subwoofer within the limited confines
of a room, reflections,standing waves and absorptions generat­ed within the room will strongly influence the performance of
any subwoofer system.As a result, the specific location of the
subwoofer becomes important, and we strongly recommend that
you experiment with placement before choosing a final loca­tion.

Placement will depend upon your room and the amount and
quality of bass required (for example, whether or not your room
permits placement of the subwoofer near either satellite).

Figure 1.This example shows the subwoofer positioned behind
the right-channel satellite speaker to re-create the actual
location of bass instruments in an orchestra and/or add impact
to movie soundtracks.

1

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS

Rear Panel

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0 Line-Level Inputs

1 Line-Level Outputs

2 Power Indicator

3 Subwoofer Level (Volume) Control

4 Crossover Adjustment

5 Phase Switch

‚

6 Normal/LFE Selector

7 Power Switch

Bass Optimization Controls (see page 5)

8 R.A.B.O.S.Selector

⁄

9 Center-Frequency Adjustment

A Bass Optimization System Level

Adjustment

B Bass Optimization System Bandwidth

Adjustment

ENGLISH

•

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

2

CONNECTIONS

If you have a Dolby* Digital or DTS®receiver/
processor with a low-frequency-effects (LFE)
output:

SUBWOOFER OR
LFE OUTPUT

• Set Normal/LFE Switch to LFE.

If your receiver/processor has subwoofer
outputs for the left and right channels:

• Set Low-Pass Switch to On.

• Set Normal/LFE Switch to Normal.

NOTE: In this case, you do not need to use a Y connector. Simply
connect the LFE output on your receiver/processor to either the
left or right input on the subwoofer.

The Cascade Model Fifteen also includes a set of line
outputs.These outputs allow you to “daisy-chain”one
Model Fifteen to multiple Model Fifteen subwoofers.
Simply connect the first subwoofer as described above
and then run a subwoofer cable from the line output(s)
to the line input(s) on the next sub.

NOTE: This line output is before the R.A.B.O.S. circuit.
Each sub-woofer’s R.A.B.O.S.controls must be
individually adjusted during the R.A.B.O.S. setup.

SUBWOOFER OR
LFE OUTPUT

NOTE: Some receivers have a single subwoofer output (do not
confuse this with a single LFE output as described to the left).
In that case, it is recommended that you use a Y connector (not
included) to maximize performance.

OR

3

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

OPERATION

Power On

Plug your subwoofer’sAC cord into a wall outlet.Do not use the
outlets on the back of the receiver.

Initially set the Subwoofer Level (Volume) Control 3 to the
“min”position.

Turn on your sub by pressing the Power Switch 7 on the
rear panel.

Auto On/Standby

With the Power Switch 7 in the ON position, the Power
Indicator LED 2 will remain backlit in red or green to indicate
the On/Standby mode of the subwoofer.

RED = STANDBY (No signal detected,Amp Off)
GREEN = ON (Signal detected,Amp On)
The subwoofer will automatically enter the Standby mode after

approximately 10 minutes when no signal is detected from your
system.The subwoofer will then power ON instantly when a
signal is detected. During periods of normal use, the Power
Switch 7 can be left on.You may turn off the Power Switch 7
for extended periods of nonoperation,e.g.,when you are away
on vacation.

Adjust Gain

Turn on your entire audio system and start a CD or movie
soundtrack at a moderate level.Turn up the Subwoofer Level
(Volume) Control 3 about halfway. If no sound emanates from
the subwoofer, check the AC-line cord and input cables.Are the
connectors on the cables making proper contact? Is the AC
plug connected to a “live”receptacle? Has the Power Switch
7 been pressed to the “On”position? Once you have
confirmed that the subwoofer is active, proceed by playing a
CD, record or cassette.Use a selection that has ample bass
information.

ENGLISH

Crossover Adjustments

NOTE: This control will have no effect if the Normal/LFE
Selector Switch 6 is set to “LFE.”If you have a Dolby Digital
or DTS processor/receiver, the Crossover Frequency is set by
the processor/receiver. Consult your owner’s manual to learn
how to view or change this setting.

The Crossover Adjustment Control 4 determines the highest
frequency at which the subwoofer reproduces sounds. If your
main speakers can comfortably reproduce some low-frequency
sounds, set this control to a lower frequency setting,between
50Hz and 100Hz.This will concentrate the subwoofer’s efforts
on the ultradeep bass sounds required by today’s films and
music. If you are using smaller bookshelf speakers that do not
extend to the lower bass frequencies,set the Crossover
Adjustment Control to a higher setting, between 120Hz and
150Hz.

Phase Control

The Phase Switch 5 determines whether the subwoofer
speaker’s piston-like action moves in and out with the main
speakers, 0˚, or opposite the main speakers,180˚. Proper
phase adjustment depends on several variables such as room
size, subwoofer placement and listener position.Adjust the
phase switch to maximize bass output at the listening position.

Set the overall volume control of the preamplifier or stereo to a
comfortable level.Adjust the Subwoofer Level (Volume) Control
3 until you obtain a pleasing blend of bass. Bass response
should not overpower the room but rather should be adjusted
so there is a harmonious blend across the entire musical
range. Many users have a tendency to set the subwoofer volume
too loud, adhering to the belief that a subwoofer is there to
produce lots of bass.This is not entirely true.A subwoofer is
there to enhance bass,extending the response of the entire
system so the bass can be felt as well as heard. However,
overall balance must be maintained or the music will not sound
natural.An experienced listener will set the volume of the
subwoofer so its impact on bass response is always there but
never obtrusive.

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

4

ROOM ADAPTIVE BASS OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM™(R.A.B.O.S.™)

Infinity’s R.A.B.O.S. is a simple-to-use,yet sophisticated,
low-frequency calibration system. It is designed to work in
conjunction with the Cascade Model Fifteen self-amplified
subwoofer. The subwoofer contains a parametric equalizer
that you will adjust as indicated by the R.A.B.O.S.test results.
Following these instructions,you will optimize the Cascade
Model Fifteen’s response characteristics to complement its
environment.This will dramatically improve the sound of your
system.The optimization process takes less than 30 minutes.

The R.A.B.O.S. Kit Includes
the Following Components:

• Specialized Sound-Level Meter

• Test CD

• Instructions

• Measurement Templates

• Width Selector

• Adjustment “Key”

What R.A.B.O.S.Does

The Test CD provides specially designed signals you will use
while performing measurements.The sound-level meter
provided is used to “acquire”the information needed for
adjustments.You will create a response plot on the
Measurement Template.Using the Width Selector, you will then
determine the appropriate equalizer settings.The “Key” is used
to adjust the parametric equalizer built into the Cascade Model
Fifteen.After adjustment,the test sequence is repeated to
confirm your settings.

The R.A.B.O.S. Goal

It is a fact of audio that what we hear at low frequencies is
determined as much or more by the listening room than by the
loudspeaker itself.Placement of the loudspeakers and listeners
and the acoustical characteristics of the room surfaces are all
important determinants of bass quantity and quality. In most
practical situations, there is little that can be done about this,
except for patient trial-and-error repositioning of the
loudspeakers and listeners.Usually, the practical constraints
of a living space and the impracticality of massive acoustical
treatment mean that equalization is the only practical solution.

Performing R.A.B.O.S.Tests

These instructions assume you have already installed your
subwoofer according to the information provided in the Owner’s
Guide. It is also assumed that all equipment in your
entertainment system is interconnected properly and is in good
operating condition.

Preparations

Before beginning R.A.B.O.S. tests, please check the following:

• Set R.A.B.O.S.switch 8 to On position.

• Make sure all three R.A.B.O.S. controls, 9, A and B,on

the subwoofer are turned fully clockwise.

• Make sure the loudness contour (if any) on your receiver/
processor/preamp is turned off.

• Set the tone controls (Bass and Treble) to their center or
flat positions.

• Bypass all surround and effects features of your receiver/
processor/preamp or set to Stereo Bypass.

• If you are using a multichannel surround processor or
receiver, make sure all bass-management features are
properly set.The Audio channels should all be set to “Small”
or “High-Pass” and the subwoofer set to “On.”

You must have a CD player in the system. A CD player remote
control is quite convenient but not essential.

For best results,it is recommended that all major furnishings
are in place and that all doors and windows in the listening
area are in their normal positions.That is, if you normally listen
to music with all doors closed, then this is how they should be
during this procedure.

Try to minimize ambient noise while running tests. Turn off all
major appliances and any air conditioning or furnace fans.
These can create significant subsonic noise that may be barely
perceptible but which can wreak havoc on low-frequency
measurements.

Critical information is highlighted with this mark:

Helpful hints are marked with this symbol:

Professional sound engineers routinely employ sophisticated
measurement systems and equalizers to optimize speakers to
the installation.This has never been practical for the home
audiophile.This is why R.A.B.O.S. was created. R.A.B.O.S.
enables you to identify the dominant low-frequency response
characteristic of your room.Once you know the problem,
R.A.B.O.S.provides the tools needed to optimize the low­frequency characteristics of the speakers to the room they are
in, exactly as the professional sound engineers do it.

5

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

Power

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U-R

Batt

Contents of the R.A.B.O.S. Test CD

Track Title

1 Welcome
2 Set System Test Level
3 Set Subwoofer Test Level
4 100Hz Test
5 95Hz Test
6 90Hz Test
7 85Hz Test
8 80Hz Test
9 77Hz Test
10 72Hz Test
11 66Hz Test
12 63Hz Test
13 56Hz Test
14 52Hz Test
15 49Hz Test
16 46Hz Test
17 43Hz Test
18 40Hz Test
19 38Hz Test
20 35Hz Test
21 30Hz Test
22 26Hz Test
23 24Hz Test
24 22Hz Test
25 21Hz Test
26 20Hz Test
27 Intro to Quick Retest
28 Quick Retest 100Hz
29 Quick Retest 95Hz
30 Quick Retest 90Hz
31 Quick Retest 85Hz

Tracks 53–62 of the R.A.B.O.S.Test CD are test tones that can
be used for general diagnostics of your system.They are not
used for R.A.B.O.S.settings.

Track Title

32 Quick Retest 80Hz
33 Quick Retest 77Hz
34 Quick Retest 72Hz
35 Quick Retest 66Hz
36 Quick Retest 63Hz
37 Quick Retest 56Hz
38 Quick Retest 52Hz
39 Quick Retest 49Hz
40 Quick Retest 46Hz
41 Quick Retest 43Hz
42 Quick Retest 40Hz
43 Quick Retest 38Hz
44 Quick Retest 35Hz
45 Quick Retest 30Hz
46 Quick Retest 26Hz
47 Quick Retest 24Hz
48 Quick Retest 22Hz
49 Quick Retest 21Hz
50 Quick Retest 20Hz
51 Final System Level Adjustment
52 Final Subwoofer Level Adjustment
53 Wide Band Pink Noise,Left
54 Wide Band Pink Noise,L+R
55 Wide Band Pink Noise,Right
56 Wide Band Pink Noise,L-R
57 Wide Band Pink Noise,Uncorrelated
58 1 to 4kHz Pink Noise, Left
59 1 to 4kHz Pink Noise, L+R
60 1 to 4kHz Pink Noise, Right
61 1 to 4kHz Pink Noise, Left-R
62 1 to 4kHz Pink Noise, Uncorrelated

THE R.A.B.O.S. SOUND-LEVEL METER (RSLM)

The RSLM is a battery-operated, handheld, acoustic measure­ment device specifically designed for Infinity R.A.B.O.S.On the
face of the instrument is a light-emitting diode (LED) bar graph
that indicates relative sound level.There are also indicators for
power-on,out-of-range signals and a low battery.

Power is switched on or off by pressing the button directly
below the bar-graph window.When the unit is on, one or more
LEDs will always be illuminated.The function of the LEDs is
described in the following section.

Power/On

Under-range

Measurement

In-range

Over-Range Low

Battery

Figure 3. RSLM bar-graph indications

• Power-On/Low Signal: This is indicated by the illumination of

any LED on the bar graph. If the sound level in the room is
below the measurement range of the instrument,a green LED
near the bottom of the bar graph will be illuminated.

• Measurement In-Range (Normal Measurements):When the

sound level is within the range of the RSLM,the green LED will
be off and one of the red LEDs in the bar graph will be
illuminated, indicating the relative sound level, in decibels (dB).

• Over-Range: If the sound level exceeds the range of the

meter, 0dB through –5 will all light simultaneously.

• Low Battery: When the battery voltage is too low for accurate

measurements,an LED at the bottom of the bar graph will be
illuminated. Replace the battery.

Do not attempt measurements when this light is on.

RSLM Placement

Determine where in the room you are most likely to sit when
listening to music or watching a movie.This is where you will
want to hold the RSLM during measurements.The RSLM should
be oriented so it can be easily read and held at your seated
ear level during tests.

ENGLISH

You must use this same position for all tests.

The RSLM can be mounted on a standard camera tripod.

This will ensure the best results.

Figure 2. R.A.B.O.S. Sound-Level Meter

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

6

Initial System-Level Setting

The following steps will set the playback level of the system to
the correct level for all tests that follow.

Turn the system volume to minimum.

Cue the R.A.B.O.S.Test CD to Track 2 and press Pause II.This
track will produce band-limited pink noise in both the left and
right channels.

Press Play ›. With the RSLM positioned as described above,
increase the systemvolume until the RSLM display indicates
–10dB. See Figure 4.

Figure 4. RSLM indicating the
correct system level to
begin tests (–10dB)

When you have completed this adjustment,press Pause II.

Press Play
Watch for peak readings. The peak reading may be no more
than a brief flash. Readjust the subwoofer’s Level control 3
until the peak level observed is 0dB without triggering the
overrange indication. See Figure 5.

Figure 5. Adjusting the subwoofer levels for a 0dB peak

When finished, press Pause II.

›

.As Track 3 plays, watch the RSLM carefully.

Too low Correct level Too high

Performing Low-Frequency Measurements

Read the following instructions fully before beginning

tests.

Setting the Subwoofer Test Level

Each of the following test tracks is about one minute
long.This is normally much longer than required. Press
Pause II or advance to the next test as soon as you are ready.

This step will set the subwoofer levels for measurement
purposes.The objective is to scale the subwoofer’s output to
make full use of the RSLM indicator range. Scaling is optimum
when a 0dB reading is observed on the highest peak without
triggering the over-range indication. Later, you will rebalance
the subwoofer to the main speakers.

The three R.A.B.O.S. controls,9,A and B, should be set

to fully clockwise positions, and all measurements should be
conducted with their level controls in this position. Confirm this
setting before you begin this test.The Level control 3 should
be set to the mid position.

Cue Track 3 and Pause II.Track 3 continuously steps through
all subwoofer test tones for approximately 1 minute. Each tone
will play just long enough for the RSLM to give a stable
reading.

To get accurate measurements,it is necessary to play
the Cascade Model Fifteen quite loud.The 0dB indication is
about 94dB.At this level, frequencies below 100Hz can cause
doors, windows,furnishings and other objects in the room to
vibrate.This frequently results in clearly audible buzzes and/or
rattles that come and go as each test tone plays.Strong buzzes
not only sound bad; they can cause measurement errors. If you
hear a buzz or rattle during this test, it is highly recommended
that you locate the source and eliminate its effects.This is
actually a valuable room-diagnostic tool.

For the following steps,you will need a Measurement Template
and a pencil.

Figure 6. R.A.B.O.S. Measurement Template

7

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

Each of the following tracks produces a low-frequency test
tone.The range of these tests is from 100Hz down to 20Hz.The
frequency of each test is announced before it begins. The first
test is the highest frequency (100Hz); therefore, you will be
marking the template from right to left.Each frequency point is
listed across the bottom of the Measurement Template (this is
called the X-axis). See Figure 6 on the previous page.The
vertical scale on the left side of the template indicates relative
level,in dBs (the Y-axis).The template’s vertical scale matches
that of the RSLM bar graph.

Cue Track 4 and Pause II .

From now on, you will want to keep your CD player’s

remote control handy.

ENGLISH

When you have completed the 23 measurements, you are ready
to analyze the data and make corrective adjustments.The com­pleted Measurement template will look something like the
example in Figure 9.

Press Play

›

. As Track 4 plays, observe the level indicated on

the RSLM.

EXAMPLE:The test frequency is 100Hz and the level indicated is
–2dB. Find the intersection of 100Hz (X-axis) and –2dB (Y-axis).
Place a dot at that point. See Figure 7.

Figure 7. Locating a test point

It takes a few seconds for the RSLM reading to stabi­lize, especially at very low frequencies. Don’t rush. Give each
test adequate time for the meter to stabilize.

At the bottom of the bar graph is a green “ON”LED.This LED is
illuminated whenever the sound level is below the measuring
range of the RSLM. If this occurs during a test, place a dot at
the intersection of the test frequency and the bottom frame of
the template. See Figure 8.

Figure 9. Completed R.A.B.O.S. template

Now connect the dots as shown in Figure 10.
This will make interpretation of the data much easier.

Figure 10. Test example with dots connected

Figure 8. Indicating an under-range test

When finished, press Skip

››

I to advance to the next test.

Repeat the process described above for Tracks 5 through 26.

2

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

8

At this point, you may simply enter the data you just

STOP

After entering the data, this R.A.B.O.S.wizard will return the
correct settings for all three R.A.B.O.S. controls: 9, A and
B. Skip to page 14 and adjust these controls as described,
and finish the R.A.B.O.S.setup. If you would like to manually
calculate the R.A.B.O.S.settings,simply continue following the
instructions from this point.

measured into the R.A.B.O.S. calculator, found on
the Infinity Web site at www.infinitysystems.com.

What Does a Parametric Equalizer Do?

The R.A.B.O.S.system uses one band of parametric equalization
for response correction. Parametric equalizers are the most
versatile class of filters.The effect an equalizer will have on
the signal is dependent on three parameters.

Frequency:The equalizer will have maximum effect at one
frequency, usually described as the center frequency.

Width

The frequency range of the R.A.B.O.S. equalizer may be set
from 5% to 50% of an octave in 21 steps. This setting defines
how much of the Cascade Model Fifteen’s output will be equal­ized.

Level: This refers to the amount of cut (in dBs) the equalizer
is set for.

Bandwidth: Defines the range of frequencies over which the
equalizer will have an effect. On the Cascade Model Fifteen,
this adjustment is abbreviated as “Width.”

Only parametric equalizers allow independent adjustment of all
three parameters.

These will be explained more fully in the sections that follow.

Completing the Measurement Template

Along the bottom of the Measurement Template are three fields
where you will enter the equalizer settings needed to complete
system optimization.

These instructions are based on the example in Figure 11. Use
this tutorial to become familiar with the process. Strategies for
several other test results will be presented later.After you have
completed these three entry fields,you will be ready to perform
the adjustments, completing R.A.B.O.S.optimization.

Frequency

The frequency of the R.A.B.O.S. equalizer may be adjusted to
any one of nineteen frequencies from 20Hz to 80Hz.This
defines where you are going to apply equalization.

Figure 11. Effect of adjustable width

Width is expressed as a percentage of an octave.For example,
a width setting of 25% means the equalizer will affect a
frequency band of 1/4 of an octave;1/8 of an octave above and
1/8 of an octave below the center frequency.

The octave is a logarithmic expression. From any point
in the spectrum, one octave above or below that point is always
double or half the frequency.Therefore, one octave above
100Hz would be 200Hz. One octave below 100Hz is 50Hz.

In the section that follows, we will discuss the use of the
Width Selector.

9

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

Using the Width Selector

Read the following instructions carefully. The example
presented may not look like the graph you just created.
Focus on the concepts and techniques presented. Specific
cases will be discussed later.

ENGLISH

Figure 12. Width Selector

You will use the Measurement Template just completed and the
Width Selector to determine the correct width setting.The Width
Selector graphically depicts a single resonant peak.The peak
looks similar to a slice of a pie. See Figure 12.At the top of the
Selector is a pull tab.When you slide the tab up and down, the
width of the pie slice becomes narrower and wider, respectively.
The pointers on the sides of the button point to the bandwidth
that corresponds to the width of the slice.

Place the Width Selector over the Measurement Template, posi­tioning the center rivet of the Selector over the response peak,
as shown in Figure 13.Be sure to align the horizontal lines of
the Width Selector with those of the Measurement Template.

Figure 13. Placement of the Bandwidth Selector

Apply pressure to the upper and lower left corners of the
Selector using the thumb and forefinger of your left hand.Now
gently slide the tab up or down until the adjustable slice most
closely fits the response data.See Figure 14.

Figure 14. Selector adjusted for the “best fit”

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

10

The pointer on the slider will indicate the correct width setting.
Enter this number in the Width field of the Measurement
Template. In our example, the width is 12.5%.

It is not realistic to expect a perfect fit.Acoustic
measurements encompass the behavior of not only the speakers
but of the room and its contents as well. Reflected energy,
standing waves and ambient noise all add their part.
Determining the best width setting nearly always requires
compromise.

Level

This setting will define the amount (level) you want to reduce
the peak, in decibels.

The R.A.B.O.S.level adjustment is limited to attenuation only,
and is adjustable from 0dB to –14dB.After optimization, the
R.A.B.O.S.equalizer will eliminate the largest low-frequency
peak; therefore, the broadband bass level can be increased
without overpowering the midrange frequencies. R.A.B.O.S.
applies this compensation automatically.

You will use the Width Selector as an aid in determining the
correct level setting. Place the Width Selector as described
above and adjust it to the correct width. Observe the first
frequency point on the high-frequency side of the peak that no
longer follows the slope of the Width Selector. In this example
this is 56Hz. Calculate the average level of the readings from
56Hz up to 100Hz; that is, 10 data points in this example.

56Hz 63Hz 66Hz 72Hz 77Hz 80Hz 85Hz 90Hz 95Hz 100Hz

–9 –10 –8 –9 –10 –9 –8 –10 –10 –9 –

Whenever your answer has a remainder, always round down
(disregarding the negative [–]) to the next whole number.

In our example, you would enter ”9”in the attenuation field.

92 ÷ 10 = –9.2

Example 1. Single Dominant Peak

Figure 15. Single dominant peak

This is the most common result of speaker/room interaction.

Apply the Width Selector as described in Figure 13.Align the
center line of the Selector over the center of the peak, as
shown in Figure 14.Now adjust the Selector until you have
achieved the “best fit.”The slider now points to the correct
bandwidth setting. In this example, the frequency is 43Hz and
the best-fit width is 12.5%. Fill in the Width and Frequency
fields provided on the template.

Determine the appropriate level using the technique described
earlier. In this example,–9dB would be best. Enter the level in
the field provided.

Skip to the “Adjusting the R.A.B.O.S. Equalizer”section on
page 14.

This may not be the best method in all cases.The next section
contains several other examples.

What You Measure,What to Do

As stated earlier, it is not possible to anticipate the effect of
every possible listening environment. However, most residential
sound rooms share many characteristics, and their dimensions
fall into a range that make some response irregularities far
more likely than others.On the following pages are examples of
what you may encounter. Following each example is a strategy
for correction.Compare your measurement results with the
following examples. Find the one that best fits your graph and
follow the instructions presented for that scenario.

Remember, when looking for a match, look at the
descriptive characteristics, not any specific frequency or level.
Each of these examples can occur at any frequency, bandwidth
and level.It is unlikely that your test results will be exactly as
depicted in these examples.

11

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

Example 2. Two Response Peaks

Figure 16. Two response peaks

Characterized by two response peaks, approximately equal in
amplitude and width.This requires that you make a choice
between the two peaks. In situations like this, the higher
frequency peak will always be more audible and objectionable.
Response peaks below 45Hz, unless extreme, can actually be
beneficial toward achieving visceral impact. Perform
corrections on the upper frequency peak.

ENGLISH

Example 3. Peak Adjacent to a Dip

Apply the Width Selector as described above.Align the
centerline of the Selector over the center of the higher
frequency peak. Now adjust the Selector until you have achieved
the “best fit.”The slider now points to the correct width setting.
In this example, this is at 52Hz.The best-fit width is 28%. Fill in
the Width and Frequency fields provided on the template.

Determine the appropriate level using the technique described
earlier. This calculation will indicate a –8dB setting. However,
this peak does not reach the 0dB level as the lower peak does.
Therefore, a –8dB setting would be excessive.The 52Hz peak
stops at –2dB. Subtracting 2 from 8 yields the correct setting,
–6dB. Enter –6 in the Level field.

Skip to the “Adjusting the R.A.B.O.S. Equalizer”section on
page 14.

Figure 17. Dip above or below peak

Response dips can occur at any frequency, sometimes
immediately adjacent to the peak you want to correct.Two
examples are shown, one immediately above and one
immediately below the peak. Deep response dips such as these
are caused by destructive wave interference. Destructive
interference dips occur only in one spot within the room.It is
not uncommon to completely eliminate the effect by moving the
RSLM to a different location. Note that this does not eliminate
the dips.We have simply moved away from them.Sometimes only
a few inches are required. Do not attempt to correct this
condition with equalization. If you encounter dips like this, take
the following steps:

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

12

1. Select a new test position: Cue the test track corresponding
to the center frequency of the dip.In the first example in Figure
18,you would play Track 13 (56Hz).Press Play
reading very close to what you had before. Now, slowly move the
RSLM around the area,if possible remaining within about a foot
of the original test point.As you move the RSLM, watch the bar
graph.You will observe large level fluctuations. Find a position
that restores the level to approximately that of the adjacent test
points.You may find it helpful to move the RSLM vertically. Dips
can be oriented in any axis.The position that restores the level
to about that of the adjacent test points is your new test
position.

2. Reset the test level: Return to the section “Setting the
Subwoofer Test Level”on page 7.Perform the procedure
as described.

3. Repeat the measurements: Now that you are familiar with the
measurement process,you can go much faster by using Tracks
27–50.These tracks contain all the test tones necessary for
measurement. However, each test is only about three seconds,
and there is no frequency announcement.The first test is
100Hz. Just place each test mark in order until finished.
Connect the dots.

Your second measurement will no longer exhibit the deep
response dip.However, the peak will still be evident.Without the
influence of the response dip,the amplitude and center of the
peak may have changed.Compare your new data to the
examples given in this section of the manual. Follow the
instructions for the example that most closely matches your
new measurement.

›

.You will see a

Although it looks as though this system is quite bass-deficient,
this is actually indicative of a single,very narrow peak in
excess of 10dB high.

Apply the Width Selector as described earlier. Align the center­line of the Selector over the center of the peak, as shown in
Figure 13.Now adjust the Selector until you have achieved the
“best fit.”The slider now points to the correct width setting.In
this example, the frequency is 40Hz and the best-fit width is
10%. Fill in the Width and Frequency fields provided on the
template.

Determine the appropriate level using the technique described
earlier. In this example,–13dB is indicated. Enter ”13”in the
field provided.

Skip to the “Adjusting the R.A.B.O.S. Equalizer”section on
page 14.

Example 5. One or More Narrow Dips

Example 4. Narrow Response

Figure 18. Narrow Response

Figure 19. Example of two narrow dips

Response dips can occur at any frequency, sometimes
immediately adjacent to the peak you want to correct. In this
example, there are two such dips on either side of the peak.
Deep response dips such as these are caused by destructive
wave interference. Destructive interference dips occur only in
one spot within the room. It is not uncommon to completely
eliminate their effect by moving the RSLM to a different
location. Note that this does not eliminate the dips.We have
simply moved away from them. Sometimes only a few inches are
required.Do not attempt to correct this condition with
equalization. If you encounter dips like this, take the following
steps:

13

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

1. Select a new test position: Cue the test track corresponding
to the center frequency of the dip.In the example in Figure 19
you would play Tracks 14 (52Hz) and 18 (40Hz). Press Play ›.
You will see a reading very close to what you had before. Now,
slowly move the RSLM around the area, if possible remaining
within about a foot of the original test point.As you move the
RSLM, watch the bar graph.You will observe large level
fluctuations. Find a location for the subwoofer or a test location
that raises the response at these frequencies. You may find it
helpful to move the RSLM vertically. Dips can be oriented in any
axis.The position that restores the level to about that of the
adjacent test points is your new test position.

2. Reset the test level: Return to the section “Setting the
Subwoofer Test Level”on page 7.Perform the procedure as
described.

ENGLISH

If your test data looks similar to the example in Figure 20,you
have a very favorable setup. Skip to the “Final System Balance”
section on page 15.

Adjusting the R.A.B.O.S.Equalizer

Now that you have performed the measurements and interpreted
the data, you have the information needed to adjust the
subwoofer’s equalizer.

There are three equalizer adjustments on the subwoofer.Left
to right, they are marked Frequency,Level and Width. Each
control has 21 positions.These are numbered from left to right.
Therefore, Position 1 is the full counterclockwise position.
The following table illustrates all switch positions.

Position F (Hz) L (dB) W

3. Repeat the measurements: Now that you are familiar with the
measurement process,you can go much faster by using Tracks
27–50.These tracks contain all the test tones necessary for
measurement. However, each test is only about three seconds,
and there is no frequency announcement.The first test is
100Hz. Just place each test mark in order until finished.
Connect the dots.

Your second measurement will no longer exhibit the deep
response dips.However, the peak will still be evident.Without
the influence of the response dips,the amplitude and center
of the peak may have changed.

4. Interpret the new data: Compare your new data to the
examples given in this section of the manual. Follow the
instructions for the example that most closely matches your
new measurement.

Example 6. Ideal Response

1 CCW 20

220
320
421
522
624
726
830

935
10 38
11 40
12 43
13 46
14 49
15 52
16 56
17 63
18 66

–14.1 4.5%
–13.9 5%
–13.5 7.5%
–13.1 10%
–12.7 12.5%
–11.7 16.5%
–11.0 20.5%
–10.2 23%

–9.5 26%
–8.9 28%
–8.3 29.5%
–7.9 31%
–6.4 34%
–4.4 39%
–2.9 41.5%
–1.9 43.5%
–1.1 45%
–0.5 46.5%

19 72 0.0 48%
20 77 0.0 49%
21 CW 80 0.0 49.5%

Figure 20. Ideal response, no EQ needed

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

14

If using more than one subwoofer, always adjust both sub­woofers together.
Adjust the controls as indicated by the Measurement Template.
Each value shown in the table is represented by detents in the
R.A.B.O.S.controls. Simply count the number of detents neces­sary, indicated by the results of your R.A.B.O.S.Test.

Final System Balance

Cue Track 51 of the R.A.B.O.S.Test CD. Press Play›. Increase
the system volume until the RSLM indicates –10dB. Now play
Track 52.Adjust the subwoofer gain control until –10dB
is indicated on the RSLM. Of course, you may fine-tune the
subwoofer gain control to your listening preference.

Cascade Model Fifteen R.A.B.O.S.Controls

After performing these adjustments, you may skip forward to
the “Final System Balance”section.It is recommended that you
perform a second measurement to confirm that the settings
are correct.

If you are going to retest the system after EQ adjustments,
repeat the “Setting the Subwoofer Test Level” section on
page 7.

Retesting the system will go much faster if you use
Tracks 27–50.These tracks contain all the same test tones you
just used. However, each tone plays for only a few seconds and
there is no frequency announcement.If you are uncomfortable
operating at this pace, you may, of course,perform
measurements with the original test tracks.

This concludes the R.A.B.O.S. process. It is recommended that
you remove the battery from the RSLM. Store the Test CD,Width
Selector, Adjustment Key and the RSLM together.

MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

The enclosure may be cleaned using a soft cloth to remove
fingerprints or to wipe off dust.

All wiring connections should be inspected and cleaned or
remade periodically. The frequency of maintenance depends on
the metals involved in the connections, atmospheric conditions,
and other factors,but once per year is the minimum.

If a problem occurs,make sure that all connections are proper­ly made and clean. If a problem exists in one loudspeaker,
reverse the connection wires to the left and right system. If the
problem remains in the same speaker, then the fault is with the
loud-speaker. If the problem appears in the opposite speaker,
the cause is in another component or cable.

In the event that your subwoofer ever needs service, contact
your local Infinity dealer or distributor, or visit www.infinitysys­tems.com to find a service center near you.

IMPORTANT: Please attach your sales receipt to this manual
and store it in a safe place.In the event that your Infinity speak­er requires warranty service, you will need to provide your sales
receipt.

Your first interpretation of the data and choice of settings may
not be optimum.You can repeat the test-adjust-test cycle as
often as needed to get the desired results.To do this, return to
page 7,“Setting the Subwoofer Test Level.”You may prefer to
retest using the same template.Doing so makes it easy to
evaluate the improvement.

When you are satisfied with the results, go to “Final System
Balance.”

15

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

ENGLISH

Frequency

Hz dB

Width

%

Frequency

Hz dB

Width

%

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

16

Frequency

Hz dB

Width

%

Frequency

17

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

Hz dB

Width

%

SPECIFICATIONS

Cascade Model Fifteen

Frequency Response 32Hz – 150Hz (–3dB)

29Hz – 150Hz (–6dB)

Maximum Amplifier Output 800 watts RMS (20Hz – 150Hz with

no more than 0.1% THD)

Crossover Frequency 50Hz – 150Hz, 24dB/octave,

continuously variable (Normal/LFE switch set to ”Normal”)

Drivers Four 152mm x152mm (6" x 6")

Dimensions (H x W x D) 330mm x 940mm x 216mm

(13" x 37" x 8-1/2")

Weight 44.5kg (98 lb)

Infinity continually strives to update and improve existing products, as well as create new ones.
The specifications and construction details in this and related Infinity publications are therefore
subject to change without notice.

ENGLISH

Declaration of Conformity

We, Harman Consumer Group International

2, route de Tours
72500 Chateau du Loir
France

declare in own responsibility that the product described
in this owner’s manual is in compliance with technical
standards:

EN 55013:2001+A1:2003
EN 55020:2002+A1:2003
EN 61000-3-2:2000
EN 61000-3-3:1995+A1:2001
EN 60065:2002

Harman Consumer Group International

Laurent Rault

Chateau du Loir, France 1/06

CASCADE MODEL FIFTEEN

18

Infinity Systems, 250 Crossways Park Drive,Woodbury, NY 11797 USA 516.674.4INF (4463) (USA only)
www.infinitysystems.com

Infinity and Harman International are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated, registered in the United States and/or other countries.
Cascade, Room Adaptive Bass Optimization System and R.A.B.O.S. are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.
Dolby is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories.
DTS is a registered trademark of DTS,Inc.
Part No. 819001082007
© 2005 Harman International Industries,Incorporated. All rights reserved.