Martin audio EM186, EM76, EM201, EM56, EM251 user manual

Martin Audio – EM SERIES

CONTENTS (ENGLISH) Page No

1 INTRODUCTION 2
2 UNPACKING 2
3 OVERVIEW 2

3.1 EM26 3

3.2 EM56 3

3.3 EM76 3

3.4 EM186 3

3.5 EM201 and EM251 3

4 SAFETY FIRST 4

4.1 Rigging and Suspension 4
5 AMPLIFICATION 4
6 CONNECTIONS 5
7 CABLE LENGTHS 5
8 SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS 6
9 WARRANTY 6
10 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 7

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MARTIN AUDIO

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1 INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing a Martin Audio EM Series system. The EM
Series is a range of powerful yet compact loudspeakers designed to suit
a variety of permanent installation applications. The trapezoid shape of
the enclosures allows them to be used singly or arrayed in multiples.
Specific uses include distributed foreground sound, theme bars,
nightclubs and audio-visual events.

2 UNPACKING

Each Martin Audio loudspeaker is built to the highest standard and
thoroughly inspected before it leaves the factory. After unpacking the
system, examine it carefully for any signs of transit damage and inform
your dealer if any such damage is found. It is suggested that you retain
the original packaging so that the system can be repacked at a future
date if necessary.

Please note that Martin Audio and its distributors cannot accept any
responsibility for damage to any returned product through the use of
non-approved packaging.

3 OVERVIEW

The EM Series products covered in this guide include the EM26, EM56,
EM76 and EM186 full-range systems and the EM201 and EM251 sub-bass
systems. Please note that the EM15 and EM150 are covered in a separate
User’s Guide. The EM26, EM56 and EM76 are 2-way systems with internal
crossover networks. The EM186 is a bi-amped 3-way system and the
EM201 and EM251 are dedicated sub-bass systems.

For optimum performance, it is recommended that EM Series loudspeakers
are used with EMX System Controllers – the EMX1A for the EM26/56/76
and the EMX2A for the EM186. The controllers can be switched between
full-range and sub-bass operation and contain limiter circuitry activated by
sense lines for loudspeaker protection. Please refer to the appropriate
controller user guide for detailed information on connections and correct
limiter settings for a particular EM Series set-up.

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2

This equipment conforms to the requirements of the
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, amended by 92/31/EEC
and 93/68/EEC and the requirements of the Low
Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC, amended by 93/68/EEC.

Standards Applied EMC Emission EN55103-1:1996

Immunity EN55103-2:1996

Electrical Safety EN60065:1993

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3.1 EM26

The EM26 is a miniature high performance loudspeaker suited to a variety
of applications from sports bars to high level foreground systems. It is a
passive two-way system featuring an 8" (200mm) bass driver and a 1"
(25mm) ferrofluid cooled HF driver on a 70 x 50 horn.

3.2 EM56

The EM56 is an ultra-compact passive two-way system with a high output
capability for its small size. Featuring a 10" (250mm) bass driver and 1"
(25mm) compression driver on a 70 x 40 degree horn, it is particularly
useful in distributed sound and audio-visual appplications.

3.3 EM76

The EM76 is a powerful stand-alone system combining dynamic full­frequency performance with exceptional smoothness. Designed to meet
the install requirement for a 12" (305mm) bass driver plus 1" (25mm)
compression driver combination, the EM76 is a passive 2-way system that
is ideal for most applications.

3.4 EM186

The EM186 is an innovative three-way system featuring a powerful 15"
(385mm) low frequency driver. Midrange is produced by a unique 6.5"
(160mm) mid horn developed to overcome the power and distortion
limitations of traditionally used large format compression drivers and high
frequencies are produced by a 1" (25mm) compression driver. Mid and HF
dispersion patterns are 65 x 40 degrees and the mid/high section is
rotatable to enable vertical or horizontal installation. The EM186 is
designed for bi-amplification at its 650Hz low/mid crossover point.

3.5 EM201 and EM251

Where an EM Series enclosure requires additional low frequency
enhancement, use of either the EM201 or EM251 will extend the power
bandwidth of the system to below 35Hz. The EM201 houses a single 18"
(450mm) driver whilst the EM251 utilises twin 15" (385mm) drivers in an
optimally tuned compact reflex enclosure.

NO

TE:

Passive systems such as the EM26, EM56 and EM76 may be used without
a system controller provided recommended amplifier power is not exceeded
and care is taken to avoid amplifier clipping. Use of an optional EMX1A
controller with its system specific low frequency EQ and built in limiters will
result in improved bass response and system protection.

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4 SAFETY FIRST

It is important that loudspeaker systems are used in a safe manner. Please
take some time to review the following points concerning safe use of EM
Series loudspeakers.

Professional loudspeakers are capable of producing extremely high sound
levels and should be used with care. Hearing loss is cumulative and can
result from levels above 90dB if people are exposed for a long period.
Never stand close to loudspeakers driven at high level.

4.1 Rigging and Suspension

WARNING: Suspending the system should only be done by qualified
personnel following safe rigging practices. Secure fixings to the
building structure are vital. Seek help from architects, structural
engineers or other specialists if in any doubt.

The EM26, EM56 and EM76 are provided with rear panel fixings for wall
brackets. The EM26, EM56, EM76 and EM186 are also fitted with
threaded inserts to allow the suspension of a single enclosure.

Never suspend one enclosure from another to form an array or cluster
using these fittings.

The common practice of using commercially available eye bolts for
suspension should only be undertaken with great caution. Eye bolts are
strongest along the thread axis. Angling the enclosures will result in an
angle pull and it is important to use eye bolts that are safe in these
circumstances. Only forged shoulder eye bolts should be considered and it
is important that the thread length is at least 30mm. Aflat washer should
be inserted between the eyebolt and the enclosure. Formed eye bolts i.e.

those which are formed from a steel rod bent into an eye should be
avoided.

5 AMPLIFICATION

EM Series loudspeakers are designed to be used with professional power
amplifiers capable of producing the following power outputs into 4 ohms:

EM26 300-400W
EM56 300-400W
EM76 400-550W
EM186 400-550W
EM201 550-700W
EM251 550-700W

Care should be taken to avoid amplifier clipping. It is important to
understand that a low power amplifier driven into clipping is more likely to
damage a loudspeaker than a higher power amplifier used within its ratings.
This is because music signals have a high peak-to-average "crest" factor.

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When an amplifier is severely overdriven, its output waveform is clipped (its
peaks are squared off) – reducing the crest factor. In extreme cases, the
waveform can approach that of a square wave. An amplifier is normally
capable of producing far more power under these conditions than its
undistorted rated power output.
The use of very high power amplifiers with outputs greater than those
recommended is discouraged.

Care should be taken to avoid switch-on surges, which can result in
momentary power peaks in excess of specified ratings. When powering up
a sound system it is important to switch on the amplifiers after the mixer
and control electronics have stabilised. When powering down the system,
reverse the sequence and switch off the amplifiers first.

6 CONNECTIONS

Each connector panel has a Neutrik Speakon NL4 connector wired as
follows:

NL4 Pin

EM26/56/76/201/251 EM186

1- Input -ve Low -ve
1+ Input +ve Low +ve
2- Link -ve Mid/High -ve
2+ Link +ve Mid/High +ve

7 CABLE LENGTHS

When connecting loudspeaker systems to an amplifier, it is recommended
that the return resistance of the cable used is less than one tenth of the
nominal impedance of the system or systems in parallel. The table below
gives an indication of the maximum permissible cable runs for various
conductor cross-sectional areas.

Conductor CSA

Maximum Cable Run

4 ohms 8 ohms 16 ohms

1.0mm

2

11m 22m 44m

1.5mm

2

17m 34m 68m

2.0mm

2

22m 44m 88m

2.5mm

2

29m 58m 116m

4.0mm

2

44m 88m 176m

6.0mm

2

66m 132m 264m

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8 SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS

The EM26, EM56, EM76 and EM186 may be used to cover the full-frequency
range – either distributed singly or arrayed in multiples. The EMX1A
controller provides appropriate limiting and low frequency equalisation for
full-frequency operation of the EM26, EM56 and EM76. The EM186 requires
an EMX2A controller.

Where additional low frequency output is required, an EM201 or EM251
sub-bass system driven from a separate amplifier fed from the sub-bass
output of the controller can be added. In this case the controller should be
switched from full-range to sub-bass operation by means of the recessed
switch on the front panel. The sound balance of the complete system can
be set up by using a screwdriver to adjust the trim controls accessible
through the controller front panel. Please refer to the EMX1A or EMX2A
User’s Guide for further information.

9 WARRANTY

Martin Audio EM Series products are warranted against manufacturing
defects in materials or craftsmanship over a period of 5 years from the date
of original purchase. During the warranty period Martin Audio will, at it's
discretion, either repair or replace products which prove to be defective
provided that
the product is returned in its original packaging, shipping prepaid, to an
authorised Martin Audio service agent or distributor.

Martin Audio Ltd. cannot be held responsible for defects caused by
unauthorised modifications, improper use, negligence, exposure to inclement
weather conditions, act of God or accident, or any use of this product that is
not in accordance with the instructions provided by Martin Audio.
Martin Audio is not liable for consequential damages.

This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied.
This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.

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10 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

EM26

TYPE Ultra compact, two-way passive
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 70Hz-18kHz ±3dB
RATED POWER 125W AES, 500W peak
SENSITIVITY 94dB
MAXIMUM SPL 114dB continuous, 120dB peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 200-300W (into 4 ohms)
DISPERSION 70 degs horizontal x 50 degs vertical
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 8 ohms
BASS 200mm (8")
HIGH FREQUENCY 25mm (1") driver, ferrofluid cooled
CROSSOVER 3kHz passive
ENCLOSURE 12 litres, vented
CONNECTOR 1 Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
FITTINGS 4 x M6 inserts for Omnimount 75

6 x M8 inserts

DIMENSIONS (W) 278mm x (H) 391mm x (D) 264mm

(W) 10.9ins x (H) 15.4ins x (D) 10.4ins
WEIGHT 10kg (22lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 590mm x (H) 500mm x (D) 300mm
(Packed in pairs) (W) 23.2ins x (H) 19.7ins x (D) 11.8ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 22kg (48.5lbs)
(Packed in pairs)

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EM56

TYPE Compact, two-way passive trapezoid
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 75Hz-18kHz ±3dB
RATED POWER 150W AES, 600W peak
SENSITIVITY 97dB
MAXIMUM SPL 117dB continuous, 123dB peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 300-400W (into 4 ohms)
DISPERSION (HxV) 70 degs horizontal x 40 degs vertical
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 8 ohms
BASS 250mm (10")
HIGH FREQUENCY 25mm (1") driver, ferrofluid cooled
CROSSOVER 2kHz passive
ENCLOSURE 22 litres, vented
CONNECTOR 1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
FITTINGS 4 x M8 inserts for Omnimount 100

10 x M8 inserts, 1 x pole mounting socket

DIMENSIONS (W) 335mm x (H) 487mm x (D) 325mm

(W) 13.2ins x (H) 19.2ins x (D) 12.8ins
WEIGHT 14.5kg (32lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 400mm x (H) 540mm x (D) 380mm

(W) 15.7ins x (H) 21.3ins x (D) 15ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 16kg (35.3lbs)

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EM76

TYPE Compact, two-way passive trapezoid
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 60Hz-18kHz ±3dB
RATED POWER 200W AES, 800W peak
SENSITIVITY 98dB
MAXIMUM SPL 120dB continuous, 126dB peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 400-550W (into 4 ohms)
DISPERSION 70 degs vertical x 40 degs horizontal
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 8 ohms
BASS 300mm (12")
HIGH FREQUENCY 25mm (1") exit compression driver
CROSSOVER 1.5kHz passive
ENCLOSURE 40 litres, vented
CONNECTOR 1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
FITTINGS 4 x M8 inserts for Omnimount 100

10 x M8 inserts, 1 x pole mounting socket

DIMENSIONS (W) 365mm x (H) 554mm x (D) 364mm

(W) 14.4ins x (H) 21.8ins x (D) 14.3ins
WEIGHT 22kg (48lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 440mm x (H) 610mm x (D) 420mm

(W) 17.3ins x (H) 24ins x (D) 16.5ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 23.5kg (51.8lbs)

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EM186

TYPE Compact, three-way trapezoid
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 55Hz-18kHz ±3dB
RATED POWER LF: 350W AES, 1400W peak

MF/HF: 150W AES, 600W peak
SENSITIVITY LF: 100dB MF/HF: 104dB
MAXIMUM SPL 124dB continuous, 130dB peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 400-550W (into 4 ohms)
DISPERSION 65 degs horizontal x 40 degs vertical
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE LF: 8 ohms MF/HF: 16 ohms
BASS/MID 380mm (15")/165mm (6.5")
HIGH FREQUENCY 25mm (1") exit compression driver
CROSSOVER 650Hz active 3.3kHz passive
ENCLOSURE 80 litres, vented
CONNECTOR 1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
FITTINGS 12 x M8 inserts
DIMENSIONS (W) 442mm x (H) 827mm x (D) 430mm

(W) 17.4ins x (H) 32.5ins x (D) 16.9ins
WEIGHT 36kg (79lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 500mm x (H) 920mm x (D) 480mm

(W) 19.7ins x (H) 36.2ins x (D) 18.9ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 38.5kg (84.9lbs)

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EM201

TYPE Compact, sub-bass system
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 40Hz-120Hz ±3db
RATED POWER 400W AES, 1600W peak
SENSITIVITY 97dB
MAXIMUM SPL 122dB continuous, 128dB peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 550-700W (into 4 ohms)
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 8 ohms
BASS 460mm (18")
CROSSOVER 120Hz active (via EMX1A/EMX2A)
ENCLOSURE 145 litres, vented
CONNECTOR 1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
DIMENSIONS (W) 520mm x (H) 805mm x (D) 494mm

(W) 20.5ins x (H) 31.7ins x (D) 19.4ins
WEIGHT 37.5kg (83lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 550mm x (H) 860mm x (D) 520mm

(W) 21.7ins x (H) 33.9ins x (D) 20.9ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 43kg (94.8lbs)

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EM251

TYPE Compact, dual-driver sub-bass system
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 38Hz-120Hz ±3db
RATED POWER 800W AES, 3200W peak
SENSITIVITY 99dB
MAXIMUM SPL 126dB continuous, 132dB peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 550-800W (into 4 ohms)
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 4 ohms
BASS 2 x 380mm (15")
CROSSOVER 120Hz active (via EMX1A/EMX2A)
ENCLOSURE 200 litres, vented
CONNECTOR 1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
DIMENSIONS (W) 572mm x (H) 827mm x (D) 585mm

(W) 22.5ins x (H) 32.5ins x (D) 23ins
WEIGHT 58.5kg (129lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 600mm x (H) 870mm x (D) 620mm

(W) 23.6ins x (H) 34.3ins x (D) 24.4ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 65kg (143.3lbs)

Due to our policy of continuous improvement all specifications are subject
to change without notice.

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EM Series

EM26/EM56/EM76/EM186/EM201/EM251

Century Point, Halifax Road, Cressex Business Park, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP12 3SL, England.

Telephone: [phone] Facsimile: [phone]

Web: www.martin-audio.com E-mail: [e-mail]

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The Martin Experience

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EM Series

EM26/EM56/EM76/EM186/EM201/EM251

User’s Guide

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