Martin audio F8+, F10+, F12+, F15+, F215+ user manual

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The Martin Experience

Blackline

F8+, F10+, F12+, F15+, F215+, H3+, H3H+,

H3T

, S12+, S15+, S18+, S218

includes M3+controller configuration notes

User’s Guide

1 Introduction 2 Unpacking 3 Blackline+ Series overview

3.1 2-way passive full-range systems

3.2 2-way dual-lf, full-range system

3.3 3-way horn-loaded, full range systems

3.4 Sub-bass systems

3.5 Grille removal

4 Safety first

4.1 Pole or stand mounting

4.2 Stacking

4.3 Rigging and suspension

5 Amplification 6 Connections 7 Cable lengths 8 Recommended controllers

8.1 M3+ 2 input, 4 output analogue system controller

8.2 DX1 2 input, 6 output digital loudspeaker management system

8.3 DX2 4 input, 8 output digital loudspeaker management system

8.4 Engineer Installed system digital management processor

9 System configurations

9.1 Passive systems

9.2 Bi-amplified systems

9.3 Tri-amplified systems

10 M3+ Configuration

10.1 Front panel With Sub mode

10.2 Choosing a power amplifier

10.3 M3

10.4 Combo top card

10.5 M3

10.6 M3

10.7 M3

• Pending. Please contact info@martin-audio.com

internal jumper configuration

F215+ top card*

H3A+ top card*

218+ top card*

for further information.

1 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a Martin Audio Blackline+ Series system. The Blackline+ Series is a range of portable loudspeaker enclosures designed for a variety of portable sound reinforcement and club applications.

Blackline systems, the H3

Because the F8

products covered in this user’s guide include the F8+, F10+, F12+, F15+ and F215+ full-range

horn-loaded system and the S12+, S15+, S18+ and S218+ sub-bass enclosures.

, F10+, F12+ and F15

are passive systems embodying correct acoustic design principles,

they can be used without a controller provided their AES and peak power ratings are not exceeded and care is taken to avoid amplifier clipping.

For maximum performance, however, we recommend that Blackline

Audio M3

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controllers.

Series systems are used with Martin

2 Unpacking

Each Martin Audio Blackline+ Series 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 Blackline+ Series overview

The Blackline+ Series is made up of…

2-way full-range systems:

(8”+1”) passive

F10

(10”+1”) passive

F12

(12”+1”) passive

F15

(15”+1.4”) passive

F215

(2x15”+1.4”) passive

3-way all-horn full-range systems

(vertically formatted 15”+10”+1”) bi-amplified

H3T

(vertically formatted 15”+10”+1”) user selectable bi-amplified or tri-amplified

H3H

(horizontally formatted 15”+10”+1”) bi-amplified

Direct radiating sub-bass systems

S12

(single 12”, ported) user-selectable 120Hz low-pass filter

S15

(single 15”, ported) user-selectable 120Hz low-pass filter

S18

(single 18”, ported) user-selectable 120Hz low-pass filter

S218

(2 x 18”, ported) direct-coupled

3.1 2-way passive full-range systems

The Blackline F8

is a versatile, two-way passive system designed for applications where high output is required from an ultra-compact enclosure. It features a long-excursion, 8” (200mm) low frequency driver and a 1” (25mm) HF compression driver mounted on a constant directivity 90° x 50° horn.

The horn is user rotatable to allow the F8

’s multi-angle enclosure to be used in either its vertical or

horizontal orientation, depending on the application.

The F8 recommends an M3

may be used with or without a system controller. For demanding applications, Martin Audio

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller configured to perform EQ and limiter

functions.

The M3 sub-bass cabinets – e.g. F8

F10

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to configure systems for additional

+ S12+, S15+, S18+ or S218+ combinations.

The Blackline F10

is a versatile, two-way passive system, designed to provide exceptional sound reinforcement and stage monitoring from a very compact enclosure. It features a powerful 10” (250mm) low frequency driver and a 1” (25mm) HF compression driver mounted on a constant directivity 90° x 50° horn.

Depending on the application, the HF horn can be rotated to allow the multi-angle enclosure to be used in either its vertical or horizontal orientation.

A demodulating ring fitted to the LF driver reduces distortion and improves the performance at the upper end of the LF driver’s range at high levels. Additionally, the directivity of the LF driver has been matched to the HF horn by a combination of optimisation of the water-resistant LF cone profile and improved crossover design.

The F10

may be used with or without a system controller. For demanding applications, Martin Audio

recommends an M3+, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller configured to perform EQ and limiter functions.

The M3 sub-bass cabinets – e.g. F10

F12

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to configure systems for additional

+ S12+, S15+, S18+ or S218+ combinations.

The Blackline F12

is a high power, compact two-way system with a new, vented-chassis, 12” (300mm) LF driver and a new 1” (25mm) exit compression driver mounted on a rotatable 80° x 50° constant directivity HF horn.

The LF driver has a tough, water resistant cone and features a high BL motor with a flat-wire copper coil and an aluminium demodulating ring. This reduces intermodulation distortion and improves midrange performance when driven hard. Increased excursion is available by virtue of a triple roll surround and deep motor structure.

The directivity of the LF driver has been matched to the HF horn in the crossover region by improved crossover design and cone profile optimisation, also the new HF compression driver utilises an ultralightweight Kapton diaphragm for extended high frequency response.

The F12 recommends an M3

may be used with or without a system controller. For demanding applications, Martin Audio

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller configured to perform EQ and limiter

functions.

The M3 sub-bass cabinets – e.g. F12

F15

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to configure systems for additional

+ S15+, S18+ or S218+ combinations.

The high power Blackline F15+ is a high performance, wide-bandwidth system in a compact and efficient package. Extended frequency response is provided by a new 15” (380mm) LF driver and a new 1.4” (35mm) exit compression driver mounted on a rotatable 80° x 50° constant directivity HF horn.

The new LF driver features a tough, water resistant cone and a lightweight, high BL, neodymium motor system with inside/outside coil windings for improved heat transfer. An aluminium demodulating ring reduces distortion and improves midrange clarity at high levels and increased excursion is available via a triple roll surround and deep motor structure.

The new HF driver utilises a titanium diaphragm with controlled break-up modes for improved sonic performance at high frequencies and the crossover design and LF cone profile have been optimised to match the directivity of the HF horn and LF section through the crossover region.

The F15 recommends an M3 functions.

The M3 sub-bass cabinets – e.g. F15

3.2 2-way dual-lf, full-range system F215

may be used with or without a system controller. For demanding applications, Martin Audio

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to configure systems for additional

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller configured to perform EQ and limiter

+ S18+ or S218+ combinations.

The Blackline F215

is a two-way passive, trapezoidal enclosure with dual 15” (380mm)/3” (75mm) voice coil low frequency drivers and a 1.4” (35mm) exit titanium diaphragm compression driver, mounted on a proprietary, rotatable, 80° x 50° constant directivity horn.

Below 250Hz, both LF drivers operate together to produce low frequencies, whilst above 250Hz, only the upper LF driver is used to reproduce the midrange up to the crossover point. This technique avoids the uneven response which would occur if both drivers were allowed to operate together over the mid-band.

Each of the two new LF drivers features a tough, water resistant cone and a lightweight, high BL, neodymium motor system with inside/outside coil windings for improved heat transfer. An aluminium demodulating ring improves the midrange performance at high levels and increased excursion is available via a triple roll surround and deep motor structure.

The F215+ may be used with or without a system controller. For demanding applications, Martin Audio recommends an M3

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller configured to perform EQ and limiter

functions.

The M3 sub-bass cabinets – e.g. F215

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to configure systems for additional

+ S218+ combinations.

3.3 3-way horn-loaded, full range systems

and H3T+

The Blackline H3 a single, wide-bandwidth package. They differ only in drive configuration. The H3

H3T

offers user selectable bi-amplified or tri-amplified modes.

and H3T+ are very high performance, vertically formatted, all-horn, three-way systems in

is bi-amplified whilst the

New drivers have been developed for improved performance in all bands. The Hybrid™ low frequency section comprises a horn-loaded 15” (380mm)/4” (100mm) voice coil driver that is reflex loaded to extend the LF output to below the natural cut-off point of the horn.

The new LF driver features a water resistant cone and triple roll surround for increased excursion.

The H3

/H3T+ mid horn has a unique ‘phase-ball’ loading device which maintains the constant directivity characteristics of the horn at the upper end of its range. It is driven by a new 10” (250mm) midrange driver with an aluminium demodulating ring for improved high-mid clarity and reduced distortion when driven hard.

The 70° x 40° H3

/H3T+ HF section features a neodymium 1” (25mm) exit compression driver with a Kapton diaphragm for high sensitivity and extended HF performance. The internal mid/high passive crossover allows this three-way system to be driven in a bi-amp configuration.

The H3

is bi-amplified and must be used with a system controller. Martin Audio M3+, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controllers may be configured to provide the recommended 2-way crossover and limiter functions.

Martin Audio DX1, DX2 or Engineer - or series connected M3 configure H3

The H3T

or H3T+ systems for additional sub-bass cabinets – e.g. H3+ + S218+ combinations.

can be driven like an H3+ when in bi-amplified mode. In tri-amplified mode the H3T+ must be used

system controllers - may also be used to

with a Martin Audio DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controllers to provide the recommended 3-way crossover and limiter functions.

H3H

The Blackline H3H package. The H3H

is a very high performance, all-horn, three-way system in a single, wide-bandwidth

offers all the attributes of the standard H3+ but is horizontally formatted making it

suitable for venues with restricted ceilings height.

The H3H

Martin Audio DX1, DX2 or Engineer - or series connected M3 configure H3H

systems for additional sub-bass cabinets – e.g. H3H+ with S218+.

system controllers - may also be used to

3.4 Sub-bass systems

S12

The Blackline S12 and F10

full-range loudspeakers in situations where extended low frequency output and increased system

is an extremely compact sub-bass system. It has been designed for use with the F8+

headroom are required.

The S12 S12

has an integral, user-selectable 120Hz passive crossover. When switched to Passive mode, the

may be parallel-connected to F8+ or F10+ systems to provide low frequency extension without the

need for an additional amplifier.

An M3

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to provide an active crossover with

enhanced control facilities.

The S12

is provided with a top hat fitting that can be used to pole mount an F8+ or F10+ above the

enclosure.

S15+

The compact Blackline S15

sub-bass system has been designed to be used with Blackline F12+ or F15+

full-range systems to extend and increase the total low frequency output power.

The S15

provides good bass punch from a new, long-excursion, 15” (380mm)/4” (100mm) voice coil driver

with a water resistant cone and triple roll surround.

The S15 S15

has an integral, user-selectable 120Hz passive crossover. When switched to Passive mode, the

may be parallel-connected to F8+, F10+ or F12+ systems to provide low frequency extension without

the need for an additional amplifier.

An M3

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to provide an active crossover with

enhanced control facilities.

The S15

is provided with a top hat fitting that can be used to pole mount an F8+, F10+, or F12+ above the

enclosure

S18

The compact Blackline S18

sub-bass system has been designed to be used with Blackline F12+ and F15+

full-range systems to extend and increase the total low frequency output power.

The S18

provides good bass punch with extended sub-bass output from a new, long-excursion, 18”

(460mm)/4” (100mm) voice coil driver with a water resistant cone and triple roll surround.

The S18+ has an integral, user-selectable 120Hz passive crossover. When switched to Passive mode, the

S18

may be parallel-connected to F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ systems to provide low frequency extension

without the need for an additional amplifier.

An M3 enhanced control facilities.

The S18 the enclosure.

S218

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller may also be used to provide an active crossover with

is provided with a top hat fitting that can be used to pole mount an F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ above

The powerful Blackline S218

F12

and F15+ systems to extend and increase the total low frequency output power. It can also be used as

the low frequency section of a bi-amplified/tri-amplified H3

The S218

provides good bass punch with extended sub-bass output from two new, long-excursion, 18”

sub-bass system has been designed to be used with large scale Blackline

/H3T+ system.

(460mm)/4” (100mm) voice coil drivers with water resistant cones and triple roll surrounds.

The S218 over with a Martin Audio M3

is designed to be used as part of a high power active system. It must be electronically crossed

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controller.

3.5 Grille removal

To remove the grille, first remove any grille retaining screws. The grille can then be removed by inserting a flat bladed screwdriver under one of the notches at the top and bottom of the grille and gently levering the grille out of the side channels.

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 Blackline 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 Pole or stand mounting

Blackline+ full-range loudspeakers incorporate pole mounting (“top hat”) sockets so that they may be pole or stand mounted.

When using poles or stands, the following precautions are advised:

Ensure that the stand will support the weight of the speaker by checking the stand manufacturers

rating. (See the Section 10 – Technical Specifications - for individual Blackline+ weights and dimensions)

Make sure that the stand is placed on a level surface and that its legs are fully extended

Do not place more than one speaker on each stand

Run cables so that they do not present a trip hazard which could pull the speaker over

When used outdoors in the wind, it may be necessary to add some weight to the base of the stand

When using a pole mount with a sub-bass system, observe similar precautions.

4.2 Stacking

Ensure that the floor or stage is level and solid

Do not stack speakers too high outdoors where winds could topple the stack

Be aware that speakers producing very high power levels can move or creep. To avoid this, place

friction material between the floor and speaker and between each speaker.

4.3 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.

Blackline

Series enclosures are designed for portable applications, but can be suspended singly by means of the threaded inserts provided. Enclosures are fitted internally with steel corner reinforcement brackets, where necessary, to ensure that each cabinet is strong enough to be hung from its top.

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. Only forged shoulder eye bolts should be considered and it is important that the thread length is at least 30mm

Formed eye bolts i.e. those which are formed from a steel rod bent into an eye are not

recommended

A flat washer should be inserted between the eyebolt and the enclosure

Eye bolts are strongest along the thread axis. Angling the enclosure will result in an angle pull and

it is important to use eye bolts that are safe in these circumstances.

5 Amplification

Choosing a power amplifier

Martin Audio loudspeakers are capable of recreating musical dynamics accurately and with incredible

impact if powered correctly. Martin Audio loudspeaker power ratings are quoted for AES power - a longterm average power rating, and Peak power – a short-term burst capability.

Moving coil loudspeakers can be run up to their AES power rating continuously and up to the higher Peak

power rating for transient musical peaks.

1) Choose amplifiers capable of delivering the loudspeaker’s Peak

power rating – see below

2) For good spectral balance, set your amplifiers to the same voltage gain throughout the system. A common industry standard voltage gain is 32dB (x40). Crown have a 26dB (x20) standard. Always check

the amplifier gain settings – these are usually on the rear panel. Avoid using sensitivity settings as these

give different gains depending on the amplifier’s power specification.

3) Use the M3

’s carefully timed limiters to avoid exceeding the AES long-term power rating.

Important: See section 10 for limiter setting information

This policy avoids clipping transient peaks. Clipping not only sounds unacceptable but can seriously stress your system by dumping large amounts of distortion into the high frequency drivers.

Blackline Minimum Recommended

F8+ 600W into 8Ω MA1.3s MA1.6s/ MA4.8Q*

F10+/ F12+ 1.2KW into 8Ω MA1.6s/ MA4.8Q* MA2.8s/ MA6.8Q*

F15+ 1.6KW into 8Ω MA2.8s MA4.2s

F215+ 3.2KW into 4Ω MA2.8s MA4.2s

H3+/ H3H MF-HF: 1.2KW into 8Ω MA1.6s MA2.8s

model Peak power rating Suggested power amplifier

LF: 3KW into 8Ω MA2.8s MA4.2s

H3T+ LF: 3KW into 8Ω MA2.8s MA4.2s MF: 1.2KW into 8Ω MA1.6s MA2.8s HF: 400W into 8Ω MA1.3s MA1.6s

S15+ 1.6KW into 8Ω MA4.2s MA9.6K

S18+ 3KW into 8Ω MA12K MA18K

S218+ 6KW into 4Ω MA12K MA18K

(*MA4.8Q & MA6.8Q are 4ch installation amplifiers featuring remote monitoring and power on/off facilities)

6 Connections

Each connector panel has two Neutrik Speakon connectors wired in parallel with each other. The second connector allows use of a short link lead to power another, parallel Blackline are wired as follows:

loudspeaker. The connectors

F8+, F10+, F12+, F15+, F215+, S12+, S15+, S18+ NL4 connection

H3+, H3H+ NL4 bi-amplified connection

H3T+ NL8 tri-amplified connection

S218+ NL4 connection

Note: +1 is connected to +2 and -1 is connected to -2 inside the

S218

to allow 4-core cable users to double

the copper area, and, therefore, reduce power losses.

7 Cable lengths

When connecting Blackline 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.

systems to an amplifier, it is recommended that the return resistance of the

8 Recommended controllers

Because the F8 acoustic design principles, they can be used without a controller as long as their AES and peak power ratings are not exceeded and care is taken to avoid amplifier clipping.

For maximum performance, however, we recommend that Blackline+ Series systems are used with

Martin Audio M3

Controllers must, of course, be used with the bi-amplified H3+, and H3H+ and the bi-amplified/tri-

amplified H3T power subwoofer does not include a passive low-pass network.

8.1 M3

The Martin Audio M3 bi-amplified Blackline

+ S12+, F10+ + S15+, F12+ + S18+ or F15+ + S218+).

The M3

system controller may also be used as a simple equaliser and limiter for fully passive full-range

Blackline

Please refer to the M3

8.2 DX1 2 input, 6 output digital loudspeaker management system

The DX1 is a powerful 2in-6out DSP based audio processing unit for live applications and fixed installations.

The unit is configurable in 5 basic modes (2x2 way, 2x3 way, 4 way, 5 way and 6 way crossover). Each input has adjustable gain and delay. Each output consists of a high and low pass filter, 5 bands of parametric equalisaton, limiter, delay (adjustable in 2.6 µs steps), gain and polarity controls.

DX1 system controllers are supplied pre-loaded with a wide range of Martin Audio presets. Blackline+ presets are available as binary files from www.martin-audio.com

Please refer to the DX1 user’s guide for further information.

8.3 DX2 4 input, 8 output digital loudspeaker management system

The new 4in-8out DX2 embraces the very latest advances in technology to meet the ever increasing demand and expectations placed on professional audio systems. Based on a completely new processing platform, running at 96kHz, the DX2 sets a new standard in terms of performance, flexibility and ease of use.

The DX2 is a comprehensive digital loudspeaker management system, capable of being easily configured to meet the most demanding applications in both fixed installation and live touring environments.

DX2 system controllers are supplied pre-loaded for a variety of Martin Audio live sound products. Blackline+

, F10+, F12+, F15+, F215+, S12+, S15+ and S18+ are passive systems embodying correct

, DX1, DX2 or Engineer system controllers.

. Controllers must also be used when adding the S218+ to a system as this very high

2 input, 4 output analogue system controller

applications.

2in-4out system controller provides optimised crossover, EQ and limiter functions for

configurations (H3 or H3H), or for main-plus-subwoofer configurations (for instance,

configuration notes later in this user guide for further information.

for loading via a pc.

presets are available as binary files from www.martin-audio.com for loading via a pc.

Please refer to the DX2 user’s guide for further information.

8.4 Engineer Installed system digital management processor

The Martin Audio Engineer 4in/8out and 8in/8out digital management processors provide comprehensive control and management of installed loudspeaker systems.

In addition to crossover, EQ and limiter functions, Engineer processors offer a flexible event scheduler, automatic programme level and tonality control to compensate for variations in programme sources and a unique psycho-acoustical BassCreator algorithm.

BassCreator is capable of extending the perceived range of small loudspeakers 1 to 1½ octaves below the resonance frequency of a loudspeaker without overloading the loudspeaker and without creating sub-sonic sound leakage.

Engineer processors are supplied pre-loaded with a limited range of Martin Audio presets. Blackline+ presets will be made available shortly from www.martin-audio.com

for loading via a pc.

A note on the illustrations

Please note that for simplicity only the left channel is shown and each line in the diagram represents a pair of wires.

The illustrations show systems configured using the cost-effective Martin Audio M3+ controller. Larger, zoned systems may require the more comprehensive facilities offered by Martin Audio digital controllers like the DX1, DX2 or Engineer. See above for details.

The M3

controller’s internal crossover card must be properly configured for the system to be used. Please

see the M3+ configuration notes later in this user guide for further information.

9 System configurations

There are many different system combinations possible with the Blackline configurations illustrations are shown below.

Main-to-subwoofer ratios

The number of full-range or mid/high systems required to match the efficiency of one sub-bass system is shown where applicable.

9.1 Passive systems

Series. Some typical

F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ passive system set-up (F12+ shown)

The F215+ may also be used like this – but with an M3+ F215+ card in place of the Combo card

The M3

front panel and internal Combo card must be set for Full-range operation for this passive,

full-range configuration.

See M3+ configuration notes later.

F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ plus S12+, S15+ or S18+ passive system set-up (F12+ & F15+ shown)

The M3

front panel and internal Combo card must be set for Full-range operation and the

subwoofer rear switch set to Passive for this configuration to work correctly.

See M3+ configuration notes later.

9.2 Bi-amplified systems

(Typical main-to-sub ratio 1:1)

Typical F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ plus S12+, S15+ or S18+ active system set-up (F12+ & F15+ shown)

The M3

front panel and internal Combo card must be set for With Sub operation and the

subwoofer rear switch set to Active for this configuration to work correctly.

See M3+ configuration notes later.

(Typical main-to-sub ratio 1:1)

Typical F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ plus S218+ active system set-up (F12+ & S218+ shown)

(Typical main-to-sub ratio 2:1)

The F215+ may also be used like this – but with an M3+ F215+ card in place of the Combo card

The M3

front panel and internal Combo card must be set for With Sub operation for this active

configuration.

See M3+ configuration notes later.

H3+, H3H+ or H3T+ bi-amplified system set-up (H3+ shown)

The M3

front panel must be set for Full-range operation for this active configuration.

See M3+ configuration notes later.

9.3 Tri-amplified systems

The first (lower) M3

crossover and the second (upper) M3 amplified H3

H3+, H3H+ or H3T+ bi-amplified system set-up with S218 (H3+ shown)

front panel must be set to With Sub to provide an H3

/H3H+/H3T+ crossover.

front panel must be set to Full-range operation for a bi-

/H3H+/H3T+-to-S218+

See M3+ configuration notes later.

An alternative approach for these more complex designs is to use the Martin Audio DX1 digital 2 input, 4

output controllers which come fully loaded with a many Martin Audio presets including settings suitable for Blackline+ combinations.

Further operational choices include a 4 input, 8 output DX2 digital controller or a choice of 4 input, 8 output or 8 input, 8 output digital management processors called Engineer. The Engineer offers a flexible event

scheduler, automatic programme level and tonality control to compensate for variations in programme sources and a unique psycho-acoustical BassCreator algorithm.

See Section 8 (earlier in this document) for further information.

10 M3+ Configuration

10.1 Front panel With Sub mode

To keep things simple, select With Sub mode when using subwoofers, Full Range mode when running

, F10+, F12+ or F15+ loudspeakers without subwoofers and set the Combo Card jumpers to the relevant

quick-start illustrations shown later in these notes.

10.2 Choosing a power amplifier

Martin Audio loudspeakers are capable of recreating musical dynamics accurately and with incredible

impact if powered correctly. Martin Audio loudspeaker power ratings are quoted for AES power - a longterm average power rating, and Peak power – a short-term burst capability.

Moving coil loudspeakers can be run up to their AES power rating continuously and up to the higher Peak

power rating for transient musical peaks.

Choose an amplifier capable of delivering the loudspeaker’s Peak power rating Use the M3+’s carefully timed limiters to avoid exceeding the AES long-term power rating.

This policy avoids clipping transient peaks. Clipping not only sounds unacceptable but can seriously stress your system by dumping large amounts of distortion into the high frequency drivers.

10.3 M3+ internal jumper configuration

The M3+ controller contains internal jumpers to cater for a variety of Blackline+ loudspeakers – including loudspeaker and subwoofer combinations.

Please note that these jumpers should be set by experienced

electronics technicians only.

Mono Subwoofer operation

Move the motherboard jumper J17 to position B for mono subwoofer operation.

Limiter settings Important: Set the motherboard output limiter jumpers Ch1-J11, Ch2-J12, Ch3-J13, Ch4-J14 to suit the

recommended limiter thresholds (vs power amplifier gain) shown below:

Output channel limiter jumpers

Output limiter thresholds vs power amplifier gain

(see next page if you know the amp’s sensitivity but you do not know its gain)

Estimated power amplifier gain vs output specification & sensitivity

10.4 Combo top card

For use with Blackline F8+, F10+, F12+, F15+, S12+, S15+, S18+ and S218

Jumper settings

Important: Combo Card jumpers must be set to suit the Blackline

Note again. These jumpers should be set by experienced electronics technicians only.

Remove the M3+ lid and locate the jumpers on the Combo Card. Use J1, J2, J5 & J6 to configure F8+, F10+,

F12

& F15+ and J3, J4, J7 and J8 to configure the M3+ for S12+, S15+, S18+ & S218+ as follows:

loudspeaker system to be used.

Quick-start illustrations

Set the M3+ Combo Card to suit the main or main/sub combination as shown in the following illustrations:

F8+ only (Front panel in Full Range mode)

with S 12+, S15+, or S18+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

F8+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

Flown

F10+ only (Front panel in Full Range mode)

F10+ with S 12+, S15+, or S18+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

F10+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

Flown F10+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

F12+ only (Front panel in Full Range mode)

F12+ with S 12+, S15+, or S18+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

F12+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

Flown F12+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

F15+ only (Front panel in Full Range mode)

F15+ with S 12+, S15+, or S18+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

F15+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

Flown F15+ with S218+ (Front panel in With Sub mode)

Combo Card jumper summary and notes

Combo Card “Full Range” jumper configurations

S218+ Flat

This setting provides a tradition main-to-S218+ crossover when F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ loudspeakers are placed on (or pole-mounted just above) the subwoofers.

S218+ Overlap

This setting optimizes the main-to-S218+ crossover when F8+, F10+, F12+ or F15+ loudspeakers are flown in an open space – well away from room surfaces (e.g. from a truss).

Top card high pass filter

The Combo Card high pass filter (HPF) jumpers - J1 & J5 - should be placed in the Out position when the front panel With Sub is selected as the LF cutoff for the F8

, F10+, F12+ or F15+ loudspeaker is set by the motherboard main-to-sub crossover function in this mode.

10.5 M3+ F215+ top card*

For use with Blackline the F215+ full range or with S218+

10.6 M3+ H3A+ top card*

For use with Blackline the H3/H3H

bi-amplified

10.7 M3+ 218+ top card*

For use with a second M3+ controller where a Blackline bi-amplified H3/H3H+ is to be used with an S218

* Pending. Please contact info@martin-audio.com for further information.

Martin audio F8+, F10+, F12+, F15+, F215+ user manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual