Neumann KH 310 A Users Manual

KH  A
KH  D

A S 

O M

   ·  .  ·   · 
  () /   - ·  - · @. · ..

Contents

Important safety instructions ...............................................2

The KH 310 studio monitor ..................................................4

Package contents ..........................................................4

Product overview ..........................................................5

Installing and connecting the KH 310.........................................7

Preparing the loudspeakers ............................................7

Preparing the room....................................................8

Positioning the loudspeakers ...........................................8

Connecting audio signals..............................................11

Connecting/disconnecting the KH 310 to/from the mains power supply......14

Configuring and using the KH 310...........................................14

Switching the KH 310 on/o ...........................................14

Adjusting the frequency response ......................................14

Adjusting the acoustical level..........................................15

Compensating for video delay (lip sync) ................................16

Compensating for listening distance dierences (time-of-flight) ............16

Activating ground lift .................................................17

Adjusting the brightness of the Neumann logo ...........................18

Cleaning and maintaining the KH 310 .......................................18

Troubleshooting ..........................................................19

Specifications ............................................................19

Accessories ..............................................................21

Manufacturer Declarations .................................................22

Appendix

System Block Diagram .................................................I

Pin assignment of the XLR socket........................................I

Acoustical Measurements ..............................................I

Installation angles ....................................................V

Delay lookup table ...................................................VI

EN

KH 310 | 1

Important safety instructions

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions. Always include these instructions when passing the product on to
third parties.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Only clean the product when it is not connected to the mains power supply. Clean only with
a dry cloth.

7. Always ensure a free air flow around the cooling fins on the rear of the product. Do not
block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruc­tions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other ap­paratus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a
third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of
the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, conveni­ence receptacles, and the point where it exits from the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufactu­rer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving
the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the appara­tus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, when the apparatus has been
exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

15. To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect the power supply
cord plug from the AC receptacle.

16. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain
or moisture.

17. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled
with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the equipment.

18. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily accessible.

EN

Installation

2 | KH 310

• Ensure that the room in which you use this product is wired in accordance with the local

electrical code and checked by a qualified inspector.

• Only use the product indoors.

• Do not install the product in hot, humid, or excessively dusty locations, in direct sunlight or

in locations where it is exposed to externally generated vibrations.

• Do not place burning objects (e.g. candles) on top of or near the product.

• If condensation has formed on the product, e.g. because it was moved from a cold environ-

ment to a warm one, allow the product to acclimatize to room temperature before using it.

• Do not overload wall outlets and extension cables as this may result in fire and electric

shock.

Danger due to

high sound

pressure levels

WARNING
Danger of hearing damage due to sudden high sound pressure levels!

Audio signals that are present at switch-on of the product or that can be present during
operation, can create sudden, very high sound pressure levels which can damage your hea­ring.

X

Always lower the output level of the audio source before connecting it to the loudspea­ker, starting it (pressing “play”) or switching to a dierent source (analog/digital) via
the SIGNAL SELECT rotary switch G.

This loudspeaker can be used for commercial purposes. Commercial use is subject to the rules
and regulations of the trade association responsible. Neumann, as the manufacturer, is there­fore obliged to expressly point out possible health risks arising from use. This loudspeaker is
capable of producing sound pressure levels exceeding 85 dB(A) SPL. This is the sound pres­sure corresponding to the maximum permissible level which is by law (in some countries)
allowed to aect your hearing for the duration of a working day (8 hours). It is used as a basis
according to the specifications of industrial medicine.

Higher sound pressure levels and/or longer durations can damage your hearing. At higher
sound pressure levels, the duration must be shortened in order to prevent hearing damage.
The following are signs that you have been subjected to excessive sound pressure levels for
too long a time:

• You can hear ringing or whistling sounds in your ears.

• You have the impression (even for a short time only) that you can no longer hear high fre-

quencies (temporary threshold shift).

Magnetic fields

Hazard warnings

on the rear of

the product

Intended use

WARNING
Interference due to magnetic fields!

This product generates a permanent magnetic field (> 1.5 mT) that can interfere with car­diac pacemakers and implanted defibrillators (ICDs).

X

Always maintain a distance of at least 10 cm (4") between the loudspeaker and the car­diac pacemaker or implanted defibrillator.

The label shown on the right is attached to the rear of the
product.

The symbols on this label have the following meaning:
Presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product’s enclo-

sure that may be of sucient magnitude to constitute a risk of fire or
electric shock.

Never open the product or remove the grilles fitted to the product as
there is a risk of electric shock. There are no user serviceable parts
inside. Refer servicing to your Neumann service partner.

Read and follow the safety and operating instructions contained in the
operating manual.

Intended use of the product includes:

• having read this operating manual, especially the chapter “Important safety instructions”,

• using the product within the operating conditions and limitations described in this opera-

ting manual.

EN

“Improper use” means using the product other than as described in this operating manual, or
under operating conditions which dier from those described herein.

KH 310 | 3

The KH 310 studio monitor

Thank you for purchasing a Neumann studio monitor. The KH 310 features a Mathematically
Modeled Dispersion™ Waveguide (MMD™), flexible acoustical controls, various input options
and an extensive range of mounting hardware. This allows the loudspeaker to be used in
diverse acoustical conditions, with any source equipment and in a wide variety of physical
locations. The KH 310 represents the latest in acoustic and electronic simulation and measure­ment technologies to ensure the most accurate sound reproduction possible.

Depending on the size, Neumann’s three-way loudspeaker systems are designed for use as
near-field monitors, as front loudspeakers in mid-sized multi-channel systems, or as rear
loudspeakers in larger multi-channel systems. They can be used in project, music, broadcast
centers, OB vans, and post production studios for tracking, mixing, and mastering.

Package contents

1 KH 310 A “left” or KH 310 A “right”
or
1 KH 310 D “left” or KH 310 D “right”

3 Mains cables (European, UK and US versions)
4 Self-adhesive feet
1 Operating manual
1 “Getting Started Quickly” supplement

EN

4 | KH 310

Note that imperial dimensions are approximate.

The current operating manual as well as the supplement “Getting Started Quickly” can also be
downloaded from the “Downloads” area on the product page at www.neumann.com.

Product overview

The KH 310 comes in two variants named “left” and “right” (see figure). It is also possi­ble to use a “left” in the “right” position, and vice versa. Both variants can also be used
as a center loudspeaker. Information about positioning your KH 310 can be found from
page 8.

1

2

3

1 Neumann logo

4

• lights up white:
loudspeaker is switched on and ready for operation

• flashes red:
loudspeaker’s protection system is active
output level is reduced

or

A digital signal is selected via the SIGNAL SELECT
rotary switch G but there is no valid digital signal
connected

• lights up red:
electronic‘s temperature is too high
output level is reduced by 20 dB

You can adjust the brightness of the Neumann logo. For more information, refer to
page18.

4

3

2 Treble driver
3 Midrange driver
4 Bass driver

2

1

KH 310 | 5

EN

B

A

D

E

C

Back panel

KH 310 A

B

A
0
9
8

A

7

6
5

B

C

D

E

Back panel

KH 310 D

5 ANALOG INPUT socket (XLR)
6 GROUND switch

(Connects/disconnects ground)

7 DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS switch

(Dims the Neumann logo)

8 INPUT GAIN control
9 OUTPUT LEVEL switch

DELAY

x 25.6 ms

SIGNAL SELECT

AES 3

INPUT

x 1.6 ms

x 0.1 ms

DELAYED
DIGITAL B
DIGITAL B
ANALOG
ANALOG*
DIGITAL A+B
DIGITAL A+B
DIGITAL A
DIGITAL A

Max. input
level 1.2 V pk-pk,
unbalanced
Sleeve: Shield
Tip: Signal

-2.5

-5.0

-7.5

114
108
100

94

100

60
30

OFF

F

G

H

ACOUSTICAL

00

+1.0

CONTROLS

-1.5

0

-3.0

-1.0

-4.5

-2.0

LOW-MIDBASS

TREBLE

OUTPUT LEVEL

[dB SPL at 1 m
for 0 dBu / -18 dB FS]

-5

INPUT GAIN

0

-15

GROUND

CONNECT

LIFT

DISPLAY

BRIGHTNESS [%]

I

J

OUTPUT

AES 3

AES 3
INPUT

Max. input level 7 V pk-pk,
transformer balanced,
PIN 1 Shield, PIN 2 Signal +, PIN 3 Signal -

Georg Neumann GmbH, Leipziger Str. 112, 10117 Berlin, Germany

ANALOG
INPUT

Max. input level 24 dBu, (*18 dBu for analog delayed),
electronically balanced,
Pin 1 Audio GND, Pin 2 Signal +, Pin 3 Signal -

B

A

[dB]

0
9
8
7

6

5

0 ACOUSTICAL CONTROLS switches
A Threaded inserts for Neumann mounting hard-

ware

B Handles with mounting holes
C Cooling fins
D On/o switch I/0
E IEC mains socket

EN

6 | KH 310

5 ANALOG INPUT socket (XLR)
6 GROUND switch

(Connects/disconnects ground)

7 DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS switch

(Dims the Neumann logo)

8 INPUT GAIN control
9 OUTPUT LEVEL switch

0 ACOUSTICAL CONTROLS switches
A Threaded inserts for Neumann mounting hard-

ware

B Handles with mounting holes
C Cooling fins
D On/o switch I/0
E IEC mains socket

F DELAY rotary switches
G SIGNAL SELECT rotary switch
H AES3 INPUT socket (BNC)
I AES3 OUTPUT socket (BNC)
J AES3 INPUT socket (XLR)

Installing and connecting the KH 310

CAUTION
Danger of injury and material damage due to tipping/dropping of the product!

If improperly mounted, the product and/or the mounting hardware (e.g. rack) can tip over
or drop down.

X

Always have the product mounted by a qualified specialist according to local, national
and international regulations and standards.

X

Use the mounting systems recommended by Neumann and always provide sucient
additional protection against tipping or dropping!

CAUTION
Damage to the product due to overheating!

If air cannot circulate properly around the cooling fins on the rear of the product, the
amplifier(s) may overheat leading to premature activation of the thermal protection system
which limits the maximum output level of the loudspeaker. In rare cases, damage to the
product may also occur.

X

Never cover the cooling fins.

X

When installing the product into tight spaces such as wall recesses, maintain an air gap
of at least 5 cm (2") around the rear of the product and provide sucient air circulation.
If necessary, use forced-air cooling (e.g. in OB vans).

It is not possible to remove the electronics panel and locate it remotely.

For information on installation, please refer to the supplied “Getting Started Quickly”
supplement. This will help you set up the loudspeakers in a way that will give you the
best acoustic performance from the system.

For further information on setting up loudspeakers, please refer to the “Questions &
Answers” section on the product page at www.neumann.com.

For more information on building systems using Neumann loudspeaker products, please
refer to the “Product Selection Guide” at www.neumann.com

Preparing the loudspeakers

CAUTION
Risk of staining surfaces!

Some surfaces treated with varnish, polish or synthetics may suer from stains when they
come into contact with other synthetics. Despite a thorough testing of the synthetics used
by us, we cannot rule out the possibility of staining.

X

Do not place the KH 310 on delicate surfaces.

CAUTION
Danger of damaging the midrange and bass drivers!

If the KH 310 is placed face down on a soft surface or if the front panel of the KH 310 is
pressed against your body when you carry it, the drivers can be damaged.

X

Never place the KH 310 on a soft surface with the front panel facing downwards.

X

Always carry the KH 310 so that the front panel is facing upwards.

EN

You can use the handles B on the rear panel to lift the loudspeaker.

KH 310 | 7

Distances

To place the loudspeaker on a flat surface:

X

Attach the supplied self-adhesive feet to the bottom of the cabinet.
This reduces the risk of scratching the surface and acoustically isolates the loudspeaker

from the surface.

Preparing the room

X

Arrange all acoustically relevant surfaces and objects symmetrically on either side of the
listening axis of the room (left/right).

X

Minimize the sound that is reflected back to the listening position by using angled surfaces
and/or acoustical treatment.

This product has been optimized for use in recording studios. In order not to aect the
quality of reproduction, make sure that the product is used in an EMC environment.

Positioning the loudspeakers

X

Carry out the following steps very accurately, since the more accurate the physical arrange­ment of the loudspeakers in the room, the more accurate the reproduction will be at the lis­tening position.

X

Observe the recommended distances between the loudspeakers and your listening position
(imperial dimensions are approximate):

• Minimum: 0.75 m (2' 6")

• Recommended: 1.0–2.5 m (3'–8')

• Maximum: 6.0 m (18')

X

Avoid positioning the loudspeaker at a distance “d
behind the loudspeaker.

” of 0.8 to 2 m (2' 6" to 6') from the wall

wall

EN

Positioning the

KH 310

When positioning bass managed loudspeakers:

X

Avoid a distance “d
Similarly, avoid these distances from solid side walls or a solid ceiling. Respecting these

” of 0.8 to 1 m (2' 6" to 3') from a solid wall behind the loudspeaker.

wall

positioning limitations reduces the chances of dips and peaks in the low frequency response
(comb filtering) caused by strong reflections.

The KH 310 comes in two variants named “left” and “right”.

X

Position the two variants at the same height and so that the bass drivers are on the inside.

If you are building a multichannel system:

X

Use either a “left” or “right” variant for the center loudspeaker. Line up the acoustical axis
along the center line of the loudspeaker array (see below).

8 | KH 310

-30°

Front Left Front Center Front Right

0°

+30°-30°

+30°

Arranging the

loudspeakers

X

Copy the diagram “Installation angles” that can be found at the end of this operating manual.

X

Place the diagram at the listening position or center of the listening area.

X

Using a tape measure, place the loudspeakers at the same distance from the center of the dia­gram “Installation angles”. To ensure good imaging, do this at an accuracy of at least 1cm

1

/

(

").

2

X

Make sure that the distances are equal:

Front Left

Length I

Length I

Length I

Listening

position

Front Center Front Right

Length I

Length I

Surround
Left

Surround

Right

EN

KH 310 | 9

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

x = 9.1 cm
y = 17.0 cm

If the loudspeakers cannot be placed at the same distance from the listening position:

X

Compensate for distance dierences > 1 cm (

1

/

") by delaying closer loudspeakers by 30 s/

2

cm (76 s/inch).

If you are using the KH 310 D:

X

Use the DELAY rotary switches F to compensate for distance dierences (see
page16).

The DELAY rotary switches F allow for corrections with a resolution of 3.44 cm
(13/8"), any small remaining time-of-flight adjustment should be made by moving
the loudspeaker cabinet.

X

Check the location of the loudspeaker cabinet. This depends on the application:

• 2.0 systems (stereo): ±30°, plus optional subwoofer(s)

• 5.1 systems:
ITU-R BS.775-1: 0°, ±30°, ±110° (±10°), plus optional subwoofer(s)
(center, front left/right, surround left/right)
ANSI/SMPTE 202M: 0°, ±22.5°, arrays to the surround left and to the surround right,
plus optional subwoofer(s)

• 7.1 systems: 0°, ±30°, ±90°, ±150°, plus optional subwoofer(s)
(center, front left/right, side left/right, back left/right)

The acoustical axis of the KH 310 starts from the midpoint of the mid range and tweeter dri­vers.

X

Always point the acoustical axis, in the horizontal and vertical planes, towards the listening
position.

EN

The acoustical axis is a line perpendicular to the loudspeaker’s front panel along which
the microphone was placed when tuning the loudspeaker’s crossover during design.
Pointing the acoustical axis, in the horizontal and vertical planes, towards the listening
position or center of the monitoring area will give the best measured and perceived
sound quality.

X

Position the loudspeaker so that there is a direct line of sight from the listening position to
the bass, midrange and tweeter drivers.

10 | KH 310

Unbalanced RCA to balanced XLR connections

Connecting

XLRcables

Connecting audio signals

X

Always use good quality cables with the correct impedance and appropriate termination to
avoid signal drop outs and to achieve the maximum cable lengths shown below:

Signal (connector) Impedance Cable length Connection method

Analog (RCA) low up to 10 m

(30')

Analog (XLR) low up to 100 m

(300')

AES3 (BNC) 75 Ω up to 100 m

(300')

AES3 (XLR) 110 Ω up to 100 m

(300')

S/P-DIF (RCA) 75 Ω up to 10 m

(30')

Connecting analog signals to the KH 310 A and the KH 310 D

X

Only connect analog signals to the KH 310 A.

X

Connect the left and right output of your analog audio source to the XLR input sockets of
the respective loudspeaker.

via an adapter (RCA-XLR)
to the ANALOG INPUT socket
(XLR) 5 (see below)

directly to the ANALOG INPUT
socket (XLR) 5 (see below)

directly to the AES3 INPUT
socket (BNC)H (see page 12)

directly to the AES3 INPUT
socket (XLR)J (see page 12)

via an adapter (RCA-BNC) to the
AES3 INPUT socket (BNC)H (see
page 12) or via an adapter
(RCA-XLR) to the AES3 INPUT
socket (XLR)J (see page 12)

unbalanc

Connecting

ed cables

XLR

Signal A

Analog Source

X

Use an RCA-XLR adapter (not supplied) to connect unbalanced cables (e.g. RCA cables).

X

Use the following wiring if you want to make your own RCA-XLR adapter:

Signal B

XLR

Wiring Pin Signal

1 Audio ground

2 Signal +

3 Signal −

If there is a humming sound from the loudspeaker, activate ground lift to disconnect
pin 1 of the ANALOG INPUT socket (XLR)5 from the loudspeaker’s chassis ground.

EN

KH 310 | 11

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

Connecting

AES3 cables

Connecting digital signals to the KH 310 D

X

Connect the digital AES3 or S/P-DIF-output signal of your audio source to the AES3
INPUT socket

The KH 310 D loudspeaker only supports non-encoded AES3 and S/P-DIF signals.
Encoded signals such as MP3, DTS or Dolby Digital are not supported.

X

Make an appropriate setting (“DIGITAL A” or “DIGITAL B”) on the SIGNAL SELECT
rotary switch G. The setting depends on the signal channel order and the loudspeaker
position.

To connect an additional loudspeaker:

X

Use the AES3 OUTPUT socket I. See figure below.

X

Make an appropriate setting (“DIGITAL A” or “DIGITAL B”) on the SIGNAL SELECT
rotary switch G.

Set back panel switch to “DIGITAL A” Set back panel switch to “DIGITAL B”

H or J of the respective KH 310 D. See figure below.

Only one cable is needed for uncompressed AES3 and S/P-DIF digital signals
(single-wire mode). They contain two audio channels: “subframe A” and “sub­frame B”. Usually, the audio channels are:

Subframe A Subframe B

Left Right
Center LFE
Surround left Surround right
Back left Back right

A clock input is not required because loudspeakers are not audio sources and the
converters are clocked to a very stable internally generated clock source.

EN

XLR
or
BNC
In

BNC
Out

RCA, BNC or XLR

Subframe A - left signal

Subframe B - right signal

Digital Source:

AES 3 or S/P-DIF

BNC
In

12 | KH 310

Connecting multiple KH 310 D loudspeakers together

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

X

Use the AES3 INPUT H and OUTPUT socket (BNC) I. T-pieces are not required (see

figure below).

X

Make an appropriate setting (“DIGITAL A” or “DIGITAL B”) on the SIGNAL SELECT
rotary switch G.

End of the line external termination is not required as the

AES3 INPUT socket (BNC) H

already has an internal 75 Ω termination.

Set back panel switch to “DIGITAL A” Set back panel switch to “DIGITAL B”

XLR
or
BNC
In

BNC
Out

RCA, BNC or XLR

BNC InBNC

Out

Subframe A - left signal

Subframe B - right signal

Digital Source:

AES 3 or S/P-DIF

BNC InBNC

Out

BNC
In

Setting the SIGNAL SELECT rotary switch G

X

Select one of the following settings, depending on your needs:

Setting Meaning

ANALOG
DIGITAL A

XLR input socket 5
Digital subframe A, AES3 INPUT socket (BNC) H or

AES3 INPUT socket (XLR)J

DIGITAL B

Digital subframe B, AES3 INPUT socket (BNC) H or
AES3 INPUT socket (XLR)J

DIGITAL A+B Digital subframe A summed with digital subframe B

and a 6 dB attenuation, AES3 INPUT socket (BNC) H or
AES3 INPUT socket (XLR)J

Each of these can be selected with and without delay added, so it is very quick to bypass
the delay.

The digital output is a buered copy of the digital input signal which can be used to feed
the digital signal onto other loudspeaker or products. There is no digital output from the
AES3 OUTPUT socket (BNC) I when an analog signal is connected to the ANALOG INPUT
socket 5, therefore the KH 310 D cannot be used as an analog-to-digital converter.

EN

KH 310 | 13

Connecting/disconnecting the KH 310 to/from the mains power supply

To connect the KH 310 to the mains power supply:

X

Make sure that the on/o switchD is set to “0”.

X

Connect the IEC connector of the supplied mains cable to the mains socket E.

D

E

Power Source

X

Connect the mains plug of the mains cable to a suitable wall socket.

To disconnect the KH 310 from the mains power supply:

X

Set the on/o switch D to “0”.

X

Pull the mains plug out of the wall socket.

EN

Configuring and using the KH 310

Switching the KH 310 on/o

X

Set the on/o switch to:

• “I” to switch on the loudspeaker. The Neumann logo lights up, provided that it has not
been switched o by means of the DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS switch 7 (see page 18).

• “0” to switch o the loudspeaker. The Neumann logo goes o.

There is an approximate five second delay before sound can be heard from the loud­speaker in order to avoid noises (pops) from preceding equipment switched on at the
same time. Conversely, switching o the loudspeaker immediately mutes the audio.

Adjusting the frequency response

14 | KH 310

When all its acoustical controls are set to 0 dB, the KH 310 loudspeaker is designed to have
a flat frequency response in anechoic conditions. When the loudspeaker is installed in your
monitoring environment, the response changes.

The same loudspeaker installed in dierent positions in the same room may require dierent
acoustical control settings. In a symmetrical installation, left/right pairs (front or back) will
probably have the same acoustical control settings.

X

Before using your loudspeaker system for the first time, calibrate the frequency response of
the loudspeakers in the room in order to obtain the desired response.

X

Repeat the above step if you change the physical conditions in your studio.

X

At your listening position, determine the frequency response of each loudspeaker.

X

Use the ACOUSTICAL CONTROLS switches 0 to adjust the frequency response.

Recommended frequency responses measured at the listening position:

• Studio applications: flat

• Film applications: X-curve shape (see ANSI/SMPTE 202M)

• Home applications: subjective evaluation

ACOUSTICAL CONTROLS

Function Possible settings

switches 0

Bass Compensates for acoustical

0, −2.5, −5, −7.5 dB
loading in the low frequency
range due to nearby large solid
boundaries (e.g. walls).

Low-Mid Compensates for acoustical

0, −1.5, −3, −4.5 dB
loading in the low-mid frequency
range due to nearby large solid
objects (e.g. mixing consoles,
desks or flat screens).

Treble Compensates for insucient or

+1, 0, −1, −2 dB
excessive high-frequency
damping in the room.

The following settings can be used as a starting point for further adjustment:

Loudspeaker position ACOUSTICAL CONTROLS

switches 0
Bass Low-Mid Treble

In a corner −7.5 dB −1.5 dB –
Next to an acoustically solid wall (e.g. brick, concrete) −5 dB – –
Next to an acoustically soft wall (e.g. gypsum) −2.5 dB – –
Free standing in an untreated room −2.5 dB – −1 dB
Free standing in a well-treated room – – –
In a small room with strong side wall reflections −5 dB 0 dB –
Near a small desktop or small reflecting surface* – −1.5 dB –
Near a large desktop or large reflecting surface* – −3 dB –

*

Use these settings in addition to one of the top settings

Adjusting the acoustical level

X

On your KH 310 loudspeakers, set the OUTPUT LEVEL switch 9 to 94 dB SPL and the INPUT
GAIN control 8 to −15 dB.

X

Play a broadband pink noise test signal that is set to −18 dBFS (Europe) or −20 dBFS (USA)
on the mixing console‘s output level meters.

X

Measure the sound pressure level at the listening position using a sound level meter with
the following settings:

• “C”-weighted

• slow integration time

KH 310 | 15

EN

X

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

Set the OUTPUT LEVEL switch 9 and the INPUT GAIN control 8 of your loudspeakers so
that the desired acoustic level is obtained.

Recommended sound pressure levels:

Application Sound pressure level

Film 85 dB(C)
Broadcast 79 to 83 dB(C)
Music No defined reference levels

If the Neumann logo flashes red, the loudspeaker‘s protection system has been activated.
Toavoid this and achieve the desired output level, use larger loudspeakers or add a bass
managed subwoofer to the system.

Examples of sound pressure levels as a function of the input and output level of the KH 310:

Input signal

[dBu]

INPUT GAIN control 8

0

(0.775 V)

0

(0.775 V)

+4

(1.23 V)

0 −15 −4 −15

−20

(77.5 mV)

[dB]

OUTPUT LEVEL switch 9

100 100 94 114

[dB SPL]

Sound pressure level

100 85 94 79

[dB SPL] at 1 m

Compensating for video delay (lip sync)

Signal processing in LCD, Plasma and LED screens, digital projectors with LCD or DLP
chips, and video processors used in broadcast centers delays the video signal.

The delay is disturbing when audio leads video by more than 20 ms or lags by more than
40 ms.

To compensate for the video signal delay, the audio signal can be delayed by up to

409.5ms, which is 10.2 frames at 40 ms/frame or 12.3 frames at 33 ms/frame. The same
value should be used for all loudspeakers in the system.

Please consider the information on latency on page 17.

EN

DELAY

SIGNAL SELECT

16 | KH 310

x 25.6 ms

x 1.6 ms

x 0.1 ms

DELAYED

DIGITAL B
DIGITAL B
ANALOG
ANALOG*
DIGITAL A+B
DIGITAL A+B
DIGITAL A
DIGITAL A

Compensating for listening distance dierences (time­of-flight)

Loudspeakers placed at dierent distances suer from time-of-flight dierences which
aects imaging. The delay resolution is small enough (0.1 ms) that the delay can be used
for time-of-flight adjustment (3.44 cm or 1 3/8" steps).

To compensate for the time-of-flight delay, the audio signal of the KH 310 D can be
delayed by up to 409.5 ms, which is 140.87m (462'2"). Loudspeakers positioned closer
to the listening position should be delayed to be the same as the furthest loudspeaker
from the listening distance.

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

KH 310 D

Example
Loudspeaker A listening distance: 1.50 m
Loudspeaker B listening distance: 1.65 m

Time-of-flight dierence: 0.15 m
So loudspeaker A should be delayed by the time equivalent of 0.15 m which is 0.436 ms

(0.15 m / 3.44 cm x 0.1 ms). The nearest setting of the DELAY rotary switches F is 0.4
ms, so set the 0.1 ms switch to position 4.

Please consider the information on latency further down.

If a video delay compensation has already been made, add the time-of-flight dierence
(here: 0.4 ms) to the setting already made.

Example

Video delay compensation on loudspeaker A: 2 x 40 ms/frame
Desired time-of flight compensation for loudspeaker A: 0.4 ms

Time-of-flight compensation: 80.4 ms
This delay value can be made with these switch settings: 3 x 25.6 ms, 2 x 1.6 ms, 4 x 0.1 ms.

The latency of the analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters should be
taken into account when using the DELAY rotary switches F for time-of-flight com­pensation. For the digital-to-analog conversion (input signal via digital connector),
the latency is dependent on the sample rate (values can be seen in the Specifica­tions table on page 20). The analog-to-digital-to-analog conversion (input sig­nal via analog connector) is fixed at 0.54 ms.

For time-of-flight compensation delay, calculate the desired delay value then sub­tract the appropriate latency depending on the input signal and sample rate, and
then set the needed additional delay using the delay switches on the back panel.

Example:

Distance compensation for 1 m: 1 m / 344 m/s = 2,91 ms: 2.91ms
Digital input signal, sample rate: 48 kHz, latency: 0.85 ms

2.06 ms
Delay settings:

0 x 25.6 ms, 1 x 1.6 ms, 5 x 0.1 ms
(equals 2.1 ms, which is the nearest value)

For video delay compensation, converter latency can be ignored as it is insignifi­cant compared to long video signal delays.

To help with choosing a delay setting there is a set of lookup tables at the end of
this operating manual. Also Neumann has made a delay calculator which is availa­ble at www.neumann.com.

Activating ground lift

If there is humming or buzzing noise coming from the loudspeaker, first search for the cause of
the noise:

X

Disconnect all input and output signal cables from the loudspeaker.

If the noise goes away, it is probably coming from the audio source or source cabling.

KH 310 | 17

EN

It might be possible to eliminate the noise by disconnecting the ground from the input signals (activating ground
lift).

To activate ground lift:

X

Reconnect the signal cables and set the GROUND switch 6 to “LIFT”.
This internally disconnects pin 1 of the ANALOG INPUT socket (XLR)5 from the loudspeaker’s chassis ground (see
diagram “Pin assignment of the XLR socket” on page 11).

For safety reasons, the electronics chassis ground is always connected to the mains
power earth pin.

Adjusting the brightness of the Neumann logo

WARNING
Danger of hearing damage due to unexpected high sound pressure levels!

If the Neumann logo is switched o, it is not obvious whether the product is switched on or o. In this case,
unexpected high sound pressure levels can cause hearing damage.

X

Always set the audio sources connected to the loudspeaker to a low output level before they deliver an audio
signal.

X

If you switch o or dim the Neumann logo, mention this to everyone who works with this loudspeaker or the
connected audio sources.

To dim or switch o the Neumann logo in low light level environments or when the loudspeaker is placed behind an
acoustically transparent screen:

X

Set the DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS switch 7 to:

• “30 %”, “60 %” or “100 %” to adjust the Neumann logo to dierent brightness levels.

• “OFF” to switch o the Neumann logo.

When the loudspeaker’s protection system is active or invalid digital signals are connected to the KH 310 D,
the color of the Neumann logo changes from white to red. The brightness of this red limiter indication corres­ponds to the setting of the DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS switch 7 (“30 %”, “60%” or “100 %”). However, you cannot
completely switch o the limiter indication, as it appears with a brightness of 30 % even if the DISPLAY
BRIGHTNESS switch 7 is set to “OFF”.

EN

Cleaning and maintaining the KH 310

CAUTION
Damage to the product caused by liquids!

Liquids entering the product can cause a short-circuit in the electronics and damage or even destroy the product.

X

Keep all liquids away from the product!

X

Before cleaning, disconnect the product from the mains power supply.

X

Use a soft, dry, and lint-free cloth to clean the product. Do not use any solvents or cleaning agents.

X

Clean the cooling fins regularly. They should always be kept free from dust.

X

Never touch the driver diaphrams.

18 | KH 310

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Solution

The Neumann logo is o, no sound
is heard from the KH 310

The Neumann logo is o or not
clearly visible, but sound is heard
from the KH 310

The Neumann logo is flashing red
but there is no sound

There is hum or buzz coming from
the KH 310 when the audio cable is
connected.

For further information, please refer to the “Questions & Answers” section on the product page at www.neumann.com

The KH 310’s internal
main fuse has blown.

The Neumann logo is
switched o or dimmed.

A DIGITAL signal is
selected on the SIGNAL
SELECT rotary switch
G but there is no valid
audio signal connected to
the digital input.

Bad cabling or ground
loop in the installation.

Have the product checked by an autho­rized Neumann service partner.

Switch on the Neumann logo
and switch o the dimming
(see page 18) .

Connect a valid signal to the digital input,
check the cabling, or set the SIGNAL
SELECT rotary switch G to ANALOG.

Check all cabling to eliminate the cause
of the problem, change from unbalanced
to balanced cabling, or use the ground lift
switch (see page 16).

Specifications

Acoustics

Free field frequency response 34 Hz to 21 kHz ±3 dB
Pass band free field frequency response 36 Hz to 20 kHz ±2 dB
Self-generated noise (INPUT GAIN set to 0 dB,

OUTPUT LEVEL set to 100 dB SPL)
Total harmonic distortion < 0.5 % at 95 dB SPL at 1 m > 85 Hz

Max. SPL in full space / calc. in half space at 3 % THD
at 1 m, averaged between 100 Hz and 6 kHz

Bass capability:
Max. SPL in half space at 3 % THD at 1 m, averaged
between 50 Hz and 100 Hz

Max. short term SPL with IEC-weighted noise
(IEC 60268-5) at 1 m, in typical listening conditions

Max. short term SPL with music material at 2.3 m,
in typical listening conditions (pair)

Max. long term SPL with pink noise at 2.3 m,
in typical listening conditions (single/pair)

Electronics

Woofer Class AB amplifier,
continuous (peak) output power

Midrange Class AB amplifier,
continuous (peak) output power

Tweeter Class AB amplifier,
continuous (peak) output power

Controller design analog, active
Crossover frequencies; crossover slope
Acoustical controls Bass: 0, −2.5, −5, −7.5 dB

< 20 dB(A) SPL at 10 cm

110.3 dB SPL / 116.3 dB SPL

104.5 dB SPL

113 dB(C) SPL

100 dB(C) SPL (full range)
107 dB(C) SPL (with subwoofer)

93/99 dB(C) SPL (full range)
94/100 dB(C) SPL (with subwoofer)

150 W (210 W), THD and noise <0.1% with deactiva­ted limiter

70 W (90 W), THD and noise <0.1% with deactivated
limiter

70 W (90 W), THD and noise <0.1% with deactivated
limiter

650 Hz, 2.0 kHz; 24 dB/oct., 4

Low-mid: 0, −1.5, −3, −4.5 dB
Treble: +1, 0, −1, −2 dB

th

order

EN

KH 310 | 19

EN

Protection circuitry Excursion limiter: Low

Peak limiter: Low
Thermo limiter: Low, Mid, High
Overheat protection: Amplifiers

Infrasonic filter frequency; slope 15 Hz; 6 dB/oct.

Analog input

Input type XLR, electronically balanced
Input impedance, XLR balanced > 13 kW
Input gain control (sensitivity) 0 dBu to −15 dBu
Output level control 94, 100, 108, 114 dB SPL
CMRR > 56 dB, 100 Hz to 15 kHz

Maximum input level 24 dBu (ANALOG)

18 dBu (ANALOG DELAYED)

Digital input/output (KH 310 D only)

Signal format XLR, BNC AES3, S/P-DIF
Impedance XLR, balanced 110 Ω (input)
Impedance BNC, unbalanced 75 Ω (input and output)
Input switching Analog/Digital A/Digital B/Digital A+B
Digital converter: resolution, design 16 … 24-bit
Digital converter: sampling rates [kHz]

*

22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48, 64, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192
Digital sensitivity -18 dBFS = 100 dB SPL at 1 m
Dynamic range: A-D-A, D-A

THD+N: analog delayed, digital
Maximum delay: time / distance
Maximum delay: audio-video synchronization

(lip sync)
Minimum delay resolution: time / distance
Latency D-A (with delay = 0 ms)

**

> 116 dB(A), 123 dB(A)
< -104 dB, < -106 dB (typically)

409.5 ms / 140.87 m (462' 2")

10.2 at 40 ms/frame

12.3 at 33 ms/frame

0.1 ms / 3.44 cm (1 3/8")

1.84 ms at 22.05 kHz

1.70 ms at 24 kHz

1.28 ms at 32 kHz

0.93 ms at 44.1 kHz

0.86 ms at 48 kHz

0.64 ms at 64 kHz

0.47 ms at 88.2 kHz

0.43 ms at 96 kHz

0.24 ms at 176.4 kHz

0.22 ms at 192 kHz
Latency A-D-A (with delay = 0 ms)
DELAY setting acknowledgement
Digital error /Loudspeaker’s protection system is active

0.54 ms

Neumann logo “Red” 1 flash
Neumann logo “Red” continuous flashes

Product properties

Power consumption (idle) KH 310 A: 25 W

KH 310 D: 30 W

Power consumption (full output AC) 300 W

1

Dimensions (H x W x D)

253 x 383 x 292 mm (10" x 15

/

" x 11

8

1

Internal net volume/external volume 16.2 l/28.3 l
Weight KH 310 A: 13.0 kg (28 lbs 11 oz)

KH 310 D: 13.1 kg (28 lbs 14 oz)

*

These are the sample rates for which the delay setting value shown on the back panel is valid.

**

Depending on the sample rate, this value should be added to the delay setting on the back panel to give the total delay.

/

")

2

20 | KH 310

Drivers
bass, midrange, treble

Mounting points 2 x M8 thread on side panel, depth 25 mm (1"),

Cabinet surface finish, Color Painted wood and polyurethane,

Operating conditions

Ambient temperature +10°C to +40°C (+50°F to +104°F)
Relative humidity max. 90% (non-condensing)
Power supply 100 to 240 V~, 50/60 Hz

Transport/storage conditions

Ambient temperature −25°C to +70°C (−13°F to +158°F)
Relative humidity max. 90%

In compliance with

Europe

USA 47 CFR 15 subpart B
Canada CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

magnetically shielded
210 mm (8

Rear panel screws for attaching the LH 41 base plate
Mounting holes in the handles

Anthracite (RAL 7021) or other RAL color.
Rear panel: Aluminium, black anodized.

EMC EN 55103-1/-2,
Electromagnetic Environment: Class E3
Safety EN 60065

1

/

"), 75 mm (3"), 25mm (1")

4

Acoustical measurements, block diagram and pin assignment

Additional technical data such as acoustical measurements, a block diagram and the pin assignment of the XLR
socket can be found at the end of this operating manual.

Accessories

Product Description

BKH 310 Soft carry bag for one KH 310
FKH 310 Flight case for one KH 310
GKH 310 Metal grille
LH 25 Mounting bracket
LH 28 Tripod stand adapter
LH 29 TV spigot (lighting stand adapter)
LH 36 Tilting adapter
LH 37 Subwoofer adapter
LH 41 Base plate
LH 43 Surface mounting plate
LH 45 Wall bracket
LH 46 Adjustable ceiling drop adapter
LH 47 Mounting adapter plate
LH 48 Tripod adapter plate

EN

KH 310 | 21

Manufacturer Declarations

Guarantee

For the current terms and conditions of the product guarantee, please visit www.neumann.com.

In compliance with the following requirements

• WEEE (2012/19/EU)
Please dispose of the product at the end of its operational lifetime by taking it to your local
collection point or recycling center for such equipment.

CE Declaration of Conformity

• RoHS (2011/65/EU)

• Low Voltage Directive (2006/95/EC)

• EMC Directive (2004/108/EC)

The declarations are available on the product page at www.neumann.com.

Certified by

Audio, Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus - Safety Requirements CAN/CSA-C22.2 No.
60065:03 and UL 60065-2007

Trademarks

Neumann® is a registered trademark of Georg Neumann GmbH. The following are trademarks of
Georg Neumann GmbH:

• “Mathematically Modeled Dispersion” and “MMD”

Other company, product, or service names mentioned in this operating manual may be the
trademarks, service marks, or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

EN

FCC

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This class B digital apparatus complies with the Canadian ICES-003.
Changes or modifications made to this equipment not expressly approved by Neumann may

void the FCC authorization to operate this equipment.

22 | KH 310

System Block Diagram/System-Blockdiagramm/SynoptiqueSystème/
Diagrama de Bloques del Sistema

KH 310 D only

S/P-DIF can be received on the BNC
connectors with a suitable adapter

BNC: AES3 Output

BNC: AES3 Input

XLR: AES3 Input

XLR: Analog
Input

GND Lift

Receiver

24-bit
192 kHZ

Signal
Select

Analog
Digital A
Digital B
Digital A+B
(all available
with and
without delay)

25.6 ms

1.6 ms

Delay

ADC

0.1 ms

Gain

DAC

CoarseFine

0

-2.5

-5.0

-7.5

Bass Low Mid Treble

-1.5

-3.0

-4.5

0

+1
0

-1

-2

Display Dimmer
100%
60%
30%
0%

Production

Trimmers

Cross-

Over

(24 dB/

oct)

Limiters

Switched-mode

Power Supply

Power on

Mute

Power

Amplifiers

Acoustical Measurements/Akustische Messungen/Mesures acoustiques/Mediciones Acústicas

EN Below are acoustical measurements conducted in anechoic conditions at 1 m.

DE Die folgenden akustischen Messungen wurden unter reflexionsarmen Bedingungen bei 1 m Abstand durchgeführt.

Treble

Midrange

Bass

Pin assignment of the XLR socket/
Buchsenbelegung XLR/
Brochage de la prise XLR/

Asignación de la hembra XLR/

1 Audio ground/Audio-Erdung/

Masse audio/Toma de tierra
de audio

2 Signal +/Signal +/Signal +/

Señal +

3 Signal −/Signal −/Signal −/

Señal −

FR Vous trouverez ci après les courbes correspondant aux mesures acoustiques eectuées en chambre sourde, à une distance de 1 mètre du

moniteur.

ES Las siguientes mediciones acústicas se han realizado bajo condiciones de baja reflexión a una distancia de 1 m.

KH 310 | I

Free-Field Response | Freifeld-Frequenzgang | Réponse en
champ libre | Respuesta en frecuencia en campo libre

Group Delay | Gruppenlaufzeit | Temps de propagation de
groupe | Retardo de grupo

II | KH 310

Harmonic Distortion at 90 dB SPL | Klirrfaktor bei 90 dB SPL
Distorsion harmonique à 90 dB SPL | Distorsión armónica total
a 90 dB SPL

Harmonic Distortion at 95 dB SPL | Klirrfaktor bei 95 dB SPL
Distorsion harmonique à 95 dB SPL | Distorsión armónica total
a 95 dB SPL

KH 310 | III

Maximum SPL at 1 m (1 % and 3 %) | Maximaler SPL bei 1 m
(1 % und 3 %) | Niveau SPL maximal, à 1 m (1 % et 3 %) | SPL
máximo a 1 m (1 % y 3 %)

Acoustical Controls | Akustikregler | Eet des correcteurs de
compensation acoustiques | Regulador acústico

IV | KH 310

Cumulative Spectral Decay | Zerfalls spektrum |
Décroissance spectrale cumulée | Caída espectral acumulada

KH 310 | V

Horizontal Directivity Plot | Horizontales Abstrahlverhalten
Directivité horizontale | Directividad horizontal

-24,0--21,0 -21,0--18,0 -18,0--15,0 -15,0--12,0 -12,0--9,0 -9,0--6,0 -6,0--3,0 -3,0-0,0 0,0-3,0
90

60

30

Angle (°)

0

VI | KH 310

125

160

200

250

315

400

500

630

800

1000

1250

1600

Frequency (Hz)

2000

2500

3150

4000

5000

6300

8000

10000

12500

16000

-30

-60

-90

20000

Vertical Directivity Plot | Vertikales Abstrahlverhalten
Directivité verticale | Directividad vertical

-24,0--21,0 -21,0--18,0 -18,0--15,0 -15,0--12,0 -12,0--9,0 -9,0--6,0 -6,0--3,0 -3,0-0,0 0,0-3,0
90

60

30

Angle (°)

0

125

160

200

250

315

400

500

630

800

1000

1250

1600

Frequency (Hz)

2000

2500

3150

4000

5000

6300

8000

10000

12500

16000

-30

-60

-90

20000

KH 310 | VII

Installation angles/Aufstellwinkel/Anglesd�installation/Ángulos de colocación

6600°°

9900°°

110000°°

3300°°

00°°

22.5°22.5°

3300°°

6600°°

9900°°

110000°°

VIII | KH 310

111100°°

112200°°

115500°°

118800°°

111100°°

112200°°

115500°°

Digital Delay Lookup Table/Digital Delay Lookup Table/ Digital Delay Lookup Table/Digital Delay Lookup Table

Switch 1 (25.6 ms) Switch 2 (1.6 ms)

Position Time [ms] Distance [m] Distance [Imperial] Frames Time [ms] Distance [m] Distance [Imperial] Frames

[feet] [inches] 50 Hz 60 Hz [feet] [inches] 50 Hz 60 Hz

0 0.0 0.000 0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.000 0 0 0.0 0.0

1 25.6 8.806 28 11 0.6 0.8 1.6 0.550 1 10 0.0 0.0

2 51.2 17.613 57 9 1.3 1.5 3.2 1.101 3 7 0.1 0.1

3 76.8 26.419 86 8 1.9 2.3 4.8 1.651 5 5 0.1 0.1

4 102.4 35.226 115 7 2.6 3.1 6.4 2.202 7 3 0.2 0.2

5 128.0 44.032 144 6 3.2 3.8 8.0 2.752 9 0 0.2 0.2

6 153.6 52.838 173 4 3.8 4.6 9.6 3.302 10 10 0.2 0.3

7 179.2 61.645 202 3 4.5 5.4 11.2 3.853 12 8 0.3 0.3

8 204.8 70.451 231 2 5.1 6.1 12.8 4.403 14 5 0.3 0.4

9 230.4 79.258 260 0 5.8 6.9 14.4 4.954 16 3 0.4 0.4

10 256.0 88.064 288 11 6.4 7.7 16.0 5.504 18 1 0.4 0.5

11 281.6 96.870 317 10 7. 0 8.4 17. 6 6.054 19 10 0.4 0.5

12 307.2 105.677 346 9 7.7 9.2 19.2 6.605 21 8 0.5 0.6

13 332.8 114.483 375 7 8.3 10.0 20.8 7.155 23 6 0.5 0.6

14 358.4 123.290 404 6 9.0 10.8 22.4 7.706 25 3 0.6 0.7

15 384.0 132.096 433 5 9.6 11.5 24.0 8.256 27 1 0.6 0.7

KH 310 | IX

Digital Delay Lookup Table/Digital Delay Lookup Table/ Digital Delay Lookup Table/Digital Delay Lookup Table

Switch 3 (0.1 ms)

Position Time [ms] Distance [m] Distance [Imperial] Frames

[feet] [inches] 50 Hz 60 Hz

0 0.0 0.000 0 0 0.0 0.0

1 0.1 0.034 0 1 0.0 0.0

2 0.2 0.069 0 3 0.0 0.0

3 0.3 0.103 0 4 0.0 0.0

4 0.4 0.138 0 5 0.0 0.0

5 0.5 0.172 0 7 0.0 0.0

6 0.6 0.206 0 8 0.0 0.0

7 0.7 0.241 0 9 0.0 0.0

8 0.8 0.275 0 11 0.0 0.0

9 0.9 0.310 1 0 0.0 0.0

10 1.0 0.344 1 2 0.0 0.0

11 1.1 0.378 1 3 0.0 0.0

12 1.2 0.413 1 4 0.0 0.0

13 1.3 0.447 1 6 0.0 0.0

14 1.4 0.482 1 7 0.0 0.0

15 1.5 0.516 1 8 0.0 0.0

X | KH 310

/ · /