uses contemporary materials to provide optimised absorption of unwanted low-midrange energy
within the cabinet, while extending bass output signicantly with negligible harmonic distortion.
The two long-throw g-weave bass drivers employed in the twenty5 subwoofer are a bespoke
PMC design delivering an unparalleled transient response. The twenty5 sub cabinet has a small
footprint, making it more convenient and easier to place than typical cube-shaped designs.
Page 9
TM
Advanced Transmission Line
Tip
Tip
The source of PMC’s legendary natural and wholly
realistic sound is the Advanced Transmission Line
(ATLTM) bass-loading technology.
TM
is an ingenious design which uses energy
ATL
generated by the bass unit in a much more
intelligent and efcient way than speaker designs
based on ported or sealed boxes.
In ATLTM loudspeakers, the highly braced cabinet
is lined with a multitude of custom-designed
acoustic materials that absorb all but the very
lowest frequencies. These are guided to exit from
a vent on the front-panel, extending the low-
frequency response and creating the impression
of a far larger speaker with an extra, ultra-high
quality bass unit.
TM
improves more than just the bass response:
ATL
because the low end is clean and clear it doesn’t
mask the rest of the music. Vocals in particular,
are beautifully projected and ultra-vivid.
TM
loudspeakers offer another benet. The ATLTM
ATL
bass extension does not change with volume
level – so even when listening quietly the bass
sounds balanced and well dened.
This cross-sectional view of the twenty5.24
loudspeaker shows the ATL
arrangement and the unique Laminair
TM
cabinet
TM
vents
Page 10
Taking ATL
Tip
Tip
TM
to the next level
With the launch of the twenty5 series, loudspeaker audio performance has been taken to the
next level with the addition of the LaminairTM aerodynamic vent.
TM
The ATL
design involves air moving under pressure at high speeds, and PMC’s Head of Design,
Oliver Thomas was able to apply aerodynamic principles transferred from his previous industry,
Formula 1 to the ATLTM concept.
TM
The result is the unique Laminair
aerodynamic vent which creates an even smoother, laminar
airow at the exit from the transmission line.
This innovative solution
reduces turbulence and
drag at the ATLTM vent,
reducing resistance,
increasing efciency,
eliminating air noise, and
provides bass with supreme
timing and the ultimate
dynamic range.
‘Nothing else comes close to the clarity, timing, and dynamics.’
Page 11
System description
The twenty5 active subwoofer has a powerful
DSP engine, operating at a xed sample rate
of 96kHz.
The two balanced analogue inputs are
conditioned by an adjustable low-noise gain
stage prior to A-D conversion to optimise the
signal-to-noise ratio. The converter is a very
high quality delta-sigma device, producing
a 24-bit, 96kHz output. The left and right
channels are summed to drive the subwoofer
speakers, but passed on as separate signals
to the analogue outputs.
The AES3 digital input accepts sample rates
up to 192kHz, and is sample rate converted
to 96kHz automatically. Either channel, or a
sum of both, can be selected to drive the
subwoofer, and both are passed on to the
digital output.
The DSP engine provides the system volume
control, low-pass ltering, parametric
equalisation, and phase alignment for the
subwoofer, as well as high-pass ltering bass
management options for the analogue and
digital outputs. It also provides non-invasive
excursion limiting to protect the drivers.
The DSP system generates three sets of outputs.
In addition to the digital output, there are
two separate D-A converters. One converter
provides the analogue outputs, while the
other feeds a 400W Class-D power amplier
connected to the loudspeaker(s).
The analogue and digital outputs are always
available and can be formatted to provide
either full range or high-pass ltered signals,
which can be used for satellite speakers or other
destinations. The output level can be xed, or
follow the system volume control setting.
Analogue
Inputs
XLRs Adjust level
Digital
Input
AES3 XLR or RJ45
32-192kHz
Gain
Stage
for optimal
conversion
A/D
24-bit
converison
at 96kHz
Volume,
roll-off, PEQ,
phase and
protection
DSP
SRC
Sample rate
conversion
to 96kHz
Digital
Output
DACXLRs
Conversion
to analogue
DAC
AMP
Power amp
Analogue
Outputs
AES3 XLR
and RJ45
Page 12
Unpacking and care
!
The PMC twenty5 active subwoofer is packed in a heavy-duty protective carton. Please retain the
carton to ensure that the loudspeaker can be transported safely if the need arises in the future. If you
dispose of the packaging please do so in an environmentally responsible and safe way.
What’s in the Box?
1x twenty5 sub
2x twenty5 sub plinth bars
1x Grille
4x Cork isolators
4x Spike pucks
4x M8 spikes
4x M8 countersunk bolts
1x AC mains power cable
2x RCA - XLR phono adapter
1x Cleaning cloth
1x User Guide
• The twenty5 sub is heavy. Please take care when lifting from the carton.
• Do not attempt to use the loudspeaker if the packaging has been water-damaged.
• Please Note: This unit must be earthed
Care and Service
In normal usage PMC speakers should provide many years of trouble-free operation, but in the unlikely
event that you suspect damage or failure has occurred do not attempt to repair the unit yourself.
There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Contact your dealer for advice and a service return
address.
Clean the cabinets with a dry and lint-free cloth, and avoid the use of solvents as they may damage
the nish of the unit.
Page 13
Installing the resonance absorbing
Tip
Tip
Tip
Tip
!
!
Tip
DE
plinth bars
Resonance damping plinth bars and spikes enhance the performance and
stability of the twenty5 sub. The bars attach to the base of each speaker
using 4 x M8 countersunk bolts. The twenty5 series spikes can be used on
sensitive hard ooring with the use of the spike pucks.
Carefully invert the subwoofer so that its base is uppermost. Take care not
to damage the top of the cabinet when it is upside-down, the use of a
soft cloth or square of carpet is suggested.
Locate the large M8 bolts and tighten them gently using the allen key
supplied until the heads of the bolts are ush with the bars surface. Once
the bolts are ush carefully tighten each bolt by half a turn.
Do not over tighten. Over tightening will reduce the effect of the
resonance absorbing material
The spikes are sharp and should be treated with great care and may
damage hard ooring if in direct contact.
You have the option of using the spike pucks for use on more sensitive
ooring.
Re-invert the loudspeaker so that the spikes and plinth are at the bottom.
Once in position, level the loudspeaker by adjusting each spike in turn.
Page 14
Connections
!
!
!
Tip
Tip
Caution
To avoid potential damage, please ensure that the signal source is turned off before
connecting or disconnecting your twenty5 active subwoofer.
The rear panel of the twenty5 sub features the following connections:
Audio
2 x Balanced analogue XLR inputs
If you are using an unbalanced Phono/RCA analogue
connection, use the Phono/RCA to XLR converters
included.
1 x AES3 digital balance input
The balanced connections are wired: pin-1 screen
(ground), pin-2 positive, and pin-3 negative.
The input is selected via the rear panel menu system.
www.pmc-speakers.com
k
c
a
b
Each input has a corresponding output which can provide
either the full range signal or a high-pass ltered version,
selected via the menu system (see page 18).
Power
IEC (C14) mains socket with power switch. The twenty5 sub
accepts AC mains voltages between 90-132 and 180-264V.
In – Thru Connections
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
SERVICING BY AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY
CAUTION - RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN
PRECAUTION - RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NAS PAS OUVRIR
WARNING - THIS ITEM IS CAPABLE OF PRODUCING HIGH SOUND PRESSURE
LEVELS WHICH COULD CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING DAMAGE
DO NOT USE WITHOUT AN EARTHED MAINS CONNECTION
DO NOT EXPOSE TO MOISTURE OR WATER
designed, made & tested in the UK
n
a
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a
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a
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on
off
100-240V~
50-60Hz 80W
g
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in
thru
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i
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n
TM
Advanced Transmission Line
These connections serve no function in a domestic/
consumer system. These would only be utilised in a
specialist professional recording studio environment
– Do not use.
THIS UNIT MUST BE EARTHED
Page 15
Positioning and alignment
Tip
Tip
With their unique TMcabinet design, ultra-low distortion, and smooth bass roll-off, PMC loudspeakers are
more forgiving of difcult room conditions and placement constraints than conventional designs. However,
we encourage you to spend some time experimenting in your own room to achieve the very best results,
remembering that small changes in location can often inuence system performance signicantly. The
following guidelines are suggestions for a starting point to locate your new subwoofer and optimise its
alignment. Fine-tuning can start from there.
Positioning
Since the twenty5 active subwoofer only reproduces frequencies below 150Hz, it doesn’t contribute
information towards stereo imaging, and can therefore be placed independently of the main satellite
stereo loudspeakers. However, the ideal positioning will be affected by the nature of the room’s standing
waves.
A simple way of nding the optimal location for the subwoofer is to place it initially at the listening position.
Play music or test signals with wide ranging bass notes and move around the potential subwoofer locations
listening for the position which gives the most uniform sound with minimal boomy or weak notes. The
subwoofer can then be relocated to the most uniform position. Ideally, this will be close to the front wall
and somewhere between the two front speakers.
Alignment/tuning
Once the optimal location has been decided, the subwoofer’s electrical tuning can be performed. The
rst parameter to adjust is the low-pass lter frequency and roll-off. These should complement the satellite
speaker’s low-frequency roll-off.
Next, the Phase can be aligned to ensure that the subwoofer signal through the crossover region arrives at
the listening position in-phase with the satellite speakers. A test signal (sine wave tone) can be used at a
frequency which will be reproduced by both the satellite speakers and subwoofer – typically around 85Hz.
The phase control (and if necessary the polarity inversion) should be adjusted to make the tone as loud as
possible, indicating proper alignment.
Finally, the level of the subwoofer can be adjusted to provide a smooth and balanced extension to the
low-frequency performance of the satellite speakers. When set correctly you will be almost unaware of
the subwoofer’s contribution, noticing its absence when switched off. If you are aware of it in normal use it
is probably turned up too loud!
Page 16
Operational controls
Tip
Tip
The twenty5 active subwoofer is congured and controlled via a simple menu system which is viewed on the
rear panel display and navigated by four associated push-buttons.
Looking at the four cursor buttons, the left and right buttons step back (exit) and select (enter) the menu
options, respectively, while the upper and lower buttons scroll through the various menu options and adjust
the parameter values. The menu structure is simple, logical and intuitive, and uses clear display legends to
indicate the selected function and parameter.
When the twenty5 active subwoofer is connected to a mains supply it will power-up with the default display.
Pressing any of the four rear panel buttons will turn the system on. The factory default settings will initially
congure the subwoofer to use the analogue XLR inputs, with the input sensitivity set to +12.5dB, Trim 0dB,
all the equalisation set at, backlight timeout 2 minutes, and the volume set to -20.5dB.
Factory Reset
The factory default settings can quickly be restored by pressing and holding the Up and Down buttons
simultaneously for more than 2 seconds.
Default Display
With the subwoofer switched on, the LCD window normally indicates the current volume level and the
selected low-pass lter frequency and slope. The system volume is indicated in decibels on the upper line of
the display, within the range -48.5 to +15dB. To increase or decrease the current volume level press the up/
down buttons. The LF roll-off settings are displayed on the second line, with the roll off frequency followed
by the slope.
Volume–20.5dB
LFRollOff
Power Mode
By pressing the right (enter) button, the next menu level is accessed which accesses the power standby
mode. By pressing the right button again, power standby is selected and the LCD will show ‘Zzz’ to indicate
the standby (Sleep) condition. The backlight will switch off.
Zzz
NOTE: The subwoofer can be activated again by pressing any rear panel button.
Page 17
Setup Mode
Tip
Tip
Pressing the right (enter) button twice from the default volume display accesses the Setup menu, and the
up/down buttons can then be used to access the various options.
Setup
+10dBGain
After selecting the desired option pressing the right button again displays the current parameter value,
and the up/down buttons can be used to alter the value. Pressing the left (exit) button exits the parameter
level and allows other options to be selected.
+10dBGain
Off
Set Up Menu Options:
+10dB Gain Introduces +10dB gain to suit Dolby Digital LFE requirements
Phase Rev Polarity inversion, Off or On
Phase Phase alignment from 0 to 180 degrees in 5 degree increments
Paramtric EQ Switches single parametric EQ band Off or On
PEQ Gain Adjusts parametric EQ gain(-8.00dB to +7.87dB)
PEQ Frequency Adjusts parametric EQ centre frequency(20Hz to 150Hz)
PEQ Q Adjusts parametric EQ bandwidth(Q=1 to 8)
BL Timeout Sets the time after which the LCD backlight will switch off.
Options: 30 sec, 2 min, 5 min, off (no timeout)
TrimInput trim level (-8.00dB to +7.87dB)
Analogue In SensInput sensitivity (+4dB to +20dB)
SourceSelects input source
(Analogue XLR, AES3 Left Channel, AES3 Right Channel, AES3 L+R)
LR Out Level Fixed or variable
LR Out ResponseFiltered or Full Range
LF Rolloff Slope Off, or 18, 12 or 6dB/Octave
LF Rolloff Freq Selects the low-pass roll-off turnover frequency
Frequency options: 50, 80
,
120, 150, or 200Hz
Page 18
5 Min
30 sec
Off (no timeout)
AES3 Chan L+R
AES3 Chan Left
AES3 Chan Right
6dB/Oct
18dB/Oct
12dB/Oct
200Hz
150Hz
–+10dB Gain–Off / OnOff
Setup
Phase–0 – 180 degrees0
Phase Reverse–Off / OnOff
PEQ Q–1 – 81
PEQ Freq–20Hz – 150Hz20Hz
PEQ Gain–-8.00dB to +7.87dB0
Parametric EQ–Off / OnOff
BL Timeout–2 min2 min
Trim–-8.00dB to +7.87dB0
Source–AnalogueAnalogue
Analogue In Sens–+4dB – +20dB+12.5dB
LR Out Level–Fixed / VariableFixed
LR Out Response–Filtered / Full RangeFiltered
LF Roll-off Slope–OffOff
LF Roll-Off Freq–50Hz50Hz
PMC sub120Hz
Power Off–Zzz80Hz
Pressing volume up and volume down together >2 sec whilst in default menu returns menus to factory defaults
First power-up from the mains switch boots speaker and default display
Mains Power IEC connector. 90-132 / 180-264V AC 50 / 60Hz Auto-sensing
Usable Frequency Response 22Hz to 200Hz
Effective
Length 3m (9.8ft)
Drive units
2 x PMC twenty5 series 6.5”/170mm long-throw g-weave™ cone
with cast alloy chassis
Cabinet dimensions H 587mm (+20mm spikes)
W 200mm (274mm inc plinths) D 516mm (+9mm grille)
Finish Diamond Black
Weight 25kg
Page 27
Service
Tip
Tip
!
We are condent your twenty5 subwoofer will afford many years of trouble-free
listening of the highest order. B ut in the unlikely event that it requires repair, our
unique manufacturing procedure, wherein the precise value of each component
together with the response of the system as a whole is recorded, will ensure
that any replaced parts will exactly match the performance of those originally
included within the subwoofer.
For any issues that might arise or for advice and service requirements, the primary
point of contact should be your knowledgeable and authorised PMC dealer/
distributor.
If you do not have a local representative please see www.pmc-speakers.com
and click on ‘where to buy’.
Alternatively you can view our FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and servicing
section on our website.
Important Note: Please do not return any products to PMC directly
without rst contacting our service department.
Page 28
The twenty5 series
Tip
Tip
The twenty5 series currently spans 7 different models, from the 3-way oorstanding twenty5.26
down to the diminutive standmounting twenty5.21. However, every monitor is designed with the
same care and attention, using shared families of drive units and crossover designs. As a direct
consequence they all enjoy the same family characteristics of wide dispersion, low distortion,
consistent voicing, and an even bass response regardless of listening level. This feature allows
different sizes of speakers to be used in concert to create effective multichannel systems.
Page 29
Tip
Tip
Our meticulous attention to detail
All PMC loudspeakers are hand-built in the U.K. using individual components
that are matched to our reference model; this includes the structural integrity
of every cabinet and the testing and recording of each component. This
guarantees it will be within our strict tolerances and ensures your purchase
sounds identical to the original design. Each completed loudspeaker then
undergoes a set of objective and subjective measurements - frequency response
sweeps ensure that the design meets our exacting performance criteria, and
then listening tests are conducted against the reference model using a wide
variety of material, from a benchmark BBC speech test to classical music,
pop and rock.
“Computers don’t tell the full story. As well as a full frequency
analysis, we listen to each speaker we make and run a
benchmark BBC speech and music test on every single one.”
Page 30
Tip
Tip
Inspection checklist
Every component that appears in a PMC product is measured, tested, matched
and recorded by hand. This analysis also applies to the nal product we build to ensure
you receive an identical replica of the reference model.
Enclosure nish
Assembly & Wiring
Driver Installation
Enclosure seal
Level - Frequency
Impedance - frequency
Listening test 1
Listening test 2
Final inspection
Accessory pack
User Guide
The builder’s signature on the front of this user guide signies that all the above tests
have been successfully completed.
Page 31
Warranty on-line
SIMPLY ACTIVATE YOUR 5 YEAR
WARRANTY ON-LINE
GO TO WWW.PMC-SPEAKERS.COM AND CLICK ON REGISTER PRODUCT
WARRANTY ON-LINE
If you do not have access to the internet ll in the
warranty form found on pages 33 & 34 and post it to us.
Page 32
WARRANTY CERTIFICATE - PART 1
Your copy
to keep
Please complete and retain this page for your own records
Product
Serial nos
Date of purchase
Dealers name
Dealers address
Town
County
Postcode
Dealers telephone no
Servicing and warranty issues – Please read the following carefully.
Non UK clients: Contact your local dealer/distributor for the details of warranty repairs - see www.pmc-speakers.com and click on ‘where
to buy’ for their details.
UK clients: In the unlikely event of a fault occurring with your The Professional Monitor Company Limited (PMC) product rstly contact your
dealer where the product was purchased.
Do not return a product to PMC without rstly contacting our technical dept. If the product must be returned for service you will be issued
with a ‘Returns Authorisation Number’.
If a product is returned to PMC and subsequently is found to have no fault or a non-warranty fault it will be subject to a minimum of £50.00
plus the carriage for its return.
Proof of purchase is required for any claim covered by this warranty.
This product is warranted for a period of 20 years from the date of purchase or upon receipt of ‘our copy’ overleaf or on-line registration
within ten days of purchase or receipt.
The warranty covers defects due to faulty materials or workmanship but does not cover defects arising from accidental damage,
misuse or wear and tear. The warranty is void if any attempt has been made by persons not authorised by PMC to dismantle,
repair or modify any part of the product.
Products must be returned using original packing material. This warranty does not cover damage in transit.
Note that the cost of the carriage to PMC is not covered by the warranty.
Returned products that are defective that are covered by warranty will be repaired or replaced at the discretion of PMC.
Allow minimum of 14 working days for return of warranty repairs.
This warranty does not effect your consumer rights under statutory law. This warranty is only valid in the United Kingdom.
Page 33
Tip
WARRANTY CERTIFICATE - PART 2
Our copy
Please complete and return this section - or simply complete the on-line
registration at www.pmc-speakers.com and click on register product.
Product
Serial Nos
Date of purchase
Purchased from
Your Name
Your email address
Your address
Town
County
Postcode/Zip code
Help us improve
our products
see over
Page 34
Help us Improve Your comments
Tip
Tip
If there is one thing we should change, what would it be?
We value all our client’s comments. Please take a moment to help us improve:
Please tell us how your new PMC’s perform. Your comments may appear on
the customer quotes section for this product on our site. N.B. Don’t worry the
comments will be anonymous; your personal details will not appear.
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HiFi Critic Resolution FHM HiFi WigWam.com
HiFi News Audiofanzine Shortlist What HiFi.com
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We hope you enjoy your latest purchase as much as we enjoyed designing