Sonance A800DR INS User Manual

I N S T A L L A T I O N I N S T R U C T I O N S

SONANCE VIRTUOSO3 A800DR IN-CEILING WOOFER

PN. 33-2294

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing Sonance Virtuoso A800DR in-ceiling woofer.
When properly installed, this product will provide you with years of
entertainment pleasure.

To obtain the full potential of your new speaker, please read all
instructions before starting the installation. If you do not have the
necessary skills to install the speakers yourself, contact your
authorized Sonance dealer for installation options.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using your Virtuoso A800DR woofer, basic safety precautions should always be followed
to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, including the following:

1. Read and understand all instructions.

2. Retain the safety and installation instructions for future reference.

3. Follow all warnings and instructions in this manual and marked on the product.

4. Any service or repair required must be performed by qualified factory authorized
personnel.

5. Do not use this product in a high humidity environment or near water, for example a wet
basement, wet bar, or swimming pool.

6. Never touch the drivers or push objects of any kind into this product through the grilles.

7. Always provide adequate ventilation for the Virtuoso A800 amplifier. Allow a minimum
of one inch above and three inches behind the amplifier. Do not block cooling vents on

the amplifier case.

8. The amplifier should be situated away from heat sources such as heat registers,
radiators, stoves, or other appliances that produce heat.

9. The amplifier should only be connected to a power supply of the type marked on the
back panel. The power supply cord should be routed to avoid damage from contact with
sharp objects or being stepped on.

10. Unplug the amplifier during thunderstorms or when the system will be unused for

extended periods.

11. Exercise care to avoid spilling liquids on or in the amplifier or speakers.

12. Do not place the amplifier on an unstable table, stand, or cart.
Improper placement of the amplifier may cause it to fall on an
adult or child causing serious injury and damage to the amplifier.

13. The Virtuoso A800 amplifier shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no
objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the Virtuoso A800 amplifier.

14. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.

15. Non-Use Periods - The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet
when left unused for a long period of time.

16. Damage requiring service - The appliance should be serviced by qualified service
personnel when:

A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged
B. Objects have fallen, or liquids have been spilled into the appliance
C. The appliance has been exposed to rain
D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance
E. The appliance has been dropped or appears to have been damaged

17. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in
the installation instructions. All other servicing should be refereed to qualified service

personnel.

18. Storms - To prevent damage to components, unplug all electronic equipment during
thunderstorms.

PARTS LIST

Each Virtuoso A800DR includes the following items:

(1) Sonance Virtuoso A800DR speaker

(1) Sonance Virtuoso A800 150 watt amplifier

(1) Paintable grille

(1) Plastic paint plug to protect speaker during painting

(1) Mounting cutout template ( in packaging )

HOME THEATER PLACEMENT

For best performance the Virtuoso A800DR woofer should be placed in
the front corner of the room as shown in the illustration below. Keep
the woofer as close as possible to the left, center and right speakers
to assure seamless integration of the sound from the main speaker
and the woofer.

The woofer should not be mounted in the same joist bay as the left
and right speakers.

Virtuoso A800DR woofer

TV

Home Theater Placement

2 - CHANNEL AUDIO PLACEMENT

In a two channel system the woofer should be located in a corner of
the room and as close as possible to the left or right speaker. Corner
placement of the woofer will provide more predictable performance
and higher output level.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

PERSONNEL

The lighting flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the
product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

WARNING:

TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK

MOISTURE

SHOCK,DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR

BACK)NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS

INSIDEREFER SERVICING TO

QUALIFIEDSERVICE

HAZARDDO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE

TORAIN OR

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

Virtuoso A800DR woofer

Two Channel Audio Placement

1

WIRE GAUGE AND QUALITY

The total wire resistance should be less than 10% of the speaker
impedance. If using an 8 ohm speaker, your total wire resistance
should be no more than 0.8 ohms.

In simple terms, the extra resistance from the wire will have a very
negative affect on the sound quality of the speaker. The sound can be
less dynamic, definition of bass frequencies can be reduced. Amplifier
power is also wasted in the wire, reducing the maximum output level
of the system.

Please refer to the following chart when deciding on the appropriate
wire gauge for your installation.

Wire resistance in Ohms vs. length of cable run

Distance in Feet

20 gauge

18 gauge

16 gauge

14 gauge

12 gauge

10 gauge

50' 100' 150' 200' 250' 300'

.86

1.73

2.59

3.45

4.32

5.18

.65

1.30

1.94

2.59

3.24

3.89

.43

.85

1.28

1.71

2.14

2.56

.27

.54

.81

1.08

1.35

1.62

.17

.34

.51

.68

.85

1.02

.11

.22

.33

.44

.56

.67

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

FlexBracket - part number 90-1358

Coverplate - part number 91457

Plastic template to reserve hole in new construction.
Designed to be used with the Roto-lock3 mounting system.

Designed to cover hole made by FlexBracket3 until the
speaker is installed.

Sonafill3

Sonafill is a retrofitable acoustical treatment for loudspeakers that
virtually eliminates the noise produced by resonating drywall and
dramatically improves bass sound quality. Sonafill also reduces room­to-room noise especially in multi-channel installations where many
speakers are installed.

The Sonafill system consists of two pillows and four tiles. Installation
is accomplished by first adhering the tiles to the inside of the cavity,
then stuffing the two pillows in place behind the tiles.

Acoustic Pillow

Damping Tiles

Acoustic Pillow

The Sonafill System

New Construction

The Virtuoso A800DR speaker features an integral Roto-Lock3
mounting system for quick mounting into ceilings. The Virtuoso DR
FlexBracket is only necessary in new construction installations when
reserving a location for the speaker is desired.

The FlexBracket will serve as a guide for the drywaller when cutting
holes for in-ceiling speakers. The FlexBracket is nailed or screwed to
the joists so that the hole is in the desired location once the drywall is
installed.

Damping Tiles

PREPARING THE INSTALLATION LOCATION

All Sonance speakers are designed to be relatively insensitive to
changes in enclosure volume. To achieve the ultimate performance
from the Virtuoso A800DR speaker, a section of the ceiling bay can be
sectioned off to form a back box. Building this enclosure will create a
dramatic improvement in the quality of bass response and power
handling.

Back box volume requirement:

A800DR 1.50 cubic feet (45.5 liters)

Insulating the ceiling cavity

Speaker performance can be enhanced by insulating the cavity with
fiberglass insulation.

When installing speakers in a ceiling, it is best to lay a sheet of
unfaced fiberglass insulation over the back of the speaker.

To further improve the sound quality, install insulation in the bays
adjacent to the speaker location. This will reduce noise produced by
the unsupported drywall.

Virtuoso DR FlexBracket

Retrofit

With the Roto-Lock system, the speaker can be installed directly into
existing ceilings. Once the hole is cut and the cable is run, the
speakers can be installed in a matter of seconds.

Once you have determined the area you would like to locate your
speakers, you will need to do an obstruction survey. Before you cut
the hole for the speaker, be certain no joist, conduit, pipe, heating
duct or air return will interfere with the speaker.

The Virtuoso A800DR speaker requires a hole that is 10" in diameter.
There must also be 5-3/4" of depth within the ceiling for the speaker.

A cut out template is provided in the packaging of the speaker.
Position the template where the speaker is to be located and pencil an
outline on the ceiling. If you are unsure about obstructions drill a small
hole in the center of the circle and insert a coat hanger into the hole
to feel for possible obstructions. If no obstructions are found, proceed
with cutting the hole using a drywall saw and run the speaker wires.

2

INSTALLING THE SPEAKERS

CONNECTING THE AMPLIFIER

Step 1

Remove the paint plug from the
speaker. Attach the wire from your
amplifier to the terminals on the back of
the speaker. Double check the polarity
of the speaker wires, amplifier + to
speaker + and amplifier - to speaker -.
Proper polarity is critical in home
theater installations.

Step 2

Make sure the Roto-Lock clamps are in
the full clockwise position so that all the
clamps are tucked within the cutout
border. Insert the speaker into the hole
in the ceiling.

Note: The maximum clamp thickness is
1-1/4" (32mm)

Step 3

Tighten the four screws on the front of
the baffle. The Roto-Lock clamps will
rotate into position automatically and
begin clamping. When you notice
resistance on the four screws, the
speaker has been clamped successfully.

The flange is designed to flex and
conform to any small imperfections in
the wall surface. The screws should not
be tightened so far that the flange bows
out.

Step 4

After the speaker is clamped to the
drywall the grille can be installed. Insert
about half of the grille into the groove at
the edge of the speaker. Gently fit the
remaining half of the grill into the
speaker by working your hands around
the speaker fitting the grille into the
groove as you go along.

Note: The torque applied to the
mounting screws can be adjusted for
proper grille fit.

Power connection

Voltage switch

Auto on / off switch

WARNING HAZARDOUS ENERGY,MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS;SEE OWNERS

MANUAL BEFORE USING DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE
ATTENTION: DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER FUSIBLE
ATTENTION: VOIR LE CAHIER D' INSTRUCTION

LINE

LINE

INPUT

OUTPUT

ATTENTION: UTILISER UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE

SONANCES/N_____________

A DIVISION OF DANA INNOVA TIONS SAN CLEMENTE,

___

CA 92672

SUBWOOFER OUTPUT

+

Virtuoso Amplifier

-

SPEAKER LEVEL

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION :FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE

HAZARD USE ONLY SAME TYPE AND RATING FUSE.

Woofer output

Line level inputs and outputs

Speaker level inputs and outputs

Power connection

The Virtuoso A800DR amplifier uses a 14 gauge EIA standard 120 volt
grounded power cable. Never attempt to operate the amplifier from
the accessory outlet of another component.

Voltage Switch

This switch is set in the 120 volt position from the factory. This is the
correct setting for use in the United States.

If you are using this amplifier in a country where the voltage is
between 220 and 240 volts this switch should be changed to the 230
volt setting. If you are using the amplifier in its 230 volt setting the
fuse located above the power connector must be changed.

IMPORTANT: Included with the amplifier is a 2 amp fuse for this
purpose. Before making any changes to the voltage setting or the fuse
make sure the amplifier is unplugged from its power source.

Audio input options

There are two ways to get your audio signal into the Virtuoso A800DR
amplifier, line level and speaker level. Under no circumstances should
you try to use both at the same time. Turn off all equipment before
connecting your the Virtuoso A800DR amplifier to your system.

Line level input

The Virtuoso A800DR amplifier features line level inputs and unfiltered
line outputs. Use this connection if your receiver or preamp has a line
level subwoofer output. If you are using your Virtuoso A800DR in a
system with a separate preamp and amplifier you can connect the
Virtuoso A800DR between the preamp and amplifier using the input
and output jacks. If your subwoofer output from your receiver or
preamp is mono you can use either the left or right input on the
Virtuoso A800DR amp.

Speaker level input

If you are using a receiver as the source in your system this will be the
input you will probably use. When using this input connect the speaker
output from your receiver to the speaker level input of the Virtuoso
A800DR amplifier. Connect the wires from your left and right main
speakers to the speaker level output of the Virtuoso A800DR amplifier.

Woofer output

The five way binding posts is where the wire from your Virtuoso
woofer will connect to the amplifier. Make sure when connecting the
wire that the polarity is correct; positive to positive and negative to
negative.

Auto on / off switch

When this switch is in the on position the amplifier will turn on when it
senses a signal on either of the inputs. The amplifier will remain on for
approximately 5 minuets after a signal is detected. If you would like to
control the power of the amplifier, the switch should be set to the off
position. This will allow the amplifier to be turned on and shut off
using the power switch on the front of the chassis.

3

Power light

Active light

Voltage switch

Frequency

Phase

Level

PowerActivePower

SETTING THE AMPLIFIER CONTROLS

Power Switch

The power switch turns the Virtuoso A800DR amplifier on and off. The
auto on switch on the back of the amplifier will affect the operation of
the power switch, see the description of the auto on/off control on
page three.

Active Light

The active light shows when the amplifier is operating.

Power Light

The power light indicates that the amplifier has electrical power
connected to it.

Frequency

Use this control to adjust the frequency you would like the Virtuoso
woofer to extend up to. If you are using the woofer in a surround
system and the receiver or processor has a built in crossover you
should set the Virtuoso amplifier at 250hz.

The best way to adjust this control is to put on some music or pink
noise and adjust the control till the system sounds good to you.

Phase

The phase control can be adjusted from 0 to 180 degrees. A simple
explanation of this control would be that at the 0 setting when a
positive signal is sent to the woofer the woofer driver will move out.
When the control is set to 180 degrees a positive signal will make the
woofer driver move in. This control will allow you to better integrate
the Virtuoso woofer and your main speakers.

The best way to adjust this control is to put on some music or pink
noise and adjust the control till the system sounds good to you.

Level

The level control adjusts the output level of the Virtuoso woofer. Use
the built in generator in your receiver or processor and a sound
pressure level meter to calibrate your system accurately. If your
equipment does not have a built in generator you can adjust the level
by ear. Listen to music you are familiar with and set the level to your
taste.

PAINTING THE SPEAKERS AND GRILLES

Speakers and grilles can be painted before installation, which will
eliminate the "paint scar" if the speaker needs to be removed for
service. Speakers may also be painted after installation, but before the
grilles are attached. All speakers come from the factory fitted with a
plastic "paint plug." Use the paint plug to protect the drivers while the
flange is being painted with the ceiling.

Sonance suggests always painting the grilles separate from the
speaker. The grilles may be lightly sprayed with thin paint (5 parts
thinning agent to 1 part paint), but be careful not to plug the holes.
Too much paint will adversely affect the sound of the speaker.

Once the grilles and flange are painted and dry, remove the paint plug
from the flange and install the grilles.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND SERVICE

The Technical Assistance Department at Sonance is available at [phone]
or [phone] to answer any questions concerning the operation and
installation of your speaker between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific
time, Monday through Friday, except holidays.

In the event your unit should need repair or service, you may return the unit to
your authorized dealer or use the following guidelines:

1. Be prepared to state the model number and / or serial number, date of
purchase and dealer's name and address when calling.

2. Contact Sonance directly at [phone] or [phone] or at
www.sonance.com

3. If you are returning the product directly to Sonance, call us to obtain a

return authorization number before shipping. YOU MUST HAVE PRIOR

AUTHORIZATION TO RETURN YOUR UNIT.

4. The original packaging must be used. If the original packaging is unavailable

replacements can be obtained from Sonance for a small fee.

5. Ship the product via United Parcel Service, Federal Express, or RPS.

Please do not use the U.S. Mail service.

6. Write the return authorization number on the outside of the box.

7. Ship to:

Attn: Quality Assurance Department

Sonance
212 Avenida Fabricante
San Clemente, CA 92672-7531

8. FREIGHT COLLECT SHIPMENTS WILL BE REFUSED !

WARRANTY COVERAGE SPEAKER ( U.S. ONLY )

If, within five (5) years from the date shown on the bill of sale, the unit fails due
to a defect in workmanship or material, Sonance will, at its option and at no
charge, repair or replace the components of such unit which prove to be
defective. For this warranty to be effective, the bill of sale must show that the
unit was purchased from an "Authorized Sonance Dealer". This warranty shall
apply exclusively to the original purchaser and shall not apply to units purchased
for industrial or commercial use.

Furthermore, this warranty shall not apply if:

1. Damage to the unit was caused by accident, abuse or misuse;

2. The unit was opened, modified, or repaired by unauthorized personnel.

3. The unit was not used as outlined in the operating instructions.

WARRANTY COVERAGE AMPLIFIER ( U.S. ONLY )

If, within one (1) year from the date shown on the bill of sale, the unit fails due
to a defect in workmanship or material, Sonance will, at its option and at no
charge, repair or replace the components of such unit which prove to be
defective. For this warranty to be effective, the bill of sale must show that the
unit was purchased from an "Authorized Sonance Dealer". This warranty shall
apply exclusively to the original purchaser and shall not apply to units purchased
for industrial or commercial use.

Furthermore, this warranty shall not apply if:

1. Damage to the unit was caused by accident, abuse or misuse;

2. The unit was opened, modified, or repaired by unauthorized personnel.

3. The unit was not used as outlined in the operating instructions.

EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS

The warranty set forth above is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or
implied, of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or otherwise. The
warranty is limited to Sonance products registered herein and specifically
excludes any damage to loudspeakers and other allied or associated equipment
which may result for any reason from use with this product. Sonance shall in no
event be liable for incidental or consequential damages arising from any breach
of this warranty or otherwise. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and
you may have rights which vary from state to state.

Sonance $ 212 Avenida Fabricante $ San Clemente, CA 92672-7531, USA $ [phone] or [phone] $ FAX: [phone] $ Technical Support: [phone]

c

2002 Sonance. Sonance Virtuoso, Roto-Lock, and Sonafill are trademarks of Sonance.