OWNER’S MANUAL
Starlet Series
Starlet 4 / Starlet 6 / Starlet 9
Line Source In-Wall Speakers
®
SpeakerCraft
Starlet Owner’s Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GETTING STARTED ........................................................................................................................................ 2
SPEAKER PLACEMENT .................................................................................................................................3-4
Unique Characteristics of the Starlet Series .................................................................................................................... 3
Installation Height ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
Deciding Distance Apart ...............................................................................................................................................4
Checking for Obstructions ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Clearance Needed ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
Home Theater Applications ........................................................................................................................................... 4
Rear / Side Channels.....................................................................................................................................................4
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS .................................................................................................................. 4
INSTALLATION PREPARATION ......................................................................................................................5-6
New Construction ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Finished Wall ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
SPEAKER INSTALLATION ..............................................................................................................................6-9
Wiring the Starlet 4 ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
Wiring the Starlets 6 and 9 ...........................................................................................................................................7
Installation in a 2x4 Stud Wall ....................................................................................................................................... 7
Installation in a 2x6 or Deeper Wall .............................................................................................................................. 9
Grille Installation ...........................................................................................................................................................9
PAINTING THE STARLETS ............................................................................................................................... 9
SPEAKER ADJUSTMENTS ..........................................................................................................................10-11
Starlet 4 Adjustments ..................................................................................................................................................10
Starlets 6 and 9 Level Adjustments .............................................................................................................................. 10
Subwoofer Adjustments .............................................................................................................................................. 11
SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 11
WARRANTY / CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE ......................................................................................................... 12
Page 2 Starlet Owner’s Manual
GETTING STARTED
Your Starlet 4, 6 or 9 speakers are individually packed with the following:
• Back Box/Driver Assembly
• Bezel/Flange Assembly
• Cardboard Cut-Out Template and Paint Mask
• Accessory Pack
• Outer Bracket
• Inner Bracket
• Foam Support Block
• Screws: Two M4 x 20mm for Outer/Inner Bracket
Two Hex Head M4 x 45mm Screws per Driver
(8 for Starlet 4, 12 for Starlet 6 and 18 for Starlet 9)
• 3mm Hex Head M4 Driver Bit (for electric screwdriver)
Also available separately for the Starlets 6 and 9:
• SCT-1.0 Starlet Calibration Tools
• ASM89000: Complete Kit with Test CD and Analog Voltmeter with Leads
• ASM89001: Test CD Only
(See Diagram 1)
For installation of your Starlets, you will need the following:
• Stud Finding Tool • Masking tape or tacks (for template)
• Drywall Saw • Level
• Electric Screwdriver • Wire Strippers
• Hand Screwdriver with #2 Phillips Head • Utility Knife
• Pencil (for marking wall) • Tape Measure
Amplifier Requirements:
• Starlet 4: Minimum 75 watts per channel stereo amplifier with low impedance capability (i.e. SpeakerCraft BB275)
• Starlets 6 and 9:
level controls on each channel
• The SpeakerCraft BB275 is a good starting point for all 3 models of the Starlet
Two (2) minimum 75 watts per channel stereo amplifiers with low impedance capability and individual
Diagram 1:
Accessory Pack
Starlet Owner’s Manual Page 3
SPEAKER PLACEMENT
SpeakerCraft highly recommends the use of a qualified custom installation specialist when installing your Starlet speakers. Please
note that all Starlet models require a separate powered subwoofer. In addition, the Starlets 6 and 9 are bi-amplified and require
precise electrical adjustment with a voltmeter and test CD. If this sounds intimidating please consult an expert. You can get
assistance in locating an installation specialist please by contacting SpeakerCraft at 1-800-448-0976.
UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STARLET SERIES
All three Starlet models are the world’s first coincident in-wall line sources. They have acoustical properties that will produce great
advantages in custom installations, but there is one factor that the installer must be aware of when specifying which model to
use and when determining the best listening location.
A pair of Starlets produce a startling and clear stereo image, making a center
speaker unnecessary in many installations. However, the high frequency output
of a line source is only audible to listeners whose ear level is directly in line with
the speaker array. In other words, if a pair of Starlets are installed at seated ear
level and if the listener stands up, so that his or her ears are above the top of
the top speaker, the high notes will vanish. (See Diagram 2) This is the reason
why very long Starlet models are made available. In a large room where people
are going to be listening while seated or standing, the two larger models
(Starlets 6 or 9) are optimum.
By “coincident”, we mean that the acoustic center of the woofer (low frequency)
array and the acoustic center of the tweeter (high frequency) array are lined
up. This means that there are no frequency shifts to the right or left side of the
speaker, and this advantage is why the image produced by the Starlets is superior to any previous in-wall speaker.
INSTALLATION HEIGHT
SpeakerCraft’s engineers have experimented extensively with the correct height for
Starlets and recommend that the installer determine the listener’s seated ear height.
For the best sonic balance and image, the center of any Starlet model should be
located 5" to 7" above this ear height. (See Diagram 3) In most of the rooms we
have looked at, this means the center of the Starlet should be 48" to 49". On the
Starlet 9, this means the top of the speaker will be about 7 feet high.
In rooms where the Starlets must be higher than this recommendation, it is imperative to make sure that the seated listening position be at least in line with the division
between the lowest and the next-to-lowest driver module. If this cannot be achieved,
use a larger Starlet model.
Diagram 2:
Side and Top Views of
Line Source Sound Dispersion
Diagram 3:
Listening Height
Page 4 Starlet Owner’s Manual
DECIDING DISTANCE APART
Consider how far apart the speakers should be. To do this, think of your listening area as
a triangle with each leg of the triangle being equal. This equilateral triangle is the most
distance you should have between your speakers relative to the normal listening position.
(See Diagram 4)
CHECKING FOR OBSTRUCTIONS
Before confirming the placement of your Starlet speakers, you should carefully consider
the location of studs, fire blocks, electrical, plumbing and other fixtures or obstructions that
may get in the way. If you are installing the speakers into an existing wall, you can locate
obstructions by noting the placement of wall fixtures and, if possible, gaining access to an
attic or crawl space for further analysis. A good stud finder, found at any building supply
store, will help you determine where the studs are located in the wall.
CLEARANCE NEEDED
Starlets are enclosed speakers that have their own enclosures and do not require any specific back volume or damping. The enclosure is asymmetrical, a total of 111⁄4" wide. There
is no right or left, but the enclosure measures 6" from center on one side and 51⁄4" on the
other. This will give the installer a little more room on one side if necessary.
(See Diagram 5)
Diagram 5:
Asymmetrical Enclosure
HOME THEATER APPLICATIONS
Diagram 4:
Distance Apart
There are two options for front channel home theater use:
A. Put one pair of speakers VERY close to the screen, and second pair out at the “magic
equilateral triangle” point. The two speakers close to the screen would be wired as the
center channel and the Starlet’s excellent imaging and dispersion will take care of the
rest. (See Diagram 6)
B. Use a Starlet on its side for the center channel. (See Diagram 7)
REAR / SIDE CHANNELS
Starlets make excellent side or rear speakers provided the height installation limitations are
followed.
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Prior to the installation of your Starlets, it will be necessary to run cables to the speaker
locations. There are some specific recommendations for the Starlets:
Starlet 4: It is very important to use the heaviest wire in the shortest length possible. 12
gauge or bigger in a length less than 25 feet is optimum. If possible double the cable,
running two sets of 12 gauge to the Starlet 4.
Diagram 6:
Home Theater, Option A
Starlets 6 and 9 are less critical as to wire quality, but still require the largest wire practical.
Volume Control Warning: Performance of all Starlets will be seriously degraded if in-line
speaker level volume controls are used.
Diagram 7:
Home Theater, Option B
Starlet Owner’s Manual Page 5
INSTALLATION PREPARATION
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Starlets are designed to be installed into a standing wall, therefore no new construction
bracket is supplied.
There are some considerations for new construction to create the best possible sound:
1. Double Thick Drywall: The clamp between the back box and front baffle is designed
for 1⁄2" drywall (or any wall material in 1⁄2"). If you are planning double thick drywall,
leave an area about 12" wide around the Starlet opening in single thickness.
(See Diagram 8)
2. Starlets are Heavy: Walls should be constructed with screws and the wallboard
should be glued to the studs. A few dollars worth of Elmer’s wood glue can work wonders in an in-wall installation.
3. Metal Studs: Avoid these in a wall supporting Starlets
4. Wire Routing: Install the speaker wires before the wallboard goes up (see “SPEAKER INSTALLATION” for wiring information)
Diagram 8:
Double Drywall
FINISHED WALL
When installing the Starlets in a finished wall, please follow these instructions carefully:
a. Determining Placement: See “SPEAKER PLACEMENT” on pages 3-4.
b. Locating Obstructions: See “Checking for Obstructions” on page 4.
c. Tracing the Cut-Out Template: Your installation cut-out template is included in the packaging. Please be aware that there
are two sections: one is the cut-out template and the other is the paint mask. Be careful not to confuse the two. Place the
cut-out template at the location you have decided to install the Starlets. (See Diagram 9) Keep in mind that the flange will
extend beyond the cut-out on the sides, top and bottom.
The cut-out takes into account the asymmetrical shape
of the Back Box/Driver Assembly. This gives a small
degree of lateral freedom when installing the 111⁄2" wide
Back Box/Driver Assembly into a
1
typical 14
⁄2" wide stud bay. There is no real “up” or
“down” to the Starlet, so use the cut-out template to
determine the best position for the speaker in order to
avoid obstructions and to get the best acous- tic
results. There is a correct way to install the baf- fle
assembly, however, which is covered in the next section, “SPEAKER INSTALLATION”.
With the above in mind, use a level along the top or
bottom edge of the template so that the cut-out will be
aligned correctly. Use tape or tacks to hold the tem- plate
in place. Trace an outline of this pattern on the wall with a
pencil. (See Diagram 10)
Diagram 9:
Placing the Cut-Out Template
Diagram 10:
Aligning the Cut-Out Template
Page 6 Starlet Owner’s Manual
d. Cutting the Hole
CAUTION: This is the most important part of the entire installation. If you are not
certain whether or not an obstruction exists behind the desired mounting area, you
should conduct an obstruction survey by cutting small holes every 10" or 12" in the
center of the cut-out area. Cut at a 45˚ angle towards the inside of the hole. Cutting
the small hole at this angle will make drywall repair much easier as the piece cut out
can be re-installed neatly back into the hole (in the case the location is not suitable).
Once you have determined that there are no obstructions in the desired mounting
area, start cutting the hole at a 90˚ angle to the wall surface. (See Diagram 11)
e. Installing the Bracket
The Bracket comes in two pieces - Outer Bracket and Inner Bracket. The Outer Bracket
should go on the outside of the drywall, and the Inner Bracket should go inside the
drywall. Along the lower edge of the drywall cut-out, use the Outer Bracket as a template to mark the screwholes with a
pencil. Drill two clearance holes for the mounting screws. The screws pass through the Outer Bracket and drywall and
tighten into the Inner Bracket. (See Diagram 12)
Once assembled, the completed bracket will form a shelf to prevent the Back Box/Driver Assembly from falling into the wall
cavity. (See Diagram 13)
Diagram 12:
Bracket Assembly
Diagram 13:
Completed Bracket
Diagram 11:
Cutting the Hole
SPEAKER INSTALLATION
All Starlet models install in the same way. The wiring for the Starlet 4 differs from the bi-amplified Starlets 6 and 9. There are
different procedures for mounting in a standard stud depth (2x4 framed wall) and deeper walls (2x6 or deeper). The supplied
foam support block is intended for deeper walls.
The installation of Starlets is straightforward, but it is more difficult than smaller in-walls and following these directions is very
important. Of course, the final result is the best performance available from an in-wall loudspeaker so it is worth the extra effort.
WIRING THE STARLET 4
All Starlets have binding post terminals on both ends of the back box. In the case
of the Starlet 4, they are electrically identical, and allow the connection of wire to
whichever end is easier. Optionally, they allow for bi-wiring by running parallel
wires to each end of the speaker. As mentioned previously, heavy gauge wire in
the shortest length possible is needed for the Starlet 4. (See Diagram 14)
Diagram 14:
Starlet 4 Binding Posts
Starlet Owner’s Manual Page 7
WIRING THE STARLETS 6 and 9
The Starlets 6 and 9 are bi-amplified, which means that one terminal is wired to
a single amplifier channel and the other terminal is wired to a separate amplifier
channel. Thus both terminals are always used in the Starlets 6 and 9. The end plate
bearing the SpeakerCraft logo and product name is the woofer terminal, and is
marked “woofers”. The blank plate is the tweeter terminal, and is marked “tweeters”.
(See Diagram 15)
There are two options for bi-amping:
1. Use a single stereo amplifier for each speaker, with one channel for the woofer
and the other for the tweeter. This option is preferred if you have two identical
stereo amplifiers.
2. Use one amplifier for the woofers and a separate amplifier for the tweeters. This
option is preferred if you have two different stereo amplifiers. In this case, the
less powerful amplifier should be used on the tweeter section.
INSTALLATION IN A 2x4 STUD WALL
Starlet 6 and 9 Binding Posts
Diagram 15:
All Starlets are asymmetrical. Hold the Back Box/Driver Assembly by grasping
the tweeters, being careful not to touch the voice coils behind the tweeters.
The tweeter assembly is very strong, as the tweeter bridge is a cast aluminum
part. On the larger Starlets, it is advisable to have an assistant. Insert the long
side of the back box first, pushing it until the tweeter bridge stops further movement. Then slip the short side into the cavity, moving the Starlet until the tweeter
bridge is centered. The proximity of the back wall will support the speaker while
the rest of the installation is completed. (See Diagram 16)
The Bezel/Flange Assembly is installed into the Back Box/Driver Assembly,
forming a strong clamp with the wall. Please observe that there are “tabs” on the
back of the Bezel/Flange Assembly that fit into corresponding slots on the baffles.
They only fit one way, which is indicated by small arrows on these two
parts. Use the supplied M4 x 45mm hex head screws to secure the Bezel/Flange
Assembly into the Back Box/Driver Assembly. For your convenience, we’ve
enclosed the correct sized hex driver in the supplied Accessory Pack. It is strongly
advised that you use a power screwdriver to save time and get a tight fit. Make
sure all of these hex screws are firmly seated. (See Diagram 17 on page 8)
Diagram 16:
Insert Long Side of Back Box/Driver
Assembly into Drywall First
Page 8 Starlet Owner’s Manual
Diagram 17:
Exploded View of Installation
Starlet Owner’s Manual Page 9
INSTALLATION IN A 2x6 OR DEEPER WALL
A Foam Support Block is provided in the Accessory Pack. This simple block helps
keep the Back Box/Driver Assembly from falling into the wall cavity of a 2x6 wall
while the speaker is being installed. Peel the tape off the foam block and place it
onto the back of the Back Box/Driver Assembly on any location near the top.
(See Diagram 18)
With the Foam Support Block installed, follow the steps described under
“INSTALLATION IN A 2x4 STUD WALL” on page 7.
Diagram 18:
Foam Block Installation
GRILLE INSTALLATION
The grille assembly consists of the metal grille section, backed by a “scrim” cloth,
and two plastic end caps. Due to its length, it is best to carefully and slowly
push the grille as it is eased into position. When applying pressure, we highly
recommend starting at the ends and then working your way towards the
center. Inserting the grille from one end to the other is not recommended.
(See Diagram 19)
Diagram 19:
Grille Installation
PAINTING THE STARLETS
If you plan to paint your Starlets, we recommend that it be done prior to installation. If you decide to paint them sometime in
the future, it is best to remove the Starlets by simply reversing the steps for “SPEAKER INSTALLATION” on pages 6-9.
When painting the Starlets, the paint masks provided in the carton must be installed in place of the grille. The grilles can also be
painted, however, great care should be taken not to clog the holes, as this will greatly reduce the sound quality of the speakers.
Before painting the grilles, remove the under grille material. Put this material back into place once the grille has been painted.
SpeakerCraft recommends only light spray painting, using 5 parts thinning agent to 1 part paint. Do not paint grilles while they
are attached to the speaker. If it is necessary to paint the under grille material, follow the same procedure used to paint the grilles.
Page 10 Starlet Owner’s Manual
SPEAKER ADJUSTMENTS
STARLET 4 ADJUSTMENTS
They Starlet 4 does not require any special woofer or tweeter adjustments.
STARLETS 6 and 9 LEVEL ADJUSTMENTS
Even experienced listeners have a difficult time adjusting the bi-amp levels for the Starlets 6 and 9 by ear, so SpeakerCraft has
developed a simple procedure for setting the level of the high and low frequency sections. When adjusted in this way, the
sound suddenly gains focus and resolution.
The basic procedure consists of using a noise source, specifically pink noise, and adjusting the woofer and tweeter levels using
an AC Voltmeter across the amplifier speaker outputs or the speaker inputs. Most installers should have both of these items,
but if not, SCT-1.0 Starlet Calibration Tools may be purchased separately. The SCT-1.0 is available in two configurations: as a kit
consisting of an appropriate voltmeter and a custom Test CD with a pink noise band or as a stand-alone Test CD. (See Page 2)
Procedure: After obtaining a pink noise source, which in most cases will be a test CD, set the master volume of the system to a
very low level, so that you can hear that the noise is running. Set the trim pot on the woofer channel of the amplifier to “0” (full
counter clockwise), and the tweeter level to “Max” (full clockwise). With your meter on the tweeter channel, turn the master
volume to get a reading of 1.75 volts on the Starlet 6 or 3.75 volts on the Starlet 9. Move the meter leads to the woofer channel
and advance the trim pot clockwise until you get a reading of 0.5 volts. (See Diagram 20)
Diagram 20:
Starlets 6 and 9 Level Adjustments
Starlet Owner’s Manual Page 11
A few notes, based on our experience:
1. It is best to set these levels on recessed volume controls, such as those on the SpeakerCraft BB series of amplifiers, as this
adjustment is a one time, “set and forget” procedure.
2. All pink noise should be identical, but it isn’t. The noise on SpeakerCraft’s SCT-1.0 Test CD is known to work well in setting
the levels.
3. Digital voltmeters can be problematic with pink noise. This is because pink noise “pumps” up and down a few dB and, even
with an averaging meter, it can be hard to set the level to a medium of 0.5. For instance, we get readings of 0.45 to 0.55
when the level is set correctly. Also, many AC DMM’s do not have a low voltage range.
4. Radio Shack has a low cost ($24.95) voltmeter that has a 10 volt AC range, and works very well in this application.
SUBWOOFER ADJUSTMENTS
All Starlets are designed for high end systems where subwoofers are required. Unlike the
midrange and tweeter settings, each room is so different in bass response that it is best to
set the controls by ear. Here is our recommended starting point, based on the controls for
SpeakerCraft’s BassX-10 and BassX-12 subwoofers:
Start with the volume control at about 9 o’clock, the boost at about 10 o’clock, the
frequency control at 10 o’clock and the phase control at 0˚. (See Diagram 21) Slowly
advance the volume until you hear a good balance. Here it helps to take the time to listen to several tracks in several locations in a room. If it is not possible to get bass without
excess “boominess”, rotate the boost back counterclockwise. If there are areas of the room
where the bass seems to totally drop out, experiment by moving the phase to 180˚.
Subwoofer Adjustments
Diagram 21:
SPECIFICATIONS
Starlet 4 Starlet 6 Starlet 9
Configuration: 4 Woofer / 4 Tweeter 6 Woofer / 6 Tweeter 9 Woofer / 9 Tweeter
Line Source System Line Source System Line Source System
Woofers: 61⁄2" Kevlar Cone Woofers 61⁄2" Kevlar Cone Woofers 61⁄2" Kevlar Cone Woofers
with Front Mounted with Front Mounted with Front Mounted
Neodymium Magnets Neodymium Magnets Neodymium Magnets
Tweeters: 41⁄2" x 3⁄4" Ribbon Tweeters 41⁄2" x 3⁄4" Ribbon Tweeters 41⁄2" x 3⁄4" Ribbon Tweeters
Coaxially Mounted Coaxially Mounted Coaxially Mounted
Enclosure: Sealed Back Box with an Sealed Back Box with an Sealed Back Box with an
Extruded Wave Guide Extruded Wave Guide Extruded Wave Guide
Impedance: 6Ω Nominal 6Ω Nominal 6Ω Nominal
Sensitivity: 90dB 1W/1m 91dB 1W/1m 92dB 1W/1m
Frequency Response: 90Hz - 21kHz ± 2dB 90Hz - 21kHz ± 2dB 90Hz - 21kHz ± 2dB
Min. Power Requirements: 2 x 75 watts per speaker 2 x 75 watts per speaker 2 x 75 watts per speaker
Grille Frame Dimensions: H 363⁄4" x W 91⁄4" x D 31⁄4" H 521⁄4" x W 91⁄4" x D 31⁄4" H 763⁄16" x W 91⁄4" x D 31⁄4"
Cut-Out Dimensions: H 341⁄4" x W 8" H 491⁄2" x W 8" H 73" x W 8"
Weight: 33 lbs 46 lbs 66 lbs
In our attempt to constantly improve our products, features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Page 12 Starlet Owner’s Manual
LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY
SpeakerCraft Inc. warrants to the original retail purchaser only that this SpeakerCraft product will be free from defects in materials and
workmanship, provided the speaker was purchased from a SpeakerCraft Authorized Dealer.
Defective products must be shipped, together with proof of purchase, prepaid insured to the SpeakerCraft Authorized Dealer from whom they
were purchased, or to the SpeakerCraft factory at the address listed on this installation instruction manual. Freight collect shipments will be
refused. It is preferable to ship this product in the original shipping container to lessen the chance of transit damage. In any case, the risk or loss
or damage in transit is to be borne by the purchaser. If, upon examination at the Factory or SpeakerCraft Authorized Dealer, it is determined
that the unit was defective in materials or workmanship at any time during this warranty period, SpeakerCraft or the SpeakerCraft Authorized
Dealer will, at its option, repair or replace this product at no additional charge, except as set forth below. If this model is no longer available and
can not be repaired effectively, SpeakerCraft, at its sole option, may replace the unit with a current model of equal or greater value. In some
cases where a new model is substituted, a modification to the mounting surface may be required. If mounting surface modification is required,
SpeakerCraft assumes no responsibility or liability for such modification. All replaced parts and product become the property of SpeakerCraft Inc.
Products replaced or repaired under this warranty will be returned to the original retail purchaser, within a reasonable time, freight prepaid.
This Warranty does not include service or parts to repair damage caused by accident, disaster, misuse, abuse, negligence, inadequate packing
or shipping procedures, commercial use, voltage inputs in excess of the rated maximum of the unit, or service, repair or modification of the
product which has not been authorized or approved by SpeakerCraft. This Warranty also excludes normal cosmetic deterioration caused by
environmental conditions. This Warranty will be void if the Serial Number on the product has been removed, tampered with or defaced.
This Warranty is in lieu of all other expressed warranties. If the product is defective in materials or workmanship as warranted above, the
purchaser’s sole remedy shall be repair or replacement as provided above. In no event will SpeakerCraft be liable for any incidental or consequential damages arising out of the use or inability to use the product, even if SpeakerCraft Inc. or a SpeakerCraft Inc. Authorized Dealer has
been advised of the possibility of such damages, or for any claim by any other party. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
consequential damages, so the above limitation and exclusion may not apply.
All implied warranties on the product are limited to the duration of this expressed Warranty. Some states do not allow limitation on the length
of an implied warranty. If the original retail purchaser resides in such a state, this limitation does not apply.
CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
Should you have any questions regarding this, or any other SpeakerCraft product, please call our toll-free service hotline at
1-800-448-0976. We are available to assist you every weekday, except holidays, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. PST.
SpeakerCraft offers a variety of accessories to make your installation of this and other SpeakerCraft products easy, economical, and
professional. Contact your authorized SpeakerCraft Dealer for more information.
940 Columbia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507
(800) 448-0976 Fax (951) 787-8747
www.speakercraft.com
SpeakerCraft
LIT89400(rev1)
®
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