M-Audio LX4 Speaker System User Manual


 
Placing the Speakers - LX4-5.1 Expander
Placing the speakers is one of the most important procedures in order to
monitor sound accurately. To monitor with the LX4s performing to their
maximum capability, an appropriate listening environment and correct placement
are required. Please refer to the following for correct LX4-5.1 placement.
1. The Center Speaker -
For best directional effect, try to have the center
speaker at the same height as the L & R speakers.The front of the center speaker
should also be aligned with, or slightly behind the L & R speakers.Avoid having it
forward of the left and right speakers.
2. The SL & SR Speakers - Properly conveying both directional effects and
diffuse ambience requires an evenly distributed surround sound field comprising
both directional and reflected sound.This is achieved in movie theatres by means
of many direct-radiating surround speakers (typically ten of twenty) along the
sides and rear of the auditorium.Listening tests have also confirmed that it is the
side speakers that contribute the spaciousness or “openness” associated with
good surround sound.Theatres use speakers at the rear only because without
them, the surround sound field would appear to be in front of, rather than
around, those seated in the back rows. In monitoring environments, just two
surround speakers, one to each side, are usually enough to achieve proper
results. Too much direct sound from the surround speakers can make their
location too obvious, or create an earphone-like,“in-the-head” sound image.On
the other hand, too much diffusion may disperse the image such that it utterly
directionless seemingly everywhere at once. Finding the right balance of direct
and reflected sound means considering speaker placement,room design, and the
acoustics characteristics of both.
• Location - If it is possible, place surround speakers to either side of
sitting position.
• Height - If space permits, install surrounds 2-3 feet above sitting position.
This helps to minimize localization effects.
• Aiming - Aiming surround straight across the room, not down at sitting
position, helps create a more open, spacious surround sound field.
Experiment with placement until surround sounds seem to envelop you, rather
than coming from behind.As a general rule, do not aim the surround speakers
directly at the sitting position.
Remarks: DO NOT place any obstacles that may block the flow of air in
front or between the LX4s monitors. Also remove reflective materials such
as glass, mirrors or metal from the monitoring environment. PLACE THOSE
MATERIALS AWAY FROM THE PATH OF THE SOUND FROM THE LX4s.
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