SAFE LIMITS OF OPERATION
Polk Audio specifies the recommended amplification range
for each of its passive (non-amplified) loudspeakers. Typically
that specification will be expressed as a range of power such
as 20-200 Watts(per channel). It is importantto understand
what those numbers mean when choosing a receiver or
amplifier for your Polk loudspeakers. The lower number
indicates the lowest continuous rated power that will yield
acceptable performance in a typical listening environment.
The higher number indicates the highest per channel power
that should be used with your Polk speakers. That number
should not be confused with a “Power Handling” specifica-
tion and it does not imply that the speaker will safely handle
that full amount of power on a long-term basis. We specify
a
wide range of power ratings because not all electronics
manufacturers use the same method for rating power. In
fact, high quality lower-ratedamplifiers sound better and
play louder than low quality units with higher power rating.
Automobile horsepower is good analogy. Your car probably
has far more horsepower than it needs for your daily com-
mute and is likely capable of going well over 120mph
(190km/hr). Having that extra power is good for on-ramp
acceleration and danger avoidance (like getting away from
brain-eating zombies) but that doesn’tmean that it is advis-
able to operate your car on North American highways at full
power and maximum speed for an extended period of time.
Just ask your local state trooper if you are in doubt. Similarly,
we recommend using amplifiers and receivers with rated
power above the Power Handling limits of our speakers be-
cause having extra power available for short term peaks is
conducive to better sound quality, maximum dynamic range
and effortless high volume output. But we strongly urge
you not to use the full power of your amplifier or receiver
for daily listening.
Loudspeakers can be damaged when an amplifier, regardless
of its wattage, is made to play at higher listening levels than
its power can clearly produce. Operation at this level can re-
sult in very high levels of audible distortion originating in the
amplifier,which can add a harsh,gritty sound to your listen-
ing material. If you hear distortion—turn the volume
down or risk damaging your speakers. You can damage
just about any speaker, regardless of power rating, if you
drive an amplifier to or beyond the point of distortion.
PRODUCT DISPOSAL
Certaininternational, national and/or
locallaws and/or regulations may apply
regardingthe disposal of this product.
Forfurther detailed information, please
contactthe retailer where you purchased
thisproduct or the Polk AudioImporter/
Distributorin your country.Alisting of
PolkAudio Importer/Distributors can be
foundon the Polk Audio websitewww.polkaudio.com
orby contacting Polk Audio at:5601 Metro Drive,
Baltimore,Maryland 21215, USA—Phone: +1 410358-3600.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE OR SERVICE
If,after following the hookupdirections, you experience
difficulty, pleasedouble-check all wire connections.Should
youisolate the problem tothe speaker, contactthe authorized
PolkAudio dealer where youmade your purchase, or contact
PolkAudio Customer Service 800-377-7655(M-F,9-6 EST,
US& Canada only) orvia email polkcs@polkaudio.com.
Outsidethe US & Canada,call 410-358-3600. More detailed
information—includingaudio how-to articles, FAQs,and
onlinemanuals are available onour award-winning website
www.polkaudio.com/home. Complete mounting
instructionscome with each stand.
TAKE INVENTORY
Insideeach speaker container,you should find thefollowing:
OWM5
1. (1)OWM5 L/C/R Loudspeaker
2. (1)Stand
3. (1)Foam Strip
4. (2)Adhesive-Backed Rubber Pads
5. AngledWall Mount Bracket
6. OWMSeries Manual
7. RegistrationCard
8. Wall Mount Template
OWM3
1. (2)OWM3 Surround/Satellite Loudspeakers
2. (2)Stands
3. (2)Foam Strips
4. (4)Adhesive-Backed Rubber Pads
5. OWMSeries Manual
6. RegistrationCard
7. Wall Mount Template
ImportantNote: If anything is missingor damaged, or if your
speakerfails to operate, notify PolkAudio Customer Support
Servicesimmediately at 800-377-7655.
ForMoreInformationVisitwww.polkaudio.com
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