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AMC550mp OPERATION AND USE
One of the best features of the AMC550mp is that it can be switched between “Direct” and
“Diffuse” radiation modes. The surround mode switch is conveniently located under the grille
to allow easy access. See Diagram for toggle switch location. Refer to the switch diagram and
the figures to determine the appropriate setting. You should take some time and experiment
to best adapt the speaker to your listening habits.
The diffuse mode is preferable when the listener should not be able to localize the sound
source. This should be perceived as “wall-of-sound”. Music with side channels encoded with
hall effects will produce a feeling of envelopment. Surround encoded baseball games will be
heard as if the stadium were all around, with no clear source of off-the-field, realism-
enhancing effects.
Both music and movies will have instances when either “direct” or “diffuse” surround sound
will suit. Music recordings with musicians in the side channels will most likely sound best in
“direct” mode. However, if the side channels are used to record the performance environment
or audience sounds, the “diffuse” mode may be best.
Similarly, with movie soundtracks, some producers will use side channels to pan discrete
sources off screen (e.g., jet fly-bys, etc.). This material will be well-served with the “direct”
mode. Other movies will use the side channels to transport you to a remote environment with
street noises, crowd noises, etc. These may be best reproduced in “diffuse” mode.
PREPARING FOR INSTALLATION
Preparing for Installation
Map out the wiring paths from the speakers to the amplifier. We recommend 16-gauge wire
for runs up to 25 feet, and 14-gauge or thicker for longer runs. Be sure the speaker wire does
not rest or rub against any sharp or pointed objects.
The speakers should be mounted on a flat surface to form a good seal between the speaker
flange and the mounting surface.
Each speaker is 8 ohms nominal. When connecting more than two speakers per amplifier
channel, you should use series/parallel wiring or line transformers. In all cases, make certain
that the total impedance does not fall below the amplifier’s minimum rating. If you are not
sure, contact your Snell Acoustics dealer.
You Will Need
1. A utility knife, an electric jigsaw, or another means of cutting a hole in the mounting
surface.
2. Phillips screwdriver.
3. A wire cutter or stripper for preparing the speaker wires.
4. An awl or a small screwdriver to remove the speaker grille.
With the hardware supplied, the speaker can be installed in existing walls and ceilings from
1
⁄2" (12mm) to 1
1
⁄2" (38mm) thick. For thinner walls, you will need to use spacers (not
provided) for the mounting bracket. In walls greater than 1
1
⁄2" (38mm) thick, you will need
longer screws.