Amate Audio KEY Series User manual

KEY8 / KEY10 / KEY12 / KEY15 / KEY15W / KEY18W
Pol.Ind.Norte-Perpinyà,25
08226 TERRASSA (Barcelona-SPAIN)
Copyright © 2016 [email protected]
All rights reserved www.amateaudio.com
Sept 16
User’s manual / Manual usuario

Amate Audio
KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
2
ENGLISH
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. General
Amate Audio would like to thank you for your confidence in our KEY Series. We
suggest you to read the following instructions carefully in order to obtain the best
performance.
1.2. Features and presentation
KEY8
- Two-way Full Range Speaker System
- 8" woofer with kevlar cone and 1.5” voice coil
- 1" titanium diaphragm neodymium tweeter
- Accurate designed crossover to achieve the best performance
- 240W musical program
- Sensitivity: 93 dB (1W/1m)
KEY10
- Two-way Full Range Speaker System
- 10" woofer with 2” voice coil
- 1” kevlar diaphragm driver
- 70º (H) x 40º (V) dispersion horn
- Accurate designed crossover to achieve the best performance
- 300W musical program
- Sensitivity: 95 dB (1W/1m)
KEY12
- Two-way Full Range Speaker System
- 12" woofer with 2” voice coil
- 1” kevlar diaphragm driver
- 70º (H) x 40º (V) dispersion horn
- Accurate designed crossover to achieve the best performance
- 400W musical program
- Sensitivity: 97 dB (1W/1m)
KEY15
- Two-way Full Range Speaker System
- 15" woofer with 2.5” voice coil
- 1” kevlar diaphragm driver
- 70º (H) x 40º (V) dispersion horn
- Accurate designed crossover to achieve the best performance
- 500W musical program
- Sensitivity: 98 dB (1W/1m)

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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KEY15W
- Low frequency reinforcement unit
- 15" woofer with 3” voice coil
- 600W musical program
- Sensitivity: 95 dB (1W/1m)
- Passive-parallel or bi-amplified use with KEY8/KEY10/KEY12
KEY18W
- Low frequency reinforcement unit
- 18" woofer with 4” voice coil
- 1000W musical program
- Sensitivity: 97 dB (1W/1m)
- Passive-parallel or bi-amplified use with KEY8/KEY10/KEY12/KEY15
2. CONNECTIONS
2.1. Connection description
(1)-SPEAKON: All models use two Speakon
terminals and are duly prepared for a perfect
connection in a parallel system. Terminal pins +1/-
1 must be always used, disregarding the +2/-2
which are not internally connected.
WARNING: It is strongly recommended to use a
two-conductor high quality wire, non-shielded and
two-coloured. We recommend using a minimum
section of 4mm2for each conductor. Avoid long
wire distances as they induce to important power
and quality losses
Fig.1. KEY (passive) connectors
2.2. Configurations
2.2.1. Full Range Stereo
configuration
Connect each output of the
amplifier LEFT/RIGHT to
each cabinet using two
independent wires.
Fig.2. Full range stereo
configuration

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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2.2.2. Full Range Parallel
configuration
Connect the amplifier's output to
the Speakon’s input of the first
cabinet, always respecting the
polarity positive +1, negative -1.
Then, make a bridge from the first
cabinet to the second one. This
configuration allows you to connect
up to four cabinets to the same
amplifier.
Fig.3. Full range parallel configuration
2.2.3. Passive configuration with Subwoofer
There will be times when you will be
interested in reinforcing your KEY
systems with subwoofer units, in passive
mode. In this case only one amplifier will
be used for the whole system.
Connect one of the outputs of the
amplifier to the subwoofer through a wire.
Then, make a bridge from the slave
Speakon connector of the subwoofer to its
respective mid-high top unit, always
respecting the correct polarity between
both systems. Do the same with the other
channel. It is also correct, if the
installation requires so, to make the
connection in the opposite way, that is,
from the amplifier to the satellite and then
to the subwoofer.
Note: when using this configuration, make
sure to use a LPF (Low pass filter) on the
subwoofer unit (refer to “LPF12
accessory”).
Fig.4. Passive with subwoofer configuration

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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2.2.4. Bi-Amplified configuration with Subwoofer
A wire with the maximum available
section (4mm2minimum) should
link the low frequencies output
channel of the amplifier to one of
the subwoofers. Two subwoofers
can be also connected by bridge
one to another, as long as the
polarity is strictly respected.
Connect the other output of the
amplifier to the Full Range
cabinets.
Note: when using this
configuration, make sure to use a
LPF (Low pass filter) on the
subwoofer units (refer to “LPF12
accessory”).
Fig.5. Bi-amplified with subwoofer configuration (option 1)
It is also possible to use only one
amplifier for the low
reinforcement units, connecting
each one of the subwoofers to
the two outputs of the amplifier
and consequently, connecting the
Full Range cabinets to a second
amplifier.
Note: when using this
configuration, make sure to use
an external DSP with a low pass
filter for the subwoofer units and
a high pass filter for the full-range
cabinets.
Fig.6. Bi-amplified with subwoofer configuration (option 2)

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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WARNING!!!!: In order to allow a bridge connection between cabinets, each one of
them has been provided with two Speakon connectors that allow the Input / Output
function indistinctly. Terminal pins +1/-1 must be always used, disregarding the +2/-2
which are not internally connected.
3. MOUNTING AND PLACEMENT
For a proper installation of the acoustic cabinets, it is strongly recommended to read
carefully the following advices.
3.1. Placement
The Full Range cabinets should be located in a high
position (between two or three meters), slightly inclined to
the audience. If the loudspeakers are located too low, the
listeners at the end of the room will not hear a good sound
quality.
Fig.7. Flying placement
It is advisable to locate the subwoofer units on the floor as they can take advantage
of the so-called “floor-effect”, thus increasing the response in the low frequencies.
If possible, place the subwoofers under the same acoustic axis used for the satellites.
If the above option cannot be carried out, then they should be placed in an
intermediate point between the left and right channels.
3.2. Tripod use
The KEY8, KEY10, KEY12 and KEY15
models are equipped with a tripod socket
(A) for use with a standard 35mm tripod.
Do not use the tripod on non-flat floors
and be careful not to raise the cabinet too
high on the tripod, as it may become
unstable.
Fig.8. Full range cabinet with tripod

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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3.3. Full range cabinet with subwoofer
The KEY15W and KEY18W are
equipped with a M20 Plate (A) for a
35mm distance rod. You can use it
to place over the subwoofer the
models that are equipped with the
tripod socket (KEY8, KEY10,
KEY12 and KEY15). Be careful not
to use this system on non-flat
surfaces as it may become
unstable.
Fig.9. Full range cabinet with subwoofer
3.4. Live applications (mobile)
For a mobile application, whether it is an
outdoor or indoor installation, the common
location is to place the bass units (one or
two per channel) on each side of the stage.
Fig.10. Mobile applications
To obtain a clear and free-distortion
reproduction, it is advisable to place the
mid-high units on top of the low units keeping between them an approximate height of
two meters. If such height cannot be achieved nor maintained, it is advisable to use
the classical tripod for each mid-high cabinet and leave the low units on the floor.
WARNING!!! For installations that suffer from acoustic problems and in which it is
necessary to reinforce the response in the low frequencies, it is advisable to group all
the subwoofers together in the same point. By this way, cancellations will be avoided
and a higher acoustic pressure level will be obtained.

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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3.5. Stage monitor use
The KEY10, KEY12 and KEY15 models
have trapezoidal shape so, they can be
used as floor monitors without extra
accessories.
Fig.11. Stage monitor use
3.6. Rotatable logo
KEY8, KEY10, KEY12, KEY15, KEY15W and KEY18W model logos can be rotated.
3.7. Flying
Only experienced people should fly speaker cabinets. Extreme care should be taken
to assure the load bearing capabilities of the structures where the cabinets will be
placed. Hanging hardware (as chains, eyebolts, lock pins...) should be regularly
inspected and replaced if in doubt.
WARNING!!! DO NOT SUSPEND THE CABINETS FROM THE HANDLES!!!!
3.7.1. KEY8, KEY10, KEY12 and KEY15 horizontal flying with “U-BL” bracket
The UB-L is an optional accessory for wall mounting (horizontal orientation). Please,
refer to “UB-L user’s manual” to get more information.
Fig.12. UB-L wall-stand

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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3.7.2. KEY8, KEY10, KEY12 and KEY15 flying with ACR-M8 eyebolts
These models provide
several M8 flying points.
Their correct use will
permit the flying in
horizontal or vertical
position.
Fig.13. KEY8 rigging
points
Fig.14. KEY10 rigging points

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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Fig.15. KEY12 rigging points
Fig.16. KEY15 rigging points

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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KEY8
KEY12
KEY15
Horizontal flying
2&5 or 3&6 or 9&10 or 11&12 (front rigging points)
1&4 or 7&8 (back tilt points)
Vertical Flying
2&3 or 5&6 or 9&11 or 10&12 (front rigging points)
1 or 4 or 7 or 8 (back tilt points)
KEY10
Horizontal flying
2&5 or 3&6 or 8&9 or 10&11 (front rigging points)
1&4 (back tilt points)
Vertical Flying
2&3 or 5&6 or 8&10 or 9&11 (front rigging points)
1 or 4 or 7 (back tilt points)
We offer as optional accessory the ACR M8 eyebolt.
3.7.3. KEY8, KEY10, KEY12 and KEY15 flying with SP35 wall stand
These models may be wall mounted by the SP35 wall stand accessory.
Fig.17. SP35 wall stand
Mounting:
1- Hold the wall stand against the mounting surface, so you can mark the locations of
the mounting holes
2- Drill corresponding pilot holes on the wall and attach the bracket with screws
3- Set the cabinet on the 35mm pole
4- Adjust the cabinet for desired angle
3.7.4. KEY8, KEY10, KEY12 and KEY15 vertical flying with “HR” bar
Use HR-C or HR-C/GT flying bar for KEY8
Use HR-S or HR-S/GT flying bar for KEY10
Use HR-L or HR-L/GT flying bar for KEY12
Use HR-L or HR-L/GT flying bar for KEY15

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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Fig.18. “HR” flying bar for KEY cabinets
For more information refer to “HR-XX” user’s manual.
3.7.5. KEY15W and KEY18W flying
These models are not prepared for flying.
3.8. KEY grille
To remove the front grille, first remove the screws on the left side.
Fig.19. Grille screws

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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4. TECHNICAL FEATURES
KEY8
KEY10
Impedance
16
8
Sensitivity (1W/1m)
93 dB
95 dB
Frequency response
(-10dB)
62Hz-20kHz
55Hz-18kHz
Program power
240W
300W
Directivity
90º x 90º
70º x 40º
Components
LF
1 x 8” woofer
1 x 10” woofer
HF
1 x 1” neodymium tweeter,
titanium diaphragm
1 x 1” kevlar diaphragm
driver
Cabinet
Type
Bass-reflex
Height
450 mm
535 mm
Width
295 mm
365 mm
Depth
280 mm
341 mm
Weight (net)
9,5 Kg
13,5 Kg
Connectors
2 x Speakon (In/Link)
Material
Multilayer plywood, steel front grille with acoustic foam
Finish
Ecological water-base matt paint
KEY12
KEY15
Impedance
8
Sensitivity (1W/1m)
97 dB
98 dB
Frequency response
(-10dB)
50Hz-18kHz
48Hz-18kHz
Program power
400W
500W
Directivity
70º x 40º
70º x 40º
Components
LF
1 x 12” woofer
1 x 15” woofer
HF
1 x 1” kevlar diaphragm driver
Cabinet
Type
Bass-reflex
Height
608 mm
688 mm
Width
420 mm
474 mm
Depth
405 mm
440 mm
Weight (net)
18,7 Kg
21,9 Kg
Connectors
2 x Speakon (In/Link)
Material
Multilayer plywood, steel front grille with acoustic foam
Finish
Ecological water-base matt paint

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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KEY15W
KEY18W
Impedance
8
Sensitivity (1W/1m)
95 dB
97 dB
Frequency response
(-10dB)
38Hz-180Hz (with
external DSP)
34Hz-150Hz (with external DSP)
Program power
600W
1000W
Directivity
omnidirectional
omnidirectional
Components
LF
1 x 15” woofer (3” v.c.)
1 x 18” woofer (4” v.c)
Cabinet
Type
Bass-reflex
Height
600 mm
700 mm
Width
490 mm
550 mm
Depth
520 mm
605 mm
Weight (net)
27,1 Kg
39,9 Kg
Connectors
2 x Speakon (In/Link)
Material
Multilayer plywood, steel front grille with acoustic foam
Finish
Ecological water-base matt paint
5. POWER LOSSES (%) AND DAMPING FACTOR, RELATED TO WIRE LENGTH
AND SECTION
(*) Referred to an amplifier with a Damping Factor of 200:1. Wire sections under
2.50 mm2are completely inadvisable.
For fixed installations with a 4-Ohm load, it is better to have one wire for each
speaker system. It is not advisable to bridge one cabinet to another.
Wire length
(m)
Section
(mm2)
Resistance
(Ohms)
Power losses
8Ohms 4Ohms 2Ohms
Damping losses(*)
8 Ohms 4 Ohms
1
0.75
0.042
0.53%
1.05%
2.10%
98
49
1.50
0.025
0.31%
0.63%
1.25%
123
62
2.50
0.013
0.16%
0.33%
0.65%
151
75
4.00
0.008
0.10%
0.20%
0.40%
167
83
5
0.75
0.210
2.63%
5.25%
10.5%
32
16
1.50
0.125
1.56%
3.13%
6.25%
48
24
2.50
0.065
0.81%
1.63%
3.25%
76
38
4.00
0.040
0.50%
1.00%
2.00%
100
50
10
0.75
0.420
5.25%
10.50%
21.00%
17
9
1.75
0.250
3.13%
6.25%
12.50%
28
14
2.50
0.130
1.63%
3.25%
6.50%
47
24
4.00
0.080
1.00%
2.00%
4.00%
67
33
20
0.75
0.840
10.50%
21.00%
42.00%
9
5
1.50
0.500
6.25%
12.50%
25.00%
15
7
2.50
0.260
3.25%
6.50%
13.00%
27
13
4.00
0.160
2.00%
4.00%
8.00%
40
20
50
0.75
2.100
26.25%
52.50%
---
4
2
1.50
1.250
15.63%
31.25%
62.50%
6
3
2.50
0.650
8.13%
16.25%
32.50%
12
6
4.00
0.400
5.00%
10.00%
20.00%
18
9

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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ESPAÑOL
1. INTRODUCCIÓN
1.1. Generalidades
Amate Audio le agradece la confianza depositada en nuestros productos de la Serie
KEY. Le sugerimos lea atentamente las indicaciones que a continuación exponemos,
confiando en que le serán de gran utilidad para obtener sus mejores resultados.
1.2. Características y presentación
KEY8
- Sistema de 2 vías Full Range
- Altavoz de 8" con cono de kevlar y bobina de 1,5”
- Tweeter exponencial de 1" de neodimio, con diafragma de titanio
- Filtro divisor pasivo diseñado con precisión para obtener los mejores resultados
- 240W de programa musical
- Sensibilidad de 93 dB (1W/1m)
KEY10
- Sistema de 2 vías Full Range
- Altavoz de 10" con bobina de 2”
- Motor de agudos de 1” con diafragma de kevlar
- Difusor de dispersión 70º (H) x 40º (V)
- Filtro divisor pasivo diseñado con precisión para obtener los mejores resultados
- 300W de programa musical
- Sensibilidad de 95 dB (1W/1m)
KEY12
- Sistema de 2 vías Full Range
- Altavoz de 12" con bobina de 2”
- Motor de agudos de 1” con diafragma de kevlar
- Difusor de dispersión 70º (H) x 40º (V)
- Filtro divisor pasivo diseñado con precisión para obtener los mejores resultados
- 400W de programa musical
- Sensibilidad de 97 dB (1W/1m)
KEY15
- Sistema de 2 vías Full Range
- Altavoz de 15" con bobina de 2,5”
- Motor de agudos de 1” con diafragma de kevlar
- Difusor de dispersión 70º (H) x 40º (V)
- Filtro divisor pasivo diseñado con precisión para obtener los mejores resultados
- 500W de programa musical
- Sensibilidad de 98 dB (1W/1m)

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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KEY15W
- Refuerzo de bajas frecuencias
- Altavoz de 15" con bobina de 3”
- 600W de programa musical
- Sensibilidad de 95 dB (1W/1m)
- Fácil utilización en pasivo-paralelo / bi-amplificado con KEY8/KEY10/KEY12
KEY18W
- Refuerzo de bajas frecuencias
- Altavoz de 18" con bobina de 4”
- 1000W de programa musical
- Sensibilidad de 97 dB (1W/1m)
- Fácil utilización en pasivo-paralelo / bi-amplificado con KEY8/KEY10/KEY12/KEY15
2. CONEXIONES
2.1. Descripción conexionado
(1)-SPEAKON: Todos los modelos incorporan dos
terminales Speakon NL4 y están preparados para su
perfecta conexión en un sistema en paralelo. La señal
de entrada/salida es mediante los pins +1/-1. Los pins
+2/-2 no están conectados internamente.
ATENCIÓN: Utilice en lo posible cable-manguera de
dos conductores, sin apantallar, bicolor y de buena
calidad. Se recomienda el uso de una sección de
4mm2como mínimo para cada conductor. Evítense
largas distancias de cableado ya que provocan
importantes pérdidas de potencia y calidad.
Fig.1. Conexiones para serie KEY pasiva
2.2. Configuraciones
2.2.1. Configuración
Full Range Estéreo
Conectar cada salida del
amplificador
LEFT/RIGHT a cada
unidad, mediante dos
mangueras,
independientemente.
Fig.2. Configuración Full
range estéreo

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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2.2.2. Configuración Full Range en Paralelo
Conectar una primera caja desde la
salida del amplificador a su entrada de
Speakon, respetando siempre la
polaridad positivo +1, negativo -1. A
continuación, realizar un puente
mediante manguera, desde esta
primera caja a la segunda. Con esta
configuración podrá conectar, por
ejemplo, cuatro cajas a un mismo
amplificador.
Fig.3. Configuración Full range en paralelo
2.2.3. Configuración en Pasivo con Subwoofer
Muchas veces le interesará reforzar sus
sistemas KEY full range mediante
unidades subwoofer de la misma serie,
tanto en activo como en pasivo.
En el caso pasivo, se dispondrá de un
sólo amplificador para todo el sistema. De
una de las salidas del amplificador
conectar, mediante cable manguera, la
unidad de graves.
Posteriormente, efectuar un puente desde
el conector Speakon esclavo del
subwoofer a su respectiva unidad satélite
de medios-agudos, respetando siempre la
correcta polaridad entre ambos sistemas.
Proceder de igual manera para el otro
canal. También es correcto, si la
instalación lo requiere, efectuar la
conexión a la inversa, es decir, del
amplificador al satélite y luego al
subwoofer.
Fig.4. Configuración en pasivo con subwoofer
Recuerde que en esta configuración será necesario colocar un filtro paso-bajo en las
unidades subwoofer. Consulte el accesorio “LPF12”.

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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2.2.4. Configuración Bi-Amplificada con Subwoofer
Del canal de salida de la etapa de potencia destinada a graves saldremos con una
manguera de la mayor sección
posible (4mm2mínimo) hacia uno
de los subwoofers. Si se dispone
de pareja de subwoofers,
realizaremos una conexión en
puente entre ambos, respetando
siempre la polaridad.
Conectar la otra salida del
amplificador independientemente
a la caja de medios-agudos. Si se
dispone de pareja de cajas,
realizaremos una conexión en
puente entre ambas, respetando
siempre la polaridad.
Recuerde que en esta
configuración será necesario
colocar un filtro paso-bajo en las
unidades subwoofer. Consulte el
accesorio “LPF12”.
Fig.5. Configuración bi-amplificada con subwoofer (opción 1)
También es posible destinar un
sólo amplificador para los
refuerzos de graves, conectando
cada uno de los subwoofers a las
dos salidas de la etapa y en
consecuencia, alimentar el
sistema de medios-agudos
mediante un segundo
amplificador.
Recuerde que en esta
configuración será necesario
insertar en el procesador (DSP)
un filtro paso-bajo en las unidades
subwoofer y un filtro paso-alto en
las unidades de medios-agudos.
Fig.6. Configuración bi-amplificada con subwoofer (opción 2)

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¡ATENCIÓN!!!!: Para efectuar un puente entre cajas, cada una de ellas dispone de
dos conectores idénticos Speakon que hacen la función de Entrada / Salida
indistintamente. Siempre deben utilizarse los terminales pin +1/-1, despreciando los
terminales +2/-2 que no están conectados internamente.
3. MONTAJE E INSTALACIÓN
Para la adecuada instalación de los sistemas de cajas acústicas se recomienda lea
atentamente los siguientes consejos.
3.1. Posicionamiento
Siempre que sea posible coloque las unidades Full
Range en posición elevada (entre dos y tres metros
del suelo), ligeramente inclinadas hacia la audiencia.
Si las cajas se colocan a una altura cercana al suelo
los oyentes de las últimas filas recibirán un sonido de
baja calidad.
Fig.7. Posicionamiento en formato volado
Para posicionar las unidades de graves, es recomendable que éstas estén colocadas
en el suelo ya que así se aprovecha, de forma natural, el llamado "efecto-suelo"
incrementando notoriamente la respuesta en bajas frecuencias.
Le aconsejamos coloque siempre que sea posible las unidades de graves bajo el
mismo eje acústico de los satélites. Si esto no es posible deberían situarse en un
punto intermedio entre los canales Izquierdo y Derecho.
3.2. Uso con trípode
Los modelos KEY8, KEY10, KEY12 y
KEY15 incorporan en su parte inferior
un vaso para trípode estándar de
35mm.
No utilice el trípode en superficies con
pendiente, ni coloque la caja
demasiado alta, pues el sistema
puede ser totalmente inestable.
Fig.8. Posicionamiento con trípode

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KEY Series (Passive). Version 1.2 Sept16
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3.3. Utilización sobre subwoofer
Los modelos KEY15W y KEY18W
incorporan integrado en su parte
superior una pletina para cilindro de
35mm (diámetro de un trípode
estándar). Así podemos colocar de
forma elevada sistemas acústicos
que vayan provistos del vaso
inferior para trípode (KEY8, KEY10,
KEY12, KEY15). Evite colocar
sistemas montados de esta forma
en superficies inclinadas o
irregulares.
Fig.9. Posicionamiento sobre subwoofer
3.4. Uso en aplicaciones de directo (móvil)
Para una aplicación móvil, para
directo o discoteca, la ubicación
clásica sería la de situar las
unidades de graves (una ó dos por
canal) a cada lado del escenario
(sobre éste).
Fig.10. Aplicaciones de directo
Para conseguir una reproducción libre de obstáculos, se recomienda coloque las
unidades de medios-agudos por encima de las unidades de graves, a unos dos
metros de altura.
Si no se dispone de esta altura, es conveniente utilizar el clásico trípode para cada
caja y dejar las cajas de graves en el suelo.