Boston Acoustics Micro90c II User manual

System9000
The System9000 is composed of the following:
zVRS Micro
zMicro90c
zMicro90X

Micro90c
Micro90x
Micro80x
Micro Reference Series

How to Wire Your Speakers
You need to wire your speakers correctly to obtain the best sound quality and the proper
image. Wiring should just take a few minutes, but it’s important to do it carefully, since incorrect
wiring (such as reversed connections) can result in a poor soundstage or poor bass.
We recommend using 18-gauge or larger speaker wire for runs up to 25 feet (8m), and thicker
16-gauge or larger for longer runs. Strip 1⁄2" (12mm) of insulation off the ends of each speaker
cable to expose the two conductors and tightly twist the wire strands. Maintain consistency of
the +(red) and –(black) connections by using the markings on the wire.
IMPORTANT: Typically, one side of the wire is
smooth. Connect this side to the –(black) con-
nection. The other side has a rib or stripe.
Connect this to the +(red) connection.
Using the five-way binding posts: The binding
posts permit easy connection to banana plugs,
pins, spade lugs, and bare wire. The metal
surfaces are plated with 24K gold to prevent
corrosion.
Insert the wire in the hole and tighten.

Connections
WARNING: To prevent electrical shock, always switch off the amplifier or receiver when making
connections to the speaker.
Micro90c Center Channel
Connections
Connect the speaker’s terminals to the
center channel terminals on the ampli-
fier or receiver. Maintain consistency of
the +(red) and –(black) connections
by using the markings on the wire.
Micro90x and 80x Satellite
Connections
Connect the satellites to the amplifier
or receiver terminals designated for
surround or rear channel effects.
Usually, these will be labeled as “Left
Rear” and “Right Rear.” Maintain con-
sistency of the +(red) and –(black)
connections by using the markings on
the wire.
Placement
Micro90c Center Channel Placement
Place the Micro90c as close to the TV
monitor as possible, with its front panel
flush with the front of the television.
Self-adhesive rubber feet are included
with the Micro90c to protect the TV’s
finish and prevent vibration.
Micro90x and 80x Satellite Placement
For the most realistic surround
effects, place the surround speakers
so the sound is diffused around the
listening area. Avoid pointing them
directly at the listeners.
Micro90c
Rear channel
Center channel
Left Right
Receiver or amplifier
Left Micro satellite Right Micro satellite
Place the surround
satellite beside or
behind the listeners
Center channel
flush with
front of TV
5–9 ft.
(1.5–3m)
IMPORTANT: Be sure to hook +to +, –to –.

Wall-Mounting the Micro Satellites
The Micro satellites may be wall-mounted using the included keyhole bracket.
Install a #8 or #10 mounting screw on the wall (not sup-
plied–consult a knowledgeable installer regarding the
proper hardware to use on your wall).
Attach the bracket to the back of the speaker with the
machine screw and acorn nut as shown.
If you are running wires behind the wall, make a 3⁄8"
(9.5mm) wire hole, 13⁄4" (44mm) below the mounting screw
for the wire.
The speaker may be angled for optimum coverage of the
listening area.
An optional pedestal shelf stand/wall-mount bracket (Model MRB) is available for the Micro80x
that provides greater positioning flexibility. For more information, contact your dealer or
Boston Acoustics directly.
Setting Up Your Home Theater System
Volume Levels: To obtain the best home theater effect, match the sound levels of each speak-
er. Home theater systems include a test signal that simplifies this level matching. Refer to the
instructions provided with your surround sound electronics.
Center Channel Mode: Generally, with all surround systems, including Dolby®ProLogic®and
Dolby®Digital, the center channel mode should be set to “NORMAL”or “SMALL.”This setting
diverts low bass to the front left and right channels, and will result in the greatest total system
bass output. The “NORMAL”or “SMALL”center speaker setting ensures the subwoofer
receives the most bass information under all conditions. The “Phantom”setting, which presumes
you do not have a center channel speaker, should not be used.
Surround Channel Mode: If your electronics have a surround channel mode, it should also be
set to “NORMAL”or “SMALL.”This setting will divert any low bass in the surround channels to
the subwoofer.
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Specifications Micro90c Micro90x Micro80x
Frequency Response (±3dB) 100–20,000Hz 120–20,000Hz 120–20,000Hz
Recommended Amplifier Power 15–125 watts 15–125 watts 15–100 watts
Nominal Impedance 8 ohms 8 ohms 8 ohms
Sensitivity [1 watt (2.83v) at 1m] 90dB 89dB 89dB
Tweeter 1" (25mm) 1" (25mm) 3⁄4" (19mm)
aluminum dome aluminum dome dome
Bass Unit (dual) 31⁄2" (89mm) 31⁄2" (89mm) 31⁄2" (89mm)
copolymer copolymer copolymer
Crossover Frequency 2500Hz 3800Hz 4500Hz
Dimensions (HxWxD) 43⁄4x 12 x 51⁄4" 67⁄8x 41⁄4x 53⁄4"6
7⁄8x 41⁄4x 53⁄4"
(120 x 300 x 132mm) (175 x 108 x 146mm) (175 x 108 x 146mm)
Weight 11 lbs (5kg) 6 lbs ea. (3kg) 4 lbs ea. (2kg)
Finish Black Black or white Black or white
Description
Micro90c Center Channel Speaker System
The Micro90c center channel speaker system delivers exceptionally articulate on-screen dialog
and effects from a small, sleek package. Point-source driver spacing and a low crossover fre-
quency assure wide, uniform horizontal dispersion for complete coverage of the listening area.
MagnaGuard®magnetic shielding ensures the speaker’s magnetic field does not interfere with
the television’s picture.
Micro90x and 80x Satellites
Micro Reference satellites are ideally suited for use as surround speakers in a high-quality home
theater system, or as extension speakers for another room in the house. The included wall-
mount brackets make installation easy, and MagnaGuard®magnetic shielding allows placement
next to a television or computer monitor.

Listening Levels and Power-Handling
The power recommendation for the system assumes that you will operate the amplifier in a way
that will not produce distortion. Even our rugged speakers can be damaged by a modest
amplifier if it produces distortion. If you hear a harsh, gritty noise, turn down the volume.
Prolonged or repeated operation of your speaker with a distorted signal from the amplifier can
cause damage that is not covered by the warranty.
Limited Warranty
For five years from the date of purchase, Boston Acoustics will repair for the original owner any
defect in materials or workmanship that occurs in normal use of the Micro90c, Micro90x or
Micro80x speakers, without charge for parts and labor.
Your responsibilities are to use the system according to the instructions supplied, to provide
safe and secure transportation to an authorized Boston Acoustics service representative and to
present proof of purchase in the form of your sales slip when requesting service.
Excluded from this warranty is damage that results from abuse, misuse, accidents, shipping or
repairs or modifications by anyone other than an authorized Boston Acoustics service represen-
tative.
This warranty is void if the serial number has been removed or defaced.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
If Service Seems Necessary
First, contact the retailer from whom you purchased the speaker(s). If that is not possible,
write to:
Boston Acoustics, Inc., 300 Jubilee Drive, Peabody, MA 01960.
We will promptly advise you of what action to take. If it is necessary to return your speaker to
the factory, please ship it prepaid. After it has been repaired, we will return it freight prepaid in
the U.S. and Canada.
300 Jubilee Drive
Peabody, MA 01960 U.S.A.
508-538-5000
Boston, Boston Acoustics, and MagnaGuard are registered
trademarks of Boston Acoustics, Inc. Dolby, ProLogic,
and Dolby Digital are registered trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
© 1996 Boston Acoustics, Inc. All rights reserved.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
42-656-0

VRS Micro
Micro Reference Diffuse-Field
Surround Speaker System

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Specifications
Frequency Response (±3dB) 120–20,000Hz
Recommended Amplifier Power 15–100 watts
Nominal Impedance 8 ohms
Sensitivity [1 watt (2.83v) at 1m] 86dB
Full-Range Driver 31⁄2" (89mm) copolymer
High-Frequency Driver 21⁄2" (65mm) polymer-treated paper
Crossover Frequency 350Hz
Dimensions (HxWxD) 75⁄8x 37 ⁄8x 53⁄8" (194 x 98 x 137mm)
Weight/each 4 lbs (2kg)
Finish Black or white
Description
The VRS Micro is a diffuse-field surround
speaker that provides realistic rear channel
surround effects with Dolby®ProLogic®and
Dolby®Digital decoding electronics.
The VRS Micro cabinet is sculptured to aim
sound along the walls, rather than directly at
the listener, and to blend with the room’s decor.
Frequencies from 120 to 20,000Hz are han-
dled by a specially designed 31⁄2" (89mm) full-
range driver, firing toward the front of the
room. Frequencies above 350Hz are handled
by a 21⁄2" (65mm) high-frequency driver, firing
backward. Gold-plated five-way binding posts
allow the connection of virtually any speaker
cable. Straightforward mounting of the speak-
er on any wall or ceiling can be easily accom-
plished with the included brackets.

3
Diffuse Sound
In a movie theater, a diffuse surround sound
field is created by using an array of surround
speakers around the sides and rear of the
theater. Since this is not practical in the home,
a diffuse-field speaker achieves the same effect
with a single pair of speakers.
When a conventional direct-radiating speaker
is used for surround, sound is aimed directly at
the listener. Because the listener can localize
the sound, the surround effect is dramatically
reduced (above right).
The VRS Micro contains two drivers, operating
with opposite polarities—one speaker pushes
out and the other pulls in. This directs most of
the sound sideways (right). The VRS Micro gen-
erates a “figure 8” pattern above 350Hz along
the walls of the room. The sound is then reflect-
ed from the end walls, ceiling and floor before
returning to the listener as diffuse sound, which
comes from all around the listener.

4
Connecting Your VRS Micro Speakers
Connect the speaker’s terminals to those on the amplifier or receiver designated for “surround” or
“rear channel effects.” Maintain consistency of the +(red) and –(black) connections by using the
markings on the wire.
We recommend 18-gauge (or heavier) speaker wire for runs up to 25' (8m), and thicker 16-gauge
speaker wire for longer runs. Strip 1⁄2" (12mm) of insulation from the ends of each wire to expose
the conductors. Tightly twist the wire strands together. Maintain the consistency of the +(red) and
– (black) connections.
IMPORTANT: Typically, one side of the hook-up wire is ribbed and the
other is smooth. Connect the ribbed side to the +(red) terminals and
the smooth side to the –(black) terminals.
WARNING: To prevent electrical shock, always switch off the amplifier
or receiver when making connections to the speaker.
Using the five-way binding posts: The binding posts permit easy con-
nection to banana plugs, pins, spade lugs and bare wire. The metal sur-
faces are plated with 24K gold to resist corrosion.
Rear channel
Left
Front channel
Right
Center speaker
RightCenterLeft
Left speaker
Receiver or amplifier
Right speaker
Left VRS Micro Right VRS Micro

5
Room Placement
Room placement is one of the most important factors contributing to the quality of home theater
sound. Take a few minutes to place your speakers correctly to ensure they will sound their best.
If the viewing area is in a corner, the speakers may be
placed to either side on adjacent walls.
One or both of the VRS Micro speakers may be hung from
the ceiling. Make sure the arrow on the rear label points to
the front of the room.
If the listening position is against the wall, place the
speakers to either side, no less than 20" (50cm) from the
rear wall.
Place the VRS Micro speakers on either side of the
listening area.
IMPORTANT: Your speakers have been packed as a LEFT and RIGHT matched set. Make sure that each speaker is mounted
on the correct side, with the larger driver pointing to the front of the theater area. The arrow on the back of each speaker
should point toward the front of the room.

6
Listening Levels and Power-Handling
IMPORTANT: Adjusting Listening Volume–To obtain the best home theater effect, balance the
sound level of each speaker. Home theater systems contain a test signal that simplifies this proce-
dure. Refer to the instructions provided with your surround sound electronics.
The power recommendation for the speaker assumes the amplifier is not overdriven, which, over a
long period, can damage even our rugged speakers. If you hear a harsh, gritty noise, turn down the
volume control. Prolonged or repeated operation with a distorted signal from the amplifier can
cause damage to the speakers, which is not covered by the warranty.
Setting Up Your Home Theater System
Volume Levels: To obtain the best home theater effect, match the sound levels of each speaker.
Home theater systems include a test signal that simplifies this level matching. Refer to the instruc-
tions provided with your surround sound electronics.
Surround Channel Mode: If your electronics have a surround channel mode, it should be set
to “Normal”or “Small.”This setting will divert any low bass in the surround channels to the
subwoofer.
Wall- or Ceiling-Mounting Your VRS Micro Speakers
The VRS Micro is designed to be mounted directly onto a wall or ceiling. Attach the supplied
bracket to the wall or ceiling and clip the speaker to the bracket.
You may run wires to the speakers on the wall surface or behind the wall. Use the recessed area on
the back of the speaker to accommodate the wire slack.
Mounting on drywall, paneling or other hollow surfaces: Use the 6-32 x 2" machine screws and
toggle wings provided. The toggle wings require a 1⁄2" (12mm) hole.
Mounting on wood and other solid surfaces: Use a #6 or #8 wood screw.
Mounting on masonry, adobe and similar surfaces: Consult a knowledgeable installer about
proper hardware. You will obtain best results with #6 or #8 screws.
IMPORTANT: Your speakers have been packed as a LEFT and RIGHT matched set. Make sure that
each speaker is mounted on the correct side, with the larger driver pointing toward the front of the
theater area. The arrow on the back of each speaker should point toward the front.

7
Painting Your VRS Micro Speakers
You may paint the surface and grilles of your VRS Micro speakers. You will need:
•A small screwdriver or knife to remove the grilles from the cabinet
•A fast-drying primer, such as Krylon®Sandable Spray Primer #1318
•Masking tape and scrap paper, and a clean dry cloth.
To paint the cabinet:
IMPORTANT: Do not paint the red and black electrical
terminals or the black area behind the grilles.
1. Remove the grilles: Use a small screwdriver or knife to
snap open the back edge of each grille near the terminals.
2. Mask off the baffles with masking tape and scrap paper,
and wipe any dust from the cabinet.
3. Apply two thin coats of primer and let dry thoroughly.
4. Apply finishing paint and let dry.
5. Remove masking tape and paper.
To paint the grilles:
IMPORTANT: Avoid painting the grilles in a way that caus-
es the holes to be filled.
1. Remove the grilles: Use a small screwdriver or knife to
snap open the back edge of each grille near the terminals.
2. Paint the grilles: Primer is not required. If using a spray
paint, use two thin coats. If using a house paint, thin the
paint to avoid filling the perforation holes in the grille. Let
the paint dry completely.
3. Reinsert the grilles: Insert the front edge in the groove
near the logo and then snap the rear of the grille into
place on the cabinet.
29⁄32"
(23mm)
Drill 1⁄2" (12mm) holes
toggle wings
Level bracket
before hanging
speaker
6-32 x 2"
machine screws
1"
(25mm)
Mounting
1. Make two holes using the bracket as a template. If running wires behind the wall, make a hole for
them 1" (25mm) below the bracket (left).
2. Insert the machine screws through the bracket and thread onto the toggle wings before pene-
trating the wall (center).
3. Level the bracket and tighten the screws. Connect the wires and hang the speaker on the bracket,
so the arrow on the label points to the front of the home theater area (right).

Limited Warranty
For five years from the date of purchase, Boston Acoustics will repair for the original owner any
defect in materials or workmanship that occurs in normal use of the VRS Micro speaker system,
without charge for parts and labor.
Your responsibilities are to use the system according to the instructions supplied, to provide safe
and secure transportation to an authorized Boston Acoustics service representative and to present
proof of purchase in the form of your sales slip when requesting service.
Excluded from this warranty is damage that results from abuse, misuse, accidents, shipping or repairs
or modifications by anyone other than an authorized Boston Acoustics service representative.
This warranty is void if the serial number has been removed or defaced.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
If Service Seems Necessary
First, contact the retailer from whom you purchased the speakers. If that is not possible, write to:
Boston Acoustics, Inc., 300 Jubilee Drive, Peabody, MA 01960.
We will promptly advise you of what action to take. If it is necessary to return your speaker to the
factory, please ship it prepaid. After it has been repaired, we will return it freight prepaid in the U.S.
and Canada.
300 Jubilee Drive
Peabody, MA 01960 U.S.A.
508-538-5000
Boston and Boston Acoustics are registered trademarks
of Boston Acoustics, Inc. Dolby, ProLogic, and Dolby
Digital are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories
Licensing Corporation.
© Copyright 1996 Boston Acoustics, Inc. All rights reserved.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
42-648-0