EM Acoustics EMS-156 Operational manual

EMS-156 / 159
two-way passive fullrange loudspeaker
Product User Manual
v2 November 2019
LOUDSPEAKERS REDEFINED

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Contents
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ................................................................................................................ 4!
1.0 - Introduction .............................................................................................................................................5!
Unpacking.......................................................................................................................................................5!
2.0 – EMS-159/156 & Accessories.............................................................................................................6!
EMS-159 .........................................................................................................................................................6!
EMS-156 .........................................................................................................................................................6!
FC-159h..........................................................................................................................................................7!
FC-159v ..........................................................................................................................................................7!
VFA-159 .........................................................................................................................................................7!
CM-159............................................................................................................................................................ 8!
2.1 – Rotating the HF waveguide..........................................................................................................8!
NOTE: Be careful not to over-rotate the waveguide in one particular direction to avoid
over-tensioning the cables. ................................................................................................................8!
3.0 – Simulation.................................................................................................................................................9!
Ease Focus 3 ................................................................................................................................................. 9!
4.0 - Safety Considerations....................................................................................................................... 10!
General Considerations in use ............................................................................................................. 10!
Personal Injury...................................................................................................................................... 10!
Stand Mounting.................................................................................................................................... 10!
Ground Stacking................................................................................................................................... 11!
Rigging and Suspension.................................................................................................................... 11!
Secondary Safeties.................................................................................................................................. 12!
Safety Inspections................................................................................................................................... 12!
Material Damage from Magnetism ................................................................................................ 12!
5.0 – Rigging & Mounting Options .......................................................................................................... 13!
5.1 – EMS-159 Cabinet Overview ....................................................................................................... 13!
5.2 – Using the FC-159v......................................................................................................................... 14!
5.2.1 – FC-159v Angle Setting........................................................................................................ 15!
5.3 – Using the FC-159h ........................................................................................................................ 16!
5.3.1 – Drop height adjustment on the FC-159h...................................................................... 16!
5.4 – Using the VFA-159........................................................................................................................ 17!
5.5 – Use with the CM-159 column mount...................................................................................... 18!

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5.6 – Safety Point..................................................................................................................................... 18!
6.0 – Powering the System........................................................................................................................ 19!
6.1 - Amplifier and Processing Requirements............................................................................... 19!
6.1.1 - Connections............................................................................................................................. 19!
6.1.3 – Amplifier Requirements ...................................................................................................... 20!
6.1.4 – Processing Requirements................................................................................................... 20!
6.2 - Presets and Settings .................................................................................................................... 21!
6.2.1 – Standard EMS-159 Preset.................................................................................................. 21!
6.2.2 - Geometric Delay..................................................................................................................... 21!
6.2.3 - Applying EQ.............................................................................................................................. 21!
6.3 - Use with the DQ Series Advanced System Amplifiers ..................................................... 22!
6.3.1 - Connections............................................................................................................................. 22!
6.3.2 - Preset Recall............................................................................................................................ 22!
6.4 - System Connectivity..................................................................................................................... 23!
6.4.1 - Cable Length and Specification........................................................................................ 23!
6.4.2 – Crossover Cable Use ............................................................................................................. 23!
7.0 – Servicing Information........................................................................................................................ 24!
7.1 – EMS-159: Removing the grille ................................................................................................. 24!
7.2 – EMS-159: Removing the LF drive unit.................................................................................. 25!
7.3 – EMS-159: Removing the HF drive unit ................................................................................. 26!
Appendix A – Technical Specifications.................................................................................................. 27!
EMS-156/EMS-159 passive fullrange loudspeaker..................................................................... 27!
Appendix B – Technical Drawings ........................................................................................................... 28!
Appendix C – Spare Parts List ................................................................................................................... 32!
Appendix D – Warranty Information ....................................................................................................... 33!
Limited Warranty ................................................................................................................................. 33!
Warranty Coverage ............................................................................................................................. 33!
Returning your EM Acoustics loudspeaker................................................................................. 33!

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
The products contained within this manual conform to the
requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, amended by
92/31/EEC and to the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive
73/23/EEC amended by 93/68/EEC.
EMC Emission EN55103-1:1996
Immunity EN55103-2:1996
Electrical Safety EN60065:1993
RECYCLING
This product and its packaging constitute the applicable product according
to the WEEE directive. Please ensure that at the end of the working life of
this product, it is disposed of sensibly in accordance with local and national
recycling regulations. The packaging supplied with this product is
recyclable. Please retain all packaging, however if disposing of this
packaging please ensure that you comply with local recycling regulations.
These products also all comply to the RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC.

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1.0 - Introduction
Thank you for purchasing this highly acclaimed product from EM Acoustics. The EMS-156
and EMS-159 are identical loudspeakers except for their dispersion angles – as such
throughout this manual when we refer to the EMS-159, we mean either the EMS-156 or
EMS-159. This product has been designed and rigorously tested to give you the utmost in
sonic performance and many years of reliable, trouble-free operation. Please take the time
to read this user manual thoroughly to ensure you get the best performance from your
system and to ensure you set it up correctly and safely. If you have any questions or are
in any doubt whatsoever about any aspect of your new product, please do not hesitate to
contact us directly or your local EM Acoustics representative.
The EMS-159 is a powerful 2-way loudspeaker, intended for a wide variety of audio
applications – from main theatrical loudspeakers through larger-scale corporate A/V, right
up to live music reinforcement either as a stand alone product or as fills for much larger
systems. The robust enclosure houses a 15” neodymium LF drive unit and a 1.4” exit HF
compression drive unit coupled to a rotatable constant coverage waveguide - 90° x 60° for
the EMS-159, and 60° x 40° for the EMS-156. These two drive units are linked with an
extremely comprehensive passive crossover network. This means the EMS-159 exhibits
flat frequency and phase responses without the need of external corrective processing.
This manual contains all the information you should need on topics of set up, amplifier
connection and basic service. If you feel we have missed anything, or you have a question
not covered by this manual, please visit our website www.emacoustics.co.uk and send us
a message or give us a call – we’re only too happy to help.
Unpacking
Please take care when unpacking your loudspeaker system. Once unpacked, please inspect
each enclosure thoroughly for any transit damage and in the case of any damage please
notify your carrier immediately. It is the responsibility of you, the consignee, to instigate
any claim. Please retain all original packaging in case of future re-shipment.

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2.0 – EMS-159/156 & Accessories
EMS-159
Compact passive loudspeaker
FEATURES & BENEFITS
•Signature EM Acoustics “maximum headroom” design approach ensures
consistency of performance regardless of SPL level.
•Quick-release “keyhole” flying plates for swift attachment of primary rigging
accessories.
•Additional M10 threaded flying points for temporary and permanent
installation.
•Enclosure coated with 3-step polyurethane process - ensuring the cabinets
are not only weather resistant but more resilient to impact damage.
•Various rigging accessories available.
•Connections on NL4.
•Single amplifier channel required.
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
!
ENCLOSURE TYPE:
DRIVE UNITS:
FREQUENCY RESPONSE:
NOMINAL DISPERSION1:
MAXIMUM SPL:
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE:
DIMENSIONS (HxWxD):
NET/SHIPPING WEIGHT:
!
!
2-way passive, reflex loaded
LF: 15” / HF: 1.4”
65Hz – 20kHz +/-3dB
90° x 60° rotatable
130dB continuous, 136dB peak
8 ohms
707 (27.8) x 440 (17.3) x 450 (17.7) mm/(ins)
43/45kg (94.6/99lbs)
FEATURES & BENEFITS
•Signature EM Acoustics “maximum headroom” design approach ensures
consistency of performance regardless of SPL level.
•Quick-release “keyhole” flying plates for swift attachment of primary rigging
accessories.
•Additional M10 threaded flying points for temporary and permanent
installation.
•Enclosure coated with 3-step polyurethane process - ensuring the cabinets
are not only weather resistant but more resilient to impact damage.
•Various rigging accessories available.
•Connections on NL4.
•Single amplifier channel required.
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
!
ENCLOSURE TYPE:
DRIVE UNITS:
FREQUENCY RESPONSE:
NOMINAL DISPERSION1:
MAXIMUM SPL:
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE:
DIMENSIONS (HxWxD):
NET/SHIPPING WEIGHT:
!
!
2-way passive, reflex loaded
LF: 15” / HF: 1.4”
65Hz – 20kHz +/-3dB
60° x 40° rotatable
130dB continuous, 136dB peak
8 ohms
707 (27.8) x 440 (17.3) x 450 (17.7) mm/(ins)
43/45kg (94.6/99lbs)
EMS-156
Narrow dispersion passive loudspeaker

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FC-159h
Horizontal flying cradle
The FC-159h is a simple and effective means of mounting the EMS-159 in both
temporary and permanent applications.
It is secured to the cabinet by means of M10 socket head bolts into the top and
bottom of the loudspeaker to mount it in a landscape format. Multiple 13mm
diameter holes are provided for attachment in installation or via a hook clamp
or similar.
The FC-159h is designed to support one single EMS-159 loudspeaker.
Weight (including fixings) 8kg / 17.6lbs
FC-159v
Vertical flying cradle
The FC-159v is a simple and effective means of mounting the EMS-159 in both
temporary and permanent applications.
It is secured to the cabinet by means of bosses that engage into keyhole plates
into the top or bottom of the loudspeaker to mount it in a portrait format. The
frame is secured in place with quick-release ball-lock pins. A single 13mm
diameter fixing point is provided at the top of the outer yoke for attachment
either in installations or via a hook clamp or similar.
The FC-159v is designed to support one single EMS-159 loudspeaker.
Weight (including fixings) 9.5kg / 21lbs
VFA-159
Variable angle flying bracket
The VFA-159 is designed to allow the mounting of a single EMS-159 from a
single point, where the angle is determined by the loudspeakers’ own centre of
gravity.
The mounting part can move between different locations, giving 25 degrees of
uptilt or 30 degrees of downtilt in 5-degree increments.
The VFA-159 is secured to the top of the loudspeaker with the same
boss/keyhole plate technique as the FC-159v.
The VFA-159 is designed to support one single EMS-129 loudspeaker.
Weight (including fixings) 3.5kg / 7.7lbs

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2.1 – Rotating the HF waveguide
The high frequency waveguide of the EMS-159 can be easily rotated to provide
appropriate dispersion in both portrait and landscape formats.
By default, the EMS-159 ships from the factory with the dispersion pattern 90°
horizontal x 60° vertical when the loudspeaker is in a portrait format (60° horizontal x
40° vertical for the EMS-156).
To rotate the waveguide:
1. Follow step 1 in the servicing chapter (Chapter 7) to remove the grille.
2. Using a 4mm Allen key, remove the eight M6x40 countersunk socket head screws
that secure the waveguide.
3. Lift the waveguide up from the enclosure to rotate through 90 degrees to the
desired orientation - the label on the waveguide describes the orientation.
4. Once in the correct orientation, replace the M6x30 countersunk socket screws and
retighten.
5. Replace the grille.
NOTE: Be careful not to over-rotate the waveguide in one particular direction to avoid
over-tensioning the cables.
M6x40
countersunk socket screws
CM-159
Column flying bracket
The CM-159 is designed to provide a means of mounting another loudspeaker
directly below a flown MSE-159, in a safe and neat manner.
The CM-159 is secured to the bottom of the loudspeaker with the same
boss/keyhole plate technique as the FC-159v and VFA-159, and then has a
single 13mm diameter hole to bolt other loudspeaker cradles to.
The CM-159 is designed to support a load of up to 40kg.
Weight (including fixings) 2kg /4.4lbs

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3.0 – Simulation
Ease Focus 3
For acoustic reasons it is advised that users familiarize themselves with Ease Focus 3 – this system
provides the user with accurate simulations for setting up EMS-159 loudspeakers.
Ease Focus 3 can be downloaded for free from the AFMG website at http://focus.afmg.eu and is
currently available as a stand-alone application for Windows (XP or Higher) only. It can also be
downloaded directly from the EM Acoustics website with all the current product files embedded.
Tutorials for Ease Focus 3 are available from with the application itself.
For training on the design and implementation of EMS-159 loudspeakers including the specific use
of Ease Focus 3, please contact your local distributor.

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4.0 - Safety Considerations
General Considerations in use
Loudspeaker systems are potentially dangerous objects if used incorrectly. Please ensure
that you read this section fully, and contact EM Acoustics or your local dealer should you
be in any doubt over correct operation procedures.
Personal Injury
Never stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers when in use at high level.
Professional loudspeaker systems are capable of producing sound pressure levels which
can cause permanent damage to human hearing. Levels in excess of 90dB can cause
hearing damage if people are exposed to them over a long period of time, so care and
attention must be used for both staff and audience members.
When deploying loudspeaker systems on the ground or when flown, please take careful
note of the following important safety considerations:
• Only use accessories and flying hardware supplied or approved by EM Acoustics for
flying or transporting loudspeaker systems. Pay close attention to specific
instructions, especially those considering maximum load capabilities as detailed in
the appropriate user manuals or on the legend labels on the accessories
themselves.
• Ensure all additional accessories, fasteners and secondary safeties are of an
appropriate size, working load limit and safety factor.
• All loudspeakers and accessories should be regularly inspected for signs of wear
and tear, and any damaged parts should be replaced.
• All load bearing parts and assembly bolts on accessories should be regularly
checked to ensure they are tight and not worn.
Stand Mounting
When mounting loudspeakers on a stand, please take note of the following important
considerations:
• Ensure your stand height is locked off and the tripod legs are positioned so as to
be stable.
• Check the weight loading of your stands before attempting to mount the
loudspeaker.
• Do not stack a second loudspeaker on top of the stand-mounted one.
• Ensure cables are run so as to leave enough slack to enable neat wiring, and thus
reduce the risk of the speaker being pulled over. Loose cables should be covered
or taped down wherever possible to reduce trip hazards.
• If stands are being used outdoors, it may be necessary to add ballast to the base
of the stand to prevent it toppling over.
• When using poles on top of subwoofer systems, please observe similar precautions.

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Ground Stacking
• Ensure that the floor or stage surface can withstand the weight of the system.
• Wherever possible, avoid high stacks and use ratchet straps to secure loudspeakers
together. Please also remember that vibrations from subwoofer systems can shake
other loudspeakers out of place, which may present a toppling hazard. The use of
ratchet straps and non-slip material is recommended to prevent this.
Rigging and Suspension
Please see Chapter 5 for further information on the detailed rigging options for your
loudspeaker system.
WARNING: The overhead suspension of loudspeakers is a very serious issue with
potentially lethal consequences should anything go wrong. Rigging should only be
carried out by experienced personnel following safe working practice. Should you be
in any doubt whatsoever, please contact your local dealer who will be able to refer you
to a suitable rigging company.
To ensure the highest standards of safety, the following information on array assembly must be
exactly followed and understood.
Only use EM Acoustics recommended rigging hardware and accessories, which are specifically
designed for the purpose. Do not use these accessories for any other loudspeaker system – the
components are specifically designed to work with this product and are not interchangeable with
any other EM Acoustics loudspeaker product (unless where specifically stated) or any other
loudspeaker system. The use of EM Acoustics accessories with other manufacturers’ systems may
compromise the safety standards and EM Acoustics is in no way liable for any loss, damage or injury
caused by such practice.
Do not modify or alter the EMS-159 loudspeaker or accessories, nor use them in any way other than
that described in this manual. Rigging components supplied with the EMS-159 are in no way
interchangeable and should not be used as such.
The component parts of the EMS-159 and its accessories should only be assembled in the manner
described in this manual, using the fasteners and fixings stated herein. The use of fasteners and
methods of assembly not described in this manual may result in an unsafe assembly and as such
EM Acoustics will not be responsible for any loss, damage or injury caused by such practice. Welding,
drilling or any other means of modifying any part of the flying hardware or permanently fixing
components to each other is strictly forbidden.
Rigging assemblies must only be assembled using the appropriate parts and fixings as described in
this manual, explicitly following the assembly instructions given herein. Rigging components must
only be fixed to the EMS-159 loudspeaker, using the correct cabinet location points, assembly
methods and fasteners specifically described within this manual.
Walls, floors and ceilings must be capable of supporting the actual load placed upon them. The
rigging hardware must be safely and securely fixed to both the loudspeaker system and the
supporting structure.

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Secondary Safeties
It is imperative that all loudspeakers flown in any given environment should be provided with a
second, independent and properly rated safety suspension point in addition to the principle load
bearing means of suspension. Steel wire ropes or steel chains of an approved construction and load
rating only may be used as secondary safeties. Plastic covered steel chains may not be used as
secondary safeties under any circumstances. Also ensure that all local and national laws are
complied with when determining your primary and secondary suspension points.
Safety Inspections
Carefully inspect all flying system components prior to use for defects or signs of damage prior to
installing or mounting your loudspeaker. If any components damaged or you suspect them to be
damaged, DO NOT USE THEM.
Regular scheduled tests – which are much more rigorous than visual inspections – of all rigging
components must also be carried out. Safety legislation, and test/inspection requirements, will vary
from country to country and as such it is the user’s responsibility to ensure that local regulations
are adhered to. In most cases, annual independent tests & inspections carried out by a suitably
approved and qualified inspector will be required.
EM Acoustics recommends detailed logbooks be kept of all inspections and load tests to ensure an
accurate record is kept of the testing for each EM Acoustics rigging accessory.
When flying any loudspeaker system, always wear protective headwear, footwear and eye
protection in accordance with local regulations.
Material Damage from Magnetism
Loudspeakers produce a static magnetic field at all times – even when not in use. Certain devices
are susceptible to external magnetism, and as such a safe distance should be maintained to prevent
damage. It is recommended that a safe distance of 0.5m (1.5ft) is maintained from loudspeakers
when stored, transported and in use, from devices such as computer hard drives, magnetic media,
bank cards to remove the risk of corruption. Larger distances may be required for some older
cathode ray tube displays.

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5.0 – Rigging & Mounting Options
5.1 – EMS-159 Cabinet Overview
[1]
[8]
1
Top keyhole location point
2
Locking pin location
3
Top M10 threaded flying point
4
Carrying handle
5
Bottom keyhole location point
6
Bottom M10 threaded flying point
7
Rear M8 safety point
8
Polemount
[7]
[3]
[4]
[2]
[5]
[6]
[2]
M10x20 socket bolt
M10 spring washer
M10 Form A (flat) washer

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Remove the two ball-lock pins at the front of the
cradle as shown below. Align the FC-159v with
the EMS-159 loudspeaker, and lower the cradle
so that the bosses engage into the large
opening in the keyhole shape.
Next, slide the cradle assembly backwards as far as it will go.
This will then align the two ball-lock pin holes and will allow
you to engage the ball lock pins, securing the frame to the
loudspeaker.
To set the angle, remove the ball-lock pins on both sides, and
undo the locking handle. The loudspeaker can then be angled
as desired, and the ball-lock pins reinserted to provide a
secondary and easily repeatable angle setting.
5.2 – Using the FC-159v
The FC-159v is intended to mount the EMS-159 vertically – either using a hook clamp or
similar from above.
Firstly, assemble the mounting plate to the inner yoke as per the instructions supplied with
the FC-159v.
Lower & engage into
keyhole plate
Remove pins

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5.2.1 – FC-159v Angle Setting
The holes on the pivots of the FC-159v allow quick and repeatable angle setting when in
use, and the pins provide a secondary means of ensuring the angle remains set.
As the inner yoke rotates, different holes become available to secure in place. To give
further explanation, holes A-D are for down-tilt angles, and holes E-H are for up-tilt angles.
Hole A is used for 0 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of down-tilt onwards (0, 20,
40, 60, 80 degree down-tilt).
Hole B is used for 10 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of down-tilt onwards (10,
30, 50, 70, 90 degree down-tilt).
Hole C is used for 15 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of down-tilt onwards (15,
35, 55, 75 degree down-tilt).
Hole D is used for 5 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of down-tilt onwards (5, 25,
45, 65, 85 degree down-tilt).
Hole E is used for 10 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of up-tilt onwards (10, 30,
50, 70, 90 degree up-tilt).
Hole F is used for 0 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of up-tilt onwards (0, 20, 40,
60, 80 degree up-tilt).
Hole G is used for 15 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of up-tilt onwards (15, 35,
55, 75 degree up-tilt
Hole H is used for 5 degrees, and for multiples of 20 degrees of up-tilt onwards (5, 25, 45,
65, 85 degree up-tilt).
HOLE H: 5° + (n x 20°) up-tilt
HOLE G: 15° + (n x 20°) up-tilt
HOLE E: 10° + (n x 20°) up-tilt
HOLE F: 0° + (n x 20°) up-tilt
HOLE A: 0° + (n x 20°) down-tilt
HOLE B: 10° + (n x 20°) down-tilt
HOLE C: 15° + (n x 20°) down-tilt
HOLE D: 5° + (n x 20°) down-tilt

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5.3 – Using the FC-159h
The FC-159h is intended to mount the EMS-159 horizontally. To fit, lie the EMS-159 on
its side and loosen the locking knobs so that the mounting plates can be rotated to allow
access to the mounting bolt holes. Line the flying cradle up with the mounting holes and
secure to the EMS-159 with M10x20 socket head bolts.
Ensure that the washers are in the correct order – form A (flat) in contact with the frame,
and then the spring washer between the flat washer and the locking handle. Tighten the
handles on both sides to lock the desired angle for the EMS-159.
Always ensure that a secondary safety is used when suspending any loudspeaker.
5.3.1 – Drop height adjustment on the FC-159h
Different location holes for the mounts to pivot in are provided on the FC-159h mounting
yoke. Position 1 (closest to the end of the yoke arms) allows full 360° rotation of the
loudspeaker, and positions 2-4 offer a closer fit to the yoke, but with reduced rotational
ability of the loudspeaker itself.
M10 form A (flat) washer
M10 spring washer
Locking handle
M10x20 socket head bolt
Position #1
Position #2
Position #3
Position #4

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5.4 – Using the VFA-159
The VFA-159 is designed to suspend the EMS-159 from a single point, using the centre of
gravity of the loudspeaker to determine the up or down tilt angles. A moveable pickup
point allows setting of the angle in 5-degree increments from +25° to -30°.
Remove the two ball lock pins from the VFA-159, and lower it
into position so that the bosses engage in the large diameter
opening in the keyhole plate.
Slide the VFA-159 assembly toward the back of the EMS-159
until it will go no further – the holes should then line up to
insert the ball-lock pins back in place and lock the VFA-159 to
the EMS-159 loudspeaker.
Select the appropriate pickup point for your desired hanging
angle. The central hole in the spine is for 0-degree flying. The
track to the front is for up-tilt, and the track to the rear is for
down-tilt – both in 5-degree increments. The furthest hole
location forward gives +25°, and furthest location backward
gives -30° of angle.

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5.5 – Use with the CM-159 column mount
The CM-159 is intended to allow other loudspeakers to be swiftly and safely mounted
below a flown EMS-159.
The CM-159 attaches to the underside of the EMS-159 in exactly the
same way as the FC-159v or VFA-159 – removing the two locking pins,
engaging the bosses and sliding to the rear of the loudspeaker, and re-
engaging the pins to secure it in place.
The flying cradle of the loudspeaker to be flown underneath can then be
bolted to the mounting bracket on the CM-159.
The under-flown loudspeaker must still have an independent safety,
secured to the structure it is being flown from.
5.6 – Safety Point
Any flown loudspeaker must always have a
secondary safety fitted. A single M8 threaded
point is provided on the rear face of the EMS-159.
A simple M8 forged shoulder eyebolt can be
screwed into this point. Safeties should always be
arranged so that the loudspeaker cannot drop in
the event of a primary attachment point failing.
M8 safety point on rear face

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6.0 – Powering the System
The EMS-159 can be powered from any amplifier & DSP combinations with the relevant
high & low pass filter, and limiter settings.However, due to the self-contained nature of
the package, the use of DQ Series advanced system amplifiers is highly recommended. The
use of DQ Series amplifiers provides a neat and flexible system that will encompass all
requirements for the system to function correctly, as well as providing user control for
room EQ and system alignment.
6.1 - Amplifier and Processing Requirements
6.1.1 - Connections
The EMS-159 requires only a single amplifier channel. Inputs to the EMS-159 enclosure
are on Neutrik SpeakON NL4 as illustrated below.
Two-core cable should be used for connecting EMS-159 loudspeakers, and the connections
are as follows:
SpeakON connection 1+ 1- 2+ 2-
Drive unit connection LF + LF - Link Through Link Through

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6.1.3 – Amplifier Requirements
The EMS-159 is a highly efficient loudspeaker, however appropriate available power is
critical to ensure full system headroom. It is good practice to ensure that your amplifier
can deliver at least double the RMS power handling of the loudspeaker to ensure full
headroom, and as such the amplifier requirement is:
Product RMS Power Handling Recommended Min. Amplifier Power
EMS-159 750W @ 8 ohms 1500W @ 8 ohms
A loudspeaker is far more likely to be damaged by an under-powered amplifier working
too hard, than an over-powered amplifier working well within its limits.
All of the DQ Series advanced system amplifiers can be used to power the EMS-159.
The following table shows the maximum number of EMS-159 that can be connected per
channel on the various different amplifiers:
Amplifier Max EMS-159 per channel
DQ6 1
DQ10 2
DQ20 3
6.1.4 – Processing Requirements
Whilst the EMS-159 is a passive loudspeaker and therefore requires no corrective
processing, in all but the lowest SPL applications it does require an active high pass filter
and appropriate limiter settings to avoid damage. If not using DQ Series amplifiers, or the
DSC48 Digital System Controller, then a suitable DSP system must be used in conjunction
with your EMS-159 to prevent damage to the loudspeaker. Check the EM Acoustics
website for the most up-to-date DSP settings for the EMS-159.