EM Acoustics i-2 User manual

1
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
i-2
User Manual –v3.0
EM Acoustics Loudspeakers
Building 74, Dunsfold Park
Cranleigh, Surrey
GU6 8TB, UK
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.emacoustics.co.uk
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Copyright EM Acoustics 2013

2
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
CONTENTS
Introduction
Thank you Page 3
Unpacking Page 3
Declaration of Conformity Page 3
Product Overview Page 4
System Set-up
Safety Considerations Page 5
Cabling & Amplifier selection Page 5
Processing Page 6
Mounting & Rigging Options
Stand Mounting Page 7
Ground Stacking Page 7
Rigging Hardware & Accessories Page 8
Permanent Installations Page 8
i-2 Rigging Accessories Page 9
Maintenance Page 11
Warranty Page 12
Appendix A –Technical Specifications Page 13
THIS MANUAL HAS BEEN UPDATED TO APPLY TO i-2 ENCLOSURES WITH SERIAL NUMBERS FROM
i2200212/001 onwards

3
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
INTRODUCTION
Thank you
Thank you for purchasing the i-2 loudspeaker from EM Acoustics. The i-2 has been carefully designed and
rigorously tested to ensure years of flawless operation and unprecedented sonic quality. Designed originally as a
theatrical front-fill loudspeaker, the i-2 can also find applications from cafes and bars through to museums,
nightclub infills and themed attractions.
Please ensure that you read this manual carefully before use, and that you keep it to hand should you need it for
further reference. Furthermore, should you have any difficulties please do not hesitate in contacting your EM
Acoustics dealer, or email i[email protected]k for further assistance.
Unpacking
Every EM Acoustics product is built to the highest standard and thoroughly tested before it leaves our factory.
After unpacking your loudspeaker, please inspect it carefully for any signs of transit damage. If such damage is
found, please notify the carrier at once to instigate a claim. It is suggested that you retain all packaging for future
re-shipment.
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.
Standards Applied: 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.

4
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The i-2 is an ultra-compact fullrange loudspeaker, designed specifically for applications where controlled, accurate
dispersion is required. The use of a 4” x 1” exit planar wave manifold for HF allows the i-2 to produce a coverage
pattern of 90°x 30°, which can be rotated to allow use in any orientation. The angled side surface of the
enclosure allows for subtle up or down-angle when used on a stage edge or up against a ceiling.
Innovative three-way passive crossover technology creates perfect time alignment between the three components,
and avoids the interference lobing normally encountered with such designs.
As with all EM Acoustics products, no external program or equalisation is required for the i-2 to function correctly.
However, for higher-SPL applications a high pass filter set above 75Hz is recommended to prevent over-excursion
of the low frequency drive units.
A variety of flexible rigging and mounting options are available for the i-2 to ensure the widest variety in
applications. See later in this manual for more information.

5
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
SYSTEM SET-UP
Safety Considerations
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.
Professional loudspeaker systems are capable of producing damage-inducing sound pressure levels, and hence
care should be taken when setting your system up, particularly when it comes to loudspeaker placement within a
venue. Damage to the ear can result from levels above 90dB under prolonged exposure.
Cabling and Amplifier Selection
The i-2 is designed to be used with professional power amplifiers providing the following power outputs:
i-2 400W/channel into eight ohms
It is good practice to use an amplifier power equal to the program power rating of the loudspeaker –so as to
retain sufficient headroom and good dynamic range. Care should be taken during operation to avoid amplifier
clipping –as this can cause serious damage to your loudspeakers. If in doubt, please contact your dealer who will
be happy to assist you in correct amplifier choice and setup.
Cabling
i-2 loudspeakers are supplied with Neutrik SpeakonTM NL4 connectors, wired pin 1+/1-. The 2+/2- pins are
connected to allow link-through with four core cables. It is recommended that the resistance of your cable is less
than one tenth of the nominal system impedance. Given below are the recommended maximum cable lengths for
different cross-sections and impedances.
Conductor Cross Sectional Area Maximum Recommended Cable Length
4 ohms 8 ohms 16 ohms
1.0mm211m 22m 44m
1.5mm2 17m 34m 68m
2.0mm222m 44m 88m
2.5mm229m 58m 116m
4.0mm244m 88m 176m
6.0mm266m 132m 264m
A small power amplifier working too hard is more likely to damage a loudspeaker than a large power amplifier
working within its operating range!

6
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
Processing
The i-2 incorporates a three-way passive crossover network to split the full-range input signal to the relevant drive
units. Under no circumstances should you attempt to disconnect or bypass this network –doing so is likely to
damage your loudspeaker.
Like all EM Acoustics products, the i-2 requires no external EQ to function as intended. Depending on the nature
of your desired application, you may well wish to use a system processor for delays and room EQ. It is also
recommended for higher-SPL applications that a high pass filter should be used –with a minimum of 24dB/Octave
Butterworth slope, around or above 90Hz. This will prevent unwanted low frequencies (which the i-2 is not
capable of reproducing) from forcing the drive units to over-travel and will avoid damage.
If you are in any doubt whatsoever over correct processor settings, please do not hesitate to contact your EM
Acoustics representative or contact us at the factory directly.

7
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
MOUNTING & RIGGING OPTIONS
Stand Mounting
The i-2 has two 3/8” threaded fixings for microphone stand mounting. When mounting in this way, please
consider the following:
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.
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.
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.

8
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
Rigging Hardware & Accessories
The i-2 loudspeaker has a range of integral rigging hardware to enable usage in a wide variety of ways. A
microphone stand can be used to mount the enclosure in either vertical or horizontal formats, whilst the four M6
points on the rear allow permanent installation with OmnimountTM or PowerDriveTM mounting hardware. Two
rigging accessories are also available for the i-2 –the YK-i2 vertical hanging yoke, and the YK-i2h horizontal
hanging yoke.
Under no circumstances should the mounting points of one enclosure be used to suspend another
enclosure below it. EM Acoustics are in no way responsible for the failure of incorrectly rigged
systems. This information relates specifically to the rigging techniques for the i-Series enclosures
only. If you are in any doubt about safe practices for rigging loudspeakers, please contact your local
EM Acoustics dealer who will be able to advise you.
Permanent Installations
Any installation (permanent or temporary) must be securely attached to the structure of the building using chain,
steel wire or web straps that are certified and load rated for the loudspeaker system. Consideration must be taken
when determining the loading on the structure to include loudspeakers and rigging hardware, and the appropriate
safety factor can then be decided upon. If you are in any doubt whatsoever, please contact your EM
Acoustics dealer who will be able to refer you to an experienced rigging company. A reputable rigging organisation
should also be able to advise on legislation regarding safety factors for suspended systems of this type.

9
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
Attachment of the YK-i2 vertical hanging yoke
Using a flat-blade screwdriver, remove the two M8 countersunk bolts on the flat side of the enclosure (marked “A”
in Fig 1). Position the YK-i2 mounting plate over the two holes, reinstate the bolts and tighten securely. There are
three hole positions for an attachment device in the top of the yoke (marked “B” in Fig 2). For permanent
installation, these can be used to fix the YK-i2 directly to a surface. For temporary installation, a standard hook
clamp is recommended. Attach this clamp or other suitable device using an M10 bolt, nut and washer set. The i-2
can now be securely suspended and oriented as required. By rotating the YK-i2 through 180 degrees, it can be
used to allow down-tilt or up-tilt when using a microphone stand (Fig 3).

10
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
Attachment of the YK-i2h horizontal hanging yoke
With the i-2 lying on its side, remove the two countersunk M10 fixings in the ends of the enclosure (marked “A” in
Fig 1) and put them in a safe place. Position the YK-i2h over the enclosure, insert the knurled plastic knobs into
the holes and tighten securely. There are three possible positions for an attachment device –only the central
point (marked “B”) should ever be used by itself. If using the end points (marked “C”), both should be used to
avoid unnecessary strain on the yoke.
Attachment of OmnimountTM or PowerdriveTM Installation Brackets
It is strongly suggested that you position your loudspeakers, then mark & drill the holes in the mounting walls
before you attach the bracket to the loudspeaker, as it is much easier to check positioning and fit of the holes
without the weight of the loudspeaker.
The i-2 is designed to work with OmniMountTM Series 30 or PowerDriveTM Series 75 products.
Lie the enclosure on its front and remove the four M6 countersunk points on the rear of the enclosure. Position
the loudspeaker-side of the bracket as required, reinstate the bolts and retighten. The bracket and i-2 can now be
mounted using the holes you have pre-drilled.
Safety Considerations
When utilising any suspension method, a secondary safety must be used. When using installation brackets or the
YK-i2, a forged shoulder M10 eyebolt can be fitted into one of the points on the end of the enclosure, and this can
be used to attach a safety. For use with the YK-i2h, use an M8 forged shoulder eyebolt in one of the M8 points on
the sides.

11
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
MAINTENANCE
Your EM Acoustics loudspeakers have been rigorously tested before they leave our factory, to ensure that they give
you a lifetime of flawless operation. Should any of your drive units fail and need replacing, please follow the
guidelines below.
i-2: LF/MF Drive Units
1. Using a 2.5mm Allen key, remove the four countersunk machine screws that hold the front grille in place. Lift
the grille clear, ensuring that you collect the four screws for reinstatement after service.
2. Using a 3mm Allen key, remove the four socket-head screws holding the drive unit. Lift the drive unit out of
the enclosure (you may need a flat bladed screwdriver to lift the driver up) and carefully disconnect the cables,
ensuring to collect the washers for future reinstatement.
3. To reinstate the driver, simply reverse the above procedure. Please observe the correct polarity –red cable to
positive terminal, black cable to negative (LF driver) or brown cable to positive terminal, blue cable to negative
(MF driver).
4. To re-attach the grille, place it in position and carefully ease the grille over the gasket attached to the
woodwork. Ensure that the gasket does not get caught as it will bunch up and stick to the grille. Once the
grille is firmly in position, apply pressure to the ends by the mounting points and reinstate the four
countersunk screws.
i-2: HF Drive Unit
1. Remove the grille as above.
2. Using a 3mm Allen key, remove the four socket-head screws holding the drive unit. Lift the waveguide out of
the enclosure (you may need a flat bladed screwdriver to lift the waveguide up) and carefully disconnect the
cables, ensuring to collect the washers for future reinstatement.
3. To remove the planar wave driver from the waveguide, use a 3mm Allen key in the socket head bolts through
the waveguide, and hold the M4 Nyloc nuts at the rear with a 7mm spanner.
4. To reinstate the driver, simply reverse the above procedure. Please observe the correct polarity –white cable
to positive terminal, yellow cable to negative.
5. Follow the procedure outlined above to replace the front grille.

12
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
WARRANTY
Limited Warranty
This EM Acoustics loudspeaker product is warranted to the original end-user purchaser and all subsequent owners
for a period of three years from the original date of purchase.
Warranty Coverage
This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not include:
Damage or failure caused by accident, misuse, neglect, abuse or modification by any person other than an
authorised EM Acoustics representative.
Damage or failure caused by operating the loudspeaker product contrary to the instructions contained within
this manual.
Damage caused during shipment.
Claims based on any misrepresentation by the seller.
Products which contain anything other than the original components (or EM Acoustics factory supplied spare
parts).
Products on which the serial number has been removed, altered or defaced.
Returning your EM Acoustics loudspeaker
Should your EM Acoustics loudspeaker develop a fault, please return it (freight prepaid) in its original packaging,
along with proof of purchase to your local dealer or to:
EM Acoustics (Returns Department), Building 74, Dunsfold Park, Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8TB, UK
including a description of the suspected fault. Serial numbers must be quoted in all correspondence relating to the
claim. EM Acoustics or its representatives are in no way liable for any loss or damage in transit, and hence it is
recommended that the sender insure the shipment. EM Acoustics will pay for return freight should the repair be
covered under warranty.
EM Acoustics’ liability is to the replacement or repair (at our discretion) of any defective components, and as such
are not liable for any incidental and consequential damages including (without limitation) injury to persons,
damage to property or loss of use.
This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied. This warranty is also in
addition to –and in no way detracts from –your statutory rights as a consumer.

13
i-2 User Manual
www.emacoustics.co.uk
APPENDIX A –TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
EM Acoustics operates a continuous process of research and development, and as such reserves the right to alter specifications without notice.
i-2
Enclosure Type: compact fullrange enclosure
Dimensions (HxWxD, mm/ins): 151/5.9 x 470/18.5 x 192/7.6
Net Weight: 9kg
Frequency Response (+/- 3dB): 90Hz –18KHz
Sensitivity: 91dB, 1W/1m
Dispersion: 90 H x 30 V (rotatable)
Drive Units: 2 x 5” (127mm) LF/MF cone drive units
1” (25mm) exit HF compression driver on plane-wave manifold
Power Handling: 200W RMS, 400W Program
Maximum SPL: 110dB continuous, 116dB peak
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
Crossover: Uniphase Internal Passive.
Connectors: 2 x Neutrik SpeakonTM NL4MP
Enclosure: 15mm (5/8”) Finnish Birch plywood
Rigging/Suspension: 4 x M6 threaded fittings (Omnimount/Powerdrive)
2 x M10 threaded fixings (YK-i2h)
2 x M8 threaded fixings (YK-i2)
2 x 3/8” threaded fixings (microphone stand)
Grille: Perforated steel
Options: Colours/Weather Protection
Spares & Accessories: DU-501 replacement LF/MF drive unit
CD-1003 replacement HF drive unit
RD-1003 replacement HF diaphragm
WG-i2 replacement diecast waveguide
RG-I2 replacement grille
PX-I2 passive circuitry
YK-i2 vertical hanging yoke
YK-i2h horizontal hanging yoke