EM Acoustics i-C15 Operational manual

i-C15
coaxial passive installation loudspeaker
Product User Manual
v1 November 2019
LOUDSPEAKERS REDEFINED

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Contents
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ................................................................................................................4!
1.0 - Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 5!
Unpacking.......................................................................................................................................................5!
2.0 – i-C15 & Accessories ..............................................................................................................................6!
i-C15.................................................................................................................................................................6!
IB-hC15 ........................................................................................................................................................... 6!
IB-vC15............................................................................................................................................................6!
3.0 – Simulation................................................................................................................................................. 7!
Ease Focus 3 .................................................................................................................................................7!
4.0 - Safety Considerations..........................................................................................................................8!
General Considerations in use ................................................................................................................8!
Personal Injury.........................................................................................................................................8!
Stand Mounting.......................................................................................................................................8!
Ground Stacking......................................................................................................................................9!
Rigging and Suspension.......................................................................................................................9!
Secondary Safeties.................................................................................................................................. 10!
Safety Inspections................................................................................................................................... 10!
Material Damage from Magnetism ................................................................................................ 10!
5.0 – Rigging & Mounting Options .......................................................................................................... 11!
5.1 – i-C15 Cabinet Overview............................................................................................................... 11!
5.2 – Using the IB-vC15.......................................................................................................................... 12!
5.5 – Using the IB-hC15.......................................................................................................................... 12!
5.7 – Safety Point ..................................................................................................................................... 13!
5.8 – Using Powerdrive or Omnimount fittings ............................................................................. 14!
6.0 – Powering the System........................................................................................................................ 15!
6.1 - Amplifier and Processing Requirements............................................................................... 15!
6.1.1 - Connections............................................................................................................................. 15!
6.1.3 – Amplifier Requirements ...................................................................................................... 16!
6.1.4 – Processing Requirements................................................................................................... 16!
6.2 - Presets and Settings .................................................................................................................... 17!
6.2.1 – Standard i-C15 Preset.......................................................................................................... 17!
6.2.2 - Geometric Delay..................................................................................................................... 17!

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6.2.3 - Applying EQ.............................................................................................................................. 17!
6.3 - Use with the DQ Series Advanced System Amplifiers ..................................................... 18!
6.3.1 - Connections............................................................................................................................. 18!
6.3.2 - Preset Recall............................................................................................................................ 18!
6.4 - System Connectivity..................................................................................................................... 19!
6.4.1 - Cable Length and Specification........................................................................................ 19!
6.4.2 – Crossover Cable Use ............................................................................................................. 19!
7.0 – Servicing Information........................................................................................................................ 20!
7.1 – i-C15: Removing the grille......................................................................................................... 20!
7.2 – i-C15: Removing the coaxial drive unit................................................................................. 21!
Appendix A – Technical Specifications.................................................................................................. 22!
i-C15 coaxial passive installation loudspeaker............................................................................. 22!
Appendix B – Technical Drawings ........................................................................................................... 23!
Appendix D – Warranty Information ....................................................................................................... 27!
Limited Warranty ................................................................................................................................. 27!
Warranty Coverage ............................................................................................................................. 27!
Returning your EM Acoustics loudspeaker................................................................................. 27!

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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 the highly acclaimed i-C15 from EM Acoustics. 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 i-C15 is a coaxial passive 2-way loudspeaker, intended for a wide variety of
installation applications – from theatre through to corporate A/V, and on to bar, nightclub
and live music reinforcement. The compact enclosure houses a coaxial 15” LF/1.3” HF drive
unit, along with an extremely comprehensive passive crossover network. This means the
i-C15 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 – i-C15 & Accessories
i-C15
coaxial passive installation loudspeaker
FEATURES & BENEFITS
•Signature EM Acoustics “maximum headroom” design approach ensures
consistency of performance regardless of SPL level.
•Multiple M10 threaded flying points for bracket attachment.
•Enclosure coated with black or white water-based textured paint as standard.
•Various rigging accessories available.
•Compatible with OmnimountTM Series 60 and PowerdriveTM Series 100
products.
•Custom RAL colour matching and weather protection options available.
•Multi-angle enclosure allows use as a monitor as well as FOH.
•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, coaxial, reflex loaded
LF: 15” / HF: 1.3”
55Hz – 20kHz +/-3dB
80° conical
128dB continuous, 134dB peak
8 ohms
690 (27.2) x 440 (17.3) x 418 (16.5) mm/(ins)
28.4/32.3kg (62.5/71lbs)
IB-hC15
Horizontal mounting yoke
The IB-hC15 is a simple and effective means of mounting the i-C15 horizontally
in both temporary and permanent applications.
It is secured to the cabinet by means of M10 threaded locking knobs 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 IB-hC15 is designed to support one single i-C15 loudspeaker.
Weight (including fixings) 3.2kg / 7lbs
IB-vC15
Vertical mounting yoke
The IB-vC15 is a simple and effective means of mounting the i-C15 vertically
in both temporary and permanent applications.
It is secured to the cabinet by means of M10 threaded locking knobs into the
sides of the loudspeaker to mount it in a portrait format. Multiple 13mm
diameter holes are provided at the top of the yoke for attachment either in
installations or via a hook clamp or similar.
The IB-vC15 is designed to support one single i-C15 loudspeaker.
Weight (including fixings) 2.8kg / 6.2lbs

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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 i-C15 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 i-C15 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 i-C15 loudspeaker or accessories, nor use them in any way other than
that described in this manual. Rigging components supplied with the i-C15 are in no way
interchangeable and should not be used as such.
The component parts of the i-C15 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 i-C15 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 – i-C15 Cabinet Overview
[1]
[3]
1
Top/Bottom M10 mounting point
2
Side M10 mounting point
3
Omnimount/Powerdrive attachment point
[1]
[2]

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5.2 – Using the IB-vC15
The IB-vC15 is intended to mount the i-C15 vertically – either using a hook clamp or similar
from above, or a pole mount adapter to mount on a stand yet allowing enclosure tilt. The
procedure for attaching the IB-vC15 to the loudspeaker is the same regardless of the
mounting orientation.
First, check that both sides of the yoke have the adhesive rubber washer in place – this
protects the cabinet paint finish as well as providing grip.
Line the bracket mounting holes up with the threaded points on either side of the cabinet
and insert the locking knobs. Ensure to use the washers in the correct order as shown.
Tighten both locking knobs to set the desired angle.
5.5 – Using the IB-hC15
The IB-hC15 is intended to mount the i-C15 horizontally – either using a hook clamp or
similar from above, or a pole mount adapter to mount on a stand yet allowing enclosure
tilt. The procedure for attaching the IB-hC15 to the loudspeaker is the same regardless of
the mounting orientation.
First, check that both sides of the yoke have the adhesive rubber washer in place – this
protects the cabinet paint finish as well as providing grip.
Line the bracket mounting holes up with the threaded points on the top & bottom of the
cabinet and insert the locking knobs. Ensure to use the washers in the correct order as
shown. Tighten both locking knobs to set the desired angle.
Always ensure that a secondary safety is used when suspending any loudspeaker.
Male stud locking knob
M10 flat washer
M10 spring washer
Male stud locking knob
M10 flat washer
M10 spring washer

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5.7 – Safety Point
Any flown loudspeaker must always have a secondary safety fitted. When any suspension
method is used, use one of the unused M10 mounting points, or one of the M8 points on
the rear of the cabinet as a safety attachment point. A simple M8 or M10 forged shoulder
eyebolt can be screwed into these points (M8 on the rear, M10 on the top/bottom and
sides). Safeties should always be arranged so that the loudspeaker cannot drop in the
event of a primary attachment point failing.

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5.8 – Using Powerdrive or Omnimount fittings
i-C15 loudspeakers are compatible with Powerdrive Series 100 or Omnimount Series 60
installation brackets.
Using a 5mm Allen key, remove the four M8 countersunk socket head bolts on the rear of
the i-C15. The mounting bracket can then be attached using the bolts supplied with the
bracket – they must be M8 thread, minimum 30mm in length. Ensure flat washers are in
contact with the bracket, and the spring washer is in between the bolt head and the flat
washer.
Omnimount/Powerdrive mounting points
Remove M8 countersunk socket bolts from the rear
Step 1
Step 2
Attach bracket using supplied fixings.
Form A (flat) washer
Spring washer
M8 bolt, minimum 30mm length

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6.0 – Powering the System
The i-C15 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 i-C15 requires only a single amplifier channel. Inputs to the i-C15 enclosure are on
Neutrik SpeakON NL4 as illustrated below.
Two-core cable should be used for connecting i-C15 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 i-C15 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
i-C15 450W @ 8 ohms 900W @ 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 i-C15.
The following table shows the maximum number of i-C15 that can be connected per
channel on the various different amplifiers:
Amplifier Max i-C15 per channel
DQ6 1
DQ10 2
DQ20 4
6.1.4 – Processing Requirements
Whilst the i-C15 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 i-C15 to prevent damage to the loudspeaker. Check the EM Acoustics website
for the most up-to-date DSP settings for the i-C15.

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6.2 - Presets and Settings
6.2.1 – Standard i-C15 Preset
When used with a DQ Series amplifier i-C15 loudspeakers require only a single amplifier
channel, and as such the preset recalled will only require one output from your DQ Series
amplifier.
6.2.2 - Geometric Delay
Appropriate delay will need to be applied to account for physical location differences
between different elements of your system – for example time-aligning subwoofers to the
main system. The use of SMAART or similar can make this task a great deal simpler and
faster.
6.2.3 - Applying EQ
The presets are intended to be a starting point for your system and will almost certainly
require tuning on-site dependent on room characteristics, the rest of your system design
and the system voicing you are aiming for. The i-C15 is designed with a significant amount
of system headroom, so applying EQ is perfectly acceptable within sensible limits.

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The four amplifier channels appear on four
speakON connectors on the rear of the DQ Series
amplifiers. i-C15 loudspeakers require one
amplifier channel.
6.3 - Use with the DQ Series Advanced System Amplifiers
The i-C15 will perform best when using DQ Series advanced system amplifiers, as not only are they
state-of-the-art amplifiers, but the onboard DSP provides appropriate high/low pass filter settings
and limiters to get the best from your loudspeakers. Please refer to the DQ Series User Manual for
detailed information on using the amplifiers and the System Engineer software.
6.3.1 - Connections
6.3.2 - Preset Recall
The i-C15 preset is pre-installed on the DQ amplifiers, and as such can be used following
the normal preset recall procedure. The presets available are:
i-C15.full Standard i-C15 preset
As mentioned above, these presets are intended to be a starting point and additional work
may be required depending on the venue, the style of content and the end result you are
looking for.

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4-core cable from amplifier to first i-C15 loudspeaker.
Signal for first loudspeaker on pins 1+/1-, signal for second
i-C15 loudspeaker on pins 2+/2-.
4-core “crossover” cable wired as detailed below used to link
between the two loudspeakers. This will ensure the second
i-C15 loudspeaker is fed from the signal carried on pins 2+/2-
of the original cable
6.4 - System Connectivity
6.4.1 - Cable Length and Specification
All cables add to the system impedance, and as such careful selection is required depending on your
amplifier setup and overall system impedance. Cables with a cross sectional area of less than
2.5mm2should not be used. Recommended maximum cable lengths are given below:
Conductor Area Maximum Recommended Cable Length
2 ohms 4 ohms 8 ohms
2.5mm2(14 AWG) 15m 30m 60m
4.0mm2(12 AWG) 20m 40m 80m
6.0mm2(10 AWG) 30m 60m 120m
6.4.2 – Crossover Cable Use
The use of a pin-swap or “crossover” cable can allow for neater cable solutions when
sending different amplifier signals to the same location. Because pins 2+/2- are linked
through inside all EM Acoustics loudspeakers, using a 4-core cable to one loudspeaker
(carrying two different signals) allows a crossover cable to be used to link out of the first
loudspeaker into another, thereby feeding it from a separate signal.
Crossover cable specifications
Connector A Pin Connector B Pin
1+ 2+
1- 2-
2+ 1+
2- 1-

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7.0 – Servicing Information
All i-C15 components can be removed for service purposes if required, using the minimum of tools.
7.1 – i-C15: Removing the grille
TOOLS REQUIRED: 4mm Allen key
1. Lie the enclosure on its’ back and remove the two M6x30 countersunk socket screws from each end
using a 4mm Allen key, and then lift the grille clear of the cabinet.
2. To replace the grille, position the grille on the front of the i-C15 and ensure the threaded fittings on
the grille are lined up with the mounting holes – gentle pressure may be required. Replace all of the
M6x30 countersunk socket screws and ensure they are all are started in their threads before
beginning to tighten. Ensure they are all tightened evenly so that the grille sits straight and does
not rattle. Be careful not to over-tighten as this will distort the grille.
M6x30 countersunk socket
machine screws