Equator q series User manual

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
©2008 Equator Audio Research, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 1
Equator Q Series User Guide
Q8 | Q10 | Q12 | Q15
Equator Room Analysis
Automated RRC & SRC Software

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
©2008 Equator Audio Research, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 2
Important
Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. A polarized
plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades
and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety.
If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of
the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories provided by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or
sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been
spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture.
16. Where the mains plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the
disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
17. These servicing instructions are for use by qualified personnel only. To reduce the risk of
electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operating
instructions unless you are qualified to do so.

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
©2008 Equator Audio Research, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 3
18. Do not install this equipment in a confined space such as a book case or similar unit.
Maintain minimum 10cm free space around the apparatus for sufficient ventilation. The
ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items, such as
newspapers, table-cloths, curtains, etc.
19. No naked flame sources should be used in moderate climate.
20. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects filled
with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
21. Due to the mains switch being located on the rear panel, the apparatus must be located
in the open area with no obstructions to access the mains switch.
22. The apparatus shall be connected to the mains socket with a protective earthing
connection.
Explanation of Graphic Symbols
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the users of the
presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the product.
The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is to alert the
user to the presence of insulated “dangerous voltage” within the products enclosure that
may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to humans.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER. THERE
ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER ALL SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL.

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
©2008 Equator Audio Research, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 4
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing Equator Audio Research monitors and the optional Equator Room
Analysis software/microphone kit.
All Q Series monitors feature a Zero-Point Reference™ coaxial design with Digitally-
Controlled Transducers™ that feature a true compression driver/horn. A CPU that resides
inside each Equator monitor handles a host of formidable tasks, including matching each
transducer to a perfectly matched frequency response output as well as seamlessly
incorporating our unique “no-slope” crossover approach. This approach reduces midrange
distortion that is commonly associated with conventional coaxial designs. The result is
highly accurate, natural sounding mid-range reproduction without the harshness. Because
we use a real compression driver/horn along with a “no-slope” crossover, we are able to
achieve very high sound pressure levels without the midrange pain. Be careful!
These two tasks (transducer matching & our “no-slope” crossover) are invisible to the end-
user and are automatically handled by the internal CPU.
The Q Series monitors benefit from cutting-edge DSP technology that helps mix engineers
ensure the monitors are optimized for the room. Included with every Equator Q Series
monitor is the Equator Control software application. This software enables interaction with
the monitors providing the ability to manually compensate for acoustic anomalies created by
the size of the room, speaker placement, and boundary conditions within the listening
environment. Along with the environmental compensation, the software also provides
extraordinary control over the monitors—including equalization, mute, solo, phase, and
save/recall of user created settings.
The optional Equator Room Analysis software/microphone kit features Secondary-
Reflection Correction™. This software fully automates the precise analysis and
compensation of room response characteristics. The SRC identifies and compensates for
secondary reflections created by sound waves bouncing off of mixing consoles, computer
screens and other reflective surfaces which when combined with the original direct sound
energy will result in comb-filtering due to phase cancellation. To ensure accuracy, the kit
includes a quality-controlled & calibrated measurement microphone.

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Monitor Features
Digitally-Controlled Transducers™
An on-board CPU digitally adjusts the driver components to exacting specifications. Other
benefits include a continuously adjusting crossover (no preset filter slope) and the ability to
perfectly match every transducer in the system at our factory for use with 2.0, 2.1, 5.1,
6.1, 7.1, and 8.2.
Zero-Point Reference™Coaxial Design
Two drivers, one sonic point source, allowing for perfect audio alignment between the low
and high frequency transducer on the X, Y, and Z axis. The result: superb imaging,
enhanced off-axis response, and exceptional midrange clarity.
High Definition Titanium Compression Horn Driver
The custom titanium compression driver delivers exceptionally precise, detailed, and
accurate high frequency response as well as providing high SPL. The horn’s uniquely
designed throat section creates an extended horizontal high frequency dispersion pattern,
and provides superior off-axis response in both the vertical and horizontal planes.
Fiberglass-Impregnated Low Frequency Driver
Fashioned from a blended fiberglass/pulp mixture, the woofer cone material was chosen for
its’ strength and damping characteristics.
Multi-Function Status Display
The multi-segment LED allows you to monitor power protection, network communication,
volume, and compression/limiting.
Cast Aluminum CAD Coaxial Driver Basket
A performance-enhancing top plate for the woofer’s magnet assembly cools the voice coil
and provides a significant increase in midrange performance. The driver basket also serves
as a heat sink, allowing the speaker to run cooler at high power levels.
13-Ply Baltic Birch Resonant Damping Cabinet
The enclosures sides and back are constructed from 13-Ply Baltic Birch; the sculptured front
baffle is 1” HDF. Together they provide the optimum combination of acoustic damping and
enclosure strength. All are equipped with rubber pads and OmniMount™ compatible
mounting holes:
Q8 & Q10 use OmniMount™ model 60.0WBB.
Q12 & Q15 use OmniMount™ model 120.0WBW
The Q12 and Q15 are also equipped with side-mounted handles for easy transportation.

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Monitor Features Continued
Continuous-Flow Low Turbulence Bass Ports
Two large, long, low air-restriction bass ports provide turbulence-free, quiet operation
resulting in a dramatic low-end punch.
Their Look is as Refined as their Performance
Serious attention was spent developing not only the sound of the Q Series monitors, but
their look and feel as well. Their perfect cubed shape and symmetry delivers the biggest
possible sound in the smallest possible foot print. As unique on the outside as they are
inside, the Q’s size, shape and rich durable finish make them the perfect complement to any
studio environment.
Includes Equator Control Application
The Q Series DSP allows control over the speaker’s accuracy and response in the mixing
environment. Enter the room’s dimensions into the software and the monitors digitally
compensate for three major standing waves (front to back wall, left to right wall, & floor to
ceiling).
Optional Equator Room Analysis Application/Microphone Kit
The optional Equator Room Analysis software/microphone kit featuring Secondary-Reflection
Correction™, fully automates the precise analysis and compensation of existing sonic
conditions at the microphone position. It also identifies and compensates for secondary
reflections created by sound waves bouncing off of mixing consoles, computer screens and
other reflective surfaces which when combined with the original direct sound energy will
result in comb-filtering due to phase cancellation.

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Unpack the Monitor
The Q Series shipping carton was designed to protect the monitor during transport. Do Not
Discard these Materials.
Inspect Carefully
If there is any damage, immediately report it to the dealer or contact Equator Audio
Research directly by emailing [e-mail] or by calling 1-888-772-0087.
Monitor Package Contents
Q Monitor
AC Power Cord
CDROM (Instruction Manual/Equator Control Software Installer)
Optional Room Analysis Package Contents
Equator Teak Wood Protective Case
Equator USB Flash Drive (Contains Instruction Manual/Equator Room Analysis
Software Installer)
Equator Calibrated Measurement Microphone
Equator Microphone Clip
Microphone Windscreen
Equator Room Analysis Software/Microphone Kit

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
©2008 Equator Audio Research, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 8
Setting Up
Stereo Setup
There is not a visual left or right distinction between the monitors as all speakers within a
model group are physically identical.
Following the equilateral triangle rule, position the monitors so that each monitor and the
listener form a perfect equilateral triangle. Angle them inwards so that the horn is facing
the ears of listener while seated at the mix position. They should be positioned at a height
so that the center of the horn is at the same height as the ears of the user.
The optional Room Analysis software is capable of distinguishing and compensating for
placement variances and boundary conditions. It is, however, advised to start the basic
speaker placement setup adhering to the equilateral triangle rule as outlined above.

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
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Setting Up Continued
The Q8 and Q10 models have a universal power transformer which allows them to be used
at either 100-120v or 200-240v. The Q12, Q15, and Q18 are set internally at the factory
for use with 100-120v or 200-240v and are labeled as such on the back panel of the
amplifier for reference. Do not attempt to change these settings or the factory warranty will
be void.
Connect AC Power Cable
Connect each monitor to a power source using supplied AC power cable. DO NOT POWER
ON MONITOR YET
OS Compatibility (for use with Equator Control Software & Equator Room Analysis)
Mac OS X 10.4 or higher
Windows XP
Connect USB Cable
Create a USB connection between a computer and the USB port on the back of any Q
monitor. DO NOT POWER ON MONITOR YET
Connect CAT5 Network Cable(s)
Plug a CAT5 network cable into the THRU port on the Q monitor that is connected to the
computer via USB and plug the other end of the CAT5 cable into the IN port on the next Q
monitor within the system. If there are additional Q monitors within the system, “Daisy-
Chain” from monitor to monitor from THRU to IN.

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Setting Up Continued
Configure ID Switches
Speaker ID
ID switches 1, 2, 3, & 4 correspond to the speaker position within the room and will be
reflected as such within the Equator software. Use the legend on the back of each monitor
to determine ID positions based upon speaker placement (Front Left, Front Center, etc…)
Within the Legend:
1 = UP
0 = DOWN
In a stereo setup, the front left speaker ID switch (No. 1) is set in an upward position and
switches 2, 3, & 4 are in the down position. The right speaker ID switches (No. 1 & 2) are
both set in an upward position and switches 3 & 4 are in the down position.
System Groups
ID Switches 5 & 6 determines the System Group. These two switches allow up to four
separate groups of monitors to be networked together and called up independently within
Equator software. Each of these groups can be configured from stereo all the way up to 8.2.
In the stereo setup example (above image), switches 5 & 6 are set to the down position (0
0) which reflects System Group 1 as shown on the legend above.
Reserved
ID Switch No. 7 is reserved. It should always be set to the down position.
Room Correction
ID Switch No. 8 in the active up position allows communication between each Q Series
monitor and the Equator software.

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Setting Up Continued
To bypass room compensation without using Equator software, power down the monitor
and set ID Switch No. 8 to the down position. Power the monitor back on. This will restore
the factory defaults with the exception of user-applied tone contour. Previously
programmed tone contour data stays resident within the monitor until new tone contour
values are loaded from within Equator software. DO NOT POWER ON MONITORS YET
Connect Audio Cables
Connect the outputs of the playback device or mixing console to the appropriate analog
audio input on the back of each monitor. Q Series monitors can accommodate both XLR
and ¼” cables that are wired for either balanced or unbalanced operation. For balanced
operation consult the Input Connector Wiring diagram located on the back panel of a Q
monitor. DO NOT POWER ON MONITORS YET

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Installing Equator Room Analysis Software
Mac OS X 10.4 (or higher) Users
Browse the included CDROM and locate a file called SLAB_USB to UART Installer. Double-
click the file and follow the on-screen prompts.
After rebooting your computer, continue the installation by double-clicking the Equator
Room Analyzer file. Follow the on-screen prompts to finish installing the software.

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Installing Equator Room Analysis Software Continued

Equator Room Analysis User Guide v2.0
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Installing Equator Room Analysis Software Continued
Software installation complete.
Windows XP Users
It should be noted that Windows based installations do not require an additional install of a
USB specific driver. Simply insert the included CDROM and locate the folder named
Equator Room Analyzer. Double-click on the file named setup.exe and follow the on-
screen prompts.
After the installation is complete, you can power on the monitors.

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Using Equator Room Analysis Software
Mac OS X 10.4 (or higher) Users
Browse to your applications folder and select APPLICATIONS > EQUATOR ROOM
ANALYSIS to launch the software.
Windows XP Users
Go to START > ALL PROGRAMS > EQUATOR ROOM ANALYSIS to launch the software.
Upon launching the Equator application, the software will initialize and interrogate the
system looking for all networked Q Series monitors. As long as the ID Switches and cable
connections on the back the monitors are correct, Equator software will populate the screen
with all monitors identified within Speaker Group 1 or however Speaker Group 1 was last
titled from within the software. In the example below, Speaker Group 1 had been renamed
Stereo Setup.
After the software has been launched, alternate speaker groups are selectable from the
speaker group drop-down menu at the top center portion of this screen. Selecting a new
speaker group repopulates the software screen with the data of the newly selected monitor
group.
Example: Switching to a 5.1 speaker group would populate the screens with six speakers,
each with Solo, Mute, and Select buttons. As well as all other appropriate data within each
tab.
Global Controls
Compare, Solo, Mute, Select, Bypass ALL, Mute ALL and Group Selection are available on
every tab and will be explained in more detail throughout this user guide.

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Using Equator Room Analysis Software Continued
Tab 1 Before You Begin
Tab 1 displays the software version installed. Latest versions can be downloaded at
http://www.equatoraudio.com/software.htm

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Using Equator Room Analysis Software Continued
System Configuration
Which speaker is connected to USB?
Select the speaker that is connected to the computer’s USB port.
Which Speaker Group?
Select the Speaker Group that the USB connected speaker belongs to.
Scan for Speakers: The Scan for Speakers button is used to interrogate the system
searching for all speakers that are “Daisy-Chained” (networked) together with CAT5 cable.
Speaker Group Names: This allows for naming Speaker Groups 1 – 4. Group 1 was
renamed Stereo Setup.
Distance Units: Values throughout the software can be displayed in either Feet or Meters.
Speaker LED Brightness: Allows control over the brightness of the volume LEDs on the
speakers themselves.

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Using Equator Room Analysis Software Continued
Audio Configuration
The software addresses issues created by speaker placement, boundary conditions, and
secondary reflections by examining the chosen position with the calibrated microphone. It
then automatically feeds each speaker’s internal CPU the acquired data, which then, in turn,
compensates the Digitally Controlled Transducers™ adjusting for any and all sonic
anomalies that might exist at that position.
Placing the Microphone
Select an area in the room to be analyzed. A good first choice is the engineer’s mix
position. Place the supplied measurement microphone vertically at ear level where the
engineer would sit.
Multiple locations can be measured, compensated, titled, stored, and recalled so the
engineer can monitor properly at the mix position, the producer can hear it accurately at his
desk, and the band can listen from the control room couch by recalling the appropriate RMC
file (explained later).

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Using Equator Room Analysis Software Continued
All enabled computer DAW input devices connected to the computer will automatically
appear within the Microphone Input Device drop-down menu. Select the appropriate
Microphone Input Device that the Equator measurement microphone is connected to
Select the microphone input channel as well. In this case channel 1.
The software automatically displays and enables the Equator model speaker networked.
By default, Speaker Group 1 is displayed upon launch. Speaker Groups are determined by
5 & 6 set to the down position (Group 1, renamed Stereo Setup). If multiple groups are
networked within a system, use the speaker group drop-down menu at the top of the screen
to switch to an alternative group. The speaker model number for any selected group will be
displayed in its appropriate speaker location (determined by ID Switch No. 1–6). If the
anticipated speaker does not appear, there is likely an error in the ID Switch settings and/or
network cable connections.
Select the DAW Audio Output Device that is connected to the audio input on the back of
the speakers and select Channel 1 for the left speaker, channel 2 for the right speaker.
Click the test button and adjust the audio output device so there is a significant amount of
pink noise being heard through the monitors. Now adjust the microphone preamp input
level and make sure it is not clipping. Confirm that the microphone input meter within our
software has registered well into the green. If not, increase the output of the DAW device
until our meters do register well into the green, almost hitting red.
ID Switches No. 5 & 6. In this case, a pair of Q8’s networked together with ID Switch No.

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Using Equator Room Analysis Software Continued
Automated RRC
The Automated RRC tab is used to send a noise-blast and frequency sweep through each
speaker for the microphone to gather sonic conditions at that location.
Determine the longest dimension within your room and enter no less than that value into
the cell marked Longest Room Dimension. In this case, it is 15 feet. This dimension
determines the length of the Auto RRC test/measurement procedure. The larger the
“longest room dimension” is, the longer the test will run. It is recommended to round up to
next whole number. If the room dimension for instance is 14’ 5”, the test will register
accurately when rounded up to 15’. Rounding the number down to 14’ is not recommended
and could compromise results as the test was not allocated enough time to provide an
accurate assessment.
The intent of the Countdown is to clear the room of unwanted personnel that can alter the
room response and to maintain a clear path between the speakers and the microphone.
The
defeated by clicking on the green button. Tutorial: www.equatoraudio.com/rrc.mov
Announce Test announces an additional five second notice to stand clear. It can be