Martin Audio Blackline F10 User manual

Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
CONTENTS (ENGLISH) Page No
1 INTRODUCTION 2
2 UNPACKING 2
3 F8, F10 AND S12 OVERVIEW 2
3.1 F8 Full-range system 3
3.2 F10 Full-range system 3
3.3 S12 Sub-bass system 4
3.4 Grille removal 4
4 SAFETY FIRST 5
5 AMPLIFICATION 6
6 CONNECTIONS 7
7 CABLE LENGTHS 7
8 SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS 7
8.1 Passive systems 8
8.2 Bi-amped systems 9
9 WARRANTY 10
10 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 11
MARTIN AUDIO
LONDON
The Martin Experience
All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

1 INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a Martin Audio Blackline Series system. The
Blackline Series is a range of portable loudspeaker enclosures designed for
a variety of portable sound reinforcement and club applications.
Blackline products covered in this user’s guide include the F8 and F10 full-
range systems and S12 sub-bass enclosure.
For optimum performance, it is recommended that Blackline Series systems
be used with an M3 or DX1 electronic controller. The controller provides
crossover, EQ and limiter functions for bi-amped Blackline configurations
and may also be used as an optional equaliser and limiter for the full-range
F8 and F10. Please refer to the M3 or DX1 user’s guide for further
information.
2 UNPACKING
Each Martin Audio Blackline Series loudspeaker is built to the highest
standard and thoroughly inspected before it leaves the factory. After
unpacking the system, examine it carefully for any signs of transit damage
and inform your dealer if any such damage is found. It is suggested that
you retain the original packaging so that the system can be repacked at a
future date if necessary. Please note that Martin Audio and its distributors
cannot accept any responsibility for damage to any returned product
through the use of non-approved packaging.
3 F8, F10, S12 OVERVIEW
The Blackline F8, F10 and S12 are ideally suited to applications that
require very compact size, high output and ease of transportation. They
also make ideal fill-in speakers for use with larger Blackline systems and
their very small size is particularly useful in situations that require visually
discrete monitors.
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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This equipment conforms to the requirements of the
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, amended by 92/31/EEC
and 93/68/EEC and 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
All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

3.1 F8 Full-range system
(Fig 1)
The F8 is a versatile, 2-way passive system designed for applications
where high output is required from an ultra-compact enclosure. It features
a long excursion 8" (200mm) low frequency driver and a 1" (25mm) HF
compression driver mounted on a constant directivity 90˚ x 50˚ horn.
With its multi-angle cabinet and rotatable horn, it can be tripod mounted or
used as an ultra-compact floor monitor. To rotate the horn for horizontal
use, remove the grille (see 3.4 below), unscrew the horn and rotate it
through 90 degrees.
The enclosure is provided with ten M8 threaded inserts and four M6 bracket
inserts for a variety of mounting configurations. It is also provided with a
top hat fitting for use with a tripod or as a pole socket for mounting above a
Blackline subwoofer.
Use of a controller with the F8 is optional. For demanding applications, use
with an M3 or DX1 electronic controller is recommended.
3.2 F10 Full-range system
(Fig 2)
The F10 is a 2-way passive system, designed to provide exceptional club
sound reinforcement and stage monitoring from a very compact enclosure.
It features a powerful 10" (250mm) low frequency driver and a 1" (25mm)
HF compression driver mounted on a constant directivity 90˚ x 50˚ horn.
Depending on the application, the HF horn can be rotated to allow the
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

multi-angle enclosure to be used in either its vertical or horizontal
orientation. To rotate the horn for horizontal use, remove the grille (see 3.4
below), unscrew the horn and rotate it through 90 degrees.
The enclosure is provided with ten M8 threaded inserts and four M8 bracket
inserts for a variety of mounting configurations. It is also provided with a top
hat fitting for use with a tripod or as a pole socket for mounting above a
Blackline subwoofer.
Use of a controller with the F10 is optional. For demanding applications,
use with an M3 or DX1 electronic is recommended.
3.3 S12 Sub-bass system
(Fig 3)
The S12 is an extremely compact sub-bass system. It has been designed
for use with the F8 and F10 full-range loudspeakers systems in situations
where extended low frequency output and increased system headroom are
required. When used with an F8 or F10, it will extend the response of the
complete system to below 45Hz.
It features a high power 12" (300mm)/3" (75mm) voice coil, long excursion
drive unit reflex loaded in a birch plywood enclosure. It can operate in
either passive add-on mode using its own internal switchable passive
network or may be used actively with an M3 or DX1 controller. In the active
configuration, the controller will provide crossover, EQ and limiter functions
for the S12 and F8/F10 combination. Please refer to the M3 or DX1 user’s
guide for further information.
The S12 is provided with a top hat fitting that can be used as a pole socket
to mount an F8 or F10 above the enclosure.
3.4 Grille Removal
To remove the grille, first remove any grille retaining screws. The grille can
then be removed by inserting a flat bladed screwdriver under one of the
notches at the top and bottom of the grille then gently levering the grille out
of the side channels.
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

4 SAFETY FIRST
It is important that loudspeaker systems are used in a safe manner. Please
take some time to review the following points concerning safe use of
Blackline Series loudspeakers.
Professional loudspeakers are capable of producing extremely high sound
levels and should be used with care. Hearing loss is cumulative and can
result from levels above 90dB if people are exposed for a long period.
Never stand close to loudspeakers driven at a high level.
Tripod Mounting
The F8 and F10 incorporate a pole mounting socket to facilitate mounting
on tripod stands. When using stands, the following precautions are
advised:
Ensure that the stand will support the weight of the speaker by checking
the stand manufacturers rating.
Make sure that the stand is placed on a level surface and that its legs are
fully extended.
Do not place more than one speaker on each stand.
Run cables so that they do not present a trip hazard which could pull the
speaker over.
When used outdoors in the wind, it may be necessary to add some weight
to the base of the stand.
When using a pole mount with a sub-bass system, observe similar
precautions.
Stacking
Ensure that the floor or stage is level and solid.
Do not stack speakers too high outdoors where winds could topple the
stack.
Be aware that speakers producing very high power levels can move or
creep. To avoid this, place friction material between the floor and speaker
and between each speaker.
Rigging and Suspension
WARNING: Suspending the system should only be done by qualified
personnel following safe rigging practices. Secure fixings to the building
structure are vital. Seek help from architects, structural engineers or other
specialists if in any doubt.
Blackline Series enclosures are designed for portable applications, but can
be suspended singly by means of the threaded inserts provided or by
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

compatible Martin Audio wall Brackets. The F8, F10 enclosures are fitted
internally with steel corner reinforcement brackets to ensure that each
cabinet is strong enough to be hung from its top. Never suspend one
enclosure from another to form an array or cluster using these
fittings.
The common practice of using commercially available eye bolts for
suspension should only be undertaken with great caution. Eye bolts are
strongest along the thread axis. Angling the enclosure will result in an angle
pull and it is important to use eye bolts that are safe in these
circumstances. Only forged shoulder eye bolts should be considered and it
is important that the thread length is at least 30mm. A flat washer should be
inserted between the eyebolt and the enclosure. Formed eye bolts i.e.
those which are formed from a steel rod bent into an eye should be
avoided.
5 AMPLIFICATION
The F8, F10, and S12 systems are designed to be used with professional
power amplifiers capable of producing the following power outputs into 4
ohms:
F8 200 –600 W
F10 400 –650 W
S12 400 –800 W
Care should be taken to avoid amplifier clipping. It is important to
understand that a low power amplifier driven into clipping is more likely to
damage a loudspeaker than a higher power amplifier used within its ratings.
This is because music signals have a high peak-to-average "crest" factor.
When an amplifier is severely overdriven, its output waveform is clipped (its
peaks are squared off) –reducing the crest factor. In extreme cases, the
waveform can approach that of a square wave. An amplifier is normally
capable of producing far more power under these conditions than its
undistorted rated power output. The use of very high power amplifiers with
outputs greater than those recommended is discouraged.
Care should be taken to avoid switch-on surges, which can result in
momentary power peaks in excess of specified ratings. When powering up
a sound system it is important to switch on the amplifiers after the mixer
and control electronics have stabilised. When powering down the system,
reverse the sequence and switch off the amplifiers first.
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

6 CONNECTIONS
Each connector panel has two Neutrik Speakon connectors wired in parallel
with each other. The second connector allows use of a short link lead to
power another parallel loudspeaker. The connectors are wired as follows:
F8/F10/S12 Passive
(Fig 4)
7 CABLE LENGTHS
When connecting Blackline systems to an amplifier, it is recommended that
the return resistance of the cable used is less than one tenth of the nominal
impedance of the system or systems in parallel. The table below gives an
indication of the maximum permissible cable runs for various conductor
cross-sectional areas.
Conductor CSA Maximum Cable Run
4 ohms 8 ohms 16 ohms
1.0mm211m 22m 44m
1.5mm217m 34m 68m
2.0mm222m 44m 88m
2.5mm229m 58m 116m
4.0mm244m 88m 176m
6.0mm266m 132m 264m
8 SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS
There are many different system combinations possible when the F8 and
F10 full-range systems are used with the S12 and other Blackline sub-bass
systems. Shown below are some typical configurations. The number of F8
or F10 full-range systems required to match the efficiency of one sub-bass
system is shown as a recommended cabinet ratio (RCR). Please note that
for simplicity each line in the diagram represents a pair of wires.
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

8.1 Passive systems
F8/F10 Full-range
(Fig 5)
Because the F8 and F10 are passive systems embodying correct acoustic
design principles, they can be used without a controller provided
recommended amplifier power is not exceeded and care is taken to avoid
amplifier clipping. Use of an optional M3 or DX1 controller with its system
specific low frequency EQ and built-in limiters will result in improved bass
response and system protection.
F8/F10 Full-range with add-on S12/S15
The F8 and F10 can be used with either the S12 or S15 in passive add-on
mode. For maximum bass power, it is also possible to combine the F10
passively with an S18 sub-bass.
The passive add-on arrangement provides a simple way of increasing bass
performance without the need for an additional amplifier. The switch at the
back of the sub-bass enclosure should be switched to "passive" and a link
lead run from the sub-bass to the F8 or F10. This configuration will present
a 4 ohm load to the amplifier. An M3 or DX1 controller for this passive
configuration is optional –just performing limiting functions without any
additional system EQ.
F8 with S12/S15 RCR = 2:1
F10 with S18 RCR = 2:1
(Fig 6)
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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F8 or F10
Figure 5 Full range
Passive - one channel
Ch2
Out
Left
IN Optional
M3 Controller
Blackline M3
Amplifier L Ch.
Figure 6 Add-on
sub-woofer for RCR=2.
Right Satellite
Left Satellite
Sub-Woofer
Right
IN
Left
IN
Ch4
Out
Ch2
Out
Amplifier L Ch.
Amplifier R Ch.
Optional
M3 Controller
Blackline M3
All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

F10 with S12/S15 RCR = 1:1
(Fig 7)
8.2 Bi-amped systems
The switch at the back of the sub-bass enclosure should be switched to
"active".
F8 with S12/S15 RCR = 2:1
F10 with S18 RCR = 2:1
(Fig 8)
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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Sub-Woofer
Right
IN
Blackline M3
Left
IN
Optional
M3 Controller
Right Satellite
Left Satellite
Ch2
Out
Figure 7 Add-on
sub-woofer for RCR=1.
Ch4
Out
Amplifier L Ch.
Amplifier R Ch.
Sub-Woofer
All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

F10 with S12/S15 RCR = 1:1
(Fig 9)
9 WARRANTY
Martin Audio Blackiline Series products are warranted against
manufacturing defects in materials or craftsmanship over a period of 5
years from the date of original purchase. During the warranty period Martin
Audio will, at it’s discretion, either repair or replace products which prove to
be defective provided that the product is returned in its original packaging,
shipping prepaid, to an authorised Martin Audio service agent or distributor.
Martin Audio Ltd. cannot be held responsible for defects caused by
unauthorised modifications, improper use, neglegence, exposure to
inclement weather conditions, act of God or accident, or any use of this
product that is not in accordance with the instructions provided by Martin
Audio. Martin Audio is not liable for consequental damages.
This warranty is exlusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied.
This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

10 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
F8
TYPE Ultra-compact, two way passive
FREQUENCY RESPONSE (1) 70Hz-20kHz ± 3dB
LOW FREQUENCY LIMIT 55Hz (-10dB)
DRIVERS 1 x 8" (200mm)/2"(50mm) voice coil LF driver
1 x 1" (25mm) exit HF compression driver
RATED POWER (2) 150W AES, 600W peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 200-600W into 4 ohms
SENSITIVITY (3) 93dB
MAXIMUM SPL (4) 113dB continuous, 119dB peak
IMPEDANCE 8 ohms nominal
DISPERSION (-6DB) 90˚H x 50˚V
CROSSOVER 2.5kHz passive
ENCLOSURE 14.8 litre (0.5 cu foot) vented, multi-
laminate birch ply
FINISH Textured black paint
PROTECTIVE GRILLE Black perforated steel
CONNECTORS 2 x Neutrik Speakon NL4
FITTINGS 10 x M8 threaded inserts
4 x M6 inserts for HTKM10 wall bracket
1 x top hat fitting
DIMENSIONS (W) 299mm x (H) 435mm x (D) 269mm
(W) 11.8ins x (H) 17.1ins x (D) 10.6ins
WEIGHT 12kg (26lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 330mm x (H) 600mm x (D) 620mm
(W) 13ins x (H) 23.7ins x (D) 24.5ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 27.5kg (60.5lbs) (packed in pairs)
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

F10
TYPE Compact, two way passive
FREQUENCY RESPONSE (1) 65Hz-20kHz ± 3dB
LOW FREQUENCY LIMIT 56Hz (-10dB)
DRIVERS 1 x 10" (250mm)/2 1/2"(63mm) voice coil LF driver
1 x 1" (25mm) exit HF compression driver
RATED POWER (2) 300W AES, 1200W peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 400-650W into 4 ohms
SENSITIVITY (3) 96dB
MAXIMUM SPL (4) 119dB continuous, 125dB peak
IMPEDANCE 8 ohms nominal
DISPERSION (-6DB) 90˚H x 50˚V
CROSSOVER 2kHz passive
ENCLOSURE 23 litre (0.8 cu foot) vented,
multi-laminate birch ply
FINISH Textured black paint
PROTECTIVE GRILLE Black perforated steel
CONNECTORS 2 x Neutrik Speakon NL4
FITTINGS 10 x M8 threaded inserts
4 x M8 inserts for HTKM20 wall bracket
1 x top hat fitting
DIMENSIONS (W) 351mm x (H) 500mm x (D) 317mm
(W) 13.8ins x (H) 19.7ins x (D) 12.5ins
WEIGHT 17kg (37lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 430mm x (H) 470mm x (D) 580mm
(W) 17ins x (H) 18.5ins x (D) 23ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 20kg (44lbs)
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

S12
TYPE Compact sub-bass system
FREQUENCY RESPONSE (1) 52Hz-150Hz ± 3dB
LOW FREQUENCY LIMIT 43Hz (-10dB)
DRIVER 1 x 12" (300mm)/3" (75mm) voice coil LF driver
RATED POWER (2) 400W AES, 1600W peak
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER 400-800W into 4 ohms
SENSITIVITY (3) 96dB
MAXIMUM SPL (4) 120dB continuous, 126dB peak
IMPEDANCE 8 ohms nominal
CROSSOVER 120Hz, switchable passive/active
ENCLOSURE 55 litre (1.94 cu foot) vented,
multi-laminate birch ply
FINISH Textured black paint
PROTECTIVE GRILLE Black perforated steel
CONNECTORS 2 x Neutrik Speakon NL4
FITTINGS 1 x top hat fitting
DIMENSIONS (W) 398mm x (H) 571mm x (D) 364mm
(W) 15.6ins x (H) 22.5ins x (D) 14.3ins
WEIGHT 20kg (44lbs)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS (W) 480mm x (H) 510mm x (D) 660mm
(W) 19ins x (H) 20ins x (D) 26ins
SHIPPING WEIGHT 28kg (61.5lbs)
Notes
1. Measured on-axis in half space at 2 metres, then referred to 1 metre.
2. AES Standard ANSI S4.26-1984.
3. Measured in half space conditions at 2 metres with 1 watt input, using band limited pink noise,
then referred to 1 metre.
4. Measured in half space conditions at 2 metres using band limited pink noise, then
referred to 1 metre.
Due to our policy of continuous improvement all specifications are subject
to change without notice.
Martin Audio – Blackline F8, F10, S12
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All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.

Blackline F8/F10/S12
Century Point, Halifax Road, Cressex Business Park, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP12 3SL, England.
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MARTIN AUDIO
LONDON
The Martin Experience
ENGLISH
Blackline F8/F10/S12
User’s Guide
All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.