MJ Acoustics Reference 150 User manual

Page 16
Name:……………………………………………………………………………..……
Address:………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………….
Store where purchased: ………………………………………………………………..
Model REFERENCE 150MkII
Date of purchase:…………………………….Serial number:…………………………
MJ ACOUSTICS warrants to the original purchaser only, that this product is free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use within three years from date of purchase, in the United Kingdom only, provided that
registration is submitted to M J Acoustics within 28 days from date of purchase. All parts, except the external cabinet
finish are warranted as stated from date of purchase. Under this warranty M J Acoustics agrees to repair any defect or at
the company’s discretion, replace the faulty component(s) without charge for parts and labour provided the unit is returned
carriage paid both ways. Defective parts will be replaced if in the sole judgement of MJ ACOUSTICS they be deemed
defective over and above that considered to be normal wear and tear.
This warranty does not apply to equipment showing abuse, misuse, neglect or damage or to parts that in the judgement of
MJ ACOUSTICS are not defective or have been used for purposes outside the scope of its design , nor does it extend to
any equipment which may have been tampered with, altered or repaired outside an authorised MJ ACOUSTICS service
station, and on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed. This warranty is in lieu of any other
warranty expressed or implied and there is no other warranty or warranties valid for your purchase. No one is authorised
to assume any liability on behalf of MJ ACOUSTICS or impose any obligation on it in connection with the sale of any
equipment other than as stated in this warranty and outlined above.
MJ ACOUSTICS’ liability, for any defective product, is limited to repair or replacement of the product, at our sole option.
MJ ACOUSTICS shall not be liable or responsible, under any circumstances, for such indirect or consequential damages
as from interrupted operations or other causes howsoever related. Additionally the Reference 150 is not intended for use
in a commercial environment and the warranty applies for domestic use only.
If your unit requires service it should be sent to MJ ACOUSTICS service department, any shipping charges are the
responsibility of the owner, this includes return shipping charges. SERVICE DEPARTMENT:- MJ Acoustics, Service
Department, 9 Venture Court, Boleness Road, WISBECH, Cambridgeshire. PE13 2XQ
WARRANTY
Reference150 User’s Manual
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Please print clearly
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 1
User’s Manual
Model
Reference 150MkII
Table of Contents
Safety Instructions ………………….. page 2
Precautions ………………….. page 3
Introduction ………………….. page 3 - 4
Display Menu ..…...…..……….. page 5 - 6
Memories ………………….. page 6
Connectivity ………………….. page 7 - 8
High Level Lead …………………… page 9
Panel Layout & Features …………….. page 10 - 12
Remote & Remote Eye ….………..….. page 12
Set-up Hints & Tips ………………….. page 13
Specifications & Contents ….…..…… page 14
Warranty ………………….. page 16
Natural Bass Impact Unparalleled in the Entertainment Environment
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Professional Reference Sub-Woofer
For Home Cinema,
Audiophile Specialists & Studios

Page 2
"WARNING"
“TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN
OR MOISTURE.”
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read Instructions - All the safety and operating instructions
should be read before the appliance is operated.
2. Retain Instructions - The safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the
operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions - All operating and use instructions
should be followed.
5. Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used
near water - for example, near a wet basement, or near a
swimming pool, and the like.
6. Carts and Stands - The appliance should be used only with
a flight case or stand that is recommended by the
manufacturer.
7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting - The appliance should be
mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the
manufacturer.
8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its
location or position does not interfere with its proper
ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be
situated such that may block ventilation openings: or,
placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or
cabinet that may impede the flow of air over the amplifier
panel and or heatsink finns.
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE
OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT. FULLY INSERT.
ATTENTION:
POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES,
INTRODUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE
DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET
POUSSER JUSQU AU FOND.
9. Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat output devices, or other
appliances that produce heat.
10. Power Sources - The appliance should be connected to a
power supply only of the type described in the operating
instructions or as marked on the appliance.
11. Grounding or polarization - Precautions should be taken
so that the grounding or polarization means of an
appliance is not defeated.
12. Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be
routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or
pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying
particular attention to cords and plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
appliance.
13. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as
recommended by the manufacturer.
14. Nonuse Periods - The power cord of the appliance should
be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long
period of time.
15. Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be taken so that
objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled onto the
enclosure paying particular attention to the amplifier
panel.
16. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be
serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged;
or
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled onto the
appliance;
or
C. The appliance has been exposed to rain;
or
D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance;
or
E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure
damaged.
17. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the
appliance. All servicing should be referred to qualified
service personnel.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
Caution: To Reduce Risk of Electric Shock,
Do Not Remove Amplifier.
No User Serviceable Parts Inside.
Refer Servicing to Qualified Personnel.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an
equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 15
Reference150 User’s Manual
MJ ACOUSTICS warrants to the original purchaser only, that this product is free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use within three years from date of purchase, in the United Kingdom only, provided that
registration is submitted to M J Acoustics within 28 days from date of purchase. All parts, except the external cabinet
finish are warranted as stated from date of purchase. Under this warranty M J Acoustics agrees to repair any defect or at
the company’s discretion, replace the faulty component(s) without charge for parts and labour provided the unit is
returned carriage paid both ways. Defective parts will be replaced if in the sole judgement of MJ ACOUSTICS they be
deemed defective over and above that considered to be normal wear and tear.
This warranty does not apply to equipment showing abuse, misuse, neglect or damage or to parts that in the judgement of
MJ ACOUSTICS are not defective or have been used for purposes outside the scope of its design , nor does it extend to
any equipment which may have been tampered with, altered or repaired outside an authorised MJ ACOUSTICS service
station, and on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed. This warranty is in lieu of any other
warranty expressed or implied and there is no other warranty or warranties valid for your purchase. No one is authorised
to assume any liability on behalf of MJ ACOUSTICS or impose any obligation on it in connection with the sale of any
equipment other than as stated in this warranty and outlined above.
MJ ACOUSTICS’ liability, for any defective product, is limited to repair or replacement of the product, at our sole
option. MJ ACOUSTICS shall not be liable or responsible, under any circumstances, for such indirect or consequential
damages as from interrupted operations or other causes howsoever related. Additionally the Reference 150 is not
intended for use in a commercial environment and the warranty applies for domestic use only.
If your unit requires service it should be sent to MJ ACOUSTICS service department, any shipping charges are the
responsibility of the owner, this includes return shipping charges. SERVICE DEPARTMENT:- MJ Acoustics, Service
Department, 9 Venture Court, Boleness Road, WISBECH, Cambridgeshire. PE13 2XQ
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14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)

Page 14
SPECIFICATIONS
150watt MOSFET Amplifier * Speaker and Line Level inputs with Gain Control Range 99dB *
Speakon type connector (High level 100k ohm) * Unbalanced RCA (phono) connectors (Gold
Plated) (Low level 10k ohm) * Twin Sophisticated Crossover Circuits - variable increments
between 20Hz and 120Hz * "LFE Bypass setting * Phase Control infinitely adjustable between 0º
and 180º * Frequency response 13hz to 200hz * D.I.P. (Dynamic Intelligent Protection) * D.A.M.P.
(Digitally Accurate MicroProcessor 2nd generation) * Specially designed cabinet structure, volume,
and configuration made from inert 18 & 25mm MDF * Digital Display with power output meter and
frequency setting * Switched fused IEC mains input socket * 250mm (10”) Ultra Long-throw Driver
with Heavy Duty chassis & Double Magnets * UK 3 year manufacturers return to base warranty *
Dimensions (WxHxD ) 300mm X 300mm X 355mm * Weight 18.23kg (40.2 lbs) * Black Ash finish
as standard with other Real Wood Veneer finishes available.
BOX CONTENTS
Reference150 User’s Manual
Specifications subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. E & O E.
M8 Spikes (1 packet)
See Warning on
Pack
Vibration feet inserts x 4
(place on base of feet to provide additional
friction on smooth floor surfaces)
IEC mains Lead
RM1 Remote System
RM1 Remote RM1 Eye
RCA to RCA (5m) x 1
High Level Lead (10m) x 1
AAA Batteries x 2
Batteries shown—for illustration only
Reference 150MkII x 1
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 3
Location
Avoid using the “Reference150” in the following locations:
* Locations of extreme low or high temperatures, or extreme changes in temperature.
* Sources of heat such as near commercial heaters, fires or other sources of heat.
* Unstable locations or where the unit can fall due to vibration.
* Locations with moisture or dust.
* Locations where electrical voltage varies.
Power Supply
* When unplugging the AC adaptor from the outlet, be sure to grasp the adaptor. Attempting to unplug it by pulling on
the AC cable may damage the wiring or the mains socket on the amplifier.
* Always power-down amplifier and switch off before making any connections.
* It is dangerous to use any power cable that is cut or frayed. If the power cable is damaged, stop using it
immediately, and have it repaired.
* Do not plug in or unplug the AC adaptor with wet hands. Doing so may result in dangerous electric shock.
* Do not remove the amplifier or touch any parts inside. Doing so may result in a dangerous electric shock, and could
damage the delicate electronic circuits. The voltages inside the amplifier are very dangerous.
* Do not let water or other liquids, flammable materials, or metal objects such as pins get inside any of the input
sockets. These things can cause an electrical shock or short circuit the amplifier, and damage it. If the amplifier
should become wet, unplug the AC adaptor from the AC outlet at the wall first, and contact the manufacturers
directly. There are NO user serviceable parts inside.
Precautions
Thank you very much and congratulations on choosing the MJ Acoustics Reference150 Active
Sub-Bass System - a compact active lower octave loudspeaker, designed for stereo and multi-
channel use to provide you outstanding performance with the ultimate in control. The use of a
Subwoofer is essential to provide a proper balanced spectrum of sound.
Please take a few moments to read this manual. The advice offered will enable you to get
the very best performance from your Reference150 subwoofer.
Your Reference150 is shipped from the factory with last on state memory. This feature means
that in the event of a power cut the last on state will be activated when power returns. The
Reference 150 features a critically shaped rigid impregnated paper cone bass driver providing
transparent and dynamic bass registers. Using our specially designed enclosure, dedicated
amplifier and twin active crossover filter systems you have purchased the ultimate Active Sub-
Bass System. By adding the Reference 150 powered sub-bass system to your audio
equipment you will have the benefits of improved transparency and a fully dynamic sound stage.
Introduction
Reference 150 MkII User’s Manual
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)

Page 4
The “Reference 150 ” has twin sophisticated Digitally Accurate Microprocessor controlled
crossover circuits (D.A.M.P. 2nd generation), which incorporate a digital display so that the upper
response limit can be set in musically accurate variable increments between 20hz and 120hz. An
LFE bypass facility is activated at one end of the Lro level controls travel which allows the input
signal to bypass the filter circuit at a fixed 200hz roll-off. The LFE bypass is used where an
already filtered signal is offered to the low level input sockets. An example of this would be a sub
output from a dedicated control pre-amplifier such as found in a Home Cinema system. With twin
crossovers you have the ability to set the crossover point independently for the High Level/Line
Level inputs and the LFE input. Accurately setting your system up for Music and Home Cinema
has never been easier.
There are separate Crossover and Gain controls for HI/LO and LFE level inputs, an LFE bypass
setting and audibly transparent "Dynamic Intelligent Protection" (D.I.P.) circuit, which monitors
the output stages for clipping and limits the cone movement if the amplifier is being over-driven.
A professional Speakon connector is standard for the “Reference 150’s” stereo High Level
input utilising an approved touch proof design to cater for potentially high voltages that can be
connected to it. The “Reference 150” also offers unbalanced Line-Level gold plated RCA
connectors to cater for LO/LFE inputs and LFE loop-out.
Incorporated within this model is our 2nd generation DAMP® offering full digital adjustments of all
features but with that all important analogue feel. All the system functions and adjustments can
be made using a single data rotary control knob. In addition to the main Data rotary control we
provide a further 4 rotary controls for instant access to FREQ and GAIN for the twin independent
crossovers. These 4 rotary controls also provide the means to select and store 4 user presets.
Use of the controls could not be simpler. For the Data control push to select menu item and turn
to adjust. User presets can be selected by a single push on the appropriate rotary control and
push and hold for storing new settings. (See page 6 memories)
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 13
Connect your subwoofer to your audio system using the low level phono interconnect supplied to
the LFE input or the supplied high level lead. Both connections can be made simultaneously.
Please refer to the separate instructions on page 9 for the high level lead connection.
Please ensure:
All control settings are as follows:
gains at –99, 0° phase, and 120hz frequency contour
on first power-up. (Default factory setting)
Music Material
After powering up the sub, audition a piece of music you are familiar with and set the main audio
system volume to your normal listening level. Slowly increase the appropriate gain control on
your Reference 150 to read -40. You should now be experiencing sub-bass in your overall mix.
How much bass output is determined by the setting of the gain control relevant to each input.
Now adjust the relevant frequency contour until you hear the subwoofer output the bandwidth of
bass frequencies your main speakers lack. For example, most large main speakers start to roll
off the bass output at around 40hz – 80hz so this is where the subwoofer should take over.
Movies
After powering up the sub, audition a movie you are familiar with and set the main audio system
volume to your normal listening level. Slowly increase the LFE gain control on your
Reference 150 to read -40. You should now be experiencing the LFE channel. How much
output is determined by the setting of the gain control relevant to the LFE input.
Now adjust the LFE frequency contour until you hear the subwoofer output the LFE bandwidth.
In the case of LFE the setting to start at is 80hz.
Further fine tweaking can be made as you become more familiar with the controls and
adjustments.
SET-UP HINTS & TIPS
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
Note:
Be sure to store your settings as you make adjustments so that they can be recalled in the future.
By doing this you can save settings which are best suited for your own tastes of music or movie
content.
Resetting Factory Default Data:
Should you wish to reset the system back to factory default state then turn the power off and
hold down the DATA button and power up. All settings will be returned back to Factory Default.
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Page 12
Output Meter
On the main display window there is a series of LED’s
which light-up as power output is increased. This is in-
tended as a guide only and provides an indication of how
hard the system is working.
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
Remote Eye
The Infrared Eye in the shape of a small mouse is placed at a location desirable for line of sight
and the jack plug inserted into the panel marked as “Remote”.
RM1
Provides for full remote control of all functions and enables the user to setup the entire listening
sound stage without moving from the listening position. Once settings are stored, and assuming
it is then desirable to turn the Reference150 so that only the cabinet is visible, then this can be
achieved without compromising the remote function. The remote eye feature enables the Ref-
erence 150 to be placed out of sight once setup is complete with user presets easily selectable
by pressing one of the P1 - 4 buttons.
REMOTE RM1
The remote RM1 system comes in two parts to provide optimum flexibility.
Display Description Factory Range
Menu Default
Hi Gain adjustment for RCA & Speakon inputs –99 –99 to 0
Hro Frequency adjustment for RCA & Speakon inputs 120hz 20 to120hz
Lo Gain adjustment for LFE input (via RCA) –99 –99 to 0
Lro Frequency adjustment for LFE input (via RCA) 120hz 20 to120hz
Pha Phase adjustment 0° 0° to 180°
Bri Display Brightness 51 to 5
APO Auto Power Off function in minutes OFF OFF, 10-60
Etr External 12v Trigger input polarity setting Positive Positive or Negative
Aon Auto Power on sensitivity 002 000 to 009
dto Display Timeout OFF Off / On
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 5
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
Hi High Level Gain from Speakon and Line Level Gain from RCA.
Hro Roll off (crossover) frequency for High Level Speakon and Line Level RCA.
Lo LFE Gain from RCA line level input.
Lro Roll off (crossover) frequency for Line Level RCA LFE input.
Pha Phase adjustment.
Bri Brightness setting.
Apo Auto Power off time setting.
Etr External trigger input polarity setting.
Aon Auto Power on sensitivity setting.
Dto Display timeout.
Display Menu
Lro This function parameter setting allows adjustment of the roll off (crossover) from the LFE
input received via the RCA line level connector. This parameter enables high frequencies to be
filtered out above the displayed setting with a 24dB slope from sources connected to this input.
Most but not all AV decoders offer an adjustable pre filtered output for the LFE content. Offering
this fully adjustable setting for the LFE crossover gives a more flexible use for this input and
enables the user to make adjustments over a wider frequency band and result in better
integration possibilities. Selecting above 120hz results in the “LFE bypass” circuit option. The
LFE bypass circuit sets the crossover to 200hz and only gain is adjustable. The adjustment
range is from 20hz to 120hz & bypass, incremented in single digit steps. This highly accurate roll
off adjustment enables precise matching of crossovers when using a multiple subwoofer set-up.
Hi This function parameter setting allows adjustment of the gain from the inputs received via the
Speakon and RCA line level left and right connectors. This parameter enables adjustment of gain
and thus sound pressure output produced in relation to the input from sources connected to
these inputs. The adjustment range is from –99 to 0 incremented in single dB digit steps. This
highly accurate gain adjustment enables precise matching of gains when using a multiple
subwoofer set-up.
Hro This function parameter setting allows adjustment of the roll off (crossover) from the inputs
received via the Speakon and RCA line level left and right connectors. This parameter enables
high frequencies to be filtered out above the displayed setting with a 24dB slope from sources
connected to these inputs. The adjustment range is from 20hz to 120hz incremented in single hz
digit steps. This highly accurate roll off adjustment enables precise matching of crossovers when
using a multiple subwoofer set-up.
Lo This function parameter setting allows adjustment of the gain from the LFE input received
via the RCA line level LFE connector. This parameter enables adjustment of gain and thus sound
pressure output produced in relation to the input from the LFE output of your AV amplifier. The
adjustment range is from –99 to 0 incremented in single dB digit steps. This highly accurate gain
adjustment enables precise matching of gains when using a multiple subwoofer set-up.
Menu Item
Adjusted Hi Hro Lo Lro
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Page 6
Etr This function parameter setting allows external trigger input polarity to be altered. The
settings are -_- and _-_. The “Reference 150” can be put to sleep and woken via this
voltage monitoring circuit.
APO This function parameter setting allows adjustment of the auto power off time delay. The
settings are 5mins to 60mins and off, incremented in steps of 5. When auto power off is
activated the DATA control must be pressed to bring back on-line manually. This occurs
automatically when audio frequencies above the threshold are present (see Aon).
Memories
4 user presets can be stored. Holding the button down for a few seconds stores the settings for
that preset (store is displayed momentarily). The individual settings can be recalled by a single
press of the corresponding control button. The last selected setting is kept in non volatile mem-
ory. Even if the power is disconnected all settings remain as those last used.
1 2 3 4
Repeated pressing of the data rotary control scrolls through the menu options as follows:
Hi — Hro — Lo — Lro — Pha — bri — APO — Etr — Aon — dto
Settings can be made at each menu option by turning the rotary control. A further push moves to
the next menu item. At any time settings can be stored in one of 4 user pre-set locations which
are accessed by holding down the corresponding pre-set button (as numbered above).
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
1 2 3 4
Press to select
menu item.
Press and hold to store
settings at one of 4
locations
Turn for setting
Pha With the “Reference 150’s” sophisticated microprocessor controlled and monitored
crossover circuit (D.A.M.P.) comes an adjustable phase control. Setting the phase in musically
accurate infinitely variable increments between 0º and 180º. This control is used to enable
accurate and musical integration when placed in a system. By adjusting this control almost
infinite placement combinations can become possible. Most people will not experience phasing.
The effects of which are only apparent to the ear if your main speakers produce the same
frequency note at the same volume level as the subwoofer. For example, if your main speakers
produce a note of 40hz at an equivalent volume level to the subwoofer, also producing 40hz, and
the phase of each is out by 180° then they cancel each other out resulting in a reduction of bass
at this frequency. To remedy this you adjust the phase control on the subwoofer to bring them
both into phase. As a rule of thumb downward, firing subwoofers have a natural 90° out of phase
angle when compared to forward firing main speakers and forward firing subwoofers do not,
when the phase control is set to 0º.
Bri This function parameter setting allows adjustment of the display brightness. The settings
are 1 to 5 with 5 being the brightest. The panel will dim after 20 seconds to its lowest setting until
a command is received.
Aon sensitivity of the auto on circuit can be increased or decreased between 000 and 009.
Dto Display timeout. When selected the display will shut off after 15secs. Use of the remote or
any data rotary movement will bring the display back on.
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 11
Using a die-pressed steel chassis of monstrous proportions creates the rigidity
that is so important in sub-bass speaker requirements. Any distortion of the
chassis under extreme load will detract from the goal of pure sound wave formation. As we all
know the creation of sound waves comes directly from the movement of the cone surface
through the air. The longer the movement of the cone, termed as its excursion, the more air it
moves and up goes the sound pressure level. We like to think of our 10” driver as the best of all
worlds. It has agility, rigidity and decelerative damping to enable the cone to move with lightning
speed back and forth through the air. Incorporating an optimised linear motor with progressive
suspension to avoid bottoming and allow maximum linear excursion. The result is extremely low
total harmonic distortion (THD). The voice coil is bonded to the cone to form a one piece
structure. The result is a piston like action adding to the accuracy of the wave formation. Better
heat dissipation and further reduced THD is achieved as a result of the rigid one piece cone
structure together with vented coil exposure. The massive rubber cone surround together with
the semi-rigid lower damping apron serve to bring the cone to an almost instantaneous return to
its resting place between transients. Truly, the muscle of the system and the working end of this
bass producer.
Speaker
D.I.P. (Dynamic Intelligent Protection)
This circuit monitors the output and the input of the amplifier and ensures that no clipping occurs.
Additionally the microprocessor monitors all thermal activity and ensures that the amplifier output
stages remain within safe working area specifications. This is a complex and highly integrated
circuit which continually monitors specific areas and makes the appropriate action should the
need arise.
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
D.A.M.P. (Digitally Accurate MicroProcessor)
Digitally Accurate Microprocessor controlled crossover circuit (D.A.M.P.). The
“Reference 150” has the ultimate in sophisticated crossover circuits. Twin Digitally Accurate
Microprocessor controlled crossover circuits (D.A.M.P.), incorporate a digital display so that the
upper response limit can be set in musically accurate variable increments between 20hz and
120hz. An LFE bypass facility is activated at above 120hz of the LFE controls (Lro) selectable
parameter with a fixed 200hz roll off. All functions are controlled and monitored via microproces-
sor. This development has enabled the complete and highly accurate settings to become part of
user pre-set memories which will enable the user to store desired settings for different music
sources and or music genre’s. The control of all these functions can be made even more flexible
by the use of a remote control device. A remotely located receiver eye is connected to the rear
panel remote jack and any programmable remote can communicate and adjust the required set-
tings. Once setup is complete the cabinet can be turned around to hide the display and connec-
tions, leaving the remote eye to enable the recalling of user stored pre-sets.
Crossover
Standby (auto power off)
This circuit monitors the inputs and wakens the circuits from standby when a signal is present.
Depending on the stored setting for the APO menu item the circuits will fall into standby mode
when lower signal levels are present for the set time. Settings are: Off - 5 - 10 - 15 - and so on
upto 60 mins. Standby and wake-up can also be activated by external trigger from other equip-
ment. Additionally using the remote will activate standby.
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Page 10
Panel Layout
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
Features
Resulting from an extensive development program, the 150Wrms MOSFET
amplifier provides the engine to power the perfectly matched 10” ultra long throw
woofer. The power supply has been designed to awesome requirements. We fit a Double
Insulated Toroidal transformer which has been designed specifically for this audio application.
To aid this the capacitors used are the large bucket type with a ripple current of 6 Amps each and
selected because of their high temperature and minimal loss characteristics. The transistors used
are the Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect type and specifically designed for audio
applications.
Amplifier
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Page 7
Connectivity
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
You can connect an unbalanced RCA input direct
from a mixing desk or line level pre-amplifier with
or without a sub output. Either mono or stereo
input detail may be used. When connecting from
an A/V amplifier using the subwoofer or LFE out,
the RCA lead used should be connected to the
LFE IN on the Reference 150. The LFE OUT
connector enables you to daisy-chain additional
subwoofers for larger rooms.
LO INPUT (RCA)
For connection directly in parallel from the speaker outputs of the main audio system in order for
the filter circuit to extract the information required to output the required bass frequencies. The
maximum amplifier that can be connected is 500w measured in PEC standard and only when
connected in parallel with the speakers. Do not connect direct to an amplifier unless in parallel
with a speaker. Damage may well occur if you do, to the input circuit of the filter stage. (NB
SEE WARNING on page 9)
HI INPUT (Speakon)
This jack connection is used to remotely shut down and switch on the control board circuits and
amplifier stages. Please note that this only functions if the power switch is in the on position.
Connect the lead (optional) from the device controlling the system on/off function to this socket.
The unit will wake from a standby state upon a trigger of voltage. The menu item Etr can be
used to set whether the unit should waken or go to standby when monitoring either a positive
trigger signal voltage or a negative trigger signal voltage. Refer to your system controller
instruction manual to determine the setting that should be applied in the menu.
12v TRIG (3.5mm Socket)
REMOTE (3.5mm Socket)
This jack is used to connect the M J Acoustics infra red eye. This unique feature provides for out
of sight remote control of all functions but is primarily beneficial for the selecting of user pre-set
stored data which can be selected for different program sources. The remote eye sensor hous-
ing can be located in line of sight with the subwoofer rear panel out of sight. This feature makes
the Reference 150 easy to position with full functionality and at the same time not compromis-
ing room asthetics. This socket should only be connected to the remote RM1 Eye which pro-
vides unmodulated signal data to the processor.
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Page 8
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
CAUTION!
When using the Speakon type lead, connect the Red wire to the
positive terminal of the Left Main Speaker and the Yellow
wire to the positive terminal of the Right Main Speaker.
The Black wire is connected to either one of the negative
Terminals of the Left or Right Main Speakers.
DO NOT CONNECT BLACK WIRE TO BOTH TERMINALS!
Please Note:
The Speakon type lead (used for High Level
Input) referred to is included and pre-wired ready
for use. The connection of the High Level input is
detailed on page 9.
Please read carefully and make sure all Connections
are correct SEE NOTE BELOW!
Connect the Sub to the amplifier
Either using the Low Level Input (RCA)
or the High Level Input (Neutrik Speakon)
SEE WARNING ON PAGE 9
The digital display on the rear panel shows that the unit is powered and the amplifier is ready for
use. Please note that the display will remain lit for a short while following switch-off whilst the
power is dissipated from the internal power supply. The fuse is located below the main input
connector. The fuse should only be replaced, when required, with one of the same type and
rating as installed.
NOTE
If the Reference 150 is to be in standby mode for extended periods then it is advised that the
system main power switch is turned off. This will ensure the complete isolation of mains power
to the circuits and result in zero power consumption. Please ensure that the system is powered
off via the power switch when making and disconnecting all input cables.
POWER
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)
Page 9
Reference150 MkII User’s Manual
WARNING!!
The High Level Lead must be used with zero voltage referenced amplifiers. The new bread of amplifier
that employ Digital output stages requires an interface which is available as an optional extra. If there is
doubt whether your AV amplifier has digital output stages then please check with the amplifier manufac-
turer’s customer services department. Most companies are very helpful and will be able to confirm this for
you.
HIGH LEVEL LEAD CONNECTION
Description
A Speakon type 4 pole plug, designed to match the socket on Sub Bass Amplifier Panels, with
10m three core cable terminating in bare solder ends.
Connection when using one Active Sub Bass System for both channels
1. Locate the speaker output terminals on the back of your power amplifier. These termi-
nals will either be binding posts, push fit terminals or banana plug sockets.
2. Make connection of each wire in the lead supplied as follows:
a. Red wire – connect to the left positive(+) speaker output terminal.
b. Yellow wire – connect to the right positive (+) speaker output terminal.
c. Black wire – connect to either of the negative (-) speaker output terminals.
NB. Only connect to one negative terminal not both!
The wires should be connected in parallel/joined to the corresponding speaker lead
wire going to the speaker.
3. Run the lead to the desired location of the Subwoofer and plug the Speakon type plug
into the panel and twist to lock in place. Removal of the plug is performed by pulling the catch
back and twisting the plug in the opposite direction and pulling the plug out. Be sure to make the
connection of the Speakon plug when the Power amplifier and Sub Bass Amplifier is off.
Connection when using one Active Sub Bass System for each desired channel
1. Locate the speaker input terminals on the back of the speaker. These terminals will
either be binding posts, push fit terminals or banana plug sockets.
2. Make connection of each wire in the lead supplied as follows:
a. Red wire – connect to the positive (+) speaker terminal.
b. Yellow wire – connect to the positive (+) speaker terminal.
c. Black wire – connect to the negative (-) speaker terminal.
The wires should be connected in parallel/joined to the corresponding speaker lead
wire going to the speaker. In the case above both Red & Yellow wires are connected
to the same positive(+) terminal.
14/12/2005 (Ref – 150)