musikelectronic geithain ME 901K1 User manual

musikelectronic geithain
Instructions for installation and use
ME 901K1

2
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of contents
1 Introduction 3
2 System description 4
3 Basic information 5
3.1 Guidelines 5
3.2 Safety instructions 5
3.3 Unboxing 6
3.4 Delivery contents 6
3.5 Cleaning 6
3.6 Guarantee acknowledgements 6
4 Positioning 7
4.1 Positioning near walls 7
4.2 Stereo operation 8
4.3 Surround operation 9
5 Connecting the speakers 10
5.1 Connection of the speakers with the separate amplifier 10
5.2 Mains connection 10
5.3 Cable connection 10
5.4 Status indication 11
5.5 Adjustment controller 11
6 Specifications 12
7 Acoustic measurements 13
8 Accessories 14
8.1 Pedestal ME 901K1 14
9 Notes 15

INTRODUCTION 3
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
1 Introduction
Dear customer,
Thank you for your trust you have put in us by buying these speakers. You decided upon a quality
product that in regard to tonal and technical characteristics complies to the utmost expectations.
The usual burn-in period is not required, because the speakers are artificially aged in-house.
Please read the technical description and manual to take advantage of the capabilities
of these speakers and ensure safe operation.

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION 4
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
2 System description
Great events often come from little causes. The ME 901K1 has been designed for music enthusiasts,
which focus on the legendary sound of the RL 901K in the smallest possible cabinet. To minimise the
size of the cabinet the amplifier module is housed in a separate cabinet.
Our reliable
K-Technology is also used in the ME 901K1 and by the cardioid radiation characteristics
within the frequency range from 30 through to 250 Hz the reflections on the back walls of listening
rooms can be minimised. In addition the transfer characteristic can be matched to the acoustical
conditions of the reproduction room as well as to the set-up situation by an integrated room match-
ing filter.
The unit for the medium and high-frequency range is combined in a coaxial manner with our long-
throw 16-inch bass system and is provided with a directivity index, which supplements in an excel-
lent way that of the bass system. The total directivity index of the monitor was optimised for middle
and larger listening distances between two and four metres. The whole system is superior by excel-
lent localisation behaviour. Moreover, a series of constructional measures provide that convincing
lowest values of non-linear distortions and colourations could be reached.
The concept of the active 3-way coaxial speaker ME 901K1 offers a high sound compatibility to the
RL series and convinces with phenomenal spatiality.
Additionally to the ME 901K1 an elegant stand is available.

BASIC INFORMATION 5
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
3 Basic information
3.1 Guidelines
This product complies to requirements of current European and national guidelines (Elektromag-
netische Verträglichkeit 89/336/EWG).
Products built by us belong to B2C-class of the WEEE guidelines and must not
be disposed with domestic waste.
3.2 Safety instructions
Like using any other electrical device you should observe the following operation guidelines, safety
instructions and warning signs to ensure optimum functionality and safety of operation!
XRead these instructions carefully.
XKeep these instructions.
XDo not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing cover may expose you
to dangerous voltage or other hazards.
XElectrical devices are not intended for use by kids.
XOperate this device only with the mains voltage stated on the backside.
XDo not install the device near any heat sources.
XDo not expose the device to direct sun radiation.
XDo not install the device in rooms with high humidity.
XEnsure sufficient air ventilation when installing the device in a shelf or wall.
XDo not try to insert anything into device openings.
XThe device shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids shall
be placed on the device.
XThere is risk of electric shock when the device is open.
XRefer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
XClean only with dry or slightly moistened cloth.

BASIC INFORMATION 6
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
3.3 Unboxing
Unpack the speaker carefully and check for visible damages by inappropriate transport. In case of
damages report them to your retailer. Keep the packaging, in case the speaker has to be transported
in the future.
3.4 Delivery contents
XSpeaker
XMains cable
XSpeakon cable (connection between loudspeaker and amplifier case)
XTechnical description and user manual
3.5 Cleaning
The speaker is made of real wood veneer and be nurtured in the same way as furnishings. We advice
quality wax polish to ensure durability of the veneer. Surfaces can also be cleaned with tidy, slightly
damped, fuzz-free, smooth cloth.
3.6 Guarantee acknowledgements
Opening the device by unauthorized personnel leads to all claims under guarantee expire. In case of
destruction by overload, misuse or outside influences there are no claims under guarantee.

POSITIONING 7
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
4 Positioning
Our speakers do not impose special requirements neither in stereo nor in multichannel set-ups.
Nonetheless speaker positioning has influence on listening impression because every room is individ-
ually designed and furnished. The following advices are just guidelines that ease proper positioning.
In addition we offer a measurement service to take advantage of the capabilities of your listening
environment.
4.1 Positioning near walls
When speakers are installed near walls sound quality is physically affected. Every customary speaker
behaves as a punctual sonic source in the low frequency range, with sonic waves spherical radiated
without any constructional measures. Back wall reflections are unavoidable.
The speakers however utilize cardioid radiation characteristics with rearward attenuation greater
than 10 dB. Because of this structural measurement installation near walls is considerably less criti-
cal. For optimum listening experience a minimum distance of 20 cm (7,9‘‘) to walls and furniture
should be ensured. Avoid corner installations because unwanted bass accentuation could arise.
b
b
XMinimum distance to wall b ≥ 20 cm (7.9‘‘)

POSITIONING 8
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
4.2 Stereo operation
The optimum position of the speakers in your listening environment is the so-called stereo triangle
(see figure). The base distance between the speakers and the distance to the hearing zone form an
equilateral triangle (stereo triangle). A distance less than 2 m (6 ft) or more than 4 m (13 ft) should
be avoided. For precise, spacial reproduction turn the speakers inside, directed to the hearing zone.
a
a a
hearing zone
60°
XDistance between speakers and your listening position a = 2 ... 4 m (6 ... 13 ft)

POSITIONING 9
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
4.3 Surround operation
In surround operation the stereo triangle (see Stereo operation) is extended to a circle. The hearing
zone is the center of this circle. Position all speakers in the same distance to the hearing zone. The
center speaker is positioned in the middle between both front speakers. Pay attention to positioning
the front and rear speakers horizontally along one plane. The angle between center and rear speak-
ers should be about 110° - 120°.
60°
110° ... 120°
a
a
a
aa
hearing zone
XDistance between speakers and your listening position a = 2 ... 4 m (6 ... 13 ft)

CONNECTING THE SPEAKERS 10
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
5 Connecting the speakers
In this chapter we inform you how to connect your speakers to mains and your signal source. Ensure
that the mains switch on the backside of the amplifier case is in position “OFF”. Only when your
speaker is completely connected (see chapters 5.1 and 5.2) you can take the device into operation
by use of the mains switch.
5.1 Connection of the speakers with the separate ampli!er
Only use the supplied Speakon cable to connect the speakers with their separate amplifiers!
The speaker and the separate amplifier are paired by the same serial number, printed on the back of
each device. Connect the corresponding units with the Speakon cable. Ensure that the latch snaps in
place in the sockets of the speaker and the amplifier by turning the plug clockwise.
To release the connector cable from the speaker and the amplifier, slide the latch on top of the con-
nector back and turn the connector counter clockwise.
5.2 Mains connection
Check the mains voltage state on the backside of the device. If your local mains voltage does not
match the specification of the speaker, please refer to your retailer or direct distribution. When the
stated and your local mains voltage comply connect the mains connector of the speaker to the
socket with the included mains cable.
5.3 Cable connection
The input of the integrated amplifier is electrically balanced. When your signal source also utilizes
balanced connectors, please use a cable wired as stated in the table:
Balanced connector
(amplifier)
Balanced connector
(signal source)
Unbalanced connector
(Signal source)
XLR XLR RCA
Earth Pin 1 Pin 1 Ring
Signal + Pin 2 Pin 2 Tip
Signal - Pin 3 Pin 3 Ring

CONNECTING THE SPEAKERS 11
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
When using a signal source with unbalanced outputs (RCA) you need to balance the connecting
cables. This avoids hum and other noise interferences. The table and the following figure show the
wiring.
Unbalanced RCA to balanced XLR Connections
Loudspeaker (XLR-3M) Cable Source (RCA)
1 2
3
To carry the signal connect the XLR socket of the speaker to your signal source.
5.4 Status indication
The tow-coloured LED at the front of the speaker is used as status indicator of the device.
XLED green: indicates normal operation of the device
XLED red: indicates the operation of the overload protection circuit;
Output power limitation to protect the components from overloading
5.5 Adjustment controller
The “Level” controller is used for level adjustment over the full frequency range.

SPECIFICATIONS 12
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
6 Speci•cations
General Active 3-way coaxial-loudspeaker for listening distances from 2 to 4 m
Maximum SPL
from 100 Hz ... 10 khz 116 dB ... 122 dB / r = 1 m (3.3 ft)
Bandwidth 25 Hz ... 20 kHz ± 3 dB
Calibration: Acoustic output level
messured at PE= - 14 dBu 89 dB / r = 1 m (3.3 ft)
Directivity index
from 100 Hz ... 10 kHz increasing from 5 dB to 10 dB
Inherent noise sound level ≤ 7 dB (A) / r = 1 m (3.3 ft)
Total harmonic distortion
measured at 96 dB / r = 1 m (3.3 ft)
from 100 Hz ... 10 kHz ≤ - 44 dB
Nominal Input level + 6 dBu adjustable
Input impedance ≥ 10 kOhm RC symmetrically
Electronic Crossover frequency 550 Hz and 2.8 kHz
Nominal Output power of the amplifier
LF
MF
HF
180 W @ 4 Ohms
100 W @ 4 Ohms
100 W @ 4 Ohms
Power requirements 230 V ~ ± 10 %, 50 Hz ... 60 Hz
115 V ~ ± 10 %, 50 Hz ... 60 Hz (optional)
100 V ~ ± 10 %, 50 Hz ... 60 Hz (optional)
Power consumption 35 VA at standby; max. 300 VA at full load
Mains Connection IEC power connector
Operation and Clipping indicator LED on front side
Input Connector XLR 3F
Connection between loudspeaker
and amplifier case
Speakon NL8; shielded cable
Standard length 1.50 m; other lengths optional available
Loudspeaker systems
Woofer
Mid-range Unit
Tweeter
400 mm (16’’) cone
125 mm (5’’) cone
25 mm (1’’) dome
Dimensions (H x W x D)
Loudspeaker
Amplifier
Pedestal
480 x 460 x 400 mm (18.9’’ x 18.1’’ x 15.8’’)
520 x 310 x 200 mm (20.5’’ x 12.2’’ x 7.9’’)
600 x 470 x 410 mm (23.6’’ x 18.5’’ x 16.1’’)
Weight
Loudspeaker
Amplifier
Pedestal
34.9 kg (76.9 lbs)
13.3 kg (29.3 lbs)
17.0 kg (37.5 lbs)
Temperature requirements
for use
for storage
Humidity
+ 15°C ... + 35°C (59°F ... 95°F)
- 25°C ... + 45°C (- 13°F ... 113°F)
45 % ... 75 %
Design of the Cabinet
Loudspeaker
Amplifier
MDF-wood in ash black veneered; optional different veneers or colours
optional with holding device available
base plate in microstructure semi-gloss-black
Pedestal (optional available) fillable columns and top plate in polished stainless steel
base plate in microstructure semi-gloss-black

ACOUSTIC MEASUREMENTS 13
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
7 Acoustic measurements
All acoustic measurements are carried out under anechoic conditions with 1 m (3.3 ft) distance.
20 50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k
85
80
75
70
65
60
[dB]
[Hz]
0° 45° 180°
Free field frequency response
100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k
1
0.5
0
[%]
K2 K3
[Hz]
Total harmonic distortions PA= 96 dB
-15
015
30
45
60
75
90
105
120
135
150
165
180
-165
-150
-135
-120
-105
-90
-75
-60
-45
-30
0 -6 -9 0-3-9 -6-3
32 Hz 80 Hz 125 Hz
dB
Directional characteristic

ACCESSORIES 14
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
8 Accessories
8.1 Pedestal ME 901K1
Dimensions (H x W x D in mm): 600 x 470 x 410
Dimensions (H x W x D in inch): 23.6 x 18.5 x 16.1
total height (top edge loudspeaker): 1080 mm (42.5 inch)
fillable pillars and top plate in polished stainless steel
baseplate in microstructure semi gloss black

NOTES 15
musikelectronic geithain GmbH ME 901K1
9 Notes

musikelectronic geithain gmbh
STUDIO MONITORING - HIGHEND LOUDSPEAKER - SOUND REINFORCEMENT
SYSTEMS SYSTEMS
Nikolaistraße 7
04643 Geithain / Germany
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [email protected]
www.me-geithain.de