REVELL Performa B15a User manual

Revel Performa B15a Subwoofer
Owner’s Manual
3 Oak Park, Bedford, MA, 01730-1413 USA | Telephone: [phone] | Fax: [phone] | www.revelspeakers.com
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Please contact Customer Support for information about product shipments.
Part No. 352990-001 | Rev A | 01/04
®™
“Revel,” “Performa,” and the Revel logo are registered trademarks of Harman International Industries. U.S. patent numbers and other
worldwide patents issued and pending.
©2004 Harman Specialty Group. All rights reserved.
This document should not be construed as a commitment on the part of Harman Specialty Group.The information it contains is subject
to change without notice. Harman Specialty Group assumes no responsibility for errors that may appear within this document.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
2
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE REAR PANEL.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equi-
lateral 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 elec-
tric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important operat-
ing and maintenance instructions in the literature accompany-
ing the product.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Please read all instructions carefully and completely before
operating your Revel Performa B15a subwoofer.
1. Always disconnect ac power before connecting or disconnect-
ing any cables, or when cleaning any component.
2. This product uses a three-conductor power cord, which
includes an earth-ground connection. To prevent shock hazard,
always connect it directly to a grounded outlet.
3. Never use any ac extension cord with this product.
4. Never use flammable or combustible chemicals for cleaning
audio components.
5. Never remove the rear panel. No user-serviceable parts inside.
6. Never pour or spill liquids directly onto this unit.
7. Never block air flow through ventilation slots or heatsinks.
8. Never bypass any fuse.
9. Never replace any fuse with a value or type other than specified.
10. Never attempt to repair this product yourself. If a problem
occurs, contact your Revel retailer.
11. Never expose this unit to extremely high or low temperatures.
12. Never operate this product in an explosive atmosphere.
13. Always keep electrical equipment out of the reach of children.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
3

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .........................................................5
ABOUT THE MANUAL AND WARRANTY...................................................5
DESCRIPTION............................................................6
SUBWOOFER ......................................................................................6
ELECTRONICS .....................................................................................7
CABINET.............................................................................................7
UNPACKING..............................................................8
ADJUSTABLE SPIKE FOOTING ...............................................................9
PLACEMENT............................................................11
REAR PANEL LAYOUT ...............................................13
CONNECTIONS ........................................................14
STEREO POWER AMPLIFIER ...............................................................15
MULTI-CHANNEL CONTROLLER
USING THE CONTROLLER’S CROSSOVER .............................................16
MULTI-CHANNEL CONTROLLER
USING THE REVEL PERFORMA B-15a’s CROSSOVER ............................17
MULTI-CHANNEL CONTROLLER WITHOUT HIGH-PASS CROSSOVER........18
MULTIPLE OPERATION .......................................................................19
STEREO BASS ...................................................................................20
SYSTEM OPTIMIZATION ............................................21
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................24
SPECIFICATIONS......................................................25
SUBWOOFER ....................................................................................25
AMPLIFIER ........................................................................................26
OBTAINING SERVICE ................................................26
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
4

INTRODUCTION
The Revel Performa B15a powered subwoofer system combines an
outstanding 15-inch subwoofer with a 1,000-watt (rms) amplifier,
capable of 1,400-watt peaks, for tremendous bass output. Moreover,
the B15a subwoofer’s stylistic form and compact size provide a
surprisingly prodigious output and unprecedented tonal accuracy,
even in the deepest octaves. Impressive features include a built-in
3-band parametric equalizer and adjustable crossover so you can
customize and adapt this system in a wide variety of applications.
This tremendous flexibility results in superb integration with any
Revel loudspeakers, or other manufacturers’ speakers.
ABOUT THE MANUAL AND WARRANTY
To begin enjoying the Revel Performa B15a subwoofer, first read
and then perform the instructions in this owner’s manual.
Maximum performance is dependent on following all instructions
described here, as well as those found in the owner’s manuals of asso-
ciated components in your audio system. Save these instructions for
future reference.
The Revel Performa B15a subwoofer is covered by a limited war-
ranty, so save the bill of sale to protect your purchase and aid in
any service-related questions.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
5
Figure 1.The Revel
Performa B15a subwoofer.

Figure 2. Transducer and
connection locations for the
Revel Performa B15a
subwoofer.
DESCRIPTION
The Revel Performa B15a powered subwoofer system features a
unique transducer that combines brute-force capabilities unprece-
dented in home loudspeakers with a new level of low frequency
nuance and refinement. Combined with the huge internal power
capability, the result is a new standard of superb bass performance
and adaptability for home entertainment systems.
SUBWOOFER
To ensure uncompressed dynamic range, each B15a features a
subwoofer with the following attributes:
•A3-inch (76 mm) diameter, four-layer voice coil with 23 gauge
copper wire is wound on a dual-laminated Kapton former for
extraordinary power handling and freedom from compression.
•Extremely long-throw voice coil is capable of 2.5 inches (64 mm)
of peak-to-peak linear excursion, and 3 inches (76 mm) of maxi-
mum excursion for uncompressed reproduction of deep sustained
bass notes.
•Amassive, 130-ounce (3.7 kg) magnet system produces
1.4 tesla of flux in the gap.
•Ultra-rigid Kevlar®pulp and alloy composite cone with an
inverted metal dome operate as a perfect piston under all
reproduction conditions.
•Modulation rings and a machined “T” pole-piece for extremely
low distortion.
•The heavy wall, cast aluminum frame maintains alignment
between the magnet structure and the moving elements, while
offering excellent rigidity to eliminate basket resonances.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
6
REVEL PERFORMA
B15a Front (without grille)
REVEL PERFORMA
B15a Rear

ELECTRONICS
Each Revel Performa B15a contains an electronics section with the
following attributes:
•An extremely low-distortion, 1,000-watt (rms) amplifier with
1,400-watt burst capability produces peak bass output up to
126dB at 30Hz in an average-sized listening room.
•Inaudible protection circuit to guard against thermal overload.
•Three independent parametric equalizers with variable frequency,
bandwidth, and level controls allow you to precisely tailor the
room response and tame unwieldy acoustic anomalies.
•2-way crossover with variable frequency and phase controls and
selectable slopes allow ideal response matching with other audio
system components.
NOTE: For details on controls and connections, see “Rear Panel Layout”
on page 13.
CABINET
The Revel Performa B15a cabinet is constructed of 1-inch (25
mm) thick MDF wall, optimally designed and internally braced
with the aid of laser interferometry, for reduced cabinet-induced
colorations. Adjustable spike footing is attached to the bottom of
the cabinet for optimal stability, accommodating installations on
tile, hardwood, and carpeted floors. Refer to the Adjustable Spike
Footing section on page 9.
The cabinet’s wood veneer finish does not require routine mainte-
nance. However, cabinet surfaces that have been marked with
fingerprints, dust, or other dirt can be cleaned using a soft cloth
and a high-quality furniture polish. If a higher-gloss finish is
desired, a high-quality wax can also be used.
To clean the cabinet:
1. Apply a high-quality furniture polish to a soft cloth.
2. Use the cloth to lightly wipe the cabinet surface.
To clean the grille:
1. Vacuum using a soft bristled brush vacuum attachment.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
7

Figure 3.The Revel
Performa B15a subwoofer pack-
ing carton.
UNPACKING
The B15a requires special care and handling during unpacking.
Pay particular attention to the precautions that appear in this
section and to other precautions that appear throughout this
owner’s manual.
Do not attempt to lift or move the B15a alone. Proper lifting
requires at least two strong people. When lifting the B15a, stand
as straight as possible using the leg muscles to lift. Do not
attempt to lift the B15a while bending at the waist. When
moving the B15a, carefully rock it side-to-side into the desired
position. Failure to follow these procedures may result in person-
al injuries and/or loudspeaker damage.
When unpacking, save all packing materials identified in Figure 4
at the bottom of the next page for possible future shipping needs.
Refer to the Obtaining Service section on page 26 for additional
information.
1. Set the packaged Revel Performa B15a subwoofer on a soft
towel or carpeted surface in the upright position. Open the top
flaps as shown in Step 1 of Figure 3 (below). Set aside the
power cord and other items located on the top pad.
2. With the top flaps folded back, roll the carton over onto its
exposed top pad as shown in Step 2 of Figure 3 (below).
3. Lift the packing carton off the subwoofer as shown in Step 3
of Figure 3 (below). Use caution to avoid damaging the
contents.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
8
WARNING
TOP
BOTTOM
BOTTOM
TOP
2
3
1

Figure 4.The Revel
Performa B15a subwoofer with
its inner packing materials.
4. Place the B15a in the upright position without allowing the
protective bag identified in Figure 4 (above). to become
“stuck” under the spike footing.
5. When the B15a is in the upright position, remove the protec-
tive bag.
Keep all packing materials for future shipping. In the unlikely
event a product will need repair, it is strongly recommended to
package the unit in its original shipping carton. Using any other
packing materials may result in damage to the product and is not
covered by the warranty. See Obtaining Service on page 26 for
additional details.
ADJUSTABLE SPIKE FOOTING
When shipped, adjustable spike footing is attached to the bottom
of the cabinet for optimal stability, accommodating installations on
tile, hardwood, and carpeted floors. The B15a is shipped with
spike footing attached as shown on the left side of Figure 5 at the
top of the next page, with the round end protruding from the
cabinet. The protective cap is placed over the round end to protect
tile and hardwood floors.
NOTE: When moving the B15a, do not drag it across the floor.
If the B15a is placed on a carpeted floor, the spike footing should
be adjusted as shown on the right side of Figure 5 (next page),
with the spike end protruding from the cabinet. If needed, follow
the instructions that begin on the next page to adjust the spike
footing.
Continued on the next page...
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
9
Protective Bag
Top Pad
Bottom Pad
Power Cord
Warranty Card
Owner's Manual
LFO Test Disc

Figure 5. The Revel Performa
B15a subwoofer adjustable spike
footing.
To adjust the spike footing:
1. Place the B15a on its side on a soft towel or carpeted floor.
2. Remove the protective cap from the round end of the spike.
Save it for possible future use.
3. Rotate the locking ring counterclockwise to detach it from the
spike. Save it for use in step 6.
4. Rotate the spike counterclockwise to remove it from the
cabinet.
5. Rotate the spike clockwise into the cabinet, round end first,
as shown on the right side of Figure 5 (above).
6. Reattach the locking ring, rotating it clockwise to firmly
secure the spike to the cabinet.
7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 for the remaining three spikes.
8. When all four spikes have been reversed, stand the B15a in the
upright position. If needed, repeat steps 1 and 6 to achieve a
level balance.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
10
Locking Ring
Round End
(Protective Cap
Attached)
Locking Ring
Round End
Spike End
Protective Cap
Spike End
Spike End Round End
(Protective Cap Removed)
When shipped, the spikes
are attached as shown here
for loudspeaker placement on
tile or hardwood floors.
The spikes should be
attached as shown here
for loudspeaker placement on
carpeted floors.
B15a

Figure 6. Typical placement of a
Revel Performa B15a
subwoofer in an average-sized
room.
PLACEMENT
Due to the long wavelengths being reproduced, low-frequency bass
response from the Revel Performa B15a subwoofer is non-direction-
al. However, optimum results can be obtained by making in-room
measurements to determine the best locations for all of the speakers
in your specific listening room (see System Optimization on page
21). Consult an authorized Revel dealer for assistance with place-
ment and try the following ideas to enhance performance:
•Start with a corner placement for the B15a subwoofer. This
will provide the best results in most rooms, especially in
conjunction with the B15a’s unique 3-band parametric equaliz-
er. If you cannot measure the response (in order to find the
best location), place the subwoofer in a front corner, as shown
in Figure 6.
•For very large rooms (e.g., greater than around 4,000 to
5,000 cubic feet or 113 to 142 cubic meters), consider adding
another Revel Performa B15a subwoofer for more bass output
Consult an authorized Revel dealer for specific recommenda-
tions on your audio system.
Continued on the next page...
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
11
Listening Position
(e.g., on couch)
B15a
L Speaker R Speaker

Figure 7. Preferred placement of
two B15a subwoofers in a corner
of a larger room.
Figure 8. Alternate placement of
two B15as in opposite corners. If
the room is symmetrical and the
L/R speakers and listening posi-
tion are also symmetrical within
the room, the B15a subwoofers
can be placed in opposite corners
PLACEMENT (Continued)
However, if the room is not symmetrical, and you cannot
make high-resolution measurements, only place the subwoofers
together in one front corner.
NOTE: Using high-resolution measurements, low frequency
performance is often dramatically improved by placing two (or
more) subwoofers in carefully chosen asymmetrical locations.
•If you plan to use two B15a subwoofers and you cannot make
high-resolution measurements (see System Optimization on
page 21) place both subwoofers together in a front corner,
side-by-side or stacked, or place a subwoofer in each of the
front corners. (See Figure 7 and Figure 8 below).
•For best results, place the B15a subwoofer near solid walls to
reinforce bass response, and avoid windows which can rattle
and transmit sound to the outside.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
12
Listening Position
(e.g., on couch)
B15a(s)
L Speaker
Preferred Placement
R Speaker
Alternate Placement
Listening Position
(e.g., on couch)
B15a
L Speaker R Speaker
B15a

Figure 9. The B15a’s rear panel
layout shows locations of
controls, as well as audio
and power connectors.
REAR PANEL LAYOUT
1EQ1~EQ3 Controls: Three parametric equalizers includes vari-
able controls for FREQ., BANDWIDTH, and LEVEL. Use
these controls to modify the frequency response at three points,
adjustable from 18 to 80Hz, across a bandwidth from 0.1 to
1.0 octaves, with level boost up to 6dB or cut down to -14.5dB.
2Low-Pass/High-Pass Filters: The low-pass filter has an ON/OFF
and 24/48dB slope switches, and variable controls for frequency,
phase, and level. The high-pass filter is always on and has a vari-
able frequency control and 12/24dB slope switch. Use the
controls to precisely set a two-way crossover point from 30 to
80Hz, with symmetrical 24dB slopes or asymmetrical 24/12 or
48/12 dB slopes, and low-pass phase shift from 0 to 180 degrees.
3INPUT: Use stereo XLR (balanced) connectors or RCA (unbal-
anced) jacks to connect from preamplifier outputs, or front out-
puts of a multi-channel decoder. Both inputs are 0dBv (nomi-
nal)/+20dBv (maximum). The XLR input is pin 2 high.
4AUX OUTPUT: Use stereo XLR (balanced) connectors or RCA
(unbalanced) jacks to loop input audio signals to additional
REVEL PERFORMA B15as (if present). Both outputs are 0 dBv
(nominal)/+20 dBv (maximum). The XLR input is pin 2 high.
5HIGH PASS OUTPUT: Use stereo XLR (balanced)
connectors or RCA (unbalanced) jacks for (high-pass) connection
to the main amplifier’s inputs. Both outputs are 0dBv
(nominal)/+20dBv (maximum). The XLR input is pin 2 high.
Continued on the next page...
13
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual

REAR PANEL LAYOUT
(Continued)
6Fused power connector for (enclosed) detachable IEC power
cord. If needed, replace the fuse with same type, as follows:
• For 120V units, use a 10A fast-blow fuse.
• For 220V units, use a 5A fast-blow fuse.
7POWER Switch: Press OFF to completely turn off power to
the B15a subwoofer. Press AUTO ON to set the subwoofer to
enter and exit standby mode automatically. Internal sense
circuits will continually detect the presence of audio signals and
will turn on the subwoofer when needed. After some time,
when audio is no longer present, the same circuits will instruct
the subwoofer to enter the standby mode to conserve energy.
CONNECTIONS
Audio interconnection to your main amplifier or home theater
controller can be any combination of unbalanced or balanced
terminations, with full balanced connections offering the best
noise rejection.
Please read the following six applications (starting on the next page)
before proceeding with the actual connections. For clarity, power
connections are not shown. Also, be sure to observe the following:
•Turn off all audio system power before making any connections.
•Read the owner’s manuals that were included with your audio
components to confirm their connection procedures.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
14

Figure 10. How to connect the
Revel Performa B15a
subwoofer to a stereo
preamplifier and the main
power amplifier.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a SUBWOOFER AND A
STEREO POWER AMPLIFIER
A common application is interconnecting the B15a subwoofer
between a stereo preamplifier and the main power amplifier, as shown
in Figure 10.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
15
B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
Preamplifier
(rear)
Left Output Right Output
Main Amplifier
(rear)
To Main Speakers
Left Input
Left Right
Right Input
or or
oror

Figure 11. How to connect the
Revel Performa B15a subwoofer
to a home theater multi-channel
controller using the controller’s
crossover.
CONNECTIONS (Continued)
REVEL PERFORMA B15a SUBWOOFER AND A
MULTI-CHANNEL CONTROLLER USING THE
CONTROLLER’S CROSSOVER
In this application, the B15a subwoofer’s internal low-pass filter is
bypassed and the multi-channel controller’s crossover is used
instead, as shown in Figure 11.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
16
B15a Rear Panel (split view)
*To SUB/LFE Output
(if using optional Y-adapter)
*To SUB/LFE Output
(if using optional Y-adapter)
Use L or R Input and
Increase Low Pass Level;
*Or Use Optional
Y-adapter, If Desired. NOTE: Use AUX OUTPUT to
connect to INPUT on another B15.
Also see Figure 12 on page 19.
Multi-Channel Controller (Decoder)
(rear)
Left Output
FRONT/MAIN
Right Output
Left Output
REAR
Right Output
Left Output
SURROUND/SIDE
Right Output
CENTER Output
SUB/LFE Output
NOTE: Set Controller to
SUB “On” and set the
cross-over in the controller
to 80Hz.
Main Amplifier
(rear)
To Main Speakers
Left Input
Left Right
Right Input
or or
or
or or

Figure 12. How to connect the
Revel Performa B15a
subwoofer to a home theater
multi-channel controller using
the Revel Performa B15a sub-
woofer’s internal crossover.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a SUBWOOFER AND A
MULTI-CHANNEL CONTROLLER USING THE B15a’s
INTERNAL CROSSOVER
In this application, the Revel Performa B15a subwoofer’s internal
crossover is used to interconnect a home theater multi-channel
controller, as shown in Figure 12.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
17
B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
Main Amplifier
(rear)
To Main Speakers
Left Input
Left Right
Right Input
Multi-Channel Controller (Decoder)
(rear)
Left Output
FRONT/MAIN
Right Output
Left Output
REAR
Right Output
Left Output
SURROUND/SIDE
Right Output
CENTER Output
SUB/LFE Output
NOTE: Set Controller outputs to full-
range L/R Front and no SUB.
or or
or
or

Figure 13. How to connect the
Revel Performa B15a
subwoofer without a high-pass
crossover.
CONNECTIONS (Continued)
REVEL PERFORMA B15a SUBWOOFER WITHOUT
HIGH-PASS CROSSOVER
Revel strongly recommends using both a low-pass and high-pass
crossover with any “main” left and right loudspeakers of any size.
The use of a high-pass crossover greatly reduces distortion, increases
dynamic range, and optimizes the transition from the B15a
subwoofer to the main loudspeakers. If needed, your Revel dealer
can help with the proper crossover settings.
If the B15a subwoofer will be used without a high-pass crossover
(see Figure 13), contact your Revel dealer for help in setting the
crossover controls so the main speakers and the B15a subwoofer(s)
will produce an optimum combined response.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
18
NOTE: Use Y-adapters or
Sub Outputs on Preamplifier
(if available) to drive the B15a.
Preamplifier
(rear)
Left Output Right Output
Main Amplifier
(rear)
To Main Speakers
Left Input
Left Right
Right Input
B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
oror
Y-adapter
Y-adapter
Y-adapter
Y-adapter
NOTE: Adjust for optimum
blend with front speakers.
or

Figure 14. How to connect
multiple Revel PerformaB15a
subwoofers.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a SUBWOOFERS IN
MULTIPLE OPERATION
Multiple B15a subwoofers (using their own crossovers) can be
connected in a “daisy-chain” with a multi-channel controller and
power amplifier, as shown in Figure 14. If all subwoofers are placed
next to each other or in symmetrical room locations, set all level and
phase controls for the same respective values.
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
19
#1 B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
#2 B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
Main Amplifier
(rear)
To Main Speakers
Left Input
Left Right
Right Input
Multi-Channel Controller (Decoder)
(rear)
Left Output
FRONT/MAIN
Right Output
Left Output
REAR
Right Output
Left Output
SURROUND/SIDE
Right Output
CENTER Output
SUB/LFE Output
NOTE: Set Controller outputs to full-range L/R Front and no SUB.
or or
or
or
RCA cables
to #2 B15a
INPUT
or
RCA cables
to #3 B15a
INPUT
(Optional)
XLR cables
to #3 B15
INPUT
or
RCA cables
to #1 B15a
AUX OUTPUT
or

Figure 15. How to connect two
Revel Performa B15a
subwoofers for stereo bass.
CONNECTIONS (Continued)
REVEL PERFORMA B15a SUBWOOFER S AND
STEREO BASS
Two B15a subwoofers can be interconnected with a preamplifier and
power amplifier for stereo bass (see Figure 15).
NOTE: Although stereo bass requires symmetrical placement, asym-
metrical placement also has advantages (see “Placement” on page 11).
REVEL PERFORMA B15a
Owner’s Manual
20
Right B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
Left B15a Rear Panel
(split view)
Main Amplifier
(rear)
To Main Speakers
Left Input
Left Right
Right Input
Multi-Channel Controller (Decoder)
(rear)
Left Output
FRONT/MAIN
Right Output
Left Output
REAR
Right Output
Left Output
SURROUND/SIDE
Right Output
CENTER Output
SUB/LFE Output
NOTE: Set Controller outputs to full-range
L/R Front and no SUB.
or or
or
or