XLT / XLTE FULL-RANGE SYSTEMS AND SUBWOOFERS Owner’s Manual
COMMUNITY PROFESSIONAL LOUDSPEAKERS A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION FOR OVER 30 YEARS Before 1967, most sound reinforcement systems were made up of components designed for use in movie theaters. Although these components worked well in theaters, the enclosures were large, bulky, heavy, and lacked output capability in the critical midrange portion of the audio spectrum.
EC STATEMENT OF CONFORMITY This document confirms that the range of products of Community Professional Loudspeakers bearing the CE label meet all the requirements in the EMC directive 89/336/EEC laid down by the Member States Council for adjustment of legal requirements, furthermore the products comply to the rules and regulations referring to the electromagnetic compatibility of devices from 30 August 1995.
TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE Community Professional Loudspeakers..................................................................................................................... 1 EC Statement of Conformity ..................................................................................................................................... 2 1. Introduction and Safety Information ........................................................................................................... 4 1.
COMMUNITY XLT™ AND XLTE™ SERIES OWNER’S MANUAL 1 INTRODUCTION Welcome! You’ve joined the group of people that have chosen high quality Community loudspeaker systems and components for over 30 years. We’re gratified you did and we will do our best to make sure you are satisfied with your new loudspeaker system. In order for you to get the most effective use of this product, please take some time to read this manual.
2 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION The Community XLT and XLTE loudspeakers are inherently rugged and are carefully packed in well-designed cartons. It is a good idea to inspect the unit carefully after it has been removed from the packaging, as sometimes there is hidden damage due to some unfortunate incident in shipment. Please note that once the shipment has left Community, the responsibility for damage is borne by the freight company.
NOTES: As shipped from the factory the PASSIVE/BIAMP switch is set for PASSIVE mode and the HF Level Switch (not shown) is set in the +4 dB (maximum) position. Subwoofer input panel layout is different from that shown.
NOTE: As shipped from the factory the PASSIVE/BIAMP switch is set for PASSIVE mode and the HF Level Switch (not shown in this drawing) is set in the +4 dB (maximum) position.
Figure 1: Physical Features NOTE: These are composite, generalized drawings showing features for both XLT and XLTE products. Refer to TABLE 1 to determine which of these features apply to your particular loudspeaker model.
3 PHYSICAL FEATURES (See FIGURE 1) 3.1 FEATURES MATRIX TABLE 1 lists various features that vary between XLT and XLTE models. Refer to the Features Descriptions chart in SECTION 3.2 for details about each feature.
OTHER MOUNTING POINTS GRILLE MOUNTING POINTS The grille is fastened to the enclosure with 1-1/2 in. / 38 mm #6 Phillips pan-head screws. INPUT PANELS INPUT PANEL POWERSENSE™ DDP 4 INDICATOR HF LEVEL SWITCH PASSIVE / BIAMP SWITCH NEUTRIK SPEAKONS 5 11 DUAL 1/4 in. PHONE JACKS 5 12 NEUTRIK SPEAKONS 5 13 DUAL 1/4 in. PHONE JACKS 5 1/4 in. PHONE JACK – HIGH PASS OUTPUT For connecting the power amplifier to the loudspeaker. Also has user adjustable controls and PowerSense protection indicator.
4 COMMUNITY XLT™ AND XLTE™ SERIES GENERAL DESCRIPTION The XLT loudspeaker systems have features and functions designed primarily for portable applications. The XLTE systems are suitable for both heavier-duty portable use and for permanent installation. From the smallest to the largest model, these loudspeakers represent Community’s commitment to meeting the audio requirements for sound reinforcement with performance, quality, and reliability at affordable prices. 4.
4.3.4 Ferrofluid Cooling All XLT and XLTE low frequency drivers and the 46 mid frequency driver are specifically designed to be Ferrofluidcooled. Ferrofluid is a viscous liquid that is attracted by magnetic fields. The liquid is injected into the voice coil gap during manufacturing and is permanently retained by the magnetism in the gap. Precise Ferrofluid formulations are used to match the particular physics of each driver’s operation. Ferrofluid provides several important benefits.
4.6.3 Subwoofer Full-Range Output The subwoofers have a FULL-RANGE OUTPUT designed to connect to a full-range loudspeaker. This output functions as a high pass filter. The signal from the power amplifier connected to the subwoofer passes through this output that filters out the subwoofer frequencies below 150 Hz, and provides the signal for powering the full-range loudspeaker. This is so a single amplifier channel can be used to power both the subwoofer and full-range loudspeaker. (See SECTION 5.1.
4.8.1 Permanent Mounting Each enclosure has provisions for permanently installing it. XLT: These models have four 5/16-18 threaded T-nuts - one each in the top, sides, and bottom. The XLT48 has two mounting points - one on each of the two sides. These points are designed to be used with Community’s optional CSSUPKIT or WB1 mounting kits for permanent installations. The XLT41E has no provisions for permanent mounting or rigging.
4.8.6 41 Positioning and Horn Rotation The 41 can be positioned in several ways. When used as a floor monitor either of the two backs may be placed on the floor to vary the aiming angle. One provides an up-angle of 30 degrees from the floor and the other an up-angle of 45 degrees from the floor. The 41 may also be used upright as a PA loudspeaker.
5 SETUP AND OPERATION A variety of topics are covered in these sections concerning the use of the loudspeakers. Please read them thoroughly to ensure proper set-up, operation, and the best performance, sound quality, and reliability from your loudspeakers. 5.1 CHOOSING A POWER AMPLIFIER 5.1.1 Power Amplifier Choice (Refer to SECTION 9.2 Using Lower Power Amplifiers) It is important to select the proper power amplifier output for the loudspeaker.
MODEL LOUDSPEAKER PROGRAM RATING REC. POWER AMP RANGE POWER AMP LOAD IMPEDANCE 41, 42, 43, and 48 46 47 500W 500W 1000W 420W to 600W 420W to 600W 830W to 1200W 8 Ohm 4 Ohm 4 Ohm Table 3: Recommended Amplifier Power for Full-Range in PASSIVE Mode MODEL LF PROGRAM RATING REC. LF POWER AMP RANGE POWER AMP LF LOAD IMPEDANCE HF PROGRAM RATING REC.
specific crossover settings for all possible combinations and situations. Therefore, if the crossover allows a range of filter adjustments, you should experiment for the best sound. Here are some general recommendations: The crossover frequency can be set anywhere between 80 Hz and 175Hz, however a setting between 100 Hz to 150 Hz is recommended. Use a 12 dB or 18 dB per octave crossover slope. If you have a choice of filter types, the Butterworth type should work well.
FIGURE 3: BIAMP Mode Configurations PAGE 19 Community XLT / XLTE Series Owner’s Manual
6 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION 6.1 LOUDSPEAKER CABLE 6.1.1 Loudspeaker Wire Gauge To get the maximum performance from your loudspeaker, copper wire and good quality connectors must be used. The most important factor in selecting loudspeaker cable is its resistance, which is a function of the wire gauge and length. You want to keep the total resistance of the cable under 0.2 Ohms. Doing so will maximize electrical damping (which maximizes the transient performance) and minimize power losses.
6.2.1 Choosing an Input Jack The 1/4 in. connector has been adopted for use as a loudspeaker connector primarily because of its low cost and ready availability. It has relatively low current handling and low mechanical contact force. This can result in a connection failure over time even if it is left undisturbed in a fixed installation. The jack and connector are subject to deterioration over time with repeated plugging and unplugging.
in CHAPTER 11, they indicate the load will be below 3 ohms (except for the 51 models). Because this occurs only over a small range of frequencies and because of the nature of audio signals, a 4 Ohm amplifier should be able to drive this load with no problems. However, for models that have a nominal 2 Ohm impedance when paralleled, use caution by ensuring that your amplifier is both rated for 2 Ohms and has adequate cooling.
6.4.2 BIAMP Mode Wiring (See FIGURE 5) Installing and operating loudspeakers in BIAMP mode requires putting the slide switch on the input panel in the BIAMP (up) position. In this mode the LF and HF connections must be made using either of the Neutrik Speakon jacks. Note that each Speakon jack can accept both the LF and HF inputs. The 1/4 in. jacks are not used for BIAMP mode. Observe proper polarity when making the connections. FIGURE 5: Wiring for BIAMP Mode Full-Range 6.4.
7 PHYSICAL INSTALLATION 7.1 FRONT GRILLE The grille is painted using a powder coating process that bonds the paint to the steel. This prevents the paint from easily chipping and the resulting matte finish reduces reflection of ambient light sources. If desired for cosmetic purposes, the grille may be painted another color using a non-bridging enamel paint such as Krylon™. In any case, spray painting is recommended. 7.1.
7.3.1 Model 41 Horn Orientation The 41 is shipped from the factory for monitor use meaning that when in a horizontal position its HF pattern is 90 degrees horizontal by 40 degrees vertical. For operating it in an upright position as a PA loudspeaker, rotate the horn so its coverage pattern will remain at 90 degrees horizontal. 7.3.
quite strong, these points do NOT have a WLL (Working Load Limit) rating. For this reason always take the following precautions: ALWAYS use at least two mounting points on opposite sides of the enclosure. ALWAYS pull in a direction parallel to the surface of the enclosure in which the mounting point is located. ALWAYS use hardware that is attached so that it is flush to the surface of the enclosure. ALWAYS use hardware that is long enough to screw all the way into the mounting point.
7.4.3 Using the Community WB1 Mounting Accessory The WB1 mounting bracket kit consists of two steel brackets that can be attached to the mounting points for permanent attachment of the loudspeaker to architectural structures. Because of the angled sides on the enclosures, the WB1 will not mate flat to a surface behind the loudspeaker without bending the bracket. It is therefore recommended that the WB1 be used ONLY on the top and bottom of the enclosure.
7.5.1 Using the Community EYBLTKIT The Community EYBLTKIT has four drop-forged, load-rated, 3/8-16 eyebolts with locking washers. They are designed for use in the mounting/rigging points on the XLTE loudspeakers. Refer to the instructions that are included with the EYBLTKIT accessory for proper use. FIGURE 10: XLTE Mounting / Rigging Point Detail 7.6 STACKING ENCLOSURES XLT and XLTE enclosures may be temporarily stacked to provide greater height.
8 ACOUSTICAL ADJUSTMENTS Once the loudspeaker has been connected according to your configuration, it is ready for acoustical adjustments. This is normally a one-time procedure. Once set, you should not need to change these adjustments. However, when using a system in different environments or for different types of programs you may want to change some adjustments as needed to maximize sound quality. 8.
WARNING: Before setting gain structure, disconnect the loudspeaker(s) from the amplifier(s). 2. The basic procedure is to use a test signal and set the first piece of equipment in the signal chain (usually the mixer) so it is just below its maximum voltage output from its specifications as read on the voltmeter, or on equipment’s output meter, or just below clipping as observed on the oscilloscope, or just starting to audibly distort.
8.3 EQUALIZATION Once volume level balances are set, you can then equalize the loudspeaker, if desired, using the loudspeaker’s HF Level switch and/or a graphic or parametric equalizer or tone controls on the mixer. Bear in mind that Community loudspeakers are optimized for good performance out-of-the-box in most typical PA applications and environments. 8.3.
9 OPERATING PRECAUTIONS The following sections detail certain operating precautions for the loudspeaker that will aid in achieving and maintaining its maximum performance and reliability. They also include important information for situations and usage outside the basic set-up and operation described in the previous sections. 9.
When operating a full-range loudspeaker or subwoofer with a lower power amplifier and without any sort of electronic limiting protection, ensure that the amplifier’s limits are not exceeded. Most amplifiers have some type of indicator that shows when it is clipping. Keeping the signal volume level below this point will usually prevent loudspeaker damage or failure. High frequency drivers are very intolerant of clipping.
FIGURE 12: Sound Exposure Limits 9.4 TESTING AND TEST SIGNALS (Refer to CHAPTER 12 for troubleshooting methods) To test a full-range loudspeaker or subwoofer or to reproduce test signals or tones through it for other purposes, certain precautions must be followed to avoid damage to the loudspeakers.
10 SERVICING THE LOUDSPEAKER 10.1 ACCESSING THE DRIVERS The drivers (LF, MF, or HF) are accessed by removing the grille (See SECTION 7.1.1). This is done by removing all the screws that hold the grille to the enclosure then carefully pulling the grille out of its recess. The grille is purposely tight fitting so some force may be required. Use a small screwdriver to pry it up near one corner or an Allen wrench or similar tool to hook it through one of the perforations to assist in removing it.
11 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS (Note: Specifications subject to change without notice) 11.1 FULL-RANGE MODELS Model: System Type Frequency Response Sensitivity (1W / 1m SPL) Max.
11.2 MONITOR SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFERS 1 Model: System Type Frequency Response Sensitivity (1W / 1m SPL) Max.
12 IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY Should you have a problem with your Community loudspeaker, find the symptom and follow the associated “What To Do” instructions. Be aware that a particular symptom may have several possible causes. Please refer to appropriate sections in this manual if you need more detailed information. SYMPTOMS FULL-RANGE LOUDSPEAKERS No sound. PROBABLE CAUSE No sound. Amplifier is not on or loudspeaker is disconnected. Signal not reaching amplifier.
No bass. Low frequency driver is not (Note: Model 47 has 2 LF drivers wired functioning. in parallel.) Bass is weak on model 47. One LF driver is not (Note: Model 47 has 2 LF drivers wired functioning. in parallel.) Low or no volume for the midrange. Mid frequency driver or (Model 46 only) crossover is malfunctioning. High frequencies are too weak or too High Frequency Level switch bright. needs adjustment No high frequencies. PASSIVE / BIAMP switch in the wrong position.
No high frequencies. High frequency driver or crossover is malfunctioning. Listen at low level to the high frequency driver. If some sound is heard from this area and it is not distorted, it is probably a crossover problem. If distorted sound or no sound is heard, the driver or crossover may not be working properly. Replace as needed.
13 WARRANTY INFORMATION AND SERVICE Transferable Limited Warranty Community products are guaranteed to be free from defects in manufacturing materials and factory workmanship for a specified period as noted, by product group, below: CSX-S2 Loudspeaker Systems are covered by this warranty for a period of ten years in the USA, five years worldwide. XLT, XLTE, CPL, and CSV Loudspeaker Systems, fiberglass components and all mounting kits are covered by this warranty for a period of five years.
Community reserves the right to change the design of any product from time to time without notice and with no obligation to make corresponding changes in products previously manufactured. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, you may also have other rights that vary from state to state. No action to enforce this warranty shall be started later than ninety days after expiration of the warranty period. THIS STATEMENT OF WARRANTY SUPERSEDES ANY OTHERSFOR COMMUNITY PRODUCTS.
APPENDIX - XLT41E and XLT48E The XLT41E and XLT48E, in addition to being part of the XLTE Series, are available to Community Contractors and Distributors as part of Community’s CPL Loudspeaker Series. Their function as part of this series is to provide portable monitor systems compatible with permanent installations using CPL full-range loudspeakers and subwoofers.
INDEX A G Abbreviated Operating Instructions ......................................... 11 Accessories .............................................................................. 15 Acoustic Level Precautions...................................................... 33 Acoustical Adjustments ........................................................... 29 Amplifier Clipping................................................................... 32 Amplifier Power, Recommended.......................................
Passive Mode Amplifier ........................................................... 17 Passive Mode Configurations................................................... 18 Passive Mode Wiring ............................................................... 22 Pattern Control Horns .............................................................. 12 Permanent Mounting ................................................................ 14 Physical Features.................................................................
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