Presence A-820 Rectangular In-Wall Loudspeakers Installation Guide

Presence A-820 Rectangular In-Wall Loudspeakers

Congratulations on your purchase!

You’ve acquired a high-quality stereo loudspeaker that, when paired with compatible electronic equipment, will provide years of exceptional high- fidelity sound. Our mission is to emphasize the importance of music and ensure superior music reproduction throughout your entire home.

• Installation and Operation Manual
  • This manual provides essential information for both installers and owners regarding the installation and operation of the speaker. While we aim to cover the basics, creating a sophisticated high-fidelity system involves numerous details. When wiring and installing speakers, it’s crucial to adhere to local codes and regulations. Consulting a professional will help you maximize your system’s performance.
• Questions and Assistance
  • If you have any unanswered questions after reading this manual, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local dealer for assistance. For the latest information, please visit our website at www.oemsystems.com.

General Description

Our speakers feature specially designed woofers with linear, long-throw butyl rubber surrounds for extended lifespan and exceptional damping. Pivoting Dome Tweeters are used to ensure outstanding high-frequency dispersion throughout your listening environment.

Shipping Damage

• Each speaker undergoes thorough testing before leaving our factory. However, accidents can happen during shipment. Please carefully inspect your speakers upon receipt to ensure there is no damage. If damage is detected, promptly notify your dealer or supplier for assistance. If your speakers were delivered via public transportation, report any damage immediately to the shipping company.

Amplifier Operation

These speakers perform optimally with amplifiers ranging from 5 to 125 Watts RMS. However, it’s essential to be cautious with amplifiers of any power rating to prevent damage. Amplifier clipping occurs when an amplifier is pushed beyond its capabilities due to excessive volume demands, leading to audio signal distortion. If you notice significant distortion at high volume levels, reduce the volume. Please note that damage caused by clipping is not covered under the warranty.

Speaker Placement

Carefully consider the placement of your in-wall speakers. If you have any doubts or concerns about planning or installation, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance for guidance. Selecting the ideal location for your speakers is crucial to achieving the best sound quality and facilitating an easy installation. While we cannot cover all aspects of speaker placement in this publication, here are some valuable recommendations:

• For enhanced bass performance, position the speakers between 18 and 36 inches from an adjacent wall, measured to the center of the speaker. Avoid placing speakers less than 18 inches from an adjacent wall. When situating speakers near a corner, refrain from positioning them equidistant from both adjacent surfaces.
• In a home theater setup, when utilizing front left and right speakers, they should be separated by a distance ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 times the seating distance (assuming they are on the same plane as the center speaker). For instance, if the seating position is 10 feet from the viewing screen and/or center speaker, ideally, the distance between the left and right speakers should fall between 8 and 12 feet (10 x 1.2ft = 12ft). You can adjust tweeter directionality by gently pressing the lens area beside the tweeter dome, directing it towards the listening area.

Wiring

To achieve peak performance, we recommend using speaker cable that is at least 16 gauge or larger for cable runs exceeding 50 feet (15m), and it should be double insulated. Depending on local codes, you may require a CL-2 or CL-3-rated cable. Avoid using a “zip cord,” which has single insulation and is often transparent, as it is less durable. Leave approximately 2½ feet (0.8m) of free cable at the speaker cut-out, and ensure there is enough length at the other end to reach the electronics. Adding extra cable later can be a time- consuming task.

To minimize the risk of interference, avoid bundling speaker cables parallel to electrical cables for extended lengths. While the impedance is low, and the likelihood of interference is minimal, this practice can help reduce hum and RF interference. When securing the cable, be careful not to staple or nail through the electrical conductors, as this could cause a short circuit that might damage your electronics.

When connecting your speakers, always maintain proper polarity (phasing). This means ensuring that the same wire connected to the positive terminal of the amplifier is also connected to the positive terminal of the speaker. Consistency in phasing is essential for optimal sound quality. the terminal of the amplifier has its other end connected to the positive terminal of the speaker. It is important to check this on all speakers. If the connections on one of the speakers are reversed, (out of phase) the sound quality will be impaired.

Dimensions and Cut-out Dimension

overall dimensions and cut-out dimensions for the speaker models A-650, A-820, and A-830:

A-650:

• Overall Dimensions (Width x Height): 9-1/16″ x 12-3/4″
• Cut-Out Dimensions (Width x Height x Depth): 8″ x 11-3/4″ x 3-1/4″

A-820:

• Overall Dimensions (Width x Height): 10-5/8″ x 14-5/8″
• Cut-Out Dimensions (Width x Height x Depth): 9″ x 13″ x 3-1/4″

A-830:

• Overall Dimensions (Width x Height): 10-5/8″ x 14-5/8″
• Cut-Out Dimensions (Width x Height x Depth): 9″ x 13″ x 3-1/4″

INSTALLATION

If the drywall has not yet been installed a Rough-in-Bracket (RI-6914 for A-525, RIB-62 for A-650, & RIB-82 for A-820 / A-830) may be used to reserve the speaker location on the wall. The Rough-in-Brackets are available from the distributor or dealer where the speakers were purchased. When these brackets are used the holes are cut when the drywall is installed. The cable can be tied off on the bracket after securing the cable to a nearby joist.

If the drywall is installed and the speaker locations have not yet been established, then do so now. Assess the wall for possible concealed obstructions such as wiring, plumbing, etc. Inspect the backside of the wall, the attic, and/or the crawl space if available for clues to possible obstructions. Use inspection holes with inspection tools (camera, mirror, flashlight, etc.) if absolutely necessary. Use a “stud finder” to locate the positions of the studs.

Once the speaker locations are established use the cardboard template (the outside of the inner cardboard rectangle) to mark the speaker cut-out. The dimensions for the cut-out are listed in the chart on the previous page. Using the proper tool, cut the appropriate sized hole in the wall. On drywall, clean cuts can be made with a drywall saw.

• If the cable has not yet been run, do so now that you have access to the wall’s interior.
• To aid in speaker performance, a fibrous material, such as fiberglass, may be placed behind the speaker. This may also help to reduce unwanted sound from being transmitted into adjoining rooms. If the wall space has blown or loose insulation, care must be taken to prevent the loose insulation from entering the back of the speaker. This can be accomplished by placing a batt of fiberglass insulation over the back of the speaker.
• As the diagrams show, the speakers utilize a metal Retro Ring which, after tightening with the 4 screws provided, acts as a clamp to hold the frame in place. Note: Use only the 4 outer holes for mounting the frame.
• Install the frame and retro ring assembly by passing the metal retro ring through the cut-out as illustrated in Figures 1 & 2. For the 8″ speakers, observe that there is a top and bottom to the frame. The top and bottom are identifiable by the spacing between the six vacant screw holes in the black retro ring.
• The more closely spaced holes are toward the top. The frame should fit cleanly, without interference, in the cut-out hole. If the hole is a little small then trim the hole as needed. Lightly tighten the screws to secure the retro ring against the back of the wall (see fig. 3). Use care not to over-tighten the screws or the frame may become distorted.
• Pull the end of the cable out of the wall, strip back a section of the jacket as needed, and then expose ½” (13mm) of each conductor. Connect the wire to the terminals on the back of the speaker assembly, observing polarity (+ & -).
• Insert the speaker into the frame and install the six screws (see Fig. 4).
• The frames and grilles can be painted using multiple light coats of spray paint. Custom color spray paints are available from specialty companies. Contact your dealer for more information. The grilles should be removed from the speaker and painted in a clean environment to prevent contamination. It is best to go around the grilles and apply the paint from multiple angles. DO NOT remove the scrim cloth from the backside of the grille. It is not replaceable.
• Install the grilles after testing the operation of the speakers. The grilles are installed by gently working the edge of the grille into the frame of the speaker, beginning at one corner and working one or both directions around to an adjacent or opposite corner.

Contact Information

• Phone: 775-355-0405
• Toll-Free: 800-291-0561
• Fax: Provided but not specified
• Website: www.oemsystems.com
• Email: info@oemsystems.com

FAQs

What should I do if my speakers arrive damaged during shipment?

Each speaker undergoes thorough testing before leaving the factory. However, accidents can happen during shipment. Please carefully inspect your speakers upon receipt to ensure there is no damage. If damage is detected, promptly notify your dealer or supplier for assistance. If your speakers were delivered via public transportation, report any damage immediately to the shipping company.

What amplifiers are suitable for use with these speakers?

These speakers perform optimally with amplifiers ranging from 5 to 125 Watts RMS. However, it's essential to be cautious with amplifiers of any power rating to prevent damage. Amplifier clipping occurs when an amplifier is pushed beyond its capabilities due to excessive volume demands, leading to audio signal distortion. If you notice significant distortion at high volume levels, reduce the volume. Please note that damage caused by clipping is not covered under the warranty.

How should I position these in-wall speakers for the best sound quality?

Speaker placement is crucial for optimal sound quality. For enhanced bass performance, position the speakers between 18 and 36 inches from an adjacent wall, measured to the center of the speaker. Avoid placing speakers less than 18 inches from an adjacent wall. When situating speakers near a corner, refrain from positioning them equidistant from both adjacent surfaces. In a home theater setup, when utilizing front left and right speakers, they should be separated by a distance ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 times the seating distance. You can adjust tweeter directionality by gently pressing the lens area beside the tweeter dome, directing it towards the listening area.

What type of speaker cable should I use for these speakers?

To achieve peak performance, we recommend using speaker cable that is at least 16 gauge or larger for cable runs exceeding 50 feet (15m), and it should be double insulated. Depending on local codes, you may require a CL-2 or CL-3-rated cable. Avoid using a zip cord, which has single insulation and is often transparent, as it is less durable. Leave approximately 2½ feet (0.8m) of free cable at the speaker cut-out, and ensure there is enough length at the other end to reach the electronics. Adding extra cable later can be a time- consuming task.

How should I install these in-wall speakers?

The installation process involves using a Rough-in-Bracket (specific models mentioned in the manual) if the drywall has not been installed. The cable can be tied off on the bracket after securing it to a nearby joist. If the drywall is already installed, establish the speaker locations and use the provided cardboard template to mark the speaker cut-out. Cut the appropriate-sized hole in the wall, and if needed, run the cable. A fibrous material, such as fiberglass, may be placed behind the speaker to aid in performance. Install the frame and retro ring assembly, ensuring proper polarity when connecting the wire to the terminals. Finally, insert the speaker into the frame and install the grilles.

Can I paint the frames and grilles of these in-wall speakers to match my decor?

Yes, the frames and grilles can be painted to match your decor. You can use multiple light coats of spray paint for this purpose. Custom color spray paints are also available from specialty companies. However, please make sure to remove the grilles from the speaker before painting. Paint the grilles in a clean environment to prevent contamination. It's best to apply paint from multiple angles. Do not remove the scrim cloth from the backside of the grille, as it is not replaceable.

Are there any specific guidelines for connecting the speaker wires to these speakers?

When connecting your speakers, it's crucial to maintain proper polarity (phasing). This means ensuring that the same wire connected to the positive terminal of the amplifier is also connected to the positive terminal of the speaker. Consistency in phasing is essential for optimal sound quality. It's important to check this on all speakers. If the connections on one of the speakers are reversed (out of phase), the sound quality will be impaired.

Can these speakers be used in humid environments, such as bathrooms or outdoor spaces?

These in-wall speakers are not designed for use in humid environments or outdoor spaces. They are intended for indoor use in dry, controlled environments. Exposing them to high humidity or moisture can damage the speakers and affect their performance. Please consider appropriate speakers designed for outdoor or humid environments if needed.

Is there a warranty for these speakers, and what does it cover?

Yes, there is a warranty for these speakers. The warranty covers defects in material or workmanship for a specified period from the date of purchase. Any part of the product covered by this warranty that becomes defective under normal installation and use will be repaired or replaced by the manufacturer, provided the product is shipped insured and prepaid to the manufacturer's service department. However, the warranty does not cover products that have been subjected to abuse, misuse, improper storage, neglect, accident, improper installation, or modifications. Damage caused by amplifier clipping is also not covered under the warranty.

Can I purchase replacement parts or accessories for these speakers?

Yes, replacement parts and accessories are available for these speakers. You can inquire about and purchase these items through your local dealer or the manufacturer's official website. If you need specific replacement parts or accessories, it's recommended to contact the manufacturer directly for assistance in obtaining the correct components.

Can I install these speakers in the ceiling instead of the wall?

These speakers are specifically designed for in-wall installation. While it's possible to install them in the ceiling with additional modifications, it's not recommended, as it may affect the speaker's performance and aesthetics. For ceiling speaker options, consider models designed explicitly for ceiling installation.

Can I use these speakers as part of a surround sound or home theater system?

Yes, these speakers can be used as part of a surround sound or home theater system. When positioning them in a home theater setup, ensure that you follow the recommended guidelines for speaker placement mentioned in the manual to achieve optimal sound quality.

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