MARTIN AUDIO EM Series Compact Loudspeakers User Guide

: June 16, 2024
: MARTIN AUDIO

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION
UNPACKING
OVERVIEW
SAFETY FIRST
AMPLIFICATION
CONNECTIONS
CABLE LENGTHS
SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS
WARRANTY
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Documents / Resources

EM Series
EM26/EM56/EM76/EM186/EM201/EM251
User’s Guide

MARTIN AUDIO EM Series Compact Loudspeakers -

**** This equipment conforms to the requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, amended by 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC and the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC, amended by 93/68/EEC.
Standards Applied

EMC Emission EN55103-1:1996
Immunity EN55103-2:1996
Electrical Safety EN60065:1993

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing a Martin Audio EM Series system. The EM Series is a range of powerful yet compact loudspeakers designed to suit a variety of permanent installation applications. The trapezoid shape of the enclosures allows them to be used singly or arrayed in multiples. Specific uses include distributed foreground sound, theme bars, nightclubs and audio-visual events.

UNPACKING

Each Martin Audio loudspeaker is built to the highest standard and thoroughly inspected before it leaves the factory. After unpacking the system, examine it carefully for any signs of transit damage and inform your dealer if any such damage is found. It is suggested that you retain the original packaging so that the system can be repacked at a future date if necessary.
Please note that Martin Audio and its distributors cannot accept any responsibility for damage to any returned product through the use of non- approved packaging.

OVERVIEW

The EM Series products covered in this guide include the EM26, EM56, EM76 and EM186 full-range systems and the EM201 and EM251 sub-bass systems. Please note that the EM15 and EM150 are covered in a separate User’s Guide. The EM26, EM56 and EM76 are 2-way systems with internal crossover networks. The EM186 is a bi-amped 3-way system and the EM201 and EM251 are dedicated sub-bass systems.
For optimum performance, it is recommended that EM Series loudspeakers are used with EMX System Controllers – the EMX1A for the EM26/56/76 and the EMX2A for the EM186. The controllers can be switched between full-range and sub-bass operation and contain limiter circuitry activated by sense lines for loudspeaker protection. Please refer to the appropriate controller user guide for detailed information on connections and correct limiter settings for a particular EM Series set-up.

3.1 EM26
The EM26 is a miniature high performance loudspeaker suited to a variety of applications from sports bars to high level foreground systems. It is a passive two-way system featuring an 8″ (200mm) bass driver and a 1″ (25mm) ferrofluid cooled HF driver on a 70 x 50 horn.
3.2 EM56
The EM56 is an ultra-compact passive two-way system with a high output capability for its small size. Featuring a 10″ (250mm) bass driver and 1″ (25mm) compression driver on a 70 x 40 degree horn, it is particularly useful in distributed sound and audio-visual appplications.
3.3 EM76
The EM76 is a powerful stand-alone system combining dynamic full-frequency performance with exceptional smoothness. Designed to meet the install requirement for a 12″ (305mm) bass driver plus 1″ (25mm) compression driver combination, the EM76 is a passive 2-way system that is ideal for most applications.
3.4 EM186
The EM186 is an innovative three-way system featuring a powerful 15″ (385mm) low frequency driver. Midrange is produced by a unique 6.5″ (160mm) mid horn developed to overcome the power and distortion limitations of traditionally used large format compression drivers and high frequencies are produced by a 1″ (25mm) compression driver. Mid and HF dispersion patterns are 65 x 40 degrees and the mid/high section is rotatable to enable vertical or horizontal installation. The EM186 is designed for bi-amplification at its 650Hz low/mid crossover point.
3.5 EM201 and EM251
Where an EM Series enclosure requires additional low frequency enhancement, use of either the EM201 or EM251 will extend the power bandwidth of the system to below 35Hz. The EM201 houses a single 18″ (450mm) driver whilst the EM251 utilises twin 15″ (385mm) drivers in an optimally tuned compact reflex enclosure.
NOTE:
Passive systems such as the EM26, EM56 and EM76 may be used without a system controller provided recommended amplifier power is not exceeded and care is taken to avoid amplifier clipping. Use of an optional EMX1A controller with its system specific low frequency EQ and built in limiters will result in improved bass response and system protection.

SAFETY FIRST

It is important that loudspeaker systems are used in a safe manner. Please take some time to review the following points concerning safe use of EM Series loudspeakers.
Professional loudspeakers are capable of producing extremely high sound levels and should be used with care. Hearing loss is cumulative and can result from levels above 90dB if people are exposed for a long period. Never stand close to loudspeakers driven at high level.

4.1 Rigging and Suspension
WARNING: Suspending the system should only be done by qualified personnel following safe rigging practices. Secure fixings to the building structure are vital. Seek help from architects, structural engineers or other specialists if in any doubt.
The EM26, EM56 and EM76 are provided with rear panel fixings for wall brackets. The EM26, EM56, EM76 and EM186 are also fitted with threaded inserts to allow the suspension of a single enclosure.
Never suspend one enclosure from another to form an array or cluster using these fittings.
The common practice of using commercially available eye bolts for suspension should only be undertaken with great caution. Eye bolts are strongest along the thread axis. Angling the enclosures will result in an angle pull and it is important to use eye bolts that are safe in these circumstances. Only forged shoulder eye bolts should be considered and it is important that the thread length is at least 30mm. A flat washer should be inserted between the eyebolt and the enclosure. Formed eye bolts i.e. those which are formed from a steel rod bent into an eye should be avoided.

AMPLIFICATION

EM Series loudspeakers are designed to be used with professional power amplifiers capable of producing the following power outputs into 4 ohms:

EM26 300-400W
EM56 300-400W
EM76 400-550W
EM186 400-550W
EM201 550-700W
EM251 550-700W
Care should be taken to avoid amplifier clipping. It is important to understand that a low power amplifier driven into clipping is more likely to damage a loudspeaker than a higher power amplifier used within its ratings. This is because music signals have a high peak-to-average “crest” factor.
When an amplifier is severely overdriven, its output waveform is clipped (its peaks are squared off) – reducing the crest factor. In extreme cases, the waveform can approach that of a square wave. An amplifier is normally capable of producing far more power under these conditions than its undistorted rated power output.
The use of very high power amplifiers with outputs greater than those recommended is discouraged.
Care should be taken to avoid switch-on surges, which can result in momentary power peaks in excess of specified ratings. When powering up a sound system it is important to switch on the amplifiers after the mixer and control electronics have stabilised. When powering down the system, reverse the sequence and switch off the amplifiers first.

CONNECTIONS

Each connector panel has a Neutrik Speakon NL4 connector wired as follows:

NL4 Pin
1-
1+
2-
2+| EM26/56/76/201/251
Input -ve
Input +ve
Link -ve
Link +ve| EM186
Low -ve
Low +ve
Mid/High -ve
Mid/High +ve
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CABLE LENGTHS

When connecting loudspeaker systems to an amplifier, it is recommended that the return resistance of the cable used is less than one tenth of the nominal impedance of the system or systems in parallel. The table below gives an indication of the maximum permissible cable runs for various conductor cross- sectional areas.

Conductor CSA	Maximum Cable Run
1.0mm²	4 ohms
1.5mm²	11m
2.0mm²	17m
2.5mm²	22m
4.0mm²	29m
6.0mm²	44m
66m	132m

SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS

The EM26, EM56, EM76 and EM186 may be used to cover the full-frequency range – either distributed singly or arrayed in multiples. The EMX1A controller provides appropriate limiting and low frequency equalisation for full- frequency operation of the EM26, EM56 and EM76. The EM186 requires an EMX2A controller.
Where additional low frequency output is required, an EM201 or EM251 sub-bass system driven from a separate amplifier fed from the sub-bass output of the controller can be added. In this case the controller should be switched from full-range to sub-bass operation by means of the recessed switch on the front panel. The sound balance of the complete system can be set up by using a screwdriver to adjust the trim controls accessible through the controller front panel. Please refer to the EMX1A or EMX2A User’s Guide for further information.

WARRANTY

Martin Audio EM Series products are warranted against manufacturing defects in materials or craftsmanship over a period of 5 years from the date of original purchase. During the warranty period Martin Audio will, at it’s discretion, either repair or replace products which prove to be defective provided that the product is returned in its original packaging, shipping prepaid, to an authorised Martin Audio service agent or distributor. Martin Audio Ltd. cannot be held responsible for defects caused by unauthorised modifications, improper use, negligence, exposure to inclement weather conditions, act of God or accident, or any use of this product that is not in accordance with the instructions provided by Martin Audio. Martin Audio is not liable for consequential damages.
This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied. This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

EM26

TYPE
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
RATED POWER
SENSITIVITY
MAXIMUM SPL
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER
DISPERSION
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE 8 BASS
HIGH FREQUENCY
CROSSOVER
ENCLOSURE
CONNECTOR
FITTINGS
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS
(Packed in pairs)
SHIPPING WEIGHT
(Packed in pairs)| Ultra compact, two-way passive
70Hz-18kHz ±3dB
125W AES, 500W peak
94dB
114dB continuous, 120dB peak
200-300W (into 4 ohms)
70 degs horizontal x 50 degs vertical
IMPEDANCE 8 ohms
200mm (8″)
25mm (1″) driver, ferrofluid cooled
3kHz passive
12 litres, vented
1 Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
4 x M6 inserts for Omnimount 75
6 x M8 inserts
(W) 278mm x (H) 391mm x (D) 264mm
(W) 10.9ins x (H) 15.4ins x (D) 10.4ins
10kg (22lbs)
(W) 590mm x (H) 500mm x (D) 300mm
(W) 23.2ins x (H) 19.7ins x (D) 11.8ins
22kg (48.5lbs)
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EM56

TYPE
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
RATED POWER
SENSITIVITY
MAXIMUM SPL
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER
DISPERSION (HxV)
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE
BASS
HIGH FREQUENCY
CROSSOVER
ENCLOSURE
CONNECTOR
FITTINGS
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS
SHIPPING WEIGHT| Compact, two-way passive trapezoid
75Hz-18kHz ±3dB
150W AES, 600W peak
97dB
117dB continuous, 123dB peak
300-400W (into 4 ohms)
70 degs horizontal x 40 degs vertical
8 ohms
250mm (10″)
25mm (1″) driver, ferrofluid cooled
2kHz passive
22 litres, vented
1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
4 x M8 inserts for Omnimount 100
10 x M8 inserts, 1 x pole mounting socket
(W) 335mm x (H) 487mm x (D) 325mm
(W) 13.2ins x (H) 19.2ins x (D) 12.8ins
14.5kg (32lbs)
(W) 400mm x (H) 540mm x (D) 380mm
(W) 15.7ins x (H) 21.3ins x (D) 15ins
16kg (35.3lbs)
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EM76

TYPE
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
RATED POWER
SENSITIVITY
MAXIMUM SPL
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER
DISPERSION
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE
BASS
HIGH FREQUENCY
CROSSOVER
ENCLOSURE
CONNECTOR
FITTINGS
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS
SHIPPING WEIGHT| Compact, two-way passive trapezoid
60Hz-18kHz ±3dB
200W AES, 800W peak
98dB
120dB continuous, 126dB peak
400-550W (into 4 ohms)
70 degs vertical x 40 degs horizontal
8 ohms
300mm (12″)
25mm (1″) exit compression driver
1.5kHz passive
40 litres, vented
1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
4 x M8 inserts for Omnimount 100
10 x M8 inserts, 1 x pole mounting socket
(W) 365mm x (H) 554mm x (D) 364mm
(W) 14.4ins x (H) 21.8ins x (D) 14.3ins
22kg (48lbs)
(W) 440mm x (H) 610mm x (D) 420mm
(W) 17.3ins x (H) 24ins x (D) 16.5ins
23.5kg (51.8lbs)
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EM186

TYPE
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
RATED POWER
SENSITIVITY
MAXIMUM SPL
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER
DISPERSION
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE
BASS/MID
HIGH FREQUENCY
CROSSOVER
ENCLOSURE
CONNECTOR
FITTINGS
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS
SHIPPING WEIGHT| Compact, three-way trapezoid
55Hz-18kHz ±3dB
LF: 350W AES, 1400W peak
MF/HF: 150W AES, 600W peak
LF: 100dB MF/HF: 104dB
124dB continuous, 130dB peak
400-550W (into 4 ohms)
65 degs horizontal x 40 degs vertical
LF: 8 ohms MF/HF: 16 ohms
380mm (15″)/165mm (6.5″)
25mm (1″) exit compression driver
650Hz active 3.3kHz passive
80 litres, vented
1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
12 x M8 inserts
(W) 442mm x (H) 827mm x (D) 430mm
(W) 17.4ins x (H) 32.5ins x (D) 16.9ins
36kg (79lbs)
(W) 500mm x (H) 920mm x (D) 480mm
(W) 19.7ins x (H) 36.2ins x (D) 18.9ins
38.5kg (84.9lbs)
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EM201

TYPE
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
RATED POWER
SENSITIVITY
MAXIMUM SPL
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE
BASS
CROSSOVER
ENCLOSURE
CONNECTOR
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS
SHIPPING WEIGHT| Compact, sub-bass system
40Hz-120Hz ±3db
400W AES, 1600W peak
97dB
122dB continuous, 128dB peak
550-700W (into 4 ohms)
8 ohms
460mm (18″)
120Hz active (via EMX1A/EMX2A)
145 litres, vented
1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
(W) 520mm x (H) 805mm x (D) 494mm
(W) 20.5ins x (H) 31.7ins x (D) 19.4ins
37.5kg (83lbs)
(W) 550mm x (H) 860mm x (D) 520mm
(W) 21.7ins x (H) 33.9ins x (D) 20.9ins
43kg (94.8lbs)
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EM251

TYPE
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
RATED POWER
SENSITIVITY
MAXIMUM SPL
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE
BASS
CROSSOVER
ENCLOSURE
CONNECTOR
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS
SHIPPING WEIGHT| Compact, dual-driver sub-bass system
38Hz-120Hz ±3db
800W AES, 3200W peak
99dB
126dB continuous, 132dB peak
550-800W (into 4 ohms)
4 ohms
2 x 380mm (15″)
120Hz active (via EMX1A/EMX2A)
200 litres, vented
1 x Neutrik Speakon NL4MPR
(W) 572mm x (H) 827mm x (D) 585mm
(W) 22.5ins x (H) 32.5ins x (D) 23ins
58.5kg (129lbs)
(W) 600mm x (H) 870mm x (D) 620mm
(W) 23.6ins x (H) 34.3ins x (D) 24.4ins
65kg (143.3lbs)
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