MONITOR AUDIO Anthra Subwoofer Instruction Manual
- May 15, 2024
- MONITOR AUDIO
Table of Contents
MONITOR AUDIO Anthra Subwoofer
Specifications
- Model: Anthra Subwoofer Series
- Controls: Encoder, Screen, Factory Reset button
- Inputs: RCA Line Level Inputs
- Outputs: RCA Line Level Outputs
- Trigger Input: 12 Volt
Welcome to Anthra
- Thank you for purchasing one of our Anthra Subwoofers, you’re now ready to start your journey to breathtaking sound.
- It takes confidence to dare to be simple. Anthra subwoofers embrace this methodology. Our standalone subwoofer series partners innovative acoustic know-how with an intuitive user-experience. Which isn’t as simple as it sounds.
- In this product manual, you’ll find information about setting up your subwoofer and how to maintain your subwoofer for a lifetime of enjoyment.
- If you need any further assistance, please contact our technical team at monitoraudio.com/support
Spikes & feet
Use on wooden or hard floors
The foot comes fully assembled for use on hard floors. All that is required is
fixing into the bottom of the cabinet. This is achieved by simply screwing the
feet fully into the 4-threaded inserts in the underside of the cabinet.
Use on carpeted floors
For carpeted floors, or where spikes are appropriate, the spike can be screwed
into the foot assembly. If your carpet has a very thick pile, remove the soft
polymer pad from the foot to ensure the spike goes all-the-way through the
carpet into the floor.
warning: Please ensure there are no hidden wires under the carpet that could be damaged by the spikes.
Levelling the speaker
- Place the cabinet in your desired location, and check that it is level on all sides. If it is slightly uneven, unscrew the main threaded assembly at the lowest point and check again.
- Continue this process until the cabinet is fully level. Use the locking nut on the foot to fix the foot in place and to stop any unwanted vibrations.
Controls and connections
-
Encoder
Press the Encoder to wake up the Subwoofer and to select options within the Subwoofers menu system. Turn the encoder to scroll the menu and to change the volume, Low Pass Filter settings and EQ presets in the menu. -
Screen
Displays the Anthra menu for setup using the encoder. Refer to page 10 for more on the menu system layout. -
Factory Reset
With the subwoofer switched On, press and hold for 5 seconds to perform a factory reset of the Anthra subwoofer. To access the button use a thin or pointed object. -
RCA Line Level Inputs
For connection to a 2-channel/ stereo amplifier system, the connection should be provided by a pair of high-quality signal cables from the pre-out section of an amplifier. Connection from an AV receiver or processor should be made using a single subwoofer cable into either of the inputs.
NOTE: Cable lengths should not exceed 10 meters to avoid interference from other electrical appliances. -
RCA Line Level Outputs
To be used to feed additional sub-woofers or power amplifiers from the Anthra subwoofer by ‘daisy chain’ type connection. The outputs are link-out-only connections and do not provide any form of filtering or amplification. There must be a signal in the RCA inputs for the linked outputs to work.
NOTE: Cable lengths should not exceed 10 meters to avoid interference from other electrical appliances. -
12 Volt Trigger Input ~ Centre Pin Tip = +12Vdc
For external power control from an AV amplifier/ receiver to the Anthra Subwoofer. Monitor Audio recommends using this function and a lead is supplied. This 12-volt signal is generated by the AV amp/receiver and tells the Subwoofer to turn On from standby mode. This allows a more accurately controlled auto On/Off function and is far more energy efficient. -
Balanced LFE Input (Female XLR Type)
To be used when connecting to the balanced output on the amplifier. This is the best method of connection when using long runs of cables (over 10m up to 100m). A balanced connection provides a much better, almost noise-free method of connection over RCA connectors. -
Balanced LFE Output (Male XLR Type)
To be used to feed additional sub-woofers or power amplifiers from the Anthra subwoofer by ‘daisy chain’ type connection. This is the best method of connection when using long runs of cables (over 10m, up to 100m).
A balanced connection provides a much better (almost noise-free) method of connection over RCA connectors. The output is a link-out-only connection and does not provide any form of filtering or amplification. There must be a signal in the XLR input for the linked output to work. -
IEC Mains Input Socket
The subwoofer is supplied with a three-pin mains input socket for connection to the mains supply. Use ONLY the appropriate IEC mains lead provided with the product.
Front LED colour matrix
The front LED has multiple colours/ indicators. Please refer to the below
table for their meaning.
Setting up
Initial set-up
Follow the steps to get started setting up your Anthra Subwoofer. More detail
for each step is also given in the corresponding sections.
Leave the subwoofer unplugged from the mains until all signal cables are
connected.
- Position subwoofer, all features and settings can be configured using the MaestroUnite app or from the back of the subwoofer.
- Connect the signal cables based on your system, refer to the AV or Stereo System section below.
- Connect the IEC mains lead provided and switch the subwoofer On by pressing the encoder.
- Download MaestroUnite, refer to page 12.
- Connect to MaestroUnite.
Positioning
The subwoofer should be sited in the most suitable position, preferably not
directly in the corner of a room as this may cause excessive bass boom. Once a
desirable position is achieved it is important to check if the cables are long
enough to reach comfortably without being under tension. If using the RCA
inputs, cables should be less than 10 meters to avoid interference.
Audio Connections
- When using a mono subwoofer output from your amplifier/ receiver, the connection is made by RCA-type connectors to the left or right input or a balanced XLR connection.
- If a stereo RCA connection is preferred, connect to the left and right RCA inputs from the pre-amp outputs on your source amplifier.
- When daisy chaining to an additional product ensure the output from the Anthra Subwoofer is connected to the corresponding input on the Anthra Subwoofer. For example, use the left RCA input and left RCA output. Not the Left RCA input and balanced XLR output.
warning: Do not connect or disconnect the signal leads with the Anthra Subwoofer switched on.
Power
To power on the subwoofer connect the supplied IEC power cable and press the
encoder on the amp panel. The Monitor Audio Logo will briefly appear on the
screen followed by the menu system. The Anthra subwoofer can also be set to
wake from standby using Music Sense or the 12v Trigger from the MaestroUnite
app.
AV System
By default the Anthra LPF is bypassed, we recommend setting the crossover at
the receiver or amplifier. This is usually done as part of the automatic setup
on the AV amplifier/ receiver. It is recommended to double-check the settings
of the automatic setup to ensure the levels and crossover settings are
correct.
Stereo System
It is recommended to use an AV amplifier/ receiver or an amplifier with a
dedicated sub-out to simplify setup and achieve the best performance. However,
if this is not possible, when connecting using this method, you use the LPF
settings in the Anthra Subwoofer to allow only the bass frequencies to be
played. This can be done using the encoder or the MaestroUnite app.
For best practice when integrating the Anthra Subwoofers with Monitor Audio loudspeakers, we would recommend using the port bungs – where supplied with the speakers (replacements or additional bungs can be purchased from Monitor Audio or their partners), and setting the LPF -3dB frequency to that of the tuning frequency of the port where this data is available from our website. If this isn’t quoted, use the table below as a guide and experiment with the frequency to find the perfect setting for you and your listening environment. The slope angle for the LPF should be kept at the default 12dB/ octave.
For use with other manufacturers speakers, please refer to the table below as a guide and experiment with the frequency to find the best setting for your tastes and listening environment, although a good starting point is to set the LPF -6dB frequency on the subwoofer to the -6dB in room frequency if that is quoted on the manufacturer’s website. For use with ported loudspeakers, and no port bungs, use a -24dB/ Octave slope and for sealed cabinets or those with blocked ports, use a -12dB/ octave slope.
| Type of Main Speaker | Crossover Control Setting |
|---|---|
| Large floor-standing speaker | 20-80 Hz |
| Small floor-standing speaker | 30-80Hz |
| Large stand-mount/ bookshelf speaker | 30-80 Hz |
| Small stand-mount/ bookshelf speaker | 40-100 Hz |
| Small satellite speaker | 80-120 Hz |
To improve the integration further, including optimizing the phase alignment, please see the Monitor Audio Guide to Tuning Subwoofers.
On-screen menu
Using the encoder and screen on the Anthra amplifier panel you can adjust the volume, low pass filter and select EQ presets. You can also check for firmware updates if the subwoofer is connected to the network.
See the opposite page for the menu structure.
Volume
A stepped volume control ranging from -40 – 20 dB.
EQ Presets
Here you can select from a list of three predefined Monitor Audio presets
(Music, Movie, Impact) designed by our audio experts, or three custom presets.
These can be created and saved to the subwoofer using the MaestroUnite app.
Low Pass Filter
By default, the Low Pass Filter is disabled, for use with a filtered signal
from an AV receiver or amplifier. If your connection is from a full-range
source, for example, a stereo amplifier, you should enable the Low Pass Filter
to allow only the bass frequencies to be played. Adjustable between 40-200 Hz.
Service
If your Anthra subwoofer is connected to a network (see MaestroUnite on page
12) you can check here for firmware updates. You can also put the subwoofer on
standby manually.
MaestroUnite app
Download the MaestroUnite app from the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple Store (iOS). In the MaestroUnite app, you can control/select all functions available in the on-screen menu described previously and additional settings such as Auto-On, Phase, Custom EQ, LED Brightness, and more.
Creating a System & Connecting to a Network
To create a system, open the MaestroUnite app and press the ‘+’ icon in the
top right to set up a new system as highlighted in the image below.
You will first be asked to choose a name for the system, then follow the on
screen prompts to connect to your Anthra Subwoofer and enter the Wi-Fi
credentials for your network.
Anthra Subwoofers are listed with their serial number for ease of
identification when using multiple subwoofers. Once connected your Anthra
Subwoofer will be displayed as a system on the home page of MaestroUnite.
Creating a Custom EQ Preset
One of the many customisable features of Anthra is that you can create your
own Custom EQ Presets. To do this open MaestroUnite and tap on the Anthra
Subwoofer system you have created, this will open the “Device Information”.
Scroll down to “Sound” and tap on the “EQ Presets” option.
-
To create your own Custom EQ Preset select the Preset you wish to edit (Custom 1, 2, 3).
Note: If a Low Pass Filter has been previously set, this will be applied to all presets including custom presets. -
Below the EQ graph is an 8-band Parametric EQ, of which each filter can be individually selected and switched On/ Off. When enabled you can set the Filter Type, Frequency, Gain and Q Factor. Definitions for each setting are given within MaestroUnite.
-
Settings will be saved and applied to the subwoofer automatically. Tap “Reset This Filter” to clear any changes made.
Factory reset
Should the need arise to carry out a factory reset on your Anthra Subwoofer simply hold down the Factory Reset button on the back of the amplifier panel for approximately 5 seconds whilst the subwoofer is switched On. The amplifier panel screen will display “Factory Reset in Progress” before entering standby mode.
NOTE : All Wi-Fi details will be erased as well as any other settings and customization.
Care & maintenance
Upkeep of cabinets
- The finish of the cabinet can be maintained by regular dusting using a soft or microfibre cloth. The drive units should only be cleaned with a damp cloth if more than normal dusting is required.
- Be careful not to damage the driver units whilst cleaning.
- Never use solvents or aggressive cleaning/polishing agents on your Anthra Subwoofer. When in doubt, test the cleaning product on an inconspicuous area on the cabinet, and let it sit for several days before committing to its use on visible portions of the cabinet.
Warranty
In the unlikely event that there is a defect with this product, it is covered
by the Monitor Audio manufacturer’s warranty, provided that the product was
supplied by an authorized Monitor Audio retail specialist.
For the period of cover please refer to the product page on our website at
monitoraudio.com
Register your Anthra Subwoofer: to ensure the best possible product and
customer support
Register your speakers using the QR code or visit
monitoraudio.com/registration
Specifications
| Anthra 10| Anthra 12| Anthra 15
---|---|---|---
System Format| Active – Sealed Cabinet
Drive unit Complement
| 1 x 10” (254 mm) High Linear- Excursion Triple Suspension Driver| 1 x 12”
(305 mm) High Linear- Excursion Triple Suspension Driver| 1 x 15” (381 mm)
High Linear- Excursion Triple Suspension Driver
Amplifier Classification| High-Efficiency Class-D
Lower Frequency Limit| -6 dB @ 17 Hz| -6 dB @ 16 Hz| -6 dB @ 16 Hz
Upper Frequency Limit| (LPF Off) -6 dB @400 Hz
Driver Excursion (pk-pk)| 50 mm (1 15/16”)
DSP| 28 Bit 50 MIPS Configurable through MaestroUnite app
Analogue Digital Conversion
| Auto ranging Input which combines a 10 Vrms maximum input with low signal to
noise for small signals
Amplifier Output Power, 240 VAC| Instantaneous: 500 W* Continuous short-term:
425 W| Instantaneous: 1700 W* Continuous short-term: 900 W*| Instantaneous:
2500 W Continuous short-term: 1400 W
Amplifier Output Power, 120 VAC| Instantaneous: 450 W Continuous short-term:
390 W| Instantaneous: 1325 W Continuous short-term: 700 W| Instantaneous: 2500
W Continuous short-term: 1400 W
LED UI Control| Brightness, On-Off
Phase Control| 0-360 Degrees measured at LPF Crossover
Low Pass Filter| 20-200 Hz LPF with Rolloff Adjustable from -3 to -48 dB/Oct
Custom EQ
| Configurable through MaestroUnite;
3 pre-defined EQ curves plus 3 custom EQ curves each with 8 band custom EQ supporting Peaking, High Shelf, Low Shelf and High Pass.
Volume Level| Wide adjustable input gain to allow maximum output from a wide
range of input signals
Inputs| Stereo Unbalanced RCA Mono/LFE Balanced XLR
Outputs| Stereo unbalanced outputs with unbuffered throughput from RCA Inputs
Mono/LFE Balanced XLR outputs with unbuffered throughput from XLR Input
Mains Input Voltage| Universal Mains, 85-265 VAC
External Dimensions Without feet (H x W x D)| 321 x 321 x 321 mm
(12 5/8 x 12 5/8 x 12 5/8 “)
| 374 x 374 x 374 mm
(14 3/4 x 14 3/4 x 14 3/4“)
| 439 x 439 x 439 mm
(17 5/16 x 17 5/16 x 17 5/16”)
Weight
|
22.2 kg (48 lb 15 oz)
|
32.4 kg (71 lb 7 oz)
|
40.3 kg (88 lb 14 oz)
Power consumption| 120 W| 200 W| 550 W
Cabinet Construction| Braced 18 mm thick MDF with 36 mm front baffle| Braced
25 mm thick MDF with 36 mm front baffle
Grille| Cloth-covered magnetically attached grilles
FAQ
- Q: How do I register my Anthra Subwoofer?
- A: You can register your speakers using the QR code provided or by visiting monitoraudio.com/registration for product and customer support.
- Q: What should I do if my subwoofer is not level?
- A: If your subwoofer is not level, adjust it by unscrewing the main threaded assembly at the lowest point until it is fully level. Use the locking nut on the foot to fix it in place.
- Q: How do I perform a factory reset on the Anthrasubwoofer?
- A: With the subwoofer switched on, press and hold the factory reset button for 5 seconds. Use a thin or pointed object to access the button.
Contact
Monitor Audio Ltd.
- Address: 24 Brook Road Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7XJ England
- Tel: +44 (0)1268 740580
- Email: info@monitoraudio.group
- monitoraudio.com
©Monitor Audio Ltd. | V1-2023 – Anthra