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9.5 Powered Loudspeakers
9.5.1 External Processing
Powered loudspeakers have built-in, factory set, signal processing. The settings were
determined to provide the maximum performance in terms of frequency response, phase
response, power handling, and audio quality. In some cases, acoustical conditions,
program material, or personal taste may require additional equalization or signal
processing, such as signal delay. In such cases, use external analog or digital equalizers or
other signal processing. Avoid radical or extreme equalizer settings.
9.5.2 Limiters
Powered loudspeakers have built-in, factory set limiting. The limiter characteristics and
settings were determined to provide the maximum protection possible, to minimize the
sonic effects, and to integrate closely with the amplifier capabilities. Defeating such
limiting and/or using an external limiter could expose the drivers or amplifiers to
operation beyond their limits.
External limiting should only be used to limit the maximum output to some level below
that allowed by the factory limiting. In this case, choose limiter settings that minimize
the sonic effects when the limiting is active.
Section 10 Operating the Loudspeaker
10.1 Operating Limits
10.1.1 Operator Responsibility - Preventing Damage
It is the responsibility of the audio system operator to operate the loudspeaker within its
limits and capabilities. This is the only way to ensure that the loudspeaker is not stressed
beyond its limits to the point of damage or failure.
10.1.2 Loudspeaker Limits - Preventing Damage
Operation beyond the loudspeaker's capabilities usually includes, but is not limited to,
one or more of the following conditions:
1. Amplifier clipping
2. Voltage input in excess of the specified rms voltage limit
3. Peak voltage input in excess of twice the specified voltage limit
4. Noticeable distortion
5. Mechanical noise (such as a cone bottoming out)
6. A suitable means for determining these conditions is highly recommended. At a
minimum, the operator should have a meter display calibrated to indicate when the
loudspeaker's maximum rms voltage limits will be exceeded. This assumes
amplifiers are not being driven into clipping at these limits.
10.2 Acoustic Level Precautions
CAUTION: If exposure to levels higher than 100 dB will be prolonged, wear earplugs in
the ear canals or ear protectors over the ears.
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