Avalon Acoustics Sentinel manual Listening Position, Path Length Symmetry, Time Alignment

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11 Listening Position

Just as loudspeaker positioning and room treatment can address the issues of standing waves, flutter echo, reflections, and bass reinforcement, careful attention to listening position is crucial to achieving accurate sound stage placement, tonal balance, harmonic structure, focus, and image size. In order to fully benefit from the Sentinel Active Reference System's outstanding resolving potential, one must consider the three dimensional location of the listening position in relation to the system and room.

Path Length Symmetry

In the previous chapter, it is recommended to maintain left/right symmetry in the listening room to preserve a balanced acoustic "space." Similarly, if the listening position is severely off to one side, there will be a significant difference in the path length of sound emanating from the loudspeakers. The resulting time differential will disturb the overall left/right balance and cause a phase shift in the information coming from one channel relative to the other channel. Depending on the frequencies involved, some sounds will arrive at the listener's ear to some degree out of phase and cause cancellations or drop-outs in the frequency spectrum. Therefore, it is important to maintain a listening position that is reasonably symmetric to the room and centered between the loudspeakers.

Time Alignment

The front planes of the Sentinel Active Reference System have been carefully sculpted to establish accurate driver time alignment. In Figure 10.1, notice that the acoustic centers of the drivers are situated so that the wave front converges precisely at the listener's ear. In order to achieve this convergence, it is recommended to place the listener in a comfortable chair or sofa with the listener's ear about 110 cm above the floor and a minimum of two, and preferably three meters or more from the system.

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Contents Musical Masterpieces Page Table of Contents Introduction Listening Position Overview IntroductionLow Noise Floor Coherent Energy Transfer Active Reference System Unpacking Instructions ContentsIntroduction Room Preparation and Verification Room set-up for unpacking Crate and Box Placement for UnpackingTo unpack the crossover cabinets Opening the CratesTo unpack the upper speaker cabinets Opening the Sub Amplifier Crates Preparation System Set-upRemoving Apex‘ Couplers from Set-up Blocks Left / Right Channel Matching Lower Speaker Cabinet Set-up Installation of Apex‘ couplersUpper Speaker Cabinet Set-up Page Page Crossover Cabinet Set-up Proper placement of crossover cabinet behind speakerOrientation of the upper Felt Mask Felt Anti-Diffraction MaskSub Amplifier Set-up Do not over-tighten the screws Wiring InstructionsInductive field effects Wiring and Field InteractionsDo not over-tighten the binding posts Connecting Upper Speaker Cabinet to CrossoverConnecting Speaker Cable to the Crossover Connect Speaker Cable to your Amplifier Connecting Subwoofer to the Sub Amplifier Interconnect Y-cable at the preamplifier Connecting Preamplifier to the AmplifiersTwo outputs at the preamplifier Break-in Period Design Principle Subwoofer AmplifierRoom Compensation Master Separate Left / Right Amplifiers Maximizing PerformanceFelt Anti-diffraction Masks Toe-In Room Treatment and System / Listener PositionApex‘ Couplers Corner Treatment First Reflection PointsDrivers Care of Your Avalon LoudspeakersCabinet Crossover CabinetEvent of a Problem WarrantyWarranty Statement Page Room Acoustics / Speaker Position Basic Room Acoustics An Optical AnalogyStanding Waves Flutter Echo Early Reflections Avoiding Early Reflections Angle Angle Y Reflected Sound Direct Sound Low Frequency Reflections Bass reinforcement 100 200 500 Page Flutter Echo and Standing Waves Summary of RecommendationsEarly Reflections Speaker PlacementListening Room Example Path Length Symmetry Listening PositionTime Alignment Summary Accuracy of Bass Reproduction Fast Bass Sensitivity to Time-Related InformationCorrelation with Amplifier Measurements Measurements of Audio EquipmentLoudspeaker Measurements Designing for Accurate Bass Reproduction Frequency Response Effects Listening QualitiesListening for Size Distortions Transient Response Effects Anechoic Frequency Response vs. In-Room Frequency Response Active Subwoofer SystemActive Control of Bass Energy Features Loudspeaker SpecificationsSubwoofer Amplifier

Sentinel specifications

Avalon Acoustics Sentinel represents a pinnacle in high-fidelity loudspeakers, designed for audiophiles who demand exceptional sound quality and elegant design. Known for their commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative technology, Avalon Acoustics continues to push the boundaries of acoustic performance with the Sentinel model.

One of the standout features of the Sentinel is its unique three-way design. This configuration allows for precise sound reproduction across the entire audio spectrum, delivering rich bass, articulate midrange, and sparkling highs. The speaker utilizes proprietary drivers that have been engineered to minimize distortion while maximizing dynamic range and sensitivity. This ensures that every note is rendered with clarity and precision, making it ideal for any listening environment.

The cabinet design of the Sentinel is another aspect that underscores Avalon's commitment to excellence. Constructed from carefully selected hardwoods and finished to perfection, the enclosure not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also plays a critical role in acoustic performance. Its solid build effectively reduces resonance and undesirable vibrations, allowing the drivers to perform at their best.

In terms of technology, the Sentinel incorporates advanced crossover networks. These networks are designed to ensure seamless transition between drivers, providing a cohesive soundstage. By using high-quality components, the crossover systems significantly improve the overall performance, ensuring that listeners enjoy a balanced and natural tonal quality.

Moreover, the Sentinel features adjustable bass ports, allowing users to tailor the speaker's performance to fit their specific room acoustics. This flexibility helps to optimize the listening experience, regardless of the environment. The speakers also include easy-to-use bi-wiring and bi-amping capabilities, enabling audiophiles to customize their setup for optimal sound quality.

Finally, the visual appeal of Avalon Acoustics Sentinel cannot be understated. With its sleek lines and contemporary design, it is a statement piece that complements any décor. Available in various finishes, the Sentinel seamlessly blends performance with style, catering to both auditory and aesthetic sensibilities.

In summary, Avalon Acoustics Sentinel stands out as an exceptional loudspeaker that combines advanced technology, exquisite craftsmanship, and customizable features. Its three-way design, high-quality drivers, and adjustable features make it a top contender for those seeking unparalleled sound quality in a luxurious package.