Avalon Acoustics Sentinel manual Active Reference System

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1.3 The Active Reference System

A definitive transducer project of this magnitude demands the holistic integration of diverse design goals, including perfect phase response, critical damping, and point source accuracy. In addition, horizontal dispersion must be uniform across the frequency spectrum in order to generate a coherently focused wavefront and minimize room interaction artifacts. The difficulty of integrating all of these elements increases exponentially as the size of the array grows larger. It is only through complex computer modeling, meticulous physical and electrical alignment, and scores of hours of dedicated listening that correct phase response, without restricting the frequency response, has been achieved. The result is a transducer that is extremely revealing of microphone placement and phasing techniques from the recording site. The most subtle ambient information is clearly apparent. There is no exaggeration of details over fundamental elements of the recording; context is always clearly maintained.

These qualities are most apparent when using the Sentinel Active Reference System as an evaluation tool. Amplifiers, for example, that were previously thought to have similar sonic characteristics are now definitively separated by their individual signatures. The system's smooth non-reactive impedance response insures that the sound of an amplifier is not due to an interactive effect, but is a true representation of its sonic fingerprint. By ameliorating many of the technical shortcomings of all previous transducers, the music lover moves closer to the performance and the intent of the artist. Similarly, the critical evaluator now has a transparent window through which the differences between the elements under test (e.g. amplifiers, cartridges, etc.) can be clearly discerned.

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Contents Musical Masterpieces Page Table of Contents Introduction Listening Position Introduction OverviewLow Noise Floor Coherent Energy Transfer Active Reference System Introduction ContentsUnpacking Instructions Room Preparation and Verification Crate and Box Placement for Unpacking Room set-up for unpackingOpening the Crates To unpack the crossover cabinetsTo unpack the upper speaker cabinets Opening the Sub Amplifier Crates Removing Apex‘ Couplers from Set-up Blocks System Set-upPreparation Left / Right Channel Matching Installation of Apex‘ couplers Lower Speaker Cabinet Set-upUpper Speaker Cabinet Set-up Page Page Proper placement of crossover cabinet behind speaker Crossover Cabinet Set-upFelt Anti-Diffraction Mask Orientation of the upper Felt MaskSub Amplifier Set-up Wiring Instructions Do not over-tighten the screwsWiring and Field Interactions Inductive field effectsConnecting Upper Speaker Cabinet to Crossover Do not over-tighten the binding postsConnecting Speaker Cable to the Crossover Connect Speaker Cable to your Amplifier Connecting Subwoofer to the Sub Amplifier Two outputs at the preamplifier Connecting Preamplifier to the AmplifiersInterconnect Y-cable at the preamplifier Break-in Period Room Compensation Subwoofer AmplifierDesign Principle Master Felt Anti-diffraction Masks Maximizing PerformanceSeparate Left / Right Amplifiers Apex‘ Couplers Room Treatment and System / Listener PositionToe-In First Reflection Points Corner TreatmentCare of Your Avalon Loudspeakers CabinetCrossover Cabinet DriversWarranty Event of a ProblemWarranty Statement Page Room Acoustics / Speaker Position An Optical Analogy Basic Room AcousticsStanding Waves Flutter Echo Early Reflections Avoiding Early Reflections Angle Angle Y Reflected Sound Direct Sound Low Frequency Reflections Bass reinforcement 100 200 500 Page Summary of Recommendations Flutter Echo and Standing WavesSpeaker Placement Early ReflectionsListening Room Example Time Alignment Listening PositionPath Length Symmetry Summary Accuracy of Bass Reproduction Sensitivity to Time-Related Information Fast BassMeasurements of Audio Equipment Correlation with Amplifier MeasurementsLoudspeaker Measurements Designing for Accurate Bass Reproduction Listening for Size Distortions Listening QualitiesFrequency Response Effects Transient Response Effects Active Control of Bass Energy Active Subwoofer SystemAnechoic Frequency Response vs. In-Room Frequency Response Features Subwoofer Amplifier SpecificationsLoudspeaker

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.
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