System Setup, Bass Management | Atlantic Technology FS-3200 guide

System Setup

Instruction Manual

System Setup

Bass Management

Some older surround sound decoders and receivers offer a choice of “Nor- mal” or “Wide-band” modes for the center channel speaker. The 3200 LR and C speakers are designed to be used in the Normal mode.

Modern digital processing multi-channel systems provide a Bass Manage- ment menu,which typically requires you to select between“Small” or“Large” speakers during system set-up.Since these speakers have been designed to work with a dedicated subwoofer, please set all the speakers to Small.

Many of the newer surround receivers and processors give you a choice of subwoofer-to-satellite crossover frequency. If yours does, we recom- mend that you start with a setting of around 80Hz for the smoothest blend between the subwoofer and the 3200 speakers.

Figure 8

Operation of Rear Panel Controls on the FS-3200s

High Frequency Energy This control changes the

tilt or rolloff slope of the tweeter in order to com-

pensate for varying room acoustics.Use the Aver-

age position for rooms with a reasonably balanced

combination of hard reﬂective surfaces (sliding

glass doors and bare walls) and soft absorptive surfaces (thick carpeted ﬂoors and overstuffed furniture).The Reverberant position is meant for rooms with an abundance

of hard surfaces,while the Damped Room setting raises the tweeter’s output to counteract the effect of an overly absorptive, acoustically“dead” room.

Boundary Compensation Putting this switch to the

“On” position adjusts the lower frequency output to compensate for the typical sound colorations caused by placing the speaker very close to a large surface,

such as a TV screen, a wall, or on a shelf in an enter- tainment unit.If your FS-3200 speakers are mounted as described above,you may prefer their sound when

the Boundary Compensation control is engaged.Conversely,if they are free- standing,away from large surfaces (such as when the 3200 LR speakers are used with their optional ﬂoorstands), you may prefer the sound with the position in the“Normal” position.

NOTE: In all cases, we recommend you try both switches in their vari- ous positions and use the settings that sound best in your particular room. Note that the settings of the Left, Center, and Right speakers may differ from each other.

Dipole/Bipole Operation of the 2200 SR Speakers

In Dipole mode the 2200 SR’s produce ambience with minimal localization (best for most movies and video soundtracks), and more localizable sound in the Bipole

mode (preferred for some music recordings). Switching between Dipole and Bipole mode is easily accomplished using a toggle switch conveniently located in the speakers rear terminal cup.Please note that the vast majority of the time in movies and TV broadcasts the surround speakers are called upon to reproduce the environmental sounds that are used as cues to help get you immersed in the scene on the screen. Once the surround speakers are properly positioned in the listening area,we recommend that you begin with the dipole mode,as this usually delivers the most involving and believ- able surround performance in most situations.However,as noted above,feel free to experiment with both switch positions.

Setting Levels

When setting up a complete home theater we strongly recommend that you use a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter. As of this writing Radio Shack® has one that’s affordably priced (approximately $40-$60) that can be used effectively.To use this meter,turn on your system,put the processor/receiver in Test Mode and set its main volume control somewhere between -20 dB and 0dB (or a reasonably loud level in your listening room). Sit in the prime listening position,set the SPL meter to the 70dB scale,slow response, and C weighting. Hold the meter with the microphone pointed up towards the ceiling and in front of you. Cycle the test tone from speaker to speaker, setting each to the same level (usually75dB) using the individual level set- tings available in the processor/receiver (please see the instructions for your processor/receiver if you are unsure of how to access the test signal or level controls).

IMPORTANT NOTE: The power recommendation for these speaker systems assumes that you will not operate your ampliﬁer/receiver in a way that produces distortion. Even rugged speakers like these can be damaged by an ampliﬁer driven into audible distortion. The harsh ampliﬁer distortion (“clipping”) that occurs in this situation will even- tually cause damage to the speaker system. This type of damage may be cumulative and can build up over time, as the ampliﬁer is driven into overload again and again. Such damage is easily identiﬁable through examination of the damaged speaker’s voice coil and is not covered by the warranty.

These systems will play very loudly when provided with enough undistorted power to do so. If necessary, consult your dealer or Atlantic Technology for additional information.

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FS-3200 specifications

The Atlantic Technology FS-3200 is a remarkable floor-standing speaker that exemplifies the brand’s commitment to high-quality audio performance. Designed for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike, this speaker blends advanced engineering with sophisticated aesthetics. The FS-3200 is engineered to deliver an immersive listening experience, making it an apt choice for both music and film playback.

One of the standout features of the FS-3200 is its innovative driver configuration. The speaker is equipped with dual 6.5-inch woven composite woofers that provide deep, powerful bass response while maintaining clarity. These woofers are designed to minimize distortion, ensuring that the sound remains true to the original recording. Complementing the woofers is a 1-inch soft dome tweeter that excels in reproducing high frequencies, resulting in an expansive soundstage that envelops listeners in rich detail.

Another defining characteristic of the FS-3200 is its high-quality cabinet construction. The speaker features a robust enclosure designed to reduce unwanted resonance and vibration, a common enemy of clear sound. The cabinet is meticulously crafted from MDF with a premium finish, not only enhancing its durability but also ensuring it fits seamlessly into any home environment.

The FS-3200 also incorporates advanced technologies that enhance its audio performance. One notable feature is its sophisticated crossover network, meticulously designed to manage the frequency distribution between the woofers and tweeter. This technology ensures that every element of the audio spectrum is reproduced accurately, providing a balanced and coherent sound experience.

For added versatility, the FS-3200 is compatible with various home theater setups. Whether used as part of a stereo system or integrated into a multi-channel surround sound configuration, it adapts effortlessly to different audio environments. The speakers are incredibly efficient, allowing them to work well with a range of amplifiers and receivers, ensuring that listeners can achieve an optimal listening experience without requiring excessive power.

In conclusion, the Atlantic Technology FS-3200 is a stellar choice for anyone seeking premium audio performance from a floor-standing speaker. With its exceptional driver technology, sturdy cabinet design, and advanced crossover network, it delivers rich, immersive sound that enhances music and film alike. For those looking to elevate their home audio experience, the FS-3200 stands out as a reliable and high-fidelity option.