Equipment required, Instructions | Mordaunt-Short 500 Series THX

SUBWOOFER TUNING FOR OPTIMUM SOUND QUALITY

Your MS500 system incorporates subwoofers built into the left and right front speakers to generate substantial amounts of low-frequency energy for a satisfying bass response. In addition the M500 system has been designed to give a substantially flat frequency response.

However, the dimensions of some rooms and the positioning and nature of furniture can cause the bass response to be uneven. Typically rooms with this problem exhibit a ‘room mode’ where the room dimensions cause reinforcement of a narrow band of frequencies. This leads to a slightly ‘boomy’ sound where a small band of frequencies appear louder than normal.

If you experience this problem, we advise that you first experiment with speaker placement. Begin by adjusting the distance between the speakers and the distance from the speakers to the back wall etc. until a satisfactory response is obtained. Remember to always use your ears as the ultimate guide. Remember what sounds right to you, IS the optimum solution regardless of measurements etc. that you may take.

If speaker placement alone is insufficient to solve these problems we have incorporated a sophisticated notch filter that allows you to attenuate a small range of frequencies for a more even, flatter bass. See instructions below:

Equipment required

•EQ Test CD (supplied) containing eight test tones that will highlight any low frequency ‘room mode’ resonances.

•Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter (not supplied): This gives an accurate measure of the volume level of the tones emitted from the test CD. SPL meters are available from Radio Shack (US), Maplin (UK) and all good electrical shops. If you are unable to locate one ask your dealer for advice.

Instructions

1.Start by placing your loudspeakers in their intended locations (positioning is discussed on page 5), ensuring that the notch filter is set to the OFF position on both units.

2.Set the levels of the whole speaker system as required for optimum response (fixed in THX mode).

3.Sitting in the listening position (as per fig.5) set the SPL meter range to 75 dB, it’s weighting to C, and set the response to slow if it has a slow/ fast response setting.

4.The supplied test CD includes eight tracks, each one a specially recorded tone at 1/6 octave spacing (in addition, each tone corresponds to a value on the supplied table).

5.Play each track on the CD in turn. Sitting in the listening position and using the table provided, record the reading shown on your SPL meter for each track played on the table provided. Should any one frequency be 6dB-12dB above the average of the others, then use of the Notch filter may be beneficial. Proceed as follows.

6.Go to the rear of each MS502 and switch the notch filter to its –6dB setting and adjust the notch filter frequency knob to the approximate frequency of the highest reading taken as above. Always adjust both notch filters (one for each speaker) together in tandem.

7.Play the test CD again and record a second set of SPL readings in the table to verify the improved flatness of response.

8.Repeat steps 5 and 6 until a satisfactory fairly flat response is obtained.

500 Series THX specifications

Mordaunt-Short has made a significant impact in the audio industry, and their 500 Series THX speakers showcase their commitment to high-fidelity sound reproduction. Designed for both home theater and critical listening applications, this speaker series embodies exceptional audio performance, blending advanced engineering with aesthetic appeal.

One of the standout features of the 500 Series THX is its compliance with the rigorous THX certification, which ensures that the speakers meet high standards of performance and reliability. This certification guarantees a precise and immersive sound experience, making it ideal for movie enthusiasts and music lovers alike. The series is engineered to deliver accurate sound reproduction across a wide frequency range, providing a full cinematic experience.

The speaker lineup in the 500 Series includes floor-standing speakers, bookshelf options, a central speaker, and subwoofers, allowing for flexible configurations to suit various room sizes and preferences. Each speaker is meticulously designed with a sophisticated cabinet construction that minimizes resonance and distortion, ensuring clarity in every note and dialogue.

At the heart of the 500 Series THX technology is Mordaunt-Short’s proprietary driver technology. The series utilizes advanced cone materials and phase plugs to achieve a more stable sound reproduction and improved transient response. These drivers are complemented by high-quality tweeters that provide extended high-frequency response, allowing listeners to experience the full tonal spectrum.

Additionally, the speakers feature custom-designed crossovers, which play a crucial role in directing the appropriate frequencies to each driver. This precise engineering results in a seamless integration of sound across the spectrum, ensuring that every element in a soundtrack or music track is rendered beautifully.

The aesthetic appeal of the 500 Series THX cannot be overlooked. The speakers feature a sleek and modern design that fits well into any contemporary home environment. They are available in various finishes, allowing users to choose an option that complements their décor.

Overall, the Mordaunt-Short 500 Series THX speakers provide a remarkable audio experience, boasting advanced technologies, meticulous craftsmanship, and an emphasis on delivering sound fidelity. Whether for an immersive cinema experience or as part of a high-end stereo setup, these speakers stand as a testament to Mordaunt-Short’s dedication to quality and innovation in sound reproduction.