Introduction, Box Contents | Sonance SM55 SST instruction

I N S T R U C T I O N M A N U A L

S M 5 5 A N D S S U R F A C E - M O U N T

M 5 5 S S T S P E A K E R S

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing Sonance Surface-Mount Speakers. When properly installed your new speakers will give you years of entertainment pleasure. This manual covers the SM55 and SM55SST (Single-Stereo Technology®) speakers.

Box Contents

Item	Quantity (SM55)	Quantity (SM55SST)
Surface Mount Speaker	2	1
Paintable Grille	2	1
Speaker Terminal Screws	4	4

Speaker Placement

Distributed Audio (SM55 and SM55SST)

The SM55 and SM55SST’s low installation profile makes them ideal for use in distributed audio systems. They provide coverage of a very wide listener area, allowing the them to be mounted in a wide variety of installation locations.

Because a single SM55SST speaker reproduces both stereo channels from a single location, it will deliver outstanding performance from a wide variety of mounting locations where a pair of stereo speakers would be impractical, including hallways, bathrooms and closets.

The table and illustration below show how far apart the speakers can be placed at various ceiling heights while still providing good coverage for all listeners.

Ceiling Height	Spacing (Standing)	Spacing (Seated)
9-Foot Ceiling	5’7”	9’5”
10-Foot Ceiling	9’7”	13’5”
12-Foot Ceiling	13’7”	17’5”
14-Foot Ceiling	17.7’	21.5’

SPEAKER

SPACING

COVERAGE	COVERAGE
AREA	AREA
FIGURE 1: DISTRIBUTED AUDIO COVERAGE AREA

Surround Channel (SM55)

The SM55’s low-profile design and wide area coverage also make it an excellent choice for surround channel applications in home theater systems.

5.1-Channel System (see Figure 2)

•Locate the left and right surround speakers on the ceiling between 2 feet and 6 feet behind the listening position. The speakers should be between 6 feet and 10 feet apart.

Left & Right

Surround

Speakers

TV		6' – 10'
TV		Apart

	2' – 6'

FIGURE 2: 5.1-CHANNEL SURROUND CHANNEL SPEAKER PLACEMENT

7.1-Channel System (see Figure 3)

•Left & Right Surround Speakers: Place the left and right surround speakers directly to the sides of the listening position, between 6 feet and 10 feet apart.

•Surround Back Speakers: Place the surround back speakers between 2 feet and 6 feet behind the listening position. The surround back speakers should be closer together than the left and right surround speakers — between 3 feet and 6 feet apart.

Left & Right

Surround Speakers

Surround

Back

Speakers

TV		3' – 6'
TV		Apart
2' –	6'
2' –	6'

FIGURE 3: 7.1-CHANNEL SURROUND CHANNEL SPEAKER PLACEMENT

Before Installation

1.Determine the location for the speaker (see Speaker Placement).

2.The SM55 and SM55SST Mounting Plates (available separately) are designed to install onto a J-box (single or double) that has already been mounted in the ceiling.

SM55, SM55 SST specifications

The Sonance SM55 and SM55 SST are high-performance architectural speakers designed to blend seamlessly into any environment while delivering exceptional sound quality. These models are particularly favored in both residential and commercial installations, where aesthetics and acoustics are paramount.

One of the standout features of the SM55 is its robust design, which includes a pivoting 1-inch soft-dome tweeter that allows for precise sound dispersion. This feature enables the speaker to deliver crisp and clear high frequencies, ensuring that every note in music or dialogue in film is rendered with excellence. The tweeter's pivot allows for greater flexibility in placement, making it easier to direct sound toward the listening area.

The SM55 series is equipped with a 5.5-inch polypropylene cone woofer. This woofer provides a rich and detailed mid-bass response essential for a full-bodied audio experience. The materials used in the construction of the woofer also contribute to reduced distortion, ensuring that the sound remains clean even at higher volume levels.

Additionally, the SM55 and SM55 SST incorporate Sonance's proprietary technologies aimed at optimizing performance. The speaker features a dual voice coil design that enhances its ability to handle higher power levels, making them suitable for both casual listening and more intensive audio experiences. Moreover, the SST version comes with a high-output transformer, allowing for easy integration into distributed audio systems. This transformer supports both 70V and 100V installations, making the SM55 SST ideal for commercial settings where long runs of speaker wire are necessary.

Installation of the SM55 series is made easy with a simple, low-profile design that includes a magnetic grille. The grille can be painted to match any interior decor, making it a versatile option for a variety of applications. The speaker's low-profile appearance ensures that it does not detract from the design of the room, providing a visually appealing audio solution.

In summary, the Sonance SM55 and SM55 SST speakers combine state-of-the-art technologies with user-friendly features to create an exceptional listening experience. Their rich sound profile, ease of integration, and aesthetic adaptability make them a prime choice for anyone seeking high-quality architectural speakers. Whether in a home theater or a commercial space, the SM55 series is engineered to meet and exceed the expectations of both audio enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.